Volume 28, Issue 13: 4-1-2010
Gubernatorial candidates on education
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
On March 2, Rick Perry defeated Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and candidate Debra Medina for the GOP nomination for Texas Governor. Perry will now campaign against the democratic nominee, former Houston mayor, Bill White.
In his twenty-plus years in public service, Perry has made an impact on higher education, leaving his mark on college students all over Texas. In January 2004 as Lt. Governor, Perry demanded that public colleges and universities work with the Higher Education Coordinating Board to develop a statewide higher education accountability system. By December 2004, a system launched that allowed Texans to compare each institution to other in-state and out-of-state institutions based on information related to the four goals of Closing the Gaps and operational efficiency. The outcome of this project showed improvement in enrollment and the number of degrees achieved increased.
Perry also promoted incentive funding for higher education establishments. The Eightieth Legislature set aside $100 million for incentive funding in 2009. In January of the same year, the Higher Education Incentive Funding Task Force formed to create an incentive funding system and determine how to award funds. Due to this, institutions are looking for ways to improve graduation rates, increase graduates in certain fields, and increase transfers from two-year colleges to four-year universities, while improving the quality of education hoping for their cut of the incentive funding.
The democratic nominee, Bill White, isn’t new to politics. His previous 
experience includes serving as the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy under Clinton from 1993 to 1995 and Mayor of Houston for three terms. His campaign focuses on increasing jobs for Texans, but he has some ideas for higher education that will impact college students throughout the state.
White believes that higher education is too expensive for most families to afford. Quoting that the cost of public colleges in Texas has risen 82% since 2003, White plans to work to make two and four year institutions more affordable. “Texas students should have an opportunity to pay little or no tuition with a public service commitment after school,” according to Bill White’s website.
White also plans to support the growth and development of more Tier I schools in Texas. According to billwhitefortexas.com, “Texas ranks third to the last of the ten most populous states in number of residents per Tier I schools.” This causes thousands of students to leave the state to attend universities elsewhere, causing a “brain drain” as well as cheating Texas out of the research and funding these schools provide. White wants greater state investment in research and graduate programs, hoping that the investment will pay for itself as more schools in Texas reach Tier I status and provide better opportunities for a greater number of people.
If elected in November, Perry will serve an unprecedented third full term, adding onto his years as the longest-serving governor in Texas.
Volume 28, Issue 12: 3-11-10
After hours tutoring at Parker Ranch House
By SCOTT THOEN
Staff Writer
For students looking for extra academic help, UTPB provides a program to help students who are unable to take advantage of on-campus tutoring during the day.
Sunday through Thursday at 8 p.m. to midnight, UTPB has arranged for student instructors (SIs) and tutors from the various academic centers to be available at the Parker Ranch House for students who are seeking after- hours help. 
The program is officially titled The Ranch House Tutorials funded by the Title V HSI grant, LEAD West Texas.
This grant provides a variety of tutors from the Math & Science Center, Literacy Center, Writing Center, and PASS office.
The Ranch House Tutorials aim at meeting the needs of students who prefer to study at night or have commitments during the day that do not allow them access to UTPB’s other academic services.
According to Leticia Madrid, Director of the Literacy Center, the program was initially started as an extension of the services offered by the Literacy Center, but once funding was received they expanded to include other tutoring services to better serve the student body.
“This program allows us [the different tutoring services] to better service the students,” Madrid said.
“It is an excellent opportunity for students to get help during the times that many are more likely to be working on homework, etc. Since many of our students work in addition to going to school, it can be difficult to find times to come in for tutoring. I think the Ranch House tutoring provides another option that I hope students will take advantage of,” said Director of the Math and Science Center Jill Miller.
Kellye Manning, Director of The University Writing Center, believes the services at the Parker Ranch House help to achieve goals outside of already tight budgets.
“It is a budget extendor for us because it allows me to employ tutors I wouldn’t normally have funds for. So it’s good all around in terms of outreach and scheduling and budget,” Manning said.
The Ranch House hosted an open house on February 8, inviting students to meet with the tutors, enjoy some refreshments, and learn what the program was all about. To fully cater to the student body, another open house is being planned for the future to make sure students across the board obtain information about the program.
“We want people to come out and meet the tutors face to face,” Crytal Fletcher, a Ranch House tutor, said.
The Ranch House Tutorials are available for all UTPB students as a different approach to the traditional academic support systems.
“If anything, it beats studying alone.” Fetcher said.
It is the hope of the programs involved that students take advantage of this service, “It would be great for the students to take advantage of the program, “ Madrid said. “We’re always looking for ways to benefit the students and provide whatever it is they need.”
For more information on The Ranch House Tutorials, students can contact Leticia Madrid at 552-2154 or Chermae Morris at 552-3744 or inquire in person at the Parker Ranch House Sunday through Thursday, 8 p.m. to midnight.
English receives NCATE accredidation
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
The English department at UTPB received national recognition with no conditions through the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), approved by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) this spring. While the university was already NCATE accredited, the English department received program recognition from the National Council of Teachers of English by applying NCATE standards to the English curriculum. Students majoring in English and seeking teacher certification now follow a standard only twelve other schools in Texas offer.
“We are now applying national standards to our program,” said Dr. Sophia Andres, chair of Literature and Languages at UTPB.
Accreditation proves that a university is offering a high quality education to its students. According to the NCATE website, NCATE accreditation “is the process by which a professional education unit is recognized by the profession as meeting national standards for the content and operation of the unit.”
“It [NCATE/NCTE accreditation] means that if students who intend to teach go through our program, they are receiving a better, more effective education,” said Dr. Rebecca Babcock, an English assistant professor at UTPB.
In Fall 2008, the English department first attempted certification and received accreditation with conditions, meaning the program still had a few standards to meet.
“For each class involved, we had to articulate the NCATE standards,” Andres said. This included redesigning the classes the English department offered to address each of the standards that NCATE sets forth. The classes then use homework assignments and assessments to track the students’ progress and understanding of these standards.
After making some adjustments, the department resubmitted in 2009 and received notification of accreditation without conditions approximately one month ago.
The English department now offers two different degree plans for those pursuing a degree: English Education and regular English tracks. Students who wish to teach English at the secondary level can take the English Education track which not only provides them with the knowledge necessary for their specialization, but also offers them specific skills to use in the classroom.
“Only programs considered top in the country receive this certification.” Babcock said.
The English department’s NCTE accreditation adds to an ever-lengthening list of schools and departments within the university receiving national recognition. If you are interested in this program, visit the English department’s website or contact Dr. Andres in MB 4116.
Hart’s work featured in new exhibit
By IRIS FOSTER
Public Information Officer
Another outstanding artist and faculty member, Nancy Hart, will display her work in the Nancy Fyfe Cardozier Gallery, from Friday, March 5, from 7-9pm.
Titled “Nancy Hart: in serie parallele,” the Italian words for different series attest to her frequent trips to Italy where she has sketched landscapes, including a new series of pastel chalk drawings of Tuscany. Since the associate professor arrived at UTPB in 2008, Ms. Hart has found her landscapes to be infused with feelings of space and big sunny skies that she’s become accustomed to in West Texas.
Hart is presently showing her artist books, collages, and drawing in exhibitions in Cuba, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, South Korea, Switzerland, and UK, as well as in the US.
The show will run through Sunday, April 11, and the gallery hours are as follows: Monday-Thursday, 9am-9pm; Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday and Sunday, 2-5pm.
Volume 28, Issue 11: 2-25-10
QEP emphasizes critical thinking
Campus readies for April visit by SACS team
By MARK BLAIR
Staff Writer
UTPB’s Quality Enhancement Plan, or QEP, has been in the making since the spring of 2007. Through a series of online surveys given to students, faculty and staff, and through meetings with professors, administration and student organizations, the QEP Steering Committee co-chaired by Dr. Pat Sherbloom and Dr. Kay Ketzenberger, has chosen critical thinking as UTPB’s Quality Enhancement Plan.
The QEP is part of UTPB’s SACS, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, accreditation process. The SACS reaffirmation is a process that occurs every five years, and the QEP is needed for UTPB to maintain accreditation.
“We don’t think of this a requirement but instead as more of an opportunity. SACS is forcing us to think into the future and decide what we can do now to best educate our students in the years to come,” said Dr. Denise Watts, Director of Institutional Effectiveness.
The QEP Steering Committee narrowed down, from 72 possible plans, four options that promised to have the most positive effect on students education. From those four, critical thinking was chosen as UTPB’s QEP. The QEP Steering Committee felt that the Paul and Elder model of Critical Thinking would be most beneficial for their plans.
“We chose critical thinking because after the testing and surveys it was the best and most logical choice for UTPB,” said Dr. Pat Sherblom, Co-Chair of the QEP Steering Committee. “I hope students embrace [critical thinking]. It was requested by the students for their benefit.”
The classes targeted by the QEP are English 1301 and 1302 because these classes are the only sequential freshman courses that are required to be taken in order and because the majority of incoming freshmen take both of the courses. By targeting these two courses, the university will be able to test whether or not teaching critical thinking is effectively improving education at UTPB.
The QEP will not be implemented until Fall 2011. 2011 will be the beginning of the application period for the QEP and will continue through the spring of 2013.
The SACS team will be visiting UTPB’s campus April 12 – 14 in order to ensure that students, faculty and staff know and understand what the QEP is and what it means for this campus.
Tuition increases proposed for 2010
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
UTPB students should expect to see an increase in their tuition and fees in the fall of 2010.
During the Spring 2007 semester, the student body and Student Senate voted to approve a $150 fee for the new student multipurpose center that is expected to go into effect in September 2010. The fee could not be charged until the building’s construction was complete.
In January, students were invited to attend two tuition hearings to discuss increases in their tuition and fees. Recommendations included a $4 per semester hour increase in tuition as well as a $1.10 per semester increase in the medical services fee to be implemented for the Fall 2010 semester. The tuition committee also proposed a $9.25 per semester hour increase in tuition and a $1.20 per semester increase in the medical services fee for the fall of 2011.
“Dr. Watts will make his recommendation to the University of Texas System, and it will go to the Board of Regents in March,” said Dr. Susan Lara, Vice President of Student Services. “If the board approves, it will go into effect beginning in the Fall 2010 semester.”
Although tuition increases never make a college student smile, they are necessary for the school to continue to provide a quality education. Tuition helps the university provide more degree programs and retain and recruit faculty for the students. UTPB still remains one of the most affordable educations in Texas, and they will continue to provide an education at affordable prices, despite the proposed increases.
Presidential museum reopens with new exhibit
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
After closing for over 3 months, the Presidential Museum, which is located on the UTPB campus, has opened it’s doors again, with new additions to its already impressive array of exhibits.
The reopening is said to be a result of accepting an unspecified donation from local businessman John Bushman. Their long-term plan of financial stability includes raising over $3 million for the purpose of turning over operations and ownership to UTPB. The university must sign off on the idea, but President Watts has exhibited interest in operating the museum as an archive facility.
Students return triumphant: Part three
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
Josh Zuniga is a recent graduate of UTPB and one of three students chosen to spend the Fall 2009 semester in Washington D.C. through the Bill Archer Fellowship Program. Zuniga, now a full-time youth pastor, went to D.C. with different hopes than the other Archers.
“Few of the people I lived with were Christians,” Zuniga said. “Seeing how they lived and understanding their perspective on life gave me a better understanding for my own ministry.”
Zuniga interned with ChinaAid, a nonprofit Christian organization that advocates for human and religious rights for Chinese citizens. As part of his internship, Zuniga often drove the organizations guests and visitors around D.C.
“I think I got to know the city better than the other Archers because I had to drive around so much. It’s a great city. I love the architecture, and I was able to meet a lot of interesting people,” Zuniga said.
Zuniga also worked on various projects when he was in the office including bringing Dr. Gao Yaojie, an outspoken AIDS activist forced to leave China for her safety, to D.C. for a press conference concerning her book, “China’s AIDS Plague: 10,000 Letters,” and honoring Fang Zheng, a one-time Chinese Olympic hopeful whose legs were crushed by a tank in Tiananmen Square in 1989.
He was also there as ChinaAid brought a group of human and religious rights lawyers from China to tour and train.
“The other guests were living in America to get away from the Chinese government, so it was interesting to bring in people from China,” Zuniga said. On the return trip to China, the government arrested one of the lawyers before ChinaAid and the embassies worked for his release.
Zuniga also took classes during the week.
“The most interesting thing about the classes was the guest speakers that were brought in,” Zuniga said. “We had someone from Senator Kennedy’s staff and a former governor. It was a really cool experience.”
Spending the semester in Washington D.C. provided Zuniga with an experience he isn’t likely to forget. The nature of his internship took him outside his immediate area.
“I met a lot of people outside the Archer program and have a lot of friends there,” Zuniga said. “If I was called back, I wouldn’t mind. It’s a great city.”
Washington D.C. taught Zuniga a valuable lesson. “If you get the opportunity to go somewhere,” Zuniga said. “Take it. You never know who you might meet or the things you might learn.”
Volume 28, Issue 10: 2-11-10
Homecoming Queen and King crowned
Falcons show spirit in a week full of Homecoming victories
By MARK BLAIR
Staff Writer
The 2010 Homecoming week at UTPB preserved old traditions while creating new ones. The all-week celebration included ice skating, halftime giveaways at the men’s and women’s midweek games, and a pep rally on Friday night to get students in the spirit for the games against Lincoln on Saturday, Jan. 23. At the halftime game, the culmination of the event was the crowning of 2010 UTPB Homecoming king and queen.
The traditional tailgating party was held on Saturday before the games, but the Homecoming parade was replaced by a Pep Yo Ride contest this year. Clubs, organizations, and individual students were invited to decorate their cars to demonstrate their school spirit.
After the Pep Yo Ride contest and pre-game tailgate party, the UTPB women’s basketball team took to the court at 2 p.m. The Lady Falcons gained an early lead scoring the game’s first twelve points and keeping the lead for the entire first half. However, the Lady Blue Tigers did not lie down in the second half, taking the lead back with three minutes left to play in the fourth quarter making the score 64-63. The Lady Falcons went on a streak outscoring the Blue Tigers 12-1 making the final score of the game 73-66.
Following the women’s victory, the UTPB men took to the court at 4:30 p.m. to face off against the Lincoln men. Although Lincoln captured the lead early on, the Falcons fought back in the first half and led at halftime 34-31. Both teams came out in the second half with victory on their minds, but with the score tied at 59-59 with five seconds left in the game, Keenan Gay made both of his free throws to put the Falcons up 61-59 giving them the lead and the win.
This year’s Homecoming court was announced during the men’s halftime. The women’s court included Catherine Allen, Chassidy Johnson, Christina Rios, Amanda Brewer and Elizabeth Mendoza. Andrew Torres, Joe Uranga, John Escontrias, Charles Harper and Matt Wood comprised the men’s court. This year’s Homecoming King and Queen elected by the students are Joe Uranga and Chassidy Johnson.
BLC hosts poet laureate and civil rights activist, Maya Angelou
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
As one of the most influential women of our time, Maya Angelou has been celebrated as everything from an actress to a filmmaker to a civil rights activist. On February 17, she’ll also have the experience of visiting UTPB and bringing attention to the activities of the Black Leadership Council.
The BLC is giving out tickets to Angelou’s event as a part of their conference to celebrate Black History Month at UTPB.
Students who want tickets can obtain them from Feb. 10-12 in the Student Union, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., while the community can pick them up on Feb. 14 or 15, from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. in the MB lobby.
UTPB Names PAC Executive Director
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
On Monday, January 25, UTPB President Dr. David Watts announced the hiring of Carol Roberts-Spence as executive director of the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center.
“There were a number of outstanding candidates vying for the position,” President Watts said. “It was the consensus of the board that Carol was the very best choice for us.”
Receiving her degree in theatre arts from the University of Texas at El Paso, Roberts-Spence spent time in New York performing as a Shakespearean actor, instructor and touring manager. She served as director of UTEP’s Office of Special Events since 1998, an office that is responsible for events taking place in the Don Haskins Center, the Sun Bowl, and the Magoffin Auditorium.
She hopes to bring Broadway quality performances to the students at UTPB with the state of the art Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center.
“Students are vital,” Roberts-Spence said. “Whether they choose to manage or perform, I hope to bring them the opportunity to gain real-world experience with the performing arts center.”
Roberts-Spence’s official start date with UTPB is March 1.
Students return triumphant: Part Two
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
Few people experience the rush and excitement of working side by side with political powerhouses and civil rights leaders, but graduating senior Gaven Norris, a Political Science major at UTPB, is one of the lucky few.
Norris, along with fellow UTPB students Kelly Combs and Josh Zuniga were three of 32 students selected from the UT System to intern in Washington D.C. through the Bill Archer Fellowship Program for the Fall 2009 semester.
Norris spent his semester in D.C. interning with the NAACP Washington Bureau, which is the “federal legislative liaison and national public policy office for the NAACP,” according to the organization’s website.
As a health policy advocate, Norris acted as a liaison between the NAACP and various grasstop leaders and coalitions, often working with people such as Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and Nancy Pelosi. He also spent two weeks shadowing NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous, the youngest person to hold this office in the organization’s history.
“Here I am, just this guy from Odessa, Texas, and I have their numbers in my cell phone. The places life can take us are amazing.” Norris said.
After working a full day, Norris and the other students also attended class on Monday and Wednesday nights.
“We learned a lot that you just can’t learn from a textbook. So much of what we know about the legislative process revolves around the representatives and senators,” Norris said of the Policy Making Process class, “But there is so much more to it and so many more people involved.”
Speakers were often brought in to talk to the class. Combined, the guest lecturers had over 120 years of experience working in Washington D.C.
“It was amazing to realize that we were learning this information from people who experience what they are teaching every day.” Norris said.
Washington D.C. had more to offer than an internship and course work.
“Every day, on our way to and from work, we walked down the street with the Capitol on one side of the street and the Supreme Court on the other,” Norris said. “Even after being there for awhile, I often pinched myself just to make certain I was really there.”
As Chairman of the Black Leadership Council and Executive Director of the Young Democrats, Norris is no stranger to trying to make a difference in politics and in the lives of others. Meeting leaders of the NAACP and people who are significant in the civil rights movement only strengthened Norris’s resolve to become a part of the process.
“We have such a negative outlook on the people who represent us, with a lot of talk of corruption and greed, but that is such a small minority of the people who work in D.C.,” Norris said. “The majority of them truly care about the wants of the people. It is important to stay involved in the process because what affects the White House affects your house.”
Volume 28, Issue 9: 1-28-10
Students leave mark on piece of UTPB history
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
On Tuesday, January 12, the public joined UTPB students and faculty to put their names on a piece of UTPB history. The “topping off” ceremony is a UTPB tradition, although the actual flying of the beam was postponed to January 14 due to a broken track.
In a press release on Wed., Jan. 6, President Watts lauded the support of the members of the Founders’ Campaign, who helped make the construction of the Performing Arts Center possible.
“We are delighted that construction has progressed to this point,” Watts said.
The beam available for signing is the largest and heaviest beam in the Performing Arts building’s structure, weighing over 34,000 lbs. and measuring 47 feet by 38 inches.
Construction is expected to be completed by Fall 2011.
Students urged to consider campus safety
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
With a new semester, the campus hosts new students, new faculty, and new visitors. It is important to those who are just joining the UTPB family as well as those who have been here for some time to be aware of their security and safety on campus.
The University Police Department works in conjunction with civilian personnel, non-commissioned security guards, as well as the surrounding local and state law enforcement agencies to guarantee the safety of those on the UTPB campus.
The police department hosts a variety of awareness and prevention programs developed to make the campus a safer, more secure environment.
Operation Identification allows the students to engrave items of value with serial numbers or owner-recognized numbers and then catalogue those items. If any students are interested in doing this, the tools are available for checkout at the Police Department Information Center located on the first floor of the Mesa Building in MB 1200.
With the Safety Escort Program, an individual can request an escort to locations on campus any time during the night. There are also “blue poles” strategically placed around the campus in parking lots and on sidewalks. These emergency telephones connect directly to the Information Center during business hours and to the on duty officer’s cell phone after the campus closes each day. To use these telephones, simply press the large button and speak into the microphone to contact help during an emergency.
The police department also produces and distributes crime prevention brochures and other literature to assist in maintaining the safety of the individuals on campus. The officers also conduct “directed patrols” and “park and walks” during their shifts. During a directed patrol, officers or guards walk through all buildings where they look, or are alerted to, suspicious activities. Guards and officers park their patrol vehicles and conduct foot patrols of the campus during park and walks.
The campus police and security guards do their best to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and visitors daily, but in order to best serve the campus community, the officers require the participation of those they are trying to protect. If someone needs to contact the police department for information or to report a situation, please call 432-552-2786. If there is a fire or medical emergency, contact 911.
Students Return Triumphant: Part One
By AMBER BATURA
Interim Assistant Editor
Three UTPB students interned in Washington D.C. during the Fall 2009 semester through the Bill Archer Fellowship Program. Kelly Combs, Gaven Norris, and Josh Zuniga were three of 32 students chosen to move to Washington D.C. for an entire academic semester and intern with various departments and agencies while taking classes.
Kelly Combs interned with Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and her staff along with three other students from different programs. The interns divided up and split their time between departments within Hutchison’s office.
In the scheduling department, he took part in coordinating Hutchison’s D.C. schedule as well as her Texas schedule. While working in the mail department, which staffs two full-time employees to handle the amount of correspondence Hutchison receives daily, Combs helped sort, organize, and disperse over 30,000 to 40,000 pieces of mail weekly. In the press department, he was required to track any mention of Senator Hutchison in the news as well as read 5 to 7 newspapers and magazines a day, collecting any articles that might interest Senator Hutchison. In addition, he gained an overview of the legislative department’s activities by assisting with bill research and projects.
“I’ve never seen so many highly educated people who were willing to work so hard and so long for so little money,” Combs said. “But they love what they are doing, and they love their jobs. They are happy to be there.”
Not only did Combs work with Hutchison’s staff, he also had a front row seat to the healthcare debate.
“To see the debate first hand, to watch it happen with your own eyes, you knew that you were a witness to history.” Combs said.
The internship was not the only requirement of the program. The students also attended classes during the week. On Monday night, the students attended Policy Making Process taught by Dr. Julie Donnelly; on Wednesday night was Beyond Congress and the White House taught by Dr. Joel Swerdlow, and three weekends throughout the semester, the students took Advocacy and Applied Settings with Dr. John Daly.
“For one of the classes we had an ongoing research project at the Library of Congress that our professor used to help us hone our research skills,” Combs said. “It was a ‘wow’ moment having the largest publicly funded library in the world at my fingertips.”
There was more to do in Washington D.C. than just work and class. Late one night, Combs and a friend decided to walk the three miles from their house to the Lincoln Memorial. Along the way the two passed the Capitol, the Senate Building, the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian and many other significant buildings. At last, they reached the Lincoln Memorial at around 3 am.
“It’s just Lincoln and you,” Combs said. “And I stood there in the silence and wondered if I would ever do anything as great as him.”
Combs is well on his way to doing great things. As a recipient of the Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship, this fall, Combs will begin studying in Morocco for a year while working on different service projects. He plans on returning to Washington D.C. for graduate work and eventually working in the Foreign Service abroad.
“The most important thing I took away from Washington is that you are only limited by your own ideas and dreams.” Combs said. “If you want something, you can achieve it. You can do and be anything as long as you don’t limit yourself.”
Volume 28, Issue 8: 12-8-2009
2000-2009: A retrospective look back at the decade
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
As the semester draws to a close, it’s with fond thoughts that I look to start the next semester.. Some UTPB students, however, are taking a look back at the last decade, and are determined to learn from our mistakes and grow from our successes. Whether we’re looking back at the fads of 2000 or the strong and building trends of 2009, predicting what’s to come in the next decade is about as easy as looking at the last one.
Sometimes the easiest way to define a decade is by its music; certainly, the sixties bring to mind peace-loving, guitar-strumming hippies, while the eighties inspire thoughts of hair band rock ballads. The beginning of this decade began with the continued success of pop music stars Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys topping the music charts, in addition to guitar-great Lenny Kravitz and the raspy-voiced Macy Gray. Since then, one Backstreet Boy has entered and completed rehab, Britney has been married-and divorced-twice, and all of these stars of the decade are still putting out hits, despite the competition of newcomers like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry. In addition, today’s music stars are forced to compete with the many breakout performers spawned by reality TV series American Idol, who consistently produce mass-appealing singles like Jordin Sparks’s “Battlefield” and 2002 winner Kelly Clarkson’s “Already Gone.”
American Idol isn’t the only reality TV show that the United States has become obsessed with over the past decade. Family-oriented sitcoms like Boy Meets World and Friends have phased out in favor of hyper-stressful, often competitive reality shows like Survivor (first broadcast in the U.S. in May 2000), The Bachelor (debuted in 2002 on ABC), and Jon and Kate Plus Eight (which first aired in two one-hour specials: Surviving Sextuplets and Twins and Surviving Sextuplets and Twins: One Year Later). Surprisingly, interest in these reality shows haven’t phased out much. Jon and Kate Gosselin have only recently ended their reality series chronicling the lives of their eight children. The Bachelor and Survivor, inexplicably, are counting over fourteen seasons, with no immediate end in sight. The shows still have nothing on animated-series, The Simpsons, which in 2000 was awarded on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and in 2009, surpassed Gunsmoke as the longest-running American primetime entertainment series. It’s only natural to assume that in 2019, American audiences will still be watching Homer and the residents of Springfield.
Music and books have played out with each other to provide double-edged trends in the last decade. Although movies based on popular novels have always been in production, some of the biggest novels this year Harry Potter, The Da Vinci Code, and Twilight, just to name a few, have also produced some of the decade’s biggest blockbusters. Other themes in the past decade have been movies based on comic books (Watchmen, the Spiderman trilogy, The Dark Knight), and movies featuring vampires (remember Dracula 2000, featuring a pre-300 Gerard Butler, Van Helsing, and, of course, the currently popular, Twilight).
Perhaps the most impacting trends of the decade are those based on political figures of the last decade. There were plenty of scandals between 2000 and 2009, but the things people are likely to remember most are the tragedy of September 11, the subsequent War Against Terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan, political figures like Colin Powell, President George W. Bush, Condeleeza Rice, and the fervor of the 2008 presidential election, which threw figures like Sarah Palin and hopeful John McCain into the light of fame, even as the public embraced eventual president-elect Barack Obama.
Meanwhile, on the home front of UTPB, students are witnessing some of the biggest and most impressive changes for the school over the past few years, as UTPB has broken ground on three new additions to the UTPB system, including a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center, a Student Multipurpose Center, and a Science and Technology Center.
Whatever UTPB faces in the teens of the next decade, with graduates like those commencing on December 12, it can only be bigger and better things.
Presidio expected to host deportees in future
By DIANNE LEYVA
Staff Writer
Presidio, TX is considered one of the most tranquil border towns in Texas, however this may radically change in the next few months. With a population of approximately 4,150 people, the core of this town lies within its schools and family businesses. The relationship with its border town Ojinaga, Chihuahua has always been one of friendliness. Support for each community to progress was seen in the flood which invaded both communities September of last year. Both communities sought ways to aid each other in the disaster and the unification allowed them to successfully survive this natural disaster.
A year later, the communities are once again faced with turmoil. Not only will they be dealing with the drug war and shootings in Ojinaga, Chihuahua, but also with the possibility of hosting convicts. The Alien Transfer and Exit Program (ATEP) will now allow Homeland Security to use the Presidio/Ojinaga border to deport approximately 34,000 illegal immigrants per year into Mexico. This has caused much apprehension within both communities. Tales of men being assaulted by the deportees have already flown through the communities.
“Based on what I have read, the deportees will be coming from the Arizona and California areas, with little or no ties to the Presidio/Ojinaga area. What will they do? Return home? Stay? Ojinaga/Presidio does not have the infrastructure or resources for a constant influx of 3,000 males per month. The area concerns about how this might disrupt our peaceful co-existence, “David Borden, resident of and coach in Presidio, said.
Efforts from Texas Governor, Rick Perry urging the federal government to stop its plans and take the necessary actions to secure the Texas border were not successful. The ATEP program is now in effect. As a means of security, the state of Texas has increased its law enforcement resources and leveraged technology on the border. Under the leadership of the governor and aid from the legislature the state of Texas has dedicated more than $110 million to secure the border.
However, concerns that this is still not enough have risen within both communities. A tranquil town, may lose its stability and peace.
Safety tips for those travelling in Dec.
By ROBERT HICKS
Staff Writer
Many students will begin to return home this winter as the Christmas break kicks off. Several of them will be traveling to the remote corners of Texas and some will even be traveling across the country.
All who muster their strength to ford the cold weather and take one of these long-haul jaunts are advised to take extreme precautions and be prepared for whatever conditions the harsh winter weather can throw at them.
Before even beginning to plan the trip, students should make sure that their tires are aired and not suffering any punctures. This can be done at any gas station that offers service. Students should also make sure they are up-to-date on their regular oil changes and maintenance before leaving town. Finally, in the case of the emergency, all travelers should have important safety items in their cars: a flashlight, batteries for the flashlight, a tire gauge, a blanket, a spare tire, and a first aid kit.
The perilousness of the journey will depend chiefly on three factors: the destination of the journey and the time at which one travels.
If you travel north to a town such as Lubbock, Amarillo, or Dumas, you should expect to see more ice caution signs and higher chances of freezing or slipping on black ice. Traveling south, however, does not necessarily mean you should anticipate a smooth trip.
Now if you’re traveling southeast toward San Antonio, Houston, or Corpus Christi you can expect an ice-free road as you make the gradual descent in elevation.
If you’re traveling southeast toward Presidio, El Paso, or Fort Stockton, it may be pertinent for you to take the most extreme precautions, for you will be driving in an area where the altitude ranges from about 2,000 ft above sea level in Presidio to a little over 5000 ft in Fort Davis.
When considering the time of day, it may be common sense to say it is much less life threatening to drive during the day than at night. However, many students tend to leave late in the day after their last exam to go to a place such as Dallas or Houston and end up being stuck on the road late at night.
During the winter, the temperature change between day and night can be as high as 30 degrees some days, especially in humidity-bare areas in West Texas. There have been days in Fort Davis when, during the day, the thermometer read 50 degrees; and by the time night fell, it read below freezing. Freezing temperatures increase the possibility of frozen roads and invisible ice patches. When traveling to distant places, try to leave in the morning so that you can reach home-base before the bracing nightly winter wind chill hits.
Volume 28, Issue 7: 11-25-09
National Novel Writing Month spurs students to succeed in a “novel” endeavor
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
For one class of UTPB students, the month of November began, not with a farewell to Halloween and an overdose on sugary treats, but with the frenetic clatter of fingers to keyboards, the flurry of hands flying across paper, and the mentality of a racer shooting off from the starting line with nothing but the end in sight. That’s because the end of November heralds something far more important than a simple grade. These classmates in the Fall Studies in Writing class are working toward the goal of writing a 50,000 word novel for National Novel Writing Month.
National Novel Writing Month (or Nanowrimo) began in 1999 as a madcap approach to novel writing, in which participants sign up for a month of what essentially amounts to marathon novel writing. At an estimated 1,500 plus words per day, the 30 days between midnight on October 31 and midnight on November 30 are spent plugging away at the computer, with no regard to the quality of the work. Participants “win” Nanowrimo when they reach a total of 50,000 words.
Studies in Writing student and 2009 Nanowrimo participant, Richard Fischer claims that the way the course was developed is just another incentive for winning in November.
“There were two reasons for me to do this: One, I could actually write a novel, and two, the need for the grade makes me write it,” Fischer said.
The program director of Nanowrimo, Chris Baty, explains that the benefits of Nanowrimo are multifarious and far-reaching. Why should students undertake this responsibility? Chris Baty enumerates on the many reasons:
“To actively participate in one of our era’s most enchanting art forms! To write without having to obsess over quality. To be able to make obscure references to passages from our novels at parties. To be able to mock real novelists who dawdle on and on, taking far longer than 30 days to produce their work,” Baty said.
Dr. Rebecca Babcock, who heads the Studies in Writing course explains that her interest in developing the course began when students started approaching her about beginning a course in the study of writing. Babcock took a minimalistic approach to the course, following Baty’s advice not to get bogged down with notions of quality.
“It’s not as hard and scary as it seems,” Babcock said, “but you really have to have low expectations for the novel itself.”
After the process itself has been completed, a year may then be dedicated to editing the novel, although there is also a Nanoedmo, or National Novel Editing Month for truly dedicated novelists.
Students who are interested in participating in Nanowrimo should not be discouraged by the approaching November deadline. Nanowrimo can be implemented any month of the year, although Baty claims that working on your novel alongside over 100,000 other participants is a great motivator to win the 50,000 word mark.
Babcock urges students to consider trying the Nanowrimo experience, even if they do not have any interest in writing as a profession.
“I don’t think I really would want to be a novelist for a job, but I may do it again next year because I think it’s good for the soul and the mental aspect of one’s life,” Babcock said.
Lecturer Sam Gosling delves into aspects of psychology for packed house on Nov. 12
By ROBERT HICKS
Staff Writer
On Thursday, November 12, UTPB was endowed the privilege of hosting yet another interesting speaker with a bounty of knowledge and wisdom.
Students, faculty members, and other supporters of the campus gathered in the Library Lecture Hall to listen to Samuel Gosling, an internationally recognized Ph. D in social psychology, present a thought-provoking and mind-jogging speech on the realms of psychology and some functions of the mind.
For an hour and a half, Gosling engaged the audience in a most ingenious lecture on his study of social perception and how people form impressions on the basis of others’ behavior, on what they look like, and on cues in the physical environment. The things we see on the outside of a person, such as the tidiness of his room, the music on his ipod, and the layout of his Facebook or Myspace, influence external perceptions of another’s personality and character.
He also discussed his research on animals and how it informs theories of personality and social psychology. He uses his findings in the behavior of dogs and cats to compare with the realms of human personality.
Gosling touched on the five main traits by which people discern the personality of others and profile strangers which he called the big five.
Gosling has published many works; the most well-known of these is his book Snoops: What Your Stuff Says about You. After the speech, he conducted a book signing and offered answers to any questions audience members had.
“The Gosling lecture is great for our psychology program and the growth of our university,” said Psychology professor and chairman, Dr. Spencer Thompson. “The more events we continue to hold like this the more we will grow as a university.”
Students invited to view process of art class’s annual iron pour
By DIANNE LEYVA
Staff Writer
UTPB sculpture and 3D design students poured their molds in the foundry yard behind the Visual Arts Studio Monday, November 9.
“We put bricks together, lay them face down, and put sand over them. The sand dries for about two days, and then the process is repeated on the other side,” sophomore, Audrianna Hinojosa said.
These molds are then poured into a cupola, a furnace in which the iron is cast. UTPB prides itself in having the largest academic cupola in the state. Since temperatures can reach approximately 2400 degrees during the pouring of cast iron, many safety precautions are required. Fire extinguishers and a water hose must be accessible to prevent a disaster.
The process includes the charge preparation, in which the iron is busted into hand- size pieces and is treated with 2 oz marble chips. After the long process of the “burn-in” is over, which can last for approximately 2 hours, the blast process begins. A large blower is connected to the wind belt. When the molten iron emerges, the bot is removed and molten iron is delivered into the preheated ladle. Another bot is placed in the hole and molds are poured into the mold line.
The end result is a piece of art for yet another class of 3D art and Sculpture students.
Volume 28, Issue 6: 11-12-09
Second Life to revive students
Virtual reality brings the classroom to the web
By DIANNE LEYVA
Staff Writer
The UT system will join Second Life and pursue student engagement in an educational experience, one limited only by the depth of one’s creativity and imagination. Each of the 16 universities will contain three islands. Each campus will be creating the necessary Second Life project plan, which corresponds with its overall tasks. The purpose is for the 16 universities within the UT system to serve as learning models for other statewide systems.
Although at times, it is incorrectly perceived as nothing more than a video game or a social network, Second Life has many attributes and allows for much more than simple interaction. Second Life, created in 2003 by Linden Lab, is the largest 3D virtual world environment. This network is the work of imagination; it is an online virtual world designed by the user. Today, there are about 360 million transactions within Second Life.
It is used for commercial, educational, business and networking purposes. With the use of a customized avatar, the users, known as residents, may visit and interact within the grid. Second Life uses SLURL’s as links to websites within the grid that teleports the avatar from place to place. “It is the recreation of anything you can do in real life,” Oneita Burgess, director of UTPB’s REACH department, said. There are no boundaries; everything within it is a replication of the real world.
In Second Life, the students can interact, attend class and perform the tasks their professors require. Second Life allows the students to visit historical monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids of Giza and others all from their home computers. For scientific research students are able to view organs in 3D, something that has been previously unavailable. The UT system’s involvement in Second life makes it the largest virtual learning environment in existence.
Using Second Life has its benefits. It allows for the reduction of travel costs and still produces the desired effects in regard to business. For educational purposes, Second Life has become the necessary tool to bypass all geographical boundaries and reduce the need for brick and mortar. Second Life will not be a requirement for all undergraduates; however, professors may require certain tasks within Second Life.
For more information about Second Life you can visit secondlife.com.
Sandstorm hosts Poetry Night
By AMBER BATURA
Copy Editor
UTPB was home of the annual Poetry Night event on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2009, hosted by the Sandstorm committee. The event kicked off at 7 pm, with students and faculty reading both their own creative works and those of famous authors.
“[Poetry Night] is a fun way for students to show off their own creativity,” said Marshalla Hutson, a member of the Sandstorm committee Board.
The participants and guests assembled seemed to agree as they listened and enjoyed a witty satire concerning healthcare, a love letter from a stalker, and tales from a Vampire P.I. In addition, English professors Dr. Jason Lagapa, Dr. Mark Wildermuth, and Dr. Todd Richardson read both original works and classic poetry.
Taking advantage of the open mic, numerous students took to the stage and read original pieces.
“Obviously, we want to get people together in a creative atmosphere, but also we want people (writers in disguise) to have a venue to express their creativity and we want people to become aware of Sandstorm and what it is,” said commitee member, Katie Strain.
Hutson agrees that Poetry Night offers a creative outlet for a wide range of students. “Poetry Night provides a way for student voices to be heard through their own words in their own ways,” Hutson said.
This semester’s Poetry Night is not the only event taking place this year. Sandstorm plans to host another Poetry Night in the spring semester as well.
Sandstorm encourages students to submit their original short stories, poetry, essays, and art. Deadlines are still open, and all you have to do is save your work onto a CD-R with your name, address, phone number and email and leave it in a drop box located outside of MB 4102.
UTPB moves from WebCT to Blackboard 9
By DIANNE LEYVA
Staff Writer
The upcoming spring semester will bring about many changes within UTPB. Along with the Second Life project comes the transition from Web CT to Blackboard 9. “We were outdated with Web CT,” Oneita Burgess, director of UTPB’s REACH, said. “This is a big step for us.”
Students and faculty will now be exposed to a different source of communication. Blackboard promises to be customizable, user friendly and compatible with Facebook and iphones.
To ensure that all students are knowledgeable and able to utilize blackboard, the students will be offered orientation and training sessions after the winter break. Faculty and staff are currently training in Blackboard. The transition will take place at the beginning of spring semester.
“Students will communicate across the institution,” Burgess said. Blackboard holds a variety of features, including a display of all tasks to be performed, a calendar, online tele-campus, and webmail. With a new user interface, the updated web 2.0 contains a customizable interface with drag and drop features which allows the student to create unique arrangements. Blackboard 9 also has additional features such as blogs and journals. The blogs are available for teacher and student review. Students with disabilities are able to rearrange information and the improved sheet readers allow for easier access and improved legibility. The change promises to not only create better student-teacher communication, but also to allow students to organize and communicate with each other.
Volume 28, Issue 5: 10-29-09
Woodward & Bernstein thrill UTPB
By ROBERT HICKS
Staff Writer
Earlier this month, UTPB had the privilege of hosting two Americans who held a major role in bringing to light President’ Richard Nixon’s role in the Watergate Scandal: Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein
As reporters for the Washington Post, the two teamed up to report on the June 17, 1972 burglary of the headquarters of the Democratic National Committee in a Washington, D.C. office building called Watergate.
Their work, under editor Benjamin C. Bradlee, became known for being the first of its kind to report on a number of political “dirty tricks” used by the Nixon re-election committee during his campaign for reelection. For their work, which lead to the eventual resignation of Nixon, Bernstein and Woodward won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service in 1973. In 1974, they co-authored a book about the scandal entitled, “All the President’s Men” which became a #1 best-seller and was later turned into a movie.
On October 15, the two men spoke in front of a full gym of spectators from the Midland-Odessa area, telling their story of how they went about catching the President of the United States in perhaps the greatest political scandal and collapse in the history of America.
For two engaging hours, the two explained how much of an impact great journalism can make and how they achieved their goal with the painstaking effort of getting a story at any cost; and as Woodward put it, “never taking ‘no’ for an answer”
They also enlightened the audience on their opinions of the last and current presidencies, pointing out some mistakes they believe George W. Bush made during his term and comments on the current Obama administration.
The two pointed out congruencies between Nixon and George W. Bush’s legacy. They said that Nixon made many mistakes in how he handled the media and Bush seemed to let these reoccur.
Bernstein said that both had character flaws that made them “not up for the job” and carried out actions they believed were “morally infallible,” despite the uncertain legality of some of their policies.
Woodward argued that Bush did not abuse his power as Nixon often did. He accused Nixon of using his power as a means to threaten political opponents.
He added that Bush did things that he genuinely believed were right, which was not always the case for Nixon.
Concerning the current presidency, Bernstein and Woodward said Barack Obama’s term so far appears to be subject to outside dialogue, but it is difficult to get an accurate delineation of Obama’s tendencies so early in his administration.
After the discussion drew to an end, the audiences was able to purchase a copy of Woodward and Bernstein’s, “All the President’s Men,” and have it signed by the two men.
It was truly an honor to listen to these men, who are arguably the most influential political journalists in modern day. Through their anecdotes and retellings of the work and sacrifices they have made to get where they are today, Woodward and Bernstein maintain a clichéd but ever infallible virtue: don’t ever give up.
Haunted Hallways of UTPB
University’s alleged ghost causes speculation around campus
By AMBER BATURA
Copy Editor
he name “Matilda” whispers through the university’s corridors and classrooms, and is uttered with ths same frequency as “Dr. Watts” or “The Cafeteria.” Though her name may be familiar, few students have experienced her presence or have ever been properly introduced to the lonely woman who haunts the halls of UTPB.
The most common legend claims that Matilda, as she has come to be called, was either the wife or girlfriend of a construction worker on campus during the construction of the Mesa Building in the early 70s. He killed her (the circumstances unknown and vague) and buried her body somewhere in the building. The most popular story is that her body is located somewhere in the foundation for stairwell six. Legend states that she mostly haunts the fourth floor, the Student Union women’s restroom, and the sixth stairwell. To many, this story is just that – a legend, a scary story to tell new freshmen. But, after delving deeper into this story, it seems our resident ghost is much more than just another spooky tale.
In the 80s and 90s, there seemed to be a plethora of strange occurrences taking place on campus. Numerous tales were reported of people running out of the Mesa Building late at night after summer classes, terrified because they were touched by something that was not there or they heard noises. There is one story of a man in the 80s who had access to the Geology department labs late at night to work on his thesis. Often there late at night and into the early morning, strange noises and knocks seemed commonplace to him after awhile. On more than one occasion, a knock would sound at the lab door and when opened, there would be no one there. On such a night, he was working on his thesis when a knock sounded on the door. He rose to answer, expecting nothing on the other side, but when he opened the door a woman, dressed in white and notably angry, appeared right in front of his face. Startled, he watched as she walked down the hall and disappeared. He searched, but never caught sight of a young woman in white the rest of the night.
In an old edition of The Oasis, the campus newspaper in 1980, an officer wrote of his encounter with the paranormal. As he and the dispatcher were working on paperwork in the P.D. office around 2 a.m. one Saturday, a “sad and forlorn” female voice whispered “‘Bill, come heeere.'” The officer reported that he thought it was his imagination, but the dispatcher had heard the voice as well. Again, the woman’s voice called for the officer, seemingly through the security speaker. They searched the building as well as the rest of the campus and found no indication of another living soul on campus that night.
Years later, sometime during the 90s, Dr. Wildermuth’s Gothic Literature class celebrated the end of the semester with a party. The plan was to watch “X-Files” episodes, a new series released that he used to illustrate themes in classic horror and that many of the students had become enthralled with, and play with a Talking Board to see what would happen. They really had no intention of contacting spirits.
As a group of students began to use the Talking Board (similar to the Ouija Board), the planchette began to move too fast. Some of the students claimed to feel a strange electricity around them. “A presence of some kind was talking to us,” Dr. Wildermuth said.
The presence identified herself only as ‘K’. When the students asked if she was responsible for the strange occurrences around campus, she responded that she was the culprit. At the time, books in the library would fall off shelves and door handles would turn hot and burn people’s hands as they tried to open them. When asked, she affirmed that she had been murdered and was indeed buried on campus, but she would not go into detail. Of the 35 people that started the party off, only ten remained at the end of the night, according to Dr. Wildermuth.
“We were playing a joke on ourselves; we never realized anything would happen.” Dr. Wildermuth said.
The activity is not all in the past though. Five years ago, a group of freshman students were interested in trying to contact the ghost again and approached Dr. Wildermuth. They again used a Talking Board, and the contact was even stronger. The planchette moved faster than it had the previous time and the presence interacted much more with these students. “They were very open-minded. They asked her personal questions about relatives or their lives on campus,” Dr. Wildermuth said. “Once, she [the ghost] even spelled out the name of one of the girl’s roommates.”
This group asked for a more definite sign of her presence. The spirit instructed them to go down to the piano on the first floor. When they approached, the piano began to hum.
There are many more accounts of seeing a woman dressed in white playing the piano and walking the hallways. Students, faculty and staff alike have had experiences that they cannot explain. Is it possible that all of these people only imagined these occurrences, or is there much more to the legend of Matilda? Whether truth or fiction, remember that as you walk down the halls of UTPB, you may not be walking alone.
Volume 28, Issue 4: 10-15-09
Presidential Museum closes doors
By ROBERT HICKS
Staff Writer
A prestigious and historical piece of pride for West Texans, the Presidential Museum has seemingly lost its appeal, and for the last few years, the museum has been struggling to stay open and keep history alive in the Permian Basin.
The doors have now been officially closed, and it seems that the museum may be in peril if it cannot receive the funds it needs to stay functioning.
Nearly a half century ago, the Presidential Museum was built as a memorial to commemorate the death of President John F. Kennedy and has emerged into a unique place to go for one who admires and respects American history and the men who have taken on the daunting task of trying to govern this nation. It is said that the museum is the only one of its kind in the entire country. Sure, there are many libraries and public facilities named for presidents, but there is no museum solely dedicated to the history of each of the country’s forty-four commanders-in-chief.
The 45-year-old museum closed in mid-August of this year after facing insurmountable budget shortfalls and failing to get enough money to keep it running, according to a news release from Presidential Museum curator Lettie England.
England said she could not answer any questions on whether the museum planned to reopen or what would happen to the archives, collections, former President George H.W. Bush’s old Odessa house or any other relics at the museum.
England said the museum has been in bad shape fiscally over the last few months. She unsuccessfully sought $25,000 from Ector County in April and $75,000 from Odessa’s hotel-motel tax fund. The annual operating budget for the museum was estimated between $150,000 and $165,000.
The museum is now looking to its UTPB neighbors for fiscal aid and desiring to establish a “partner-in-education” program with the university. UTPB president, Dr. David Watts, was not able to release any information on actions UTPB was planning to take to fund the museum.
“The allocation of our funds and the future of the museum will all be discussed and determined in a meeting on October 15,” Watts said.
Will one of Odessa’s most revered historical treasures survive or will it be closed forever? In time, the fate of this long-lived and one-of-a-kind museum will be revealed.
Submit to Sandstorm, blow UTPB away
By DIANNE LEYVA
Staff Writer
While it has to compete with the strong Permian Basin wind, The Sandstorm is raising an intellectual breeze at UTPB. Completely based on student submissions, its heart is the art work and literary pieces created by students. The Sandstorm is currently encouraging a drive for submissions from UTPB students.
The purpose of The Sandstorm is to cultivate a literary presence at the university. The promotion for submissions begins in the fall. All students are encouraged to submit photographs, including photographs of 3-dimensional art, poetry, short stories and/or essays. Students may submit as many pieces as they want.
“The important thing is to submit; it just may be better than what you think,” said Mary Boydstun, English graduate student and assistant editor. In addition to the creative opportunities available to students who are accepted, publishing is an accomplishment for students who are interested in going into a literary or artistic field. The first place winners in the categories of cover art, best visual art and best literary piece win a cash prize of $150 each. The Sandstorm will be published in the Spring semester.
“It’s important for students to become a part of the literary community,” said editor Kristen Gipson. “Sometimes students are afraid to submit, because they’re afraid of rejection or afraid of not being what we’re looking for. But, ultimately, The Sandstorm is interested in seeing what UTPB students are thinking, how they are changing or furthering the current literary perspectives. Students need to submit, so we can see that.”
Be on the lookout for Ernest Twain theCowpigdog, unofficial mascot of The Sandstorm and a key part in promotions this year. In addition to distributing the image of “E.T.,” members of The Sandstorm committee will be visiting classrooms and creating flyers and posters to increase awareness of the literary magazine. The early submission deadline for The Sandstorm is October 15, but the regular submission deadline falls in mid-November.
The Sandstorm team will be hosting a poetry night on Tuesday, October 27, from 7-10pm. Open mike will be available for students and staff. The Sandstorm will announce the winners of the Writing Center’s Halloween Writing Contest at the event. Be on the lookout for similar events throughout the year, including a Bad Poetry Night.
“If you don’t have poetry, read a short story, or an excerpt from an essay. We’re definitely interested in getting everyone involved,” Gipson said.
For more information, contact Sandstorm editor, Kristen Gipson, at sandstorm@utpb.edu. All pieces should be turned in to MB 4110 or MB4102 with contact information. Do not lose the opportunity to have your work published.
Announcements made on Texas Emerging Technology Fund
By ROBERT HICKS
Staff Writer
Two professors from the UTPB School of Business partnered with Midland-based Turbo Trac USA, Inc. to help the company establish a grant through the State of Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF). As a result, Turbo Trac received a $2,000,000 investment from TETF. On September 25, TETF director Alan Kirchhoff, announced that of the $2 million, $84,234.58 of that will go to UTPB to fund the work of two faculty members, two graduate assistants, two student assistants and students enrolled in two courses in the School of Business.
Dr. Raj Desai, associate professor of Industrial Technology and Chair of the Department of Engineering and Technology and Dr. Leslie Toombs, professor of Management, co-authored the grant. UTPB’s School of Business has the ability to provide assistance in two areas: the collection of engineering data and the analysis of commercialization opportunities and business case development.
“Turbo Trac Systems Product and Pricing Positioning Study: A Determination of the Product’s Quantified Value Proposition” is the project’s title. According to a news release from UTPB public information officer, Iris Foster, one of the objectives is to determine Turbo Trac’s quantified value proposition as it compares to competitive products in targeted markets and varied applications, and thus maximize its perceived value. The other is to see which market segments and, within those, which application will be most profitable for Turbo Trac based upon market need, application appropriateness, and price sensitivity.
Turbo Trac’s technology is a breakthrough mechanical product that increases manufacturing system efficiency along with significant reaction in energy consumption. With Turbo Trac’s technology, energy-saving premium efficiency motors can be operated without the failure rate that is associated with the current technology of Variable Frequency Drives.
The West Texas Coalition for Innovation and Commercialization was instrumental in capturing these funds for an area business.
Dr. Toombs and Dr. Desai believe this is another terrific opportunity for UTPB students to receive real time, hands-on experience in the work place as they assist Turbo Trac with its work.
Volume 28, Issue 3: 9-30-09
Falcon Fiesta celebrates September 16
By DIANNE LEYVA
Staff Writer
On Sept. 16, UTPB students joined in the celebration of Mexican Independence for the first time. The celebration took place in the Mesa courtyard from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Students enjoyed nachos, drinks and fruit cups. A bit of Mexican culture was shared in this celebration.
A Little Mexican History
The Mexican Revolution was the product of the effort of many. Tired of social inequality and slavery, the Mexican community sought independence. The French’s invasion of Spain under Napoleon’s rule was the perfect opportunity for the fight for independence. The rich, indigenous, and Creoles were weary of the corrupt behavior the Spanish portrayed and united to achieve their independence. To the Spanish eye, the meetings they held appeared to be cultural ones. The leaders of this congregation included intellectuals, politicians and members of the clergy. Among these was priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. Aware of the importance of religion in Mexico, these leaders sought Miguel Hidalgo as a leader to help recruit support for the fight.
The cry for independence was planned for Oct. 2; however, due to unexpected events Hidalgo made the call Sept. 16. They freed the prisoners and apprehended the Spanish. Then, at approximately five in the morning on September 16 of 1810, the church bells rang and the community was called to mass. They were greeted with the yell, “¡Mexicanos, viva México!, ¡Viva la Virgen de Guadalupe!, ¡Viva Fernando VII! y ¡Muera el mal gobierno.” Miguel Hidalgo’s cry for independence initiated the Mexican Revolution which lasted for ten years.
Today, “El Grito” is celebrated on the night of Sept. 15 in the Zocalo of Mexico City. The president rings the bell and repeats the words of Miguel Hidalgo. The cry of Mexican Independence is heard all across Mexico at midnight.
Falcon Fiesta
UTPB celebrated this historical event with several activities. Ballet Folklorico modeled traditional outfits. Each individual dress represented a different state in México.
“The fiesta was fun; it’s nice to see that the Mexican culture is still alive,” said Lizette Rodriguez, a member of the Ballet Folklorico.
Esteban Velasquez, former participant in the reality show “La Academia,” sang songs such as “Estos Celos” by Vicente Fernandez.
The event was organized by Jazmin Sanchez, who holds the Variety Chair for Program Board.
“Since many people don’t know when Mexico’s Independence Day is, I thought it would be really great to expose our students to something different and to enjoy what Mexican heritage has to offer. It is not something that has been celebrated here before, and I wish it could’ve been done like it’s supposed to at midnight and with more entertainment but for our first time it went pretty good,” Sanchez said.
UTPB honors the U.S.’s favorite document
By ROBERT HICKS
Staff Writer
On September 17, many students gathered together to recognize what is arguably the most important and significant event in American history.
More than two centuries earlier, May 25, 1787, 55 determined men representing twelve colonies (Rhode Island did not attend) gathered together, in a Pennsylvania courthouse, to fix and modify the quickly failing government known as the Articles of Confederation.
After nearly four months of ceaseless argument and debate, the Articles of Confederation were completely thrown out and on Sep. 17, a much stronger and more stable document, known as the U.S. Constitution, was placed in its stead.
Though July 4, 1776 is more commonly associated with the birth of our country, it only marks the day on which the Declaration of Independence was signed and the beginning of a successful revolutionary war.
Although the country was technically “born” on July 4, it would actually be eleven more years and two more months before things such as federalism, the electoral college, the bicameral legislature, the checks and balances system, and all the other unique governmental ideas which we, as Americans, are all familiar with, would be established with the creation of the Constitution of the United States of America.
“Constitution Day is important because it celebrates the rights and freedoms we hold as Americans,” junior Diego Olivares said. “If it weren’t for the Constitution, the United States would not be a country right now.”
Students celebrated the event in a room decorated with red, white, and blue, listening to uplifting speakers, and eating hotdogs – the classic American treat.
“It was neat to take part in the event,” junior Lauren Disney said. “The Constitution is the most important document we have and needs to be celebrated.”
Some of the attendees were most impressed by the speeches given in honor of the day.
“It was very inspirational. It made me realize how lucky I am to live in this country,” freshman Mayela Everts said. “I think a lot of times we take our freedom for granted, and we need to take time to give respect to our fore-fathers who put their lives on the line and accomplished their goal in creating a nation of opportunity and liberty.”
“I am proud to be an American, and I want my future generations to feel the same way,” Olivares says. “No one should ever forget those who were responsible for creating this country.”
Seliger and Lewis address clean coal and education
By AMBER BATURA
Copy Editor
State Sen. Kel Seliger, R – Amarillo, and State Rep. Tryon Lewis, R – Odessa, spoke at a Town Hall Meeting concerning the past legislative session at the UTPB Library Lecture Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2009.
Seliger and Lewis talked briefly about some of the bills debated in the 81st Legislature, but the main focus was on education and the new clean coal bill.
HB 469 provides state incentives for companies that generate a coal gasification plant that has a capacity of at least 200 megawatts, captures at least 70 percent of carbon dioxide (CO2) produced, and supplies the captured CO2 for an enhanced oil recovery project, among other requirements.
“It’s a huge win for us,” Lewis said. “It is a huge win for this country.”
With the captured CO2 supplied from the clean coal plant, the Permian Basin would be able to retrieve 10 billion barrels of oil, Lewis said.
Seliger praised Lewis for his work on the clean coal bill and turned the focus to education. “Public schools are always a priority to the [Texas] Legislature,” Seliger said.
Seliger discussed working with schools to come up with an accountability program that would test students over time instead of the present pass/fail system with the TAKS testing.
“The point of public education is to prepare young people for what comes next [not just for college but] for them to pursue their aspirations,” Seliger said.
Seliger also added that the Legislature is working to make college educations more affordable, and praised UTPB as one of the best values for its cost. He added that the Legislature put over $200 million toward higher education this past session.
“Students are important,” Keliger said. “That is why so many of these town hall meetings are held at campuses.” Seliger said. He encouraged students to get involved in local politics because it affects them as well. “This is their government, too.”
Volume 28, Issue 2: 9-17-09
Club Day 2009
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
On Thurs., Sept. 10, students gathered once again in the Mesa Building courtyard for Club Day. New and returning clubs set up shop for the day to promote interest in their organizations and to provide opportunities for students.
Inside the Mesa Building, students lined up for a seasonal treat: free flu shots. Some other organizations present at the event included the university’s literary magazine, The Sandstorm, Student Senate, the Gamer’s Club, the Biology Club, most of the university’s honor societies, and the Career Services Center.
Enrollment increases for Fall 2009 semester
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
According to the registration report for Fall 2009, enrollment is up at UT Permian Basin from Fall 2008. The undergraduate department alone shows a 46.6 percent state-reported, paid headcount change from last year. By the eleventh day of class, 2,792 undergraduate students (paid and unpaid) were enrolled in the university as opposed to the 2,706 from last year.
Students may most visibly notice the increase in enrollment in the growth of both automotive and foot traffic around campus. The new Science & Technology Center and Student Multi-purpose Center, which are now in construction, should help to accomodate UTPB’s growing numbers.
What the doctor ordered
University takes action to minimize H1N1 impact
By TINA L. ARONS
Contributing Staff Writer
Flu season begins next month and many people may be more worried about their health than in previous years, with the threat of the H1N1 virus thrown into the seasonal-flu mix.
But students at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin can rest assured that university officials are keeping their eyes on the situation.
Lail Grant, interim director of the physical plant and the university’s safety coordinator, said UTPB has taken measures to reduce the impact of H1N1, more commonly referred to as swine flu.
The cleaning staff has doubled up on the number of times bathrooms on campus are cleaned, Grant said. Also, they’ve increased the concentration of antimicrobial chemicals used to clean surfaces.
Although the flu is a virus, Grant said the antimicrobial chemicals remove material on surfaces even if they don’t specifically target viruses.
“By removing material on the surface,” he said, “that leaves nothing to transmit.”
Other steps the physical plant has taken include increased emphasis on employees washing their hands, Grant said. Also, campus restrooms now have flyers reminding students to wash their hands.
Students should also notice more than 150 alcohol-based sanitizer stations placed across campus. The station appears to be a stand with a soap dispenser and students will be able to clean their hands with alcohol-based sanitizer instead of soap and water.
“We’re hoping we can lessen the impact of flu on the faculty, staff and students,” Grant said.
Updates about the H1N1 virus will be sent through Falcon Alert and students who aren’t signed up are encouraged to do so, he said.
Another preventative measure students can take is to get vaccinated. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention Web site reports that the H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available this fall. Seasonal flu vaccines may already be available at some clinics.
The seasonal flu vaccine is not expected to protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu, according to the CDC. However, people can safely receive both vaccines to help prevent both types of flu.
The seasonal flu vaccine was provided free to students with a current student ID on Sept. 10 in the Mesa Building Lobby. Faculty and staff will be provided free seasonal flu vaccinations at a different time.
Dr. Juan Garcia, who provides services on campus two days a week, said approximately 150 seasonal flu vaccines were available during this first clinic.
Other free clinics are in the planning stage including possible H1N1 vaccines when they become available, maybe at the end of October or November.
High-risk groups will have the first chance to receive the initial batch of about 50 million doses of H1N1 vaccine nationwide. According to the CDC, this group includes pregnant women, children and young adults up to age 24, those caring for children and people with chronic health problems weakening their immune system.
Garcia said people should use the same prevention strategies for the H1N1 virus as they do for the seasonal flu. Two of the most important strategies are washing hands and self isolation.
“Even if people do not have a fever, they’re contagious,” he said. “They are shedding the virus through respiratory droplets such as sneezing or coughing.”
Garcia said people should seek medical attention as soon as they begin to feel flu symptoms – such as more than a day of high fever – because medications to treat both H1N1 and seasonal flu are most effective within 48 hours of the first symptoms.
According to the CDC, most symptoms of the H1N1 virus are similar to symptoms of seasonal flu, although vomiting and diarrhea has been reported more commonly with H1N1 flu than seasonal flu.
Although it is possible to test for the H1N1 virus at a local hospital, Garcia said the tests can be expensive, and it is cheaper to treat the infection with antiviral medication, which is prescribed for both the H1N1 virus and the seasonal flu virus.
“People do have a right to be cautious,” he said. “Those ages 5 to 24 have a higher risk for more severe cases of the H1N1 virus. With the seasonal flu, it’s the opposite. It affects the very young and very old.”
Students who need to see a doctor can visit Garcia’s on-campus clinic from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and Thursday in Falcon Room 103.
For those who need assistance at other times or want to make an appointment for a flu shot, Garcia will be available at the West Texas Wellness Clinic located at 601 East 7th St. Patients can call 552-0300 to make an appointment.
Volume 28, Issue 1: 8-27-09
Missing: 3 students
By RENAE LUDRICK
Assistant Editor
UTPB will be missing three students when the Fall semester starts as Gaven Norris, Kelly Combs, and Josh Zuniga will be interning at various government agencies as part of the Bill Archer Fellowship Program. Not only will the students be interning, but they will also be taking about 12 semester credit hours at nearby universities.
It is unique for three students from UTPB to be attending the program, as only two students have been selected from UTPB in the past. Students are eligible to apply from all 17 University of Texas campuses, and only 25-30 students are selected to attend the program each year.
“At some places we talked to, a lot more students applied, UT – Austin had over 400 students apply. So we feel lucky that 3 out of the 30 selected are coming from UTPB,” Gaven Norris said, who will be attending classes at Georgetown University while interning.
“I’m really excited,” said Josh Zuniga, “I first heard about it in class last year, and had visited Washington before. It was one of the places that really caught my attention. I applied, things kept looking better and better, and here I am going.”
The process of getting selected for the program was a long and grueling ordeal for interested participants.
“They [the students] had to compile a resume, a portfolio, and go through several interviews, including with the Director of the Archer Program,” said Dr. Carol Traut.
The program begins interviewing students throughout the school year. Interested students for the 2010 program can contact the Bill Archer Fellowship Program and there will be several fliers placed around campus notifying those interested in when to apply.
Construction closes part of UTPB circle
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
Since August 19, UTPB’s circle drive has been partially closed off, due to construction. After careful deliberation, university officials decided that, due to construction on the UTPB campus, the East part of UTPB Circle (between the gym and student housing) would be barricaded. This doesn’t mean that students won’t have access to the gym or the Visual Arts building. However, they are advised to detour to the West part of the UTPB Circle.
This decision should ensure the safety of students, visitors to the UTPB campus, and the construction crews that are working near the prohibited area.
Students should not attempt to weave through the barricades. This is strictly prohibited and will result in a traffic fine.
Back-to-School bargains
How to save on supplies, books, tuition, and more
By KRISTEN GIPSON
Editor-in-Chief
With tuition on the rise, most college students are worried enough about where their meals are coming from. They don’t need the added stress of figuring out how to pay off a $500+ book bill. If you haven’t already picked up your textbooks, check out these tips and tricks from students for whom searching clearance bins is, by now, second nature.
Books
The Internet, apart from hosting social networking sites popular to college students, is one of the best tools for students wishing to save money. Even new, rare or out-of-print books can be found used on sites like abebooks.com or amazon.com. Textbooks can even be rented on http://www.chegg.com, which promises to plant a tree for every book rented. Plans allow students to “rent” textbooks for a drastically reduced price, for 60 days, a quarter, or a full semester.
This price includes free return shipping. As an example, a book priced in the UTPB Bookstore (used) as $115.25 is available on chegg.com for $52.52. The site guarantees delivery date, quality of the books (like new) and, if the book is returned within 30 days, a free refund.
Books for History and English classes can be found on the Internet, as well, although a more expedient venture might be tracking down the nearest used bookstore, and ascertaining their selection before wasting time with shipping and handling fees, which often boost the cost of books substantially. The Bookworm, in Odessa, located on 517 N. Grant in Odessa offers a wide selection of literature staples. In addition, the used bookstore has a credit program, in which customers can bring in unwanted novels for store credit, which goes to slashing the already reduced prices of books.
School Supplies
Students who want to save money on school supplies are better off keeping their eyes open for the same sales that every smart-shopping PTA mom is looking for. Stores like Staples, Target, Office Depot, and Wal Mart usually have back-to-school sales, in which normally priced items can go as low as $1 or even a penny. However, the buyer should beware that these sales don’t always last long, and sometimes involve time-consuming rebates. In addition, the college shopper might find himself fighting with third-graders for the best writing utensils. If the student isn’t label conscious, there is always the Dollar Tree located near campus.
Dorm Supplies
Sure, there is a stereotype that most dorms are outfitted with bean bags instead of arm chairs and old tests for coasters. But when the coffee table/cardboard box caves in, it’s time to invest in some cheap dorm furniture. Stores like Target and Bed, Bath, and Beyond (in Midland) usually carry cheap furniture and supplies specifically designed for college students, but the best way to search for long-lasting and inexpensive furniture is to hit the Classifieds and stake out yard sales.
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