A single’s guide to Valentine’s Day alone Coping with ‘Singles Awareness Day’ and other self-involved activities
Another Comic Book Movie?
PAGE 3
Freshman single treats unicorn pillow pet to sparkling grape juice and sherbert while she mourns her inevitable relationship status
by CHRISTINA BOOTHE sports reporter
U
nfortunately, not all of us can have a date on Valentine’s Day. Because of this, many of us will be spending it alone in various venues, experiencing a plethora of emotions together as a giant mass of painfully single Islanders. But fear not fellow solitaries: before you go around quoting President Snow from “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, “Oh, look, they’re holding hands… I want them dead,” just know that your friendly staff here at the Island Waves has made an effort to make this Feb. 14 more bearable for you. Dare, I say, even fun.
BUILD-A-BEAR – For those who haven’t thoroughly dissected the La Palmera shopping mall just off SPID, on the second story, just next to the Great American Cookie Company, sits the beacon of every little girl’s dream: Build-A-Bear. Inside, you will find a collection of adorable plush bears and a few other animals, including a rendition of Bevo, the mascot for the Texas Longhorns. From there, you can choose your bear and stuff it full of cotton love, put a heart in its chest, and make it the girlfriend/boyfriend you don’t have by dressing it accordingly. You might put a Texas Rangers uniform on it and dream of having a baseball boyfriend, or put a wedding dress on it and dream of being a future bride. Regardless, Build-A-Bear is the
photo by Christina Boothe
perfect place to go to live out your fantasies of finding the perfect significant other by creating a bear that reminds you of them. MOVIE NIGHT – Sometimes, the best option is to just stay in. And with the millions of movies available through Redbox, iTunes and Netflix, you can make an evening of solitude quite pleasant. Classic Valentine’s movies include films such as “The Notebook,” “Safe Haven,” and pretty much any other Nicholas Sparks movie. If you’re looking to cry to the point of sounding like a dying narwhal, “P.S. I Love You,” is the movie you want to watch.
“The Lego Movie” Review
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see A Single’s Guide on pg 5
New developments on Momentum Campus housing by CONNOR TICHOTA news editor
O
n Jan. 30 the Texas A&M Board of Regents announced its approval of plans submitted by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi for new housing on the Momentum Campus. A designated seven acres of Ennis Joslin Road will be utilized by the American Campus
Communities, the project developer, to create enough housing for approximately 350 to 500 students. According to Dr. Amanda Drum, executive director of Strategic Engagement Initiatives at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, the housing that will be provided will be apartment style housing. These apartments will most likely appeal to the upper division and graduate students. However, at this time there are no
restrictions that prevent any level of student from residing in the new housing. Furthermore, the new housing will not disrupt the current policies. For instance, freshmen will not be required to live on campus, and financial aid will still be applicable to the new housing.
Selfies with Student athletes
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see Momentum on pg 4
HAPPY HOUR
•food•free wifi• HALF OFF FROZEN FRAPS | 3-5 PM EVERY DAY •3 local shops•
INDEX EDITORIAL 2 | NEWS 4 | FEATURES 5 | ENTERTAINMENT 8 | SPORTS 10 | VISUALS 12
VOLUME 25, ISSUE 04
2
editorial
02.13.2014
ISLAND WAVES
a student publication of
Backtime arrival to TAMU-CC campus
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
island waves staff ALEXIS DE LEON editor-in-chief
STEPHANIE WALLACE managing editor
MARIAM AMAYA
advertising manager
AUBREY DANCER layout editor
KATHLEEN RAMIREZ features editor
CONNER TICHOTA news editor
JUSTIN VU NGUYEN
advertising assistant
CHRISTINA BOOTHE ANDREW LIGUEZ BERNARD SEAL III
a letter to the editor by RUTH AIPPERSPACH faculty advisor
O
n any given morning Monday through Thursday between 7:40 a.m. and 10:40 a.m., it is usual to see at least 14- 16 vehicles making a left hand turn onto Ennis Joslin Road from the access road or exiting the freeway. Similarly, almost as many vehicles exit South Padre Island Drive on to the access road coming from the Padre Island/Flour Bluff area to make a right hand turn onto Ennis Joslin. Most of these vehicles are University bound and have 15 to 20 minutes to get from that intersection to a parking slot somewhere on campus for a class that meets at the top of the hour, or one that begins at thirty-after the
hour. Wishful thinking that there will always be that one slot available and close to the building to make it to class on time. Really? Oh yes. There is the inevitable “beginning of semester” accident on the bridge over the Oso that can slow traffic even more to a halt, or a crawl. By the time a student drives around a parking lot multiple times hoping for that one parking slot close to the building, time is wasted and parking further away is the only option. Then it is a walk/run/jog to class unless you are willing to park in the Parking Garage and pay a fee on a regular basis. There is nothing more aggravating for a professor than to have students walk in five, 10, or even 15 minutes late and ask “What have I missed so far?”
It’s the beginning of a new semester, so in order to be early- backtime. What is that? The term was first used by radio and television personnel timing the length of all commercials, public service announcements, station breaks, and/ or music, in a newscast from the back forward to help ensure that they end on time before joining a network program. In other words, calculate how much time is needed to broadcast the event and subtract from when to join the network for a smooth transition to a new program. Backtiming is a positive guideline for punctuality. I use it all the time and it saves the stress of wondering ‘will I make it in time?’ Work backwards with this suggested guide: (1) how long does it take
to drive to campus and find parking from the point of origination? For bus riders, how long is the bus ride from point of origination? Does it mean riding a bus earlier than originally scheduled? (2) Calculate how much time it takes to get up in the morning and get ready for the day (Did I hear a groan?). (3) How much time is needed to eat a reasonable breakfast? Total up the time and backtime the amount needed to leave the apartment or residence. Allow for any minor accidents that could occur en route. For students who live in campus housing, calculate the minutes needed to walk to the first class of the day. Practice backtiming and be punctual. Be relaxed and eager for that first class. Get the best seat in the classroom
photo courtesy tamucc.edu
faculty advisor Ruth Aipperspach
and make the professor happy. Backtime and avoid a tardy or absence. Have a great semester.
staff reporters
Letter from the editor
NICK THOMSON
distribution manager
RUTH AIPPERSPACH faculty adviser
AMY KOTULSKI staff adviser
Dear Island University,
F contact us 6300 Ocean Drive Unit 5783 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 825-5862
write us a letter The Island Waves accepts letters no longer than 250 words. Letters are subject to editing. Send letters to the editor via email at editor@tamucc.edu.
about island waves The Island Waves is a student-produced publication at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. The newspaper is printed weekly, except during summer sessions. Since A&M-Corpus Christi has no journalism department, Island Waves is supported by student fees and advertising sales. Any student or University employee may submit material for publication consideration. To become a contributor, email or call the Island Waves editor.
ebruary is already upon us, bringing with it one of the most superfluously expensive holidays. Here at Island Waves, we aren’t necessarily against the holiday in any way, we just wanted to highlight the importance of selflove. Loving yourself can take many forms, anywhere from exercising regularly to getting enough sleep every night. We recommend treating yourself to that cake pop you have been craving all week or those new Jordans everyone has been talking about. In Corpus Christi, we rarely receive a day off for rain (million year droughts), not sure if there has ever been a snow day and I’m fairly certain the world would have to literally be on fire to receive a day off for a heat wave. While I would never condone missing a day of school, I do believe in the very occasional mental health day. Finally, we received a letter to the editor, as printed above, about students timing their trip to school more accurately so as to speed less. I agree that in order to make it on time anywhere one must take into account the amount of time it takes for travel as well as the sometimes obscene amount of time it takes to find a spot to park on campus. I think we all set our alarms with the intention of waking up exactly at that moment, getting dressed and driving to campus with a jolly expression on our faces. However more often than not (at least for myself) I find myself hitting snooze, then realizing if I leave my house, which is 30 minutes from campus, 20 minutes before class starts I’m going to be in big trouble and have furious road rage. By luck of the Heavens I have never been in any of the billion-car pileups I witness quite frequently en route to campus. The next time the alarm clock warns of another tardy, take a breath, get dressed and get on the road. A tardy is better than an accident and while the professor might add grief to the situation, use that as fuel for the next morning. With V-day almost upon us, and the weather being what it is, I want to quote the wise Bill Withers and end with this, “ Sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow, but if we are wise we know that there’s always tomorrow.” Sincerely, Alexis De Leon Editor-in-Chief Island Waves
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opinion
02.13.2014
ISLAND WAVES
photo illustration by AUBREY DANCER
by AUBREY DANCER layout editor
L
et’s be honest, superhero movies aren’t exactly a new concept in Hollywood, are they? Ever since the first Superman and Batman movie serials in the 1930s and 40s, moviegoers have been watching these caped crime fighters battle the forces of evil and I must confess that some of my favorite films of the last 10 years
have been ones based off of comic book heroes. I loved “The Avengers,” “Iron Man,” and dug the heck out of “The Dark Knight,” (despite some issues) and I honestly think that you can take a comic book hero and make a well-developed story for cinema. Hell, I still get some chills whenever I see teaser trailers online for the second “Amazing Spider-Man.” But as 2014 began and a new lineup of comic book-based films was announced, I started to feel something deep down inside me. Something I have been battling with for a
Find out what your fees are paying for by attending the Student Tuition and Fee Hearing! Friday, February 14th at noon in the UC Commons.
while but only now have realized, a complete sense of utter exhaustion and frustration. Years ago when I was but a wee nerd, I used to get excited at the news of a new comic book film coming out. The promise of seeing my favorite heroes battling my favorite villains in a climactic struggle to save the world filled me with high levels of glee and giddiness. Heck, I thought “The Shadow,” was the coolest film ever and, sadly, I still do. It’s a guilty pleasure. Now, in my mid 20s, I simply groan and hold my palm to my face, amazed and astounded that they had either made yet another sequel to an already waning franchise or managed to scrape to the bottom of the barrel and dish up an unknown franchise to throw at the screen for some quick cash. I find myself wondering ‘how much further can Hollywood go?’ Can they really keep making movies based on comic books for the next decade? Don’t get me wrong, as a guy who worked on films for nearly two years, I understand why they make these kinds of movies: it’s easy money. Film studios can rest easier knowing that there is an already well-established fan base for their product than something that they are just introducing for the first time. They know that with the right amount of marketing and A-list actors, they can convince millions of people to watch what might just very well be a complete turd. I don’t have to remind most folks about “Batman and Robin,” the one movie that almost single-handedly made it impossible for any comic book movie to ever be made again. And yet, each time these films manage to rake in massive amounts of cash at the box
office, despite poor reviews and overall terrible quality. But I do give credit to Marvel and Disney for creating the movie formula that garnered them great success with the “Avengers,” and all of the heroes’ solo films leading to it. Even DC is struggling to get its films to land with the announcement of the “Batman vs. Superman,” movie following the success of “Man of Steel,” which I still feel is a terrible film (but that’s for another rant). So to sum up a rant that probably went on for way too long, comic book films are the new “cool thing” in films. Everyone’s making them and all the cool kids want to go see them, which is ironic as I used to be thrown in my locker if I ever confessed to liking any comic books as a kid. And it’s easy to see why studios want to make them: to serve to the lowest common denominator and make big money really really fast. And despite all of my problems with them, I still like the prospect of comic book films being released. Well, at least the law of averages stating that out of all of them one of them has to be good, right? But in the end how long will it be before the “regular filmgoers” (whatever that means) become tired of seeing these films taking up space at their theater and will there ever return a time when Hollywood took chances and put out films that were original and not based off of what is already printed on the pages of a comic book or graphic novel? Probably not. But hey, at least we can look forward to that live-action Blondie and Dagwood film right? Oh give it time and I’m sure it’ll happen eventually.
news 4
02.13.2014
ISLAND WAVES
MOMENTUM continued from PAGE 1 “At this time we do not have a requirement. We of course want our freshmen on the island,” said Drum, “We have evidence that supports that students living on campus in their first year are more successful in college.” According to Drum, the apartments will be priced appropriately for the floor plans created, and will be competitive. Other amenities have yet to be announced. It is known, however, that a dining hall is not, at this time, in the Momentum Campus master plan. Therefore, if students living at Momentum Campus would like on-campus dining, they will have to
utilize the various food suppliers on the main campus until another option is presented. As previously stated, policies are not scheduled to change, and students living on Momentum Campus may, but will not be required to, buy a meal plan. These plans for new housing have been in the works for some time. According to the Corpus Christi Caller Times, in 2007 the Island University was faced with capping its student population at 10,000 students due to the limited space on the 240 acres of Ward Island that the main campus currently sits on. The city of Corpus Christi donated 137 acres at the intersection of Nile Drive and Ennis Joslin Road, the area now known as Momentum Campus. This new campus enabled the University to
expand and increase its maximum capacity up to approximately 16,000 students. With the new campus, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi created a master plan, allocating space for the sports complex, housing and research facilities. American Campus Communities will be the official developer of this project, rather than Camden Miramar. According to Richard Whatcott, the community manager of Camden Miramar, Camden was given the opportunity to be the developer, but opted out. “We decided we wanted to put all of our focus on the Island Campus,” said Whatcott, “We’re making sure that we are meeting the needs of, primarily, freshmen at the on-campus communities instead of the Momentum Campus.”
Whatcott added that Camden Miramar would focus on completing construction on the new residence halls and renovating the older ones located off the Island Campus. “The Momentum Campus housing will be a wonderful next step for students,” said Drum, “They will still be on-campus and receive those benefits. I think our students are going to really like the new housing.” The Momentum Campus Housing is scheduled to be completed by the summer of 2015. For more information regarding the master plan for Momentum Campus, please visit tamucc.edu.
Debate on Harbor Bridge continues by CONNER TICHOTA news reporter
O
n Feb. 18 there will be a Public Hearing held at the Solomon Ortiz Center regarding plans for the Harbor Bridge Project. The public hearing, set for 5 P.M, will be marked as one of the last events before the Public Comments period of the project will be closed on March 3. The hearing will begin with an open house, allowing people to view project exhibits and ask questions regarding the project. Following the open house, a formal presentation will be held. The Harbor Bridge Project was first proposed in 2005 and has been open to public suggestion since 2011. The project, led by the Texas Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Association, intends to replace the current bridge and reconstruct parts of the connecting highways. There are four proposed plans, including a ‘no-build’ alternative. The limits of the project stretch from US 181 and Beach Ave., to the Crosstown Expressway and Morgan Ave. According to the Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge
Project official proposal report, the project was initiated due to a variety of transportation and structural needs. There are numerous structural flaws with the historical bridge, erected in 1959. After a Bridge Condition Survey conducted in 2008, it was noted that there were several areas severely damaged by rust, missing bolts and leaking joints. These were just a few of the numerous structural issues affecting the Harbor Bridge. Furthermore, the bridge is not structurally adept to hold a high volume of traffic, especially during emergencies such as a hurricane evacuation. The Harbor Bridge Project has been an ongoing source of controversy for local Corpus Christi residents for several years. According to life-long Corpus Christi resident and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi graduate Rebecca Lyons, there are several concerns about the type of impact the project will have. “ I am wary most of all. I am what many may call an ‘environmentalist’,” said Lyons in an e-mail, “I care about how this project will impact the environment. I can’t say I support the bridge until the Environmental Impact Statement is released to the public. “
An EIS report was recently released in Dec. 2013 by the Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge Project Website. According to this report, all four of the plans for replacing the bridge will cause displacement of certain commercial areas, residential areas and even public parks. Lyons also added that she is concerned about the displacement of residences in the surrounding areas. According to reports from the Corpus Christi Caller Times, areas on the Northside of Corpus Christi will be severely economically affected by the reconstruction. For example, the public housing complex, N.D. Leathers, houses nearly 23 percent of residents of the Hillcrest and WashingtonColes neighborhoods. However, residents will have to relocate due to the reconstruction, and as for the complex, which has been in place since 1941, the plan is probable demolition. “I’ve gone block walking before to the residences on this side of town,” said Lyons, “All of the people I spoke to always said that they would never be given enough money to move. This does not mean that they won’t be given enough money to move…but would it really be enough for you to leave your home, where you probably hold many memories?”
Lyons graduated from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in 2011 with undergraduate degrees in English and History. She is currently a high school teacher. Lyons has volunteered with the Downtown Management District and sat on the Clean City Committee Board. “I know most [people] don’t think twice about the impact of these types of things,” said Lyons, “They look at the ends instead of the means, and they need to realize that these things impact someone, even if it isn’t ourselves directly.” The project report lists, in detail, all of the aspects of the four different plans for the repair or reconstruction of the Harbor Bridge. The resulting issues described above are all effects of the proposed ‘Red’ plan, the preferred plan for the replacement of the Harbor Bridge. A final decision for the official plan is expected in the fall of 2014, and construction is anticipated to begin in the summer of 2015. For more information regarding the Harbor Bridge Project, its alternative plans, or information about the upcoming public events, please visit ccharborbridgeproject.com.
photo courtesy of CORPUSCHRISTI1ST.COM
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features
02.13.2014
ISLAND WAVES
A SINGLE’S GUIDE continued from PAGE 1 If you’re hoping for some comedic relief with still a touch of romance, the classic comedies “The Princess Bride,” or “50 First Dates,” are hilarious selections. If you prefer a less mainstream film, selections such as “Never Let Me Go,” or “Like Crazy,” are excellent choices. Grab some extra buttery popcorn and a glass of wine (or sparkling grape juice if you’re under twenty-one), and enjoy the night of privacy.
by KATHLEEN RAMIREZ features editor
A
re you tired of sappy love songs, handholding and cheesy pickup lines? Have a deep loathing for all things pink and heartshaped? Or just plain broken-hearted and bitter? Then look no further. In honor of Singles Awareness Day, here are a few ideas to help bring out the very best cynic inside of anyone. #1-Cards What better way to show you care than by making those closest to you feel as miserable as youself. The saying, “misery loves company,” has never been more true with these cards, which are available at etsy.com. Use them to remind your strictly platonic loved ones just how much you despise the holiday. #2-Food Use your newfound (or maybe not-so-new) singleness to eat until your heart’s content. Among the list of must-haves: anything with a skewer stuck through it, broken heart-shaped cookies, or anything with onions or garlic, because let’s face it you don’t have anyone to impress anymore. Visit sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/ articles/948865/a-full-anti-valentines-daymenu for a recipe for “Shot through the heart meatball skewers.” #3-Decorations For decorations, try bringing the gloom by sticking it to Cupid and defacing all things pink and heart-shaped. Try spray-painting pink hearts black or mark them with a giant black “X” or phrases like “Love Sucks.” For even more anti-Valentine’s Day fun, why not adorn your table with wilted flowers, cactuses or roses with the thorns left on. The prickly beauties will serve as a constant reminder of the pain you wish you could inflect on your ex every time you touch them. #4-Fun and Games If you and your friends are all single, why not spread the anti-love and hold a contest for the best “Getting Dumped” story. You can also participate in some voodoo doll therapy or some anger management piñata smashing. Still bitter about your recent break-up? Well, have here is an activity for you. In memory of your cheating ex,
STARGAZING – One of the many positives to living near an uninhabited beach is the amount of breathtaking stars in the sky at night. This Valentine’s Day, take advantage of the observation deck in the National Seashore’s guest center. The stars are numerous and beautiful, and several constellations are clearly visible. In the event that February the 14 is a clear and semi-warm night, take up some refreshments and a book or some music and head up to the deck to check out two of the most beautiful attributes this city has to offer – stars and sunsets.
BAKING – as a final and very fun alternative, get your baking pans out and make a cake. Nothing brings more cheer than a delicious, moist yellow cake smothered in cream cheese icing. Decorate it with some of your favorite toppings, like sprinkles, strawberries, or even various types of cookies and candies. Share the cake with your friends or eat it all by yourself – no one will be judging. Just do your best to enjoy this holiday despite the loneliness that is often associated with it. Remember: your worth is not determined by a significant other. So even though you may
be feeling just a little bit alone and down on yourself on Valentine’s Day, remember that you’re spectacular, and one day, your perfect person will see that too and fall in love with you. Don’t let this day get you down, celebrate for the future. Celebrate for now. In the words of Taylor Swift, be “happy, free, confused, and lonely at the same time.” Be “miserable and magical.” But most of all, be you. And don’t let anyone else make you feel less special for being uniquely beautiful. Happy Valentine’s Day. Why don’t you just love you today?
First, take your little sister’s favorite stuffed animal. Second, find a knife suitable to your liking. And lastly, stab said knife right through said stuffed toy’s back. Repeat as necessary. #5 Presents This Hallmark card holiday is the perfect time to show all those people you don’t like just how deep your loathing is. Instead of giving out flowers, how about handing out cactuses or wilted flowers to people you don’t like. You can also use this day to shower yourself with love by going dog shopping, because unlike humans, dogs will never leave you. #6 Music Radio music too depressing for you? Use this holiday as the opportunity to add a new playlist to your iPod. Here are a few songs to get you started. •
Cee-Lo Green- “F*ck You”
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Taylor Swift- “We are Never Getting Back Together”
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Gotye- “Somebody That I Used to Know”
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Nancy Sinatra- “These Boots are Made for Walkin’ ”
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J. Geils Band- “Love Stinks”
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Guns N’ Roses- “Used to Love Her”
#7 TV Contrary to popular belief, the best way to get over someone is not by moving on. The best way to feel better about a break-up is to watch other people break-up. Cue the divorce court shows and break-up movies. Finish your evening off by watching a marathon of divorce court and movies all about unrequited love to help you come to terms with being single. •
“The Break-Up” (2006)
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“500 Days of Summer” (2009)
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“Edward Scissorhands” (1990)
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“Titanic” (1997)
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“Blue Valentine” (2011)
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“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004)
Valentine’s Day card created by BuckandLibby available on etsy.com
features 6
02.13.2014
ISLAND WAVES
by KATHLEEN RAMIREZ features editor
F
or those of you who’ve never had a bunny, here is something you need to know. Bunnies are the ultimate escape artists. They have the methodical tenacity of a velociraptor,
the inflexible stubbornness of a mule and the calculated slyness of a fox. No matter how well you think you’ve got them penned up, they always manage to escape. No matter how well you think you’ve bunny-proofed the corner with all the wires and cords, they will always find a way out. Last week, I rearranged Jojo’s pen to make
room for his doghouse, which he has been using a lot lately. In the process, I used Pilot’s cage and cardboard boxes to pen him up on one side. I thought the boxes were strong enough to keep him in, turns out I was wrong. It didn’t take Jojo long to discover that if he pushed hard enough, he could move the box out of his way and hop on out. The incident occurred after I had already put the bunnies up for bed. I was sitting on the couch watching TV when all of a sudden, I saw Jojo hopping around the living room for a bit before deciding to lay down near the window. I have never seen a bunny look so pleased with himself as Jojo did that night. This isn’t the first time Jojo has escaped his pen. Last year, I had an issue with unexplained poo pellets being around to greet me when I came home from work and school. I typically
keep the bunnies penned up when I’m not home, and I vacuum up whatever stray poo is left over at the end of the day before going to bed. For about four days though, every time I came home there was some poo thrown about. I couldn’t figure out what bunny was escaping or how they were, since no one tried escaping whenever I was home. It wasn’t until one afternoon when I came home early and found Jojo out and about, hopping around like he owned the place. Apparently, this little bunny was escaping from his pen whenever I left my apartment by jumping over the boxes. He would then proceed to spend the day hopping around until I got home.
by KATHLEEN RAMIREZ features editor
Depending on your art skills, for this next step, you can either draw out various superhero symbols on a separate piece of paper or print off a list of premade symbols from rockinboys. com/super-hero-valentines-day-printable. Step #4 Write out various superhero or Valentinethemed messages on another piece of paper. You can also print out a premade list of messages from lessordinarydesigns.blogspot. com/2012/01/free-printables-super-valentine. html. Step #5 Once everything is cut out, you’re ready to assemble your superhero lollipops. Step #6 Glue your premade or homemade superhero symbols onto the capes. Using the hole puncher, punch a hole in the middle top of each cape, and slide the lollipops through the hole. Step #7 Punch a hole on the top and bottom of each message, and slide the lollipops through the holes. Step #8 Glue the masks onto each lollipop, and víóla, you’re all done. You can also modify your superheroes in whatever way you please. I tied a piece of ribbon under the capes on mine, and also colored in the eyes on the masks.
S
trapped for cash this Valentine’s Day? Here is one easy-to-make Valentine gift idea that will keep you from breaking the bank this year. *Note: This idea was inspired by a post found on Pinterest, with a few modifications of my own. Superhero Valentines Supplies: -Lollipops of your choosing (I chose Tootsie Roll Pops) -Construction paper (You could also use regular copy paper and just color it in) -Elmer’s Glue or tape (You could also use a hot glue gun if you happen to have one) -Scissors -Pen or pencil -Something to make a template out of (I used an index card) -Hole puncher Step #1 Start by drawing a cape and mask on the index card, and cut them out. They will be the templates you will use on the construction paper. Step #2 Using the template you cut out, trace however many capes and masks you will need for your Valentines on the construction paper or regular copy paper. Step #3
Island Waves: lonely hearts’ club playlist “We Have All the Time in the World”- Louis Armstrong “Single Ladies”- Beyoncé “All By Myself”- Celine Dion “Young and Beautiful”- Lana Del Ray “This Love”- Maroon 5 “Accidentally in Love” - Counting Crows “One of Those Nights” - Tim McGraw “Mirrors”- Justin Timberlake “Lovesong”- Adele “Who You Love”- John Mayer “Solitary Thinkin’ “- Lee Ann Womack “Michelle” - the Beatles “Every Rose Has Its Thorn”- Poison “Hellhole Ratrace”- Girls “Thirteen”- Ben Kweller “Nothing Came Out”- the Moldy Peaches “Dig Up Her Bones”- Misfits “Gives You Hell”- All-American Rejects “1000 Good Intentions”- Rise Against “Such Great Heights”- the Postal Service “Interlude: Moving On”- Paramore “Banana Pancakes”- Jack Johnson “Haven’t Met You Yet”- Michael Bublé “Stay Stay Stay”- Taylor Swift “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom- Selena
02.13.2014
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ads
ISLAND WAVES
entertainment 8
02.13.2014
ISLAND WAVES
by STEPHANIE WALLACE managing editor
V
alentine’s Day is here. Some guys and gals will be out romancing their significant other, others will be with their best friends doing what college students do best: drink coffee (what did you think I was going to say?). Others will be shooting hateful looks at all of the above. Me? I will be spending this lovely Valentine’s Day with my awesome Editor-inChief, and reading, of course. So for those “Anti-Valentines day” folks, or those who think it is just a mass marketed day
to spend money, or even those happily in love, my book review this week is one that takes on a deeper meaning. I am no stranger to the military. My grandfather served in World War II, I have three brothers who have graduated from West Point Academy and spent months in Iraq and Afghanistan and a sister who is in the Air Force. Most importantly, I have a father overseas, who deals with the ins and outs of war on a daily basis. So, “Code Name Verity,” by Elizabeth Wein really hits home. This is a novel set in World War II, with two female pilots (also best friends) who crash land in Nazi occupied France. One gets captured and
tells her story in a series of journal entries to the Kommandant who is holding her captive, before she ultimately is supposed to be executed. The story that evolves is one that no one expects, and one that tests the limits of the human psyche. Not much of a Valentine’s Day book you might say. Well, this one calls to mind the love of family, friendships, best friendships and patriotism in ways that would make St. Valentine proud. It is about the love of a best friend and the love one has for themselves above all, that makes one a great asset to their country. As Valentine’s Day begins and comes to an eventual end, it is easy to get caught up in the hype of it all, the idea of grand romantic gestures and things that only seem to happen
once a year. But, as “Code Name Verity,” reminds us, it is also just as important to love yourself and those around you, and your country not just one day, but everyday. This is done in the novel by staring down and taunting the enemy, but if you would rather take a less hands on approach and go the graceful route, by all means. Be it a bad score on a test, a loss in a sports event, a breakup, a loss of a friendship or even the loss of a loved one, “Verity” shows that even through all the turmoil of being in a war and being a prisoner to it, and to the greater whole, a prisoner to society and what it expects of you (like women should not fly, for instance, in the Royal Air Force in “Verity”), it is still just as important to hold fast to your ambitions and not lose sight of what is really important to you.
images courtesy of NOCOOKIE.NET, GIGGLESGOBBLESANDGULPS.COM
by ANDREW LIGUEZ entertainment reporter
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very once in a while a movie comes out that captures the minds and hearts of everyone that watches it. I can say for a fact that this movie is darn close to that goal. Other than the fact that it is a huge Lego commercial, it is one of the better movies I have seen so far this year. The premise of this movie is that even though you are ordinary, you can be awesome as well. The plot of the movie is pretty simple, Emmet an ordinary Lego figure is thought to be the prophesied “Special” that will save the Lego
world from the evil Lord Business. Through adventures, he gains friends that are master builders, figures that are able to build anything they desire without the use of a manual. Through their combined efforts, along with other characters, they are able to beat Lord Business from gluing the world to stop using the weapon Kragle. Through the adventures we learn that anyone can be special and that you shouldn’t be afraid to let your creativity show and use it to empower you. The movie also has other good themes of friendship, like when all the master builders come together and create a way to escape the evildoers from taking them into custody
to be kept from saving the world. Rising to the occasion is another big theme, as Emmet is chosen out of the blue to be the Special. He rises to the occasion and battles the evil of the world to save it from being frozen. The graphics that are in the movie are top notch. It’s even so good that the Lego figures can even make faces of emotion. The entire world of the Lego movie is incredibly made and shows you how far the graphics have come along the past few years. Even when mixed with real world objects, the world still somehow goes together to blend into one scene. The voices that are cast for the movie are
also good, with huge names like Morgan Freeman and Will Ferrell having starring roles in the movie. The entire cast in the movie works incredibly well when they are all together. The few songs played during the movie are also awesome, and artfully made to blend with the feature. At the end of the movie, as expected, the world is saved and everyone once again becomes friends, well at least until the sequel. The Lego Movie premiered on Feb 7, and I recommend seeing this film where everything is indeed awesome.
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02.13.2014
ISLAND WAVES
Interview with head men’s basketball coach Willis Wilson
by Christina Boothe sports reporter
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he basketball season is underway, and hopes are high for Texas A&M University– Corpus Christi’s teams, especially the men’s team. With twenty-three games played this year and a winning percentage of .435, the Islander’s March Madness dream is quite possibly an attainable spot on the horizon. In the midst of this busy season, Head Coach of Islander Men’s Basketball Willis Wilson sat down to answer some questions about his team, its members, and what it’s going to take to make it to the NCAA Tournament. 1. What is the key to maintaining your strong play so far this season? Wilson: The biggest thing for our team is to emphasize the little things and keep our focus narrow. If we start thinking about having a successful season, or even having a successful game, rather than looking at success on a play-to-play or minute-tominute basis, we can get into trouble. We’ve emphasized to our players to keep their focus on the process, and if they can do that, we can have a successful season. 2. When looking back at last year, what is the biggest difference that has led to more
success this season? Wilson: The key word is trust. Trust in the coaches, trust in the system, trust in each other and trust in ourselves. Now that we are embracing the concept of trust, we are achieving great things as a basketball team. In the past, we had a tendency to come apart when we faced adversity, but this year we are doing a much better job of coming together when things go wrong. We also have had a lot of players embrace their roles and not try to do too much. 3. In 2007, the Islanders made it to the NCAA Tournament, and got knocked out in the first round by number 2 seed Wisconsin. Should a similar matchup happen, do you believe your team is physically and emotionally prepared to come out victorious this time around? Wilson: Well, first things first, in order to make the NCAA Tournament, we need to win the Southland Conference Tournament. And in order to win the Southland Tournament, we need to make it there first. That’s something we haven’t done in a few years. Again, we need to focus on every possession, every game in order to have success. But we’ve played some top-25 teams already this year in Iowa State and Oklahoma, so we have experience
Did someone say Sochi? What to expect from the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia
by Christina Boothe sports reporter
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he arctic fronts have been hitting this little island hard, sending students scurrying to and from class bundled in the warmest clothes they can scrounge up –jeans, boots, and scarves have replaced shorts and tieback bikinis under tank tops. But, the temperatures in Corpus Christi are nothing compared to the snow-covered Sochi, Russia. There, parkas have taken precedence in fashion, along with skin-tight body suits and boots that resemble those worn by Star Wars characters when they visited Hoth. But have sympathy and take heart, dear readers. For, despite the loss of fashion sense, a very exciting event is happening in Sochi, Russia – something that starts with an O and ends with an S and something that I’m not allowed to fully type unless I want to be slapped in the face with a massive copyright lawsuit (ironic, right? Because didn’t these events originate in ancient Greece? Is there anyone still breathing from ancient Greece who would be offended by having the O-word printed?). Regardless, the O-word, which shall be forever more referred to in a nonspecific manner as the Winter Games, are now underway in Sochi. They started on Feb. 6 leading off with some of their most popular sports, such as figure skating, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding. These qualification rounds were the only events that occurred on day one. On Feb. 7, the opening ceremonies signaled the official beginning of the Winter Games. From there, the events took off, with victory ceremonies every night until Feb. 23, when the 2014 Games come to an official close. Popular athletes such as Shaun White and Lolo Jones will make an appearance, along with some fresh new faces determined to make a name for themselves. Among them is eighteen-year old Tucker West, a freshman at Union College and the youngest person to ever be apart of the U.S. men’s luge team. Also debuting is nineteen-year old Sarah Hendrickson, a member of the U.S. women’s ski jump team. Hendrickson only recently recovered from a massive knee injury that initially was destined to keep her out of
this year’s Games. Defeating the odds and rehabilitating at an outrageous pace, she is ready to set herself apart from the rest of her competition this year. But perhaps the most exciting newcomers are siblings Phil and Amanda Kessel, who dominate the hockey rink. While Phil plays professionally for the Toronto Maple Leafs, his sister, Amanda, is a student at the University of Minnesota. Not only did she score 101 points throughout the 2012-2013 hockey season, but she is also the winner of the Patty Kazmaier Award, an honor as important in the hockey world as the Heisman trophy is in football. Everyone remembers the 1980 Winter Games, hosted in Lake Placid, New York, where the U.S. hockey team had a miracle victory against Soviet Russia’s prized squad. In the height of the Cold War, that victory was more than just a celebration for sports. It was a national victory against the frustrations of a war that had been long in the making. As a result of this incredible feat thirty-four years ago, hockey has forever held a special place in the hearts of patriotic Americans, who certainly will be watching as the U.S. hockey teams (men’s and women’s) travel to take on other nations in a historically pivotal sport. The spotlight will shine brightly on these American siblings as they attempt to contribute to the legacy of American hockey. Olympics athletes often seem like gods on Earth among us: untouchable and superior. But, truthfully, they’re a lot like Islanders. They work hard, and dream big, and some even attend college while trying to pursue their dreams, much like the student athletes here at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. At the end of the day, they work their heart out, and ask only for the support of their fellow Americans as they try to make them proud. “Oh say, does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave? O’er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.”
playing that caliber of team. But we have a long way to go before we can even think about that. 4. How much of an impact have your newcomers made this year? Wilson: We feel we have two of the best freshman big men in the conference in Jeff Beverly and Rashawn Thomas. Jeff is a dynamic scorer who has good finesse for a guy his size. Rashawn is a long, athletic player who has an impact on the game at both ends. Both of those guys have played a big role in our team’s success, and we are going to need them to continue to play a big role if we’re going to accomplish what we set out to. 5. Who are the returning players who are leading the team? Wilson: With our team, you have to start by talking about John Jordan – he’s one of the best players in the conference and a guy who could play at any level. He’s the team leader both on and off the court. But a big part of our success is that we’ve gotten contributions from just about everybody – from our seniors in Zane Knowles and Joy Williamson, to our returning veterans in Jake Kocher and Hameed Ali, to our younger guys like Brandon Pye and Cole Martinez. But even the guys who haven’t
Head men’s basketball coach Willis Wilson been contributing in games have been making huge contributions in practice making us better on game day. It’s a total team effort. The Islanders Men’s Basketball team next plays Central Arkansas University at the American Bank center on Thursday, February 13, at 7:30 PM. This conference game is key to the Islander’s season, and students are encouraged to take advantage of this pivotal game and cheer on their fellow students as they take on the CAU Bears.
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02.13.2014
Selfies with student athletes
ISLAND WAVES
Get to know Islanders student athletes one self-taken portrait at a time by Christina Boothe sports reporter
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e have resorted to chasing down various student athletes, handing them an interview sheet to fill out, and taking ridiculous selfies with them. Come along for the ride as we introduce the studly members of our student body: the athletes. Name: Ashanti Plummer Age/Year: 19/Sophomore Sport/Position/Number: Basketball/ Forward/#22 Hometown: New York City, New York Relationship Status: Single, Holla at me Major: Kinesiology – Sports Management Favorite Song: “I Was Here” – Beyoncé Favorite Movie: “Titanic”/”The Lion King” Favorite Book: “The Five People You Meet in Heaven” – Mitch Albom Favorite Hobby (aside from the sport you play): I love dancing and singing If I’m not on the field/court/track or at class, I’m usually: Hanging out with friends or sleeping If you sit next to me in class and want to strike conversation, a sure bet is to talk to me about: Anything, If you don’t know what to say, start off talking about basketball. Favorite Quote: “If you stand for nothing, you’ll fall for anything,”- Alexander Hamilton The person I look up to most is: My lovely Mommy My athletic inspiration is: Candace Parker My celebrity crush is: Shemar Moore
right: Women’s basketball player Ashanti Plummer and sports reporter Christina Boothe show off their silly side
photo by Ashanti Plummer
Women’s Tennis Overcomes Weather to Sweep UTPA 6-0 GoIslanders
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ORPUS CHRISTI – The Texas A&M - Corpus Christi women’s tennis team battled through the wet, windy and cold weather today to sweep Texas-Pan American 6-0 at the HEB Tennis Center. After the match was delayed and moved from the Thomas J. Henry Tennis Center to the HEB Tennis Center, the Islanders clinched all six singles matches including three matches that went into three-setters. “I thought our girls responded very well to a very challenging day,” Director of Tennis Steve Moore said. “There’s a very clear fork in the road when it’s cold and windy. Either move your feet like crazy and fight like a pit bull or lose. There’s really not much more to say than that. I think a few of us kind of stood at the fork in the road deciding which one to take for 30 minutes, but eventually they all chose the right road. “Texas-Pan American has upgraded their team tremendously since last year and were a tough team with several matches going three sets.” Freshman Judit Vives led things off with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Reegan Greenwood in the No. 6 spot to stay undefeated in singles play. The Barcelona, Spain native improved to 3-0 in singles play. Maider Martin followed suit with a straight-set victory in No. 2 singles over Mariana Ranzahuer. The sophomore sealed a 6-4 first set before cruising to a 6-0 second-set win. The Islanders kept things rolling clinching their third set of the day on court five. Freshman Kerry Galhos recorded her third singles win of the season to
Tennis Match Results Texas-Pan American vs. Texas A&M - Corpus Christi 2/10/2014 at Corpus Christi, Texas Texas A&M - Corpus Christi 6, Texas-Pan American 0 Singles competition: 1. Stefania Nicolae (AMCC) def. Didi Fatchikova (UTPA) 4-6, 7-6 (7-3), 6-0 2. Maider Martin (AMCC) def. Mariana Ranzahuer (UTPA) 6-4, 6-0 3. Sandra Burges (AMCC) def. Katia Stavroulaki (UTPA) 3-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-0 4. Celia Rodriguez (AMCC) def. Wanda Beguelin (UTPA) 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 5. Kerry Galhos (AMCC) def. Christel Amsallem (UTPA) 7-5, 7-6 (7-2) 6. Judit Vives (AMCC) def. Reegan Greenwood (UTPA) 6-1, 6-3 Match Notes: Texas-Pan American 1-2 Texas A&M - Corpus Christi 3-1 Order of finish: Singles (6,2,5,4,1,3) stay unbeaten in the No. 5 spot. She picked up a tight 7-5 first set win over Christel Amsallem before notching a 7-6 (2) tiebreaker in the second set. A&M - Corpus Christi clinched the match in the No. 4 spot after Celia Rodriguez squeezed out a three-set win. The sophomore garnered her fourth consecutive win of the season in singles play to stay undefeated. After dropping
the first set 6-2 to Wanda Beguelin, Rodriguez answered back with a 6-1 second-set victory and carried over her momentum into the third set to win 6-2. Seniors Stefania Nicolae and Sandra Burges posted the final two points for the Islanders after battling back to win in three sets. Nicolae dropped a 6-4 first set in the No. 1 spot to Didi Fatchikova, but bounced back to win a 7-6
(3) tiebreaker to force a third set. In the third, the Pitesti, Romania native swept the set 6-0 to win. On court three, Burges like Nicolae battled back from a first-set loss to win a second-set tiebreaker and force a third set. In the first, Burges fell 6-3 to Katia Stavroulaki, but recovered to win a 7-6 (4) second-set tiebreaker. In the final set, Burges blanked Stavroulaki to win 6-0 for the Islanders’ final point of the day. “I cannot begin to thank Tjon-A-Joe and HEB Tennis Center enough for allowing us to rent their facility and the work their maintenance crew put in to dry the courts for us,” Moore added. “We would have not been able to get this match in without them. “This is a just another example of the great tennis community we have in Corpus Christi and the way they support Islanders Tennis. We’re working hard and getting a little better every week. We better be because this team has very high goals.” The women’s team will now embark on a five-match road swing starting on Feb. 12 in Dallas against SMU. The Islanders will then turn around and face UT Arlington on Feb. 13 in Arlington. The men’s team will take on conference foe Oral Roberts next on Sunday, Feb. 16 in Dallas, Texas. For all the latest on Islanders Tennis, like the team on Facebook (IslandersTennis) and follow them on Twitter and Instagram (@IslandersTennis).
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02.13.2014