March 20, 2008 by UTRGV Student Media

Thursday March 20, 2008

59th Year No. 23

THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER

CAMPUS

NATIONAL

FESTIBA to begin Monday

Don’t ask, do repeal? Students, critics say military law spreads message of intolerance By BOBBY CERVANTES The Pan American The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy passed by President Bill Clinton in 1993 set standards for the military's view on homosexuality. Before the law’s existence, being homosexual, bisexual or transgender stopped participants in that lifestyle from serving. Its inception was considered an improvement for civil right advocates at the time, as it made moot the idea of sexual orientation as long as people did not reveal their preferences. But 15 years later, many people want a complete repeal of the law. The law requires that men and women in the United States military who reveal their homosexuality and/or engaged, or attempted to engage in homosexual conduct during service be immediately discharged. Recruiting officers or other military officials are barred from inquiring about an enlistee's sexual orientation or identity and cannot investigate it until the service member discloses it. At The University of Texas-Pan American, there is a grass-roots effort seeking to repeal the law. Alva Martinez, a sophomore anthropology major, said the United States military seems close-minded about

By SANDRA GONZALEZ

homosexuality. “It sounds to me like the military has a little problem with homosexuality, and if they do, then that's wrong,” she said. “I don't see the problem in letting gay men and women serve in the military.” Senior Elena Torres, whose father served in the military, explained that the law creates secondclass status for homosexual, bisexual, and transgender service members. “My dad was in the military and he would tell me that he would show my baby pictures to all his fellow soldiers,” said the mathematics major. “Why can't they [homosexuals] talk about their families and relationships when everyone else can? They shouldn't be held to different, more restrictive standards.” An estimated 12,000 servicemen and women have been discharged under the law, according to the Human Rights Campaign, a prominent gay rights advocacy group. Meanwhile, supporters of the ban advocate its effectiveness so far in handling homosexual conduct in the military, citing its neutrality on the issue. They note that the main reason for this stance by the armed forces has historically centered on morale, not

The Pan American While looking at the massive schedule of events for the Festival of Books and Arts, nowhere is it apparent that just four years ago the entire event was literally a single booth at Hispanic Engineering, Science and Technology Education Week. Since its very humble beginnings, the event - which begins Monday - has grown into a 6-day event, and Dahlia Guerra, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, couldn’t be happier. “It’s so exciting. I’ve just enjoyed FESTIBA so much,” she said. “It’s a dream to have “There is been able to bring need for attenall these opportubecause nities to the stu- tion this is a problem dents and our community.” we really need Guerra, who to address.” has spearheaded the project since -Dahlia Guerra its inception, said dean organizers have put an emphasis on literacy this year. “The literacy component is so important and the rates in the state and South Texas in general are not great,” she said. “There is a need for attention because this is a problem we really need

See LAW page 11

THIS WEEK

Ben Briones/The Pan American

See FESTIBA page 12

GOVERNMENT

NEWS Organization revives area with activities See Page 3

A&E Grant provides hope for aspiring artists See Page 8 & 9

SPORTS Lady Broncs fall short of tourney title See Page 16

UTPA partners in Homeland Security project Key players seek clarification on university’s role By J.R. ORTEGA The Pan American The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently named The University of Texas-Pan American as a partner university for a project that will research

different facets of border security. The only holdup is that UTPA is not quite sure what the work will entail. The project will create the Center of Excellence for Border Security and Immigration on campus. The university does know that it has been designated to head the research sector, and some professors already have propositions as to what they would like to study. On Tuesday, Van Reidhead, dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, went to Washington D.C. to meet with homeland security officials to

help clarify UTPA’s role in the project. Reidhead will lead interdisciplinary scientists in finding out more about a variety of topics such as immigration’s effects on the healthcare system, civil society and the economy. Reidhead said the purpose of the project is not to “grind an axe” with biased information, but to inform policy makers with accurate information so better decisions can be made about homeland security. “Our purpose is not as a policy center, it’s not an action center. It’s a

research center,” he said. “Its purpose is to understand immigration at its roots at best we can, so it informs policymakers and those that manage immigration so it provides them with better information.” Reidhead added the information the government and homeland security has is somewhat skewed in that it doesn’t paint an accurate picture of the Valley’s population of legal and illegal immigrants. “You can see it, their look at it, our policymakers voted to build a wall and

See SECURITY page 11

Page 2

O PINION

March 20, 2008

THE PAN AMERICAN

DEAR ABBY JR.

AS I SEE IT

Savethesedates

Select a side: Taking Loud music puts hearing, one for the team BY: RAMIRO PAEZ

think many would agree that this time of year in sports is the best there is. March Madness (the men’s NCAA tournament) kicks off tonight and the National Basketball Association is starting to wrap up its regular season with the riveting playoffs looming ahead. Yes, college football and the National Football League offer compelling storylines and games during the fall, but once the seasons are over, basketball is the real king. It might be because the college bowl games aren’t cutting it anymore and instead, people are screaming for a playoff system to be implemented. And in the NFL, the playoffs are like a teaser. You want them to last longer, but in an instant, they’re gone. I can’t argue that football will forever be my No. 1 sport to watch, but basketball just offers so much more in terms of entertainment. The other day I got on to ESPN.com and came across an article that an NBA analyst wrote. In it, he basically said that a lot of people build hype around March Madness but not even the exhilarating tournament will be a match for the NBA playoffs that will begin in mid-April. When reading the article, I had a though. All things considered, which do I like better? On one side we have college basketball. I have to admit that this is the first year I did not really partake in all the drama. I did watch games here and there and caught up with recaps, but in previous years I have been a more devoted fan. Just since the conference tournaments have I really watched the games,

MARCH 20, 2008 THE

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

which got me pumped for the tournament. The Cinderella team, the heartbreakers and the thrillers are all captivating to one’s attention. On the other side there are the NBA playoffs. This year the postseason will be like no other, especially in the Western Conference. It seems like every team in the West will be a legitimate contender to advance to the Finals. I can’t remember any other season where parity has taken over the league so thoroughly. So again, which is better? In college basketball, you have stars that have “the potential” to become great athletes in the NBA. In the league, they are stars. In college basketball, it’s a one-and-done deal while in the pros, a team has the opportunity to take a series to seven games. In college basketball, one Cinderella team emerges while in the NBA, the dominant teams usually parade over the capable darkhorses. The tournament will definitely offer its usual high-drama games but I think the NBA playoffs will be more interesting to tune in to. Even though the Eastern Conference will be dominated by two or three teams, the West’s first round series will defintely make up for it. The likes of Tim Duncan, Kobe Bryant and Lebron James can’t compare to the rising athletes in the NCAA. Despite which league is better, one thing is certain: all basketball fanatics will witness.

BY: ABBY MUNIZ

ear Abby Jr.: My boyfriend constantly embarrasses me with his loud music while we drive in public places. This is the last straw… how should I tell him? -Deaf in Edinburg Dear Deaf in Edinburg: The same thing has happened to me before, and as a pedestrian, it really makes me mad. It had been a long day and as I made my way to my car in the heat of the afternoon, an annoying noise quickly made me stop. A sleek, black sports car passed with its windows rolled down. All I could think about was turning on my air-conditioner on high when I got to my car. The reverberations of the car’s audio system playing “Gangsta Zone” by Daddy Yankee so annoyed me that I wanted to tell the guy to please turn it down. I thought to myself that maybe the vibrations the car was giving off would be enough to propel it down the street, no gas needed.

WELLNESS CENTER

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

Assistant News Editors Abigail Muniz...............abbymuniz@gmail.com J.R. Ortega.....................ortega.e.jr@gmail.com

A&E Editor Jeanette Perez.........fae_myst@yahoo.com

Designers Rick Gamez Juan Torres

Photography Editor Roxy Solis..................roxysolis34@yahoo.com Design Editor Roy Bazan........................rbazanzz@yahoo.com

I’m one to turn down my mp3 while in the company of strangers because I find it courteous. This guy obviously thought it would be nice to have everyone enjoy the tasteless tunes he was indulging himself in. More and more, I’m finding that people seem to feel it is okay to share more than their smoke exhaust as they cruise on by. I guess what I want to say is: turn down the music so pedestrians or passers-by don’t have to suffer along with you. Please save our ears from having to endure such loud noise just because you’re trying to show off the new 22s. Also, if I were you, I would tell my boyfriend that it is against the law, and that the policeman scowling at him from the corner could find a way to charge him with disruption of the peace. If all else fails, just hide his favorite CDs and/or iPod. Better yet, hand him the newspaper, turn to Page Two, point to this box, and say “read!”

Sound off (but not too loud): abbymuniz@gmail.com.

Newsinbrief

Which league do you think will be a better post season: college or NBA? Drop me a line: ramiropaez@aol.com.

Sports Co-Editors Greg Garza...............the_nataku@yahoo.com Ramiro Paez...................ramiropaez@aol.com

March

relationships at risk

The Wellness and Recreational Center will be offering a change in payment installment plan deduction for faculty and staff in the 2008-2009 academic school year. The payment plan calls for $250 a year, divided into 11 monthly payments

FESTIBA edition

Reporters and Photographers Alvaro Balderas Ana Villaurrutia Bobby Cervantes Leslie Estrada Onydia Garza Laura Garcia Teresa Torres Russen Vela

of $20.83. Membership term for 2008-2009 is from Sept. 1, 2008 to Aug. 31, 2009. Signing up for the payroll deduction at an earlier date does not allow admission into the WRSC until the startup date. The payment schedule will be slightly different for individuals who receive their paycheck over nine months. Adviser Dr. Greg Selber..........selberg@utpa.edu 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 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.

Opening Reception for "Lost Cultures: The Aztecs," in Visitors Center from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Distinguished Speaker Series presents author Denise Chavez in Fine Arts Auditorium at 7:30 p.m.

Free Mozart and Brahms music concert in Media Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

Screening of “Machuca: A Coming of Age in A Times of a Coup,” at 2 p.m. in Media Theatre

Distinguished Lecturer Series presents Sylvia M. Dominguez on Frank de la Teja in Media Theatre at 1:30 p.m. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Pan American accepts letters of 300 words or less 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. The Pan American cannot publish anonymous letters or submissions containing hate speech or gratuitous personal attacks. Please send all story ideas to thepanamerican@gmail.com. Individuals with disabilities wishing to acquire this publication in an alternative format or needing assistance to attend any event listed can contact The Pan American for more details.

March 20, 2008

N EWS

Page 3

THE PAN AMERICAN

COMMUNITY

AWARDS

Treading through deep waters Organization to revive area with outdoor activities By J.R. ORTEGA The Pan American In the small town of Granjeno, a mile of road dives down into a vast plain of tall grass leading to the Valley’s backyard, a forested area that holds back the serene waters that lap against the walls of the Rio Grande. This is a tableau that Los Caminos Del Rio (or, The Roads of the River) is not willing to relinquish. Aimed toward promoting environmental, cultural and physical awareness, the local organization educates guests about the area on Saturday biking and kayaking trips in Cottam Tract and Sunday paddling trips in the white waters of the Anzalduas Dam. However, the group has a much larger mission in mind; providing a “virtual wall” for the six-mile stretch of river from Anzaldua’s Dam to Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum World Birding Center. The “virtual wall” would be a recreational park helping preserve the wildlife in that area. According to Eric Ellman, executive director of Los Caminos Del Rio, having a recreational park he said will promote “legal activity while deferring

illegal activity.” The park, he hopes, would offer kayaking, paddling and biking, and will benefit both the wildlife and immigration. This six-mile stretch, Ellman said, is a crucial area and can provide much more than just a pretty sightseeing opportunity. “There is all ready a psychological wall that’s built that’s the problem, we’re trying to tear down the psychological wall,” Ellman said. “We’ve got all these people dying of diabetes and heart ailments because they’re not exercising and they say they’re not exercising because it’s too hot, well let’s get in the water.” People interested in the weekend activity meet at the Granjeno Public Facility, sign waivers and embark on a 2.9-mile bike ride into Cottam Tract, from where they then kayak down a 2mile stretch of the Rio Grande. Javi Gonzalez, a 23-year-old public relations major at The University of Texas-Pan American, has been serving as a tour guide since late last year. Gonzalez said tour guiding is fun enough that he does not consider it a job. “The only thing that makes this a job is that I have to wake up early in the morning,” Gonzalez said jokingly. Ellman mentioned the organization obtained permission from three federal agencies to bike and kayak in Cottam Tract and members only allowed doing it four times a month.

See OUTDOORS page 12

Student honored for research By BOBBY CERVANTES The Pan American

Roxy Solis/The Pan American NO MANʼS LAND - Tom Redenius (right), a Winter Texan, and Norma Gonzalez, a member of Los Caminos Del Rio, go down a 2.9-mile bike trail toward the banks of the Rio Grande.

In the Rio Grande Valley, cultural history plays a large role in the daily life of its residents. Everything from music, food and art are deeply embedded in the past of the region that for students like David Champion is compelling; powerful enough to have had him go far. The University of Texas-Pan American sophomore won the Inaugural Award, an award given by Humanities Texas that honors those who have shown substantial leadership in the humanities on the local, state and/or national level on Jan. 24. At the award ceremony, Champion met Gov. Rick Perry, R-Texas, and he said it was a brief but honorable experience. “It was a great opportunity to talk about our part of the world. It was nice to be able to shake his hand and let him know where I’m from,” said the Weslaco resident. Champion, a history major, admitted he does not just study the culture of the Valley because it is his home, but because its rich history can offer a perspective little seem to admire or recognize.

See CHAMPION page 12

BORDER WALL

IN MEMORIAM

Family remembers student soldier Barrier would create By ANA VILLAURRUTIA The Pan American Diana Farias dragged out a sign that was once used to welcome her son, Eric Farias, home from Iraq. She looked at her son’s boxes of belongings accumulated from his time in Iraq, boxes that now occupy the entire dining room. But she could only cry for her 24year-old son, who met his untimely death when he crashed on a motorcycle on Bale and Second Street in McAllen Feb. 18. “We were going to unpack his stuff, but God didn’t let that happen,” said Farias, who wore a bejeweled necklace with her son’s picture. Eric Farias had returned to his home in McAllen in October 2006 and soon

after started college, majoring in dietetics at The University of Texas-Pan American. Eric’s uncle, Antolin Garza, said Eric was always passionate about nutrition and physical fitness, working full-time as a personal trainer at Cornerstone Fitness Center and dreaming of opening his own nutrition complex. “It was unexpected, there was no sign of that happening to him,” said Garza. “He had a very good future ahead of him.” Diana Garza remembers her son being very patriotic and proud to serve his country. But when he volunteered during his junior year of high school, she had mixed feelings. “I was very proud of him when he joined the reserves, even though I want-

ed him to finish his education,” she said. He was deployed to Iraq in July 2002 and through his tours overseas advanced from corporal to sergeant, returning home from the war with only a scorpion sting and a ruptured appendix. Garza remembered his nephew’s life outside the Marines; he was a lover of sports, fishing and above all, motorcycles. “He was crazy about his bike, he felt the most free while driving,” his uncle related. “He never saw the danger in it. It was the same freedom he felt when he was in Iraq even though he was fighting for freedom at the time.” Today Eric leaves behind his mother, father Edmundo Farias, and an 18year-old brother Edgar Farias, also a

See FARIAS page 12

land woes for locals By ABBY MUNIZ The Pan American Pamela Rivas fears Easter might not be the same in years to come. The 2.4-acre plot her parents own in Los Ebanos has served as a place for family gatherings during holidays in the past, a place where they go fishing and hunting. The problem: part of the proposed Border Wall is supposed to run through the property. In a federal court hearing Monday, Rivas was among the property owners who testified that the government did not negotiate for access to survey the land her family owns, before suing. The landowners defended their property

rights against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security who is surveying land for the fence. Andy Goldfrank, attorney for the Justice Department, said letters were sent to land owners and government representatives had met with them. The letters indicated compensation for property damage. Goldfrank also said it was too early to speak in terms of how much money they would receive because they could not say if the government would want the land. “I fear that they are taking the property,” Rivas said. “I’ve got to put up a fight. The property has been in our

See WALL page 12

March 20, 2008

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March 20, 2008 NEWS

March 20, 2008

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ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

March 20, 2008

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THE PAN AMERICAN

I LOCAL ARTS

I MUSIC SCENE

UTPA honors women in history By ANDRIELLE FIGUEROA The Pan American Across the nation, the month of March is Women’s History Month. To honor women, the Student Union decided to help educate students on various female accomplishments by presenting the program, “Ain’t I a Woman,” at the Union Theater Tuesday evening. An actress — alongside a trio of musicians — performed to jazz-influenced music that was inspired by life in the Deep South. The performance portrayed the story of four AfricanAmerican women who have set goals and changed the rules of the suppression of females to accommodate their beliefs. Cindy Mata, assistant director for the Student Union, said she was optimistic that students would take something valuable from the performance. “We hope here at the Student Union that they will come out with a better understanding of what the event was created for,” said Mata, a UTPA graduate. “This month is Women’s History Month, so we hope students can see how women dealt with situations and came out on top.” The four women represented in the show included Sojourner Truth, best known for her “Ain’t I A Woman” speech at the Women’s Rights Convention in Akron Ohio in 1851; Zora

Neale Hurston, a well-known American folklorist and author; Clementine Hunter, the first woman to have her work exhibited in the New Orleans Museum of Art; and civil rights worker Fannie Lou Hamer. Junior public relations/adverstising major Krystal Banning felt the event would make a strong statement. “Presently it is all about prowomen and how we have gained respect and power. Especially right now that the country may soon be run by a woman,” said the 21-year-old San Juan native, referring to Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. “An event on the accomplishments of African-American women is something that students can learn from.” Before the show, Mata said she believed that students could relate to the performance. “We are South Texas. Some of our mothers and grandmothers have may have gone through the same situations,” she commented. “Even though the performance will be based on a different region, the females in our families may be able to relate to the stories of these four women.” On the contrary, junior sociology major Monique Davis observed that events like this don’t always elicit the planned reaction. “I love soulful stuff like that.

McAllen Incubator: home to musicians, artists By LESLIE ESTRADA The Pan American

Ben Briones/The Pan American RECOGNITION - The renowned Core Ensemble presented its nationally acclaimed touring production, “Ainʼt I a Woman” at the UTPA Student Union Theater Tuesday evening, honoring Womenʼs History month.

Unfortunately, I think some students will overlook the message and show no interest. I don’t think students here would like this type of performance, but I guess it depends on their interests,” said Davis, 20, of Edinburg. Junior broadcast student Eren Kirksey sees it is as ambition and hope for the school and its students. With the performance being about four strong African American women, it shows the students of any race goals that can be achieved through hard work. “Not just African Americans can

relate to the act,” suggested the 22-yearold. “People here who have families involved with struggles and regulations through the border as well can relate and use it as hope and inspiration that people can come from the bottom and make it on top.” “Ain’t I a Woman” is one of a series of arts events taking place at the Student Union Theater in the comingmonth. Hip hop and funk music group Recycled Percussion will hit the Union April 8 followed by the comedy show, Capitol Steps April 21.

Ben Briones/The Pan American HISTORICAL FIGURES - The musical, theatrical production “Ainʼt I a Woman,” paid homage to four important women who have left their mark in history including, Sojourner Truth, Zora Hurston, Clementine Hunter and Fannie Hamer. It was the first time the production was presented at UTPA.

As most people were getting ready to go out for drinks Saturday night, Omar Cuellar, drummer of Facing New York, prepared to perform for the public at “A night at the Incubator part 4.” “We are not expecting to become rock stars any time soon,” said Cuellar. “We definitely don’t come home with money in our pockets, but we enjoy performing and being part of events like this one.” Hosted by the McAllen Creative Incubator, the event offered the Rio Grande Valley residents the opportunity to enjoy art and music from local artists and bands. “We want to increase the attractiveness of our community’s culture,” said Luke Salas, organizer of the event. “We are showcasing art work, visualizations and music. We want to show how much talent we have in the Valley.” Salas, who put the event together for the fourth time, said that these types of events give people the opportunity to do something out of the ordinary. “Sadly, we don’t have a lot of culture geared towards the arts down here,” he said. “This is an opportunity for young people to come out and support the local bands and to see what local artists have to offer.” University of Texas-Pan American junior biology major Jennifer Cavazos said that attending the event was more fun than she expected. “I was very surprised at how much fun I had,” she said. “A friend invited me and I ended up going because I had nothing to do that night, but I don’t regret it since it was very interesting and cultureenriching.” Cavazos, who was not aware of this event, said that more advertising would benefit everyone. “I didn’t know that there were events like this one taking place in our area,” she said. “I actually found out through a friend who heard someone

See VENUE page 10

March 20, 2008

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March 20, 2008

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

MAC Grant to help artists and art organizations in Valley By RUSSEN VELA The Pan American

t’s often hard for aspiring artists to catch a break. Luckily for them, the McAllen Arts Council and Chamber of Commerce is offering up-and-coming creators a grant which will help them achieve dreams. Rita Perera, director of cultural arts with the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, was enthusiastic about the opportunity “McAllen Arts Grants is our funding program for arts activities that benefit people in McAllen,” Perera said. “It also helps artists and arts organizations from McAllen to carry out their work.” The London native, who has worked at the Chamber for two and half years, pointed out that the arts grant funding program began in 2002. Since then, Chamber Arts Council has awarded over $40,000 to 42 individual artists/art organizations in the region. “Our grants are for individuals, arts organizations and other people who use the arts in their work,” she explained. The overall goal of the grant is to aid in shaping an arts sector committed to delivering excellent art to the widest range of people, and one empowered to take artistic risks. Sophomore art major Lisa Perez was

thrilled about the grant when she heard about it on the radio, and decided to investigate. “I live in McAllen, and I am an aspiring artist. This grant could have not come at a better time,” Perez said. “I researched more about it, and it turns out they are offering a lot of money. This could totally help me achieve my dream.” Grants to individuals and organizations normally range from $200 up to $1,000, but $25,000 could be awarded for a complex visual-arts project. Kristina Canales, a freshman graphic design major, also took an interest in the funding. “I found this out from one of my friends and it is so cool,” said the McAllen native. “I just find it weird that only McAllen is doing this, and not Edinburg or anywhere else. There are so many artists in the Valley, we need help to get our dreams become a reality.” Truly, McAllen has thus far been the only city offering such an opportunity. “It has not been brought to my attention, that another organization has offered such a grant funding program in this area,” said Perera. “With the support of The McAllen Chamber of Commerce, the City of McAllen and the Texas Commission on the Arts, we have been fortunate to increase the amount of money available to $35,000.”

UTPA Art Professor Marcus C. Farris, praised the grant if anyone one including students lived in McAllen. “If you are an artist in McAllen it seems to be a great opportunity. Any time an artist has an opportunity to be successful and see their creations come to life is a great deal,” the Texas native said. Farris who has been teaching in the Art department for two years said he would encourage his students who live in McAllen to take up the chance for the grant. He noted that it is a great way to get their head start in a career as an artist. “As an artist this type of grant could be used to create a body of work and promote that body of work,” Farris said. “There are so many practical ways an artist could use this type of grant.” Farris also agrees with Canales’s opinion that more cities should offer grants like MAC grant. “It would be great if an artist such as myself had the opportunity to apply for this type of grant,” said Farris. Many like Farris would indeed benefit if their respectable city would offer them one. The grant invites many individual artists and organizations based in McAllen for the grant. An application package may be downloaded at www.mcallenartscouncil.com.

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March 20, 2008

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

MAC Grant to help artists and art organizations in Valley By RUSSEN VELA The Pan American

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March 20, 2008 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

I MOVIE REVIEW

Rivalry, love in Other Boleyn Girl By RUSSEN VELA The Pan American Based on the best-selling historical fiction novel by Philipa Gregory, and directed by Emmy winner Justin Chadwick, The Other Boleyn Girl sets a sumptuous and sensual tale of intrigue, romance and betrayal, against the backdrop of a defining moment in European history. Two beautiful sisters, Anne and Mary Boleyn, driven by their family’s blind ambition, compete for the love of the handsome and passionate King Henry VIII. What makes The Other Boleyn Girl unique is that we get to see a new perspective on Anne and the court through her sister Mary’s eyes. What viewers see in this film may leave them wondering if some of the plot is real, but just be assured: the film is purely fiction, just like the novel. Oscar-nominated writer Peter Morgan (The Queen, The Last King of Scotland) adapted the novel with great success. Fans of the book may be a bit disappointed, since the film does leave some things out, but it definitely captures the essence of the story. Morgan showcases the claustrophobic English court to such extent that you can’t help

but feel for the characters, even when they are doing naughty things to each other. Historians have blasted Gregory’s novel saying that Anne was surely no villain and that it was indeed Mary who was the eldest instead of Anne. Gregory has stated many times that the book is completely fiction and meant to be a fun read, not a boring autobiography. Historical accuracy aside, however, the film triumphs with good performances from the three main leads along with fine writing. Natalie Portman (Closer, V for Vendetta) shines as Anne Boleyn. She completely steals the show from Mary and Henry, literally smoldering in her pursuit of Henry without ever taking her clothes off. Scarlett Johansson (Match Point, Lost in Translation) brings a warmth and tenderness to the role. The minute she appears onscreen you just want to give her a big hug and tell her everything will be OK. She is sweet and innocent so when she is left heartbroken viewers feel her pain and want to hurt those who have hurt her. Eric Bana brings a multi-dimensional character in his portrayal of

Henry. When Henry is with Mary he is a soft and tender monarch who only wants to be loved for himself and not his title. Bana truly shines when he and Scarlett play off each other. When Henry becomes obsessed with Anne, Bana’s work turns almost brutal and manicdepressive. He will stop at nothing to have Anne and when we see her toy with him, he becomes so frustrated that he does the unthinkable and leave some audience members disturbed. Amy Escamilla, a junior communication disorders major, saw the film over

the weekend was surprised that she enjoyed it. “I would recommend this movie to anyone,” Escamilla said. “It’s filled with drama and intrigue and it almost felt like a Jerry Springer episode.” Indeed the film does have its drama, but it’s great drama. Sure, some of it may be historically inaccurate, but if you want a real bio film about Anne Boleyn rent Anne of the Thousand Days, which historians believe is a true portrayal of the doomed queen of Henry VIII.

Sony Pictures LOVE AND HATE - In The Other Boleyn Girl, Natalie Portman (right) and Scarlett Johansson play sisters vying for the affection of King Henry VIII. The movie tells the story of one of historyʼs greatest known drama.

VENUE continued from page 7 talking about it in one of her classes. I think that more advertising is necessary, people have to know that they have options to have fun other than just the local bars and clubs.” Junior marketing major Lucas Saenz, said that events like this are always good exposure for local talent. “I think it is great that the city of McAllen is doing something like this to benefit locals,” said Saenz. Saenz, who is the lead singer of a band looks forward to taking the state in the future. “Maybe next time people will have the opportunity to hear our music,” said Sae, singer and guitarist for a band. Aside from the different art exhibits, “A night at the Incubator Part 4” featured bands like Facing New York, Incohero, Birdstreets, Pigsney Charmer, The Mountain View and Jones Town Tragedy. Salas said that similar events will be taking place in the future. “We still do not have an exact date, but we will be making announcements so that people can make plans to attend and participate,” he said. For more information log on to www.mcallenart.com

March 20, 2008

Page 11 NEWS

LAW continued from page 1 morality. But the military might be swimming against the tide. In March 2006, the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press conducted a poll and found that there is “significantly broader support for [an] inclusive policy” regarding homosexuality in the military. The study reported that in 1994, 52 percent of Americans supported allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly in the military, while in 2006, 60 percent were in favor, with 32 percent opposed to the idea. However, not even a change in public opinion will stop Elisa Medrano, a nursing major from supporting the policy.

“If gays aren't allowed to speak or engage in gay actions, then it shows that the military is neutral on the issue,” said the Harlingen nursing major. “I think if it's an organization with the task of protecting all of us, like the military, it's a definite plus that it be a complete non-issue.” She added that by keeping the ban, there is no chance that controversy may arise. Other UTPA students who favor the policy have their reasons, like Alejandro Barrera, a junior education major that feels that by repealing the law, a special privilege to a certain group of servicemen would be created.

“If race, gender, and all that other stuff aren't allowed to stop someone from serving, then being gay should not,” he said. “I support the policy because we shouldn't have one group being favored by a special law.” IN THE MEDIA The hot-button issue has even made its way into many of the televised debates and open forums between candidates seeking the U.S. presidency this November. Current Republican frontrunner Sen. John McCain has publicly stated his support for Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,

saying, “it's logical to leave this issue alone.” At an open forum in New York, the Arizona senator said that every military leader he has questioned about a possible repeal says the current policy is working. Both leading Democratic candidates however, stated their desire to repeal the law, citing a 2005 Government Accountability Office report that found the policy had spurred a large decrease in the number of qualified professionals in critical areas, such as language translation skills. In a survey distributed to the various campaigns by the Human Rights

Campaign, Sen. Hillary Clinton, DNew York, said she was “concerned that the military is discharging people with critical skills – including desperately needed Arabic language skills. This is a matter of national security and I will fix it.” Sen. Barack Obama, D-Illinois, is in favor of a full repeal. “I believe that we need to repeal the ‘Don't Ask, Don't Tell’ policy,” he wrote in survey answers. “The key test for military service should be patriotism, a sense of duty, and a willingness to serve; we also have evidence that ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ is not working.”

researchers. “They [researchers] are not getting their opinions; they’re just getting people’s stories.” Richardson, who heads the Borderlife Research Project at UTPA, has for the past 30 years gathered crucial information and stories about the lives of immigrants in the United States, information he said could prove helpful to the homeland security project. “We involve students in research and because they lived in the communities of the people they interviewed, they were able to get really good information

that an outsider would have never been able to get,” he said. “We could produce a portrait of people living here undocumented, working as maids or gardeners, information that officials may not be able to get but students - because of their connections - can get.” Since research about such subjects often involves a look at illegal activity, Richardson’s prime concern has always been the protection of student researchers and subjects. He added that regarding information gathered about immigration, it’s crucial that none of the

data be traced back to the researcher. Along with forefront school The University of Arizona, UTPA is among 12 others that will be participating in the partnership. The University of Texas-El Paso will be covering education, while Arizona will be the main headquarters for overall work. According to Reidhead, a group of selected faculty interested in border security had been working on obtaining the partnership for more than a year when in late February, they got word of UTPA’s acceptance into the project.

SECURITY continued from page 1 have directed homeland security to build a wall, but how many of us in the Valley believe a wall will be a mistake?” Reidhead asked. “The reason we feel that way is that by living here, we understand through our daily lives, we experience it. We see it very differently than citizens of this country farther north see it.” Since the university is closely tied to Mexico, fear of bias comes into play. However, Chad Richardson, a long-time university sociology professor, said that researchers are relatively good about not letting their views get in the way of the

true story. I “ T h e y “ We ’ v e had over [researchers] are 10,000 inter- not getting their views. When opinions; they’re you have that just getting peomany people, ple’s stories” you’re going to get people from -Chad Richardson all different Sociology professor points of view, all different points of walks life,” he explained about his ongoing work, which makes ample use of students as

March 20, 2008

Page 12 NEWS

WALL

OUTDOORS continued from page 3 He added that obtaining permission was not difficult because it was done through a long-time friend; but now it’s time to go a step further and have a park. Ranee Vento, Los Caminos Del Rio office manager and mother of five, has been taking her children out on the trips since December and added that the turnout has been slow but is growing slightly. “A lot of people don’t really realize what we’re offering” she said. “A lot of peoples’ perception when you tell them you’re going on the river is, ‘Are there Mexicans? Are there shootouts? Do you see people crossing drugs? Do you see people crossing?’ A lot of people are very uneducated about what we do and what we have here in the Valley.” She added that her kids enjoy outdoor activities and that her niece even woke up early once she heard they were going kayaking. “We had to hunt in the Hill Country to do things like this, and right here it’s in our backyard and we just never take advantage of it,” she said.

continued from page 3

Roxy Solis/The Pan American LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT - Nikki Rowe High School students Melissa Cruz and David Cortez go down calm, murky waters of the Rio Grande. Interested patrons must sign a waiver before participating in the weekend outdoor activities.

Tourists of all ages seem to enjoy the activities, including Andres Flores, a 9-year-old from Tony Rico Elementary in Weslaco. “The trail lets me get exercise in my legs and going down the hill is fun,” Flores said. Flores said he loves to go to kayak-

ing and depending on where he is on the river, will stand on a rock and watch the water rush below him. “Sometimes I get tired and people pass me when I go down the hill,” he said. “But kayaking is still the best part.” Ellman said he does not expect the

FESTIBA

CHAMPION continued from page 3 “I research and document elements of culture along the border, with a focus on the Rio Grande Valley region, but also move out to encompass northeastern Mexico,” Champion explained. “My primary interest of focus is the vaquero – or ranching – culture, which includes food, music, artisanship.” Through Champion’s research and presentations, he wants to make the history of the Valley and its people relevant to the lives of students, teachers and parents. After conducting research, Champion takes his knowledge to local schools and colleges from Brownsville to McAllen, teaching students the lifestyle of the region’s people. He has visited schools in La Joya, Weslaco, San Benito and Brownsville among others. Ideally, he said it is better to present to third graders on up because they can

understand his presentations and appreciate them. “What I like to do, with (a group of friends) is live cooking demonstrations, the way vaqueros used to cook, we have our own chuck wagon,” Champion said. The chuck wagon they use is over a hundred years old. It is used to showcase how cowboys cooked in the late 1800s. “We actually use it. It’s a nice prop,” he said. “It gives people a chance to see a chuck wagon up close.” They stress how culture and identity play off of each other and how even language and music, tie in together. “I would take musicians into the classroom, and we would present on the history of the music, the different rhythms, how the instruments got here,” he said. Local musicians such as Roberto Pulido have made it into his lessons.

Dagoberto Ramirez, a long-time friend and social studies coordinator for the La Joya Independent School District, said he nominated Champion because he is a storyteller who knows how to relate to the students. “I know him for introducing culture. Whether its music, food, language… all those things about our culture he has helped introduce to our students,” Ramirez said. Champion went on to add that there is a way to teach students while keeping them interested and keeping the subject alive. “In some cases, common classroom teachings may or may not have any relationship,” he said. “So, what I try to do is say, ‘Well, here is an alternative way to teach, that engages students, that engages their home life – that bridges home life and school – and you can still teach content.’”

FARIAS continued from page 3 UTPA student. “They [Eric and Edgar] had a sense of brotherly attitude for advice or help,” said Garza. “he [Edgar] is holding on pretty well but it might affect him soon.” Though Eric had attended UTPA briefly, he left an impression on Judith Guetzow, a medical terminology professor. “As soon as I heard, when I was listening to the news, ‘UTPA student was wearing a helmet,’ I turned to my husband and said,

‘That was my student,’” said Guetzow, remembering how Eric always brought his helmet to class. She was sad to hear of his death and remembers him today as a focused and proud student. “You could tell he had a goal and he was going to follow it,” Guetzow stressed. President Blandina Cardenas was also sad to hear of Farias’ passing and sent her regards to the Farias family. “I first heard about Eric’s

entire Rio Grande to become a wildlife recreational park, but added that important portions of the river can be utilized. “So maybe you have to build a wall elsewhere where you don’t have this potential for bringing in tourists,” Elleman said. “But here, let’s not lose this, because we just found this.”

accident and death from Dr. Bruce Reed early on the morning of the 19th of February,” Cardenas said. “I have thought about him and his family every day since. Every time I see someone on a motorcycle, I think about Eric.” Garza said though he will miss his nephew, he believed Eric was already very accomplished, saying, “It was almost like he had a sense that today was going to be his last, so he lived his life to the fullest, he had a happy life.”

continued from page 1 to address.” More than 3 million Texans are “functionally illiterate,” and the state is ranked 47th out of the 50 states in reading, Congressman Ruben Hinojosa said at a FESTIBA For a list of press conference FESTIBA week last month. “Good read- highlights, see ing skills can page 2. Full list affect one’s eco- available at nomic bracket, www.utpa.edu future career and so many other levels,” said Guerra, an Edinburg native. During the week, administrators from The University of Texas-Pan American and nine authors will visit local elementary schools to read stories to students as part of co-sponsor Texas Book Festival’s Reading Rockstars program.

family for generations.” Rivas said she had “a lot of little questions” that were not addressed before the government filed suit under eminent domain. “I just had concerns because they needed to be there for 12 months,” she said. “How many people? What kind of equipment [were they going to use]? To what extent? What if somebody got hurt?” She said she simply wanted to know what was going to be done on the land, stressing that officials were “very vague.” Legal action on behalf of the government had already taken place before temporary access to the land for $100 became a negotiation. “To me, it was a lack of communication on their part,” Rivas said. She told her parents to get contact information so that she could handle the situation. When they did, she finally met up with government officials one day during her lunch hour, but she did not sign any of the documents they gave her. Victor Rivas, a rehabilitative studies major at The University of TexasPan American and son of Pamela Rivas, said that he remembers the events that led to the conflict. “It really hit us hard when a Border Patrol agent and engineer came to my grandparents’ house,” said Rivas, an Edinburg resident. “They wanted my grandpa to sign the waivers.” He noted that the individuals used jargon his grandparents did not understand. According to Victor Rivas, they only provided “bits of information.” Because his family is being directly affected by the Wall proceedings, he encouraged locals to get involved. “We need to start talking to politicians,” he said. “There are not many movers and shakers out in the open for the cause.” Defendants present at the intermittent hearings are being represented by Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid, a nonprofit organization providing legal services to low-income and disadvantaged clients. This year, the Justice Department has sued over 50 landowners in Texas.

Page 13

March 20, 2008 SPORTS

BASEBALL

Baseball Line Scor

UTSA drops UTPA in tourney By PEDRO PEREZ IV The Pan American The news was great and not so great as the University of Texas PanAmerican’s baseball team traveled to the San Antonio this weekend for the Bird Bath Tournament. The Broncs defeated nationally ranked Notre Dame Sunday, but suffered a doubleheader defeat at the hands of the Roadrunners of UTSA Tuesday. NOTRE DAME Against the Fighting Irish, UTPA finally got the offense rhythm in sync in the final three innings after its opponents held a 7-0 lead heading into the seventh inning. “It was a great comeback and we’ve been doing this all year long,” Coach Willie Gawlik said. “We’ve been five, six, seven runs behind and the team has been responding every time.” The Irish opened the fifth with a home run by Ross Brezovsky and

increased their lead to 7-0. Then, the Broncs started their rally. In the top of the seventh, senior Joe Gutierrez doubled to left field to drive in catcher Nick Spears. Two batters later, Miami native Roly Gonzalez would single to left field bringing in Gutierrez. After the Irish changed pitchers for the second time in the inning, Bonham Hough hit a sac fly that brought in Jeremy Johnson to make the score 3-0. The Broncs would add three more runs in the sixth and seventh innings, and one in the ninth to close a remarkable comeback. Gonzalez, Mendoza and Johnson finished the game 3 for 5 each while freshman Corpus Christi native David De Leon received his first collegiate win. UTSA The Green and Orange would not repeat the same success Tuesday as the Roadrunners swept the doubleheader, 4-1 and 16-4. In the opening game, UTPA’s Joey

TENNIS

During Spring Break, The University of Texas-Pan American women’s tennis program recorded a 4-1 record, with a 3-0 mark at the Orville Cox Center. The Lady Broncs improved their overall record to 12-6 with their 5-2 win against the University of Texas-San Antonio Sunday, giving them the second most wins in UTPA women’s tennis history. In addition, the Green and Orange had never defeated UTSA in a match. “UTSA is a really strong team,” said Canada native Meagan Bedeau. “They came out and fought and they were really hard-core straight to the bone to the end; no one gave up and everyone gave their all.” Senior Silke Buksik is one doubles victory away from ranking third in

Games

R H E

UTSA 16, Texas-Pan American 4; March 18 Texas-Pan American UTSA

000 200 002 - 4 9 2 510 200 71X - 16 20 3

UTSA 4, Texas-Pan American 1; March 18 Texas-Pan American UTSA

000 001 000 - 1 4 2 002 001 01X - 4 7 1

Texas-Pan American 10, Notre Dame 8; March 16 Texas-Pan American Notre Dame

000 000 631 - 10 18 1 000 160 010 - 8 12 0

Southern Illinois 16, Texas-Pan American 8; March 14 Texas-Pan American 000 431 000 - 8 11 3 Southern Illinois 016 015 21X - 16 13 1 Texas-Pan American 12, Sam Houston 6; March 9 Texas-Pan American 105 001 401 - 12 10 1 Sam Houston State 000 022 020 - 6 11 2 Texas-Pan American 6, Saint Louis 1; March 8 Saint Louis Texas-Pan American

000 010 000 - 1 9 1 310 000 11X - 6 10 0

South Dakota State 11, Texas-Pan American 10; March 7 South Dakota State 430 012 010 - 11 14 2 Texas-Pan American 301 003 003 - 10 16 1 Sam Houston State 12, Texas-Pan American 8; March 6 Texas-Pan American 011 000 060 - 8 12 2 Sam Houston State 303 400 02X - 12 19 0

TRACK AND FIELD

Lady Broncs maintain undefeated home streak By SAVANNAH S. MARTINEZ The Pan American

Mendoza cut a 2-0 lead in half by scoring in the top of the sixth off a single to right by outfielder Tim Tefft. After a run in the bottom of the sixth, the Roadrunners added their final score at the bottom of the eighth off a throwing error. Edinburg native Philip Rodriguez (0-1) received the loss for the Broncs. UTPA continued to struggle in the final game of the tournament. The hosts of the tournament came out swinging in the first inning, scoring five runs off of senior Cody Cisper to make a commanding lead. UTPA closed the gap when Gutierrez scored on a throwing error by the second baseman, while Hough made the score 6-2 off of a wild pitch. The Roadrunners would go on a 10-run rally before the Broncs got an opportunity to get on the board in the top of the ninth. UTPA will resume action with a home stand at Edinburg Baseball Stadium, beginning at 5 p.m. today against Houston Baptist (11-10).

school history with teammate Bedeau. Buksik is also ranked fourth overall for most singles wins in a single season. The Germany native captured a clean sweep of her single’s matches in all three home games, while Bedeau claimed two. “This was a real team effort,” said men’s and women’s tennis coach Robert Hubbard. “I am proud of all the girls; they all played really well. These girls have improved significantly since last year and now they are sitting on 11 and 6 (Saturday’s victory over UTEP) and arguably the best team in the history of the women’s program here.” The women look to keep their momentum rolling when they host Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and New Mexico State Friday and Saturday, respectively. The men dropped their overall record to 5-7 with a loss to 65th-ranked SMU and will host the University of TexasArlington Saturday.

Arkansas meets no match for high-jumper Littleton By PEDRO PEREZ IV The Pan American After placing first in the Arkansas Last Chance Meet March 7, senior highjumper Will Littleton became a threetime All-American Saturday at the NCAA Indoor Championships for his fifth-place finish in Fayetteville, Ark. “Will went out there and performed pretty well this weekend, and I was happy with his performance,” said University of Texas-Pan American track coach Dennis Darling. Cuero native Littleton cleared 702.25 on his third attempt, his best jump so far in Division I. He has been one of the program’s stars since transferring from Abilene Christian. Meanwhile, the men and women recorded some top finishes at the Texas State Open Friday. Houston native Vanessa Brown

was successful in the 400-meter dash, placing first with a time of 57.07, while in the 100-meter hurdles, senior Sabrina Montalvo of Rio Grande City finished third with a time of 14.73. Cross-country standout Carolina Izaguirre received second-place laurels in the 3,000-meter run with a time of 10:16.97. In field event competition, Brownsville native Stephanie Perez claimed first in the discus with a throw of 155-04. On the men’s side, Pharr native J.J. Hernandez placed first with a time of 9:15.43 in the 3,000-meter steeplechase and junior Ruben Cantu finished second for his time of 22.30 in the 200-meter dash. Newcomer Jameson Strahon clocked in a time of 49.12 en route to a third-place finish in the quarter. The teams will resume competition tomorrow at the Texas Southern University Relays in Houston.

March 20, 2008

Page 14 SPORTS

March 20, 2008

Page 15 SPORTS

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Schuberth, Stoll help regain momentum UTPA finishes with four-game improvement By RAMIRO PAEZ The Pan American From the newly acquired pep band to those fanatical Hoop Heads to the road warrior mentality, the 2007-2008 season was filled with a wild ride of emotions for The University of TexasPan American men’s basketball team. The Broncs entered the campaign with high expectations after secondyear head coach Tom Schuberth turned the program around last year. The Illinois native helped the ballclub amend a dismal 7-24 mark in 2005 into a seven-game improvement the following year. And with six seniors returning to lead a young, talented team, anything short of a 14-win year would have been a disappointment for Schuberth. In September, ESPN.com’s preseason Shootaround segment featured the Green and Orange in the Independent preview as a team that had the ingredients, with experience and

coaching continuity, to concoct a winning season. The Broncs definitely received the message. UTPA concluded the year winning 11 of its last 14 matchups en route to an 18-13 mark, the top performance in the Independent standings. Schuberth may have not reached his 20-win goal, but the season’s success led him to the NCAA Division I All-Independent Coach of the Year award, while six Bronc players received All-Independent team honors. “We had a great year considering the circumstances involving injuries and eligibilities,” Schuberth said. “I think our seniors provided wonderful leadership. The fact that we were the No. 1 Independent with an 18-13 record and only having 10 home games, there were a lot of accomplishments that I think exceeded people’s expectations.” After the departure of six players from 2006, including center Colin Lien who averaged 12.0 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, the Broncs were left scrambling for offensive production in 2007. Lien and leading-scorer Brian Burrell (15.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game) were the only two players

who averaged double-digit figures, but the team didn’t anticipate the number of impact players that would rise up. Michigan native Paul Stoll, a player who struggled through various injuries, had a phenomenal season for the Broncs as he not only led the team with 7.2 assists per game but tied for second in the nation with 224 assists. Earlier in the season, Stoll suffered a broken nose and foot and was uncertain if he could help his team the way he wanted to, but he decided to make a furious comeback. “The hardest part was getting use to the pain,” Stoll said. “One day I would feel terrible and then next I would feel great. I just felt like if I could take the pain. I love these guys and I figured I would be letting them down if I didn’t play.” Stoll joined Schuberth in his first year as a transfer from Lansing (Mich.) Community College. Teams certainly felt his wrath as the senior guard turned the up the tempo in the second half of the season and made opponents pay with his swift, aggressive style of play. On Feb. 12, he recorded a careerhigh 14 assists against Cal StateBakersfield and dramatically improved his point average from 7.8 in 2006 to a team-high 14.9 this season. Stoll was featured on ESPN’s Around the Rim for his 37-point, nine-assist, eightrebound performance Jan. 22 against Houston Baptist University. “We had great team chemistry and that was a huge part of our success as a team,” Stoll said. “Everybody on our team had one goal day in and day out: to win every game we played.” Forward Zach Trader, with his Tim Duncan-like demeanor, quietly finished as the second-leading scorer at 13.9 points, a six-point improvement from a

uring the 2006-2007 season, head coach Tom Schuberth took over the helm of the Broncs. He improved their record and achieved a winning season for the first time since former head coach Bob Hoffman did it in the 2001-2002 season.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American TRUE LEADER - Coach Tom Schuberth led the Broncs to an 18-13 record in 2007 en route to earning the All-Independent Coach of the Year award. The Illinois native holds a .533 winning percentage in his two season with UTPA.

year ago, and 5.9 rebounds per game. With 42 percent of the offensive departed from his first run, Schuberth signed five players to national letters of intent in the summer to help the Broncs regain their offensive swagger. The inside presence of sophomore forward Nathan Hawkins, nephew of San Antonio Spurs Hall of Famer George “The Iceman” Gervin, immediately impacted the starting lineup as he started all but one game and finished his first year scoring 10.6 points and collecting 3.9 rebounds per game. Opponents struggled to contain Hawkins’ big-man exterior as he recorded a career-best 23 points Jan. 16 against Huston-Tillotson. Newcomer Emmanuel Jones, a transfer from Riverside Community College, almost broke the double-digit barrier with 9.3 points in 22 games played. The only newly-recruited player who didn’t see action in a Bronc uniform this year was Adinson Mosquera.

The 6-9 Colombian was ruled ineligible by the UTPA athletic department after initially being declared eligible. Schuberth says there has been a lot of uncertainty on the question of his status, and the program is still awaiting official word from the NCAA on his approval to play. Pending Mosquera’s circumstances, seven returning players will look to help UTPA rebuild after the team waived farewell to six seniors. With one player (guard Jason Jensen of Madison Area Technical College) already signed for the 2008-2009 season, Schuberth feels optimistic on the new-look Broncs for next year. “We would like to increase our win totals each year and also continue to maintain in being the best Independent in the country,” Schuberth said. “One of these days we’ll be walking and hopefully dancing. That’s our ultimate goal: to play in a postseason tournament.”

Players Leaving

Team Honors

Number 33 5 1 15 4 32

Player Ryan Buck Brian Burrell Danny Puente Dexter Shankle Paul Stoll Zach Trader

Position Forward Guard Guard Guard Guard Forward

Players Returning Number 11 2 10 20 24 40 12

Player Damon Franklin Nathan Hawkins Emmanuel Jones Steve Silva Ben Smith Jacob Trader Nick Weiermiller

Position Guard Forward Forward Guard Guard Center Guard

All-Independent Coach of the Year: Tom Schuberth First Team All-Independent: Paul Stoll Sceond Team All-Independent: Zach Trader All-Independent Newcomer Team: Nathan Hawkins Independent Accolade: Brian Burrell Dexter Shankle Emmanuel Jones

Page 16

S P O RT S

March 20, 2008

THE PAN AMERICAN

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

By RAMIRO PAEZ The Pan American When the final buzzer sounded on the last game of the 2008 National Independent Tournament, The University of Texas-Pan American women’s basketball team looked up at the scoreboard and didn’t know what to feel. The women were not playing for the tournament title but they knew they could have easily advanced to the championship game if it hadn’t been for costly secondhalf turnovers against the New Jersey Institute of Technology on Day 2. Instead, the tourney hosts watched the No. 2 seed Florida Gulf Coast Eagles and claim the crown with a 64-54 victory over Cal State-Bakersfield. UTPA ended its season at 11-18 and waved goodbye to four seniors, including leading-scorer LeKeisha Gray. TOURNEY ROLLERCOASTER The Lady Broncs couldn’t have asked for a better way to open the tournament March 6 when they upset the No. 1 seed Utah Valley State Wolverines, avenging an 18-point loss Feb. 9. But the following day, the Green and Orange saw an eight-point secondhalf lead evaporate at the hands of the Lady Highlanders, who bumped them from the championship game. And in their final matchup of the season, Chicago State handed the women a five-point setback.

“It’s been a great season,” said women’s coach DeAnn Craft. “They’re great kids. We have a lot to look forward to next year with our signing group that we have. This wasn’t the season we had hoped it would be, but we had some big wins.” CHICAGO STATE At the seven-minute mark of the first half, Lady Cougar coach Angela Jackson called a timeout and yelled furiously at her team after UTPA had jumped out to a quick 28-12 lead. The outburst ignited her team as the visitors commenced a demoralizing 43-14 run that carried over into the second half, sealing the 59-54 victory. “Even though we lost, I think everybody truly put their effort out there,” said junior center Robin Garrett. “We let ourselves get too far down and we couldn’t come back.” Garrett was the sole UTPA player represented on the All-Independent tournament team. The up-and-coming Nacogdoches native led the women with 50 points, 17 rebounds and four assists in the three days of action. “What an amazing tournament that young lady had,” Craft, the fifth-year head coach, said. “I think that we have one of the best returning posts in that Independent group. Robin Garrett became a very special player in the second half of this season.” NEW JERSEY TECH

After their 71-64 win over Utah Valley State, all the women needed was a win over the No. 5 seed to advance to the championship game. The Lady Highlanders handed the Green and Orange two regular season losses but the women tried to turn the tables in the tournament. However, the late surge by the East Coast team spoiled a potential win. Down 45-37 with 7:44 remaining, NJIT outscored UTPA by 18 the rest of the way. The women had two devastating droughts in the second half and converted only four field goals in the last 16 minutes. “Shots weren’t falling,” season scoring leader Gray said. “We kind of lost focus a little bit.” The Lady Highlander defense also forced the home teamin to 20 turnovers, with 11 coming in the second half, and

won the battle at the boards, 41-33. HONORS Despite the tournament slide, Gray and senior guard Tiona Wilson represented UTPA in the 2007-2008 NCAA Division I All-Independent Women’s Basketball Team. Gray rewrote the history books, ranking first in minutes played with 1,894; she scored a team-high 412 points this season and was the leading scorer in 16 of the 31 games played. Wilson averaged 7.4 points and 2.7 rebounds per game, and recorded the highest single-season threepoint field-goal percentage at 46.6 percent (48 for 103). “It’s (UTPA career) been fun, it’s been real and I’ve enjoyed myself,” Gray said.

StatsAtAGlance

2 2

The seed the Texas Longhorns received in the men’s NCAA tournament

14 14

The place women’s golf finished at the Gainesville Shootout III Saturday

The winning streak the Houston Rockets finished with Tuesday

ShortSports EXTRACURRICULAR

Photos by: Roxy Solis/The Pan American TOURNEY STRUGGLES - UTPA junior center Robin Garrett (left) tries to retain possession and call a timeout during March 6ʼs tilt against NJIT. The Lady Broncs came up just short of advancing to the championship game after the Lady Highlanders used a big second half to crush their title hopes.

With the success it found last semester, the Wellness & Recreational Sports Complex will once again host the jam-packed Rock ‘Da Rec today from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Rock ‘da Rec is a great way to attract people who otherwise wouldn’t come to the rec,” said organizer Gabriel Quintanilla. “It not only promotes the facility but also gives the chance for people to let loose and have some fun.” Last semester, the event was developed in order to entice people to come to the WRSC who normally wouldn’t attend. According to marketing director Colleen Price, approximately 85 students participated in the events, with an official total count unavailable. There will be six heart-pulsing events taking place including Zumba, Hot Spots, Deal or No Deal, Teams Challenge, Rec Race and The Rock competition. Each event will last 15 to 30 minutes with the exception of The Rock competition, which will be going on throughout the night. The most compelling event is the Rec Race, which will involve two partners in an obstacle course; participants will have to show skill, knowledge, strength and teamwork to come out victorious. Deal or No Deal will entail contestants shooting baskets as the prizes get better, while Team Challenge will involve a secret challenge.