Volume 25 Issue 5 by Island Waves

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What policy? Students at Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi ill informed on Active Shooter Policy

Homecoming PAGE 4

image courtesy of Alexis De Leon

Building Operations employees Nick Jung and Juan Catalan demonstrate what they would do if confronted with a shooter on campus in the University Center

by CONNOR TICHOTA news editor

ith Purdue University being the most recent addition to the growing list of school shootings, campus safety is a growing concern across the nation. However, at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, the student body’s knowledge of the campus’s Active Shooter policy appears to be very scant due to an apparent lack of communication. Upon interviewing ten students

milling about A&M-Corpus Christi’s campus, eight of the randomly selected students, all varying in grade range and majors, admitted that they knew nothing about the Active Shooter policy. A few bravely attempted to guess at proper protocol, whilst others merely gave a blank stare and shook their heads frantically. Dina Ruiz, a junior, provided one of the most extensive answers regarding her knowledge of the policy. “I don’t know the exact policy,” said Ruiz. “I have asked a professor before about it when we were discussing crisis

situations on campus and how they would handle it. I do know that only select professors are in on what to do in the building, or something like that. I’m sure they have a policy in place, but I don’t know what it is.” Another student, Caitlin Martinez, a freshman, also seemed to provide one of the most knowledgeable answers.

abaret is a musical unlike any other. Set in Berlin, Germany at the dawn of the 1930s. The Nazi party is growing stronger as the world grows closer and closer towards the precipice

of World War II. A majority of the show takes place in the Kit Kat club, a seedy cabaret where the only thing bolder than the set design is the personalities who run the place.

The show chronicles the story of writer Clifford Bradshaw, a traveling American writer and his girlfriend, club singer Sally Bowles. The begin-

PAGE 6

see Shooter on Campus on pg 3

An evening with Cabaret by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

K Space presents work by John Webb

ning of the show is full of cheerful song and dance which paints a picture of a much more peaceful Berlin where freedom of expression is not condemned but encouraged.

Selﬁes with student athletes PAGE

see Cabaret on pg 5

VOLUME 25, ISSUE 05

editorial

02.20.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Letter from the editor

a student publication of

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 TREY SEAL staﬀ reporters

NICK THOMSON

distribution manager

RUTH AIPPERSPACH faculty adviser

AMY KOTULSKI staﬀ adviser

Dear Island University,

his week in Island Waves we were hoping to capture a bit of the Homecoming magic. Capturing what it means to students and the nominees was an important aspect this week. Remember the days of getting excited and dressing up for the game in anticipation of watching the nominees (often close friends) walk the field in their outfits. College can be a big scary place but give it time and the familiarity of greeting friends in the hall, cheering at games and dreading exams all comes back. Island Waves remains on the hunt for amazing writers, or students willing to be comfortable with the uncomfortable which is about 60 percent of the job. Talking to someone not normally in the regular circle of friends and all the while sweating bullets is half the challenge, or fun really. I can only hope there are questions the student body has on a regular basis and with that said, urge each and every Islander to ask these questions. There are injustices happening all around. There are humorous, heart-breaking and heroic stories to be told which a small staff can never fully cover. Write with comments, concerns or time-wasting “cool” stories- Island Waves won’t mind. I for one am tired of being 24 and treated like I’m 16 and just given the keys to the family car. They say don’t do this, it is impossible to do that, read this, fill this out and all the while expect a smile and polite demeanor. Whose rules are these? Please do not confuse my frustration with disrespect. As president to a club, coordinator to the greatest place on campus, editor-in-chief and a future scientist of America I am all about respect, in fact it is the only way things get done. What I’m asking for is mutual respect. I have paid enough tuition to buy new Mac laptops for a sizeable classroom. Given the University enough publicity to have a box at Whataburger Field reserved. Held my tongue so long it bled the coppery flavor of dissatisfaction. And while Corpus will always be my home, and Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi my alma mater I fear the longer the disrespect continues the greater my need to distance myself from this place grows. They say, “youth is wasted on the young” but perhaps what they should say is that youth is wasted on those who allow the old to hinder growth. Sincerely, Alexis De Leon Editor-in-Chief Island Waves

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.

image courtesy 401(k) 2014

news

02.20.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Shooter on campus “ They get a hold of students via text message,” said Martinez. “They also have flashing red lights in all of the lab rooms, in case of an emergency… As far as who is supposed to lead the students to safety, I don’t know.” Unfortunately, neither of these answers accurately illustrates the Active Shooter listed by the University. According to the Quick Reference Guide for Emergencies, provided on the University’s website, the procedure to follow in the event of an active shooter begins with calling the University Police Department. Whilst reporting, students need to identify their location, the appearance of the shooter, the weapon, and any victims or bystanders in the area. After contacting UPD, students should barricade themselves in a classroom, with chairs, desks, etc., turn off the lights and remain away from windows and doors until instructed otherwise by law enforcement. The text of the Active Shooter policy does not specify how students around campus will be notified of the presence of a shooter. According to Detective Ramon Carsares of the UPD, the University’s Notification System will alert students via text, classroom telephones, and sirens when a dangerous situation occurs. “ This is the first time I’m hearing about it [the policy],” said Teodoso Gonzalez, freshman student. “I would like to know more about it.”This disconnect of information exemplifies the possibility of a muddling, or lack of, communication between the administration and the student body regarding policies. According to Carsares, the UPD provides several presentations throughout the year training faculty, staff and student employees what to do in the event of any emergency. Yet, no presentation has been made available to student body as a whole. “ The message is getting out there,” said Carsares, “I believe he [Chief Gutierrez] is working on something. It is online…we try to get this out as much as possible.”

continued from page 1 The students interviewed, though representing a very small portion of the Island University as a whole, are representative of a possibly larger problem resonating. Even with the presentations the student body is not as informed as it should be in the case of such an emergency. What has caused this disconnect is unclear, but what is clear is that students needed to be informed of campus policies: especially those pertaining to their own safety. The shooting at Purdue University, according to the Chicago Tribune, occurred on Jan. 21. Cody Cousins, a 23 year-old engineering student, shot and killed Andrew Boldt, a 21 year-old student and teaching assistant. Cousins’ motive and relationship to the victim is unknown at this time. For more information regarding A&MCorpus Christi emergency policies please view the Quick Reference Guide found online at tamucc.edu.

right: Jung and Catalan demonstrate another scenario if faced with a shooter on campus photo by Alexis De Leon

news 4

HOMECOMING2014 02.20.2014

ISLAND WAVES

King Candidates-

by KATHLEEN RAMIREZ features editor

oting for the 2014 homecoming court is now underway here at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. This year, three guys and four girls are competing for the title

Matt Daniels

of A&M-Corpus Christi 2014 Homecoming King and Queen. Voting will remain open until the 27, with the winners being announced on March 1.

MEET THE CANDIDATES Queen CandidatesStella Drouillard-Salom

Major: Criminal justice with a minor is psychology Hometown: North Dallas (Frisco), TX Running on behalf of: SGA Involved in: Student Government Association, Aloha Days Hobbies: Swimming, volunteering at the animal shelter, hanging out with friends and boyfriend, working out and sand volleyball After graduation: Plans on moving back home to attend graduate school while working in the crime analysis department for the Dallas Police Department Why’d you decide to run for Queen? “I decided to run because I feel that Student Government does a lot to improve our school, and they should have a representative on the Homecoming Court. Also, through running for Homecoming, I hope to make new friends.” Why do you think you’re a good candidate to win? “I think I would be a good choice for queen because of my wholeness and uniqueness. I really try to be all around and have friends in as many different groups as possible. Growing up, my mom always taught me to treat others how I want to be treated, and also to never let a day go by without letting your loved ones know you love them. She raised me with a very optimistic personality and that’s why I’m so outgoing today. I guess that through that I am different in the sense that I genuinely care about everyone in all different groups of our university.” If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you want with you? “I would take a good book, a bottle of tequila, my mom and a mega pack of goldfish.” Anything else you’d like to mention? “I guess I would like to mention that growing up I wasn’t exactly popular or anything like that. It was actually the opposite so it’s kind of weird to now be running for Homecoming Court for my school, and feel like I’m in love with the perfect guy who I’ve been with for a year now. It’s just weird to have imagined myself here. When I see other people that feel like they don’t have it together, I want to let them know it’s okay, and it’s part of God’s plan and their

journey. Life’s not always a vacation, but it sure is a wonderful journey.”

Chelsea Smith

Major: Psychology Hometown: North of Austin (Lago Vista), TX Running on behalf of: Alpha Gamma Delta Involved in: Alpha Gamma Delta Hobbies: Animals, hanging out with friends, exercising, biking, swimming, hiking and fishing After graduation: Plans on attending graduate school, and hopes to one day get her doctorates and open her own practice Why’d you decide to run for Queen? “I decided to run because I have never put myself out there before, I was way too afraid to fail. But you know what? If you never try, you’ll never know. My sisters nominated me for Homecoming Queen, so if my sisters believe in me, then so can I.” Why do you think you’re a good candidate to win? “I feel that I am a great choice because I am the ideal woman to represent TAMUCC as a whole. I have worked hard for everything that I have and earn, and I never give up on people or myself. I believe that in order to make a change in the world, you must make changes within yourself. Through this, I hope to show other women who may share this fear that it doesn’t matter what happens in the end, what matters is that you are fearless enough to risk the fall; the experience alone is magical. I feel that my humble pride and positive attitude is what sets me apart from the other candidates, but if I didn’t win I would be just as happy for the candidate that did. We are all working hard for the same outcome.” If you could only wear one color for the rest of your life, what color would you pick and why? “I don’t really have a favorite color, but I really love the color turquoise because it reminds me of beautiful clear blue waters that I hope to enjoy someday.” Anything else you’d like to mention? “I am just an American citizen that has been blessed with the opportunity to get my education and pursue my dreams in life.”

Major: Accounting Hometown: Lewisville TX Running on behalf of: Sigma Phi Epsilon Involved in: Sigma Phi Epsilon, Aloha Days, ROTC Hobbies: Hanging out with fraternity brothers, playing video games, going on dates with his girlfriend and volunteering in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program After graduation: Plans on going to Fort Lee, VA for Basic Officer Leadership Course Why’d you decide to run for King? “I decided to run because I was the Homecoming Duke last year. Also, I figured it’s my senior year so why not? I would’ve always wondered what would’ve happened if I didn’t.” Why do you think you’re a good candidate to win? “Well, first of all, I’m the best candidate for Homecoming King because I was the Homecoming Duke last year, and I was one of three Islander Free Ring Recipients. I think what sets me apart from the other candidates is that I am the only candidate that is going to serve our great nation by commissioning in the United States Army after graduation. Also, my continuous involvement through student activities and community service shows my commitment to our great university.” Favorite cartoon character? “My favorite carton character would have to be Jerry from Tom and Jerry, hand down. To this day, I still literally laugh my ass off when I watch it.” Anything else you’d like to mention? “Go Islanders!”

David Norris

Major: Marine biology with a minor in chemistry Hometown: Kerrville, TX Running on behalf of: Islander Anglers Involved in: Islander Anglers, Delta Chi, Bassmasters Team, Ducks Unlimited, Big Brothers Big Sister Program, Coastal Conservation Association Corpus Christi, writes fishing guidelines for the Corpus Christi Caller Times, fishing instructor at Outdoor Texas Champs, licensed kayak fishing guide Hobbies: Basketball, fishing and hanging out with his girlfriend, Delta Chi brothers and friends After graduation: Plans on attending A&MCorpus Christi for graduate school Why’d you decide to run for King? ”I am running for a few reasons. One reason is because I am a naturally shy person and this would be a great challenge to step of my comfort zone even more. Another reason is because I really want to make this competition more serious and improve school spirit. I see it as an opportunity to be a leader and inspire my fellow students to challenge themselves to reach their goals and dreams.”

Why do you think you’re a good candidate to win? “I am a great candidate because I am open-minded, diverse and chivalrous. Also, I am in multiple organizations in and out of school. I am actually trying to make this competition better, and I am working on creating a scholarship that will be awarded to either the winners (king, queen, duke, duchess) their organization, or a charity of their choice. I feel that if there was more than just a title on the line more people would want to get involved with Homecoming which would then lead to bigger outcomes at the games.” If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? “If I could go anywhere in the world, I would go to Florida and chase tarpon on the fly.” Anything else you’d like to mention? “Go Islanders!”

Gregory Summers

Major: Marketing Hometown: Willis, TX Running on behalf of: Beta Theta Pi Involved in: Beta Theta Pi, Aloha Days Hobbies: Painting, writing, hanging out with his fraternity brothers, attending oncampus events and intramurals After graduation: Plans on attending graduate school, and eventually hopes to get a doctorate so he can be a professor for the College of Business Why’d you decide to run for King? “Because I wanted to leave some sort of legacy here at TAMUCC. I’m a very involved person on campus too, for that reason. I want to leave college knowing people will remember who I was for all the right reasons.” Why do you think you’re a good candidate to win? “I think I’ll be a good candidate because I embody the Islander spirit more than anyone at the school. There is no person that loves this school more than me. I hold myself to very high standards, and any chance I get I help promote the school. Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi means the world to me, and I feel I represent this school enough to be worthy of wearing the crown. I know the other candidates very well and I think the thing that sets me apart from them is that I always bring a good attitude and a smile to school everyday.” If you could be any animal, what would you be? “If I was an animal, I would be an elephant. Elephants are my favorite animal because they symbolize wisdom, and my friends have always told me that I am very wise.” Anything else you’d like to mention? “I’m very social and outgoing, and I’m always looking to make a new friend. I always go to school an hour early just so I can have the chance to meet someone new. Also, I have a flappy bird high score of 102.”

Electronic Cigarettes result in change to tobacco policy by CONNER TICHOTA news editor

recent increase in the use of electronic cigarettes among students inside and outside of classrooms has resulted in Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi re-examining its current tobacco policy. The Environmental, Health and Safety Department at A&M-Corpus Christi has submitted a revision of the policy to the A&M System Board of Regents for approval, hoping to implicate the changes this semester. According to Roy Coons, director of the Environmental, Health and Safety Department, the revised tobacco policy was proposed to the A&M Board of Regents in Nov. of 2013 when a noticeable increase of e-cigarettes, also commonly known as vaporizers, were being utilized in classrooms. “It’s just a cultural thing,” explained Coons. “There’s still second-hand smoke associated with the vapors and suspected carcinogens in the vapors. Even though [e-cigarettes] are designed to be used in the building, some people are just not comfortable with that. We feel it is in the best interest of all our campus community to just not allow that.” The decision will be made this semester and the new policy will be implemented immediately. The newly revised policy will address the use of not only cigarettes, but electronic cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco as well. The new policy will prohibit any kind

of smoking inside of buildings. This includes products such as e-cigarettes or chewing tobacco. “We still allow you to smoke,” said Coons. “There are areas that have been authorized for smoking.” Even though smoking is allowed in designated areas, there will still be certain outdoor areas that smoking is prohibited in including 25 feet within a building, enclosed walk ways (such as the spine), and all memorial plazas(such as the Hector P. Garcia Plaza) to name a few. The purpose of this policy is to protect the health of students, faculty and staff on campus as well as keep the Island University a smoke-free environment. “There has been a trend to go smokeless,” said Coons, “The University of Texas campus is completely smokeless, and CVS pharmacy has recently decided not to sell tobacco products. One of the things that we [Environmental, Health and Safety Department] encourage tobacco users to do is find products that allow them to work towards quitting.” According to the Food and Drug Administration, an e-cigarette is a battery operated product that turns chemicals, including the addictive nicotine found in cigarettes, into vapor. E-cigarettes are not regulated by FDA standards, nor have they been studied in full. Therefore, the FDA cannot safely say how many harmful chemicals are being inhaled during use, or if there is any other risks or benefits associated with their

use. The FDA is currently working towards creating regulations for the e-cigarette, much as A&M-Corpus Christi is working to amend it in the current tobacco policy. “It is [your] right to use those products,” said Coons, “We just ask that they are used in

a manner that respects all others on campus.” For more information regarding health and safety policies on campus, please visit the Environmental, Health and Safety Department page at tamucc.edu. For more information regarding e-cigarettes, please visit fda.gov.

photo courtesy of ANDREW LIGUEZ

features

02.20.2014

ISLAND WAVES

A SINGLE’S GUIDE As the play moves forward, the tone changes from one of all around cheeriness to a tone of fear and tension among the characters. This tension is due to the rising power of the Nazi party, which is taking a toll on the various characters lives. Upon walking into the theatre (for a tech rehearsal), I felt as if I had fallen down a rabbit hole and arrived in another dimension. With elaborate set designs, catchy music, and a fantastic cast: Cabaret succeeds in bringing its audience into its world. The show accomplishes this through the use of a large, round stage in the center of the room that is only feet away from the audience. Performers walk onstage and acknowledge the audience as patrons of the Kit Kat Klub. In order to get a better understanding of Cabaret, I interviewed its director, Island University professor, Allison Frost. “I’ve called it the onion play, there are so many layers to it that you can’t embrace the entire show at one time” Frost said when asked about how she would describe the show. “You take it and build it one layer at a time, by the time you add the band, the costumes, the makeup, the lighting, it becomes this thing of its own and we won’t really know how all of that congeals until we have the final layer, which is the audience.” When asked how she would pitch the show to somebody who has never stepped foot in a theater, she said, “Cabaret by any standard of musical theatre, almost always ranks in the top 5 of any musical ranking list. The story has a them that displays the dangers of marginalization. There are not many survivors left to remind us of the tyranny of the Nazi regime and if we don’t remind people when we can, then that mark on history gets whitewashed.

continued from PAGE 1 The show may be told with song and dance but the message is still the same. People are people regardless of how they look, dress, sleep, where they were born, how they were born, who their parents were. “The characters in this show were all victims of the atrocity that was the Holocaust, some of these characters would be imprisoned in concentration camps for reasons such as political dissidence, homosexuality, or simply being Jewish. By the time Hitler came to power, the cabarets were closed and the lifestyle promoted by them was used to pigeonhole and paint an ugly picture of the people who frequented them.” With so much recent debate on freedom of choice, Cabaret’s message of embracing the strange (different from what we are used to) and the new is still very relevant to our modern world. Cabaret will run at the performing arts center from Feb. 18 until Feb. 23. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. each night except for Sunday which is a 2pm matinee.

Life of a

Student Musician by ANDREW LIGUEZ entertainment reporter

ere at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, students are given the chance to par in whatever they choose. Some students go into science to become scientist or doctor, while others become math geeks to get ahead in the business world. Others dedicate themselves to the arts, these students become immersed in another world and become artist of their trade. I recently met up with one of these students, Heather Beltz to learn about her life as a student musician. Can you start off by stating your classification and name? “My name is Heather Beltz and I am a fifth year senior.” What’s your major? “I am going for my bachelors of arts in music” What do you plan to do with that degree? “I actually auditioned and applied for different grad schools, and I have already been accepted to Texas Tech. I plan to pursue a music ecology degree.” How did you get into music? “It started in the sixth grade, when they took you to the instrument petting zoo to figure out what you wanted to do. I picked an instrument and stuck with it and ever since then I’ve always wanted to do music somehow.” How is it in the music department? “I love the music department, we call ourselves the music village because we always try to be a family and be there for each other. We also do a lot of different performances with each other, sometimes the vocalist perform with instrumentalist and vice versa. We have so many performances and try and get out there to make music all the time. All of our performances are public, most are free for the audience.” Does being in the music department make your student life harder? “It makes it different.

by KATHLEEN RAMIREZ features editor

ell somebunny is having a meltdown of epic proportions because I cleaned their cage. Rigby did not like the way I redecorated his cage, specifically, the fact that his litter box was turned around and pushed to the very back of his cage. He then proceeded to push and pull his box until it was to his liking. When rabbits are upset, they’ll hop around, run, thump their feet and will even occasionally make a little piggy/honking sound if they’re especially worked. Pilot is a big fan of the honking noise and thumping. Jojo and Rigby like to do their own thing and will often times ignore Pilot. Whenever Pilot wants them to pay him attention however, he’ll start thumping on the floor of his cage in an attempt to get them to face him. Unfortunately for Pilot, that thumping doesn’t seem to work on anyone. Sure, Jojo and Rigby may turn and face Pilot for a moment, but they won’t actually go up to him. They will also turn back to whatever it is they were doing, and continue to ignore Pilot immediately after. On a happier not, the bunnies received a new toy last week. Since Pilot has a habit of

digging the bedding out of his litter box, and since Rigby likes to scratch at carpet, I decided to buy the bunnies a sandbox. And it isn’t a puny little sandbox. No, it’s a big ol’ daddy sandbox that’s in the shape of a turtle. It even comes with a cover for the sandbox, which coincidently, is molded in the shape of turtle shell. So my living room is now completely covered in bunny-related items. On the bright side, the bunnies seem to enjoy it so far. I hid little chewing toys and apple-flavored wood sticks in the sand so they have fun digging them up.

Heather Beltz

Sometimes depending on what you take on with all the different ensembles that you are in and how much time you are willing to put into your practice so that can be the best performer you can be. It doesn’t allow you to work that much and if you do work it’s going to be late in the night. We don’t really know the meaning of sleep, but we enjoy it, it’s what we do. And we are willing to do whatever we can to be the best performer we can. It’s different is what I would say.” What instrument do you play? “I play flute and piccolo.” How long have you been playing your instrument? “I am stating year 12. I started playing in the sixth grade so it should be around the age of 11.” What do you like to do daily? “Since I love music so much I am a bit biased in the sense that I choose to take all my core classes during the summer. I did this so that during the long semesters I could focus on music. Basically every day we go to our music classes, whenever they be ensemble or educational classes. But I love to practice whenever I get the chance.” What do you want to do in the future? “My particular path with music encology, has me studying the music and different cultures. I would actually be doing field work and be going to different places like Africa, Ireland and even Peru. I would be studying how music works in their culture, I would also like to teach at a college level. There I would teach that music is really universal and this is why. “Music is my life and for anyone that love music but it is not their passion, it’s a great way to just let go of the day and connect whatever music whenever it be country, rap or punk. Whatever it is you can connect with it and build individualism and being able to express yourself.”

photo courtesy of ANDREW LIGUEZ

features 6

02.20.2014

K Space Contemporary

by ANDREW LIGUEZ entertainment reporter

ere in Corpus Christi it’s not that hard to find art or something that pokes the interest of imagination. Here, it is easy to be artsy and find different exhibits around the town. One of the more known exhibit holders is K Space Contemporary, a non-profit organization that promotes and shows contemporary art, “A forum for creative exchange and experimentation, we aspire to educate and build awareness for innovative art in South Texas. K Space Contemporary is located in downtown Corpus Christi, Texas. K Space Contemporary is the oldest alternative art space in the Coastal Bend region. A primary goal of the organization is to exhibit emerging and mid-career artists,” according to the K Space website. I recently met up with the Executive Director Michelle Smythe to get the details about K Space and how it started. “We started in the studio upstairs of the current building, there are studios that occupy the third floor of the building,” said Smythe. “It started as an artist co-op in 1995 and then in 1998, 99 we ran a little gallery in the space that is in front of us. We [K Space Founders] all had full time jobs, we ran out of money and free rent. We moved out of there and over the years we built ourselves up and reorganized ourselves. We applied for nonprofit status and

photo courtesy of ANDREW LIGUEZ

Freshman Spotlight Allie Kemp

ISLAND WAVES

got tax exempt status and all of that stuff. So once we got that under our belt we organized our board of directors, we asked our land lord if we could get space. The space we are currently in has been sitting here for 14 years, storing kids old furniture and other things. So I asked the land lord if he would be interested in making this into a gallery, so we owe a lot to the company. We did the labor ourselves by putting in the bedrock and making the offices and desk. We opened in Oct. of 2007.” At this moment K Space is featuring the works of John Webb with a current exhibit, titled “Fables of the Reconstruction.” In this exhibition, Webb displays sculptures that highlight three series of works executed in recent years. “Organic Spaces” is a series in which new and dynamic environments are invented and which produce associative shapes that can be referenced to organisms and natural structures. “Pickle Project” is a compilation of humorous works in which ‘quartered ellipse shapes’ are three dimensionally transformed as is suggested by their given titles. “Bodies of Work” is a series in which elements of the human figure are combined with mechanical machinery components to produce associations to beauty, work, and a ‘body of knowledge’ that we as humans share in the fabric of our collective memory. His works will be featured from Feb. 7 to March 7. K Space Contemporary is free to the public and is open 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wed through Sat.

by KATHLEEN RAMIREZ features editor

or over 17 years, Allie Kemp hadn’t been away from her triplet siblings for more than a day. That all changed last semester though, once Kemp started attending Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. “I’m a triplet, and my brother and sister are both attending college at Abilene Christian University. We’ve never really been apart, and we’re all really close,” Kemp said. A native of Santa Rosa, TX, Kemp said the hardest thing about transitioning to college life was leaving her siblings. “I can’t remember a time when we were apart for an extensive amount of time. Yeah, we’d go out and do our own things with our own friends and stuff, but we always lived under the same roof and always saw each other every day.” Getting used to doing things on her own is also another challenge Kemp has encountered while in college. “The biggest difference for me between high school and college is that my schedule is way more unique than it was in high school. I don’t have a significant number of people who have the same classes as myself,” Kemp said. “It’s a little harder, but the challenges are more about being on my own and making my own decisions rather than academics.” Despite the differences from high school, there was one thing Kemp said she was expecting from college life, but never got. “I have been surprised by how nice and

helpful all of my professors have been. In high school all I would hear from my teachers is how college professors won’t care about what you do or if you even come to class, but I’ve quickly learned how untrue that is,” she said. Kemp is currently majoring in Biology, and hopes to enroll in Texas A&M University’s Veterinary school in College Station after graduation. “I chose the pre-veterinary route because I’ve been around animals my whole life. I hope to either have my own practice or work at a zoo one day,” Kemp said. A former volleyball player and cheerleader for her high school, the Biology major fills her time in between classes and studying by participating in intramurals and by staying busy with her sorority Alpha Gamma Delta. “There’s never a dull moment, and I’m always finding new ways to keep myself busy,” Kemp said. “Although I was kind of iffy about joining a sorority at first, I can easily say it was one of the best decisions I have made so far here at the University.” Kemp attributes her success so far to managing her time and studying, and encourages others to do the same as well. “I balance everything out by knowing when I should study and focus on school work, and by just making sure I put that above everything else. Once I know I’m good with everything involving school, then I know I can go out and have fun,” Kemp said. “Despite what you think, your professors will help, all you have to do is ask. Just learn how to manage your time and ask for help.”

entertainment

02.20.2014

ISLAND WAVES

by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

omputers can be confusing: so many different brands, sizes, and terminology can make deciding on the right digital device for you a downright daunting task. After plenty of research and a buying blunder, I eventually found the right tablet device for me and I’m going to help you decide which one is right for you. When choosing a tablet, you must consider an interface, otherwise known as an operating system. The operating system is what produces the look and feel of your device. The two most preferred operating systems on the market are Android and iOS. iOS, designed by Apple has a simple, colorful, and easy to use layout. The interface is so simplistic that even a novice user can become a pro within a couple days of use. However, the simple interface does come with the caveat of limited customization. About the only thing you can tune to your preferred look on iOS is the wallpaper. If you don’t like the predominantly white color of the iPod interface, then this may not be the device for you as that is unchanging. It is the perfect fit for the casual user. By far, Apple’s App Store has the broadest selection of apps in the smart device game with over 500,000 being built

Android Apps:

Kingsoft- office-word processor that lets you export files in PDF. (Free) Battery Agent- Battery monitor (Free) Avast-Mobile securityperiodically scans the device for malicious software. (Free) Google Drive- remote storage for power points, documents, and small files that is accessible to nearly any Internet connected device. (Free)

from the ground up for the iPad interface. Android, the brainchild of Google is similar to iOS in appearance, but functionally, it can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be due to its highly customizable interface. Unlike iOS, Android can be customized to your heart’s content. It is the perfect system for the computer science major who loves to tinker with specs, but it is just as suitable to somebody who is looking for a smart device that doesn’t want an oversized iphone (the iPad) next to their regular one. The Google Play Store may not have the numbers that apple has but it does have far more free apps that can range from mini-games to word processors. Google even has system management applications that let you perform tasks such as sorting folders, virus scanning, and automated battery managers that tell you which applications use the most power. There are other seemingly different operating systems such as the Amazon Kindles’ customized version of Android. Due to its lack of customization, Amazons’ tablet oversimplifies the interface and turns the Android experience into something more reminiscent of an iPad. It also has a noticeably duller palette, which veers more towards neutral grey and black throughout its various screens as opposed to iOS’s colorful setup. When it comes to schoolwork, both Android

and iOS have a variety of keyboard attachments and word processors that can give your tablet the note-taking capabilities of a small laptop. The iPad comes in two sizes: the iPad Air comes in at 10 inches (diagonally) while its little brother, the iPad mini, measures 7.9 inches across. In function, they are essentially the same device. The only difference between them is the different price points. If you own an iPhone or iPod Touch, you will be instantly familiar with iPad as they run the exact same operating system barring the previously mentioned tablet exclusive apps. My favorite Android tablet is the Google Nexus 7 (produced by Asus). It is offered in in two memory sizes, a 16GB for $229 and a 32 GB for $269. The Nexus 7 is 7 inches diagonally and has a thin profile that rivals the iPad at only (insert dimensions). It has a lightning fast response time that ensures your apps open in the blink of an eye. When buying a Nexus 7, verify that you’re buying the 2013 edition of the tablet. There is a 2012 edition still being sold that pales in comparison both in form and

function. If one is in the market for a larger tablet, do not buy the Nexus 10, which is still on the market with antiquated technology. If you’re in the market for a larger tablet, My recommendation would be to purchase any one of Samsung’s high quality Galaxy Tablets that range in size from 7 to 12.2 inches. For someone in need of a larger tablet with complete computer capability, I would recommend either a Microsoft Surface Pro 2 (ships with a stylus) at a minimum of $899 (shop around online, prices always fluctuate) or the Lenovo Ideapad Yoga 2 Pro (stylus sold separately) at $949 or more (depending on memory capacity). As I said before, computers can be confusing but they don’t have to be. The way that I learned which tablet was right for me was through persistent Google searching. Read reviews and don’t compromise on features for the sake of convenience. A computer is like a spouse, you better pick one that you love because its most likely going to be around for a long while.

Apple:

Pages- A word processor designed by Apple. (Free on new devices) Google Drive (free) Keynote- a power point editor designed by Apple. (free on new devices) Numbers- A spreadsheet editor. ($9.99)

AUBREY DANCER layout editor

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02.20.2014

ISLAND WAVES

by STEPHANIE WALLACE managing editor

find that the vast majority of books I read are full of the same type of story: man meets woman, they fall in love, a critical problem occurs threatening the relationship, then reconciliation. Although I do love reading these in front of a fire or on the beach, it is the ones that are vastly different that really get my interest. One such novel is “Desert Blood: the Juarez Murders” by Alicia Gaspar De Alba. This novel is based on real life events, of which are of a very disturbing nature. Along the Texas and Mexico border where El Paso and Juarez meet, a series of killings have occurred in recent years. Not just killings, but mass murders involving one common factor: they were all women. “Desert Blood” features El Paso native Ivon on her quest to adopt a baby from the black market. The story unfolds by bringing to light the fact that these killings are not even being reported on in area news. This parallels real life as these events, and the horrible details that

surrounds them, are also underreported. The novel unfolds into a battle for information and a series of events that brings the murders to Ivon’s front door. It is a truly scary thing to think that these events are happening so close to our very own city. Human trafficking is on the rise and very active within Texas. These are also underreported events. “Desert Blood” sets to bring to light a lot of the issues that are so close under our noses, but so hidden behind politics and industry. These things are in sharp contrast to the things we hear about in the media. It is the job of the media to make news that affects our citizen’s front page, and although this is in Mexico, it is really just in our backyard and should be brought to light. This novel does a lot to bring the matricides that are happening to public attention and is definitely worth reading to find out not jus the horrible reality, but what happens to the characters in the novel. It is one of those that you have to read to really feel and understand and, once you do, it will really sink in and raise a level of awareness that can be eye opening.

House of Rock presents:

photo courtesy of DTOWNDELIVERS.COM

by STEPHANIE WALLACE managing editor

o the average college student, a night out involves some venture into the city, possibly downtown. There are a few bars and clubs that can cater to the entire student body, as some are under the age of 21, but one place in particular is bringing a new aspect into downtown that will make University goers of all ages very happy-homemade, fresh pizza. The House of Rock, at 511 Starr St. in downtown, is a bar/live music venue that recently unveiled a new addition in the

by ANDREW LIGUEZ entertainment reporter

round this time of year it’s not that hard to find 5Ks happening around the town. Corpus Christi is a very active city and a big one that is coming up is Color Me Rad, its mission is to make your gray life colorful through having fun with color filled obstacles. The non-profit that the 5K is benefitting is the Ronald McDonald House. The website describes the charity as such, “The Ronald McDonald House provides families a safe, supportive home near their hospitalized children. Families can come to relax, have a

making: “The Kitchen” at House of Rock. “The Kitchen,” tentatively slated for a grand opening in mid-spring, will feature a limited menu of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and pizza. There will also be veggie options available as well as happy hour specials. “When bands come in to town, they always ask us for some good, local pizza,” said Stephanie Garcia, Public Relations for HOR. “They don’t want the same pizza they can get in any other town, they want fresh, homemade.” Therefore, Garcia, along with Casey Lain, members of the Downtown Management District, decided a restaurant option in the

popularly visited bar would not only function as a good expansion for the venue, but also as a great addition to the downtown district, adding more variety to the restaurant choices currently available in downtown. “As of right now, we are setting hours to be Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Friday and Saturday 11AM to 12 AM,” said Garcia. “We will start off closed on Sundays.” Fresh ingredients and great specialties like Caprice salads and Margherita pizza will be highlights, as well as the option to buy pizza by the slice or in a whole pie.

The current building, which used to serve as the county morgue, is under a reconstruction period as the HOR makes room for the new restaurant. The greatest part is that for most events, all ages, or at least 18 and up, are welcome. “It is not bar food or frozen pizza,” said Garcia. Options are also in the works for the late night visitor, where pizza might still be available to purchase after the restaurant has closed, until bar closing time. To get more updates on “The Kitchen,” check out the HOR facebook page.

meal, connect with other families in similar situations, and get a much needed good night’s rest. The Ronald McDonald House provides a restful space where families can watch some TV, check their email or enjoy a snack.” – Color Me Rad CC Website. At the beginning of the race you start off with a plain white t shirt then slowly progress through the barrage of color being thrown at you. At the end, you have a nice new t-shirt that is blended with all the colors of the rainbow, commemorating your finish of the race and bringing color into your life. The Corpus Christi race will happen on Feb. 22, with the races set to start at different times, going in increments of 15 minutes, 9:00, 9:15

9:30. The race will be going through downtown Corpus Christi, and its starting point will be at E. Port Ave. The race will continue down Ocean Dr. until the contestants will make a U-turn on Williams St. The contestants will then head back down Ocean Dr. until they reach the ending point at Brewster Street Icehouse. I met up with a few people that are planning to do the 5K in Corpus Christi to get their feelings about the upcoming race. They had these things to say about their feelings. How do you think you will do in the race and why are you competing? “I don’t think I will be one the first to finish, but I’ll probably finish the entire thing. I am running because one of my friends wants to do

this and I thought it would be fun to run with her. I have never done a Color Me Rad 5K before but I think it will be super fun!” – Cassidy Reed Do think the race will be attended well and do you like how they support the Ronald McDonald House? “I’m pretty sure that there will be a lot of people there, like everybody wants to run this 5K. I actually know a few of my family members that are running in the 5K. I think that the Ronald McDonald House is pretty good non-profit for the proceeds to go to.” – Kyle Scott Registration is still available for $50 for remaining spots.

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Now Hiring Copy Editor Layout Assistant News Reporter Sports Reporter applications now being accepted career-services.tamucc.edu contact us in the newsroom (361) 825-5862 â&#x20AC;˘ editor@tamucc.edu

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02.20.2014

ISLAND WAVES

The superstitious game: Part 1

Examining the ins and outs of superstitions in the world of sports by CHRISTINA BOOTHE sports reporter In 1919, the Boston Red Sox sold Babe Ruth, one of the most highly admired baseball players of all time, to the New York Yankees. Prior to this sale, Boston had a strong reputation as one of the most successful franchises in the game of baseball, winning both the first World Series and five after that. Little did Boston know, the tables were about to turn. The New York Yankees were, surprisingly, a previously jaded baseball force. However, after quite possibly the most highly anticipated sale of baseball history, the Yankees acquired the best player in the game at the time, which sent the entire program into ecstasy. They quickly shot above the Red Sox and won twenty-seven World Series titles, becoming a premier force in the game of baseball even to this day. The surprising turn of events has become known as “The Curse of Bambino,” in honor of Babe Ruth, sometimes called The Bambino’s, sale. Only

in 2004 did the curse get lifted when the Red Sox came back from a 0-3 American League Championship Series against the Yankees to win four straight games and go on to the World Series. They proceeded to sweep the Cardinals and win the World Series, thereby defeating the mystical tyranny of Babe Ruth’s fury. “The Curse of Bambino” is known as one of the most highly acknowledged superstitions in the game of baseball and has been a defining fuel for the rivalry between the Yankees and Red Sox ever since. Baseball is a superstitious game. From the rally cap to a certain style of wearing pants, baseball players have been known for their paranoia when it comes to their statistics. Arguably, baseball is the most mentally challenging sport. Not only is it a game that perplexes a player’s physical extremities, but it also condescends itself upon the minds of its participants, creating an exhaustion that is unmatched by any other sport. This creates in each player an innate obsession and a “what went wrong?” complex whenever games don’t go according to plans. Often, they blame it on what they believe was a

NBA veteran Cj Miles to take lyrical talents on road Islander alumnus Adrian Clark manages Cj Miles through a new chapter in his career

Press Release

ummer 2014 may prove to be quite a busy one for Cleveland Cavaliers starting guard Cj Miles. The 2005 2nd round pick [Utah Jazz] will again be an unrestricted free agent and after this season he will have suitors from just about every team in the NBA needing a young, 3 point shooting, swingman with 9 years experience under his belt. Miles announced All-Star Weekend, via Twitter that he will re-release his summer 2013 rap mixtape titled ‘No Camping’ and he will headline a hip-hop show in the city it all began- Salt Lake City, Utah. “I became a lot of things in Salt Lake. I became a man. I became a pretty good pro ball player. I became a businessman and a pretty dope artist, if I can say so myself,” Miles said. Miles, who goes by the stage name ‘Masfresco’ has always been musically inclined. He learned how to play the piano at age 6; since then he has taught himself how to make beats, write thought provoking lyrics and produce his own music. “Aside from sports, music has always been a passion of mine,” Miles said, “and it’s not just hip-hop. I have an appreciation for all genres: jazz, rhythm & blues, pop, etc.” Masfesco is set to take center stage July 12 at Urban Lounge in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. Miles’ show is presented by ‘L.A.S.T.’ (Living Above Society’s Tent) a clothing brand that he and his two close friends, Christopher ‘Bleek’ Greene and Adrian ‘AC’ Clark began last year. Cj hinted to another possible show after the July 12 debut that could take place in Cleveland. “I began rapping in Salt Lake and I put

Adrian Clark NBPA certified sports agent and boxing manager

my first project out in Cleveland, those two places make sense for me. I’m just looking to enjoy the summer, work hard in the gym and indulge in the music. I’m excited and nervous about both the free agent process and show but I’m looking forward to the ride,” Miles said. Contact Miles business manager Adrian Clark (AC) for all inquiries via telephone 214-986-2286 or by email at Ac_adrianclark@yahoo.com

failure to fulfill a superstition, thus turning the providential odds against them. A baseball player will wear the legs of his pants up, showing his knee socks, based on the simplest, most primitive idea that it aids him in the field. An entire team will go without washing their uniforms in hopes of continuing a winning streak. They don’t want to disrupt the nature of their success. They believe that their victories, their accomplishments, are the results of something as miniscule as the difference in gravitational pull when their socks are up versus when they are down. One of my personal, all-time favorite superstitions that I have witnessed is the “rally hat.” In late innings, losing teams will turn their hats inside out and place them sideways on their heads in an attempt to summon a victory. It is rather amusing to watch dozens of boys sitting in their dugout with contorted baseball caps, fighting in unison and playing to the ideas that they grew up believing. But for the Minnesota Twins, it was everything but amused. The Twins were beating the Boston Red Sox 6-1 in a 1987 game when Boston gave

them a surprise run for their money. In the eighth inning, Boston scored seven runs to edge out the score, 8-6. When the Twins came to bat at the bottom of the ninth inning, Al Newman, a second baseman/shortstop for the Twins, sparked a rally. “Rally Hats!” He shouted at his teammates. “Rally Hats!” In a desperate attempt to turn the game around, Newman’s fellow Twins teammates followed his lead. They turned their caps inside out and wore them sideways on their head. The Twins caught up with the Red Sox and pushed the game into the tenth inning, and with the help of another streak of Rally Hats, the Twins won the game 10-8 in extra innings. (George Sullivan, 2000). Superstitions could be exactly that: unbelievable fallacies. However, there is also the reality that there could be something to the idiosyncrasies of dedicated and competitive athletes. Come along for the ride as we perform a diagnosis on collegiate and professional level athletes and dissect the truth behind the superstitious game of baseball.

sports

02.20.2014

Selﬁes with student athletes

ISLAND WAVES

Get to know Islanders student athletes one self-taken portrait at a time by CHRISTINA BOOTHE sports reporter

sland Waves has set out to present another installment of student athlete selfies this time with basketball player Cole Martinez.

Name/Nickname: Cole Martinez/Cole World Age/Year: 20/Sophomore Sport/Position/Number: Basketball/ Shooting Guard/#2 Hometown: San Antonio, Texas Major: Kinesiology with a focus in math Favorite Song: My Moment – 2Chainz Favorite Movie: Space Jam Favorite Book: Of Mice And Men – John Steinbeck Favorite Hobby (aside from the sport you play): Coaching and golfing. If I’m not on the field/court/track or at class, I’m usually: Watching TV. If you sit next to me in class and want to strike conversation, a sure bet is to talk to me about: Basketball, or just say hi. I’ll talk to anyone who says hi. Favorite Quote: “Success looks easy to those who didn’t see the work put in.” Unknown The person I look up to most is: My AAU coaches back in high school. My athletic inspiration is: My Dad. My celebrity crush is: Ariana Grande

right: Men’s basketball player Cole Martinez and sports reporter Christina Boothe show oﬀ their pearly whites

photo by Cole Martinez

Islanders Tennis continues road swing at Louisiana-Lafayette GoIslanders

ORPUS CHRISTI – The Texas A&M Corpus Christi men’s and women’s tennis teams will return to action Tuesday, Feb. 18 in Lafayette, La. when they face the Ragin’ Cajuns at the Cajun Courts. The Islanders men’s team is on a seven-match winning streak and has tied the best start in school history with an 8-3 record that dates back to 2007. The women’s team (4-2) earned one of their biggest wins ever defeating nationally ranked SMU on the road in Dallas last week. “This is a team we have tremendous respect for,” Director of Tennis Steve Moore said. “They do an incredibly good job at home as far as fans. It’s a tough environment to play at, but at the same time I love it, because that is what college tennis needs, a loud, spirited crowd. This is what we try so hard to do in Corpus Christi. “This will be good for our players as it makes them mentally tougher and all boats rise for college tennis with fan attendance like we will see tomorrow. It is good for our sport and good for college tennis. We train our team consistently on controlling the things we can control, and fans are not one of the things you can control, so I expect a mentally focused effort from our teams.” The Islanders have a tremendous history of thrilling matches against ULL. Last season, the Islanders women’s team earned one of its toughest wins of the season with a 6-1 victory over the Ragin’ Cajuns at the Thomas J. Henry Tennis Center. After numerous delays due to the weather, the Islanders picked up the win to stay

undefeated on the season. After the Islanders clinched the doubles point, returners Maider Martin, Sandra Burges, Stefania Nicolae and Celia Rodriguez all claimed singles wins. Prior to that, the Islanders clinched a come-frombehind victory over ULL, 4-1, in Lafayette, La. with the final four singles matches going into a third set. Freshman Judit Vives leads the Islanders in singles play with a perfect 4-0 record in the No. 6 slot. Fellow freshman Kerry Galhos has also been outstanding in the No. 5 spot with a 4-1 record. Rodriguez leads the returners with a 5-1 record, including a 5-0 record in the No. 4 position. The sophomore clinched the match for the Islanders, 7-5, in the third set to lift the team to a 4-3 victory over SMU last week. On the men’s side, the Islanders and Ragin’ Cajuns met up twice last season with the Islanders taking both matches at home. In the first meeting, the two teams faced each other in the semifinals of the 47th Annual HEB Tournament of Champions at the Thomas J. Henry Tennis Center. The Islanders earned a gritty 4-2 win in a match that featured three singles matches reach a third set. Returners Peter Nagy, Matt Westmoreland and Ricardo Mayagoitia each secured singles victories. In the second meeting in Corpus Christi, the Islanders roared from behind to score the final four-team points to win 5-2 over ULL. Nagy, Westmoreland, Mayagoitia and Javier Pujol all recorded singles wins. The match between the Ragin’ Cajuns and

the Islanders in Lafayette in 2010 was one of the longest matches in Islanders’ history going seven hours because of a rain delay. The thrilling match came down to the tiebreaker in No. 1 doubles with James Langford and Dmitry Novikov squeezing out the 9-7 win to lift the Islanders to a 4-3 victory. Nagy is powering the men’s team with an 8-1 record in No. 1 singles while Guillaume Rauseo is 8-2 in singles play, including a 7-1 record at No. 3 singles. Both Nagy and Rauseo are on a seven-match winning streak. In doubles play, the freshman-senior duo of Westmoreland and Paul Cook come into Tuesday’s match with a 4-0 record in the No. 2 spot. As a team the Islanders are 35-18 in singles play and 11-4 in doubles action this season. The Ragin’ Cajuns’ men’s team is 6-2 on the year with wins over Incarnate Word, UTPA, Lamar, Jackson State, UT Arlington and Xavier. Both of the losses have come against ranked opponents, No. 12 Texas A&M and No. 6 Baylor. The women’s team comes into Tuesday’s match with a 3-3 record after wins over Jackson State, Southern and Xavier. The Ragin’ Cajuns are coming off a 4-2 loss to Arkansas State. Prior to that, the team fell to UTSA and Texas State. “Louisiana-Lafayette men’s and women’s teams are teams we truly respect for how they always battle hard and we are looking for a great battle tomorrow,” Moore added. For all the latest on Islanders Tennis, like the team on Facebook (IslandersTennis) and follow them on Twitter and Instagram (@ IslandersTennis). image courtesy of Atomic Taco

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ISLAND WAVES

02.20.2014