October 11, 2007 by UTRGV Student Media

Thursday October 11, 2007

58th Year No. 7

LEGISLATIVE

New state law limits dropped classes By BOBBY CERVANTES The Pan American With the fall semester in full swing, most college students across the nation have already adapted to a new schedule of classes and set of teachers. But for those at more than 100 public universities and colleges in Texas, a recently passed bill by the state Legislature adds another important new aspect with which students must become familiar. Senate Bill 1231, passed by both houses of the Legislature without opposition, went into effect immediately after Gov. Rick Perry signed the bill June 16. The new law restricts students from withdrawing from more than six courses throughout their college career. Any additional courses dropped after the six-course cap will remain permanently recorded on a student’s transcript. In addition, the student is required to pay for the course in full and accept an ‘F’ grade. Congressman Fred Brown, R-Brazos County, authored the portion of SB 1231 dealing with the six-

hour cap. According to MeLissa Nicholas, Brown’s chief of staff, Brown said that the bill would aid the average taxpayer as well as everyone in higher education. “This bill saves taxpayers money and decreases the amount of time to graduation, by making the right classes available to students who are serious and committed,” she said. “It also saves the schools from the problems of incurring so many refunds.” This new mandate directly affects any university or college in Texas receiving state funds. At The University of Texas-Pan American, officials are slowly trying to piece together what the change means.

Dennis McMillan, associate vice president for enrollment and student services at UTPA, said it is still unclear as to how, specifically, The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will implement SB 1231. Still, he assured that the law will not affect sophomores, juniors or seniors. “THECB will be finalizing the rules for implementing this law within the next few weeks,” he said. “We do know that there are some provisions for exceptions due to illness, death in the family, call to military service or other reasons that can be justified. “ McMillan said that the law reinforces the necessity of students communicating with their academic advisors.

“We believe that students should take seriously the selection of their major and, subsequently, the selection of courses to meet degree requirements,” he said. “We provide advisers to assist in this process and we encourage students to take full advantage of these services.” When the THECB meets in Austin later this month, McMillan will sit on an advisory committee charged with assisting in development of the new rules. “One unanswered question about this new law deals with transfers from out-of-state or private schools,” he said. “We do not know if drops from these institutions will count against the student.” Some students at UTPA, like

See LAW page 11

CAMPUS

Russian pol addresses big crowd Tuesday By ANA LEY The Pan American About 1,200 persons packed into the Fine Arts Auditorium at The University of Texas-Pan American Tuesday to watch a presentation by Mikhail Gorbachev, the Russian politician who served as the last leader of the Soviet Union before its collapse in 1991. Gorbachev, the first speaker to present for the Distinguished Speaker Series this semester, is best known for creating reform to end the Cold War with the United States, and for streamlining and decentralizing the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. He is also popular for coining the terms perestroika (governmental restructuring) and glasnost (political openness). “Not only is he a Nobel Peace Prize winner, he is also probably the most historically significant figure we have had on campus,” said John Bokina, a political science professor who specializes in Soviet politics. During his speech, Gorbachev reflected on his time in politics, remembering speeches he delivered to community members about the corruption of Stalin’s regime. “I remember after the death of Stalin, life in Russia was in flux,” he said. “I had many political discussions

THIS WEEK

See GORBACHEV page 11

INFRASTRUCTURE

NEWS State rep. hopeful speaks on election hopes, arrest See Page 3

A&E Anime lovers descend upon SPI for convention See Page 8 and 9

SPORTS Lady Broncs dominate at first home game of season See Page 16

SBS reconstruction yields other plans Fallen wall repair continues to cause hassle By JULIET PEREZ The Pan American For the past two months, students with classes in the Social and Behavioral Sciences Building have had to walk around construction sites to get inside, and officials at The University of Texas-

Pan American say students should expect no end to the hassle any time soon. In the SBS building, the Aug. 1 collapse of two small north walls sent crews into emergency reconstruction mode. The construction job, strictly for safety enhancements, will not lead to any aesthetic modifications of the building, said Marvin Boland, architect director of UTPA’s Physical Plant. Work is expected to be complete in three months. “In order to make sure [students]

get into the building and out of the building safely, [they] can’t get up close to the building until we finish repairing,” he said. Van Reidhead, dean of the college of Social and Behavioral Sciences, said he was notified immediately when the wall collapsed. “They told me straight in the morning [of Aug. 2] about the fallen wall,” he said. “It really was not a mess, it was very symmetrical. It had just fallen; it was almost like someone had laid it

down.” Boland and eight colleagues did three weeks of tests to figure out why the building began to deteriorate, and plan how to solve the problem. With the assistance of a local engineering firm and the UT System Office of Facilities Planning, the group was able to finish assessing the situation early last month. Boland said some of the brick ties around the bottom of the facility had gathered too much moisture and the

See RECONSTRUCTION page 11

O PINION

Page 2

October 11, 2007

THE PAN AMERICAN

PONDERINGS

Stop humoring instant celebrities BY: JEANETTE PEREZ

hile the media is an important aspect of our every day living and culture, it can be a bit of a pain in the ass. While it gives us news, on the other end of the spectrum it provides us with worthless pieces of information like gossip for entertainment value. But if there’s one thing that I cannot completely understand or even want to comprehend the slightest bit, is why anyone with a Web cam can become an instant celebrity over night. As if it wasn’t already played out by MySpace selfish promotions and instant stardom can be reached by ANYONE who makes a fool of themselves, docu-

ments it video and then proudly, shamelessly airs it to the online community. With the ‘Numa, Numa’ guy, Gary Brolsma dancing, well I wouldn’t refer to his arm movements as dancing, YouTube viewers saw this ridiculous cry for attention from someone we otherwise never would of noticed and because we’re too busy watching videos online instead of getting off our butts and working. He gained so much popularity he was featured on the evening news! Admittedly, even me talking about it is giving this non-deserving being promotion. But how much has culture downgraded that we make icons out of people who are just attention whores and have absolutely no talent whatsoever?

It is because of the lack of intelligence in pop culture that I have grown somewhat of a hatred for the Web. When Chris Crocker came out with his horrific, childish display of sentiment for Britney Spears, that just drew the line. The tranny, mind you the son of a religious family, bawled his eyes out for the media’s bashing of another undeserving real celebrity, Ms. Spears. Crocker was no stranger to posting videos of herself, or himself, whatever he is identified as, he never caught the public’s eye with his acting skills. Oh no, it was his crying show that put it on the top of everyone’s list and apparently landed him a television deal. And for what? Doing absolutely nothing requir-

ing skill. Education and talent are no longer required to fill out the application for rock star status. Maybe I’m the one who’s wrong, wasting my time working for a career. Or maybe we’ve become so apathetic with the real issues that we’ve resorted to make news out of individuals with nothing to offer. The sad thing is, YouTube celebrities will continue to be born every day and as long as the public keeps accepting it, the world will soon be overrun by a bunch of nobodies.

Are you an instant celebrity? Send comments to: fae_myst@yahoo.com

LESSONS FROM LEY

Should media obsess over Ahmadinejad? BY: ANA LEY

s many probably already know, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad visited Columbia University late last month, delivering one of the strangest, most unsettling speeches most of us have ever heard. In case it wasn’t clear before his speech, Ahmadinejad severely misunderstands the United States system, yet he is a rhetorician who seems to buy into his own words. He deviously raises tensions within singled-out groups by prefacing outlandish criticisms with misleading rants on peace and justice. He refused to acknowledge the Holocaust (old news by now, I hear). He claimed that the United States sponsors terrorist groups. And probably the most awkward thing said was that “in Iran, we don’t have homosexuals, like in [America].” Naturally, people were upset. The

October 11, 2007 THE

PANAMERICAN 1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 Phone: (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 www.utpa.edu/dept/panamerican

country was up in arms over it, and the speech probably garnered much attention from even those who don’t keep up with worldly affairs. In fact, I’d be bold enough to say lots are probably just YouTubing the speech for its entertainment/shock value. (Who can blame them? It was scandalous). But his longwinded, aimless responses to critical questions posed to him were far more telling than his dismissal of homosexuals and the Holocaust. He repeatedly evaded a clear answer to whether he seeks the destruction of Israel. He also refused to answer why the Iranian government provided aid to terrorist groups. Now the question arises whether all the media coverage he received was for the good of journalism and public awareness, or whether it was excessive in giving recognition to a man unable to so much as speak coherently for a few hours. On one hand, it was a definite eye-

opener for America and the rest of the world. It really settled some questions about the shoddiness of Iran’s leadership for a lot of people, particularly the college crowd. But what if we’re just boosting this guy’s ego and giving him credibility by inviting him to one of the country’s most recognized universities - especially one so close to Ground Zero? Should America shove a mic in his face and roll the cameras or should it turn the other way and let him fade from significance? My boyfriend recently brought up a damned good point I hadn’t even considered. Iran doesn’t have the same media framework that most Western countries do. I’ve never been, but I’m pretty confident Iranians don’t have a lot of Internet access and they can’t just Google a speech whenever they feel like reassessing their leader. They read newspapers and newsletters which are heavily censored by government.

This potentially puts Ahmadinejad at a great advantage. Who is to say he won’t twist the events at Columbia by only showing the Iranian masses protesting over his visit and Columbia University president Lee Bollinger introducing him as a “cruel dictator?” Who is to say he won’t televise his lofty rhetoric on peace and justice, editing out, say, his evident support for the persecution of all homosexuals? Maybe I’m being too skeptical, but after he delivered such a moronic speech, I don’t think anyone should put it past him. The last thing the United States should do right now is allow bullies like Ahmadinejad to fan the hatred most Iranians already have for Americans.

Editor-in-Chief Sandra Gonzalez................................................. sandra_panamerican@yahoo.com

Designers

Adviser Dr. Greg Selber..........selberg@utpa.edu

News Editor Ana Ley....................analey23@yahoo.com A&E Editor Jeanette Perez.........fae_myst@yahoo.com Sports Editor Erick Quintero................................................. erickquintero4@hotmail.com Photography Editor Sidney Meadows................................................ ssmeadows@broncs.utpa.edu Design Editor Roy Bazan......................rbazanzz@yahoo.com

Rick Gamez Greg Garza Veronica Gonzalez

Reporters and Photographers Brian Carr Leslie Estrada

Do you think asinine dictators should continue getting media coverage? Let me know: analey23@yahoo.com

Secretary Anita Casares..........areyes18@utpa.edu Advertising Manager Samantha Quintana.....spubs@utpa.edu Assitant Advertising Manager Jacqueline Iglesias................................... jiglesiasz@broncs.utpa.edu *** Delivery Thursday at noon

Onydia Garza Ramiro Paez Lezette Villarreal

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 paper or university.

Savethesedates October

15 15 The Office of International Programs will stop accepting submissions for the "Earth Matters" International Art Exhibit. For more information, call 381-3572

16 16 The Social Work Department will host a speaker who will discuss spirituality from a Hindu perspective, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in HSHE 1114.

Newsinbrief AGREEMENTS A delegation from The University of Texas-Pan American headed by Paul Sale, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, met Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 with administrators and faculty members from Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM) and Universidad de Autonoma de Nuevo Leon (UANL) in Monterrey, Mexico. During the visit, UTPA officials were able to renew an agreement with UANL for collaborative academic and research programs as well as faculty/student exchange. At ITESM, where a similar agreement was established with UTPA two years ago, representatives from both institutions reviewed their existing programs and relationships.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Pan American gladly accepts letters from students, staff and faculty regarding recent newspaper content, campus concerns or current events. 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, phone number, classification/title and major if applicable. Please send all story ideas to the corresponding section editor or to thepanamerican@gmail.com at least two weeks prior to event.

October 11, 2007

N EWS

Page 3

THE PAN AMERICAN

IN REMEMBRANCE

Scholarship established to honor late prof

ACADEMIC

College students lack civic background Nat’l survey shows deficiency in civic studies By JAY PEDREGOSA The Pan American

By ABIGAIL MUNIZ The Pan American

Can you name all 34 members on the Texas Legislature? If you can’t, don’t worry because according to a survey released by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, you’re no big exception. The survey, released on September 6, indicates that 14,000 college seniors and freshman at 50 universities nationwide — including Texas State University in San Marcos and Texas A&M International University in Laredo — scored an average grade of 54 on a quiz covering American history, government, international relations and market economy. The study tested students at various institutions, from public, state universities to Ivy League schools, over topics such as the Cold War, the Federalist Papers and the U.S. Constitution. The findings suggest that students have a deficiency in the field of civics — - the study of the branch of political science that deals with the rights and duties

As director of the Honors Studies Program for 12 years, Raymond Welch was not only an educational guide, but also a colleague and reputable member of the community at The University of Texas-Pan American. The professor, who died on July, will now live on at his alma mater thanks to close friends, retired faculty and family members who have all contributed to a scholarship recently established in his honor. Marian Monta, Welch’s longtime friend, sent a letter pitching an idea for the scholarship to retired faculty members as well as close friends of Welch. Contributions were sent to the UTPA Foundation. Monta, who was unreachable at press time, was once the director for the theatre-TV-film program at UTPA. Ken Buckman, now the director of the program, hopes that the The Raymond Welch Scholarship will help

See HISTORICAL page 12

of citizens. Many students at The University of Texas-Pan American believe that it is important to know politics and government, but when asked to name at least three Texas representatives of Congress, blank stares were the main response. Samuel Freeman, a political science professor at UTPA, said that “the students’ pervasive lack of knowledge” on civic issues “is abominable.” Freeman said he is against the way social studies teachers in high school and middle school teach their students, adding that “teachers only teach the monkey-see,-monkey-do garbage that’s on standardized tests.” “Students are distracted from the educational process and these types of testing are degrading the quality of students,” he added. But James P. Wenzel, a UTPA political science professor of 20 years, disagreed. “Considering that they are dealing with an audience who don’t find this topic interesting, they do a very good job,” he said. The study also shows that minorities score lower on civics tests than Anglos, and that foreign students learn virtually nothing about U.S. history at

American universities. But Xi Chen, a new political science professor at UTPA, said that she was “impressed by the students’ awareness of their civil rights.” Comparing UTPA students, 85 percent of whom are Hispanic, to students at her previous school, Virginia Tech, Chen said “students here have impressive attitudes towards the subject; they take up information quickly.” “Students at UTPA have enough interest and know enough civics to help them fight corruption, to keep up with democracy, and to help them make good decisions,” she said. “They don’t have so much knowledge, but they do have impressive attitudes.” Most professors agree that if the general public fully understood the system by which the American government is run, people would be more likely to get involved, and students would have a greater sense of civic responsibility. Wenzel said a good way to spark an interest in civil rights and other issues in the Rio Grande Valley is to “invite more people to speak of issues important to

See CIVICS page 12

See Page 12 to test your knowledge of civics.

CAMPUS

POLITICS

Saenz speaks on election, arrest Bill may affect uninsured ‘Everyone is innocent until proven guilty’ By ANA LEY The Pan American Local engineer Eddie Saenz is yet again vying for a seat on the Texas Legislature to represent House District 40, the largest by land mass in Hidalgo County. Covering west and north of the county, the district includes cities like Edinburg, La Joya and Elsa. Saenz is challenging Rep. Aaron Pena, the seat’s incumbent since 2002. He last battled Pena in 2004 but garnered a mere 35 percent of the vote. Now Saenz wants another go and remains confident his chances of winning the March Democratic primary are high despite an arrest last month for

driving under the influence. In the following Pan American interview, Saenz speaks of his arrest, describes his plans for the district if elected, and reacts to criticism from Pena. Q: What are some of your goals for UTPA students in the next Legislature, if you are elected? A: Under the Republican leaders my opponent voted for in Austin, college tuition rates have soared, pushing a college education out of the reach for many middle-class families. While China and India are investing in the next generation of our global competitors, my opponent and his partisan allies are making it harder for South Texans to get a college degree. When elected, I will push for a three-year moratorium on tuition hikes and increased state funding of proven programs in our local college and universities. Q: Why do you think you should

be elected? What makes you a superior candidate? A: As an engineer, I know about building things. I have spent my whole life making communities stronger, not betraying them. I am also a Democrat, and I will vote like one. That means promoting new jobs, expanding health care, improving our schools and renewing our faith in our future. It also means going to the trenches to find out what concerns our communities have and how to address them. The mayors and other local leaders who are supporting me need a partner in Austin. My opponent refuses to meet with them and has a hard time pointing to anything he has done for any of these small communities. Q: What are major differences between your priorities and Rep. Pena's? A: I am running to represent people

See SAENZ page 12

By NADIA TAMEZ The Pan American College freshman Laura Guajardo and her family depend on her parents’ insurance to pay for most of the fees they acquire when she undergoes treatment for blindness in her left eye. Without the help of an insurance company, “there would be no way I would be able to continue my surgeries or doctor’s appointments,” said Guajardo, 18. The full-time rehabilitative services major has had two surgeries to date and still needs one more, meaning she has to plan around it so as not to miss school. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 allows students between ages 19 and 24 to continue coverage under their parents’ health care plan as long as they are considered dependents. Dependent status is characterized by the IRS as being enrolled in

school full-time as defined by the university for at least five months a year. Currently, a piece of legislation under review could change this enrollment requirement. Bill S.400 - also known as Michelle’s Law - would amend the ERISA to “ensure that dependent students who take a medically necessary leave of absence do not lose health insurance coverage.” According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Web site, the ERISA “is a federal law that sets minimum standards for most voluntarily established pension and health plans in private industry to provide protection for individuals in these plans.” Michelle’s Law came about when a New Hampshire college student was diagnosed with cancer but could not afford to lose her parents’ insurance coverage by going below 12 hours, despite

See HEALTH page 12

October 11, 2007

Page 4 NEWS

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October 11, 2007 NEWS

Q SEEN AND CAPTURED By J.R. ORTEGA The Pan American

Nick Dodd /The Pan American SHOOTING FOR SUCCESS - Alfredo Gonzalez, freshman electrical engineering major from Mission, practices his shot at the law enforcement career expo Tuesday at the University Ballroom.

Q WILD ART

Onydia Garza/The Pan American POOL TIME - Luis Ruiz, junior English major, and Albert Garza, sophomore engineer major, take in a game during their free time at the Student Union.

In an effort to persuade students to pursue careers in law enforcement, The University of Texas Pan American’s Office of Career Services hosted its second annual Law Enforcement Exposition Tuesday at the University Ballroom. The purpose of the exposition was to give students the opportunity to observe different careers in law enforcement and to give those in need of internships and jobs a chance for a set career. Last year, 11 agencies attended the exposition but this year the numbers more than doubled. Agencies such as the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Border Patrol attended, presenting students to a variety of career options in both federal and local organizations. Booths and law enforcement agents were not the only attraction for curious students. The U.S. Army provided M16 weapon simulators to give those interested in weaponry and the military a more hands-on experience. Susie Chapa, assistant director of the Office of Career Services and coordinator of the event, said that because there have been expos offered at events like Hispanic Engineering, Science and Technology Week, there was “really no reason why there should not be one for those interested in law enforcement.”

October 11, 2007

Page 6 NEWS

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

October 11, 2007

Page 7

THE PAN AMERICAN

Q THEATER

Q STUDENT LIFE

Once forbidden play hits UTPA stage Students

screen films at McAllen Art/Film fest

‘The House of Bernalda Alba’ marks beginning of theater season

By LESLIE ESTRADA The Pan American

By LESLIE ESTRADA The Pan American A grieving group of women clad in black mourning the death of a patriarch takes center stage. Loud cries and streaming tears emanate from the group. The darkness in their clothes and mourning creates tension and fills the room with distress. “When Bermuda's husband dies, she locks all the doors and windows. She tells her grown-up daughters to sew and be silent. There are eight years of mourning ahead of us. While it lasts, not even the wind will get into this...” reads a passage in Federico Garcia de Lorca’s famous dramatic story, “The House of Bernarda Alba,” which is the University of Texas-Pan American’s first main stage play of the season. The play runs from Oct. 10 through Oct. 14 in the Albert L. Jeffers Theater. Curtain times are at 8 p.m Wednesday through Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. The play, written a month before Lorca’s assassination by a fascist group in 1936, transcends the domestic setting, exploring freedom and self-expression and the darkness of oppression. For these reasons, Lorca’s play was forbidden to be produced until 1953. Eric Wiley, theater department professor, chose to direct the play because he always wanted to see a play by Lorca come to life on the UTPA main stage, and because of his admiration for the beauty of the Spanish language. "This play draws attention to the social position of women in families and larger society," he said. "It also demonstrates women's abilities to pursue difficult challenges, such as enacting an intense drama." Born in 1889, Granada native Lorca first became known for his poetry. Lorca wrote his most famous plays while touring Spain with a university theatre department. It was during this period that Lorca wrote his most famous plays, the rural trilogy, which includes “The House of Bernarda Alba,” “Blood Wedding,” and “Yerma.” They all rein-

forced his belief that great art requires one to be aware of connection to land and death, and recognize the limitations of reason. The play is not only an entertaining one, according to Wiley, but it tells a serious story meant to evoke feelings in the audience. "It reveals some of the ways that authoritarian oppression plays out within everyday cultural traditions and family life," Wiley said. "It has the potential to influence your thinking on your own background and values." “The House of Bernarda Alba” stands out not only as the first of the opening season. The production itself is entirely different from previous plays the UTPA theater has seen on stage: an all-female cast. "I read the play and I found it very interesting," said Ruby Fierros, a graduate theater major. "I really like that it is an all-female cast, so it is a different experience than when you have males." Fierros, who plays La Poncia, or the maid, believes the play offers an opportunity for a small city to experience a taste of a famous drama the UTPA theater has not often seen the likes of. "We might not be a Broadway show," she said. "But we can give a performance as great as them." Elva Galvan, managing director of the university theatre, finds importance in exposing students to this type of art. "One of the missions of the univer-

sity theatre is to bring back the master pieces of theatre from the past for the current generation to experience," Galvan said. "This is one play that aptly suits our mission."

For reservations call the Box Office at 381-3581.

All photos by Tom Grabowski DEBUT - (Top from left) Rebecca Zarate, Rachel Saldana, Jackie Guerra and (bottom) Brenda Batista perform scenes from “The House of Bernalda Alba.” The play, written by famous Spanish writer Federico Garcia de Lorca, was forbidden until 1953. It debuted on UTPA’s stage Wednesday and runs until Oct. 14.

It is the year 2018. A biological bomb has just exploded. Two former lovers struggle to find each other and face their destiny in the now chaotic world. As they try to make a life for themselves and their daughter, they face a grim prediction: the end of the world is near. While this may sound like another Hollywood-produced, big-budget blockbuster in the making, it is actually far from it. The plotline is actually that of “Exodus,” a science-fiction story penned by a University of Texas-Pan American student for the Palm Fest Art and Film Festival. Senior Salvador Gutierrez wrote and directed the film, which aired at the festival last weekend at the McAllen Convention Center. The festival consisted of 116 different art exhibitions of various types, and a film portion. “I worked on this project for about six months,” said the 23-year-old who resides in McAllen. Gutierrez said while he was proud of his accomplishment, he also looked forward to getting feedback. “I believe this is a great experience and I am also interested to see what people's criticism will consist of,” he said. Following a call for entries from Mexico and throughout the United States, Annabel Cortina, film festival coordinator, said a total of 16 were chosen to air out of all the submissions. “There were about 25 to 30 people per screening and about 500 people in attendance,” said Cortina. “We decided to start small so it can grow overtime.” Although a lot of entries were submitted, the winners made it based on a combination of content, creativity, uniqueness, story line and production value. “We tried to go with films that had a great story as opposed to better editing, because that is what captivates the audience,” said Cortina. “As films were coming in, we had a committee that selected the films to screen at the festival.”

See STUDENTS page 10

October 11, 2007

Page 8

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American ‘ANIME’TED - Attendees of Shimakon enjoyed a weekend of cosplay (term for costume and role-playing) and other activites.

www.rickymartin.de

Page 9

October 11, 2007

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

t’s not unusual for South Padre Island to find itself inundated with tourists, residents and crowds of students every weekend, but last weekend the sandy beach city was animated with life for more than the normal attractions. It was a vivid array of colorful hair, impressive costumes and vibrant personalities as hundreds of people and characters swamped the lobby and first floor of the Bahia Mar Resort for the Rio Grande Valley’s 2nd annual Anime convention, ShimaKon. Kicking off Friday morning and closing Sunday evening, the Valley’s first notable anime convention played host to the wonderfully diverse animation world, its fans and creators for a three-day event to remember. It was an Anime lover’s dream come true. Born in August 2005 from the Shimamom herself, Kathy Russell, ShimaKon, which began as an avid fan’s contribution to the anime culture, developed into something much more than an amateur’s handiwork said head of press relations for ShimaKon, Albert “Orion” Passeman. “Shimakon started when a local Anime club wanted a Valley based convention. Ever since then, Valley Anime clubs along with Kathy and Amanda Russell worked together to help Shimakon become a success,” said Passeman. “So you can say that ShimaKon is run by the fans and for the fans.” Last September, the convention had more than an estimated 2,000 people in attendance at the SPI. Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort, proving to be a successful event. This year the celebration was planned a year in advance, and with a more spacious area and the addition of events, ShimaKon thrived yet again with its ‘Pirate’ theme. Passeman couldn’t be more thrilled of how ShimaKon has been accepted. “It’s fun. This year it’s bigger, more stuff to program and more room to explore,” said Passeman who’s been involved in the Anime scene since 2005. “The people want it and need it. So they got it.” University of Texas-Pan American junior psychology major Monique Martinez has been kicking it, Anime style, for almost a decade. “’Sailor Moon’ was what drew me in. Everyone got obsessed with that in ’96,” said the Alamo native who’s made four trips to A-Kon, the longest running anime convention in the United States. “Anime is something different that doesn’t stick to the rules. You can actually see something play out.” While each day

brought varying events, much of the schedule remained the same throughout the three days. The early mornings had everyone surveying the ground floor for the beginning of an interesting, fun-filled day. After a session of Name that Chibi — the Japanese term for dwarf or small child — at 9 a.m., a game of matching character identities and the Anime version of ‘Name that tune,’ autographs were given by some of Anime and Manga (Japanese word for comics and print cartoons) popular voice actors and artists. Sonny Strait, the voice behind Krillin of the popular hit anime series, “Dragonball Z” and Maes Hughes in “Full Metal Alchemist,” spoke his mind at noon. Autograph sessions and workshops from artist Doug Smith of “Case Closed,” “Golden Boy” and “Dragon Knight”; Darrel Guilbeau of “Zoids Genesis” and “When they Cry”; Spike Spencer of “Neon Genesis Evangelion” and “Bleach”; and ‘Envy’ herself, Wendy Powell, ensued. For those interested in the gaming experience, the video room offered favorites Guitar Hero II, Soul Caliber II and Super Smash Bros. Melee. Aspiring singers could sing their lungs out at nighttime karaoke, and those with an itch to dance could bust a move at Dance Dance Revolution during the midnight hours. For the hardcore fans, the upstairs dealer room satisfied any appetite offering all sorts of memorabilia, figures, Manga comics and books, music, art, food, apparel; just about everything one could possibly imagine of the genre. Tables with artists, merchants and fanatics filled the Autumn Market/Artist Alley. Original paintings, comic books, cosplay (term for costume and role-playing) outfits and accessories, artwork, edible Japanese goodies, a massage station, and even Moon plots caught the eye of onlookers. The market was a sight all its own. Comic book artist Justin Hernandez of Harlingen was among those hoping to gain recognition from the crowd. “This is the first time I’ve had a set-up like this. I usually spend my time going to places like this, never actually being part of one, so it’s different,” said the 24year-old who’s attended the Wizard World Texas Comic Conventions for the past four years. “It’s cool though, because I get to meet all sorts of interesting people and I get to share my artwork with them. Not only that but I get to have interesting conversations with strangers whom I normally wouldn’t talk to under regular circumstances.” The opportunity for acknowledgement and recognition is exactly what Autumn Market director and UTPA senior Laura Gomez seeks to bring. For her, an Anime convention offers what people need most: fun. “It’s so fantastic. It’s a good way to escape reality,”

said the graphic arts major from Mission, who is also secretary for UTPA’s Japanese Animation club. “It’s a great way to spend the weekend. Everyone’s having fun, with the exception of some parents who are gripey because they don’t want to be here.” RISE, FALL While the anime culture has certainly risen, interest wasn’t always so good. “There was actually a decline in interest for a while at school. I myself made fun of it for so long before I finally became a fan,” said Gomez, who’s been part of the Anime club since fall 2004. “But it’s gone up, especially with the younger generation. It’s good that we have younger kids because they’re the ones who can pass on this knowledge and get society more involved. The Anime culture has grown really big.” An important aspect that can’t be missed at any Anime convention is the value of socializing, which most con-goers look forward to the most. “It’s great because you get to meet other people with the same interests as you and you get to take pictures of people dressed as famous characters,” Martinez said. “Also, it is cool seeing if there’s anything new and interesting coming out and getting in on the latest craze before anyone else does.” Passemen himself can’t get enough of the cosplay scene. He wore a white robe and sprayed his hair white in honor of it. “It’s fun doing it because you get to know the role,” he explained. “I love taking pictures of all the people who are dressed up. It’s the best part.” Finding comfort in the unusual and embracing the surroundings are vital in order to enjoy what ShimaKon has to offer. “This is a place where you can loosen up and relax for an entire weekend instead of working and staying in every day,” artist Hernandez said. “It’s definitely a good place to be yourself and kick back while having fun.” The people, not just the Anime and Manga, are what really make a convention come to life. “We may look weird, act weird. Well, maybe we are weird. But we’re just being our childhood selves and indulging,” said Gomez, who says the whole experience pays off in the end. “It’s been a headache, but a good headache.” A few ‘Sailor Moons,’ Lolita schoolgirls, and ninja fighters later, one will definitely find that normal attire makes one the outcast. “You’ll find more cat ears and cat tails here than anywhere else,” laughed Hernandez.

October 11, 2007

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American ‘ANIME’TED - Attendees of Shimakon enjoyed a weekend of cosplay (term for costume and role-playing) and other activites.

www.rickymartin.de

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October 11, 2007

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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October 11, 2007 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

COMMUNITY

TV CORNER

Silent auction to benefit ailing STC art pioneer By BRIAN CARR The Pan American The Art House in McAllen will host a benefit auction for former South Texas College administrator Ray Hernandez this Friday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. organized by STC professors, Richard Smith and Kim Johnson. Hernandez, who was diagnosed with tongue and neck cancer about five years ago, will not be on hand. Donated work from local artists will be auctioned and money earned will be given to help finance Hernandez’ ongoing treatment. Currently Hernandez lives in Wisconsin, where he works as an art professor at the University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan. Until recently the one-time Valley resident held the position of dean of arts at that same institution, but deteriorating health forced him to step down.

While in the Valley, Hernandez was instrumental in the creation of the art department at STC. Jose Cruz Jr., vice president of information services and planning, says that Hernandez’ leadership at STC left a lasting impression that can be seen at the college today. “Ten years ago, before we had an art program at STC, there were extremely few art showings, gallery exhibits and other art related events,” Cruz said. “Today it seems hard to choose which art exhibit opening to attend.” According to Cruz, Hernandez’s leadership not only fostered artistic awareness, but it also established artistic participation and avenues for creativity. “Since the creation of the art department, art majors and other students at STC have produced marvelous works that have been showcased and admired by many,” he explained. “His main contribution to the art community

was the creation of the department at South Texas College back in the 1990s. We might not have an art program had it not been for Ray’s leadership, vision and love of the arts.” University of Texas-Pan American art professor, Chris Leonard sees the importance in helping out a fellow artist and contributing to the cause. “I don’t know Ray personally, but it’s HERNANDEZ for a good cause. Richard and Kim have put together a purposeful art show for a worthwhile and heartfelt purpose,” said Leonard, who has taught a few classes at the STC campus. “I’ll use whatever time and talent I have to assist in the local effort.” The bulk of his financial woes, have stemmed from a life-saving opera-

tion. According to Arts & Diversity Benefit, a fundraising organization established to help Hernandez, the procedure was experimental and therefore not covered by insurance. Hernandez is currently recovering from the surgery, and the cancer is in remission. Hernandez’s daughter Heather Stieber said her father continues to be an inspiration even through the obstacles. “My father is a man of endless inspiration. He has not ever wanted to be a burden to anyone since becoming ill,” she said. “In fact, he continues to work to this day, sharing his passion for the arts. His goodness has enriched the lives of many because of his desire to help the world evolve into a better place.” In addition to the auction, Arts & Diversity maintains a Web site that collects donations, and sells “Cancer Sux” T-shirts for $15 each. Visit home.satx.rr.com/psbozkurt to donate.

MOVIE REVIEW

Directing, acting make ‘Golden Age’ epic classic By RUSSEN VELA The Pan American Over the past several years, Hollywood epic films have gotten a lot of flack for not being original or worse, for being too formulaic. Audiences have been yawning and blowing off wanna-be epics, opting to watch comedy and action films. While some epic films have surpassed the curse and went on to huge and critical success, many have crashed and burned. Now with Oscar season upon us, “Elizabeth: The Golden Age” has taken a new route and has delivered a mindblowing, original piece of film that has definitely brought back the Hollywood epic movie experience to theaters. The film finds Queen Elizabeth I, Oscar winner Cate Blanchett (“Notes on a Scandal,” “Elizabeth,” “The Aviator”) facing bloodlust for her throne, and familial betrayal. She becomes aware of the changing religious and political tides of late 16th century Europe, and finds her rule openly challenged by the Spanish King Philip II, played by Jordi Molla (“Blow,” “The Alamo”), who is determined to restore England to Catholicism. While the prequel film “Elizabeth” focused on her rise to power, this one centers on how divinity can make a person immortal. Shekhar Kapur, who directed the Oscar-winning prequel, has mastered the sequel with great success. Everything he does with this movie is epic. To the lush costumes which rival those of Sofia Coppola’s “Marie Antoinette,” to sets

fashioned with gold cloth, silver tapestries, and crimson red velvet, Kapur has surely mastered the visual aspect of an epic film with the use of computer graphics to show battles of the Spanish Armada against the English. Blanchett, who was nominated for Best Actress in 1998 for the prequel but lost to a mediocre performance from Gwyneth Paltrow, proves yet again why she and not Helen Mirren, Glenda Jackson, or Bette Davis, was born to play this role. She commands the screen with her powerful voice and energy, and

when the audience sees her they understand why she is this generation’s Meryl Streep. Never has an actress graced the screen with such versatility and charisma in playing a historical female figure, making her so real and human that viewers can identify. Along with Blanchett’s amazing portrayal goes Oscar nominee Clive Owen (“Closer,” “Children of Men”), who plays the English pirate Walter Raleigh. His charismatic presence as a macho-man with a heart of gold will bring women to their knees and give male

audiences the urge to be just like him. “Elizabeth: The Golden Age” has everything the epic film has been missing. It has comedy, romance and of course, a lot of action. Shekhar Kapur is once again a director who can guide epics and make the audience go back to the once-lost big-time experience. If the Academy Awards people have been searching for an epic film to reward, then they need look no further. The Golden Age” has definitely revived the epic genre, which was -- until now - considered dead and buried.

thecia.com.au ROYALTY - Cate Blanchett, who plays the Queen in “The Golden Age,” delivers a standout performance in the historical epic.

What

You’re

Not

Watching “Pushing Daisies” By JEANETTE PEREZ The Pan American

here’s a new reason to add Wednesdays to your TV list this season. With its new fall line-up, ABC brings a unique comedy-drama to your television screens: “Pushing Daisies.” “Pushing Daisies” is a mystery-fantasy tale focusing on Ned (Lee Pace), with the special ability to resurrect the dead. The gift however, has its drawbacks. If Ned touches the revived person twice, they die permanently. If a person is revived for more than a minute, someone else dies. Ned, his investigator friend, Emerson Cod (Chi McBride), and his recently revived childhood sweetheart, Charlotte “Chuck” Charles (Anna Friel) use the gift by seeking out murderers and collecting rewards. If you want something more ‘out there’ than “CSI” or “Law and Order,” “Pushing Daisies” is the perfect twist for the usual crime-solving shows. Resurrect your Wednesday nights by watching it on ABC at 7 p.m. this fall.

STUDENTS continued from page 7

TV/film major and junior Fernando Martinez, also submitted his film “Sen5es,” a horror flick that portrays how the human senses help us see the world in a different way. Martinez felt getting a screening at the festival was a good opportunity to gain exposure. “The point of submitting my work was to expand the audience, basically to get it out there to as much people as possible,” said Martinez of Edinburg. “It is not only to benefit myself, but also to create a culture toward these types of events.” Cortina said that the festival will occur annually and hopefully will attract more people in the future. “We are starting to see such an increase in the awareness of art and culture," said Cortina. “Film is another form of art and that is what we want to transmit to the public.” She also said that hopefully, having a film festival in the Rio Grande Valley will inspire more students to participate. “We want people to believe that they don’t have to move to other places in order to make it in this industry,” said Cortina. “There are opportunities here in the Valley and we are starting to see it now.”

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October 11, 2007 NEWS

GORBACHEV continued from page 1 with people, these discussions came rapidly after the 20th Congress of the Communist Party. We discussed the consequences of Stalin’s leadership and gave it much criticism which was totally justified. …I remember [the public] listened, and then they departed. Nobody believed what I said. Nobody believed Stalin had committed these crimes.” Still, he accepted that Russians who followed Stalin’s regime assisted the leader’s corruption by not questioning it. “I remember writing a paper during my college career titled ‘Stalin, the Father of Youth,’” he said. “I joined the Communist Party in the tenth grade, right after World War II, right after the long-awaited victory that cost much life. This was Stalin’s victory.” Gorbachev, the recipient of the 1990 Nobel Peace Prize, the Orders of Lenin, the Red Banner of Labor and the Badge of Honor, urged the audience to push for “peace in the 21st century,” emphasizing the need for new leadership and political reform, pointing out specific crises around the globe and offering possible solutions to them. He said the world should adopt globalization to live in peace and harmony. “Globalization is used in advanced nations but it is condemned in other places,” he said. “I was shocked to visit the developing, Arab world and see the criticism of globalization in these areas. They told me globalization should not be something [the world] should have.” The United States’ global dominance is being threatened these days,

because other countries are quickly catching up in the race for power, he said, citing countries such as China, India and Brazil as potential superpowers of the future. “These new power centers, these giants will change the world,” he said. “It is increasingly important to integrate them into power in an organic and positive way. …America doesn’t need to be an empire.” When asked to draw parallels between the Berlin Wall and the U.S./Mexico border wall currently in the works, Gorbachev expressed concerns that the new wall will be ineffective.

Q “It’s a lot better to build a university near the border than a wall.” - Mikhail Gorbachev Former president Soviet Union “I won’t repeat what Reagan said once [when he asked Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall,] but historically, walls like the Great Wall of China and the Berlin Wall were not particularly effective,” he said. “A country as wealthy as the United States does not have all the money in the world, so why waste it on this kind of thing?” At a welcome reception prior to Gorbachev’s speech, Van Reidhead, dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and chair of the Distinguished Speakers Committee,

LAW continued from page 1 Celeste Martinez, think that the new law is long overdue and will hold students responsible for their academic selections. “Students should take their classes seriously,” said the freshman psychology major. “I think this bill should have

“We believe that students should take seriously the selection of their major and, subsequently, the selection of courses to meet degree requirements. - Dennis McMillan Associate vice president Enrollment and Student Services

been passed a while ago, because it leaves a better selection of classes open for everybody else.” However, others on campus see SB 1231 as an infringement on a student’s right to feel comfortable with the courses they are taking. Diego Benitez said

Sandra Gonzalez/The Pan American WARM WELCOME- Mikhail Gorbachev (left), former Soviet leader, receives applause from Van Reidhead (center), dean of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Juan Gonzalez (right), assistant vice president for Business Affairs, at a welcome reception prior to his speech, following a statement decrying the impending border wall.

approached Gorbachev, telling him that at UTPA “here on the border, we are building the world.” “It’s a lot better to build a universi-

ty near the border than a wall,” joked Gorbachev. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the next speaker for the Distinguished Speaker

Series. He is an attorney and activist who advocates for environmental conservation, and has been recognized by Time magazine as a Hero for the Planet.

RECONSTRUCTION continued from page 1 that everybody makes mistakes, including the legislators who supported the law. “We all wish we could have done something differently in hindsight,” said the junior criminal justice major. “Even those who pushed this bill through the Legislature have made mistakes, and I think it is wrong for us to be penalized so heavily for doing something everybody does. Give the students the benefit of the doubt, at least.” Marciela Hernandez, a freshman business major who will likely be affected by the law, said she was not aware about the policy change and is glad she knows about it early into her college career because she has already dropped a course. “I didn't know about the new law because I'm new to the whole university setting,” said Hernandez, freshman business major. “This semester I dropped a math course, and now I have to worry about this new law limiting the number of my dropped courses for the rest of my time in college.”

32-year-old building took on rust. Because the building was lacking any other structural support, the walls began to fall. “We’re fortunate in two respects,” explained Boland. “For one, nobody got hurt. Number two, it gave us a real heads up that not only that building has a problem, but others might have a problem.” The crew came up with a system called “re-pinning.” Essentially, 8-inchlong pins are being inserted through the brick wall and into the backup wall to support the building. As a result, the bricks stay on. And the cleanup scheme will become a part of future efforts across campus. “We instituted not only the reconstruction of the SBS building, but are continuing to review and plan to re-pin 11 more buildings on the campus that were built during the same era with the same basic construction,” Boland said. Boland is currently compiling budget proposals to repin the buildings in question, which were built from 1969 to 1979.

Some buildings up for review are the library, the Fine Arts complexes, the Health and Physical Education I and, surprisingly, the newly renovated Student Services Executive Tower. Boland explained that although the Tower was just remodeled, only inside alterations were made. His crew has already re-pinned the east wall of the

SBS, in a job that runs about $375,000. It will cost UTPA about $918,000 to complete the other 11 buildings. Jose Castillo, a freshman criminal justice major said the construction at the SBS building makes it “get real crowded. People try to come in and people try to go out. It’s a big inconvenience. At times I can get delayed.”

Marvin Boland FALLEN - This cell phone photo shows the east wall of the SBS building, currently under construction.

October 11, 2007

Page 12 NEWS

WELCH

continued from page 3 help students in the program. “If anyone deserves to be commemorated through a scholarship, he does,” she said. “He did a lot of work. When I came in [as director] he had left the program in excellent shape so that I could move into the next phase of its development.” Emily Garza, a senior double major in physics and math who is part of the Honors Program, was not yet aware of it because the scholarship is still in its early stages of development. “Now that I know about it, I would consider applying for it,” said Garza, an Edinburg resident. “The fact that it is commemorated to someone from UTPA might also make it more meaningful if you get [the scholarship],” Garza said. Applications for the scholarship are due Dec. 1 and it will be awarded by Feb.1, 2008. Anyone interested in more information about applying should contact Buckman in SBS 104. MEMORIES Welch retired from UTPA in 2001 and subsequently returned to his hometown of East Aurora, N.Y., where he

died of lung cancer on July 3. He served as director for the Honors Program from 1986 to 1998 and taught history and philosophy at the university for 30 years until his retirement. The professor earned a B.A. in 1963, then attended the University of Pennsylvania and graduated with a Ph.D. in 1970. At UTPA he took part in organizations such as the American Organist Guild and the American Philosophical Association. “He has a legacy of individuals that are now doctors, lawyers and professors that he worked with at one point in his career,” said Saavedra. “I hope the word gets out about the scholarship.” Amanda Cuevas is currently the assistant dean of student affairs and of the medical scholars program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Urbana-Champaign. But she still remembers being an honors student at UTPA when Welch was the program’s coordinator. Cuevas met Welch right before her freshman year at UTPA in the fall of 1996. “The one thing that stood out to me the most was that when I met him, he

just worked very quickly to get my [honors] application process done,” said Cuevas, who was then a speech communication major. Cuevas, a McAllen native, said that Welch always made her “feel very important,” adding that students were his top priority. “I’m very pleased that the scholarship was set up and will continue to help students in true Welch fashion,” she said. Buckman remembers being personally mentored by Welch in 1992 when he arrived at UTPA. “I felt a great deal of attachment, respect and gratitude that he helped me go through the process,” he said. “Interestingly, he was mentoring the students going through the honors program, mentoring the students going through the philosophy program, and he was mentoring me… that means a lot.” Buckman said Welch’s influence has inspired him to persevere in his current role. “I try to pass on the same type of mentoring Dr. Welch gave me,” he said.

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all across District 40, not the special interests in Austin. My priorities are the district's priorities, and every decision I make will be to improve the quality of life for families and small businesses here, not somewhere else. I applauded my opponent when he fled to Ardmore, Okla., to try to stop redistricting being pushed by the Republican speaker and his allies. But when my opponent flip-flopped and supported that same Republican speaker for a committee chair, he betrayed our trust. And nothing symbolizes that betrayal more than when he chose not to fight against the voter ID bill earlier this year that would have jeopardized our basic right to vote. Q: Rep. Pena said you have been running "dirty whisper" campaigns

HEALTH

via blogs that misinterpret information against him and his family. What is your reaction to this statement? A: This is just the latest in a campaign of personal smears my opponent is running against me, and he was embarrassed when he couldn't back up the claim in a recent interview. I do not blog and do not own any blogs. I have not said a single word about his family. The people of District 40 are growing weary of these Republican-style personal smears. They are ready for a new day and a new direction. That's why I am focusing on positive change - more jobs, expanded health care, better schools, lower college tuition rates, and a renewed faith in our common future. Q: What do you think your

chances of winning this election are? Do you think they are greater or lower than the last time you ran? A: I like my chances. The voters of District 40 want positive change, not more of the same. That's why I have the endorsements of the majority of the mayors in the District and still growing THIS IS UNCLEAR, as well as numerous city council members and school board officials. And last but not least, the hardworking South Texans across our district who want proactive representation. Q: Do you think your recent DUI arrest might negatively affect your campaign? Do you think it might be distracting? A: The district knows me and is aware of how hard I've worked to make

this a better place to live. My opponent may choose to talk about this incident because he doesn't have anything positive to say about his own record. Q: Do you think the public should withhold judgment for your arrest, as your lawyer has suggested? A: Everyone is innocent until proven guilty, and to pass judgment before all the facts are known would be like lynching someone without a trial. The people of District 40 are fairminded, and they know my record of public service. I have faith in their judgment. Q: Has an arrest like this been made in your past? A: I have never been in trouble with the law. I will also not comment on the case as requested by my attorney.

percent were too old to be covered by their parents’ insurance, 7 percent were not covered by their employer, 2 percent felt it was not needed and 1 percent were denied due to pre-existing conditions, said Gray. “About half of my undergraduate career I didn’t have any [insurance],” said Jen Leal, a clinical psychology graduate student. “I guess I assumed that I was going to be healthy and that nothing was going to happen to me.” Leal said the fact that she wasn’t covered by her job as a part-time employee was also a part of the reason

she went without insurance, and so she went to the Student Health Clinic whenever she had minor illnesses. A portion of student fees covers basic on-campus care for those enrolled. Consultations with Student Health Services are free, and students pay only for lab work and medicine. Additional insurance that may cover both students and their families is offered by the UT System through United Healthcare, said Gray. “The problems begin to be encountered when they need services outside our scope of practice,” he said.

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the effects it would have on her health. Michelle's Law was signed into action for New Hampshire by Governor John Lynch on June 22, 2006. It is now under review as a federal bill by the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pension in both the House and Senate and was cosponsored in the House of Representatives by Rep. Ruben Hinojosa along with four other Congress members from Texas. But the chances this proposed law will affect many students at The University of Texas-Pan American is unlikely, said Director of Student Health

Services Rick Gray. “[Most] students at UTPA have no insurance anyway so this law would only benefit a small number of students taking a year off." UNINSURED In fact, about 78 percent of students at The University of Texas-Pan American have no insurance, said Gray, referring to a Texas Department of Insurance survey in 2005. Of those who did not have insurance, 71 percent said it was because they could not afford it, 10 percent were not aware about how to obtain insurance, 9

the people of the Valley, and invite distinguished speakers and political leaders to address those issues.”

“Teachers only teach the monkey-see, monkey-do garbage that’s on standardized tests.” - Samuel Freeman Political science professor

Former Soviet Union leader Mikhail Gorbachev visited the UTPA campus Tuesday to speak on peace in the 21st century. Though most political science professors let their students know about the presentation, student interest varied from class to class. Chen said she believed her students’ “profound interest” induced plenty of them to attend.

Do you know your civics? 1. Jamestown, Virginia was first settled by Europeans during which period? A. 1301-1304 B. 1401-1500 C. 1501-1600 D. 1601-1700 2. Which of the following are in correct chronological order? A. The Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, B. Fort Sumter, Gettysburg, Appomattox C. Cuban Missile Crisis, Sputnik, Bay of Pigs D. Mexican-American War, Louisiana Purchase, SpanishAmerican War 3. Abraham Lincoln was elected President during which period? A. 1800-1825 B. 1826-1850 C. 1851-1875 D. 1876-1900 4. In 1933 Franklin Delano Roosevelt proposed a series of government programs that became known as: A. The Great Society B. The Square Deal C. The New Deal D. The New Frontier

Answers: 1. D 2. B 3. C 4. C

honors students so that they can focus on their studies. “It allows them to participate in the honors program, and gives them funds to devote just to their studies,” Buckman said. “Even though this particular scholarship is dedicated to Dr. Welch, any scholarship should help a student concentrate on their academics.” Buckman also mentioned he expects the scholarship would be well received. “I would hope that the student who gets [the scholarship] appreciates what Dr. Welch has done for the program,” he said. The scholarship itself is a one-time award, not an endowed fund. It will be awarded this spring semester. Buckman said he is unsure about how much money the scholarship recipient will receive. “He really epitomized a true gentleman and a scholar,” said Dora Saavedra, a communication professor at UTPA who knew Welch. Saavedra, who has been a professor at UTPA for 15 years, took over the Honors Program post in 1998 when Welch left that position. She said she remembers Welch was always willing to

SAENZ

CIVICS

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Page 13

October 11, 2007 SPORTS

FRONT OFFICE

UTPA’s Monaco leaves after three years Interim SID appointed as he heads to TCU By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American It is the perfect working environment developed over three years that Joseph Monaco will miss most about leaving the university that made him the youngest NCAA Division I Sports Information Director in the country at age 24. “My crew, 100 percent my staff, I mean Krystyna [Mancias] and my two students, those guys are family for me,” said the former assistant athletic director for media relations, referring to his three assistants. Oct. 10 was his last day at work after he accepted a job at TCU. “They keep me young, but I think we have a great atmosphere here and great camaraderie with one another.”

That very same camaraderie has allowed new interim Sports Information Director Mancias, a UTPA grad, to work on the necessary skills to take over Monaco’s duties. She is just a raw college grad, but her boss thinks she’ll do well. “Those three with her being the ringleader will be perfectly fine,” he said.

MONACO Monaco announced his departure last week and left on Wednesday to accept a similar position at TCU, where he will deal primarily with basketball,

golf and some football. At the University of Texas-Pan American Monaco dealt with local, state and national media outlets arranging coverage for all Bronc athletic teams. Mancias, a 2007 UTPA graduate and former reporter for student newspaper, The Pan American, worked as Monaco’s assistant one year before being promoted to graduate assistant. Now she is in the driver’s seat. “It is probably the best job I have had so far. Not only is Joe a great guy but he is a great teacher and a great boss, Mancias said. “Joe gave me the opportunity that many people do not get very often. I think I have learned more in these past couple of months than in my four years in college.” Monaco came to Edinburg three years ago after receiving a master’s degree in sports education at Division II Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio, where he also played baseball as an undergrad.

“They just kind of saw me as an upand-coming guy who wanted to be good in this field. It was all just about being in the right place at the right time,” said Monaco, who got into media relations after injuring his elbow playing baseball. At UTPA, whatever he didn’t know Monaco made up for by doubling the hard work. “I really go thrown in to the fire right from the get go and it actually worked out pretty well,” he said. With time, he eventually learned all aspects of media relations, marketing, administration and budgeting, a wide array of experience he calls “just invaluable,” Last year, he was asked to help out when the NCAA Final Four came to San Antonio, ran South Padre Island Invitational basketball tournament, and trained the Rio Grande Valley Dorados media relations team. Monaco said the most rewarding part of his job is seeing all his former assistants move on to better jobs and sharing his knowledge, just

like his mentor current Ashland SID Al King once did for him. “My first assistant was the director of event management over at Southern Utah, my second assistant became sports information director at Southwestern University and Bob Lopez is the head of ticket sales and CEO of EZ Tickets,” he said. “Mancias will be no exception.” As for what Mancias will miss most about Joe, “his OAR (Of A Revolution) Madison Square Garden DVD,” she said before laughing referring to one of their numerous inside office jokes. According to Monaco, a permanent replacement will be named by Dec. 1, while UTPA athletic director Scott Street said a new person will be hired within the next four to six weeks. “We have some plans in place to continue on without a letdown in our services to the media, to our student athletes and to our coaches, and we’ll use our available staff,” Street said.

GOLF

Men’s golf ends fall season with eighth-place finish

By GABRIEL SALDANA The Pan American The men’s program traveled to Lufkin Monday to compete at the Ben-Hill Crown Classic hosted by Stephen F. Austin University, and finished eighth out off a field of 10. After Monday’s two-rounder in Lufkin, Carrolton Hebron H.S alum Shane Pearce led the pack in the 29th position with a collective score of 150 (72-78). Trailing two strokes behind Pearce was Portland, Ore., native Armen Kirakossian with a 36-hole tally of 152 (78-74) and Van Horn, Texas native Jeff Hensley with a two-round tally of 155 (77-78) in the 44th spot to close out the action on day one. Senior and Phoenix Chaparral H.S graduate Kyle Tudi claimed 28th position after Tuesday’s campaign, posting a collective tally of 226 and a final round score of 77. Dropping two places by the end of the final round at the Crown Tuesday was Pearce, garnering the 31st spot by the end of the tourney to bring the match-up to a close.

Hensley recorded 44th position for the Green and Orange with a final tally of 231. Wichita State took home victory laurels ceasing first place with a three-round collective team score of 845. Oklahoma Christian trailed after recording 872, followed by UMKC (875) Oklahoma City (886) and Central Arkansas (899) to round out the top five. According to Head Coach Ofelia Lopez, placement in the bottom third of the tournament is not what the squad expected before leaving for Lufkin. “We just didn’t go out and execute our game plan,” Lopez said. “We put too much pressure on ourselves and it showed this week. When you don’t start off [well] it rattles everybody and they start thinking about mechanics and birdying the next hole.” According to Lopez, the course in Lufkin was tighter and the greens were smaller than those of previous courses, but the collective mental game of the team seemed to be on par with what the course had in store for them as they left Edinburg. The outcome of the two-day event was a

byproduct of a number of unfortunate mishaps. “They did well the first four holes,” Lopez said. “If one of them had a bad hole they continued to have bad holes or they had bad breaks. There was not one thing in particular that just went horrible.” Strategies for the next tournament include a lighter mental game. The team will strive to focus on the “fun” aspect of the match and not concern itself with to many of the technical or mechanical facets of play. “When you lose sight of the fact that you want to have fun and you are to hard on yourself, you get to a point where nothing is going to happen,” Lopez said. The men return to the course in 2008 with a visit to Houston for the Rice Intercollegiate Tournament, where the squad hopes to crack the top five and put someone in the top position. The match is slated for Feb. 17-18. The women’s team is gunning for the UAB Fall Beach Blast in Gulf Shores, Al., Nov. 5 and 6.

Melissa Uriegas SENIOR LEADER - UTPA senior Kyle Tudi finished 28th overall at the Crown Classic. His 227 (72-78-77), 54-hole tally was tops among the Broncs.

October 11, 2007

Page 14 SPORTS

MEN’S SOCCER CLUB

Aggies exact revenge on Bronc Soccer Club Men drop first home game to A&M 4-3 By GABRIEL SALDANA The Pan American It’s time to head back to the practice field for the men’s soccer club as they dropped their near flawless record to 5-2 Sunday against the Texas A&M club team. Following a fierce battle cry before the match, the Green team proceeded onto a field that would yield defeat as a riled up Aggie squad delivered devastation in a 3-4 victory. The game kicked off with a red card and ejection of playmaker Roel Treviño in the first five minutes, forcing the Bronc team to endure a eleven on ten match “Roel is the brains of the team,” said club adviser and head coach Marcelo Schmidt. “He is the playmaker and the coach on the field but I’m not going to hold it against him.” In the first half after three attacks on the A&M net, senior forward Juan P. Davila procured the first goal of the match by means of a free kick. “It felt good to help out the team [but] the ref gave me a yellow card for celebrating.” said Davila. “It was my

third yellow card.” Davila’s third card of the regular season makes him ineligible for play in Saturday’s game against San Antonio College. Each subsequent card will cost Davila an additional game. After three successful blocks by the Maroon team and heavy back and forth field play, the Broncs were able to net one more in the first half via Juan Reynoso bringing their score two-nil. “It was a team effort,” said Reynoso “We’ll take it as a team.” A&M retorted at the bottom of the half taking a drive at the net to post their first goal. The half drew to an end with a Bronc lead at 2-1. The Aggie team rallied in the second half and tied the game at the 59th minute marker before delivering a disheartening blow and bringing the score 32 in their favor. The latter half of the match yielded strife for the Green team as it struggled to keep A&M away from the net. Aggie advances were unrelenting as they continued to march the ball toward the Bronc goal. The nail was thrust into the coffin 35 minutes into the second half when the Maroon team drove the ball into the net for the fourth time in the match up. The Broncs put one more goal into the opposing net to bring the score to 4-3; but the score came too late. In a six

minute-game of keep away, Texas A&M sealed their win on Bronc turf. “It was not the best game. Playing with 10 men on the field makes it very challenging,” said Schmidt. “Still we were able to hold them to a 4-3 score with a very concrete possibility of tying the game at the end. I’m disappointed with the outcome; a nail is never a happy situation [but] we have an opportunity now to make adjustments.” UTPA also posted a 3-2 victory at Rice University on Saturday. Playmakers in that match up included Juan Reynoso with two goals and senior midfielder Victor Gutierrez with one. “We were able to win and that makes me very happy,” said Schmidt. “We took a reduced squad with a few people who had not had a chance to play but they stacked up pretty strong. We were able to hold them back” The next game is scheduled at home Saturday against San Antonio College and Sunday at the University of Texas Austin. With the season winding down all the attention turns to qualifying for regional play. “In the past San Antonio has bailed out,” said Schmidt. If they forfeit we will only get two goals for that. We would much rather have them come down and beat them. Beating San Antonio by 7 goals would put us at the lead. It can be done.”

Onydia Garza/The Pan American MAD SCRAMBLE - (Left) Senior Juan Reynoso moves in for a header while senior Victor Gutierrez leaps over a Texas A&M player in Saturday’s first home loss. Reynoso’s three goals over the weekend bring his season total to 8.

WOMEN’S SOCCER CLUB

Lady Broncs drop back-to-back games over weekend Gomez’s three goals remain lone bright spot By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American Standing at midfield, business management junior Elena Moncivais looked for an outlet on both flanks, found none and with a swift stroke found junior forward Jessica Gomez. Gomez took the pass a good 10 yards ahead of the Texas State defense, took two dribble steps and gave the women’s Bronc soccer club its first goal in Saturday’s home game played at the intramural practice field. The problem was the visiting Lady Bobcats had already taken 4-0 lead and Gomez’s goal only pulled the women within three — the smallest margin of difference throughout the game. One minute later Gomez could have scored on an identical play, except this time her shot was wide left. “We had a lot of mistakes, three

own goals; so that’s what kind of screwed us over,” Gomez said. Thirty minutes into the first half and Texas State’s Angela Fulton scored a hat trick with a soft header in the box and gave the Lady Bobcats a 4-0 lead. Fulton added her fourth and final goal at the 44th minute mark for a 6-1 Texas State lead. While UTPA created several scoring opportunities, it was the defense that got outplayed throughout the game. The Lady Bobcats remained the aggressor in the second half and took advantage of their opportunities. The women managed almost as many shots on goal Saturday as the Lady Bobcats, 11 to 14, but it was State who capitalized on their opportunities. The lone bright spot for the women was Gomez’s play; she scored all of the Lady Broncs’ goals over the weekend including the lone one in a 10-1 loss at the University of Texas-San Antonio on Sunday afternoon, at the 84-minute mark. “It was exciting it was good, I felt excited, on top of the world,” said Gomez of her performance over the weekend. “The good thing is that we

have spirit.” Dealing with injuries, a shortage of players who could make the trip, and poor driving directions added to the team’s woes against UTSA. “The first half we kept it close at 3-

0, but in the second half, that’s when it all came down,” said sophomore right center Cynthia Sanchez. The two losses keep the women winless on the year at 0-3-1 with only two games remaining in Texas Collegiate

Soccer League Division II play. Up next the women will travel to Sam Houston State Saturday. They play their last home game of the year in a rematch against UTSA Sunday at the intramural practice field at 1 p.m.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American ON TARGET - Junior forward Jessica Gomez takes a shot at Texas State goal keeper Dani Denis. Gomez scored three goals in two games over the weekend.

October 11, 2007

Page 15 SPORTS

VOLLEYBALL

Women sweep Lady Islanders 3-0 in home debut

Lady Broncs claim first home game Tuesday By RAMIRO PAEZ The Pan American Whether it was revenge on their mind or simply just trying to step up their level of play in front of their first home crowd, the University of TexasPan American Lady Broncs volleyball team came away with a three-game sweep of the Lady Islanders from Corpus Christi in front of a packed Field House Tuesday night. The Lady Broncs defeated the Lady Islanders 30-28, 30-21, 30-27, recording a win in their home debut and exacting revenge from a Sept. 8 loss that went five games. UTPA improved to 814, while Corpus Christi fell to 4-14. “I’m very proud of the girls,” said Angela Hubbard, head coach of the Lady Broncs. “We prepared for this match all week in practice and they executed exactly what we said. One thing that we’ve been trying to establish into practice is passion and fire for the game

and we definitely saw that tonight. The girls took what we talked about, had a good time and played hard.” In the first match, the score stayed tight as both teams swapped points and the lead. With the score tied at nine, the Lady Islanders went on a 5-2 run, before UTPA came right back with a 7-0 run of their own. The Lady Broncs had their largest lead of the match at 27-21 when

the Lady Islanders went on a 7-1 streak to tie the game at 28. But the Green and Orange didn’t fold, scoring the last two points. The second match started in the same fashion as the previous one, with UTPA holding a one point lead at 7-6. The Lady Broncs then pulled away with a 9-0 stretch, which the Blue and Green never recovered from. The Lady

Islanders would come to within seven at 26-19, but UTPA shut the opportunity of a comeback going on a 4-2 run to take the match. “I think we did very well,” said Kellie Phillips, outside hitter for the Lady Broncs. “This is a team that we went to five with the last time we played them and it was kind of a struggle. I thought we did really well, especially in

Onydia Garza/The Pan American FIELD HOUSE CRAZIES - Kappa Sigma fraternity members and Unity Hall residents cheer after UTPA’s first home win.

the third game because we were behind, but we still had the intensity to beat them.” California native Deanna Schneyer led the Green and Orange with 12 kills and five blocks. Recording her sixth double-double of the season, Chelsea Blakely recorded 37 assists and 16 digs and Phillips added 12 kills along with eight digs. The third match showed the heart and fight that the Lady Broncs possess. With the team in front 10-6, a 7-2 run by the Coastal Bend team gave them the lead by one. The teams traded points and with the score tied at 21, the Lady Islanders pulled ahead by four and looked as though there would be extra matches. But UTPA avoided the deficit, responding with a 9-2 run, including scoring the final six, to take the game. The Lady Broncs were coming off a tough four-game setback to Utah Valley University on Oct. 5. UTPA had tied the game at one, before the Lady Wolverines claimed the final two sets. They will resume play in a doubleheader on Saturday in Birmingham, against the Panthers of BirminghamSouthern and Fisk University, before a three-game home stand starting Oct. 20.

Among the greats By ALEJANDRO DEL BARRIO The Pan American When records are broken it’s usually by a minuscule margin. A hundredth of a second in the 100-meter dash, or in Peyton Manning’s case, a single touchdown pass more than Dan Marino for the single-season touchdown mark. But for The University of Texas-Pan American junior setter Chelsea Blakely, she’s already broken volleyball career assists record just 13 matches into her third of four seasons as a Lady Bronc. With her record mark of 2,493 assists, set against Texas Southern on Sept. 15. Blakely will almost certainly have her record cemented in program history for years to come. “It has been crazy but I am glad all that hype was over,” Blakely said after UTPA’s first home win over rival Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Tuesday. “I have had some great hitters that have helped me get the record. Without them there is no assists record.” The former record holder at UTPA was Marie Velasquez, who held the mark for a decade and was not challenged until Blakely arrived at UTPA. The Houston junior needed only 458 assists coming into the season to break the career mark, but Blakely had no idea that the program record was well within reach. “I had no idea I was even close

until I came back to campus and saw my picture on the UTPA Web site,” Blakely added. “It was kind of cool being a part of something special like a career record. I had no idea it would be in reach for me when I got here, but like I said, it’s special.” The career assists record is now in hand and what the final mark will be remains to be seen. However, Blakely is also able to move her focus away from statistics and focus on a different record; wins and losses. “Things are great now with the coaching change,” Blakely said, after Angela Hubbard replaced nine-year veteran Dave Thorn this year. “The locker room is completely different, we fight for every point and coach doesn’t let us settle. We’re trying to have an even or winning season this year. We have some work to do, but we’re on the right path.” The record is just one of many accomplishments this season for Blakely, who has been selected to multiple all-tournament teams in 2007. She mentioned after a convincing home victory that she is just glad to be a part of UTPA history and had the chance to be honored in front of the home crowd. “I love Pan American,” said Blakely after Tuesday night’s three-game sweep of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. “I am glad I got to finally celebrate this moment here at home, and get a win for all my friends, family and supporters.”

Onydia Garza/The Pan American FOR THE RECORD - Chelsea Blakely, UTPA’s all-time assist leader, sets up freshman Danielle Reed for one of her six kills during Tuesday night’s victory over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. The Lady Broncs returned home after 21 road games.

Page 16

S P O RT S

October 11, 2007

THE PAN AMERICAN

CROSS COUNTRY

Izaguirre leads Lady Bronc pack By RAMIRO PAEZ The Pan American University of Texas-Pan American cross country runner Carolina Izaguirre has that little added ‘extra’ that can not be taught or coached. The 19-year-old health science major was raised in Brownsville and graduated from Hanna High School in 2006. Running since her elementary days, Izaguirre was active in high school, getting involved in soccer and track and field in addition to cross country. She received an athletic scholarship to join the UTPA cross country team and says it is what gives her the drive to work hard. She remains grateful for the opportunity she has received, after all not many former Valley athletes continue their playing days at Division I schools “Competition is everything,” said Izaguirre. “We all want to thrive and succeed. It is my only motive in propelling in my studies and training.”

Onydia Garza/The Pan American

In her last meet she finished ninth overall at the Islander Splash Invitational hosted by Texas A&MCorpus Christi on Sept. 28, with a time of 17:57—best for fourth all time in program history. Izaguirre’s top-10 finish paved the way for the rest of the women, who as a team finished fourth out of 10 teams in Corpus Christi, well ahead of Central Arkansas, Sam Houston State, Texas A&M-Kingsville, St. Mary’s University and Houston Baptist. However Izaguirre has been making noise in the UTPA cross country team since last year during the indoor season, when she won the University of Houston Sport All-Comers meet in the 3,000-meter race with a time of 10:54:64. Hugo Cervantes, head coach of the men’s and women’s cross country team, says Izaguirre possesses great qualities and has shown much discipline in her time here. “Izaguirre is a young, talented ath-

lete,” said Cervantes. “She doesn’t have much to say. I tell her what to do and she’ll go out and get it done. She goes and runs her heart out; can’t really ask for more.” The sophomore says running is a stress reliever that keeps her aware of where she is going. “Responsibility” and “persistence” she adds are her most important concepts. Adjusting to running long distance was a difficult process for her, but she found that with persistence, learning to get up early and run became simpler by the day. It’s a familiar story: athletes face challenges on their road to success. And the same can be said for non-athletes as well. Going from high school to college is a good example. Being away from her family has been a test of will for Izaguirre. She was raised in a very close-knit family with a rich Mexican cultural background. Though she has come to realize that changes happen, like moving to a different town to attend college, she believes difficulties should not get in the way of achieving goals. With the support of her family, teammates and coaches, Izaguirre has learned to train hard for every race and have faith in her ability as a runner. She says that her teammates are “unique” and “empowering” for her. Cervantes, as well, has been an “angel” with an inexplicable wisdom of running, guiding her

to the ideal training and teaching her to endure grueling workouts. “At this point in my life, it has been the most exhausting push in both my body and mind,” said Izaguirre. “The fact that I am in college and graduated from high school has been a rewarding accomplishment. Cervantes says he has high hopes for Izaguirre, expecting her to place in the top 20 at the regional race on Nov. 10; doing that could get her honors and possibly an opportunity to make it to nationals. “My biggest concern was her lack of experience,” Cervantes said. “It’s been hard for her to understand the concept of strategy racing, but after a few races and constant tutorial by me, she has really improved in that aspect of running. Once we combine her great talent and some racing experience, there is no saying how far she will go.” Once her run at UTPA is over, Izaguirre plans to attend medical or graduate school to continue her studies. Life’s tough lessons will always be things she will take into account as she looks toward the future. For now, Izaguirre said she does what she can to overcome, and doesn’t worry about the rest. “There are many lessons that life has taught me, but the most important one is that we must have faith in God and our self; as for the rest, let it figure out itself,” she said.

HOME GROWN - Sophomore Carolina Izaguirre’s ninth-place finish at the Islander Splash Invitational with a 17:57 time is good enough for fourth all-time at UTPA.

StatsAtAGlance

Carolina Izaguirre’s best finish of the year, at the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Splash Invitational

Number of wins the volleyball team has posted this season, two more than last year.

On Oct. 12 the men and women’s basketball teams will host Midnight Madness.

ShortSports TENNIS Ivan Avila reached the singles’ semifinals of the University of TexasSan Antonio on Saturday. While sophomore Brett Bernstein and UTPA rookie Marcus Dornauf lived up to their preseason billing. Bernstein who kept active on the court over the summer defeated Caleb Bulls from Texas Christian University 57, 6-4, and 7-5. However just like Avila, Bernstein fell to another UTSA foe, Adam Becker 6-0, 6-4 in the subsequent round. Dornauf cruised to a 6-3 and 7-5 victory over St. Edwards’ Nick Arnold. Dornauf’s short lived success was halted in the second round James Wilson of Texas Tech in a 6-3, 7-5 setback. Avila qualified past the first round of singles play by defeating Aime of Tyler Junior College, 6-4, 6-3 but lost to UTSA’s Robin Fernandes in the semis. In the first round of doubles action Avila and Nirvick Mohinta teamed up to hand Boris Barrios and Jacob Walley of St. Edwards a 9-7 defeat. In the doubles semis during the second day of play the UTPA combo lost to a tougher Monterrey Tech duo. The men resume play on Oct. 21 at the ITA Regionals hosted by the University of Texas while the women take the court on Oct. 18 at the ITA Regionals hosted by Texas Tech in Lubbock.