The Prospector, April 23, 2020

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This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Special Collections Department at ScholarWorks@UTEP. It has been accepted for inclusion in The Prospector by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks@UTEP. For more information, please contact [email protected]. News Entertainment Sports Students weigh in on new grading scale, page 3 Drag queens in the era of COVID-19, page 5 Miners hoping for NFL call, page 7

VOL. 105, NO. 24 APRIL 21, 2020

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO WWW.THEPROSPECTORDAILY.COM

UTEP conducts COVID-19 vaccine research

Isaiah Ramirez The Prospector Research is underway at the University of Texas at El Paso to combat and fi nd a vaccine for COVID-19. Th e UTEP School of Pharmacy is currently using computational methods to learn more about the COVID-19, or coronavirus. Th e research is directed by Suman Sirimulla, an assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences, who is leading a group of researchers from UTEP and the University of New Mexico. Th e focal point of the research is to evolve the molecular structure of a drug that combats the coronavirus. Th is is very crucial considering the novel coronavirus leads to the very deadly respiratory disease COVID-19. (hyperlink https://www. cnn.com/2020/03/31/health/what-is-coronavirus- covid-19-wellness/index.html). A specifi c method is using advanced computers to piece together small molecules in order to create inhibitors of viral proteins. Th e inhibitors themselves will bind to the virus’ S-protein. Th is S-protein, also known as the spike protein, will then be attached to the inhibitor, blocking the spike protein from attaching to and infecting the healthy cells in the body. Sirimulla is also developing inhibitors of the novel coronavirus’ main protease, which is considered necessary due to the proteases' critical role in pro- cessing the polyproteins that are translated from the viral RNA. “Th e coronavirus targets the respiratory ACE2 and TMPRSS2 enzymes and uses the spike protein to attach itself to them,” said Sirimulla in a press release. “Once the virus gets into the cell it begins to replicate and what we are trying to do is target the see VACCINE on page 2

GRAPHIC BY TEDDY BAYLON EDITOR IN CHIEF VALERIA OLIVARES, 747-7446 2 o p i n i o n APRIL 21, 2020 Managing mental illness while in quarantine How social distancing and isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic has affected my mental health

Margaret Cataldi down, I knew what a disaster this situation To be fair, I realize that everyone in the world available. If you already see a psychiatrist or The Prospector would be for my mental health, especially as is probably experiencing these same emotions other mental health carehealthcare professional, someone who suffers from ADHD and depres- right now, whether they struggle with a pre- notify them about your situation and sched- Four weeks ago, before sion. I knew that isolation would only worsen existing mental illness or not. That being said, ule some remote sessions if possible. If you everything got canceled, my condition, and that is precisely where I find if anyone can relate to my situation, no matter are a UTEP student, you can check out some before we were all ordered myself now. the circumstances, please understand that you of the pandemic-related resources provided by to stay inside and before Isolation has never been a pleasant experience are not alone. Although it may seem challenging the university’s Counseling and Psychological life seemingly came to a for me. I typically rely on structure, routine and to visualize an end to the chaos and a return to Services (CAPS). In addition to one-on-one sudden halt, I welcomed regular face-to-face interaction with my friends normalcy, we have to remember that these con- counseling sessions via phone call, CAPS has and even hoped for the and peers to maintain positivity and stability. ditions are only temporary. provided these mental health tips for managing possibility of a country- But being stuck inside with nowhere to go has In the meantime, reach out to your friends coronavirus concerns and a coronavirus anxiety wide lockdown. I saw amplified my symptoms of depression and has and ask if they are doing OK. Talk to one anoth- workbook to help you build coping skills and it as an opportunity to brought all my negative and oppressive thoughts er and share your experiences. Don’t be afraid to create a personal plan of action. destress and finally get around to all the tasks to the forefront of my mind. have a conversation about mental health. You’d Another helpful resource that I’ve found is an piling up on my to-do list in the comfort of The whole situation has impaired my ability to be surprised to find that the more we open up article from Psycom.net, a website and project my own home. While I’m no extrovert by any function as I normally would over the last four and relate to one another, the easier it becomes founded by the late psychiatrist and clinical psy- stretch of the imagination, too much social in- weeks. With each passing day, I feel more and to cope as a collective. Acknowledge the ca- chopharmacologist Ivan K. Goldberg that, that teraction can often leave me feeling burnt out, more disconnected from myself and the world lamities, but don’t dwell on them. To those who explains how coronavirus affects the most com- so I find comfort and relief in staying at home around me. I struggle to complete assignments, do suffer from mental illness, I cannot stress mon mental illnesses from OCD to schizophre- to recharge for periods at a time. Still, I’m aware I fall asleep and wake up at odd and irregular enough the importance of taking your medica- nia and more. It also provides coping tips and now more than ever that too much of one thing hours of the day, even something as basic as re- tion regularly as needed. resources for each. is hardly ever good. membering to eat has become a challenge for Still, if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed Margaret Cataldi may be reached at prospector@ Despite my excitement over the announce- me. and unable to cope, there are multiple resources utep.edu ment of UTEP’s shift to online classes, deep

Acollaboration between UTEP and the city of To speed up the design process, Sirimulla is forward to his development of therapies to com- VACCINE from cover El Paso to conduct research to develop a cure screening large qualities of molecules, which are bat the novel coronavirus infection.” virus’ RNA-dependent RNA polymerases en- for COVID-19 is unique in that it involves ties over a billion compounds available to synthesize To help develop the vaccine and evaluate him- zymes that are involved in replicating the virus.” to the university. through online chemical libraries. self and his work, Sirimulla is enlisting the help Urgency to develop a vaccine to combat CO- “Most of the employees at the city are alumni, Virologists at UTEP and other universities of the public. Volunteers who join BOINC@ VID-19 is of high importance, which is why Sir- some that came out of our clinical laboratory can evaluate Sirimulla’s work through proce- TACC will be able to run Sirimulla’s applica- imulla, along with other researchers, feel they Sciences program,” UTEP President Heather dures in their respective labs. tion on their computers and help them look can have a vaccine or antiviral drug ready in 15 Wilson said. “There was an agreement to col- Sirimulla earned his P.h.D in medicinal chem- through billions of molecules available in on- months to two years. laborate and that’s what we did, and it's called an istry from UTEP in 2010 and became an assis- line libraries. (hyperlink to website mentioned Vaccines are created to help develop immu- interim local agreement.” tant professor of pharmaceutical sciences in July above-https://boinc.tacc.utexas.edu/create_ac- nity by imitating an infection, according to the UTEP has also partnered with local health 2016, according to LinkedIn. count_form.php_) Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (hy- care professionals to test their personal protec- “UTEP faculty members advance discovery As of April 13, there are 300 COVID-19 cases perlink cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/conversations/ tive equipment (PPE) to ensure they are prop- of public value,” Wilson said. “We have high ex- in the city of El Paso with two reported deaths. downloads/vacsafe-understand-color-office. erly protected while working among patients pectations for Dr. Sirimulla’s research and look Isaiah Ramirez may be reached at prospector@ pdf). infected with COVID-19. utep.edu

SPEAK YOUR MIND STAFF VOL. 105, NO. 24 Submit a letter to the editor! Letters will be edited for clarity and brevity. Letters over 250 words are Editor in Chief: Valeria Olivares Baca, Anahy Diaz, Daniel Guerrero, Daniel subject to editing to fit available space. Please include full name, street address and telephone number and e-mail Web Editor: Marisol Chavez A. Lopez, Sasha Mijarez, Maria Ramos address, plus major, classification and/or title if applicable. Layout Editor: Cynthia “Teddy” Baylon Pacheco, Exodis Ward, Sven Zackey-Kline Copy Editor: Alexia Nava Account Executive: Address and phone number will be used for verification only. Write to 105 E. Union, [email protected], call Sports Editor: Michael Cuviello Ana B. Gonzalez, 747-5161or fax 747-8031. Entertainment Editor: Bryan Mena Senior Designer: Cynthia “Teddy” Baylon Photo Editor: Claudia Hernandez Videographer: Alejandra Molina The Prospector is published by the Student Media and Publications Board, 105 Union East, 500 W. University Ave. El Paso, Texas, Multimedia Editor: Glenda Avalos Advertising Coordinator: Natan 79968. The Prospector appears in print once per week on Tuesdays during the fall and spring semesters. The newspaper is not printed Staff Reporters: Isaiah Ramirez, Contreras during holidays and when classes are not in session. The Prospector does provide news online at www.theprospectordaily.com. Jaqueline Martinez, Margie Cataldi, Paulina Administrative Secretary: Crystal J. Spencer Brown The Prospector is provided to students through student fees. First copy is free. Any additional copies, if available, must be Photographers: Maria S. Ontiveros, Accounting Specialist: Isabel Castillo purchased for $1 through the Department of Student Media and Publications. The Prospector is not responsible for claims made by Hugo Hinojosa Assistant Director: Tracy Roy advertisers. Additional policy information may be obtained by calling The Prospector at 915-747-5161. Opinions expressed in The Contributors: Victoria Almaguer, Anette Director: Veronica Gonzalez Prospector are not necessarily those of the university. This issue was not printed and is only available in this digital PDF format APRIL 21, 2020 NEWS 3 Students weigh in on ‘satisfactory, unsatisfactory’ grading scale

Paulina Astrid Spencer tions gives students flexibility during the crisis The S/U option could help alleviate the stress “It can mess up the GPA of people who aren’t The Prospector and can mitigate their anxiety. that many students feel, especially if they lack used to doing everything online,” said Garcia In an e-mail sent to all students, UTEP wroteA the necessary sources or equipment that an said. As classes move online across the country amid UTEP email addressing all students explained, online class requires, andrequires and gives Some students are concerned about the way the COVID-19 pandemic, the list of colleges “The temporary changes are in place because instructors the opportunity to grade students in it would appear on their transcript and how and universities adopting a Pass or Fail (P/F) of the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak and the a non-conventional way. it could affect their future if they decide to and Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory (S/U) grad- transition to online courses, to provide you “Giving the pass/fail option allows students transfer universities or apply to graduate school ing scale grows. with flexibility and ways to relieve the pressure to still do the work but it won’t tarnish their after graduation. Last week, UTEP announced their decision to of this new situation,.” read a UTEP email ad- grades if going online was more harmful than “I honestly don’t want a P (pass) or F (fail) allow a temporary change in the course grading dressing all students sent on (ADD DATE). helpful,” said Rosales said. letter in my transcript,” said Brenda Gaytan, a policy. UTEP students have differentvarying opinions Although tEven if the option to be graded on junior majoring in business entrepreneurship The change will give instructors the option to on the matter, with some approving of the new a S/U scale seems like the right choice, it does and healthcare management at UTEP. grade in a S/U manner instead of the standard grading option. not go without its share of obstacles. Before electing opting for the S/U grading op- grading scale. As UTEP moved to online teaching, the learn- UTEP urges that, in considering grading option, students should inquire if the S/U grade But what exactly is the S/U grading scale? The ing experienced has changed drastically in a tions, students should talk with their advisors will, negatively influence your their transcript short answer is it’s exactly what it sounds like. matter of weeks. Students left their in-person about any impact these decisions may have on when applying to graduate or professional Instead of a traditional letter grade based on a classes for during sSpring bBreak, only to never their path to degree completion, financial aid schools or be appropriate if you they need to numbers system, the student receives a pass- return for the remainder of the semester and and scholarship eligibility, and international increase your their GPA, according to a UTEP ing grade or a failing grade. continue their education online. student status among many other factors. e-mail. Many universities including UTEP already Michael Rosales, a Sophomore sophomore The most notable concern among students is If you should determine that the S/U option have courses that use the S/U grading method, studying Business business at UTEP, was faced their gradeeat point average (GPA) and how a is appropriate for you, you must fill out thisa for example, the senior internship course. with the reality of taking unwanted online S/U grading scale could affect it. form and returnemail it to [email protected]. Often students commit to a S/U class before a courses. S/U or P/F classes do not count towardimpact a Paulina Spencer may be reached at prospector@ course begins or early in its run, making the “Going online for our classes isn’t as simple as student’s GPA as it does not accumulate points utep.edu. decision this far in the semester a one-of-a- it seems,” said Rosales said. “Each class has a from a numerical grade. kind experience for many students. uniqueness about it that makes transferring on- Isabel Garcia, a Junior junior majoring in com- University provosts and administrations across line possible, butpossible but takes away from munication studies at UTEP, does not agree the country have said expanding pass/fail op- the experience that a face-to-face class gives.” with the S/Unew grading option. 4 NEWS APRIL 21, 2020 UTEP art students adapt to online transition during pandemic

Jaqueline Martinez the metals program are unable to access prop- ceramics professor is also encouraging students work, but not many students do,” said Eber San- The Prospector er machinery, gas lines, torches and soldering to practice hand building techniques and is al- chez, a painting major student. “The struggles stations. Sculpture students can no longer use lowing them to fire their work once everyone is that I am having is the discipline of working at In response to the city’s ordinance, the Uni- the welding station, woodshop and the studio allowed back on campus. Burke has kept his stu- home. Also, painting requires a lot of chemical versity of Texas at El Paso announced it would space. Having classes that are literally hands-on, dents busy with a traditional approach to their use, such as mineral spirits, and I don’t have the be transitioning to online classes for the remain- the DoART’s students and faculty were sud- education and continues to show techniques means to dispose of them, I have to keep them der of the semester to prevent the spread of CO- denly cut off from their facilities and limited by that can be used at home. in jars.” VID-19, leaving professors and students in from the pandemic. “Having the setting change so quickly in the While some students have space at home, oth- the art department questioning how they would “I had a wise mentor who once told me that span of two weeks was hectic,” said Roxana Ro- ers have been forced to get creative. continue their curriculum without having any sometimes in life you just have to take the deck driguez, a UTEP student minoring in metals. “Since the closure of campus, the impact can access to the art studios. of cards and throw them up in the air, reshuffle “With the shutdown, we have resorted to using really be felt. As a student, we get used to hav- With the rapid rise of coronavirus cases in the them to the extreme. The deck of cards, in this alternative materials such as plastic, bags, cloth, ing all the studio space and equipment or tools. U.S., schools were forced to close their doors for case, is our class. Nature just threw the deck up bottles, needles, anything that we can manipu- We each adapt accordingly in our own way and the remainder of the semester and transition into the stratosphere and cards are flying all late without relying on the studio. It’s rather create a system we get accustomed to, especially classes online. According to National Center over the place,” said Ceramics Professor Vincent hard considering we have to stray away solder- as artists, being that a huge part of our art is for Education Statistics, at least 55.1 million Burke to his students as he saw this as an oppor- ing, which is a huge aspect of metals.” process driven,” said John David Ibarra, a print- students were affected by school closures in 19 tunity to approach education from a different Angel Cabrales, a sculpture professor, has also making major student who has had to learn how states and three U.S. territories. angle. “We’re going to remain positive, help each given his students the opportunity to work from to hand-print relief prints, reminiscent of 18th On March 24, UTEP’s Department of Art other however we can and continue to grow and home by having them explore materials around century Asian practices. “It feels like a drastic (DoART) announced on Facebook that it would create art even if it is not at the UTEP studios.” them to create “earth works” with non-tradi- change without necessary equipment, like etch- be closing its doors after the city of El Paso re- After an extended spring break, students con- tional materials that can be found in nature, as ing and lithography presses, exposure units, acid leased a stay at home order. Students were told tinued their studies on March 30 through vir- seen by artist Andy Goldsworthy’s work. The bathes, spray booths and proper ventilation.” to pick up the remainder of their materials and tual lectures and online work. For them, this project has been assigned by Cabrales in the Ibarra had to set up a studio in his home garage supplies, and to clean out their lockers while fol- has been a challenge, but studio professors have past in his sculpture I class, where students have using a worktable and opens the garage door for lowing social distancing protocols. taken this as an opportunity to try new things created these “earth works” in the mountains ventilation when working with solvents. Without studio access, ceramics students and open new horizons for their students. surrounding the UTEP Sun Bowl. Jaqueline Martinez may be reached at prospector@ wondered how they were to continue their work Burke took advantage of the crisis by enroll- “I consider myself really lucky since I have a utep,edu without having access to the kilns. Students in ing his students in an online glaze course. The studio at home where I have plenty of space to

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UTEP.EDU/CARE [email protected] (915) 747-7452 EDITOR BRYAN MENA, 747-7446 APRIL 21, 2020 entertainment 5 These local drag queens continue to shine on social media

Paulina Astrid Spencer guess me, and my followers are accustomed to The Prospector online drag now.” Ofax felt inclined to continue to do drag from El Paso’s stay-at-home order is expected to home as a way of expression and entertainment. last until at least mid-May, but local drag queens “I do take into consideration the elements of have continued hosting drag shows — except entertainment because you always have to stay now they’re completely online. entertaining and iconic,” said Ofax. Like many other careers and workplaces, the For Joshua Yrrobali, 20, known by their stage pandemic has been a nightmare for the drag name “Lavender Thug,” being unable to perform community, even compromising the livelihoods made them feel like they were missing out on of many performers. socializing. Typically, drag is a live industry where per- The first time Thug did an Instagram Live, formers rely on shows and performances for the interaction was low, but by their second at- financial stability and a way to release their art tempt, the viewership had improved and so had into the world. the tips. Drag queens and performers have taken to so- For Thug, entertaining his followers and fans cial media platforms like Twitch and even Zoom during these hard times amid the lockdown is to share videos of makeup routines, lip-syncing vital. and dancing. “All I want to do is entertain people,” said With bars and venues being some of the first PHOTO COURTESY OF LAVENDERTHUG Thug. “Bringing light to people’s day is what we LIKE MANY OTHER CAREERS AND WORKPLACES, THE DRAG COMMUNITY HAS BEEN IMPACTED BY THE PRESENT PANDEMIC, EVEN COMPROMIS- businesses to be shut down in El Paso amid the need right now!” ING THE LIVELIHOODS OF MANY PERFORMERS. coronavirus, performers are finding creative Sal Vargas, 21, known as “Lenox,” was used ways to support themselves and bring entertain- to performing weekly, or around four times a make someone’s day a little bit more special, I “What keeps me motivated is a quote I heard ment to their loyal followers. month, but that quickly changed as clubs and would love to.” from a podcast where the entertainer said, ‘drag 19-year-old drag queen Salem Ofax began bars closed. Along with being fun and entertaining, it gave always finds a way,” said Lenox. “Bringing the their drag art about three years ago by posting However, Lenox did not let the pandemic Lenox a sense of normalcy and a chance to pin magic to people’s screens every now and then photos on social media and participating in keep them from doing what they love, and got his CashApp and Venmo to receive money tips is a good distraction in these really weird and online drag competitions before eventually per- in full costume, and streamed live on Instagram from viewers. uncertain times.” forming at bars and clubs. from a small set up in their living room. With the uncertainty of the future during the Paulina Astrid Spencer may be reached at “I’ve always sought out social media as an- “I wanted to give it a try because my favor- pandemic, local drag queens and performers [email protected]. other outlet to showcase my art,” said Ofax. “I ite part of drag is performing,” said Lenox. “If carry on with the show and continue to provide there’s something I can do as a queer artist to entertainment to many. ‘Steven Universe Future,’ An outstanding series about making peace Hugo Hinojosa Many, including myself, speculated on the re- that his behavior was an exemplification of his ‘Steven Universe Future’ was a chance to learn The Prospector turn of villains from previous seasons. Maybe kindness and maturity. We were led to believe that a relationship with one’s self requires main- even some little cute individual closures for that because Steven was always willing to accept tenance. It explores burn-out, mental exhaus- The Cartoon Network series “Steven Universe other characters, but nothing could’ve prepared others’ mistakes, no matter how bad it made tion and self-negligence while it helps to find Future” came to an end with its final episode me for what creator Rebecca Sugar had in store him feel, he was the bigger person. However, ways to grow and heal. After all, Steven leaves that aired on Mach 27, and with it, the outstand- for us. none of it brought peace to Steven, and that’s the Beach City to find peace in the end, and that’s ing series finally finds closure. When Future began, I was not sure what direc- purpose of Steven Universe Future. the human experience; the message of it all. The final episode of season five ‘Change Your tion the show would take. At first, it seemed like In an interview with CBR, Sugar herself No matter the circumstances, we humans can Mind’ aired on January 2019 and it didn’t leave we were taking a tour on how things were going claims that Steven’s biggest flaw is in fact his be resourceful and possess the ability to adapt. many questions unanswered. It seemed like the to be now that the universe is free. It wasn’t until selflessness. We saw Steven internalizing all his And, as Sugar explains, “part of adapting is un- show had finally gave everyone a happy end- episode 11, “Little Graduation,” where I finally experiences as his fault. He took all the blame of learning the idea that living fearlessly means living then came “Steven Universe: The Movie” in understood what the show was doing — finding having been “tasked with saving the world, being […] as if nothing is going wrong.” Because September of that same year and it became clear a closure for Steven himself. ing antagonized by adults and having multiple things will go wrong. that there was much more to Steven’s journey. As Future’s episode 14, “Growing Pains,” dis- near-death experiences,” as Sugar puts it. This is That is especially relevant now in times of CO- Then the epilogue series, Steven Universe Fu- closed, 14-year-old Steven never got a chance to something only in Future could be clarified. VID-19, where distancing is being forced upon ture, was confirmed and I, quite frankly, could breathe or process all the bad experiences that And it did. Sugar did that. all of us. Although traveling around the country not see how the show could progress even more. befell him. Not even in the movie; not even the In my review of Steven Universe, I mention like Steven did is particularly off limits at the Sure, some characters were left unseen until the season five’s finale. Not even at season 1, episode that the show is internationally recognized for moment, there’s still a lot of way to heal in these series’ more recent season and I could just not 1; there wasn’t a single moment where Steven tackling real, emotional issues like abusive rela- difficult times. see what more this show can teach me, aside stopped and reflected on the traumas he was put tionships, gender and sexual identity. But only “Whatever’s doable right now, … We’re re- from finding me another series to attach to and into. did Future unpacked an aspect of mental health sourceful, we can improvise, we care about each laugh and cry as hard as I did with this one. Throughout Steven Universe, we learned that the show was yet to speak about: the conse- other…” Sugar points out. Video chat more, But lord, was I wrong. about Steven’s selfless nature, always putting ev- quences of living under everyone’s expectations eryone’s well-being first before his. We thought at the expense of your own mental health. see UNIVERSE on page 6 6 ENTERTAINMENT APRIL 21, 2020 How the El Paso community is staying positive during this crisis Jaqueline Martinez The Humane Society of El Paso offers tips The Prospector on how to keep your fur babies active Th e Humane Society of El Paso has closed its Like the emitting light of the moonlight from doors to the public, but their fur babies are still the “Pink Moon,” light is being shined through- in need of mental and physical care — just like out the community amid the shadows of the everyone else’s pet. Th e organization has off ered COVID-19 pandemic through acts of kindness ‘Enrichment activities,’ on their Facebook page, toward the aff ected, sidewalk art and funky yard with daily activities and read throughs that can decorations for daily strollers, recycled trash also keep yourself and your pets entertained turned into treasure and enriching activities for during quarantine. pet owners. Th is is how El Paso residents are re- maining positive during this crisis. Green Hope Project presents “Metamor- phosis: Turning Trash into Treasure” 'El Paso Strong' tree wearing mask Th e Green Hope Project presents the art se- brings 'lots of smiles' during pandemic ries Metamorphosis: Turning Trash into Trea- On the intersection of Glengarry Avenue and sure. As residents are forced to remain home- Turrentine Drive in East El Paso near Cielo Vis- bound, Green Hope Project will be showcasing ta Mall, homeowner Rene Rosales has decorated the amazing art work that was submitted by his front yard tree with a face mask to provide students throughout the city at 2-3 p.m. April local residents and strollers with a laugh. where the Recycled Art Awards ceremony and exhibit will be taking place live on Zoom, which El Pasoans band together in Facebook will include prize giveaway opportunities for ILLUSTRATION BY HUGO HINOJOSA group to celebrate graduating high school those who virtually attend. seniors tion KTSM did a callout on Twitter for pictures yellow hues, emitting 100% illumination at its Th is Facebook community has joined togeth- Residents take to the sidewalks with of some of these creative pieces. peak. El Paso native, Vladimir Avina recorded a er in these diffi cult times for graduating high chalk brief time lapse that depicts the full moon rising schools students, encouraging participants in Aft er the City of El Paso and El Paso County Super Pink Moon,' biggest & brightest of above the Las Cruces, Organ mountains. the group to adopt a high school senior and cel- both issued joint stay-at-home orders, some res- 2020 ebrate their achievements through a gift basket. Jaqueline Martinez may be reached at prospector@ idents have been expressing their artistic skills On Tuesday, April 8 the world witnessed the utep.edu Do you want to lift the spirits of a student? Join through sidewalk chalk art. Local television sta- brightest night of 2020. Th e sky was lit by the the Facebook group. “Super Pink Moon,” with delicate orange and

UNIVERSE from page 5 Quartz. Aft er being expelled from their home ing her limitations as the weakest of her kind (or While some argue that the show had a slow check in to your family, text your parents con- world for treason, Rose fell in love with Greg so she thought). start, I feel like many of the critics’ issues stem stantly, watch videos on staying safe, donate. and gave birth to Steven by giving up her physi- Another way that the show was able to from the show’s poor scheduling and long hia- Find peace on art, self-care, gardening, cooking. cal form so he could live. transmit its compelling messages was through tuses but that doesn’t take away from the show’s Innovate, adapt, heal… “fi nding ways to keep However, a decision that was made out of signing. Yes, singing. Steven Universe’s cast superb narrative from start to fi nish. I believe ourselves and each other safe, and innovating love, turned into a challenge as Steven needed came with the brilliant voices of Zack Colli- that whoever starts watching Steven Universe new ways to connect. Th ese are all incredible to prove to be worthy of being a Crystal Gem son, Deedee Magno Hall, Michaela Dietz and now will fi nd it intriguing and fun to watch. powers.” Sugar said. to save Earth from the Diamond Authority, in rhythm and blues singer Estelle. Not to mention With that being said, I believe that Steven Now that the show has ended, here is the addition to fi xing the mistakes his mother made the cameos with powerhouses like Patti LuPone, Universe is a show that set the standard for ultimate thousands of years ago. Lisa Hannigan, Sarah Stiles, Nicky Minaj, Ru- shows to come. Th e series can and did resonate ‘Steven Universe’ review. Seriously though, what started as a search of Paul’s drag race contestant Jinkx Monsoon, and with many who struggle with gender identity, Th e heartbreaking cartoon series, Steven Uni- identity, became a remarkable story about ac- many more! self-acceptance, toxic relationships, and coming verse, has fi nally come to an end. Th at means ceptance, self-worth, mental health and healthy But outstanding voices are empty without out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. now we can present the ultimate review for the relationships. Not to mention the diversity outstanding songs. 99.9% of the music in the Who would have thought that a show about show (including its epilogue season and movie.) in body compositions, gender and LGBTQ+ show were written and composed by Sugar her- alien rocks from space would teach me to love With the last episode of Steven Universe’s representation. self, from the intro song up to the very last end- being human and, above everything else, enjoy epilogue airing on Cartoon Network, the emo- Th e show was able to portray this through its ing arrangement, we hear in Steven Universe the mundane and accept the change that comes tional journey of the half-human, half-gem boy mindful plots. Each character in the show was Future. But what makes these songs so special with growing up? fi nally comes to a close. never plain, but multifaceted. But also, In the is their simplicity and sometimes sucker-punch- pickaxe rating: 4.5/5 Truly, this show is the perfect example of an series, Earth was expected to be a colony for ing sentiment. “emotional rollercoaster.” Th e story created by the Diamond Authority, which meant that they And to wrap everything together is the back- Sugar is a sentimental one; fi lled with both hi- were to kill all organic life on it to create more ground art style, designed by Steven Sugar, Sug- larious and powerful moments that got nomi- gems. As we learned though, the Crystal Gems ar’s real brother and the person who she based nated to fi ve consecutive Primetime Emmy were able to stop the continuation of the colony, the show’s protagonist. Awards. unfortunately, many gems were able to emerge His style is breathtaking. Although the anima- First introduced in 2013, Steven Universe was during the dispute. Including Amethyst, who tion is entirely diff erent from the fi rst season in Hugo Hinojosa may be reached at prospector@ utep.edu an innocent show that depicted the lives of the emerged hundreds of years aft er the war. So, comparison to the fi ft h season, there’s no deny- Crystal Gems, a group of intergalactic aliens Amethyst must learn her origins while accept- ing that it got progressively better. But enough composed of Garnet, Amethyst, Pearl and Rose words, I’ll let the images speak for themselves. EDITOR MICHAEL CUVIELLO, 747-7446 APRIL 21, 2020 s p o r t s 7 UTEP football players looking to earn a shot in the NFL

Michael Cuviello in not being able to stand out to scouts. Lead- The Prospector ing the team with three sacks, Chukwukelu is a It is that time of year when young athletes high motor guy that will need to work on his around the nation are hoping to hear their technique to make it to the next level. UTEP’s name called in the upcoming National Football three-man front did little to help highlight the League draft. Players at UTEP are no exception. pass rush ability of any of its players last season Currently, seven UTEP alumni are playing in and the defense was quite porous overall. the league. Of the seven, only Aaron Jones and “Being able to play multiple positions on Will Hernandez got their names called on draft the defensive line will definitely give me more day. In 2019, cornerback Nik Needham, who chances to get looks with NFL teams,” Chuk- signed as a free agent with the Miami Dolphins, wukelu said at his pro day. was the only Miner to latch on with a team. Richardson is purely an inside guy at 6-3, 298 This year’s draft will likely not have any Miners pounds that is not known for his pass rushing. having their name called, but there is potential Not as versatile as Chukwukelu, Richardson to get a free agent opportunity for some play- must focus on getting much stronger inside. ers. Needham’s success at moving from a fringe Much like his teammate, Richardson does not roster player to starting 11 games this season possess great straight-line speed but also shows serves as inspiration in knowing that hard work an excellent motor. can pay off. Perhaps the most athletically gifted player for The two most likely players to get a chance to UTEP that is eligible for the draft will be much- hook on with an NFL team are both defensive maligned quarterback Kai Locksley. Standing linemen. Defensive tackles Denzel Chukwukelu 6’4, 210 pounds and possessing 4.6 40-yard and Chris Richardson both have good size for speed, Locksley seems a man without a position their position. for the NFL. As a quarterback, his erratic deci- Chukwukelu, a team captain, stands at 6’4, sion making and play combined with his lack 290 pounds and can play inside or outside on of touch on his passes make him the longest of PHOTO BY MICHAEL CUVIELLO UTEP NFL PROSPECT DEFENSIVE LINEMAN DENZEL CHUKWUKELO PERFORMS DRILLS AT MINER PRO DAY MARCH 12. the defensive line. His size suits him more at shots to get a look at that position. His overall defensive end, but his timed speed seems to athletic ability could intrigue a team, but noth- Dana Dimel said. and “If he doesn’t work there, With less than a week to go for the NFL draft, make him more of a tackle. Chukwukelu’s lack ing he did on or off the field in his college career they will try him at another position.” the route of former UTEP player Needham will of straight-line timed-speed will be a big rea- stands out. His offseason arrest is not something Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic will be a be motivation for caring on the NFL dream for son that he will have to go the free agent path that will endear him to many general managers, detriment for many college athletes that are try- these athletes. to make a team. especially with his less than stellar career. ing to impress NFL scouts, especially the ones Playing in a midlevel conference for one of the “He is such a great athlete that I am sure some Michael Cuviello may be reached at prospector@ from schools from less publicized conferences. worst teams in college football is also a factor team will take him as a quarterback. Head Coach utep.edu My top 10 sports films to keep you in on the game

Michael Cuviello No. 9 “Hoop Dreams” (1994) as Randy the Ram Robinson, an aging wrestler A profoundly moving film that has been known The Prospector Directed by Steve James well past his prime. After suffering a health to make many a strong man teary-eyed. A documentary about two African American setback, Robinson decides to give up wrestling No. 6 “Slap Shot” (1977) No. 10 “He Got Game” (1998) basketball players who travel way across town to and is convinced to try to reconnect with his es- Directed by George Roy Hill Directed by Spike Lee play for a predominantly white high school with tranged daughter. Rourke's performance is the Paul Newman stars as Reggie Dunlap. player This basketball drama stars Ray Allen as Je- a prestigious basketball program. William Gates best of his career and his portrayal of an ath- coach of Charleston Chiefs, a minor league sus Shuttleworth and Denzel Washington as his and Tommy Agee are from two of the most im- lete that just cannot give up his career no matter hockey team. Upon hearing that the team will incarcerated dad, Jake Shuttleworth. Jesus is the poverished areas of Chicago. Both young men what the cost makes this an exceptional film. be folding, Dunlop decides to go to all-out goon top basketball prospect in the nation and ev- see basketball as an escape from their dire situ- No. 7 “Field of Dreams” (1989) hockey. The fans of the town love the new style ery college wants to recruit him, as well as the ations. This compelling film follows the aspira- Directed by Phil Alden Robinson of the team, especially the enforcer trio of the NBA. Jake is furloughed from prison to try to tions of these two young men as they look to A unique film about baseball overall, this fan- Hanson Brothers. “Slap Shot” is a down and convince his son to play for Big State. The father change their station in life with their athletic tasy film about an Iowa farmer played by Kevin dirty comedy that is a crowd-pleaser and one of and son pair have a troubled history, which fur- gifts and achieve the NBA dream. Thoroughly Costner that hears a voice is telling him to build the finest of the genre. ther complicates matters as Jesus tries to make exploring the dynamics of race and class in a baseball field in the middle of his farm. A No. 5 “A League of Their Own” (1992) the most crucial decision of his life. An intensely America, “Hoop Dreams” is a must-see film. great cast abounds with Burt Lancaster, James Directed by Penny Marshall well-acted drama with a compelling first-time No. 8 “The Wrestler” (2008) Earl Jones, Ray Liotta and Amy Madigan as his Documenting a little-known part of base- performance by Allen that explores the system Directed by Darren Aronofsky faithful wife. The film explores how sports can ball history, this film reenacts the founding of that seeks to exploit young black athletes. No dramatic movie has captured the essence be a thread that ties two family members to- of the past of a prime professional wrestler as gether with the memories and experiences of it. see FILMS on page 8 well as this Mickey Rourke vehicle. Rourke stars 8 SPORTS APRIL 21, 2020 FILMS from page 7 the 1919 Chicago White Sox. Allegedly, eight players on the team are paid to throw the World the All-American Girls Professional Baseball Series and this film explores the motivations of League in 1943. The league was established due all involved. A star-studded cast of young ac- to the stoppage of Major League baseball for tors from the ’80s appears in this film and all World War II. Tom Hanks stars as the manager actors give top-level performances. It paints a of the team with a bevy of recognizable actors different era of baseball when athletes were paid such as Geena Davis, Rosie O Donnel and Ma- much less and had little to no power to negoti- donna. A fast-paced, touching film that was one ate. “Eight Men Out” is an impeccably acted and of the first to tell a sports story about women shot period piece about baseball’s darkest scan- that does not focus more on romance than their dal and the fallout from it. love for the sport. The entire cast shines in one No. 2 “Bull Durham” (1988) of the best films about baseball period. Directed by Ron Shelton No. 4 “Rocky” (1976) Directed by John G. Avildsen A tale of a past, his prime minor league catcher has spent a total of 21 days in the major leagues One of the most iconic sports films in history and is on the last legs of his playing career. Kevin and the only Oscar winner on my list of the best. Costner plays the catcher named Crash Davis Sylvester Stallone stars as the title character, a that is told he must mentor an up and coming journeyman boxer that gets the chance of a life- baseball prospect played by Tim Robbins named time. Apollo Creed, played with flair by Carl Ebby Calvin “Nuke” LaLoosh. Nuke is a talented Weathers, decides to give a random fighter a yet immature player and Crash must help him shot at the world title that turns out to be Rocky. figure out his pitching woes. Susan Sarandon is PHOTO COURTESY OF ORION PICTURES A powerful story of an underdog going against KEVIN COSTNER AND TIM ROBBINS STAR IN BULL DURHAM. terrific as Annie, an eccentric baseball groupie all the odds to prove himself. Inspiring multiple who is the love interest of both characters. “Bull sequels and a spin-off, “Rocky” is a hard-hitting this feature to be my favorite. “Shaolin Soccer” the soccer championship. Over the top and ab- Durham” is a quirky comedy that is equal parts sports drama about a club fighter who finds is a silly yet fun sports comedy about a monk surd in so many ways, the films pure comedy baseball and relationship wisdom. more within himself. that wants to find a way to help people find the and top-level special effects make for one of No. 1 “Shaolin Soccer” (2001) No. 3 “Eight Men Out” (1988) spiritual and practical benefits of kung fu in the most enjoyable viewing experiences of any Directed by Steven Chow Directed by John Sayles their life. A disgraced former soccer pro discov- genre. While it is doubtful that many people have The infamous black sox scandal in Major ers his talent and wants to coach him, together this movie at the top of their sports list, I find Michael Cuviello may be reached at prospector@ League Baseball is explored in this drama about they round up his brothers who all have unique utep.edu the sheer energy and love of film on display in abilities to form a team taking on Team Evil in TAKE CARE OF YOUR WATER. KEEP IT CLEAN

Keep material out of the stormwater conveyance Recycle oil, antifreeze, system (curbs, gutters, and other vehicle fluids, sidewalks, streets, drains, or dispose of them Do not dump waste, culverts, and arroyos). properly to prevent the chemicals, paint, Properly dispose of Storm drains are Dispose of grass, leaves, pollution of stormwater, custodial waste, and hazardous wastes, easily identified with yard waste, and construction groundwater and the general rubbish pesticides, and fertilizers. “NO DUMPING” debris properly. Rio Grande. items (tires, old car parts, Call UTEP EH&S to decals at stormwater Leave natural vegetation shopping carts, etc.) into schedule waste pickups. inlets. Recicle aceite, in place where possible No tapar el flujo pluvial a storm drains, channels, anti-congelante y to prevent erosion. canales, alcantarillas y or ditches. Deseche correctamente Alcantarillado de lubricantes o disponga los residuos peligrosos, aguas pluviales es arroyos con basura. propiamente de ellos Si es posible, deje No tirar basura, aparatos pesticidas, y fertilizantes. identificado Disponga correctamente para prevenir crecer la vegetación electrodomésticos, muebles, Llama al departamento con anuncios de de basura vegetal contaminación del en forma natural llantas, y chatarra a EH&S en UTEP y agenda “NO REVERTIR (césped, ramas, y hojas) sistema de drenaje para evitar la erosión. canales y acequias del fecha para recoger DESECHOS AQUI” así como basura pluvial, mantos sistema de drenaje pluvial. los desperdicios. de construcción. acuíferos y el Río Bravo.

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