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2-16-2021

The Prospector, February 16, 2021

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Part of the Journalism Studies Commons, and the Mass Communication Commons Comments: This file is atherr large, with many images, so it may take a few minutes to download. Please be patient. VOL. 106, NO. 10 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO FEBRUARY 16, 2021 Arts & Entertainment Issue Casa Ortiz builds artistic community Nicole Lopez To the left of the entrance of the The Prospector venue, there’s a setup for live music. To the right is a long hallway decorated Casa Ortiz Gallery, a start-up with sculptures and paintings just entertainment venue that began waiting to be explored. operating in October 2020, is Gabriel Martinez, a co-founder and providing El Paso with a spark of artist at Casa Ortiz, had a vision and artistic life. was able to manifest his ideas into an Lying in the heart of Socorro, artistic place. Texas, one of El Paso’s most historical “With the experience and the districts, Casa Ortiz Gallery is based background I had with Galeria in an infrastructure from the 1800s. Lincoln, I was able to know the right Carefully crafted out of adobe, the people and the art community had building has several rooms available already kind of been in the works,” for artists to rent out. In each of these Martinez said about establishing the rooms, El Pasoans can get a closer look gallery. “I am definitely a big part of at the artists' work and what it has to say about them. See Casa Ortiz page 4

The Liquid Gates of Time UTEP Dinner Theatre’s performance New exhibition at the Rubin Center undergoes changes amid COVID-19 Alyson Rodriguez anthropology and director of UTEP’s The Prospector Center for Interamerican and Border Sven Kline this situation. In the early rehearsal Backstage, performing students Studies, and guest curator from The Prospector stages we had to get new equipment were required to remain distant and The Rubin Center held a virtual the Museum of Contemporary Art to be able to rehearse virtually.” wait in the lobby before entering opening on Jan. 28 for its new Tucson, Kate Green. With the coronavirus pandemic Aside from bringing in new the stage, to ensure no crowds were exhibition, “Liquid Gates of Time,” In this ethnographic exposition stretching into 2021 and school equipment for its performances, formed. Every rehearsal, the staff created by the artist XX. of the taxonomy in the El Paso continuing to be affected by social the production’s typically crowded would also disinfect chairs, props The event was hosted by Josiah distancing regulations, UTEP’s ballroom also experienced some or stands before and after people Heyman, UTEP professor of See Rubin Center page 3 Dinner Theatre students and staff changes. According to Zachary touched them, as an extra safety returned to the stage with various Spencer Weigart, a cast member precaution. health regulations in place. and undergraduate assistant for the “I’m sure everyone wants to go The department’s “Broadway theatre, during rehearsals the room back to live performance, because it in Concert” was its first 2021 live, was cleared for more open space isn’t quite the same,” Weigart said. “I online performance. and doors were left opened for air to think throughout this semester there However, with the risk of flow in. will be many live streamed forms spreading COVID-19, the “Theatre is persistent; theatre will of theatre, so we can only hope and production had to adjust to wearing always be around,” Weigart said. “The look forward to live performances masks and performing at a distance. general mood is excitement overall; I again.” “Coming back to rehearsals while think we at the Dinner Theatre have “Broadway in Concert” was a in a pandemic has been interesting, something special and are so lucky to compiled performance of different since we all have to be separated by have the space and opportunities.” Broadway shows like “Chicago,” “The six feet and wearing masks,” said The stage floor was also marked Lion King,” and “Wicked.” The strain Rebecca Quevedo, a freshman and with six-feet apart indicators, so of breathing through masks during musical theatre major, who debuted performers maintained a safe social choreography, was a challenging Photograph courtesy of the Rubin Center on Feb. 6’s performance. “I feel like distance while on stage. This also aspect of rehearsing amid the "Liquid Gates of Time” is available for the public to see through Rubin Center’s we can’t interact with each other as included instrument players, with the well as we could have if we weren’t in virtual tours, created by R. Eric Bowers of Eyefisher. drummer having an acrylic shield. See Dinner Theatre page 3 PAGE 2 OPINION FEBRUARY 16, 2021 ANAHY DIAZ, 747-5161 Black coaches still lack fair opportunities only two teams out of 32 in the NFL of college presidents are white, as are chance at a lower-tier school to coordinator. One of its few minority with a Black offensive coordinator. the vast majority of athletic directors. prove yourself for a major college hires as a coordinator, Mike Canales, Eric Bienemy and Byron Leftwich Conference-USA (C-USA) has one job. Unfortunately, even getting was let go after three seasons. both led two of the top offenses in Black athletic director in its league of the coordinator jobs can be almost Overall, three of the 10 position the league, yet neither was offered a 14 teams. Two of the 14 head coaches impossible and it seems that coaches to include coordinators for head coaching job. in C-USA are Black. programs still do whatever they like UTEP are people of color, running According to the Institute for Among coordinators, the when it comes to hiring coaches back coach, Theron Aych, and Diversity and Ethics in Sports, disparities are equally alarming regardless of experience. cornerback coach, Treyvon Wade. 70% of all NFL players are Black. across the entire NCAA. Of the Mike Huff was the only Black While UTEP is not unique in Approximately 53% of all college NCAA's 65 Power Five schools, coach hired this offseason out of 15 these regards, it is disappointing football players are Black and about there were five Black offensive coaching openings in the NCAA that a school that revels in its 60% are minorities. coordinators and six defensive Division 1. Apparently, the NCAA history for the historic 1966 NCAA So in a sport such as football, one coordinators. Within C-USA and the colleges decided that only one Black Men's Basketball championship would assume that Black players minor conferences, the numbers are coach was good enough to get an has not led the way in its football down the line would turn into somewhat better. C-USA currently opportunity to be a head coach in coaching opportunities. The national Michael Cuviello coaches since their experience on has two teams with Black offensive a sport that is represented on the championship basketball team is the field would give them greater coordinators and five with defensive field by majority-minority athletes. championed for being the first all- The Prospector knowledge of the game they play. coordinators. This whole process and idea is Black starting five in NCAA history Some can argue the impact Unfortunately that is not the case It all starts at the top, where mindbogglingly flawed and has no and led the way for desegregation of of institutional racism has on at the pro or college level. In the mostly white boards choose mostly oversight for hires. major college basketball. advancement within all sectors and NFL, there are only three Black white college presidents and, in We as fans and members of these The lack of diversity with UTEP industries may have been somewhat head coaches out of 32 positions. turn, continue the cycle with their colleges should demand more from football hires sticks out like a sore diminished. Nowhere does the stark The college ranks fare no better in athletic directors. The overwhelming these schools that make money on thumb for a school with its history discrepancy of opportunities for the top division. At the end of the majority of coach hirings are white these minority athletes' backs while and demographic makeup. advancement by people of color 2020 football season, 12 Black head by these same people who build holding little regard for coaches of So as we recognize all the great illuminate itself as sport does. coaches were left standing out of 130 mostly white staffs. color. The NCAA and the universities Black athletes who have starred for As fans of all color celebrated the Division I programs, which amounts Even worse, when a Black head within them should have a clear-cut the Miners during Black History Super Bowl victory by the Tampa to 9% of all hired. coach gets fired, they are also less plan to address these discrepancies Month lets push our institution and Bay buccaneers over the Kansas City College football has no likely to get hired than their white that should be made public. the rest of the NCAA to do better Chiefs, one could not help but notice requirement for its institutions to counterparts for another head UTEP has hired 23 coaches in in promoting opportunities for that the vast majority of people interview a minority candidate for coaching job. their history and not one was a minorities in coaching. who played in the game were Black. open jobs and do not even have to The coaching progression for all minority. Neither recent coordinator Michael Cuviello may be reached at [email protected]. The Buccaneers and Chiefs were an disclose who they interviewed for coaches is supposed to work your hire was Black and the university anomaly in the NFL as they were the the jobs publicly. The vast majority way up to coordinator and get a has no record of hiring a black NEWS UTEP SGA's 'Together We Commit' promotes diversity Julian Herrera previous name, Texas Western especially in the underrepresented support people of color, including Lewis believes the current virtual The Prospector College. It was under this title that communities, and social awareness sharing the most recent news, landscape allows for those that may the institution won the historic of the systemic oppression and petitions, and updating their have been hesitant about attending UTEP’s Student Government 1966 NCAA Men’s Basketball violence faced by Black individuals. followings on social media with facts Black Student Union led groups Association (SGA) obtained Championship game with five Lewis stated there are a variety on court cases and other significant or events, to join in from home exclusive permission for an in- Black starting players. It served as of options that allow individuals to events. and more easily experience the person premiere of it's collaborative inspiration for the UTEP Athletics discussions without feeling isolated. video project, “Together We department to begin a campaign “The biggest motivation would Commit” (TWC), at the Don on campus dedicated to amplifying have to come from the top, and with Haskins Center on Jan. 26. the voices and needs of historically the TWC initiative coming from TWC is a campaign and initiative marginalized and underserved SGA and President Wilson, two of created by UTEP Athletics, who communities. the highest status symbols at UTEP, chose to partner with SGA and the Faith Johnson, a member of the it makes it a lot easier for other Black Student Union for a series of Black Student Union, led a discussion organizations and other students to discussions that seek to address the on ways to identify and avoid follow suit,” Lewis said. concerns of the student body and microaggressions. Johnson defined In his discussion, SGA vice multiple campus organizations in microaggressions as “unintentional president for external affairs, relation to racial justice, inclusion, or subtle discriminations against a Austin Stephens, elaborated on and equity. specific group of people,” and noted his communication role in the “I think it’s important because that while these remarks are often association that acts on the concerns it reminds this generation of a not made with the intent of being of the student population and continued obligation to lead, to racially insensitive, they are often the coordinates with organizations on address issues that have not been product of ignorance. campus to meet their needs. addressed sufficiently, and to take “To combat these remarks, is A primary example is the recent responsibility based on who we to really educate yourself on what evaluation of the campus police are,” said UTEP President Heather you’re saying and what you’re doing,” department which, according to Wilson. “I give a lot of credit to the Johnson said. “We have to be more Wilson, showed that students, students and the Athletic department mindful of what we say to others.” faculty, and staff felt comfortable and for connecting where we are in this Kyra Lewis, vice president of believed they were doing well and moment in time, in this country, to the Black Student Union, spoke on Photograph by Julian Herrera, Illustration by Hugo Hinojosa will continue to operate at the high our heritage as a leading institution.” the impact the string of publicized UTEP’s Student Government Association presented its collaborative video standards held by the University. The title of the initiative drew police brutality over the summer of “Together We Commit” on Jan. 26 at the Don Haskins Center, to promote inspiration from the University’s 2020 had on people’s mental health, diversity and inclusion on campus. See SGA page 4 STAFF SPEAK YOUR MIND VOLUME 106, NO. 10 Submit a letter to the editor! Letters will be edited for clarity and brevity. Letters over 250 words are subject Editor in Chief: Anahy Diaz Valdez-Riva, Sven Zackey-Kline, Nicole to editing to fit available space. Please include full name, street address and telephone number and e-mail Web Editor: Maria Salette Ontiveros Lopez, Victoria Rivas address, plus major, classification and/or titile if applicable. Layout Editor: Cynthia “Teddy” Baylon Advertising Graphic Designer: Copy Editor: Marisol Chavez Hugo Hinojosa Address and phone number will be used for verification only. Write to 105 E. Union, [email protected], Sports Editor: Michael Cuviello Advertising Videographer: call 747-516 or fax 747-8031 Entertainment Editor: Exodis Ward Margie Cataldi Photo Editor: Hugo Hinojosa Administrative Secretary: The Prospector is published by the Student Media and Publications Board, 105 Union East, 500 W. University Ave. El Paso, Texas, 79968. The Multimedia Editor: Margaret Cataldi Crystal J. Brown Prospector appears in print once per week on Tuesdays during the fall and spring semesters. The newspaper is not printed during holidays and when classes are not in session. The Prospector does provide news online at www.theprospectordaily.com. Staff Reporters: Heriberto Perez, Noelia Accounting Specialist: Isabel Castillo Due to COVID19, the office of Student Media and Publications is working remotely. Gonzalez, Isaiah Ramirez, Julian Herrera Assistant Director: Tracy Roy This issue was not printed and is only available in this digital PDF format. Photographers: Alberto Silva, Jasmin Director: Veronica Gonzalez The Prospector is provided to students through student fees. First copy is free. Any additional copies, if available, must be purchased for $1 Campoya through the Department of Student Media and Publications. The Prospector is not responsible for claims made by advertisers. Additional policy Contributors: Victoria Almaguer, Daniel information may be obtained by calling the Prospector at 915-747-5161. Opinions expressed in The Prospector are not necessary those of the university. Alec Lopez, Alyson Rodriguez, Andrea THEPROSPECTOR NEWS | 3 | FEBRUARY 16, 2021

Rubin Center from cover Dinner Theatre from cover and Ciudad Juárez border region, Fallex lets music write itself pandemic, said Emily Hernandez, a XX makes various references to first-time performer for the Dinner southwest culture. Such as images Alberto Silva Gold.” Five electronic indie songs “It really does take a lot Theatre and musical theatre major. and objects of animals from the “The hardest part is trying to The Prospector create the band's second studio of time, writing a new song,” Centennial Museum at UTEP and album, following its 2018 “Space” Terrazas said."We try to make it a breathe though the mask when vintage photographs of Juárez from Local artists have begun defining album release, but the artists say they commercially successful sound, but dancing,” Hernandez said. “Another when it used to be called Paso Del the music scene in El Paso with the are still trying to find what sounds we really do dedicate a lot of time in difficulty was group dances, we had Norte. support of college students, with best. what the song is going to say.” to move around the stage while The art exhibit also holds multiple venues like the Lowbrow Palace “We’re still finding the sound Although “Rose Gold” was maintaining six feet apart.” references to cockroaches. The being at a walking distance from the that we want and what the people released on Aug. 7, 2020, while the Despite the enduring tests the artist took great inspiration from UTEP campus. Discovering local want. Once we see what works for COVID-19 pandemic continued, pandemic placed upon the team, these indestructible creatures, he bands has become a popular hobby the audience, we’ll probably stick Fallex had been working on this Hernandez said it didn’t undermine believes that they are a symbol of for some UTEP students. to that,” Contreras said. “We’re very project for the past two years. its will and aspiration to carry out futurity. One of the more notable Fallex, whose name means “Fall open to new approaches to anything.” “We had finished all the its performance as it so sought and cockroaches' sculptures is a large Exercise” from an old North Atlantic As of now, the band has over 30k recordings a year ago,” Ramirez said. craved over the break. model of a cartoon cockroach sitting Treaty Organization (NATO) streams on Spotify with singles like “The thing that quarantine did stop “When something catastrophic up and waving its arms with a scared command post, is a pop-rock indie “The Outpost,” “1967,” and “Fake,” was all the shows and promotions we happens, what usually follows is art,” expression on its face. band from El Paso comprised of being their most popular songs. had planned.” Hernandez said. “Art is vital because Other art pieces in the exhibit UTEP students. The band consists In the writing process, Ramirez As the band continues to write this is how we connect and express include a small yellow balloon is bass guitarist Gilberto Terrazas, is typically the one who comes up and engage with its audience online, ourselves. Aug. 3, 2019 (El Paso with a long white string tied to a vocalist and guitarist Brian Ramirez, with a riff or a melody, then everyone it looks forward to the future and Walmart Shooting) was a horrific cinderblock. drummer Oscar Morales and else writes their own pieces to build what its limitless sound has in store. day, and that night I had a show. We guitarist Zeke Contreras, who first didn’t cancel, we knew after such a “The meaning behind thought on ideas of what they think would Alberto Silva may be reached at [email protected] provoking is to represent uplifting met each other in elementary school sound best. @albertosilva_f on Twitter. horrible day the audience needed our even though the balloon is being and continued their friendship According to Fallex, Ramirez art to help them smile and laugh and held down and can’t float due to through high school. wrote most of the lyrics for the give them a moment of peace.” being tied to a cinderblock,” Green The band began playing in 2012. album “Space”, but everyone was With such a radical change to the said. Fast forward to 2020, it has now involved in the writing process for way performances are presented, Above the balloon and released its latest EP titled “Rose “Rose Gold.” the show’s crew now welcomes this cinderblock art piece is a stuffed change into future post-COVID-19 bird relative to the southwest region. performances that strain away from According to the Rubin Center's traditional presentation. website this is the artist’s most “I am actually open to performing extensive museum exhibit to date. online and in person,” Hernandez There is also other artwork and said. “Online, I can reach a wider materials being shown alongside audience, and in person I can have the exhibition which includes the more of a personal connection Centennial Museum collection with the audience. But I do enjoy of cultural artifacts, the Special both forms of play perception, the Collections archives of border audience gets multiple styles of initiatives and the university’s creativity and art.” Biodiversity Collections of native People who missed the online specimens. performance can stream it on www. Beginning Feb. 22, the Rubin crowdcast.io/e/broadwayinconcert. Center will accept visitors in limited Hernandez said fans of the theatrical numbers from 12-5 p.m., Monday arts can rest easy knowing that through Friday. Exhibitions will the flame to persistently perform launch virtually on Feb. 15, with 360 amongst UTEP’s Dinner Theatre’s degrees virtual tours, produced by R. actors has surely not diminished. Eric Bowers of Eyefisher. “I hope in person performances You can learn more about this return" Hernandez said. "But, for exhibition and other new ones at Rubin now, the show must go on." Center’s website https://www.utep.edu/ Sven Kline may be reached at [email protected] rubin/ or on Instagram @rubincenter. @SvenKline on Twitter. Alyson Rodriguez may be reached at [email protected] Photograph by Alberto Silva @alyson_rod1127 on Twitter. Fallex members (from left to right) Zeke Contreras, Oscar Morales, Gillberto Terrazas, and Brian Ramirez stand together at UTEP's Centennial Plaza on Feb. 1, 2021. El Paso reacts to Biden's reversal on transgender military ban Victoria Rivas as their self-identified gender and announced policy to allow People like Xochitl Colmenero In a statement, the White House The Prospector ensure the military will pay for transgender Americans to serve Martinez, 21, tabling and event said America is stronger at home their gender transition medical openly in the military starting July coordinator of the Queer Student and around the world, when it is On Monday, Jan. 25, President procedures. 2017. In 2017, Trump announced Alliance (QSA) at UTEP, hopes inclusive, with the military being no Joe Biden signed an executive order “President Joe Biden’s collective his administration would not allow Biden’s administration will bring exception. overturning a ban set by former decision to overturn the LGBTQ+ the group to serve openly in the equality for transgender individuals. “This executive order will benefit President Donald Trump that military alliance ban is long overdue,” military, claiming it was a cause of “President Biden overturned a local transgender individuals greatly,” restricted transgender personnel said Vic Doster, a therapist at the “tremendous medical costs.” ban that should have never existed in Martinez said. “El Paso houses such from joining the military. Borderland Rainbow Center in El Transgender people who were the first place,” Martinez said. “The a large military base in the U.S. and “It’s simple: America is safer when Paso. “A person’s ability to serve already serving in the military ban imposed by Trump during his is a great place for those looking for a everyone qualified to serve can do so their country, should not be in could continue to do so, but the time in office was discriminatory career in the military to get started.” openly and with pride,” Biden wrote question because of their gender new soldiers who identified as and reserved advancement made for On his first day in office, Biden on Twitter. identity. The military is a diverse transgender would have to serve as the LGBTQ, especially transgender signed an executive order that This executive order protects workforce.” their assigned sex at birth. In 2019, individuals who wished to join the expands anti-discrimination transgender soldiers from being Trump’s ban was a reversal the Defense Department finalized U.S. military.” removed from the military. This of President Barack Obama’s the policy. order will allow recruits to serve See Transgender page 4 | 4 | NEWS THEPROSPECTOR FEBRUARY 16, 2021

Casa Oritz from cover the space, for sure, but I feel like it’s a UTEP presents National Science Board Vision 2030 collaborative effort as well.” Martinez and other artists at Casa Sven Kline the participation rates currently Ortiz are drawn to the beauty the The Prospector of underrepresented groups, the missions of Socorro bring to the ‘missing millions.” Vice Chair of the National Science “Our nation’s diversity is one of our artistic community of El Paso. McCrary moved forward to NSB’s Board (NSB), Victor McCrary, said “I feel like El Paso already had this greatest strengths and leveraging this plans of achieving these goals by he believes the United States’ science awesome art district on the mission developing STEM talent, delivering and technology leadership is at a trail, so we’re just adding our own strength by broadening participation in benefits from research, expanding crucial moment in time. Its success is edition to the continuation of that the geography of innovation and based on the decisions STEM leaders the (United States) S&E enterprise will idea,” Martinez said. fostering a global S&E community. make from this point forward. When Martinez started Bringing attention to these goals “Vision 2030 embraces what we be crucial to individual opportunity and contributing at Casa Ortiz, it was and the need to be technologically as a board, the governing board only a matter of time before other a thriving economy.” advanced in order to not be over the NSF (National Science artists would come in and display surpassed by another nation, Foundation), can do over the next their creations. Nico Antuna Cooper, -Victor McCrary, McCrary expressed his approval ten years,” McCrary said during alongside Martinez, helped get the of President Joe Biden’s newest his Jan. 26 virtual Special Research Vice Chair of National Science Board word out about Casa Ortiz. executive order to rejoin the Paris Forum hosted by UTEP’s Office of Cooper has a studio of his own at Accord so the U.S. can reach global Research and Sponsored Projects. Casa Ortiz, where he plans to include achievements. At the forum, he was joined by more variations of his work. “You (UTEP) are already thinking UTEP President Heather Wilson, well as having created “an accessible to everyone and create a thriving “Being somewhere with so much or doing many of the things board who became a member of the NSB and attractive S&E (science and economy. history has a big effect on my art,” members believe we need to achieve in 2020. Here, McCrary and Wilson engineering) enterprise” that reflects “Our nation’s diversity is one of Cooper said. “It’s kind of making me the vision,” McCrary said. “This is work with the NSF to recommend the country’s demographics and our greatest strengths and leveraging have more connections to the roots not just the NSF’'s vision, this is not and encourage research and geographics more accurately. this strength by broadening of this area and the roots of who just the civilian vision, it's everyone’s education and advise the president Stressing a goal to increase the participation in the United States' I am, and I am very grateful to be vision.” and Congress on policy matters number of demographics in the S&E enterprise will be crucial here.” Sven Kline may be reached at [email protected] related to science and engineering. S&E, McCrary said it is important to individual opportunity and Casa Ortiz is a steppingstone in @SvenKline on Twitter. “Vision 2030: Vision for the to recruit and retain women and thriving economy,” McCrary said. providing local artists with a more Future” is a recently published NSB other historically underrepresented “To close this talent gap, we must legitimate place to display their art report. In his presentation, McCrary groups to offer more opportunities accelerate progress and increase and network with other artists. highlighted some of the key sections “With Casa Ortiz, there’s more of this report that the U.S. and NSF official events that are staying around would need to have done by 2030 to longer,” Cooper said. “It legitimizes adopt emerging trends in science and the venue and then the public comes engineering. out and sees it as more legitimate as Going into this agenda, McCrary w e l l .” stated data was obtained at Vision One of the many featured artists, Listening Sessions at Washington Gabriel Marquez, has been able to University in St. Louis, Santa reach his goals thanks to the support Fe Institute, and Arizona State that comes from the community at University, among others. Attendees Casa Ortiz. were asked about the emerging “I’m here to make my work public. trends they saw in their field that I took the opportunity to make were affecting their practice, such as myself present,” Marquez said. “What science and engineering. better way to do it than in a beautiful McCrary reminisced from the adobe house from the 1800s?” Vision Listening Sessions, pointing The 2012 UTEP graphic design out that “the U.S. remains a magnet graduate, explores symbolic features for the world’s best talent.” of desert animals and mystic creature According to the NSB, the U.S. through progressive contour lines. Photograph by Sven Kline must have increased STEM skills in Aside from Casa Ortiz, his art can UTEP President Heather Wilson welcomes Vice Chair of the National Science Board, Victor McCrary, to present the board's its workforce to create opportunities be found in local places like Savage amongst the American population, as vision for 2030 on Jan. 26, 2021. Goods, Mas Y Menos, and Golds Gym’s Trawood location. In addition to providing a creative space and a historical site, Transgender from page 3 is another step towards equity.” SGA from page 2 death of George Floyd at the hands the architectural features of the Doster and Martinez feel like of police, and many athletes spoke building have drawn in more people. protections to LGBTQ Americans. Biden is making good decisions Ann Horak, an associate professor to the department director about Marquez said people driving by find The act directs federal agencies with towards securing transgender of practice for the college of liberal wanting to use their platform to themselves curious, deciding to make protections against discrimination rights and equality and hope he will arts, elaborated on the active speak about its significance. a quick stop to see what the gallery is based on sex to interpret those continue to do so. programs throughout campus and “I feel like this is a very powerful all about. statutes to protect against “I do hope that transgender El Paso that are contributing directly thing that we started here,” Howard “That makes it really easy for us,” discrimination based on sexual individuals can secure more laws for to combating racial inequality. These said. “I feel it’s very important for Marquez said. “It’s even better for us orientation, gender identity and equality and safety under the new include the Diversity and Resiliency the incoming students and student so that we can show our work and gender expression. administration,” Martinez said. Institute of El Paso, the Academic athletes to really understand the have it open for people to come in as “Many transgender identifying Revival of indigenous Studies and significance behind it and what it’s people have been waiting for this Victoria Rivas may be reached at [email protected] they please.” @VicRivas_18 on Twitter. Education (ARISE) at UTEP, and about.” Although the pandemic placed moment, as the time that passed, faculty led organizations such as the Darley noted the importance a long halt on holding events and where the previous administration’s Black Affinity Group or the Anti- accountability and acknowledging art shows, Casa Ortiz is finding transgender ban was in place, has Racism Task Force. racial injustice is key to finding a a way to help artists rise through been far too long,” Doster said. “This Black Student Union member, solution. their struggles. Across the gallery is Cedric Dorman, said the path to “Racism has negatively impacted Mission Trails Brewery, which aims racial equality is a communal effort, the lives of many Black people,” to open in March. On the other side and confronting discriminatory or Darley said. “If you don’t speak on of the street is a theatre, where they racist remarks is vital to increasing racism it’s the same as saying racial plan to open the venue for musicians cultural consciousness. Dorman injustice doesn’t exist.” and to host weddings. encouraged viewers to amplify As support for the initiative grows, “Every day it’s something new, people of color’s voices by acting the video project that SGA shared whether it’s someone helping us on as an ally, who continually utilize has already begun making an impact a project or on the yard,” Marquez resources to educate themselves and on its viewers. Hugo Dominguez, a said. “It’s going to be great.” others on the subject of race. senior in computer science, stated To learn more about future events at “I know it can be very scary, but that he felt inspired to research ways Casa Ortiz Gallery, visit its Instagram please, don’t let that hold you back to be more mindful and share it with page at @casaortiz915. from doing the right thing,” Dorman his social media following. said. “I learned in recent years that Nicole Lopez may be reached at [email protected] “I think UTEP has created a very @nicoleilopez on Twitter. putting my foot down and making welcoming environment for culture myself uncomfortable is in the end and diversity,” Dominguez said. what’s going to make me comfortable “Seeing that UTEP is taking the steps with being myself.” to address current social issues shows UTEP Volleyball student athletes, it is dedicated to the students and Kenidy Howard and Alianza Darley their needs.” reflected on the creation of the TWC The full video for “Together We initiative in the athletics department Commit” can be streamed in its entirety Photograph courtesy by Ted Eytan and what it meant for them and the on YouTube at https://www.youtube. Protestors hold signs outside the White House, against former President Donald University. com/watch?v=026lCqsJNM0&t=1s Howard said TWC was born out Trump's transgender military ban. This material is licensed to the public under Julian Herrera may be reached at [email protected]. the Creative Comm. of the public outcry following the PAGE 5 ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 16, 2021 EDITOR EXODIS WARD, 747-5161 El Paso announces new public art plan Noelia Gonzalez communities. The Prospector The location of this mural is significant because the Stanton City Council met on Jan. 21 to Port of Entry is one out of three disucss the adoptation of the Public bridges that connect the United Art Plan for 2021. States with Mexico in El Paso. This The Public Art Plan will update artwork represents a bi-national completed projects and breaks down and bi-cultural relationship with the those scheduled for this year. Any neighboring city of Cd. Juárez. projects that were postponed last One significant project is the year because of the pandemic are Remembrance-Crime Victims also included in this schedule. Memorial, created in 2009. The The 2021 Public Art Plan includes Memorial is dedicated to those who $1,430,000 for new projects and have died from acts of violence in $10,475,000 for previously approved the city. The sculptural pavilion is projects, $11,905,000 in total. located in the Lower Valley and looks “We have 6 new projects for the like an abstract wing to represent 2021 plan,” Public Art program transformation and taking flight. supervisor, Miriam Garcia, said. There are four black polished granite “We have a couple of projects for discs, each eight feet in diameter, Photograph by Hugo Hinojosa library renovations and also a big that hold the engraved names of the new facility that would be part of the The mural, El Paso Port-All, was created by Jari “WERC” Alvarez in 2012. Representing new and old icons in new ways giving deceased. Eastern Regional Command Center the viewer multiple experiences. Stanton Port of Entry is one out of three area bridges that connect the United States. In 2020, the memorial added 76 for the Police Department.” names, as part of the annual Public This program was adopted by The department is building a two mural replacements. One alligators were removed due to Art Plan. City Council in an effort to integrate public collection of artworks created replacement is the Geronimo mural people abusing the animals and Another program the department public artworks throughout El Paso. by El Paso artists to recognize the located across from the Costco at sometimes killing them. has is the Allied Artist Program Since 2006, the City’s Public Art artistic talent and cultural diversity of Geronimo Dr., a 1999 project of the The City of El Paso partnered with which commissions experienced Program has completed 72 projects the city. The Art Purchase program is El Paso Millennium Community local artist, Luis Jimenez, to bring the artists to create projects of $125,000 with 24 in progress. 168 artists have only available for local artists. Celebration depicting the Union iconic symbol back in 1995. In 2015, or more. The goal is to gain the worked with the program, 80% of “Last year we had funds left Station and parts of military the sculpture underwent an $80,000 technical and administrative whom are local artists. and we spent about $88,000 in equipment that represent the city’s restoration as part of the Public Art expertise needed to compete within One project planned for this year purchasing art from the local artists relation to the army. Program Plan for that year. It is still the field of public art. will be a permanent memorial at to help the community and the artist Past projects include Los Lagartos there today. These opportunities are all Ponder Park for the victims of the community to do better during the (The Alligators) and the El Paso Port- The mural titled El Paso Port-All, available due to the annual Public Cielo Vista Walmart shooting. pandemic,” Garcia said. All mural. Los Lagartos sculpture, was created by Jari “WERC” Alvarez Art Plan that The Museums and “The one we currently have is a Other projects in progress include located in San Jacinto Plaza, pays in 2012. Located at 1001 S. Stanton Cultural Affairs Department present temporary memorial,” Garcia said. artwork at the Joey Barraza and homage to the live alligators that “St.,” the mural encompasses the to City Council every year. “The panels for people to hang their Vino Memorial Park in Northeast El were kept in a gated artificial lagoon themes and concepts that evoke the Paso, new neighborhood waterparks in the middle of San Jacinto Plaza idea of art transforming, inspiring, Noelia Gonzalez may be reached at [email protected] stuff, that’s where it will be.” @OfficialNoeliaG on Twitter. in District 2 and District 7, and from 1889 through1965. The live healing, weaving, and empowering Must-see films for Black History Month Michael Cuviello the film. Selma (2014) directed by Ava The Prospector DuVernay Boyz in the Hood (1991) directed by In the midst of Black History As rare as it is for a black director Month, it is an excellent time John Singleton to get any award recognition for to reflect on Black filmmakers' John Singleton was the first their films, Ava DuVernay sits alone contributions to cinema. Since the Black filmmaker nominated for best as the only woman of color to have beginning of the film era, Black director in 1991 for this coming­ their movie nominated for a Best filmmakers have given their unique of-age drama that starred Cuba Picture award. There has been no perspective in films despite the Gooding Jr., Larry Fishburne and Black woman ever nominated for limited opportunities in the industry. Ice Cube in his film debut. The Best Director. However, it's entirely The Academy Awards have never story of a young man sent to live possible that the 2021 Awards may honored a Black filmmaker with the with his father in South Central Los finally break that glass ceiling with best director award since its creation Angeles is a well-acted depiction of some strong contenders. Selma is a in 1929. It took 62 years before a the African American experience. It powerful retelling of the civil rights Black director was nominated for the has a level of authenticity that adds march from Selma to Montgomery, award. Up to today, the Oscars have power and nuance to its storytelling, Alabama, led by Martin Luther nominated six Black directors for its making it rise above what could have King and other activists to secure award. The Academy has awarded been a basic exploitation piece with voting rights for Black people in the the best picture award to a film from a lesser filmmaker. A compelling state. Only one year removed from a Black director twice. and influential film that was also the 1964 Voting Rights Act, states Below are 11 films I recommend nominated for Best Screenplay. like Alabama were still ignoring to appreciate the filmmakers' craft the federal government and doing Moonlight (2016) directed by Barry everything they could to deny people and diligence and give them the Photograph courtesy of Disney+ recognition they deserve. These 11 Jenkins of color the right to vote. While MLK is a significant part of the story, the Elizabeth Olsen is Wanda Maximoff and Paul Bettany is Vision in Marvel Studios’ films are not a definitive list of the In one of the biggest Oscar upsets film gives a broader perspective that “WandaVision,” exclusively on Disney+. best by Black filmmakers and is not of all time, this Barry Jenkins drama the movement was not just about a meant to diminish films that are not became the second film by a Black few individuals as it reenacts these mentioned. director to win an Academy Award iconic events. for Best Picture. Even in winning, it 'WandaVision' brings an 12 Years a Slave (2013) directed by became a part of one of the strangest BlackkKlansman (2018) directed by Steve McQueen moments in Oscar history when exciting new feel to the Spike Lee This 2013 biographical drama the presenters named the wrong was the first film to win an Academy film after being given the incorrect Based on the 2014 memoir by Marvel Cinematic Universe Award for Best Picture that a Black envelope. This story is about a young Austin High School Graduate, Ron filmmaker made. British-born Steve man who grapples with his sexuality Stallworth, about his experience and identity growing up in Miami as the first Black Colorado Springs Isaiah Ramirez Marvel Disney+ show and introduces McQueen, brought his adaptation a new fascinating feel. of Solomon Northrup's memoir projects. Depicting its character in police officer. While assigned to The Prospector three stages of developing manhood, the intelligence section of the The series began Feb.1 and about a free Black man kidnapped Phase four of the Marvel the film is groundbreaking for its department, Stallworth then is able releases a new episode every Friday. and sold into slavery to the screen Cinematic Universe (MCU) film rarely shown story of a Black LGBTQ to infiltrate the Ku Klux Klan and Currently, there are six episodes all with an unflinching view into the series kicked off with “WandaVision” character's journey. Mahershala Ali expose its great reach. The film directed by Matt Shakman, who has horrors of the colonial slave trade. a show streaming exclusively on won a Best Supporting Actor award stars John David Washington as the also directed episodes of “Game of Great performances from Chiwetel Disney+. Creatively, the show does for his unforgettable portrayal of a Ejiofor as the title character and wonders for the MCU as the first Lupita Nyong'o are real highlights of father figure to the main character. See Films page 6 See WandaVision page 6 | 6 | ENTERTAINMENT THEPROSPECTOR FEBRUARY 16, 2021 WandaVision from page 5 Professors named Poem-A-Day guest editors Thornes” and “Fargo.” The series follows Elizabeth Julian Herrera Best American Poetry 2019,” a Olsen and Paul Bettany as their The Prospector cornerstone publication in the poetry popular superhero characters in world. the MCU Wanda Maximoff, aka Two UTEP creative writing According to an interview Scarlet Witch and Vison, as they live professors have been selected by the conducted with UTEP’s University through various classic American American Academy of Poets (AAP) Communications, Alcalá explained sitcoms. The propose or reasoning as guest editors for the 2021 Poem- that her poetry selections for Poem- behind the characters’ life setting is A-Day series. a-Day will be comprised of poets underdetermined but is one of the Rosa Alcalá and Sasha Pimentel that she admires or believes deserve main inquires in the show. will curate poetry for their respective recognition. The series provides a blend of months. Poem-a-Day is a daily “All in all, the process can take classic sitcoms such as “I Love Lucy” digital poetry series launched in months, from the thinking to the and “MASH,” as well as “Bewitched,” 2006 by the AAP that delivers new asking to the selection,” Alcalá said while the MCU proceeds with its and unpublished poetry directly to in a news release. She hopes to timeline following the events of users via the web, social media, or include translated poems as well, and “Avengers: Endgame.” The show is email subscription. Each month, recognized the honor of her position portrayed as a fictional sitcom that a designated editor curates a and the support she has received is being watched on television by selection of poems to be featured from the AAP as a prestigious a viewer while an unknown entity on the weekdays, with some poems organization. causing havoc is alluded to in the featuring exclusive commentary by Sasha Pimentel, Ph.D., was born show. There are also several easter the poets. in Manila, Philippines, and raised eggs scattered throughout the show Rosa Alcalá, is a professor of between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. such as a commercial advertising and creative writing and will curate She is an Associate Professor in the a “Stark Industries” toaster oven. poetry for the month of September. bilingual Department of Creative “WandaVision” is a series that is She was born in Paterson, New Writing at UTEP and will curate the an extraordinary idea brought to Jersey, to immigrant parents and poetry selection for the month of Photograph courtesy of Margarita Mejía life by Marvel where two popular received her PhD in English from March. Two professors of UTEP’s Bilingual MFA in Creative Writing Department chosen MCU characters are intertwined SUNY Buffalo in 2004. Alcalá is a Pimentel is also faculty in UTEP’s to guest edit worldwide poetry series for March and September 2021. Pictured in a unique situation that is full of distinguished poet and translator Chicano Studies Program and above is Rosa Alcalá, Ph.D. different emotions. The show’s ability and the recipient of a National was the Picador guest professor to pay exceptional homage to past Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in Literature at Institut für Board of Regents. singular, or small,” Pimentel said. sitcoms is what makes this show Translation Fellowship. Amerikanistik at Universität Leipzig “For Poem-a-Day, I really tried Pimentel also described the standout. Alcalá’s work as a translator, in Germany for the 2018 – 2019 to bring in not just a lot of people of influence of Alcalá’s work as a Olsen and Bettany’s performances underlines the work and experiences period. Her instruction and research color, but people of color with trans­ transnational writer, showing her on screen are phenomenal and the of contemporary Latin American explore the intricacies and poetics of national identities and points of ability to encompass the vast scope of chemistry between the two from women poets in the United States. identity and societal issues, including view,” Pimentel said. identity and existence while writing their other standout acts in the She has been featured in numerous immigration, ethnicity, and gender. She hopes that her curation in a relatable and intimate form. MCU’s various films makes this anthologies and is the author of three Pimentel has been awarded by will help to expand the reader’s Both Pimentel and Alcalá have series a contender for one of the best books, including her 2017 effort the National Poetry Series and won conception of “American” poetry expressed their honor at having products Marvel has ever produced. entitled “My OTHER TONGUE.” the American Book Award for her by incorporating the voices and been selected by the academy to Since the duo’s introduction in 2015’s Alcalá’s poems have been poetry collections “For Want of experiences of individuals that be representative of the influence “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” the powers translated into multiple languages Water” in 2017 and “Insides She harness their international identities that UTEP’s Creative Writing possessed by these superheroes and she’s performed readings and Swallowed” in 2011. Her work has and consciousness in their art. Department has in the world of from superhuman intelligence to workshops both in the U.S. and been featured in The New York “Multiple things can exist in us contemporary poetry. Poetry from energy manipulation, are some of my in Latin America. In 2018, she Times Sunday Paper and The at once, and I wanted to bring in Poem-A-Day can be found at poets. personal favorites in the MCU. edited and co-translated “Cecilia American Poetry Review, and she writers who know that fluidity and org/poem-a-day Kelly Lawler from USA Today Vicuña: New & Selected Poems.” is the recipient of the Outstanding multiplicity of existence beyond how Julian Herrera may be reached at [email protected]. described the show as “wildly She was recently featured in “The Teaching Award by the UT System’s we are often made more linear, or experimental” and said that it blurs the line between TV show, overlong Films from page 5 baggage; especially the mythology Malcolm X (1992) directed by Spike deal with the transgressions is on full film, and corporate cheerleader. This conveyed that the few Black Lee fascinating display. From bystander is a fair assessment to make. The protagonist and Adam Driver as characters usually disappear from A list such as this could be to protest to the courtroom, the jump into phase four of the MCU is his partner. Lee's work serves as an the story relatively quickly. “Get film is a well-told testament of experimental in the sense that this exploration into the hateful mindset almost solely populated with Lee Out” serves to give uneasiness that films. “Do the Right Thing” is a the communal bonds that bind a is, no pun intended, a new phase for of white supremacy and makes it a person of color may still feel even community. Marvel. relevant to recent events in our seminal film and may be Lee's best when all appears to be quite normal work as regarded by many. I would I believe “Wanda Vision” is just country. Humorous and harrowing as racism is masked within everyday One Night in Miami (2020) directed the beginning of what is going to be a at times, this piece of cinema makes tend to agree and see it as one of environments. Horror and Sci-Fi the best movies ever made by any by Regina King new style of content in the MCU. a strong statement about the divide are spliced into a perfect mashup director regardless of color. For this In the Academy Awards history, New York Times writer Mike that still continues in many ways with racism cast as the real villain. list, though, I include Malcolm X there has never been a woman of Hale describes the previous Marvel as people exploit the ideas of racist The film was nominated for Best for its portrayal of the civil rights color nominated for Best Director TV series such as “Jessica Jones” ideology as some form of patriotism. Director, Best Picture, and Best leader and bringing to life one and only five women have been and “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” as Nominated for both best picture and Original Screenplay, of which Peele of the most iconic novels on the nominated ever. Katheryn Bigelow shows that provided some solid best director, the film did win Lee his was the first Black recipient of the African American experience, “The is the lone woman director to win entertainment until the “corporate first in competition Oscar for best- award in history. Thanos in Burbank decided their adapted screenplay. Autobiography of Malcolm X.” Lee's the prestigious award for the Hurt film is an ambitious undertaking Locker. In her directing debut, King time was up,” referring to Disney +. If Beale Street Could Talk (2018) Hale states that odd does not by itself Precious (2009) directed by Lee of this novel. Originally a white is poised as a favorite to become equal good and it feels as if we are directed by Barry Jenkins director was in place to make the the first nominated Black female still waiting for the real show to get Daniels Jenkins's second film on the list film, but public outcry and script director. One Night in Miami is started. Gabourey Sidibe makes her film was nominated for best screenplay problems had Norman Jewison step a fictional account of a meeting Personally, I can see the debut in this story of an abused, for his adaptation of the acclaimed away from the project. Once named between Muhamad Ali, Malcolm X, frustration with the prolonged illiterate African American 16-year­ James Baldwin Novel. It stands new director, Lee made substantial Sam Cooke and Jim Brown in a hotel storyline but the twists and turns old. She survives multiple rapes as the only English language film changes to the screenplay. Denzel room in Miami. Adapted from a play, of the series is the gem of the show. from her father that culminate in her of a fictional work by the literary Washington in the title role gives the film is a compelling conversation If explanations of why certain being pregnant twice and endures giant. Beale Street's plot deals with one of his best performances with from the four very famous icons' occurrences happen in the show were constant degradation from her a wrongly charged Black man and a complex portrayal of the ever- perspective as they talk about their given to viewers from the very first mom as she grows up in Harlem, his girlfriend’s efforts to help him. evolving figure. Washington was accomplishments and aspirations episode, I believe the show would not New York. Much of the film is a The plot involves two lovers that are nominated for Best Actor but did at a pivotal time in the civil rights have as much unique substance as tough watch and Mo’Nique gives a torn apart when Fonny is arrested not win. era. The discussions about each it does. A monumental series finale riveting performance as her hateful for a crime he did not commit, one's place in the dynamic and how may be coming, so the continuous mother. It is a story of nature versus Tish, his girlfriend and her family Mangrove (2020) directed by Steve they view each other are fascinating buildup is beneficial. nurture that is unabashed in its fight to clear his name. The film is McQueen cinema. All four actors that portray graphic depiction of events. While “WandaVison” can be streamed on gorgeously shot and captures its McQueen makes my list a second the legendary subjects do an Disney+, which can be purchased for far from a feel-good story, Precious characters' essence as it judiciously excellent job of adding dimension to is about overcoming and surviving time for his film about the 1971 $6.99 a month. develops them throughout the movie trial of the Mangrove Nine. It is a these characters. the horrors that life can throw at you, into a full exploration of the black Every year, American presidents Isaiah Ramirez may be reached at [email protected] which in itself, can be a victory. story about a West Indian restaurant @IsaiahRamirez1 on Twitter. experience. It is a profound love story owner in the Notting Hill district endorse a specific theme for Black on the African American experience of West London, England, that is History Month. This year, the theme Get Out (2017) directed by Jordan in overcoming the oppressive justice entangled in racist discrimination is “Black Family: Representation, Peele system. There is nuanced poetry in from the local police continually Identity and Diversity,” which aims at In Peele's debut about a young how the film portrays the events harassing the community. Initially, exploring the African diaspora and Black man meeting his white at hand, with stellar performances the owner resists efforts to get spread of Black families in the United girlfriend's family for the first time, from all involved. Regina King is a involved politically but realizes that States. These films add to the theme he masterfully subverts genre tropes standout as Tish's mother fighting he is involved no matter if he chooses and set a standrad for a continued with surprising social commentary the oppressive justice system that to be. The movie's depiction of the conversation in the world. and suspense. Horror films have only wants to clear a case. initial contrast in how the new and Michael Cuviello may be reached at [email protected] long carried racial stereotypes and the older generations perceive to PAGE 7 SPORTS

FEBRUARY 16, 2021 EDITOR MICHAEL CUVIELLO, 747-5161 UTEP women extend win streak to 9 Michael Cuviello five, along with Michelle Pruitt. "Our defense was incredible to The Prospector Sophomore point guard Katia hold them to seven points in the Gallegos had a quiet scoring night third quarter, and about the same The UTEP Miners (14-5,11-3) and had seven turnovers. in the fourth quarter until they swept the Florida International For the Panthers, it was a one- got a few late," Baker said. "Our University (FIU) Panthers (9-9,6-6) woman show, with Thomas scoring defense was really, really good and in both of its games on the road in 27 points on 10 of 15 shooting. we executed down the stretch to pull Miami, Florida, this weekend. On Thomas also pulled down eight away late. Friday night, the Miners took control rebounds. Both teams had turnovers Senior Michelle Pruitt led four late in the third quarter and never issues but the Panthers won that Miners in double figures with 18 let up as UTEP won 76-64. Then dubious award with 21 compared to points and 10 rebounds. Gallegos the following night, UTEP took the Miners 17. Both teams ended up had 17 points, seven assists and five command of the game just before with 32 rebounds. rebounds. Senior Dejanae Roebuck halftime in a comfortable 73-57 In game two of the Conference- had 14 points with three steals and victory. USA matchup, the Panther started Thurman had 11 points. With the two victories, the Miners strong, shooting 66% from the field The Miners shot 50% from the have now won nine straight games, in the first quarter, while the Miners field for the game and an even the most since the 2015-2016 Miners kept pace, shooting just over 54%. better 54% from the 3-point line. that made the National Invitational Sophomore guard Fujita Nimmo Defensively the Miners only allowed Tournament going 29-5. Head paced the Panthers by hitting a six field goals in the second half to Coach Kevin Baker marked another 3-pointer on three straight trips the Panthers and forced 20 turnovers milestone for his career with his down the court as she ended the while only making 10. For the 400th victory as a coach. quarter with 12 points giving FIU a season, the Miners have been strong "It's hard to win in college 22-18 first quarter lead. on the boards and over the last nine basketball. To win nine straight is At the four-minute mark of the games, have not been outrebounded incredible," Baker said. second quarter, the Miners trailed by by an opponent. On Friday, the Miners and 5 points. The Miners then completely "You're always concerned when Panthers were engaged in a fairly shut down the Panther offense, not you go on the road, how tough you tight game in the early going but allowing another score for the rest have to be mentally," Baker said. "The UTEP started off the second quarter of the period. It would become the scoreboard looks like it was an easy with a smothering defense that did Gallegos and Bradshaw show for win, but this was a tough one. I'm not allow a field goal for the first two the remainder of the scoring in the proud of our team and they showed and half minutes. For the period, the quarter as both players would score 4 their toughness." Miners only allowed 10 points total points apiece to give the Miners the The Panthers had three players in and went into the half with a 37-31 Photograph courtesy of UTEP Athletics halftime lead 42-39. double figures, led by Nimmo with lead. Womens basketball UTEP senior center Michelle Pruitt drives hard to the basket The Miners continued its 16. After her hot start in the game, Late in the third quarter of the versus the University of Alabama at Birmingham Feb. 5. aggressive defense in the third the Miners held her to 3 points the game, the Miners led 51-47 and once quarter, only allowing 7 points to rest of the way. Nimmo also got into again shut down the Panthers for the the extraordinary effort from junior shots from the arc. Sophomore guard be scored on 2 of 12 shooting. After foul trouble in the game. final three minutes of the quarter as guard Jissele Thomas who had 13 Isis Lopes led the Miners in scoring three quarters, the Miners led 57­ Returning home this week, the UTEP scored the last 7 points of the points in the quarter. UTEP closed with 22 and was 6-8 from the 3 point 46. UTEP continued its dominance Miners host the Florida Atlantic quarter. UTEP went into the final out the game 76-64. line. Destiny Thurman and Avery of the game in the final quarter, Owls(6-8, 4-6) 7 p.m. on March 19 period with a 58-47 lead. UTEP shot a red-hot 50% from Crouse both had 13 points apiece, stretching the lead to 21 at one point and 2 p.m. March 20 at the Don The Panthers would get no closer the field and a red-hot 65% from the while Alina Erike had 10 points and and ended up winning 73-47. Haskins Center. to 8 points in the quarter even with 3-point line. The Miners hit on 13-20 led the team in rebounding with Michael Cuviello may be reached at [email protected] Men's basketball gets first sweep of year UTEP Softball struggles Michael Cuviello, Danny Lopez 41-29 lead. The Miners closed out UTEP later exploded to take a The Prospector the half with a 41-32 lead. 52-37 lead keyed by holding FIU At the start of the second half, scoreless for five minutes. From this in the season opener The UTEP Miners (10-10, 6-8) junior guard Eric Lovett of FIU point on, the Panthers would get no more strikeouts as the team trailed won both games over the Florida knocked down a 3-point shot to closer than 13 points as the Miners Michael Cuviello, Heriberto Perez 14-0 after two innings. International University(FIU) bring the lead down to 41-35. Boum prevailed in a dominating fashion The Prospector Panthers (9-14, 2-12) this weekend For four innings, the Sooners had responded with a 3-point shot of 75-59. An inexperienced UTEP softball with a 75-59 Friday night and a 77­ a perfect game going with not one his own to put the Miners at a 44-35 team lost all four of its games in the 68 win Saturday. Miner reaching base. Sophomore lead. Miner Invitational played Feb. 11 In game one, the Miners started outfielder Idalis Mendez broke up See Men's Basket page 8 and 12 at Helen of Troy Stadium in off strong on offense racing out to a Oklahoma's perfect game in the fifth El Paso. 6-2 lead after back-to-back 3-point inning with a single up to the middle In the opening game of the shots from junior guard Souley of the field with one out; freshman tournament, the Miners took on the Boum and redshirt sophomore guard Anna Sample also logged the first hit nation's fourth-ranked Oklahoma Keonte Kennedy. of her career after entering the game Sooners. The latter featured three All Moments later, FIU cut the lead as a pinch hitter later in the inning. Americans on its roster, including down to 12-10 after a 3-point shot The Sooners would go on to win one of the best pitchers in the from junior guard Isaiah Banks. The the game 29-0, with the Miners country, senior Giselle Juarez, Panthers went on a 10-2 run and having its worse loss since 2009 coming off injury. Juarez is a two forced three turnovers to take an against Arizona 20-1. UTEP had two time All-American and has allowed 18-14 lead over the Miners. Junior hits for the game in 17 at-bats while only a 150 batting average for reserve guard Christian Agnew got the Sooners had 28 hits, including 13 opponents in her career. UTEP within one after a lay-up to home runs in 44 at-bats. From the opening inning, make it 18-17. Game two versus the Abilene Oklahoma showed why they are one Agnew and redshirt sophomore Christian(ACU)Wildcats would see of the top teams in the nation as the Kristian Sjolund would get the the young Miner bats come alive team went through its first 13 batters Miners scoring rolling as the team early, with junior third baseman before the Miners could secure took a 28-21 lead at the 9:00 mark in Kasey Flores getting her first homer an out. Four of its first six batters the first half. The Miners continued of the year with two outs giving the homered against the Miners, making to find their offensive rhythm as Miners the first lead of the young it an early day for freshman pitcher continuing an 11-0 scoring run with season. Unfortunately, the lead Victoria Salazar. UTEP leading 31-21 at the eight- would be short-lived as the Wildcats The Sooners would go on to minute mark of the first half. would score three runs in the bottom score 13 runs in the first inning, Sjolund continued his hot of the second inning to take a 3-1 including five home runs. UTEP's shooting as he drained another lead. first-inning would not go well 3-point and would go 3-of-3 from The Miners kept it close through offensively as Juarez stuck out the beyond the arc after that shot to give five innings with a three-run side for Oklahoma. After leading off the Miners a 34-24 lead at the five- Bryanna Molina home run that with a home run, the Sooners would minute mark. Before the half, junior Photograph courtesy of UTEP Athletics closed the score to 6-5. For the next only be able to score one run in the guard Jamal Bieniemy knocked down Mens Basketball UTEP junior guard Christian Agnew pushes hard for contact two innings, the Miners could only second inning. The Miners would a 3-point shot to give the Miners a under the basket versus Florida International drawing a foul Feb. 13. once again go three and out with two See Softball page 8 | 8 | SPORTS THEPROSPECTOR FEBRUARY 16, 2021 UTEP soccer closes week with a draw Heriberto Perez opportunities, which we did in the difficult for Utah Valley to break us The Prospector first half," said UTEP Head Coach down. Credit goes to Utah Valley Kathryn Balogun. "We didn't do as because they are a very good team. At its first home game of the well in the second half with that. We They will be one of the best teams season, the Miners (1-2-1) got its need to be able to finish a full game we play this year. We couldn't have season's first victory over New with that sort of thing. But in terms asked for more from the team in Mexico State (NMSU) Aggies 3-1. of not allowing them to capitalize on terms of effort, heart and grit." The three goals from the Miners our mistakes, we did a much better The Wolverines showed more came in the first half of the game. A job this game." offensive effort during the game few weeks ago, NM State defeated The Aggies' only score was at with 13 shots, including seven shots UTEP in the first exhibition game of the 61-minute mark when Megan on goal, in the first half. But in the the season. UTEP also tied against Ormson scored with Emma Smith's second half, each team had just one Utah Valley Saturday after a two- assist. NMSU had control almost all shot on goal. overtime half, but both teams ended the second half, but it wasn't enough It was not until the 72nd minute with a scoreless tie. to score more goals; in the first half, when the Miners fired their first shot On Thursday, the Aggies the Aggies had just three shots on on goal when Carlin sent a shot into controlled the first few minutes of target to seven for UTEP. the top corner, but Utah's goalkeeper the game, but then the Miners got on Emily Parrott, UTEP's starting Isabel Jones-Dawe had her first of the scoreboard at the eighth minute goalkeeper, had two crucial saves in two saves for the match. of the match; Jackie Soto scored her the match. The Aggies came close to At the start of the first overtime, fifth career goal with an assist by Jojo score their second goal, but Parrott UTEP had two shots on goal Ngongo. had a key save just 20 minutes before surrendered to the Wolverines at At the 26-minute mark came the game ended. the beginning of the first overtime the second score for the Miners; "The major thing we had to do period, but the shots were saved by sophomore Tessa Carlin, with a Photograph by Alberto Silva a better job of was the transition Womens soccer UTEP sophomore Ayana Noel fends off a Wolverine player in a Parrott and cleared by the Miner penalty kick, placed the ball in the moments and taking care of the ball defense. Michelle O'Driscoll fired up top right side of the net, passing in our own half," Balogun said. "We defensive battle against Utah Valley Feb. 13. the second shot on goal of the game NMSU goalkeeper Makeena want to possess; we want to build and a pair of corner kicks; the key this scoreless draw. for the Miners at the 100th minute. Gottschalk who failed to reach the and do those things, but (NMSU) The next game for the Miners shot. performance the defense stepping up "It was a really gritty performance capitalized really well on our to fight off 11 shots on goal and six tonight from the team after coming will be 5:30 p.m. when UTEP goes Six minutes later, at the 32', mistakes in the first game. We knew on the road to visit Angelo State, the Miners scored again to make corner kicks by the visitors. off a rivalry game Thursday and a we had to do a better job there." Another outstanding performance quick turnaround to play a good and followed by a game at Lubbock it 3-0 before halftime, as Ngongo On Saturday night, the Miners Christian 1 p.m. Feb. 21. scored her eighth career goal in the was from UTEP's goalkeeper Parrott, Utah Valley team that was coming were held to a scoreless draw against who recorded nine saves in all the in fresh," assistant coach, Stewart Heriberto Perez may be reached at [email protected] 32-minute mark. the Utah Valley Wolverines. The @heriperezlara on Twitter. "'We had to finish our match at University Field. UTEP is Givens said. "I think we defended Miners had just two shots on target now 6-4-1 against Utah Valley after really, really hard and made it

Men's Basket from page 7 Miners went on an 11-point run to Softball from page 7 holding Oklahoma to only one run. coach TJ Hubbard said. "This helped take its first lead of the night with Unfortunately, the Miners could not give the team a measuring stick, what We challenged the guys to come eight minutes left in the game off muster one more run while the add any offense as two strikeouts and they need to work on. We got to get out with unbelievable energy, activity a 3-pointer by Bieniemy. Panther Wildcats were able to score seven a groundout ended the inning three the kids out on the field and see them and great communication," said guard Eric Lovett responded with more on the way to a 13-6 victory. up three down. from an evaluation standpoint. Over UTEP Head Coach Rodney Terry. back-to-back 3 pointers to give FIU For the game, Flores would go 3 In the fourth and fifth innings is half of the roster are either freshmen "You have to have that in playing the lead 54-51 with 7:38 remaining of 4 at the plate and Illena Santos and when Oklahoma was able to take or sophomores. Getting playing against a high-possession team that in the game. Mendes would add two more hits in advantage of the young Miners. time for our young kids was the key will really push the ball in transition The Miners then took control the loss. The pitching struggled once Three straight home runs by the thing.” and communicates getting back with of the game, drawing fouls that again to keep batters off the bases Sooners in the top of the fourth "This biggest thing to me was our guys. I thought we came out with would lead to multiple scoring giving up 18 hits on 37 at-bats. helped spur an eight-run inning. The effort and our passion. We're going really good energy on both ends of opportunities at the free-throw Day two of the tournament saw Sooners added seven more runs in to get punched in the mouth, we're the floor." line. Over the next two minutes, the Miners open against the Wildcats the fifth and final inning to crush going to get kicked and we have to Boum led all Miners in scoring the Miners shut down the Panthers' in a game that featured only two UTEP 21-2 in the last game of the fight through it." once again with 22 points on 8-of-16 shooters and went to the foul line for innings of scoring. The Miners gave day. UTEP hosts the Northern shooting from the field and 5-of-7 eight straight points giving the team up five runs in the second to ACU While the score was lopsided, Colorado Bears for a four-game from the 3-point line. Agnew scored a 59-54 lead. that spurred by a walk and a wild the Miners actually got more hits series 4 p.m. Feb. 19 and 20 at Helen 12 points while shooting 3-of-6 from UTEP would score 18 points in pitch that preceded a grand slam against the Sooners than Oklahoma of Troy Stadium in El Paso. The the field and Kennedy had 17 points the final eight minutes off 20 free home run from Wildcat Callie Burris had given up in the three previous Bears have yet to play a game this while shooting 7-of-10 from the field throw attempts due to getting the that broke the score open with a 5-0 games combined. While the results season. and shooting 2-of-4 from the 3-point Panthers in the bonus so early in the lead. did not look good on the field these Michael Cuviello and Heriberto Perez may be reached at [email protected] line. half. The Miners went on to a 77-68 From this point on, the Miners were akin to exhibition games for an As a team, the Miners shot 49% victory over the Panthers to secure could get no spark on offense with incredibly young Miner team that from the field goal and 50% from the the sweep. four hits on the day. The Wildcats has not faced live competition since 3-point line. Defensively, the Miners "We didn't play great in the scored one more run in the sixth last season. held FIU to 43% shooting and forced first half," Terry said. "We had 11 inning to make the final margin "Our younger kids learned what it 16 turnovers for the night. turnovers; that was a big part of that. 6-0. Junior Pate Cathey had two takes to compete at this level," UTEP In the second matchup of the I thought we came out in the second of the four hits for the Miners and weekend, the Panthers came with half and put it on our defense. We're sophomore Zaylie Calderon pitched more intensity, especially early in the going to have to guard and work a strong four innings for the Miners game. Leading for the entire first half the game and I thought our guys in the loss. of the contest, the Panthers scored did that. We did a much better job In the tournament's final game for the first six points of the game as the attacking and advancing the ball up the Miners, it once again faced off Miners went scoreless for the first the floor." with the Oklahoma Sooners and its five minutes of the opening half. Neither team shot very well on murder's row of hitters. The Sooners The Miners shot a poor 33% for the night, with UTEP shooting had scored 49 runs through its first the first half, along with 10 costly 40% and FIU shooting 41% overall. three games while not giving up a turnovers that kept the team from The game's real difference was the single run. Sooner pitching had been getting into a scoring rhythm. Miners' ability to get to the free- dominant, only giving up four hits in Four 3-pointers in the half were a throw line, with UTEP getting there three games. significant reason the Miners were 39 times on the night. This is the UTEP quickly fell behind the able to stay in the game early, along most times the Miners have made Sooners on a three-run homer in with a still solid defense that kept the it to the foul line since the season the first inning, while the Miners Panthers only shooting 43% for the opener three seasons ago versus could only get a base runner on a half. At the half, the Miners trailed the University of Texas at Permian- walk to start its initial at-bats. The 37-30. Basin. Sooners added another two runs in For the first eight minutes of the Boum made a living at the free- the second after a walk and a batter second half, FIU maintained an throw line with 15 made shots on 17 hit by a pitch put runners in scoring eight-point lead over the Miners attempts. On the night, Boum led the position for Oklahoma. keyed by six Miner turnovers. These team with 27 points, five assists and Mendez, who broke up the perfect would be the last turnovers of the three steals while playing the whole game the previous day, came away night for the Miners. Over the last game. Agnew came off the bench to in the second for another hit versus 12 minutes of the game, the Miners, have another strong game with 17 Oklahoma. UTEP advanced the who struggled taking care of the points while shooting 8-10 from the runners on a sacrifice bunt with ball all night with 17 in the first free-throw line. sophomore catcher Karina Somoza 28 minutes, played mistake-free UTEP goes on the road to take on hitting a two-out two-run single to basketball. UTEP was also was able the Florida Atlantic Owls (8-9, 3-5) put up the weekend's first points for to force FIU into the bonus at around next weekend in Miami for a back- any team against Oklahoma. Photograph by Michael Cuviello the same point to put extra pressure to-back series. After two innings, the Miners Softball Freshman pitcher Victoria Salazar throws the first pitch of the season for on the Panther defense. Michael Cuviello and Danny Lopez may be reached at [email protected] were only down 5-2. The Miners the UTEP Miners in a matchup with fourth-ranked Oklahoma Feb. 11. Over the next three minutes, the held firm in the third inning,