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Tony Matamoros is expected to step
down tonight at the Student Government
Association’s midterm ceremony, follow-
ing an eight-month run as the group’s
president, handing executive powers to
Tony Villarreal, current vice president.
Matamoros, who was accepted to
the Bill Archer Fellowship, is one of sev-
eral students from the group leaving for
the internship in Washington, D.C. on
Jan.5. The fellowship, which was estab-
lished by The University of Texas System
and former U.S. Rep. Bill Archer, has
been providing students with hands-on
experience in politics since 2001.
Matamoros is grateful for the expe-
rience he’s gained through his years in
SGA and admits he had to learn how to
negotiate and get along with administra-
tion — a skill he used a lot during the
term as president.
“It’s a gradual process when deal-
ing with administration.” he said in ref-
erence to the number of meetings he’s
had to go through.
While in office, Matamoros admits
that the executive position brought with
it added stress and often disagreements
with counterpart Villarreal. But the two
Tonys — as they were often referred to
among senators — worked out their dif-
ferences along the way; debating over
budgets, fees and proposals, always
managing to work it out professionally,
Villarreal said.
“A lot of the time, we don’t take
ourselves as serious as we need to and
don’t recognize the honor that it is to be
in SGA,” Villarreal said. “He’s been great
at bringing back that professionalism.”
Villarreal is nervous but excited
about the new challenges before him.
By VERONICA GONZALEZThe Pan American
See Page 13
Killer Bees host UTPAnight
SPORTS
Experts: natural energymethods best
Winter break full of funactivities
See Page 8 & 9
See Page 3
A&E
NEWS
TH
IS W
EE
K
� SERIES
IT expert:Schoolswill impactinnovations
See SGA page 11
As part three of a three-part series on
technology and education, The Pan
American uncovers new education-aid-
ing gadgets in the works. Part one exam-
ined the evolution of technology in edu-
cation. Part two examined the effects of
technology on the learning process.
Nearly 50
years ago, most
people had the
perception that
the future would
i n t r o d u c e
humans to hovering cars and robotic
house cleaners after the year 2000.
While we don’t live in a Jetsons-
like reality just yet, the technology boom
of the post-Y2K years has proved out-
standing growth, especially in education.
Everything from technology infra-
structure to how it fundamentally affects
what happens in the classroom and the
changes on the surrounding community
See TECH page 11
New, old leadersrespond to senatorcontroversy
By BOBBY CERVANTES
The Pan American
SGA president resigns, VP to assume post
58th YearNo. 14
ThursdayDec. 5, 2007
uring finals week at The
University of Texas-Pan
American, students scrambling to get a
jumpstart on studying and finishing big
projects are common sights.
An exam in itself is stressful
enough for some people, but add life
outside of school and you’ll find your-
self balancing a full plate.
Maria Castillo, a sophomore nurs-
ing major, agrees that an exam is stress-
ful, but with a 1-year-old child on board,
things get even more difficult at times.
“I have a baby so that brings more
stress,” said the Weslaco resident. “I
stress out a lot when I have an exam. I
try to go relax by myself and try to take
a time out.”
According to psychology professor
Grant Benham, stress is a physiological
reaction the body has when it perceives
a specific incident.
“It is a healthy reaction. When we
think about stress we think of it as being
unhealthy, but the reason for that is that
our bodies aren’t really set up to deal
with long-term stress or what’s referred
to as chronic stress,” Benham said.
“Unfortunately that’s what most of us
are dealing within this 21st century; a
sort of relentless stress that we’re
exposed to.”
Reactions are individual, no two
are alike, which makes any event diffi-
cult to place on the stress meter. But
despite the various levels of tension,
there are tips that can help any stressed
student relax a bit.
Benham suggests creating a time-
management strategy to limit procrasti-
nating and give students better control
over their schedules.
“One way to deal with stress is to
come up with a list of priorities. There
By LEZETTE VILLARREALThe Pan American
See STRESS page 12
Veronica Gonzalez /The Pan American
RELAX - Jacqueline Adams (left), fitness and wellness coordinator, and Mercy Rentena, yoga instructor, gave free yogaclasses provided by the Wellness and Recreational Center on Monday. The program aimed to help students unwind for finals.
� STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Winding down: For students, finals often meanstress, studying and sleepless nights
D
THE PAN AMERICANPage 2
1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539Phone: (956) 381-2541
Fax: (956) 316-7122www.utpa.edu/dept/panamerican
THE
PANAMERICAN
DECEMBER 5, 2007
The Pan American is the official student newspaperof The University of Texas-Pan American. Viewspresented are those of the writers and do notnecessarily reflect those of the paper or university.
Editor-in-ChiefSandra Gonzalez.................................................
News EditorAna [email protected]
A&E EditorJeanette [email protected]
Sports EditorErick Quintero.................................................
Photography EditorVeronica Gonzalez...........................................
Design EditorRoy [email protected]
Designers
Rick Gamez
Greg Garza
Reporters and Photographers
Brian Carr
Leslie Estrada
Onydia Garza
Ramiro Paez
Lezette Villarreal
Laura Garcia
AdviserDr. Greg [email protected]
The Pan American accepts letters of 300words or less from students, staff and facultyregarding recent newspaper content, campusconcerns or current events. The Pan Americanreserves the right to edit submissions for grammarand length. The Pan American cannot publishanonymous letters or submissions containing hatespeech or gratuitous personal attacks. Please send allstory ideas to [email protected].
Individuals with disabilities wishing toacquire this publication in an alternative format orneeding assistance to attend any event listed cancontact The Pan American for more details.
SecretaryAnita [email protected]
Advertising ManagerSamantha [email protected]
Assitant Advertising ManagerJacqueline Iglesias...................................
***Delivery
Thursday at noon
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Savethesedates
December
� STAFF EDITORIA L
� SOCIAL COMMENTARY
n recent years, students from Texas
colleges have been plagued with
mounting tuition and fee rates. But at a
time when a college diploma’s worth is
valued more highly than ever, most are
willing to make adjustments — even if
that means falling into debt.
At The University of Texas at
Arlington, a resident undergraduate tak-
ing 15 hours can expect to pay $3,500
per semester. In 2005, this number was
only 2,900. At The University of Texas-
Pan American, the same number of
hours costs $2,413 — a nearly $700 dif-
ference from 2005.
Nobody likes to pay more for
school. And it would be very easy for us
to jump on the collegiate bandwagon
and complain with the rest of the state.
But the truth of the matter is we have lit-
tle to cry about at UTPA. In fact, we
think the school has, for the most part,
benefited from higher tuition costs.
Over the past five years, UTPA has
built two massive new additions to the
campus, and more are on the way. The
school’s new recreation sports complex
and dorm hall have greatly enhanced the
school’s aesthetic appeal, and more
importantly, its student life.
A prettier campus encourages stu-
dents to spend more time here, and it helps
build a sense of camaraderie among them.
It pushes many out of their parking lot-
class-parking lot mindset, and, hopefully,
makes them proud of their university.
The price boost doesn’t feel like
such a blow to wallets. You get what you
pay for, right? Not to mention that most
students at UTPA pay for college —
sometimes partly, sometimes entirely —
with state and federal grants. And with
increases in fees and tuition come
increases in financial assistance set aside
for students, thankfully.
This is certainly not to say people
should become complacent about the
swell in college costs. It’s not due to stop
any time soon, and while money seems
properly budgeted for now, this could
easily change due to failed oversight or
fiscal irresponsibility.
It is up to the student to know where
her money goes. We encourage everyone
to attend meetings and presentations held
by the Cost of Education Committee and
to offer the organization input so that they
know where to allocate funds.
According to information released
by COEC, UTPA students should expect
to see tuition rates rising. Next year, the
cost per credit hour is expected to be
$79.15, up $16 from this year. Why not
attend a meeting and find out why?
It is especially important to stay on
top of those pesky little fees—which seem
to pop up out of nowhere each semester. If
you don’t want a random charge tacked on
to your UTPA bill, speak up.
The process is much more complex
than it seems. Students have a bigger input
in the process than many are aware of.
On that note, we’d like to applaud
administrators for appropriating school
funds adequately and for keeping the
price tag of a UTPA diploma at a reason-
able level. We’d also like to encourage
students to get involved in the school’s
budgetary process and ensure the same
administrators keep it that way.
I
OPINIONDecember 5, 2007
Tuition rising, UTPA still good deal
don’t understand young people; not
because their minds are so complex,
their actions so immature or their ability
to act responsibly so subpar. While those
are valid grievances, it is not why I don’t
understand young people. I can’t under-
stand them because...well, I can’t.
Observe (all excerpts actual state-
ments. No one was hurt in the writing of
this column, except maybe the English
language.):
“I put a lot of time on that and I think
[professors’ name removed to protect the
innocent...and guilty] will think that I did
it good.” — Student walking to car.
“I don’t get you sometimes. You
just think you’re like all that. (pause)
No, no. Escuchame, you don’t listen.”
— Student on phone
“This is different than the one I
saw, but I like this ok.” — Student sit-
ting outside Social and Behavioral
Sciences Building
“It was broke, but I fixed it.” —
Student in hallway
“You drunk from it didn’t you? I
can tell it.” — Student in Union.
“I got a lot less fries than you.” —
Student off campus at Whataburger
“I’m real tired today, so I think I’ll
go to Burger King. I feel like fries any-
way.” — Student pondering dinner
I know it is easy to make grammar
mistakes. I make several and often have
to stop and ponder the difference
between “wary” and “weary” before giv-
ing my grammar Nazi of a sister a
chance to correct me. But there is a large
difference between making a mistake
and just being lazy.
Sentence structure is important, too,
but I tend to give a little creative flexibil-
ity in that regard. In journalism style, for
example, you can have a sentence that
begins with the word “but” or “and.” (I
feel it important to make that point
because I think that is a fact little known
to the common reader. And while I’m on
this subject, when writing journalism
style you CAN have a paragraph with less
than three sentences, thank you.)
I’ll even give a few of the offenders
the benefit of the doubt. Maybe you can
like something “ok.” Maybe something
that isn’t totally broken is just “broke.”
And maybe, just maybe, the hungry stu-
dent really did feel like a piece of fried
potato. But for the sake of surrounding
students, who may overhear these errors,
don’t spread the disease.
As one fellow student pointed out
to me, lazy grammar, much like other
bad habits, can interrupt your everyday
life. Imagine for a moment a scenario
(this one is for the upcoming graduates):
Two people. One job. Equal degrees,
qualifications and skirt length. One was
“real excited” to get a call for an inter-
view. The other was “really excited.”
Who will get the job? Don’t be a smart
ass, you know who.
Unlike with smoking, there is no
patch for poor grammar. Unlike drugs,
there is no rehab for it (unless you count
Hooked on Phonics). And unlike obesity,
there is no surgery (unless you want to
have your tongue removed). With no
quick cure, it is an epidemic.
Blame pop culture. Blame televi-
sion. Blame the student next to you. But
we all know the only responsible party is
the speaker. If we don’t hold ourselves
accountable, it is quite possible that we
will one day sincerely not understand the
words that are coming out of our mouths.
BY: SANDRA GONZALEZ
� Does this editorial makeyou “real mad?” Email meabout it: [email protected]
I
Lazy grammar officially an epidemic
1414The University of Texas-
Pan American Mariachi willbe peforming at 7 p.m. inthe Fine Arts Auditorium
3131The University of Texas-
Pan American AlumniAssociation will be hostinga New Year’s Eve Casino
Night. Tickets are $100 perperson until Dec. 20. They
will be $125 afterward.Contact the UTPA AlumniRelations Office at (956)
381-2500 or (956) 624-6263for more information
� ADMINISTRATIVE
Newsinbrief
Norma Dryer, former contract coor-
dinator for Materials Management, has
been named interim director of the office,
Vice President of Business Affairs James
Langabeer announced Tuesday.
The position has been vacant since
last week, when then-director Frances
Rios was promoted to assistant vice
president and director of human
resources.
Langabeer said in an e-mail that
Dryers’ two degrees in engineering and
her certification as a purchasing manager
made her “eminently qualified” for the
position.
As another semester comes to a
close at The University of Texas-Pan
American, reflection serves as a
reminder that it was a fall punctuated by
important milestones in the university’s
development, shocking events and spe-
cial guests.
The semester began on a positive
note, with the opening of the universi-
ty’s Wellness and Recreation Sports
Complex, a 156,000-square foot facili-
ty. The center opened to rave reviews.
“These are services every student
who attends UTPA should take advan-
tage of,” said sophomore English major
Diana Escamilla, now a regular at the
new facility. “The place provides a good
opportunity to get or stay fit, with
friends or without. It is very conven-
ient, and impossible to say no to a good
chance in becoming healthy now.”
The upbeat tone of the semester
beginning was short-lived, however,
when President Blandina Cardenas
announced in early September that she
would be taking a leave of absence to
THE PAN AMERICANDecember 5, 2007 Page 3
NEWS
Looking back, forward
As the fall 2007 semester ends,
students’ lives at The University of
Texas-Pan American are filled with late
nights and frantic study sessions in
preparation for their finals. Most stu-
dents are looking forward to a long
Winter Break with spring semester
being the last thing on their mind.
UTPA, however, has already start-
ed planning for campus activities in
2008. According to Jerry Price, associ-
ate vice president and dean of students,
there “are quite a lot of things going on
the first few weeks students return for
[sic] spring semester.”
UTPA has also secured another
speaker as part of their Distinguished
Speaker Series which brings world-
renowned guests to speak on the campus.
On Jan. 30, Paul Rusesabagina, is
bringing his tale of courage as a seem-
ingly ordinary hotel manager that saved
the lives of thousands during the
Rwandan Genocide in 1994, is slated to
open the 2008 series.
Marvin Boland, architect and
By BOBBY CERVANTESThe Pan American
See SPRING page 12
By LUPE A. FLORESThe Pan American
� SEMESTER IN REVIEW
See REVIEW page 12
University moves past fall filled with shock, speakers, toward new semester
Can you kick the can?
If students find themselves stuck in a
never-ending loop of studying and exams,
they know finals week is just around the
corner. The solution for most college stu-
dents: popping open that can of caffeine.
For some, dependence on these bev-
erages helps keep a person awake, while
leaving others unable to concentrate.
For Myra Infante, 34, it is quite the
opposite; she drinks Red Bull at least
once a day, if not more.
“I’m always drinking it,” the junior
English major said. “I get very little
sleep at times so drinking it really helps
me get through my day.”
Infante has never experienced bad
side effects from her constant caffeine
intake. In fact, the McAllen native is a
self-proclaimed advocate for the drink.
She simply asks friends to try it if they
are feeling down.
She added that three of her closer
friends have taken her advice and have
drank Red Bull to boost up their energy
and it has worked for them as well.
Infante sees no real harm in her
caffeine-need since it works for her and
it has never impaired her in any way. No
matter if its finals week or any average
week she said she drinks Red Bull con-
sistently to keep alert.
By J.R. ORTEGAThe Pan American
Nick Dodd /The Pan American
ENERGIZED - Amp, an energy drink product of the Mountain Dew brand, is a pop-ular choice of studying students like Zeke Barrera, a senior sociology major. See ENERGY page 12
� SPRING PREVIEW
Studentsrecall testhorrors
As Jonathan Alanis rushed to class,
he tripped, fell and ripped his pajamas. He
was already late for his midterm since his
alarm clock didn’t go off. As a passerby
stared, he gathered his book bag and calm-
ly made his way to the classroom.
If this sounds vaguely familiar, you
are not alone. Test-taking horrors happen
to the best of us and it seems as if every-
thing manages to go wrong that day.
Forgetting a Scantron or a pencil, or suf-
fering a wardrobe malfunction while
running to class to make it on time to the
exam, are all a part of it.
Alanis, a sophomore undeclared
major, learned to prepare for tests in
advance because of the incident, which
happened during his freshman year.
“Next time, I’m just not running
with pajamas on campus,” the Pharr
native said. “I did OK on the test but
now, the night before I put post-its on
my bathroom mirror of things to do the
next day.”
So far the method has worked well
for him.
“I feel better when I see those notes
� “Exercisebefore study-ing to relievestress.”
-Unam Nasir sophomore
biology/pre-med
� “Use socialprobation…Ipunish myself.I’m not goingto eat until Ilearn my stuff.
And then I reward myself.”-Aaron Alvarez
juniorbiology
� “I listen tomusic and ithelps mestudy, once Iincorporate itinto the song.”
-Brenda Rodriguezfreshman
social studies composite
� “ S t u d ygroups help alot. And it’s ascientificallyproven factthat studying
right before you go to sleep canhelp your brain consolidateinfo better than the day.”
-Sandra Hansmannassistant professor
rehabilitative services
TestingTips
� “Set blocksof time everyweek and usethem forstudying pro-gram is a win-
win situation.”-Shawn Saladin
assistant professorrehabilitative services
t’s happened to everyone. It’s likewriters block...except for your entire
brain. But these people have been there,too. So here are some studying and testtaking tips from the ultimate experts; fel-low students and professors.
I
See HORRORS page 12
Experts speak on alternate ways to gain energy
By ABIGAIL MUNIZThe Pan American
NEWSPage 4 December 5, 2007
NEWSDecember 5, 2007 Page 5
NEWSPage 6 December 5, 2007
ELLIOT SMITHMost Elliott Smith fans were not
surprised when the artist killed himself in
2003. His music seemed to pulse through
him in a gentle yet melancholy tone.
He had a penchant for songs writ-
ten in minor keys, and his trademark
double-track vocals were at once wispy
and masculine.
The result is a delicate auditory
experience.
For this reason, Wes Anderson
chose to use Smith’s “Needle in the
Hay” as the background score for the
attempted suicide scene in his 2001 dra-
matic comedy “The Royal
Tenenbaums.”
In his 1997 Kill Rock Star debut
“Either/Or,” Smith crafted beautiful
working class-influenced ballads that
resonate with delicate musical har-
monies while delivering brilliant lyri-
cal offerings and ingenious guitar
arrangements.
At its core the album is a garage
tape. Smith co-produced the album on
an analog 4-track, while playing all the
musical instruments in the process.
Because of this the album is tender,
haunting and beautiful.
Minimalistic and intrinsic, Smith’s
offerings play like auditory Van Gogh.
Delightfully textured, and powerfully
simple, “Either/Or” seeps like wallpaper
through radio speakers, and falls like
feathers of warmth.
Take for instance, “Angeles.” The
staccato guitar work melts over a steady
waltz while Smith lips the cautionary
observation: “Someone’s always coming
around here trailing some new cure.”
Only this time the prescription is
accurate, so dial it up on your iPod, and
swallow the medicine.
PINK FLOYDPink Floyd might be quick to dis-
miss 1970’s “Atom Heart Mother” as a
grotesquely self indulgent studio
album, but retrospectively the album
was a brilliant segue from the Syd
Barrett-fronted mod act that the band
originated as, to the dark-sided head
band it would become.
The five-track masterpiece is part
rock orchestra, part folk happenstance,
and all brilliance.
The opening track “Atom Heart
Mother,” pulses along for over 23 min-
utes, and is broken up into six move-
ments. Each movement is grandiose
and Wagneresque, with French horns
and timpani drums meshing brilliantly
with traditional rock instrumentation to
produce a moving, neo-orchestral
experience.
The finale of the album “Alan’s
Psychedelic Breakfast,” is similar in
construction, however here we see more
of Richard Wright’s piano virtuosity as
Floyd unleashes several heady piano
vignettes linked together by psychedelic
mood changes.
Sandwiched between these two
larger works are three folk-inspired rock
jingles that melt away beneath the
weight of the bookends. But as a musical
offering to rest your mind to, the album
as a whole is soothing and maternal.
With finals just around the corner
most student stress levels will reach an
all-time high. Let the panic attacks, nerv-
ous breakdowns and late-night cram ses-
sions begin. However, there are ways to
make it through finals minimizing trau-
ma, including taking time to relax and
making the most of stress-free zones on
campus.
One place University of Texas-Pan
American students frequent to get away
from it all is the new Wellness and
Recreation Sports Complex. The com-
plex not only offers gyms, weights and a
rock climbing wall, but lounge areas out-
fitted with modern furniture, WI-FI
(Wireless Internet connection) and
vibrant colors suitable to study or to sim-
ply nap.
The complex café, “Energy Zone,”
is another plus, offering healthy drinks
and snacks for post-workout consump-
tion. For Santos Moreno, the gym proves
to be very soothing.
“It keeps my mind off troubles that
&RTS EA NTERTAINMENTTHE PAN AMERICAN
December 5, 2007 Page 7
� SEEN AND CAPTURED
By BRIAN CARRThe Pan American
SEASONʼS GREETINGS - The annual “Festival of Lights” started off the month of December with the community-involvedand festive, winter wonderland for all to enjoy, especially young childlren.
Nick Dodd/The Pan American
Calm the nerves, anxiety with music� MUSIC REVIEWS
By LAURA GARCIAThe Pan American
Elliot Smith
Campusabundantwith areasof relaxation
Edinburg lights upthe holidays
The City of Edinburg and the
University of Texas-Pan American,
along with the Edinburg Economic
Development Corporation and the
Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, pre-
sented “Night of Lights” Nov. 29 in
the Quad.
The celebration, which is famous
for its festive parade, converted the
popular campus event space into a
winter wonderland of sorts by cover-
ing surrounding buildings and palm
trees in Christmas lights. Drinks, danc-
ing, live bands, and food ranging from
classic American hotdogs to hot
brisket sandwiches made the event a
crowd-pleaser.
“I took my daughter Katelyn, and
she was just in awe of everything,”
said Carolyn Guzman, a sophomore
communications disorder major and
McAllen native. “She was really excit-
ed to see Santa, but when she got to sit
on his knee she was just so star-struck,
that whenever he asked her a question
she didn’t answer.”
By RUSSEN VELAThe Pan American
See RELAX page 10
DID YOU KNOW?� A 2005 study done by British
and Italian scientists discovered
that listening to music with a
slow or meditative tempo has a
relaxing effect on people, slows
breathing and heart rate.
ead week: brief, disheartening and grotesque. The moment ofactualization – you’re not as good of a student as you should be.
You could have kept up. You could have followed clean and stringentoutlines, which would have navigated you genially through the work-load of the course. But chances are, you did not.
Cram. In a fit of surreal brain activity you force knowledge uponyour grey matter, as though the bludgeoning of foregone material couldsomehow leave facts stuck to your synapses.
Then the pain. The dull ache of confusion. Eyeballs ache from leftto right. Temporal lobe swells tight against your skull.
You need auditory relief. You need albums to study to.
D
Pink Floyd
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTPage 8 December 5, 2007
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTDecember 5, 2007 Page 9
hen the fall semester is over, millions of collegestudents as well as professors are stumped as what
to do over the break. Sure, some will travel to exoticlocations such as Aspen, Col., or take a luxurious cruiseto Alaska, but for the rest of The University of Texas-Pan American students and staff, many will end upstaying at home and seeking amusement around thearea. Have no fear of Jack Frost spoiling your Christmasbreak, there is plenty of fun and joy to go around.
W
CONCERTS
Alternative rock takes center stage this week-
end as the internationally acclaimed band The
Cranberries performs at McAllen-based club
Metropolis.
“When I heard the band was coming, I could-
n’t contain myself,” said Sandra Sanchez, a junior
political science major, adding that it has been a
“life-long dream” of hers to see the band.
The band, whose hits include “Linger,”
“Dreams,” and “Salvation,” is set to perform on
Friday, tickets and start time have yet to be posted
on the club Web site.
FUN AT DODGE
The Dodge arena has been known for its sen-
sational ice shows, to its involvement with some
show stopping concerts from performers such as
Ricky Martin, to Evanescence. And this season
they will not disappoint.
The arena in McAllen Texas has officially been
called the Land of Disney shows. With such tours
such the “Princess Dreams” which features vari-
ous Disney Princess’s on Ice, The Dodge arena is
proud to present “Playhouse Disney Live!” from
from Dec. 21 to Dec. 23.
The ice show will feature numerous Disney
characters from Mikey, Minnie, and their good
friend Donald Duck. Based on the popular TV
show on the Disney channel, the ice show will con-
sist of many outrageous plots and story lines which
feature the all Disney cast.
Jenah Perez, a sophomore communication dis-
orders major, is considering taking her 8-year-old
son Caleb to the show.
“My son and I both love Disney cartoons, and
I think it would such a great experience to see
them perform on ice,” Perez said excitedly. Prices
for tickets vary due to seating.
For those who want an event for an older audi-
ence there is Monster Jam, taking place Jan. 25-27.
Monster Trucks will go toe to toe in the highly
anticipated competition.
“Monster Jam is hilarious and awesome at the
same time,” Adrian Sandoval, a sophomore rehab
major and McAllen resident. “You can’t help but
laugh at the cars that get crushed, and end up los-
ing the competition.“
GRAND OPENINGS
The Valley will continue its economic growth
as well over the winter break, with the opening of
the “Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory” Dec. 13.
The factory offers a large array of exotic
chocolate and pastries, from Chocolate covered
strawberries to white chocolate covered apples.
Junior Psychology major Linda Ortiz was
excited to hear about the opening of the chocolate-
ly domain.
“I dreamed of having a Rocky Mountain
Chocolate Factory here in the Valley. It makes life
so sweet and gooey to know that I will have one
near my house,” the Mcallen native said.
The store will be located at 3300 Expressway
83, Ste. 170 at the Palms Crossing Shopping
Center in McAllen.
TRADITIONAL CELEBRATIONS
Among the barrage of new events and happen-
ings in the Valley over winter break, the Valley will
also play host to more traditional events.
McAllen’s Chamber of Commerce will also
holding their annual Candelight Posada, which is
celebrating its 25th anniversary.
The Posada will kick-off with a lighted
Christmas parade on Friday night at 7 p.m. The
event will culminate with a Saturday evening pro-
cession and the re-enactment of Mary and Joseph
searching for an inn. Both of the evenings will
include more than 30 food booths will offer taste-
tempting delights such as funnel cake.
The celebration will be held on Friday and
Saturday, December 7 and 8 at Archer Park in
McAllen. Admission is free.
MOVIES
Stage productions of Christmas stories vary
with some students and staff, but one thing is for
sure: there is nothing like a good movie to watch at
theaters during the Christmas holidays. “Sweeney
Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,”
“Atonement,” and “The Golden Compass” all
seem poised and ready to claim the holiday box
office throne.
“Sweeney Todd,” based on Stephen
Sondheim’s Tony award-winning horror musical,
will be re-imagined with the genius of director Tim
Burton, plus actors Johnny Depp and Helena
Bonham Carter. The musical about greed, revenge
and redemption will no doubt shock audiences
with its gory scenery and “oh-so-Tim-Burton”
style.
“I cannot wait to hear Johnny Depp sing,”
said sophomore art major Lisa Arzola. “The musi-
cal may not be for everyone, due to the whole plot
of revenge and greed, but to me it is going to be a
bloody good Christmas,” the McAllen native said,
laughing.
The film is selected to open in limited release
on Dec. 21 and go nationwide on Christmas Day.
“Atonement,” is a film based on the critically
acclaimed and award-winning novel; it is the soph-
omore effort from director Joe Wright, who two
years ago made the critically acclaimed sleeper hit
“Pride and Prejudice” with Keira Knightley.
Again, he directs his leading lady with passion and
drama alongside James Mcavoy and Vanessa
Redgrave. The film, which has already been
receiving raves from critics, is certainly going to be
the frontrunner for this coming Oscar race. The
story focuses on the characters of Knightley and
Mcavoy as they are torn apart by lies, war, and
social class differences. The film opens Dec.14 in
wide release.
“The Golden Compass,” which is also based
on a number of books like “Lord of The Rings,”
seems poised and ready to claim the throne of its
predecessors. Starring Oscar winner Nicole
Kidman, and newcomer Dakota Blue Richards, it
tells the tale of a magical compass of gold that will
answer any question if one is skilled enough to
read it. Once that person reads it, they are thrust
into a parallel universe where animals talk, witch-
es are good instead of evil, and the villains are not
what they seem to be. The film has already stirred
some controversy due to perceived “anti-Catholic”
undertones, but the producers and writers have
stood by the film, and say that the supposed under-
tones have nothing to do with the story about
courage, love, and power.
“If this is good as ‘Lord of the Rings,’ I am so
there,” said Janet Rivera, a sophomore art major
from Edinburg. “I have not read the books, but I
didn’t read the ‘Lord of the Rings’ either, so I
know I will understand it.” The film opens Dec. 7.
With all these festivals, concerts, and shows to
attend, who would want to leave and seek
Christmas cheer elsewhere? Sure, none of these
things are as glamorous as a luxury cruise, or a
trip to Aspen, but to many they’re just the things
to start the holiday break with a Christmas bang!
So don’t be Scrooges just because you cannot go
out of town, enjoy what is here. Who knows, it may
be better than those cruises or long trips.
Holiday season has much to offer
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTPage 8 December 5, 2007
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTDecember 5, 2007 Page 9
hen the fall semester is over, millions of collegestudents as well as professors are stumped as what
to do over the break. Sure, some will travel to exoticlocations such as Aspen, Col., or take a luxurious cruiseto Alaska, but for the rest of The University of Texas-Pan American students and staff, many will end upstaying at home and seeking amusement around thearea. Have no fear of Jack Frost spoiling your Christmasbreak, there is plenty of fun and joy to go around.
W
CONCERTS
Alternative rock takes center stage this week-
end as the internationally acclaimed band The
Cranberries performs at McAllen-based club
Metropolis.
“When I heard the band was coming, I could-
n’t contain myself,” said Sandra Sanchez, a junior
political science major, adding that it has been a
“life-long dream” of hers to see the band.
The band, whose hits include “Linger,”
“Dreams,” and “Salvation,” is set to perform on
Friday, tickets and start time have yet to be posted
on the club Web site.
FUN AT DODGE
The Dodge arena has been known for its sen-
sational ice shows, to its involvement with some
show stopping concerts from performers such as
Ricky Martin, to Evanescence. And this season
they will not disappoint.
The arena in McAllen Texas has officially been
called the Land of Disney shows. With such tours
such the “Princess Dreams” which features vari-
ous Disney Princess’s on Ice, The Dodge arena is
proud to present “Playhouse Disney Live!” from
from Dec. 21 to Dec. 23.
The ice show will feature numerous Disney
characters from Mikey, Minnie, and their good
friend Donald Duck. Based on the popular TV
show on the Disney channel, the ice show will con-
sist of many outrageous plots and story lines which
feature the all Disney cast.
Jenah Perez, a sophomore communication dis-
orders major, is considering taking her 8-year-old
son Caleb to the show.
“My son and I both love Disney cartoons, and
I think it would such a great experience to see
them perform on ice,” Perez said excitedly. Prices
for tickets vary due to seating.
For those who want an event for an older audi-
ence there is Monster Jam, taking place Jan. 25-27.
Monster Trucks will go toe to toe in the highly
anticipated competition.
“Monster Jam is hilarious and awesome at the
same time,” Adrian Sandoval, a sophomore rehab
major and McAllen resident. “You can’t help but
laugh at the cars that get crushed, and end up los-
ing the competition.“
GRAND OPENINGS
The Valley will continue its economic growth
as well over the winter break, with the opening of
the “Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory” Dec. 13.
The factory offers a large array of exotic
chocolate and pastries, from Chocolate covered
strawberries to white chocolate covered apples.
Junior Psychology major Linda Ortiz was
excited to hear about the opening of the chocolate-
ly domain.
“I dreamed of having a Rocky Mountain
Chocolate Factory here in the Valley. It makes life
so sweet and gooey to know that I will have one
near my house,” the Mcallen native said.
The store will be located at 3300 Expressway
83, Ste. 170 at the Palms Crossing Shopping
Center in McAllen.
TRADITIONAL CELEBRATIONS
Among the barrage of new events and happen-
ings in the Valley over winter break, the Valley will
also play host to more traditional events.
McAllen’s Chamber of Commerce will also
holding their annual Candelight Posada, which is
celebrating its 25th anniversary.
The Posada will kick-off with a lighted
Christmas parade on Friday night at 7 p.m. The
event will culminate with a Saturday evening pro-
cession and the re-enactment of Mary and Joseph
searching for an inn. Both of the evenings will
include more than 30 food booths will offer taste-
tempting delights such as funnel cake.
The celebration will be held on Friday and
Saturday, December 7 and 8 at Archer Park in
McAllen. Admission is free.
MOVIES
Stage productions of Christmas stories vary
with some students and staff, but one thing is for
sure: there is nothing like a good movie to watch at
theaters during the Christmas holidays. “Sweeney
Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,”
“Atonement,” and “The Golden Compass” all
seem poised and ready to claim the holiday box
office throne.
“Sweeney Todd,” based on Stephen
Sondheim’s Tony award-winning horror musical,
will be re-imagined with the genius of director Tim
Burton, plus actors Johnny Depp and Helena
Bonham Carter. The musical about greed, revenge
and redemption will no doubt shock audiences
with its gory scenery and “oh-so-Tim-Burton”
style.
“I cannot wait to hear Johnny Depp sing,”
said sophomore art major Lisa Arzola. “The musi-
cal may not be for everyone, due to the whole plot
of revenge and greed, but to me it is going to be a
bloody good Christmas,” the McAllen native said,
laughing.
The film is selected to open in limited release
on Dec. 21 and go nationwide on Christmas Day.
“Atonement,” is a film based on the critically
acclaimed and award-winning novel; it is the soph-
omore effort from director Joe Wright, who two
years ago made the critically acclaimed sleeper hit
“Pride and Prejudice” with Keira Knightley.
Again, he directs his leading lady with passion and
drama alongside James Mcavoy and Vanessa
Redgrave. The film, which has already been
receiving raves from critics, is certainly going to be
the frontrunner for this coming Oscar race. The
story focuses on the characters of Knightley and
Mcavoy as they are torn apart by lies, war, and
social class differences. The film opens Dec.14 in
wide release.
“The Golden Compass,” which is also based
on a number of books like “Lord of The Rings,”
seems poised and ready to claim the throne of its
predecessors. Starring Oscar winner Nicole
Kidman, and newcomer Dakota Blue Richards, it
tells the tale of a magical compass of gold that will
answer any question if one is skilled enough to
read it. Once that person reads it, they are thrust
into a parallel universe where animals talk, witch-
es are good instead of evil, and the villains are not
what they seem to be. The film has already stirred
some controversy due to perceived “anti-Catholic”
undertones, but the producers and writers have
stood by the film, and say that the supposed under-
tones have nothing to do with the story about
courage, love, and power.
“If this is good as ‘Lord of the Rings,’ I am so
there,” said Janet Rivera, a sophomore art major
from Edinburg. “I have not read the books, but I
didn’t read the ‘Lord of the Rings’ either, so I
know I will understand it.” The film opens Dec. 7.
With all these festivals, concerts, and shows to
attend, who would want to leave and seek
Christmas cheer elsewhere? Sure, none of these
things are as glamorous as a luxury cruise, or a
trip to Aspen, but to many they’re just the things
to start the holiday break with a Christmas bang!
So don’t be Scrooges just because you cannot go
out of town, enjoy what is here. Who knows, it may
be better than those cruises or long trips.
Holiday season has much to offer
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTPage 10 December 5, 2007
Movies to unwind, inspire
While studying for upcoming
finals may help garner a good grade in
any given class, sometimes it’s hard to
find the initial inspiration to pick up
that book.
For some students, however, they
need not look further than their local
video rental store for the motivation to
study, in the hope that life imitates art.
Alejandro Morales, a public
administration master’s student, rec-
ommends viewing “Stand and
Deliver,” a movie about a Hispanic
math teacher who teaches his students
calculus in a year’s time.
“It’s a very good movie,” said
Morales, 35. “Based on a true story, it
shows you that if you put your mind to
it, set some goals, you can accomplish
anything no matter what anyone says.”
Spoiler alert: the students take the
calculus AP exam and pass.
Business major Jose Garza sug-
gests watching “Freedom Writers,” a
movie about an idealist teacher who
begins teaching in a racially diverse
school whose students come from all
walks of life. She uses their own expe-
riences to show them they are not much
different from each other and that there
is a possibility for a better life after
graduation.
“Its a great movie that can reach a
lot of audiences,” said the 23-year-old.
“Allowing you to see how people from
different lifestyles can relate to one
another and how applying yourself can
help you accomplish anything.”
Other lesson-heavy movies worth
noting during a study break:
“Lean on Me,” a movie based on
a true story, is about an unorthodox
principal who takes charge of a school
that is overrun by drugs, violence and
urban despair. The school is close to
being taken over by the state because
of its poor test scores. The lesson: A
good teacher can make the difference.
The principal goes to great lengths
because he believes in his students,
eventually getting arrested in support
of his kids. In the end, students pass
the basic skills exam.
“The Perfect Score,” a movie not
based on a true story, focuses on a
group of high school students who con-
spire to steal the answers to the SAT
exam and obtain a perfect score. The
lesson: Don’t cheat.
In the film, all six students decide
not to cheat and do well on the test,
without the stolen answers.
“Finding Forester” is a story
about a child from the Bronx who
scores well on a standardized test and
is recruited by a prestigious prep
school that only wants him for his
skills on the basketball court. The les-
son: Just do the work. Helped along by
a Pulitzer-prize winning author, the
boy manages to overcome several
obstacles and purses his dreams on and
off the court.
By JACKYLN ALVAREZThe Pan American
TEST TIME - “The Perfect Score,” is acomedic film portraying the lessintense, laid-back side of exam-taking.
IMDB.com
RELAXcontinued from page 7
come from being a college student,
everyone in there has the same goal and
same mentality with these actions, cre-
ating a comfortable atmosphere for oth-
ers with the same expectations,” said
the 19-year-old rehabilitation major
from Edinburg. “The outdoor swim-
ming pool is very appealing when
we’re still reaching 90s in mid-
November, and doing a couple of laps
is definitely a stress reliever.”
Feeling sleepy? Thanks to the
University Program Board and what rep-
resentatives call “passive programming,”
during finals, students can head over to
the ballroom, pick a spot and take a nap
using one of the mats provided.
“We noticed people sleeping in dif-
ferent places and it’s kind of hard to nap
anywhere else on campus,” said Cruz
Rios, president of the UPB. “We encour-
age students to come in and take advan-
tage of the ballroom.”
UPB people will also be handing
out candy during the week, along with
motivational messages to give students an
extra boost.
For those who need a quiet place
to study, the library will remain open
until 2 a.m. giving students the opportu-
nity to cram until the last minute. The
extended hours are part of a pilot pro-
gram that was lobbied for by the
Student Government Association.
SGA will also have a table set up in
the lobby on Dec. 10 where members will
hand out muffins, Powerade and energy
drinks from 8 p.m until midnight.
“We just want to make students
aware of the extended library hours and
we know how stressful exams can be and
we want to be available to help,” said
Tony Villareal, president of SGA.
Ace the Test program is another
service provided by the SGA, which
gives students two free Scantrons for
going into the office and leaving com-
ments or suggestions about anything con-
cerning the university.
As for those who choose not to
stay on campus, there are surrounding
places to grab coffee or catch up on
some studying.
The fairly new Java House Café,
located down University Drive next to
Papa John’s, offers an extensive menu of
Espressos, Cappuccinos, blended drinks
and free Wi-Fi. The café is open Monday
through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
and Sunday from noon to to 6 p.m.. Live
music is another great addition, maybe
not such a good choice while trying to get
some serious studying going on, but a
better choice for celebrating that hard-
earned “A.”
Wherever you choose to pass the
time, keep in mind, finals are only a week
long and it’ll be over before you know it.
NEWSDecember 5, 2007 Page 11
TECH continued from page 1
involved were key focal points.
Whether in five years all class-
rooms in America will resemble “smart
classrooms” is still largely debatable, but
what seems apparent today is the surge
of a different, more popular technology
breakthrough in education.
Apple Inc., the makers of the popu-
lar iPod brand, have led the trend in put-
ting technology in the hands of college
students and professors.
From videos broadcasting docu-
mentaries or foreign language lessons, to
photos bringing science experiments to
the student, Apple Inc.’s Education
Department has revolutionized the edu-
cational technology field by making
delivery of this information to a broader
audience easy access.
Apple Inc. predicts that the project
could reach a total student population of
more than 6 million with colleges in the
United States and Canada.
Julio Cutaia, a senior international
business major at The University of
Texas- Pan American, said that this is a
good use of technology if used correctly.
“Its like anything, if you know how
to use it in a good, positive way it just
gives students more options,” Cutaia,
from McAllen, said.
An interesting idea that remains in
the “research stages” at UTPA, is having
a virtual campus, or creating a “second
life.”
Created by Linden Labs in 1999,
this virtual campus would provide “a
revolutionary new form of shared expe-
rience, where individuals jointly inhabit
a 3D landscape and build the world
around them,” according to its Website.
This new technology would pro-
vide a great change in how the tradition-
al classroom is structured.
“The nursing department can be
presented with a virtual patient and can
diagnose what is wrong with them,
too,” Edgar Gonzalez, assistant direc-
tor for Instructional Technology at
UTPA said.
“It’s a great tool for simulation that
you can use to create everything,”
Gonzalez said. While many companies
are now vying to produce the latest and
greatest technological advancement in
education, much of the development will
be determined by universities –students
and teachers especially – as they are the
only ones who can truly asses how tech-
nology in today’s world helps or hinders
their education goals.
Gonzalez stressed that the universi-
ty is still not sure about the technology
effectiveness and they are currently
researching whether a value exists.
SGA continued from page 1He’s ready to do the job.
“I want to contribute a lot more
energy for the issues…I want to coordi-
nate a lot more events through SGA, and
make sure the campus community is
involved,” he said.
Part of his plans, on top of continu-
ing those Matamoros started, includes
having more events for the student body.
“It’s going to be a busy semester. I
have a lot on my plate, but I hope I can
continue to enhance the reputation of
SGA,” Villarreal said.
CONCERNSBut as a new president’s story begins,
SGA is quietly closing a separate matter,
involving a semester-long disagreement
with graduate senator Noel Escobar.
Earlier this year, The Pan American
wrote about the university’s controver-
sial subscription to Playboy. Shortly
after the article, Escobar, a loud oppo-
nent of the subscription since the matter
first surfaced, felt like he needed input
from his constituents and released a sur-
vey to students. However, he was quick-
ly told he could not do so, since he did-
n’t follow survey protocol.
Escobar vouches that the research
was done accurately and correctly. He said
he presented his survey to the Institutional
Review Board which is a part of the Office
of Research and Sponsored Projects.
“If they [IRB] say its good to go,
your research is good to go,” he said.
What Escobar didn’t understand was
that research representing SGA needs a
different approval first. According to that
group’s policies, any measurement that
the student government wants to take
needs support from University Relations
Committee support and the senate.
Committees within SGA must meet on a
topic, and then go through the process for
methods to be approved.
According to Villarreal, the gradu-
ate senator took it upon himself to con-
duct the survey without going through
the proper SGA authorization.
“It was a survey that SGA had been
talking about, but it hadn’t been dis-
cussed to say, ‘yes go to that office and
have them put the survey up for us,’”
Villarreal said. “We didn’t find out until
after it had been put up on Bronc Notes.
We were very confused about it.”
Matamoros said he was never against
the survey, but that it didn’t go through the
correct process to get authorized.
“If this is something students think
is important, then we’ll support it,”
Matamoros said. “My thing is that this
was distracting from bigger issues.”
An ethical conduct violation, stem-
ming from a separate incident, also
prompted a committee meeting on
Escobar, Villarreal said. The meeting
eventually resulted in his removal from
SGA on Sept. 20, by a vote of 13 to 0,
with 4 abstaining from voting. But the
matter didn’t die there.
Escobar appealed the senate’s deci-
sion, saying there was no removal
process in the constitution: he said that it
states a senator can be removed only if
they have an excessive number of
absences, or they resign.
The university Supreme Court
ruled in favor of Escobar, reinstating
him on Nov. 29. Villarreal said that they
have moved on from the incident and
while in office he will support all
research and surveys, as long as they are
properly conducted.
HORROR continued from page 3
SPRING continued from page 3
NEWSPage 12 December 5, 2007
“I will probably up it up during
finals week by a can because more than
likely I’ll be getting less sleep,” said
Infante.
According to Jimin Yang, dietician
professor at UTPA, different types of
Vitamin B found in energy drinks break
down proteins that help increase energy.
The substance itself isn’t necessarily bad,
but the effect on each person is different.
Before many items hit the market
they must first be approved by the FDA,
but Yang said that even then these drinks
should be consumed in moderation.
“Even if you keep drinking coffee
and stay up all night long for six or seven
consecutive days... it wouldn’t help,” she
said. “Our brain needs rest to function
continuously to remember things.”
According to Yang, energy can be
obtained in a healthier, natural way as
opposed to artificial energy. By getting
an adequate amount of sleep (8 hours),
drinking plenty of water to keep hydrat-
ed, eating foods high in protein, getting
30 minutes of exercise and having at
least six ounces of carbohydrates can
help provide natural energy along with a
healthier lifestyle.
According to Yang, exercise is one
of the most important factors when it
comes to obtaining energy.
A HEALTHIER APPROACHJacque Adams, fitness and wellness
coordinator for the Wellness and
Recreational Center, said seeing the
physical and mental change in people is
what that she loves most about her job.
Adams, who started working at the cen-
ter this semester, sees the importance in
both doing great in classes while doing
your body at the same time.
“That‘s why I got into this business
because I love helping these people in a
personal way, being part of the change,”
she said. “I think everyone has their own
niche in fitness...racquetball, basketball,
going on a walk; it’s just a matter of
finding it.”
According to Adams, exercising
regularly can help lower the risk of high
blood pressure and high cholesterol lev-
els along with preventing diseases like
diabetes and heart disease — all while
increasing energy.
Adams said she understands that
time is scarce during stressful times,
but wants students to know said they
don’t need a “five-mile run,” or a trip
to the gym in order to lose weight and
increase stamina. Simple home exer-
cises like walking the dog, jumping
jacks or yoga can help keep a person fit
and energized.
Johnny Nieto, a 20-year-old CIS
major from Port Isabel has been working
out since he was in junior high and said
that the exercise alternative is much bet-
ter then drinking an excess amount of
any type of energy drink.
“I’m really active after working
out,” he said. “I usually get this high
energy for four or five hours after my
work out and then I begin to get sleepy.”
Nieto, who works out twice a
week, encourages anyone who is look-
ing for that boost in energy to get a
well-balanced exercise, consisting of
cardiovascular exercise as well as
weight lifting.
ENERGY continued from page 3
director of planning and construction for
the Physical Plant said there will be no
major construction occurring after the
winter break but the remodeling of
buildings will continue.
“We will continue our facility
renewal projects that include the
replacement or repining of brick on
older buildings,” Boland said. These
include buildings that were constructed
in the 70s.
“The Business Building will be in
progress and we will be starting some
work on HPE I during that time frame so
some of the areas around these buildings
might be fenced but should not impair
student movement,” Boland said.
The old Computer Center located in
front of the student union will also be
completely remodeled. The new construc-
tion on campus will begin mid-late 08.
“That will be the Academic
Performing Arts Complex presently
scheduled to go near Jackson Road and
Highway 107,” Boland said. He added
that the good news is the construction
will provide 800 new parking spaces
adjacent to Jackson Road with direct
access to shuttle services.
As for the planned fine arts com-
plex, one year of planning still awaits.
Dahlia Guerra, dean for the
College of Arts and Humanities, said
that next year will be a year of prepara-
tion.
“We will be gathering input from
the community all year and will be hold-
ing town hall meetings,” Guerra said. “I
think at the end of the year we’ll break
ground.”
Guerra said it is still not certain
what the fine arts complex will offer
UTPA students but says that it will be an
academic and performing arts center.
Construction may start as soon as the
end of 2008.
on the mirror the next day and I don’t
have so much on my mind,” he said.
Alanis is not alone with his share of
test-taking horrors. Victoria Villarreal, a
junior English major from Edinburg, had
an experience that left her running home
to cry.
“It was for a college algebra class,
and it was a midterm,” Villarreal said.
“The exam was more based on the sec-
ond part of what we had covered, and I
went over the first. I only knew one
question out of 13.”
Instead of answering one question
on the exam, Villarreal simply left the
test blank and turned it in.
“Now, I need to pay more attention
to the syllabus,” she said. “It was right in
front of me.”
A senior biology major who wished
to remain anonymous had a car accident
the day of her Anatomy 1 midterm.
“I hit a car from behind and my
headlight was gone, the fender was dent-
ed and I got a $190 ticket,” the La Joya
native said. “I called my T.A. and
explained. She was really nice about it.”
“It was the worst thing that hap-
pened to me on a test day,” the student
said.
Kenneth Summy, associate pro-
fessor for the biology department, has
heard too many of the same excuses on
test days.
“[The excuses] are mainly about
oversleeping and car trouble. If [the
excuse] is not legitimate, I don’t buy it,”
Summy said. “If they just forgot to come
or overslept, that is not legit.”
Summy remembers a student’s
experience that was genuine enough.
“A guy couldn’t take his test
because he was in jail,” Summy said. “I
believe he was calling from jail too.”
“He ended up dropping the class,
but he was honest about it though.”
Nallely Lozano, a junior nursing
major, has learned to never be under-pre-
pared for a test, keeping her backpack
well stocked.
“I’ve heard that people bring a
Scantron (on a test day) and notice they
don’t have the correct one. [So] I have
all types of Scantrons in my back pack to
be honest and I carry about three
mechanical pencils and two regular ones
along with a sharpener, hole-puncher
and a stapler” she said.
recover from major heart surgery. On
Sept. 11, Cardenas released a memo
naming VP/Provost Paul Sale acting
chief financial officer while she recov-
ered from the bypass surgery.
Recovering from major surgery can
take months, but for Cardenas a little
over six weeks was enough to get her
moving just in time for the dedication of
the Wellness and Recreation Sports
Complex Oct. 30. Cardenas, who sport-
ed workout wear along with other
administrators, showed the campus com-
munity that her strength was in full
throttle as she cut the ribbon to the $1.5
million wellness center.
The celebration was dedicated to
UTPA students for their insistent effort
in requesting a new wellness center, and
for the students of years to come.
“This is a real celebration for the
students of UTPA who initiated the
effort that made this building a reality,”
said Cardenas.
State Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa
and State Rep. Aaron Pena also attended
the celebration, as they were contribu-
tors who made the realization of the
facility possible, according to Cardenas.
But that was not the only instance
where political figures appeared for
events on campus this semester.
This fall a number of prominent
national and world leaders, including a
Nobel Peace Prize recipient and a con-
temporary environmental activist, came
to Edinburg to promote education, glob-
alization and consideration of environ-
mental issues.
During Hispanic Engineering
Science and Technology Week, the first
female U.S. Speaker of the House, Nancy
Pelosi recognized the university’s attempt
in making this nation a better place to
study, work and live for Hispanics.
“I’m here to tell you how impor-
tant what you are doing is to the securi-
ty, economic strength, the health and
wellbeing, and preservation of the beau-
tiful environment of our country,” she
said. “Science is the key.”
She also mentioned her Innovation
Agenda; numerous proposals introduced
to keep America at the top as the world’s
best economy. One proposal is to gener-
ate scholarships aimed at benefiting
100,000 up-and-coming scientists,
mathematicians and engineers in the
“It is very important that, as we go
forth with any science agenda, that we
do so involving all the children of
America,” Pelosi said. “This region,
because of HESTEC, has become a
hotbed, a place that reverberates, one
that we hear across the country -- a
leader for the future.”
Contributing to the roll of impor-
tant and influential people visiting the
South Texas corner of the earth was
Mikhail Gorbachev, who came in early
October for the Distinguished Speakers
Series. His speech concentrated on the
importance of adopting globalization for
a chance for countries to live in peace
and agreement.
Gorbachev, the last leader of the
Soviet Union before its collapse in 1991,
briefly stated his opinion regarding the
border wall when asked about his views
toward its necessity.
Political science professor John
Bokina thinks having Gorbachev as a
speaker this semester was something
definitely honorable to the university.
He drew a crowd of approximately
1,400 people, Bokina noted.
Although the Russian politician
drew 200 people more than the keynote
speaker for International Week, Robert
F. Kennedy, Jr., Bokina said the latter
seemed to have a bigger impact on his
students.
“Many of my students who attend-
ed were energized by (RFK Jr’s) speech
to become more actively involved in
environmental issues,” he said.
In Bokina’s opinion, Kennedy
anchored the most successful
International Week in the history of the
Office of International Programs.
Students tended to agree.
This is “something to be proud of,”
junior anthropology major Julio Vargas
said. “Now, we should focus on getting
more respected people here to speak to
us, to surpass our growing standards in
terms of getting renowned, [nationally
and internationally].”
Robert Hays, a lecturer in politi-
cal science, said the Distinguished
Speakers Series line-up this semester
was excellent, and above all, beneficial
for students.
“The series offers an excellent
opportunity for students, faculty, staff
and the general public to hear perspec-
tives by individuals who have made a
difference in this country or abroad,” he
said. “I believe the series will enhance
our university’s stature, in the sense that
it is being recognized nationwide as a
leader for the growing successful
Hispanic community.”
REVIEW continued from page 3STRESS continued from page 1are times where we can’t really deal with
everything at once; we try to balance all
of these different tasks at once,” he
noted. “At some point you have to say,
‘What are the most important things that
I have to get done?’”
Patti Koo, a physician’s assistant at
the school’s Student Health Services
department, said people also need to
exercise to burn off stress.
“I sound like a broken record in the
clinic…exercise, exercise, exercise!”
she said. “It really helps. …Having
deadlines and feeling the burden of that
final big test or project due brings on all
kinds of self-doubting, the kind that we
all feel, but it seems to pronounce our
ever-present fears of failure. Like any-
thing in life, we must keep a balance.”
Koo said that for some, stress may
be overwhelming. And that’s when it’s
time to visit the school’s counseling
department.
“It is recommended NOT to wait
until finals time,” she said. “Listen to
your body — sleep, rest, don’t skip
meals, don’t overeat.”
It was The University of Texas-Pan
American Night at the Dodge Arena, as
200 students watched their local hockey
team, Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees, take
on their Central Hockey League rival
Laredo Bucks in what was an exciting
grudge match in front of 5,220 fans Friday.
On Friday, representatives for the
Killer Bees were on hand at UTPA’s
Student Union to hand out 200 free tick-
ets to students for the much anticipated
rivalry match.
One such student, Jacqueline Garcia,
stood at the front of the line for 45 minutes
as she patiently waited to get her hands on
a ticket; for her it was more than finding
something to do on a Friday night.
“It’s pretty fun, I’ve been to some of
their games. I just like it when they fight,
that’s why a lot of people go. It’s a free
night so I’m going to take advantage,” said
the mechanical engineering sophomore
who received notice for the event through
Bronc notes and several signs on campus.
But the heated match fell into the
hands of the Bucks as Laredo defenseman
Paul Elliot’s game-winning goal at 17:31
gave the Bucks a 2-1 lead that sealed the
deal for the Killer Bees for the evening.
With the win, the Bucks pulled
ahead in the Southeast Division stand-
ings by 16 points. The Bees maintain the
No. 2 spot in the division by a nine-point
margin over Corpus Christi.
“This is always an exciting
matchup between these two teams,” said
Nathaniel De La Cruz, a pre-med biolo-
gy major. “I’ve had a great time tonight
with my friends and I would like to
thank UTPA and the Dodge Arena for
making this possible for all of us.”
RGV coach Paul Fixter believed his
team played hard but would not go into
much detail why his team seems to get the
short end of the stick against its CHL foe.
“We’re fine. We lost another hock-
ey game,” Fixter said. “We played a hell
of a hockey game, and we lost. You
know there’s going to be a winner and
loser. We want to be the winner. Tonight
we weren’t.”
Elliot’s game-winning goal was his
second this year and couldn’t have come
at a better time as he crept up from the
blue line and received a pass from
Laredo forward Jeff Bes. Elliot beat
RGV goaltender Jeff Van Nynatten who
had 29 saves in the game.
“I thought we deserve better. I think
it was pretty clear who the better team
was,” said Van Nynatten. “A guy who
doesn’t score a lot of goals for them is in
a position he’s not usually in for whatev-
er reason, and they just got a lucky one.
We controlled them all night. They were
getting nothing against us. We were right
in the game, and you can’t ask for much
more effort from those guys.”
The Bees desperately tried to tie
the game with little less than two min-
utes to work with until the final buzzer
went off. RGV sent an extra man to
press the action in front of the Laredo
net, leaving their goal exposed.
The strategy almost worked with
18 seconds remaining, but the Bees were
stopped after a right-leg save by Laredo
goaltender Dustin Traylen, who made 25
stops in the game.
Despite the effort, it wasn’t good
enough to get over the hump of defeat-
ing their nemesis and it seems that recent
history has shown that Laredo Bucks
have gotten the Killer Bees number, hav-
ing gone 7-5-2 in the regular season last
year and 5-0 this year.
The Killer Bees will have another
shot at redemption when they travel to
Laredo to snap the losing streak against
the Bucks on Dec. 31.
� HOCKEY
By DANNY GARZAThe Pan American
Killer Bees host UTPA night, lose 2-1 to LaredoHockey teamgives 200 ticketsto UTPA students
SPORTSDecember 5, 2007 Page 13
Photos by Onydia Garza/The Pan American
ELLIOTʼS WAY - Laredoʼs Paul Elliot charges at Killer Bee center Nick Warrier during the KillerBeesʼ UTPA night on Saturday. Laredo won the heated rivalry 2-1 on Elliotʼs game-winning goal atthe 17:31 mark, solidifying the Bucksʼ place atop the CHLʼs Southeast division.
UTPA NIGHT RIDER - Esmer Rodriguez, senior chemistry major, cleans the icewhile riding a zamboni during the Killer Beesʼ UTPA night Saturday.
REKINDLED RIVALRY - Killer Bee left wing Dennis Maxwell gives the puck some airtime as aLaredo defender watches it go by during Saturdayʼs 2-1 home loss to the Bucks. Laredo is in firstplace of the CHLʼs Southeast division with 33 points and the Killer Bees are second with 17 points.
SPORTSPage 14 December 5, 2007
It’s easy to look ahead when things
are going well. Still unbeaten at home,
and riding a slim two-game win streak,
the University of Texas-Pan American
women’s basketball team (4-2) could
very well make it four in a row.
Given the games on deck it would
be easy to slip into the ‘what could be’
trap, where teams get ahead of them-
selves and eventually drop the ball, but
don’t expect that from the Lady Broncs.
After posting a conventional beat
down and overwhelming University of
Tennessee-Martin for 38 minutes with
hot shooting, the women held on for
another home victory, 62-56, on Tuesday
at Sam Williams Court.
In that victory, LeKeisha Gray led
all scorers with a season-high 24 points
on 9 of 17 attempts from the floor,
including 6 of 13 from beyond the arc.
Tamara Vaughn added 13 while Robin
Garrett looked solid in the low blocks
with 8 points on 4-of-6 shooting.
“I think we established the tempo
very early in the game, we wanted to run
their legs because we thought it would
affect their shooting and it did,” said
UTPA women’s basketball head coach
DeAnn Craft. “I think it was simply our
defense that caused them to be short on
some shots; sometimes they couldn’t
figure out our zone pres, credit that to
our defense.”
Gray had her shooting stroke on
auto pilot early and hit timely shots,
including a trey from the top of the key
off a Vaughn assist as the clock ran dry
for a 39-21 halftime lead.
“Conversely we shot the ball dra-
matically well in the first half, luckily it
built a big enough lead because roles
reversed in the second half,” Craft said.
From a fan’s point of view, the
women - with a methodical offense,
blue-collar defense led by senior point
guard Gray - have outshined their male
counterparts early in the season.
Up next the Green and Orange-clad
women travel to Wichita, Kan., to face
off against Wichita State (3-4) on Dec. 8.
But unless the Shockers pull off the
improbable, they should come off a drub-
bing at the hands a very solid Oklahoma
State, giving the Lady Broncs the edge.
After that it would be back to the
friendly confines of the Field House
where the UTPA remains perfect for a
date with McNeese State (1-8) and it’s
easy to get excited about women’s hoops
with the prospect of going 6-2.
Still, despite the probable suc-
cess, the women’s games are still lag-
ging in attendance.
Last year around this time, the
women had little to advertise or brag
about, reeling from a six-game losing skid.
Tennessee-Martin reminded the
Lady Broncs that games are 40 minutes
long, not 38, making a push in the final
two minutes of regulation.
A 14-0 run fueled by a couple
jumpers and treys courtesy of Marie
Goyette’s hot hand cut the lead down to
60-56 with 24 seconds left. But Tiona
Wilson iced the game at the charity line
as she connected on both free throws for
a 62-56 final.
UTPA shot 47.1 percent from the
field for the game, starting on an 11-2
run which set the tempo for the remain-
der of the game. In the first 20 minutes
the Lady Broncs wreaked havoc on the
defensive end, holding Martin to 26.7
shooting percentage and 20 percent from
beyond the three-point arc.
When the University of Texas-Pan
American men’s basketball team trav-
eled to Western Illinois last Wednesday
and defeated the Bulldogs on its home
court, the purple and yellow had one
thing on their mind heading into
Monday’s rematch: revenge.
Indeed the Bulldogs exacted pay-
backs for their 72-59 loss to the Broncs
a week ago, but only after a total melt-
down by UTPA. The Green and Orange
played a solid game for 34 minutes,
holding an 11-point lead late, but could
not hold on to stave off the pesky
Bulldogs the rest of the way, losing 71-
69 at the Field House.
“I’m real disappointed in my
efforts out there,” Coach Tom
Schuberth said. “I don’t know what
happened; I’m speechless really. I was
apologetic for the fact that I really did-
n’t know what happened in that we
were just outplayed tonight…”
Still, the Bulldog’s revolt was
expected, Schuberth said.
“Good teams fight back and
Western Illinois did; they never quit,” he
said. “They were playing like they had
an 11-point lead there…We just couldn’t
get a stop when we needed to.”
With 5:51 remaining in the game,
UTPA (5-4) held an 11-point lead over
WIU and seemed well on its way to its
sixth victory of the season. Up to that
point, the Broncs had played a sound
game, responding with key baskets after
every time the Bulldogs tried to cut into
their lead. But the Purple and Yellow
never let down and went on a 21-8 run to
finish the game.
“We gave the game away,” UTPA
guard Dexter Shankle said. “We couldn’t
get a stop on defense and we didn’t make
any shots. That’s the way it goes when
you don’t play defense.”
Shankle led all scorers with 17
points on 6-of-10 shooting, including 4
of 8 from behind the arc. Zach Trader
recorded 15 points and four rebounds,
while Brian Burrell added 11 points to
go along with eight rebounds.
Guard David Jackson led the way
for Western Illinois with 22 points and
seven rebounds on 8-of-11 shooting.
Jackson was a key factor in the late surge
by the Bulldogs as he recorded eight of
the team’s last 21 points.
UTPA’s shooting percentages
decreased from the first half, which is
starting to become a usual routine every
home game. They shot 46.2 percent
from the field in the second half com-
pared to 50 percent in the first.
Unlike the Broncs, Western Illinois
shot 50 percent in the second half com-
pared to 44 in the first and also connect-
ed on 17 of their 19 free throw attempts
in the second.
“I got to give credit to them,”
Trader said. “They came in here and
keyed on a couple of our players. They
wanted it and kept fighting. It was a
tough loss. They were taking the ball off
a lot of our hands and that’s the time we
got to make plays. We got to get the ball
in our players’ hands to make plays, but
we just didn’t do it.”
MONTANA STATE TOURNEYAfter the 13-point win over WIU
last Wednesday, the men traveled to
Bozeman, Mont. to take on Pepperdine
and Alcorn State University, where they
claimed third place.
On Friday, the Broncs lost a heart-
breaker and came up just two points
short versus the Waves, 86-84, after
Malcolm Thomas scored on a lay-up in
the paint with just four seconds remain-
ing. Burrell was the leading man for
UTPA with 21 points, five rebounds, two
assists and two steals.
The Green and Orange made up
for it on Saturday with an 88-74 victory
over Alcorn State. Trader was one of
five Broncs in double-figures with a
team-high 18 points, five rebounds and
three assists.
By ERICK QUINTERO
The Pan American
Roxy Solis/The Pan American
� NCAA MEN’S BASKETBALLSPORTS
December 5, 2007 Page 15
By RAMIRO PAEZThe Pan American
Broncs lose second home tilt this season, to Bulldogs Broncs took thirdat Montana StateTournament
� NCAA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Lady Broncs improve to 4-2, buck Tennessee-Martin 62-56Gray’s season-high 24 pointskey UTPA victory
AND ONE - Junior guard Teshay Winfrey draws contact on a baseline jumper dur-ing UTPAʼs 91-33 rout of Schreiner University Saturday at the Field House.
Onydia Garza/The Pan American
BALANCING ACT - Senior shooting guard Dexter Shankle keeps his balanceon a lofty fade away. Shankle led all Broncs scorers with a season-high 17points in a 71-69 losing effort to Western Illinois University Monday in Edinburg.
2424The season-high point total
LeKeisha Gray scoredMonday night against
Tennessee-Martin
1212Number of wins the New
England Patriots have afterwinning against the RavensMonday night, 27-24. Theyneed four more wins for a
perfect 16-0 season
44Number of home wins theLady Bronc basketball teamhas. UTPA remains unbeaten
at home
22The number of losses LSU(11-2) has. They play Ohio
State (10-1) for the NationalChampionship Jan. 7
SPORTSStatsAtAGlance
Page 16 December 5, 2007THE PAN AMERICAN
� BASKETBALL
Several Fall athletic campaigns have
come to a close for UTPA and with finals
fast on the approach some athletes are
feeling the pressure.
Replacing class time with sports has
been a trying experience for some stu-
dents but most claim to be keeping afloat.
“It’s going pretty good right now but
I’ve had to manage my time and look for
time to study,” said junior cross country
standout Luis Nava. “I’ve already taken
my lab final which was the most impor-
tant one. I think I did ok.”
According to Nava, study time has
been rare on the road and athletes with
extensive traveling schedules have felt
the strain.
“I’ve studied on the road during the
trip and at the hotel after we’re done
running,” said Nava. “The coaches usu-
ally reminded us to take our books on
the trips so we could look over our stuff
for class.”
According to Bronc team members
coaching and advising staff helped out on
road trips and encouraged students to
maintain focus on their studies.
“Our coaches have to keep us in
check but it’s mostly the academic advis-
er,” said golfer Kyle Tudi. “He’s always
on us about keeping up [grades] and he
calls us if we have a problem. If we fail,
we’re not able to play in the next semes-
ter and golf is a year-round sport.”
Coaches at UTPA have seen stu-
dents taking active participation in their
courses on the road. And they claim to
encourage it.
“They want to make the grade and
do well in school,” said Head Golf Coach
Ofelia Lopez. “They know they have to
study to play.”
During traveling, student athletes are
known to miss class time. This can create
friction between professors and pupils.
Most professors, according to ath-
letes, have been supportive of the time
spent away from class. But others have
taken issue with absences.
“The teachers here are pretty good
about working with [us],” said Tudi.
“Last semester I had a problem with a
teacher about attendance and it definite-
ly affected my grade but that’s really the
only one I’ve ever had with missing class
for sports.”
Added Lopez, “Teachers want them
in class and they know that’s the only way
they’re going to learn and get the help
they need. It becomes a push and pull
where the instructors are right and the stu-
dents are right.”
Barring jam packed schedules and
student teacher issues, most athletes remain
confident in their academic abilities.
“Finals are definitely going to be
tough,” said Tudi. “But it’s going to be
fine. We’ve got a lot of stuff to do right
now but we just need to learn how to
budget our time.”
When compared with the rest of the
student body, the UTPA athletic department
has less to worry about in terms of grades.
According to a release by the uni-
versity, “the UTPA Department of
Intercollegiate Athletics GPA (2.938) is
higher than the UTPA undergraduate
GPA (2.61) for the 2005-06 academic
year and 89 student-athletes earned
Dean’s List Honors.”
25 student athletes earned perfect
4.0 grade point averages in the same
academic year.
TheySaidIt
� “This team has very lit-
tle room for error. Our com-binations are not there yetbecause of ineligiilities and
things of that nature.”- Tom Schuberth
UTPA menʼs basketball headcoach on Mondayʼs 71-69
home loss to Western Illinois
By GABRIEL SALDANAThe Pan American
� “Both Keisha and TV, Inever want them to turndown a good look.”
- DeAnn CraftUTPA womenʼs basketball head
coach on LeKeisha Gray andTamara Vaughn
