by Jeannette De La Paz
Alejandra Diaz has won as Vice President. As an incumbent, she is glad that the people were in her favor and hopes she can help improve the future of the Student Government Association, students, and TAMIU as a whole.
The Student Body Vice President serves as President in the absence or incapacity of the President. The Vice President can serve for two terms. Alejandra Diaz has served as Vice President for a year. Previously she served as senator-at-large in 1997, and in the fall of 1997, she resigned and took the Vice President position that was vacant.
Alejandra Diaz feels that she did not campaign as much as she wanted to simply because she was performing her duties as acting vice-president. Her opponentÕs platform had false promises and contained issues that were already brought up by the people such as the light at the intersection of the Loop 20 and the university boulevard. Yet in the long run, she is satisfied with the ending results, ÒThere were no mistakes and the results were fair.Ó
She became interested in running for the position again because she wanted to back up the President in executive matters as he saw fit. Her plans for the remaining year and upcoming year in S.G.A. include to end the year well and maintain the same concern for students. Ms. DiazÕs expectations are to link the university and the city council to work with the students in order to come into a understanding. In general, she wants to eliminate the ignorance that people have that S.G.A are not doing anything for the student body by holding town hall meetings at the University. At this hall meetings, students can voice their opinions. She feels that by listening and acting upon it, she can help satisfy the studentÕs needs.
As Vice President, her relationship with the President Arturo Sanchez, is both professionally and friendship wise. She backs the President in executive matters and sees eye-to -eye on most issues. In the past, both have worked well side by side such as sponsoring an open forum for C.O.B.A. regarding class scheduling. As a team they were able to establish a business relationship with the city council on public transportation issues. They also remain in good with the deans at different colleges including the President of the University Dr. J. Charles Jennett.
Ms. DiazÕs main concern in the future include issues that are presented by the senators, and to have more student involvement as a whole. Alejandra Diaz will be sworn in on April 24, in accordance with the Constitution of the Texas A&M International Student Government Association, in Article 5 of Bylaws Section 1 #1, which states that the swearing in ceremonies are to be held in one regular student meeting before the last regular Student Senate meeting.
The final tally was 191 to 137. Alejandra Diaz won by 54 votes.
Texas A&M International University's Student Government Association had its General Elections on March 30 and 31, 1998. For all of you Dust Devils out there who are curious about knowing the results, here they are...(by the way, there was 12% people voting...not bad at all.)
**Please note that these results will be official on April 3, 1998. However, offices will be taken until August '98.
PRESIDENT:
|Arturo Sanchez
VICE-PRESIDENT:
Alejandra Diaz
SENATORS--
ARTS & HUMANITIES:
Laura Rodriguez
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION:
Sandra Gonzalez
Albert Chavez
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY:
Jacklyn Gallegos
Eduardo Gonzalez
AT-LARGE UNDERGRAD:
Cynthia Garza
Margie Colon
GRAD AT-LARGE:
Abraham Rivera
Justices--
C.O.B.A.
Halia Valladares
JUSTICE AT-LARGE:
Pedro Saenz
Congratulations to the SGA officers, senators, and judges for the '98-'99 school year. Good Luck to all of you in making decisions to better our university!!!
by James Buckley
On Saturday, February 21, many Laredoans were enjoying the WBCA parade. Also, that morning some officials and interested civilians gathered at the International Bridge II for the Abrazos event. Abrazos is a tradition where a representative of Mexico and the United States literally hug symbolically representing the two countries peaceful relations. This year another event was held within earshot of the peace event with a very different purpose.
A small group of people gathered at the Los Dos Laredos Park under the first international bridge. Flyers were distributed around the TAMIU campus reading ÒJoin us...to call attention to militarization of our border and to honor those who have died needlessly like Ezekiel Hernandez...high school student, innocent, and shot to death May 20, 1997Ó. The event, as a statement, was purposely planned at the same time as the Abrazos and as close as possible to the other event.
Speakers including Norma Cantu, Sandra Cisneros, Anne Wallace and a Vietnam Veteran came together to bring to light their fear of Laredo becoming a demilitarized zone like Vietnam and other places. There is a road being built along the border which, to these people, is the beginning of LaredoÕs transformation into a DMZ. This road can be seen from the edge of Laredo Community College along the border.
The rally was suppose to begin at 8am but was unfortunately delayed till close to 10am. Traffic downtown was severely restricted by the parade route and the sky threatened to rain. Fortunately it only mildly drizzled. Sandra Cisneros could be seen wearing a United States flag with little hand-held flags in her hair. A friend of hers from Austin wore the Mexican flag in the same fashion. She felt they looked Òlike super heroesÓ with the flags flapping in the wind like a cape. Norma Cantu had a cloth with the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe pinned to the back of her denim jacket. Curiously enough, as the people set-up their equipment a border patrol vehicle parked along the low park wall mere yards away from the rally.
Norma Cantu was the first speaker. She had a brother who was killed in Vietnam about thirty years ago. She had visited Vietnam last August and seen areas that were kept as monuments to the horror of what happened during the war there. From what she saw there she fears Laredo could become another Vietnam. She feels this road is the first step to that happening and that the impending militarization and the destruction that has followed has been visible for the last five years. In fact she mentioned this militarization as beginning with Reagan in 1986 under the excuse of being necessary for the war on drugs. She mentioned that the border has not been so militarized since 1848 when it was supposedly necessary to protect the United States areas.
Sandra Cisneros made comparisons between Laredo, San Antonio and East Los Angeles to Sarayevo. She was in Sarayevo in 1983. She wondered to herself, Òwhat am I, daughter of Mexican parents, doing here?Ó. A war broke out in Sarayevo in 1993. A Òsister-friendÓ of hers was in that war. She decided to be Òa one person demonstration like chicken littleÓ to represent her friend and other women who had suffered in that war. She would stand in silence with a sign for one hour every Saturday for her peace vigil. Eventually she stopped but kept lighting a candle for her cause. She said the Òmilitary presence could be the loss of life...I hope today we can be at peace, be human candles...all our actions become our sign... We are all hijos of immigrants.Ó She then initiated a moment of silence for peace and in memory of Ezekiel Hernandez.
Nina Peralez came to the rally to speak on her experiences with MALDEF. As a member of this legal defense effort Nina has represented Mexican-Americans like the two women from Bravo who had environmental issues they felt the military failed to assess with the construction of the controversial road that affected Rio Bravo. MALDEF, the Mexican-American Legal Defense Education Fund, was able to help these women to get the military to keep from building over archeological sites or the nature trail at LCC and to admit to not having proper erosion controls. She felt it was unfortunate that the courts were unwilling to focus on the use of the road and the need for helipads along the road. She is not convinced that Òthe military only built those pads for practice...Ó and also wondered who was paying for the road. She, also, does not know why the fifty foot wide, two lane road is rated for tanks. She urged the audience to call their representatives and find out. The Rio Bravo women were also concerned how the militaryÕs road would cause traffic to cut through Rio Bravo.
Anne Wallace is from San Antonio and is worried that Laredo is a testing ground Òfor shrinking of human rights...how much people will tolerate...Ó and feels ÒweÕve aloud ourselves to be swayed by fears ofÓ the incoming drugs and illegal immigrants across the border, fooling ourselves thinking we would be safer. She said the military is using the Drug War to maintain itself now that the Cold War is over. She mentioned that Luis Melendez, a public defender in Laredo ten years ago, said ÒLaredo was living under martial law.Ó
Harry Adams is a Vietnam veteran who feels the militarization of the border has been going on for a long time. To him it is a very complex problem that did not start in Laredo and will not stop here either. He agrees that this problem is like Vietnam and that the war on drugs is just an excuse. He asks that we realize that the soldiers are not to blame and that the soldiers are not trained to handle a police action even though that is what is being asked of them. He said that the military feels all America south of the border is part of their jurisdiction.
Other speakers were invited to talk and afterwards Norma Cantu ended the rally with an invitation to everyone to join a candle light vigil which will be held March 31 in front of San Augustin Church.
Violence against women is nothing new; but it will be getting a new voice on the TAMIU campus. Scheduled for April 1st and 2nd was an exhibit of the ÒClothesline ProjectÓ in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Gay Lesbian Bisexual Awareness Month, and Child Abuse Prevention Month. The project can be viewed between noon and 6pm, with an opening ceremony and moment of silence at noon on April 1st This event is sponsored by the Safety, Health, and Wellness committee, Women Advancing Women student organization, and in cooperation with the ChildrenÕs Coalition.
The TAMIU and Laredo communities will view an outdoor display of shirts with messages and drawings designed by women survivors of violence or by friends and family in honor of a woman affected by violence. Shirts can be color coded in the following manner, but many women choose a color or shirt with a special meaning for them:
White = women who have died as a result of violence
Red, pink, or orange = women who have been raped or sexually
assaulted
Yellow or beige = women who have been battered or assaulted
Blue or green = women survivors of incest or childhood sexual abuse
Purple or lavender = women attacked because of their sexual
orientation
Black = women who have been gang-raped
Grey = women attacked because of their race, color, or creed
The stories told on these shirts are meant to increase awareness and educate about the impact of violence. Current statistics (from November 1993 National Victim Center) show that a woman is battered every 14 seconds in the U.S.; that a woman is raped every minute of every day in the U.S.; and that 3 to 4 women die every day as a result of domestic violence. Breaking the silence of abuse is difficult and even more so in Latino households. In recognition of the pain, shame, anger, or other emotion that can surface while viewing this exhibit, counselors will be on hand to assist. Various community agencies from Laredo will have table displays on April 1st from noon to 4:00pm to distribute information to interested persons. Also, women survivors are invited to bring a shirt to add to the project; a room will be set aside for women wishing to create their own shirt and help begin the TAMIU/Laredo Clothesline Project. For more information, contact Viky Garcia at 326-2260, Gaby Mendoza at 326-2280 or e-mail vgarcia@tamiu.edu.
ItÕs time to celebrate! We will provide the food, festivity, and fun! All you have to do is attend the University Life Awards on April 14, 1998 at 6:00 p.m. in the Great Room. The Department of Student Development will be hosting an event to acknowledge the contributions you have made to your student organization.
At this event, awards will be given in the following categories: Outstanding Community Service Award, Most Outstanding Sponsor Award, Leader of the Year, Freshman Excellence Award, Most Active Student Organization of the Year, and the Coolest Shirt.
To be considered, all you must do is nominate a member, sponsor, or your own student organization. The nomination forms have been attached to this document and must be returned by April 7, 1998 at 5:00 p.m. to the Department of Student Development, KCB 107.
This year the student organization that wins the Most Active Student Organization and Community Service Award will be eligible to receive desk space for the Fall 1998-Spring 1999 academic semester in the Kinesiology/Convocation Building.
The University Life Awards is an opportunity for you and your student organization to be recognized for all your hard work. Good Luck! See you there!
by Carina Irene Aguirre
The WomenÕs Studies Organization kicked of their 3rd anniversary celebration with WomenÕs History Month and Primavera 1998.
The entire month of March hosted different activities that celebrated women. On March 21, a one day conference was held featuring panels and discussions about health, border life, and life in bilingual communities.
ÒPrimavera 1998Ó hosted by Las Mujeres and WomenÕs Studies featured 150 years of women artists in South Texas.
Jeri Kraver, Assistant Professor of English at Texas A&M International and sponsor of WomenÕs Studies said, Òthe conference gives students opportunities to gauge issues that are fundamental to women studies.Ó
People from all over the United States, faculty and students, presented essays on women on the border.
The Women Studies Group also welcomed a new change this month. The Organization will in the future be called Women and Gender Studies, hoping to address the social construction of men and women.
ÒWe hope that by expanding the focus of WomenÕs Studies to include Gender Studies, more men will join us as we seek to forge lines of communication between men and womenÓ said Kraver.
Are you interested in participating in a great leadership experience here at Texas A&M International University? Well, the Orientation Leader (OL) program is recruiting new OLs who would plan, prepare, and conduct NEW STUDENT ORIENTATIONÕ98. OLs receive a three day leadership training experience and get to use those skills during New Student Orientation. Throughout the Orientation program, OLs serve as a team leader for approximately 16 students; organize ice breakers, warm-ups, and games for students; enhance public speaking skills by presenting topics before a large audience of students and parents, meet key administrators, faculty, and staff at TAMIU, learn how to work with a diverse student body, and much more. Orientation Leader applications are available at the Department of Student Development, KCB 107 and Career Planning and Placement, KLB 157. Applications are due April 13, 1998 at the Department of Student Development. For more information contact Gabriela Mendoza, Associate Director of Student Development, at 326-2280.
by Ismael H. Hinojosa
Cesar Chavez was born to Librado and Juana Chavez on March 31, 1927. During the Great Depression, the Chavez family joined the approximately 300,000 other migrant workers who moved from place to place picking whatever crop was in season for farm owners desperate for cheap labor. Often times these workers would huddle into the pickup trucks, which carried them from labor to labor, hoping to gain some refuge from the harsh elements. Unlike most migrant workers, Cesar Chavez was able to graduate from the eighth grade; however, he was only able to do so after attending more than thirty schools. After graduating, Chavez began working full-time in the fields and noticed the injustice wrought upon the workers by the labor contractors and farm owners. Chavez tried to encourage his fellow workers to speak out against their harsh treatment, but most refused to, fearing that they would lose their jobs. Chavez also tried to convince the labor contractors and farm owners to increase wages and improve conditions for the migrant workers, but often his was a solitary voice and thus easy to ignore.
In 1944 Chavez joined the U.S. Navy and when his tour ended in 1948 he returned to California and married Helen Fabela, who shared his views on the mistreatment of migrant workers. They launched a campaign to teach migrant workers to read and write, hoping to make them U.S. citizens. Cesar and Helen hoped that as U.S. citizens the farm workers would be more willing to fight for improved wages and working conditions.
Eventually, Chavez was recruited by the Community Service Organization (CSO) to help educate migrant workers about their rights and register them to vote. Chavez would work in the fields during the day and for the CSO at night. Inevitably, his work with the CSO consumed his time and he lost his job in the fields. Chavez went to work full time at the CSO and, in 1962, moved his family to Delano, California, gave up his job as National Director of the CSO, and dedicated himself to uniting the farm workers into an effective union. Because Chavez gave up his well paid job, Helen took to picking fruit in the fields to feed their children.
On Tuesday, March 31, 1998, the 71st anniversary of Cesar ChavezÕs birth, a handful of local leaders gathered at San Agustin Plaza to commemorate his birth and pay tribute to the founding President of the National Farm Workers Union. With cries of, ÒViva la Causa!Ó and the singing of ÒDe ColoresÓ they gathered to pay homage to the man and his, ÒSí se puede!Ó attitude.
The event, organized by Dr. Norma Cantú, featured a mix of those who occupied the frontlines of La Causa during the early years, those who continue the struggle, and those who are
preparing themselves for the fight. Among those speaking were Sandra Sanders, Director of the Tutoring Center at TAMIU, Dr. Michael Yoder, Professor of Geography at TAMIU, É(insert names here)É
The candlelight vigil captured the essence of Cesar Chavez the man and the battles he waged for thirty plus years. Much like someone who had never met Cesar Chavez, those in attendance might have expected swelling crowds, outpouring of emotions, and all of the pomp and circumstance of a coronation. What they received; however, was a heartfelt tribute to the man, a humble reflection on the past, and a levelheaded look at the future. Just as Cesar struggled to get his message through to the American people, those gathered at San Agustin Plaza struggled to be heard over the roar of a bus parked across the street at La Posada, the sound of tires screeching to a violent, or the wind, which threatened to put out the flames lit in honor of Cesar Chavez. Eventually the flames consumed those externalities and left only the words, the emotions, and the essence of Cesar Chavez.
The Student Systems Group participated in the 3rd Annual AITP (Association of Information Technology Professionals) National Collegiate Conference, "Surfing Into The 21st Century,", held at Evansville, IN from March 26 - 28. Over 60 universities participated in the conference that included keynote speakers from IBM, the Archer Institute and Ernst & Young.
The conference also included programming competitions in Visual Basic, WebMaster, Cobol and C/C++. There were 34 teams competing in C/C++ and 48 teams participating in Visual Basic. Tiffany Silva and Satish Kumar participated in the Visual Basic competition, while Carol Gomez and Ying Zhao participated in C/C++. Carol and Ying placed 2nd in the national event, outdoing Purdue University, and Texas A&M International University will get national recognition in the August issue of the Nanosecond, the monthly publication of the AITP. The winning team was prepared by Dr Jim Chen.
by Ismael H. Hinojosa
When I first took the position as Editor-in-Chief of The Bridge, I was as giddy as an eight-year-old whose parents had just bought him a new toy. As I walked into the Great Room and saw 25 enthusiastic faces all watching me, my own enthusiasm grew, and I couldnÕt wait to unwrap that toy and conquer the universe. I honestly believed that I could use this newspaper as an instrument of justice, exposing wrongs wrought upon us by a cruel and uncaring Board of Regents, and alerting the general populace to a few of the disturbing trends in our society. Also, being the altruist I am, I sought to use this newspaper to bring prominence and recognition to this university. I had such grand plans for this newspaper, and trying to not swallow too much at once set off in the October 1997 issue to place goals for myself as well as for the newspaper.
If my memory serves me correctly, I vowed to make The Bridge more eye-catching and dynamic. We accomplished this in that October issue, then reverted back to the page splitting format that marked the early days of this newspaper, and finally went back to the more dynamic approach last semester. While we have achieved some success in keeping that first vow, it is in the next two; however, that I proclaim myself a resounding failure.
Rather than failing in two distinct areas, I believe my failure in one area made success in the other virtually impossible. Again, if my memory serves me correctly, I quoted Arthur Miller as saying, ÒA good newspaper, I suppose, is a nation talking to itself.Ó Judging by your response, IÕm quite lucky that medieval psychiatric beliefs are no longer adhered to because talking to oneÕs self was considered grounds for institutionalization, which often led to the drilling of holes in oneÕs head to let loose the demons that reside within. How could I possibly expect you to be interested in lending your talents to the newspaper, which are essential to increasing the frequency of publication, when I could not so much as peak your interest in what I had to say or the goings on at TAMIU?
Plenty of reasons were offered up to explain the lack of interest in the newspaper, one of which involved the publication of an ÒoffensiveÓ cartoon that attacked the recruiting practices of a certain local high school and insulted our kinsfolk across the river. I was continually asked, ÒWhat are you going to tell people when they come to complain about the cartoon?Ó Time and again I said that: 1) I myself did not agree with the message the cartoon sent and in fact held stronger convictions than those who would attack me. 2) Other than my two sisters, and myself my entire family (parents, cousins, uncles, aunts, grandfathers, grandmothers, etc.) was born in Mexico and, except for a few outlying relatives, still reside there. 3) Personally, I find mounted animalÕs heads in restaurants to be completely tasteless, and, unless the food is magnificent, I refuse to ever eat at those places again. No one is forcing me to eat at that particular place, just like the cartoonist was not forcing his ideas upon people. 4) Finally, remind them of VoltaireÕs immortal words, ÒI disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.Ó
Another reason for my failure was that I would approach subjects which were not of interest to my readers. Keeping this criticism in mind I set out to create a well-written and supportable account of why we need a ÒDead WeekÓ here at TAMIU. Surely if my readers couldnÕt grasp the impact that de facto segregation would have on them, they should be able join with me in espousing the benefits of a ÒDead Week.Ó When that failed to garner the most minute support, I deduced that there must be some inherent flaw in my character that prevents me from ÒconnectingÓ with you the readers. For four issues of The Bridge I waged a successful, at least in my own mind, campaign of victimization. I believed that the reason the TAMIU student population failed to participate was that they had little knowledge of the events unfolding around them. After trying, issue after issue, to inform you, watching others more capable than myself fail to motivate you as well, and talking with the leaders of various other student organizations I found out that this was not so. I believe that you have sufficient knowledge about the issues presented to you, but you simply just donÕt give a damn. I still accept full responsibility for not achieving the goals I set forth for the newspaper. I will not; however, take absolute responsibility for the lack of interest shown in this newspaper or, for that matter, TAMIU as a whole.
If you were to peruse previous issues of The Bridge, you would find that apathy is not a new editorial topic. In fact, that emotion, or rather lack there of, has been prevalent in almost everything IÕve seen at this university. Quite frankly IÕve grown tired of this constant dreariness and couldnÕt care less, myself, whether you stop reading now or stopped reading when you hit that first word you didnÕt comprehend (for those of you interested an altruist is an unselfish person). Still, I feel the obligation to continue. If for no other reason than to be able to say, when the burden of this apathy rears its ugly head, ÒI told you so.Ó
I have a theory about apathyÕs pervasiveness and history in the United States. The history of the United States can be viewed as a series of drastic changes from one generation to the next, and it is through these changes that the apathy that we see so plainly today developed. For timeÕs sake, letÕs only go back to the post WW II era. The late 40Õs and 50Õs brought about great wealth for the nation and revolutionary changes in technology. In this environment people became prosperous and religiously followed the dictates of the national government. The 1960Õs and 70Õs brought to the fore the horrible plight of black people in the U.S. and led to a rebellion against the orderly/materialist society of the previous generation. Having experienced both extremes in ideological and activism continuums, the only way present generations could rebel against their parents was to not care at all. I can delve even further into history and provide much more empirical evidence, but, since many people have trouble getting through Dilbert without having to pause for air, it would all be for naught.
Fifteen to twenty years from now, when TAMIU fails to live up to the lofty expectations placed upon it and when this university becomes a fourth or fifth rate facility that serves only to process the Òhas-beensÓ and the Ònever-will-besÓ through a highly elliptical educational system we can trace the source of this failure right back to complete lack of devotion for anything and everything that our students so brazenly display at the present time. Apathy breeds complacency, complacency breeds stagnation, and stagnation breeds absolutely nothing. Do you see the problem here? If you canÕt then I invite you to pick my brain until you can. If you can and feel a burning desire to expose me for a pompous fool whose only redeemable quality is adequate rhetoric, then god bless your soul for you are the guiding light that holds the key to our salvation. If you can see the problem and simply feel no inclination either way then take what I have said plus the worst of what you know of me, put two and two together, and never forget that there are places much hotter than Laredo during the summer.
A new electronic employment service for educators has just made job searching easier, more efficient, more economical, and more geographically diverse. Teachers@Work (www.teachersatwork.com) uses the power of the Internet to allow teaching candidates to enter their resumes on-line, and permit schools to search those resumes for candidates who fulfill specific staffing needs.
While many job registries exist on the World Wide Web, Teachers@Work is unique in that it allows specific matching of candidates qualifications with the requirements of the school district. Schools seeking teachers can locate candidates who are qualified in specific teaching areas and have expertise in specific extra curricular activities or athletics. For example a school which needs a physics teacher who can coach volleyball and advise the debate team would search the database of candidates for those specific credentials and print out the matching resumes. Schools contact matching candidates further information
Additional information is available in the resume, giving the employer a broad picture of the talents of the prospective teachers. It saves both time and money for personnel directors while providing a more extensive profile of potential teaching candidates. The option to post job openings is also available.
There is no cost or obligation to teacher candidates to register their resumes. Teachers seeking jobs find that this free service offers nationwide exposure, is easy to use, and can be readily updated.. It also features an advanced security system ensuring complete confidentiality for resumes, and produces professional looking printed resumes.
After a six month free trial, the annual cost to schools and districts is very economical, ranging from $100 - $300 for unlimited use depending on the number of schools. This compares favorably with other teacher placement services which charge hundreds of dollars for each placement.
The web site contains links to many other sites of interest to educators such as state credential information, ÒAskEricÓ, and information on living in specific geographical areas. For further information, to submit your resume, or register your school, log on to the web site at www.teachersatwork.com.
by Gabriela Cordova
After elections, Arturo Sanchez managed to regain the role of President of the Student Government Association. Although this is ArturoÕs second term in office, this is his first elected term. Arturo became president for the first time during the 1996-1997 school year as a result of the then-presidentÕs resignation. In this, the president is only allowed two elected terms.
ArturoÕs response to the new Vice-President Alejandra Diaz is positive. ÒIÕm excited to have Alejandra back . . . she will serve and represent the university well,Ó says Arturo. He has worked well with her in the past and hopes to continue working together (along with the S.G.A. team) on future projects. One of these projects is working with the city councils to provide better services for the students.
Just recently, the Student Government Association has had several accomplishments: helping other organizations carry fund raisers, worked with the El Metro for transportation services, developed the South Texas Leadership Conference, etc . . . A current service that is being worked on for the students is the Golden Coral survey. So far the most important factor that the Student Government Association is trying to fulfill is Ò . . . setting a foundation,Ó says Arturo. The Student Government Association is still concerned with its fundamental interests such as providing services for the students and voicing the studentsÕ opinions.
Had the vice-president been someone else, Arturo and S.G.A. would still want to carry out these promises to the students. ÒI would have been concerned on the issues we would be focusing . . .Ó Arturo adds. Overall, Sanchez kept an open mind on who would be his new vice president and hoped to continue working for the sake of the students.
by Wally Perez
One of the most common complaints I get from people who know I work in the library is that there isnÕt anything to read. As a shelver, I am constantly involved with the new books that come in or old books that are returned. It is while shelving these books that I have come across plenty of books that I never even knew existed in the library. IÕve been able to find books that have helped me with my studies, books that I have simply checked out because they look interesting, or books to thumb through while I take a break from work or school. I can say I have my favorites scattered across all areas of the library that I take out on occasion to re-read or to recommend to a friend. I also spend some time flipping through random art books in the art section of the library. We may have a small art section but it still provides one with hours upon hours of enjoyment.
What I usually tell people who say how boring our library is is that they just havenÕt bothered to look. There are many jewels and treasures waiting to found in the library if you only take some time off to search for them. DonÕt know where to start? Find a specific area or field you wish to start with. The library is sectioned off into sections according to topics. Religion and Mythology are in the B-Section, History is in the B-section, Art is in the N-section, Music in the M, Spanish language books are in the PQÕs, Literature in the PRÕs and PSÕs, Sciences in the QÕs, and so on. Just spend some time in any of these sections and you are bound to find something worth reading. Sure, we are no Library of Congress, but the library receives about 350 books every other week, and I ask you to take as much advantage of that as possible.
Below are 10 books that I have recently found, are new, or are old favorites of mine.
The Way Things Work: From Levers to Lasers, Cars and Computers- A Visual Guide to the World of Machines by David Macaulay (REF T 47 .M18 1988) It may seem a bit childish at first but this visual guide really does an excellent job at explaining how those things we usually take for granted work. From simple locks and keys to microprocessors, MacaulayÕs book explains everything in great detail making it very easy for anyone of any age to understand.
When Drag is not a Car Race: An Irreverent Dictionary of Over 400 Gay & Lesbian Words & Phrases by Jeff Fessler and Karen Rauch (REF HQ 75.17 .F47 1997) A really fun dictionary of gay and lesbian slang usage. Impress your gay friends by speaking the lingo.
The Cambridge Atlas of Astronomy (REF QB 65 .G68 13 1994) Packed with enough full color photographs to satisfy even the most enthusiastic of astronomers. View spectacular pictures of galaxies and nebulae taken through the Hubble telescope, or of the planets and their moons along with a full array of information to accompany those pictures.
Chemisorption and Reactivity on Supported Clusters and Thin Films: Towards an Understanding of Microscopic Processes in Catalysis (QD 505 .C464 1997) Uh. . . well if you enjoyed Modern Catalytic Methods for Organic Synthesis with Diazo Compounds: From Cyclopropanes to Ylides (QD 262 .D68 1998) then I am sure this is the book for you.
Dave BarryÕs Book of Bad Songs Dave Barry (ML 65 .B3 1997) a very funny book spotlighting all those songs we love to hate. IÕm sure youÕll agree with some of Dave BarryÕs songs chosen as the worst of all time. I am also sure youÕll disagree with some of his choices (Barry Manilow and Neil Diamond fans unite!). BarryÕs book also contains separate chapters on really bad love songs, weenie music, and the unforgettable teen death songs of the 5Os and 60s. Plus a collection of songs that women love to hate.
Kitsch: The World of Bad Taste by Gilo Dorfies (NX 210 .D6) An excellent book dedicated to artistic rubbish. Where else can you find pictures of such tacky objects as religious sea shell ornaments, an Eiffel Tower pepper mill, a nice quaint coffee mug with a Nazi swastika on it, and the ever popular, all-purpose snow globes? The only thing missing in this book are those stuffed frog mariachi bands you can buy in Nuevo Laredo. Also included are several essays discussing the relevance of different kinds of kitsch.
When God Was A Woman by Merlin Stone (BL 458.S76 1976) A book dedicated to the rise and fall of the female goddesses of the world. Mythology and Biblical stories are explored in StoneÕs quest to catalogue the suppression of womenÕs rights through the ages.
Zapata Rose in 1992 & Other Tales by Gary D. Keller (PS 3561 .B3854 Z3 1992) Keller, a professor from Arizona State University, displays his full creative writing skills in seven tales that are funny, genuine, and great to read. Stories such as ÒPapi Invented the Automatic Jumping Bean,Ó ÒThe Moj ado Who Offered Up His Tapeworms to the Public Weal,Ó and ÒZapata Rose in 1992Ó are sure to become some of your favorite stories to tell your friends about.
The Dilbert Principle and The Dilbert Future by Scott Adams (PN 6162 .A345 1997) Should be required reading for all Business and CIS Grads and Undergrads. If you havenÕt read any Dilbert comic strips then you are really missing out on something quite funny and truthful.
by Jeannette De La Paz and Wally Perez
Pagers
You know the sound, whether it be the actual beeping or the vibrating feature. YouÕre in class, church, theater, any place with people, and then you hear this irritating beeping sound reminiscent of a bomb ready to go off.
The cellular phone
Another monotonous sound. Did Alexander G. Bell ever think the phone would actually become so convenient yet annoying at the same time? WeÕve all seen them everywhere, including super markets: ÒEh, IÕm on the cellular phone, thereÕs Doritos and Flaming Hot Cheetos, which do you want? Okay.Ó He hangs up then quickly calls back, ÒEh, thereÕs sour cream, tooÓ
Ever had the feeling youÕre being watched? You turn around and somebody is reading over your shoulder. The person pretends that he/she is not reading your e-mail.
Or you open up your e-mail to find six e-mails from a club that you donÕt belong to or never knew existed, and all those e-mails say the exact same thing. Or the classic ÒOh, I forgot to add that we will...Ó line that they all e-mail again.
Or the friend who e-mails you to ask if you did your homework or if you want to go see a movie later on during the day, instead of actually asking you when they see you since you have class with them, hang out with them, or practically live with them.
Or some weird loser who mass e-mails to see if youÕd like to buy his soul or want to go on a date.
And donÕt even get me started on chain mail!
Restrooms
No feminine vending machines (tampons/pads) in womenÕs restrooms. So whatÕs a woman supposed to do when the NurseÕs office is closed?
And guys, remember that it is perfectly okay to flush after relieving yourself
Car Horns
Any horn from police cars to import cars, which seem to be the worst. Of course it may come in handy, but who doesnÕt curse the person who honks? Particularly the person honking in back of you at the international bridge.
Pen
That unpleasant clicking clatter that the nervous, desperate person is making. Makes one want to scream.
Also, if you borrow a pen, please donÕt return it a day after all chewed up or not return it at all.
Slurping
Still thirsty? Why not buy another drink instead of trying to get to the last drop.
People who ahhh after taking a sip.
Drinks
No free refills at the local restaurant. Skyrocket prices invading our wallets.
Barking
Not your classmate but your neighborÕs dog. Fido is barking for no apparent reason at unreasonable times of the night. Trying to study for an exam? Trying to catch up on your sleep? Fido knows exactly how you feel and when the worst time to annoy you would be. Fido is your enemy.
Car Alarms
Nobody actually does anything about it when the alarm goes off except hope they donÕt have to hear the noise for long. Makes one wonder when to car will eventually get stolen. And now we have many options to choose from: ÒStep away from this vehicle, itÕs guarded by viper.Ó Does it come in different languages? And how about those car alarms that change in noise and tone, or that hideous honking car alarm.
Elevator
People taking the elevator to go up or down one flight of stairs.
People who in a last ditch desperate attempt to get on the elevator, jump in between the closing doors and nearly get crushed to death or get their limbs cut off.
Tailgating
The most common complaint car drivers face. ItÕs unsafe and can cause a serious accident.
Sniffles
Most common around the winter time. The person is too shy to blow his/her nose and would rather.. well, you know, slurp them then blow into a tissue.
No Ketchup
The utmost evil that stems from drive thru fast food places, especially Whataburger and Jack-in-the-Box. Their excuse is that they clearly have a tiny little sign that reads, ÒCondiments upon request only.Ó
People with Pet Peeves
ItÕs like grow up! So what if people have tiny little glitches in their systems that makes them do these really annoying things sometimes? Have you taken a look at what annoying things you do that drive other people crazy?
Last year you might have heard about Global Opportunities and decided that it was something you were going to look into. Whether you attended or not, you at least knew it was TAMIUÕs annual job fair. But job fair is not the best term for it. It can more appropriately be called a Ònetworking fairÓ or an Òopportunity fair.Ó Regardless of the term, Global Opportunities Ô98 was two fairs combined into one. The Job Fair has come and gone but the TEACHER FAIR is right around the corner! If you are an education or counseling major, or student with just an INTEREST in the education field, mark APRIL 23, from 2:00pm to 6:00PM in your calendars. Teacher Fair will be held in the Kinesiology/Convocation Building (the gym).
Over 50 school districts from all across the country have been invited to staff a table and distribute information about their opportunities, personal career track, programs, benefits, and other information of interest to students, freshman to alumni. The recruiters look forward to interacting with as many students and community members as possible - even if they are undecided or are just beginning at TAMIU. All are looking for enthusiastic and curious students and a few have requested the chance to interview students on the spot.
Students at TAMIU, though, are notorious for letting opportunities, like this, pass them by. There are a number of things you can do to prepare for this once a year shot at checking out what awaits you in the near future. Consider that this will be the first impression you make on a potential employer. Dress as if you were going to an interview (you just might be!). Approach representatives with enthusiasm and warmth. Greet with a firm handshake and introduce yourself. And, of course, ask plenty of questions. Here are some other things to keep in mind:
1.Make sure that you are prepared with plenty of error-free, neat resumes that have been critiqued by at least one other person (CP&P staff can review your resume). Recruiters will be expecting you to be prepared.
2.Brush up on interviewing skills to maximize the information exchanged.
3. Ask the representative for her or his business card and information packet or application - you never know when it will come in handy.
4. Follow up with a letter or other information you have both agreed to exchange.
You might find just information you did not expect and strengthened your knowledge of the Education field. Career Planning and Placement is also willing to help you connect with school districts in other ways.
For students having missed the Global Opportunities Ô98 job fair & not interested in education, you can still find upcoming job fair dates at other universities or join us on a trip to the National Multicultural Job Expo in San Marcos on April 16, 1998. You can sign-up to travel with a van of 15 TAMIU students for a dayÕs visit (7:00am to 7:00pm), stop in for a travel form and to drop off a $10 deposit. More information about Teacher Fair Ô98 or the San Marcos and other job fairs is available at Killam West Building Room 157, by calling 326-2260, or e-mailing vgarcia@tamiu.edu.
March was WomenÕs History Month, thirty-one days during which people around the world honored and celebrated the contributions and achievements of women. The international celebration March 8, is International WomenÕs Day. In the United States, WomenÕs History Month received Congressional approval in 1987 when the National WomenÕs History Project petitioned Congress to expand the national celebration to the entire month of March. Since then, the National WomenÕs History Month Resolution has been approved with bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.
The Congressional Resolution designating March as WomenÕs History Month declares the valuable role of women in forging a national history. The Resolution asserts:
Whereas American women of every race, class, and ethnic background have made historic contributions to the growth and strength of our Nation in countless recorded and unrecorded ways; Whereas American women have played and continue to play a critical economic, cultural, and social role in every sphere of the life of the Nation by constituting a significant portion of the labor force working inside and outside of the home;
Whereas American women have played a unique role throughout the history of the Nation by providing the majority of the volunteer labor force of the Nation;
Whereas American women were particularly important in the establishment of early charitable, philanthropic, and cultural institutions in our Nation;
Whereas American women of every race, class, and ethnic background served as early leaders in the forefront of every major progressive social change movement;
Whereas American women have been leaders, not only in securing their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity, but also in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the industrial labor movement, the civil rights movement, and other movements, especially the peace movement, which create a more fair and just society for all; and
Whereas despite these contributions, the role of American women is history has been consistently overlooked and undervalued, in the literature, teaching and study of American History;
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, that March is designated as ÒWomenÕs History Month.Ó The President is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation for each of these months, calling upon the people of the United States to observe those months with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities.
This March, the TAMIU WomenÕs Studies Minor Program sponsored a variety of events in order to celebrate women internationally, nationally, and locally. Among the events scheduled was a celebration of the 3rd Anniversary of WomenÕs Studies at TAMIU, the annual Brindis a la mujer, and the 1998 Primavera Conference, sponsored by the WomenÕs Studies Program and Las Mujeres.
In addition, the WomenÕs Studies Minor Program sponsored a variety of other events during the month, including presentations at Bookmark Books, films, and lectures. For more information, check out the WomenÕs Studies Minor website off the Arts and Humanities page or contact Dr. Jeri Kraver, Dr. Carol Waters, or Dr. Norma Cantu.
by Agustin Gamez Jr.
Well, the elections came and ended with an amount of uncertainty on who was going to win the most important seat: the vice-presidency seat. The contestants vying for this seat were Alejandra Diaz, the current S.G.A. vice-president and Gilberto Sanchez, a very well known graduate student who claims there is a ÒconspiracyÓ against him from holding an elected office position. That yet has to be confirmed but, hey who are we kidding, this is Laredo politics; Laredo is synonymous with dirty politics but as I mentioned before that has yet to be confirmed about a Òconspiracy.Ó In any event this elections were by far the most settled and different from the previous ones which were riddled with scandals and who done it type stuff. As I and my other colleagues from the Bridge and S.G.A (IÕm a Senator for the Arts and Humanities) waited in the Killam Hall for the results which took almost three hours (we almost made camp!), I noted that Gilberto was in a good demeanor and sometimes nervous. As the results were announced Gilberto made an expression that was all too familiar: he lost. Although Gilberto looked disappointed, he said that he respects the results, wished Alejandra the best, and asked for pollster on the next election. He also concluded that this political run would be his last. But what really surprised him was the amount of feedback he received from the student body and then finding out that he lost. But as the saying goes you win some and lose some and this election ends all the speculation on who the students want for vice-president. The students have spoken.
by Omar Gonzalez
In this busy world we seldom have an opportunity to communicate with our peers. Obstacles such as work, and school prohibit us from associating with those we care about. Even in the comfort of our home there exists a barrier that is subtle and devours hours and hours of our time. It exists in almost every home now. Meet the home-wrecker of today, your television set.
A survey of 100 persons of different households showed an average of two television sets per household. An average of 40 hours per week is spent viewing television. Fifty six percent admit to forcing themselves to stay up past midnight to watch late night shows. Sixty three percent admit that they arrive late for work due to their lack of sleep due to late night television. Seventy four percent work their meals or activities around their favorite shows. Ninety two percent have missed attending a special function because of their favorite show. Eighty eight percent qualify watching television as one of their favorite pastime. Fifty six percent attribute the excessive watching of television as a common source of family conflicts. Alarming figures are they not?
Television like any other drug is addictive and keeps a person coming back for more. From soap operas and miniseries to sitcoms and game shows they are quick fixes that will hold you over until the next dose; Saturday night television. Video stores are booming and televisions are constantly being improved. Where will it all end? It is really up to you.
How do I know if I am addicted? If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you might be a television junkie.
1. Do your family members have to wear a carton box that looks like a television over their heads to get your attention?
2. Do you start suffering withdrawal symptoms every time there is a blackout and your battery operated watchman is nowhere to be found?
3. Do you consider your television set as an added member of the family?
4. Did you wish that your wedding ceremony were held earlier and the guests be gone by seven so you will not miss another episode of the X-Files?
5. Do you often find yourself asking your television set for advice on important family matters?
6. Are your answers to your childÕs questions about life mere quotes of television shows you watch?
7. Does your house look like the showroom the shopping network
8. Do you dress up for the showing of the Academy Awards?
9. Do your relatives not recognize you without a remote control in your hand?
10. Are you the instigator of a petition to make March our National Television WatcherÕs Month?
Like every good thing, television watching has a limit. It is when we use this apparatus as a baby sitter or get so wrapped up in that we neglect our responsibilities the television then can wreck our life.
by Jose Fidel Hernandez Jr.
Why is the television remote control so important to me as well as for all males? Why canÕt we ever let it go? Men are always criticized as to why the remote control is always at their side. The answer I give my wife is that I do it for her sake and not for my own.
One reason as to why the remote control has to be by my side is because if I didnÕt have it I would have to eat in the living room instead of the dining room. This is where my rationale comes in: the remote control allows me to watch the channels I want and keeps me from being in the living room and dirtying the carpet. Hence, I save my wife the trouble of having to vacuum crumbs off the carpet and furniture or cleaning up nasty spills.
Another reason why the remote is so important to the male population is that we can watch sport programs. In the United States, where masculinity is judged by the number of hours spent watching sports and how many plays can be recounted in detail, it is important for a man to expose himself to the various games that are played throughout the season.
Finally, and most importantly, the remote control allows men to feel, and fulfill, their overwhelming need for control. The remote control symbolizes the maintaining of some sense of control for men. Having the power to decide what will be watched (and how long it will be watched) maintains the male ego.
Thus, the remote control is and always will be a manÕs best friend.
by Mel Garza
Nestled in the heart of East Laredo, CharlieÕs Corona is a wonderful blend of the affordable and the delectable. Quite simply stated, CharlieÕs Corona is everything a restaurant should be. Not only is the food fabulous, but it also combines a quaint rustic environment with a friendly atmosphere and staff.
As you first walk in, CharlieÕs Corona may not look like much, but then again most of the really good restaurants donÕt. Plus, they have the common decency to omit the tasteless mounted animalÕs head that most restaurateurs consider vital. The ambiance is laid back and the glazed/painted over wood that adorns the place are comforting to the eye. Instead of the aforementioned heads, CharlieÕs Corona features a pleasing assortment of decorations; from the old poster announcing the arrival of Juan Belmonte, the much heralded Matador, to Albert Einstein saying, ÒPeace can not be achieved through force...Ó All these elements combine to form a relaxed and pleasant eating atmosphere.
The service at CharlieÕs Corona matches the surroundings in many ways: very pleasant and very friendly. We were promptly seated, brought our drinks and menus, and our food was out in a mere fraction of the time it takes normal restaurants. Overall the service was prompt, friendly, and un-intrusive.
Even if CharlieÕs Corona was the biggest dump in Laredo, and even if the service made you feel like they were doing you a favor by allowing you in their presence, the food at CharlieÕs Corona alone would make this place a ÒMust Eat!Ó
Since we had just missed the lunch buffet I went ahead and ordered the Chicken Fried Steak plate, the true test of any good Texas restaurant. First they brought out my salad, which was filled with nothing but fresh vegetables and a savory house dressing. Then they brought on the main course. Now IÕve had some really good Chicken Fried Steak, and in all honesty I wasnÕt expecting all that much, but boy were my taste buds given a treat that afternoon. This Chick Fried Steak was not just good, it was Paraiso (restaurant in Zapata) and DirtyÕs (in Houston) good. It was simply damn good. After I had gorged myself on the steak, all that stood between me and completing the challenge set before me by the chef was this big baked potato. Being the competitor I am, I loaded up that potato with as many heart stopping ingredients as I could and literally dug right in. After going through half the baked potato I proclaimed the chef the better man, savored the last bite, and sat back, letting digestion run its course.
All in all, CharlieÕs Corona is the very best non-Oriental restaurant in Laredo. The atmosphere and service comfort the eye, the food and drinks comfort the taste buds, and the prices comfort both mind and wallet.
by Barbara Sullivan
Entering CrosbyÕs Restaurant in Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, Mexico is like walking back into a place in time. When you walk in the door you can almost see people from another era and how they must have dined back in the days when CrosbyÕs first opened.
Just across the border from Del Rio, Texas, CrosbyÕs Restaurant was first opened by Mrs. ÒMaÓ Crosby in the 1930s, according to our waiter; however, the decor gives you the impression that it was built during the Mexican Revolution. Mrs. CrosbyÕs sons resumed ownership of the restaurant after Mrs. Crosby passed away. During the 1980s the Crosby family sold the restaurant to a company from Mexico City who changed the name to ÒCarlos and Charlies.Ó A few years later, the current owners purchased CrosbyÕs. They also purchased the name ÒCrosbyÕsÓ and have continued to operate the restaurant much as it was when Mrs. Crosby owned it.
Following the theme of the Mexican Revolution, there are photographs at CrosbyÕs Restaurant of people of that era, including Pancho Villa. Ciudad Acuña was a stopping point for Pancho Villa and was a stronghold for the revolutionary movement. It was well known that federal troops were not readily seen in the area, except for those soldiers who defected and joined Pancho Villa.
The decor is very light and cheerful. The color scheme is vibrant green and bright white. From the floor up, customers get a sense of nostalgia from a time before most of their customers were even born. The floor has alternating green and white cement tile which gives the restaurant a cool atmosphere. The green and white color gives the room a cool appearance and the actual tile keeps the room cool. The starched white tablecloths are topped with placemats that resemble miniature serapes and green earthenware that matches the green trim of the white walls.
The restaurant has a floor plan which resembles that of a basilica, with a nave in the middle and an aisle along each side. This style of architecture possibly is reflective of the influence of the Catholic Church in Mexico. The aisles are separated from the nave by arches. Along each wall of the aisle are wonderful black and white photographs of people, both famous and ordinary, during the Mexican Revolution. The doors are made of beautifully polished mahogany wood with elegant etched glass in each door panel. There are two large skylights that let in natural light during the daylight hours and natural greenery hangs from beams just below the skylights which further enhances the green and white color scheme. Even the waiters wear sharp green and white uniforms. The atmosphere could best be described as comfortable elegance.
To add to the atmosphere, the music at CrosbyÕs is very romantic. It is mostly comprised of Mexican trio music. Even though trio music dates from about the 1950s rather than earlier eras such as the decor, it is really nice music with songs like ÒEl Reloj,Ó and ÒSabor a Mi.Ó
A dining experience at CrosbyÕs is one that I truly recommend. From the delicious food, to the romantic music, to the atmosphere that takes you back in time, it is worth the three hour drive from Laredo to dine at CrosbyÕs Restaurant in Ciudad Acuña, Mexico.
By Mel Garza
Jammed between SamesÕ Used Car Factory and Coastal gas station on Calton Road, is the Tio Hut restaurant. At first glance it was difficult to determine the exact purpose of this building. The only thing that really held my attention about the entire block it occupies was the abundance of late model luxury cars in the parking lot. Having made up my mind to investigate the matter further, I pulled into the west bound lane, made a U-turn, and pulled my beat-up 1982 Toyota Corolla in beside an immaculate S-series Mercedes and a Jaguar sedan.
I stepped through the door and was transported into an environment that can be described as rustic, at best. In keeping with the archetypal South Texas ÔbigÕ game hunter, several picture of deer and actual mounted heads were strewn across the walls (possibly to cover up sections where the wallpaper has peeled off like it had underneath my table). After that initial glance around the room, I led myself towards a tableclothless table and sat in my uncomfortable chair. From my seat I had an ample view of the dying palm trees on the East Side of the building. The few branches that were not withered away and sustained solely by the rusting metal fence were slumping abashedly away from Calton Road.
I did not have to wait very long to be attended. A courteous waitress was with me almost as soon as I took my seat, which is commendable since the restaurant was quite busy. She took my drink order and returned a few minutes later with my ice tea. I used the time in between to decide what exactly I wanted to eat. Keeping in mind that was going to write up a review for this restaurant, I decided to give them a chance to shine and ordered the House Specialty (Tampiquena plate) and the botanera platter. The meal started off well enough, as their Pico de gallo was simply delicious, not to spicy and not too bland, with just the right amounts of tomato, onions, and lemon. Little did I know that the final chip dipped in Pico would be the last piquant morsel I would have that entire afternoon.
The botanera platter was much more indicative of the meal I received, with its microwaved cheese fries and water-laden guacamole. Every single item on my plate was seriously deficient in flavor except the refried beans, which are pretty hard to screw up. With a vacant expression and vagrant taste buds, I managed to finish up the cheese fries and was more than a bit excited to have the waitress bring me the main course. Bobbing up and down in a pool of grease, like a dead man floating in the river, were the enchiladas, which are such in name only. Three to four bites were all I could tolerate. I quickly shoved the vat of grease aside and started into the rest of the meal. Buried under a mountain of lettuce were about a dozen strips of fajita and solitary flauta. Out of sheer parsimony was I able to finish the non-grease-marinated portion of the plate. The blandness of the food, that lack of any and all flavor, produced an intolerable taste in my mouth.
Tasteless is the one word most adequately describes my dining experience as the Tio Hut restaurant. Everything from the mounted deer heads on the wall to the flautas on your plate is lacking in flavor and inspiration.
by Wally Perez
The Laredo Institute for Theatrical Education (L.I.T.E.) recently presented the contemporary adult comedy House of Wonders by Kate Asperengen under the direction of Tom Moore. The premise of the play revolves around Holly and her attempts to write a book detailing the adventurous life of her Great Aunt, Myrta Jane Wonders, who has been dead for a good 50 years and used to run a brothel up in Alaska. Suffering from severe writerÕs block, Holly and her friends decide to contact the spirit of her dead aunt in the hopes of being able to talk with her, a plan that ends up working with hilarious results. Myrta Jane visits Holly in her apartment and in the process brings along her dead husband Eugene, two dead prostitutes, and a crooked necked bug man.
There were laughs a plenty from the play and its talented cast which included Amanda Bean as Holly Edwards, the writer in search of a story; Leslie Ebe as Myrta Jane Wonders, the dead Grand Madame of the House of Wonders; Lucinda Dominguez as Rachel Hughes, HollyÕs best friend; Danny Villareal as Chris Ferguson, tabloid reporter and friend; Charlie Arce as Eugene Fugent, dead husband of Myrta Jane with a criminal record; Christine Cedillo as Cree LaFavour, the sexy vixen who isnÕt all there; Sandy Jacaman as Garthelene Calvert, down to earth prostitute (Jacaman doubled as assistant director), Duane Burdorf as Juneau Jim Littlefield, supposed sheriff from Alaska; and Jeri Kraver as Florence Pasutti, HollyÕs agent.
L.I.T.E. Productions was founded with the purpose of providing a creative outlet for people interested in theater and promoting education in the performing arts. Anyone interested in theater or learning more about it is welcomed and encouraged to contact L.I.T.E. Productions. For more information call Sandy Jacaman at 723-3997.
by Nora E. Rangel
ÒExcuses, excuses, now what excuse should I give my professor today? I really donÕt feel like going to class. There is nothing due, and IÕll get the notes of the lecture from a friend. LetÕs see, how about I had car problems, or I wasnÕt feeling well, or maybe a relative died.Ó
Do these excuses sound familiar? Believe it or not, these excuses are the most commonly heard, and although they do not sound true, they are used. There may be a day when you are ready to depart to the university and a problem arises. Either the car wonÕt start or you have a flat tire. Now what? YouÕre at home, alone, and begin calling friends to check if they left or are able to give you a ride. No one seems to answer. They already left. The time is approaching for class to begin, your desperate search for help fails, and the worry begins. There are five minutes left, so the best thing to do is to call the professor. You begin to dial hoping to leave a message in the voice mail. WouldnÕt you know? Your professor answers, ÒDr. So SoÕs office, may I help you?Ó and you reply, ÒDr. So So, this is......, I wonÕt be able to attend class today. IÕm having car problems.Ó He/She replies, ÒCanÕt you have someone bring you?Ó or ÒDo you live far from the university?Ó As much as you are telling the truth, there always seems to surface a question of doubt, whether an attempt was even made. The feeling after the conversation makes one feel like a liar. But really, it isnÕt a lie, you are having car problems and you keep insisting.
Now how about the excuse, Òl wasnÕt feeling well.Ó It is possible to get sick from one day to the next, but when there is fever or pain involved, it is impossible to be listening to the lecture or even participate in class discussions. The next class meeting, you advise your professor the reason for being absent on the previous class meeting. He/She gives you the look of doubt and quickly replies, ÒOkay.Ó There are no concerns or question. You begin to wonder whether they believe you or not.
Another commonly heard excuse, a relative died. This time it truly happens. To pay your respects all family members expect to see you at the rosary. If the relative happened to be from out of town, youÕll be gone for two to three days. If itÕs local, you must attend the rosary which just so happens its on the same day you have class. So you call your professor and explain the situation. Although the professor sympathizes with you, he/she asks for your relatives name and where the rosary will be held. These type of questions make one feel as though someone will show up at the rosary and make sure you are there. Again doubt????
Excuses, excuses, if they are the truth, then why do you feel guilty whether your professors believe you or not? Could it be the guilt of a similar excuse you once gave and it was untruthful, and now that it really happens the guilt has come to haunt you?
So next time you donÕt feel like attending class, donÕt call and lie by making up excuses. There are students who really go through these disaster and they are the oneÕs judged by professors whether they are excused or unexcused from class.
A rose in a bible that had been pressed for years
contained the story of happiness and tears
of a young maiden whose heart she had left
in an old country where her heart was kept.
The petals of the rose held a story of love
and a faith that was on the wings of a dove.
On that bible she promised to remain,
the person he loved, the one and the same.
The rose in the bible was a reminder of his heart,
that was kept carefully so their love would never fall apart.
As the years went by, both lives went on,
And the roseÕs color was almost completely gone.
The strong bright red that was a symbol of their love,
was now a white like the wings of a dove.
Their love had faded, but the memory remained.
The love for each other, was one and the same.
Carina Irene Aguirre
I donÕt know if itÕs love
or if itÕs infatuation
You see itÕs all because of this girl
that IÕm in this weird situation
I really know I like her
of course that I know anyone could see
But the thing is IÕd really, really like to know
If she feels the same way for me.
You see, IÕm almost sure she likes another
and sometimes she could make it quite clear
But moving too fast and scaring her away
Is really the only thing I fear
I know thereÕs a whole other ocean out there
full of all these fish and wondrous creatures
But my hungry eyes can only focus
on only her beauty and wonderful features
So I know IÕm not a heartthrob or stud
I canÕt even be compared to some of those guys\
But I swear the purpose of my stressful mission
Is to be the only one in her eyes.
by Mario Guerra