The Mesa Journal

...Award-winning newspaper for The University of Texas of the Permian Basin...
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Volume 23 · Issue 15
Spring 2005 Graduation Commencement draws crowd
Graduates leave with positive thoughts of UT Permian Basin
by Jay Gorania
Staff Writer
The end of spring semester means everything
from parties at the lake to
mission trips overseas for
some of UT Permian Basin’s
students. But in the immortal words of Alice Cooper,
“School’s out forever ” for
some students who graduated on May 7.
Commencement
took place by the grassy area
south of the Mesa Courtyard,
next to the Library at 9 a.m.
UT Permian Basin’s student
band, the Falcon Flock, performed during the processional.
Following a rendition of the national anthem
performed by Joyce Wilson,
Program Coordinator for the
JBS Leadership Institute, J.
Nick Fowler, owner of Orion
Pacific and UT Permian Basin Alumnus, delivered commencement remarks.
The event’s musical
backdrop carried on with the
Chancel Choir’s performance
of “Ubi Caritas” prior to the
presentation of degree candi-
dates and the awarding of
diplomas.
President of the
Alumni Association Lamar
Casparis then delivered a
message urging the graduating class to contribute to the
university.
William Marsh, a
graduate receiving his degree
in Humanities, is confident
that his education will allow
him to achieve his goals.
“I plan to become a
teacher. That’s what I went
for, and that’s the prize that
my eyes are on,” Marsh said.
Graduating with a
double major in Psychology
and English, Katrina Slayton
plans to pursue a career in the
social service industry.
Reflecting on her experience at UT Permian Basin, Slayton said she was
“very satisfied with [her]
classes and teachers.”
A separate ceremony
conducted entirely in Spanish was held in the Multipurpose Room of the Student
Union to ensure that the exclusively Spanish speaking
members of UT Permian
Basin’s Mexican American
graduates were able to optimally enjoy the experience.
Photo by Jay Gorania
Falcon graduates stretch their wings: Family, friends and faculty gather for the Spring 2005 Graduation ceremony.
Presenters remark on new energy policy
A Night of Poetry and Music
by Jason Navarette
Editor-in-Chief
For years, West Texas has
been known for its focus and attention to the oil and natural gas industry, as can be seen with UT Permian Basin’s Industrial Technology
program and the providing of
special programs such as the
Petroleum Industry Alliance.
However, Legislature is to review the Energy Policy Act of
2005, a bill that could add alternative resources to this focus.
In a presentation entitled “The Relevance of New
Energy Technologies on the
Permian Basin,” Dr. Richard
A. Deans and James F. Haven,
the President and Vice President of Viable Technologies
Associates, LLC, remarked on the
Energy Policy Act of 2005 and its
possible effects on the future industry of West Texas. The presentation
was held on May 19 in the UT Permian Basin Center for Energy and
Economic Diversification (CEED)
and was free of charge.
In introducing the presentation, UT Permian Basin President
Dr. W. David Watts said that the
U.S. oil industry peaked in 1973.
Because of this, he continued, it may
be necessary to find alternative
sources of energy.
Dr. Watts stated, “[Alternative energy] may be just as im-
portant for our economy, as well as
the world’s.”
The U.S. is an oil and gas
nation, stated Haven, adding,
“We’re going to run out of oil pretty
darn soon.”
According to Haven, “The
Energy Policy Act of 2005 seeks con-
saying, “A consortium member
must have a clear view of what’s in
it for them. They must have ingenuity and a little perseverance . . . .
Many technological opportunities
exist for the people in the Permian
Basin . . . . [The Permian Basin] will
benefit because of jobs and money.”
There are many alternative
resources that must be researched, said Dr. Deans. The
list of resources includes electric energy, renewable resources such as wind energy,
onshore and offshore recovery and nuclear energy. Potential funding from the Energy Policy Act of 2005 could
also cover research in energy
efficiency in buildings and
vehicles.
Dr. Deans noted that hydrogen is one alternative resource being researched. He stated
that a hydrogen economy could be
much more efficient and profitable
than oil and natural gas.
“It’s gonna take a lot to go
from where we are to that kind of
economy,” said Dr. Deans.
Dr. Deans concluded the
presentation with a warning, however.
He said, “The important
thing is don’t fight Mother Nature—
Mother Nature will always win.”
For more information regarding CEED or the programs it
offers, call CEED Director Dr. Bob
Trentham at (432)552-2432.
“The important thing is don’t
fight Mother Nature—Mother
Nature will always win.”
- Dr. Richard A. Deans,
President of Viable
Technologies Associates, LLC
Photo by Todd Richardson
Poet Nancy Thorne reads her original works during Poetry Night,
hosted by Sigma Tau Delta and Sandstorm.
sortia to conduct energy technology
research, development and commercialization . . . . This will be a
business-driven consortium, and
people in it need to be in a common
mind of what they want to accomplish.”
Haven suggested that each
consortium or association should
research and develop alternative
sources of energy. Should Legislature approve the bill, organizations
researching alternative resources
could receive millions of dollars for
their past and future efforts, said
Haven.
Dr. Deans added to this by
UT Permian Basin hosts presentations on Communication
Lecturer
discusses
by Jason Navarette
Editor-in-Chief
Dr. Brian C. Brantley presented a lecture on “Sports, Race,
Media, and Society” on June 6 as
part of his application for an Assistant Professorship position in Communication at UT Permian Basin.
He recently graduated from
the University of Alabama in
Tuscaloosa with a PhD. in Mass
race
in
Communication concentrating in
media theory and processes and effects. His cognate area is in media
and public opinion.
His lecture was based on
his dissertation—entitled “Professional baseball in Black and White:
A content analysis of the 2003 season”—which he defended this April.
Brantley discussed the notion that sports journalism, unlike
other forms of journalism, is rarely
analyzed.
sports
journalism
“Given that less than half a
dozen empirical studies have been
performed in the area, it would
seem that sports coverage is regarded as neutral by the academy
much as it seems to be by the general public,” he said.
Rather than sifting through
mountains of scholarly journals
and books, Brantley originally
chose to delve into his area of research through his observations as
a football fan…not your typical
armchair quarterback.
“What got me pointed toward the general area of race in
sports coverage was that…I kept
noticing that Michael Vick, quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, was
still referred to by some journalists
as being a ‘black quarterback,’”
Brantley said. “That made me conscious of a distinct lack of references
Helen Sun, a visiting Assistant Professor for Humanities and
Fine Arts, held a presentation entitled “What’s on tonight?” on May
25 in room MB4250. The presentation, which covered Sun’s history
and research in mass communication, was free of charge and open to
the public.
“Communications is a very
broad field,” stated Sun, adding that
it includes such areas of study as
mass communication, personal
communication and interpersonal
communication.
Mass media plays such a
vital role in today’s society, said Sun,
that individuals spend about 40
percent of their time using media.
She said, “Obviously, we
cannot live without mass media . . .
. Mass media plays an important
role in our lives.”
Sun suggested that the importance of mass media, when
combined with the increase of users, leads to many debates—debates
covering freedom of the press, terrorism, privacy and national security.
One such debated topic is
the Patriot Act of 2001, which has
lent a hand in the widening of the
Digital Divide, according to Sun.
“Digital Divide” is a term referring
Professor offers
insight into Cinco de
Mayo...
page 2a
See Sports Media, p. 4a
Visiting Professor presents research on Mass Media
by Jason Navarette
Editor-in-Chief
Inside
The MJ
to the social gaps within society
caused by the increasing role of
computers.
During the presentation,
Sun described her past research in
Internet policy and regulation, the
Digital Divide and media-government relationships in the East and
West.
Sun suggested that there
See Mass Media, p. 4a
Review of latest Star
Wars episode...
page 3a
Falcon Sports
2004-2005
standings...
page 4a
Orientation Special...
pages 1b-2b
Page 2a, The Mesa Journal
Into the Wilderness
Welcome to UT Permian Basin
Summer is finally upon
us! To some, summer is a time
of recreation and fun. To others
it is a time to burn the proverbial midnight oil (no, not the
band) of the academic year
through intensive summ er
courses. Another group finds the
summer to be a time to prepare
for their adventures in higher
education.
Jason
I, on behalf of The Mesa
Navarette
Journal,
would like to extend a
Editor-in-Chief
warm welcome to each freshman and prospective student
visiting our UT Permian Basin campus. Please take
advantage of the Freshman Orientation programs being offered in the Student Union during the summer.
These programs will help you get started on your academic journey—a journey that will provide you with
the learning, camaraderie and sense of community that
composes any healthy, well-balanced educational diet.
Be sure to take a look at the “Freshman Orientation” special in this and upcoming summer issues of
The Mesa Journal. Also check out this issue’s “Campus
Spotlight,” which features some of the student services
the university has to offer, such as the University Writing Center located in room MB2100.
I encourage you to participate in The Mesa Journal, the award-winning student newspaper of UT Permian Basin. This is your paper! If you enjoy writing or
taking pictures, feel free to call The MJ at (432)5522659, email [email protected] or drop by the office in room MB2138 of the Student Union. If you
would like to review a movie, restaurant or video game,
this is your chance to let your voice be heard. Come
join The Mesa Journal! As always, if you have any questions, concerns or feedback regarding The MJ, feel free
to let us know. After all, this is your newspaper.
Take an active role in your newspaper, your
education and your life. Join a club or organization.
Become a member of the Student Senate. Be a hero
and volunteer. Utilize the facilities on and off campus.
Right at this moment, you are at a great crossroads of life. The choices you make now will set you
upon the path which will inevitably lead you to your
destiny. Choose understanding, choose education,
choose your future. Choose UT Permian Basin.
Opinion/Editorial
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Letters to the Editor
Student applauds new Mesa Journal format
I just wanted to say that I think you’re doing a great job with the paper. I’ve noticed many changes
since you’ve become editor. I especially like the new campus spotlight. It lets me know about parts of the
school that I’ve never heard about before (like the University Counseling Center and Psychological Services).
I’d also like to pat all of you on the back for winning some more awards. I think that’s great.
Please keep up the good work and continue winning awards. I’ve always enjoyed reading The
Mesa Journal, and I look forward to seeing what else you have in store for the paper.
Jessica Thomas
Sophomore
History
Professor commends The Mesa Journal’s efforts
I would like to commend The Mesa Journal for its commitment to UT Permian Basin’s diverse
student makeup, particularly the Mexican American population. The article titled “Cinco de Mayo: The
history behind the Mexican celebration” was informative, but contained a few factual errors.
1. The name of the battle was spelled incorrectly: “pueblo” is a generic term that means small
town. The battle took place in the city of Puebla.
2. The article states “...on Sept. 16, 1810, Mexico won its independence from Spain.” Although,
Mexico’s Independence Day is celebrated to commemorate the activities of September 16, 1810, Mexico
did not obtain its independence on this date. This date marks the beginning of the independence movement. Independence was not achieved until February 1821.
3. President Benito Juárez’s name was spelled incorrectly: without an accent over the “a.” In English this is a minimal error, but in Spanish it is very significant.
4. The article states “President Juarez was overthrown and replaced by Archduke Ferdinand
Maximilian of Austria.” Although Juárez had to flee Mexico City when the French arrived in 1863, his
administration was not overthrown nor was he captured. He fled northward where he remained free and
conducted his administration’s affairs in exile. Essentially, during the French occupation Mexico had two
governments, as the case often is during civil wars (the French were supported by Mexican conservative
forces).
Jaime R. Aguila, PhD.
Assistant Professor of History
UT Permian Basin
Do you love to write? Do you love to take pictures?
If so, then come join The Mesa Journal,
the award-winning student newspaper of
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin!
For more information, feel free to call (432)552-2659,
email [email protected], or drop by the office in room
MB2138 of the Student Union.
The Mesa Journal
e-mail: [email protected]
STAFF
4901 E. University Blvd.
Odessa, TX 79762
Phone: (432) 552-2659
Fax: (432) 552-2660
Editor-in-Chief: Jason Navarette
Assistant Editor: Isidro Gonzales
Business Manager: Tony Testerment
Advisor: Becki Murphy
Staffwriters: Nancy Aguirre, Ben Campbell, Alex Carpenter, Martin
Chabarria, Luke Garrett, Isidro Gonzales, Jay Gorania, Malissa Greenwood,
Lauren Johnson, Deandra Martinez, Monica Murguia, Marcella Pettus, Tony
Prather, Alex Smith, Joshua Smith, Jessica Thomas, Jhared Thomas, Owen
Wallace-Servera, Veronica Villarreal
Layout and Design: Jason Navarette
Photographers: Jay Gorania
General Information
The Mesa Journal is a student publication that provides information, commentary and entertainment for The University
of Texas of the Permian Basin community. Editorial statements and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the
opinion of the UT Permian Basin administration.
Letter Policy
All contributions, in good taste, will be edited for grammar, spelling, length (250 minimum), libel, profanity and
personal attacks. All letters must contain the author’s name, major, academic classification and contact information.
This information can be withheld upon request. Electronic copies of articles and letters are preferred.
[email protected]
Mission Statement
The Mesa Journal is designed to inform, entertain, educate and heighten awareness of students, faculty and administrators at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin. Staff members will be responsible journalists by maintaining
high ethical standards with fairness, accuracy and balance.
Inside the Orientation Special...
Letter from the President
Dear Prospective Student,
Welcome to The University of Texas of the Permian Basin. All of us who teach, work and learn at U.T.
Permian Basin are excited that you are here. As a part
of The University of Texas System, UT Permian Basin
has earned a great reputation for quality and for supporting its students. With our small faculty-student ratio, you are assured the opportunity to work with faculty on a personal basis. To help you excel at the highest possible level, we offer the Writing Center, Math
and Science Center and Supplemental Instruction,
where your success is their job.
Falcon Athletics are becoming even more exciting with the addition of cross country, basketball, swimming and baseball. These sports are joining a very competitive athletic roster at UT Permian Basin. There are
lots of activities for students in Housing, the Student
Union and with our Program Board events. And there
are plenty of clubs for students to join.
UT Permian Basin has some real advantages to offer students:
· We give personal attention to our students.
· Our faculty is excellent and cares about students.
· We have new housing with more on the way.
· We provide a quality education experience.
Housing at U.T. Permian Basin is even more exciting. The six new apartment buildings opened last year
and the Clubhouse promise students a really great home
away from home. Every student will have a private
bedroom in an apartment with living room, full kitchen
facilities, free utilities and internet. Each building has
laundry facilities. The Clubhouse has a workout room,
a video theater, study rooms and computers for students. At UT Permian Basin Housing, you get your privacy, while living with other students in an environment with lots of things to do.
Six more apartment buildings with one and two
bedroom units are under construction now. We have
housing for families as well as single students.
We want you to come and be a part of UT Permian
Basin. It’s a great university in a great place to live.
Year in Review, page 2b
Fall 2005 Schedule
Registration Begins ------------------------------------------Extended Registration Hours
(9 a.m. - 7 p.m.) -------------------------------------Classes Begin --------------------------------------------------First Day of Late Registration -----------------------------First Day of Adds/Drops ------------------------------------Last Day of Late Registration -----------------------------Last Day to Add a Course ----------------------------------Labor Day Holiday
(classes dismissed/offices closed) ----------------Last Day to Drop a Course with 100% Refund -------Last Day to Drop
(without creating an academic record) -------Last Day to File for Graduation --------------------------Last Day to Withdraw or Drop* -------------------------Last Day to Submit Master’s Thesis
or Projects to Committee -------------------------Last Day to Add Self-Paced Courses --------------------Last Day to Take Oral Exams
(graduate students) ---------------------------------Thanksgiving Holiday Begins at 10 p.m. --------------Thanksgiving Holiday --------------------------------------Last Regular Class Day -------------------------------------Last Day to Submit Final Master’s Thesis
or Project to Graduate Studies Office -------------------Final Examinations ------------------------------------------End of Fall Semester -----------------------------------------Commencement -----------------------------------------------
April 1
August 17 & 18
August 22
August 22
August 22
August 30
August 30
September 5
September 7
September 7
September 30
October 24
November 4
November 4
November 22
November 22
November 22 - 25
December 2
December
December
December
December
2
5-8
9
10
UT Permian Basin Clubs/Organizations
(Part One of Three)
Accounting and Business Association (ABA)
The ABA promotes fellowship, leadership and interaction among the students, business faculty and the community.
Sincerely,
W. David Watts
President
Letter from the
Director of Student Life
Dear UT Permian Basin students:
Welcome to The University of Texas of the Permian Basin! Each year the Office of Student Life works
hard to put together a full schedule of events and activities to help you get involved on the UT Permian Basin
campus. From the Fall Festival to the Friday Night
Karaoke Nights to the Homecoming Activities of the
spring semester, we make sure that all of our programs
offer something for everybody.
This office is here to help you round out your
education. There are over 40 student organizations on
campus to help you network with other UT Permian
Basin students. If you would like to serve as an officer
to a student group or if you want to serve as an active
member or volunteer, I am sure there is an organization that will suit your interests. If you would like to
start an organization, please let us know so that we can
help you get the process going.
Organizations like the Student Senate, the Student Program Board, the Orientation Leaders Association and the Volunteer Center will help you develop
your skills as a leader. Other opportunities will involve
a first hand understanding of Roberts Rules of Order
and experiences which will enhance your communication and people skills.
As you progress through your higher education,
I want to encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities that are here for you on our campus and to
take ownership of the traditions that are even now being established for future generations.
If you have an idea for any program or initiative
please come by to see us in the Student Union. I look
forward to your visit.
Bilingual Education
Student Organization (BESO)
Geology Club
Membership is extended to all who believe in bilingual education and who want to promote this awareness to the community at large. Contact club Advisor
Dr. Lara at [email protected].
The Geology Club promotes interest in geology and
cultivates professional geological interests. It also takes
frequent field trips to various areas of geological
interests. Call club Advisor Dr. Stoudt at (432)5522246.
Kinesiology Club
Black Student Organization (BSO)
The BSO promotes civic involvement in order to empower the Black community by providing informative resources and mentorship. They hold an annual
fashion show. Contact club President Christina
Fullbright at (432)889-3826.
The Kinesiology club is here to enhance the
professional development of those students interested
in the field of kinesiology. Email club President
Lindsey Schmidt at [email protected] or call
(432)552-0449.
Catholic Student Association
League of United Latin American Citizens
(LULAC) Young Adults
The CSA’s goal is to develop Christian leadership in
the church and elsewhere including UTPB. They provide weekly Bible study and fellowship. Email club
President Crystal Castillo at [email protected]..
LULAC Young Adults works to bring about positive
social and economic changes for Hispanic students at
UT Permian Basin. Email club President Christine
Salazar at [email protected] or call (432)550-3491.
Note: Club Information contributed by Rolando J. Diaz, Director of Student Life
Freshman Falcon Checklist
Apply at UT Permian Basin
Register for Classes
Meet with Academic Advisor
Get a Student UID
Register for THEA Test
Get Parking Permit
Apply for Financal Aid
Get to Know the Campus
Sincerely,
Rolando J. Diaz, M.A.
Director
UTPB Student Life
Have Fun!
Year In Review
Page 2b, The Mesa Journal
Summer 2005
UT Permian Basin sets sights on da Vinci bridge
$40,000 grant offered for Leonardo Bridge Project
by Isidro Gonzales
Staff Writer
In an attempt to
demonstrate a commitment
to the arts and sciences, the
UT Permian Basin will construct a bridge that was the
brainchild of Leonardo da
Vinci, the painter of the Mona
Lisa. This bridge was to be
built in present day Istanbul,
Turkey, spanning the Golden
Horn inlet on the Bosporus
River in 1502 to honor Sultan Bejazet II, but due to the
fact that this bridge would
take about 500 years to complete, the plan was scrapped.
The Leonardo Bridge
Project, the organization responsible for bringing the
bridge to fruition, along with
its main architect VebjØrn
Sand, has undertaken the
task to have the bridge built
on every continent. Europe
already has one; the “Golden
Horn” stands in Oslo, Norway. UT Permian Basin will
be the site for the North
American version of the
bridge.
Prior to Sand coming
to UT Permian Basin on Jan.
25, a university press release
noted Sand’s immense interest in Leonardo da Vinci’s
bridge. Sand was captivated
by the simplicity and eloquence of the design. The
Leonardo Bridge Project melds
art through its symmetry
and poetic power, and science
through its innovative engineering and mathematical
principles.
According to Rick
Dempsey, Assistant Vice
President for Facilities Management Physical Plant, the
genesis of this project was a
desire to add a spur on to the
existing Hike and Bike Trail.
Dempsey said, “This would
access the pond behind the
Fire
Station
on
University…The intent was
to provide a short walk for
children and those who are
less mobile.”
Dempsey said that
Dr. W. David Watts, UT Permian Basin’s President, received a suggestion from local community members
that UT Permian Basin
should investigate the build-
ing of the bridge.
“This proposal was
added… for a grant from the
Texas Department of Parks
and
Wildlife,”
stated
Dempsey. The university received a $40,000 grant for the
project.
Student Senator Ami
Magallenez said, “I think it is
a wonderful opportunity to
show not only Odessa, but
the world, how committed
UTPB is to art and science …
[I]t will be amazing to be able
to say that we were the second. I think that along with
our Stonehenge replica,
Odessa will have the ability
to attract tourists from all
over the United States.”
Iris Fierro, also a Student Senator, said she thinks
it would be something ben-
eficial for the university.
“I think it is something that will add a positive
appearance,” said Fierro.
Dempsey stated that
presently there are two sites
under consideration.
“The original site [is]
near the Fire Station and a
second [is] across the Main
Avenue entrance near the
Ellen Noel Art Museum,”
Dempsey said.
“I think that the
bridge should be built on the
entrance to the university,
only because if it is behind the
fire department it will not be
as visible,” Magallenez said.
“This is something Odessa
should be proud of, and I
think that if the bridge is built
at the entrance, it will have
the opportunity to be the
Student Volunteer Center opens,
a dream becomes reality
Summer Graduation Ceremony 2004
by Isidro Gonzales
Staff Writer
Courtesy Photo
Gymnasium packed for Commencement: Faculty and families look on as graduates cross the stage during
the 2004 Summer Graduation ceremony.
Students gather at CEED building for The Debate
by Deandra Martinez
Staff Writer
In front of a crowd that exceeded the capacity of UT Permian
Basin’s CEED building, the Presidential Museum sponsored student
debate, simply entitled The Debate:
Presidential Election 2004, was held
between 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct.
21.
CBS-7’s Tatum Hubbard
moderated the debate between the
“Bush” and “Kerry” teams that
were selected by the Republican
and Democratic parties of Midland
and Odessa.
The Bush team included
Kenneth L. Burgess of UT Permian
Basin; Joshua Nino of Odessa College, and Nicholas Crumrine, Francisco Villa, Gloriana Hernandez,
Marihya Rackley and James Snelson
of Midland College.
In addition to Midland
College’s Richard Lopez, the Kerry
team members included UT Permian Basin’s Alexis Milmine,
Michelle Pfalzgraf, Laura Phillips,
Tracie Dulin and Robert Nnake.
Nnake, a sophomore majoring in Pre-Medicine and Biology,
commended Crystal Barrios, the
coordinator of The Debate: Presidential Election 2004, for her organization of the event.
“More people came that I
thought would, so kudos to [Crystal Barrios],” Nnake said.
“When I got home [after
the debate] I thought we could have
prepared for things differently, but
you can never really prepare fully
for something like that,” Nnake
added. “And for all of us, except for
one [of us], it was our first debate.
So for at least half the debate, I was
trying to get over seeing all of the
Bush-Cheney [supporters].”
According to Barrios, who
is also the Vice President of UT Permian Basin’s Student Senate, the
debate met the high expectations
first impression of the university that some people get.
What if we could have our
stadium modeled after the
Coliseum? Very unlikely, but
it would be a good way to
continue our ‘European
Flair.’”
According
to
Dempsey, the start date is
unclear. “The start date is
very uncertain as major
funding from the community
and cooperate sponsors is
needed before a final site and
design can be selected,” stated
Dempsey.
Construction time
will be based on the final design.
Dempsey stated that anyone
interested in contributing to
the project should contact
Kay Bivens at (432) 552-2802.
she had when she had initially generated the event’s concept.
Amanda Stark, an attendee
who is a freshman majoring in
Mathematics, stated that “the two
sides were well prepared. However,
rather than attacking the issues,
they attacked the candidate. The
Kerry-Edwards side focused on
Bush’s ‘lie’ to go to war. The BushCheney side focused on Kerry’s ‘flipflop.’”
The Bush team was
coached by former Midland Mayor
J.D. Faircloth, City of Midland Attorney Chad Weaver, and Midland
College Professor Todd Hoack. The
Kerry team was coached by UT Permian Basin Professor Gary
McCullough, Midland College Professor Joseph Willis, and the President of Midland’s Democratic
Women organization, Gloria Grier.
Barrios hopes that area colleges will
start a tradition by holding a similar debate in time for the next presidential election.
The Student Volunteer Center was a dream that
was made a reality in April.
Patterned after the UT Austin Volunteer Center, the UT
Permian Basin Volunteer
Center opened its doors due
in part to the tireless efforts
of Lisa and Gloria Galvan,
two members of the Sociology Club. After much fact
finding, several students and
faculty members—including
Lisa and Gloria and Dr. Carol
Traut and Dr. Michael
Osterburh—formed a Board
of Directors to put the plan of
establishing a Volunteer Center on campus into action.
The mission of the
Student Volunteer Center
(SVC) is to assist, encourage,
and facilitate students and
student organizations/clubs
to volunteer, strengthen ties
with community agencies
and expand service learning
on campus. The SVC encourages all UT Permian Basin
professors to promote
volunteerism by placing
some sort of community service aspect into their sylla-
bus.
Due to the SVC’s unforeseen resignation of
Danielle Pepper, the newly
named coordinator, the
Board quickly met to discuss
contingency plans for a replacement. The board decided that a temporary replacement would be chosen
from the board members,
and they unanimously
elected Lisa Galvan as coordinator. A permanent replacement will be hired prior
to the beginning of Spring
semester.
The board also hired
Brittany Nimmons as the
SVC’s Assistant Coordinator.
Additionally, Nerissa Brooks
and Gloria Galvan will be
acting as Permanent Volunteers.
In related news, the
SVC held its Volunteer Signup Day in conjunction with
the Program Board’s Club
Day. Area non-profit organizations constituted 54 of the
86 tables at the event.
If you are interested
in volunteering or fulfilling
community service hours for
the freshmen seminar course,
See SVC, p. 4a
Religious Rites
Student Senate votes to support tuition increase
by Tony Prather
Staff Writer
Tuition at UT Permian Basin will be rising this fall due to the
deregulation of tuition by the Texas
Legislature and, according to UT
Permian Basin President Dr. W.
David Watts, the fact that our “educational quality is at stake.” In a 161 vote the Student Senate passed a
resolution in support of Watts’ proposal for a tuition increase.
He stated that the state legislature believes that students
should pay more as a college education is now viewed more for private good than for public good.
“I don’t advocate for it,” Dr.
Watts said of the legislature’s view
while addressing students at the
senate meeting on March 4.
The UT system has three
grades from which they categorize
the financial state of each system
component. These grades are satis-
factory (which eight out of the nine
UT schools are currently ranked as),
watch, and unsatisfactory. UT Permian Basin is currently ranked at
the watch status.
Dr. Watts said the increase
could mean improvements in our
faculty retention and recruitment,
student advising, class availability,
quality of life for students and faculty, and it would help ensure program accreditation.
The recommended increase
supported by the Student Senate
will consist of an additional $9 per
credit hour.
According to the paperwork that was provided to students
in attendance at the Student Senate
meeting, all UT system schools are
increasing tuition for the fall.
“The UTPB increase is the
third lowest increase in the UT system,” said Dr. Watts.
Some students weren’t impressed by the information distributed at the Student Senate meeting.
“[On the flyer] at the bottom, it had a section on how much
tuition is for each school in the UT
system.” English major Nora
Triepke explained. “But it doesn’t
state the per capita income of each
community, and it’s much, much
lower for Odessa than Lubbock or
Austin or Dallas... or even San
Angelo... might be a little bit more
than Odessa is. If they are going to
be perfectly fair...they should provide all of the pros and cons including that information, because it’s
really important.”
Students like Robin
Hernandez are optimistic about the
increase.
“They’re saying if they get
more money then they can hire
more teachers and offer more
classes,” Hernandez said.
Junior Senator Keimon Hall
supports and voted in favor of the
See Tuition, p. 4a
Photo by Martin Gonzales
Luis Tijerina performs authentic Comanche Tarahumara
tribal ceremony.
Texas Intercollegiate Press Association
Convention 2005
The Mesa Journal Award Winners
Kristi Condry
First Place
“Special Edition or
Section”
Jason Navarette
Jay Gorania
Honorable Mention
“Page One Design”
Honorable Mention
“Page One Design”
Arts & Entertainment
Thursday, June 30, 2005
The Mesa Journal, Page 3a
Strong in the Force Star Wars Episodes I, II are
Entertainment Review by
Jason Navarette
Directed by: George Lucas
Starring: Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie
Portman, Jake Lloyd, Hayden Christensen and Samuel
L. Jackson
Photo Courtesy 20th Century Fox
The Phantom Menace
Release Date: May 19, 1999
Directed by: George Lucas
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Total U.S. Gross: $431.1 Million
MPAA Rating: PG
(for sci-fi action/violence)
In a galaxy far, far away, Star Wars: Episode I - The
Phantom Menace and Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones
chronicles the final years of the Galactic Republic and the
beginning of the Clone Wars.
The Phantom Menace opens with Jedi Master Qui-Gon
Jinn (Liam Neeson) and his Padawan apprentice Obi-Wan
Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) as they uncover a plot by the Trade
Federation to take over the planet of Naboo. Together with
Queen Padmé Naberrie Amidala (Natalie Portman) of Naboo
and the comical Jar Jar Binks (voiced by Ahmed Best), the
two warriors journey to the desert planet of Tatooine where
a young boy, Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd), is liberated
from slavery. The movie builds-up to a final battle with Sith
Lord Darth Maul (Ray Park), the apprentice of a mysterious
Sith Lord named Darth Sidious.
In Attack of the Clones (which takes place ten years
following the events in The Phantom Menace), Jedi Knight
Kenobi and his new Padawan apprentice, Anakin Skywalker
(Hayden Christensen), are entrusted to protect the nowSenator Amidala until she is able to cast her vote at the
Galactic Senate regarding the Military Creation Act. A
budding (and forbidden) romance between an older
Skywalker and Senator Amidala develops as a plot by Count
Dooku (Christopher Lee), the leader of the Separatists, is
unraveled by Kenobi. In the end, the Galactic Repub lic
initiates the Clone Wars and Skywalker begins his descent in
to the abyss known as the Dark Side.
The acting portrayed in both films is good overall,
though some performances were lacking. Natalie Portman
(who had her film debut in the overlooked film Léon, which
was previously called The Professional) and Hayd en
Christensen (The Virgin Suicides, Life as a House) worked
remarkably well opposite each other.
The graphics and action sequences were excellent,
particularly when you throw Force powers into the mix.
Some of the sequences ran too long, particularly the pod race
scene in The Phantom Menace. Still, the action flowed smoothly
and, as a plus, we witness in Attack of the Clones the awesome
powerhouse that is Yoda (voiced by Frank Oz).
Whether you are a Star Wars fan or simply like to
watch a good action movie, these films are right up your
alley. They will leave you craving more.
Collectively, The Phantom Menace and Attack of the
Clones merit 4 out of 5 Yodas.
Campus Spotlight
UT Permian Basin
Student Services at a Glance...
PASS (Programs Assisting Student Study)
Services include academic and career counseling,
career placement, study skills support and special
testing services. Call (432)552-2630.
Financial Aid
Offers grants, scholarships, college work-study, work
assistance, veterans education benefits, agency assistance, and a variety of loans. Call (432)552-2620.
Student Activities
A wide range of campus cultural and entertainment
events, such as campus entertainment, lectures, fine
arts exhibits, and folk culture events are offered to
students. Students, through the Student Senate, are
represented on the Program Board. Call (432)5522650.
Writing Center
Whether a student needs help with punctuation and
grammar for an essay, or just brainstorming ideas,
the Writing Center provides a large number of services. Call (432)552-2302.
Academic Advisors
Students should meet their faculty advisors once
during each semester. When a student selects a
major upon admission to the College of Arts and
Sciences, a faculty advisor in the major field is assigned to the student by the Arts and Sciences Academic Advising Office.
Supplemental Instruction
This is a free tutoring service that targets historically difficult courses such as Mathematics, Biology,
Chemistry and History. Call (432)552-2630.
The University Math Center (UMC)
Assists students in overcoming the difficulties they
are having with mathematics at all skill levels. Call
(432)552-3350.
Photo Courtesy 20th Century Fox
Attack of the Clones
Release Date: May 16, 2002
Directed by: George Lucas
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Total U.S. Gross: $302.2 Million
MPAA Rating: PG
(for sustained sci-fi action/violence)
Earns perfect score, new Star Wars does
Entertainment Review
by Jason Navarette
Directed by: George Lucas
Starring: Ewan McGregor, Natalie
Portman, Hayden Christensen, Ian
McDiarmid and Samuel L. Jackson
In Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the
Sith, which is the third, and final, prequel to the
original Star Wars trilogy, Jedi Knight Anakin
Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) takes his final
steps into the Dark Side of the Force, emerging
as the Sith Lord Darth Vader. Three years have
passed since the Clone Wars began, and war
heroes Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan
McGregor) start on a mission to rescue Supreme
Chancellor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) from the
clutches of the evil droid army. During his adventure, Anakin is plagued with a vision—a
portent that his secret wife Senator Padmé
Amidala (Natalie Portman) will die in childbirth.
Young Skywalker soon finds his life spiraling
out of control, and his descent will prove to
bring about both the end of the Galactic Republic and the demise of the Jedi Order.
Revenge of the Sith has a much darker, sinister tone than any of the other Star Wars episodes (even when compared to The Empire Strikes
Back), which no doubt led to it being the only
episode to have an MPAA rating of PG-13—the
other episodes are rated PG.
Although somewhat poor at times, the
acting was enhanced by a good storyline (plus,
the story feels meatier with a darker ambiance
to back it up). Hayden Christensen and Natalie
Portman deliver great performances, as they
have the same on-screen chemistry seen in Attack of the Clones.
Even the graphics seem darker and grittier in Revenge of the Sith. The film contains the
same great action sequences as the previous episodes, though, in the case of the final action
scenes, the battles seem more brutal.
The darker tone of Revenge of the Sith may
make some Star Wars fans feel jaded (especially if
they brought their children to see the film). However, it is a perfect transition into the next three
episodes of the series.
Revenge of the Sith gets a perfect 5 out of 5
Yodas.
Photo Courtesy 20th Century Fox
Release Date: May 19, 2005
Directed by: George Lucas
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Total U.S. Gross: $351.4 Million
MPAA Rating: PG-13
(for sci-fi violence and
some intense images)
The Mesa Journal Online...
...the award-winning student newspaper of
UT Permian Basin is now just a keystroke away.
www.utpb.edu/mj/index.htm
Student Life
Page 4a, The Mesa Journal
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Campus News...
Art Exhibits on display in the Nancy Fyfe Cardozier Gallery
The Nancy Fyfe Cardozier Gallery will be home to art exhibits throughout the summer and part of the fall. The Josh Aldrin, Elliot Lundsen and Amber
Kappes Graduating Exhibition will by held through July 15. The Derrick Conway and Mike Richardson Graduating Exhibition will be presented July 22
through Aug. 19. The reception will be at 7 to 9 p.m. on July 22. The Texas Society of Sculptors Showcase will be held Aug. 22 through Sept. 30. The closing reception
and party will be at 7 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 30. All exhibits and receptions are open to the public and free of charge.
UT Permian Basin to hold Intensive Language Program in Mexico
UT Permian Basin will offer a two-week Intensive Language Program on July 10 through 23 in Chihuahua, Mexico. The Spanish course is available for three
credit hours in SPAN 1389. Those taking part in the program will be invited to live with Mexican families and study at Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua. Those
interested in being a part of the Intensive Language Program is encouraged to send a letter of interest and apply online at www.utpb.edu or call (432)552-2108. A deposit
is required for the program and space is limited to 30 people. The program is open to the public and transportation will be provided.
Falcon Althetics
Fall 2004 - Spring 2005
RRAC Volleyball Final Standings
Team West
1. Texas Wesleyan
2. College of the SW
3. UT Permian Basin
4. Bacone
5. SW Assemblies of God
6. Paul Quinn
RRAC Men’s Soccer Final Standings
Conference
Season
Team
Conference
Season
14-2
14-2
10-6
6-10
4-10
1-12
27-3
22-9
17-17
10-28
8-21
1-12
1. Northwood
2. Texas A&M
International
3. College of the SW
4. Texas Wesleyan
5. UT Permian Basin
6. Huston-Tillotson
7. Wiley
8. SW Assemblies of God
9. Bacone
7-1
10-4
6-1
6-2
6-2
2-3-1
2-3
2-5
2-7
1-5-1
11-4
11-5
7-8-1
6-7-1
2-7-2
4-11
7-11
2-12-1
RRAC Women’s Soccer
Final Standings
Team
1. Northwood
2. College of the SW
3. Texas Wesleyan
4. Texas A&M
International
5. Bacone
6. UT Permian Basin
Conference
Season
4-1
4-1
2-2-1
6-5-1
10-7
7-7-2
Falcon
Sports
RRAC Men’s Cross Country
Final Standings
Team
Score
1. Northwood
2. Texas A&M
International
3. UT Permian Basin
Team
32
1. Northwood
2. Texas A&M
International
3. UT Permian Basin
4. Langston
5. Huston-Tillotson
40
48
1. Texas Wesleyan
2. College of the SW
3. Northwood
4. UT Permian Basin
5. Paul Quinn
6. SW Assemblies of God
Sports Lecture,
Continued from p. 1a
to ‘white running backs’ or
‘white wide receivers.’”
He focused on baseball coverage and found that
newspaper sportswriters
exhibited less racist language
than television sports announcers.
“Live coverage of
sports, given the absence of
the reflective self-monitoring
and editing processes
Score
33
40
83
84
105
Men’s Outdoor Track & Field
2005 Results
Baseball 2005 Standings
Team North
RRAC Women’s Cross Country
Final Standings
Conference
Season
13-2
10-5
9-6
6-9
4-8
2-13
33-25
16-29
27-29
12-22
18-27-1
13-26-1
present in newspaper coverage, seems possibly to lead to
inadvertent racist comments,” he said.
Though Brantley’s
findings indicate that sports
journalists who cover baseball might be less racist than
those who cover basketball
and football, he did find signs
of discrimination.
“While not overly
racist, baseball writers seem
to display a nationalist bias
that specifically favors
American-born Latino play-
Team
1. Langston
2. Paul Quinn
3. Huston-Tillotson
4. UT Permian Basin
5. Northwood
6. College of the SW
7. Wiley
8. Bacone
9. Texas College
ers over foreign-born Latino
players.”
Outside of the content analysis of the field,
Brantley believes that some
people might not be correct
in their understanding of
what Communication is all
about.
“I’d say that the view
from outside the field is probably that all we do in Mass
Communication is count
things (i.e. presence of women
and minorities in prime time
television shows) and that
Score
136
105
84
74
67
42
40
16
8
any theoretical development
is handled by the Psych department,” Brantley said.
“My goal as a researcher is
to stay involved in both perspectives.”
Previously, Brantley
attended the University of
Houston where he completed
a BA in Radio-Television and
an MA in Mass Communication.
He has taught at the
University of Houston, Mississippi State University and
the University of Alabama.
Tuition,
Continued from p. 2b
increase.
“With the increase
we will have less complaining about the school and how
we don’t have teachers and
things to do,” Hall said. “So
this will help us and also help
the different departments
that are short on things like
professors. I just think that
this will make this school
better.”
SVC,
Continued from p. 2b
call the SVC at (432)552-2690
or reach them via email at
[email protected].
2-3
1-3-1
1-4
3-14
5-9-3
3-13
Softball 2005 Standings
Team
1. Houston Baptist
2. Bacone
3. Texas Wesleyan
4. Northwood
5. UT Permian Basin
6. College of the SW
7. Texas College
Conference
Overall
20-0
17-5
12-12
11-11
7-11
6-16
1-11
40-2
33-13
26-21
22-27
13-15
8-22
6-25
Women’s Outdoor Track & Field
2005 Results
Team
1. Langston
2. Northwood
3. Huston-Tillotson
4. Texas College
5. UT Permian Basin
6. Wiley
7. Bacone
Paul Quinn
College of the SW
Mass Media,
Continued from p. 1a
have been two trends in society since the 1970s: The deregulation of mass media and
the concentration of the mass
media industry through
mergers.
She said, “Recent
mergers of media companies
concern many people . . . . The
media may lose independence and diversity, as they
take orders from distant employers.”
In describing the media-government relationships in the East and West,
Sun highlights the role that
technology plays in China
and the U.S.
She said, “When
China opened its borders,
technology was a doubleedged sword: It promoted
economic growth, but
strengthened the leadership
status of the Communist
party.”
Falcon Update: Lisa
Galvan has since been hired
as the Coordinator for the
Student Volunteer Center.
Score
179
115
102
49
9
7
0
0
0
“In the U.S., the
Internet is regulated through
commerce. In China, the
Internet is regulated by the
government,” she stated.
In China, unlike in
the U.S., all Internet providers are publicly owned and
housed in Internet cafés, Sun
said. She continued by detailing how Chinese police officers patrol such cafés, monitoring and restricting which
websites patrons visit.
UT Permian Basin
student Yolanda Martins
was impressed with Sun’s
presentation.
“It was a very interesting discussion. It was interesting that [China has]
policemen monitoring for
[national security threats].”
Sun has published
several studies on mass communication and the media in
the U.S. and China. Her interest in mass communication
was sparked during her employment as a radio disk
jockey.
The
Mesa
Journal