Volume 25 Issue 24

Fighting Cancer University lab receives donation

Hispanic Heritage month

PAGE 6

Beau Hester presents the check to Dr. Magesh Thiyagarajan, director of the Plasma Research Lab.

by MARYANN SHRAMKO contributing writer

D

r. Magesh Thiyagarajan, Director of the Plasma Research Lab, Texas A&M—Corpus Christi, accepted a $30,000 check at the 2nd annual “Be Bold Glow Gold Family 5K Run” held Aug. 30, adding childhood cancer research to the university’s resume.

The research is being made possible by Brooke’s Blossoming Hope For Childhood Cancer Awareness foundation and the more than 400 runners and walkers that registered.

Seven— year— old Brooke Hester was diag-

nosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma in 2010, when she was just 3 and a half years old. On constant search for a cure, her mother Jessica came across the Cold Plasma research taking place here at the Island University and made it a point to meet the research team in the hopes of hearing that childhood cancer was being included in the research.

Immediately upon hearing that it was not part of the research she asked what it would take to do it.

Thiyagarajan replied $30,000.

With an annual Brooke’s Blossoming Hope 5k fundraiser fast approaching, Jessica sprang into action and challenged the race committee

photo by MARYANN SHRAMKO

to raise the money needed. The efforts paid off and, with the help of a matching donation from the Arms Wide Open foundation, the committee raised more than the 30,000 needed.

“This community is really something special,” said Beau Hester, Brooke’s father peering out over the crowd gathered at the 5K run, eyes filling with tears. “From the bottom of my heart we can’t thank you enough.”

As the evening came to a close, Hester presented Thiyagarajan with the $30,000 needed for the university’s new research in the form of a very large check.

New art exhibit at the Weil gallery PAGE 8

Scotlanders forever

see CANCER RESEARCH on page 3

Islanders still affected by study abroad program

by JARRETTOBY LEWIS contributing writer

O

n July 4, twenty-eight Islanders chose to show their patriotism by watching the Independence Day fireworks pop and sparkle over Newark, New Jersey’s darkened skyline as they left the country headed for Scotland.

The following day they arrived in Midlothian, Scotland at the steps of the Dalkeith Palace, and began their first day of Texas A&M University—Corpus Christi Scotland Study Abroad Program. Over the course of the next month, they experienced all the joys of studying abroad. They made new friends, enemies and frenemies. Some found lovers and some

found haters. However, none could deny that no amount of hater gossip and shallow whispers reverberating through the thin palace walls could prevent the program from being anything less than the single best experience of their young lives.

“It wasn’t just a cultural shift in terms of the people, you know? It was a different landscape. Cobblestone streets, weather that didn’t feel like you were literally being broiled, and so much green and thriving plant life. Nothing was like Texas. Nothing,” said Mitchell Cobb, senior.

On Aug. 1, these students touched back down on American soil relieved to be home and excited for the sweet embrace of Whataburger. Several weeks have passed since then,

the jet lag has faded, and they have once again acclimated to Corpus Christi’s humidity and heat, but there is a longing that is still nibbling at these students.

“The trip sparked my wanderlust. I didn’t know it before, but now I do. I love to travel,” said Kaitlin Hibbs, who graduated a week after returning from Scotland. “But, for now, just going back to Scotland would be good enough to be honest.”

As it turns out, Hibbs shared this sentiment with a number of other students. Many of the students who participated in the program find themselves struggling to completely readjust to their old lifestyle before their month abroad.

Fencing club PAGE 11

see SCOTLANDERSon page 5

INDEX EDITORIAL 2 | NEWS 3-4 | FEATURES 5-6 | ENTERTAINMENT 7-9 | SPORTS 10-11 | ADS 12

VOLUME 25, ISSUE 24

2

editorial ISLAND WAVES

a student publication of

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

island waves staff CONNER TICHOTA editor-in-chief

MARIAM AMAYA

advertising manager

JUSTIN VU NGUYEN

advertising assistant

AUBREY DANCER layout editor

THI NGUYEN

layout assistant

JAMIE FINK

news reporter

TREY SEAL

entertainment reporter

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sports reporter

MARK MARTINEZ

distribution manager

WENDY MOORE faculty adviser

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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.

09.25.2014

From fish to fisherman

Incoming freshmen surveyed for advice

by DR. D. CULBERTSON contributing writer

I

t seems strange to write a column that conveys advice from freshman to other freshman about how to get acquainted with their new life at a university campus, but in some ways, these bits of information can help any new student navigate campus life.

These suggestions may be helpful to students who move on-campus after spending time in an apartment. The tips below comes from a list compiled from an English 0399 class and is sorted by the popularity of each response.

The number one response was make friends.

Of the 100 students surveyed, this advice was held as one the most important things students can do when they first hit the campus. Many added ways to get this done including, form a study group in each class, speak to new people, go to freshmen events and be involved.

Some of the responses qualified these new friends. For example, “avoid bad friends” further explained as “make friends who think school is important,” and “have fun without alcohol and drugs”. One of the responses included the advice about getting to know your professor and asking questions. Knowing the professor can open doors. Also professors can help clarify information from their classes that can be confusing. Making the campus comfortable also means knowing the location of the buildings, so “carry a map of the campus” made the top of the list.

The next category of advice centered on study habits. From reading to assignments, these life lessons follow the old adage: procrastination is not a friend. From there, the students added keeping up with reading is important.

One suggestion for that is to have an area designated for reading that matches your learning style. Meaning, some students need to have a quiet place to curl up and read their assignments and others are most comfortable with a group of students that reading assignments then discuss concepts.

Whatever the circumstance of the environment for study, “do your assignments” was high on the list.

Personally I love the idea that “finding a goal in every class” is one high ranking response. From “use an organizer” to “check Blackboard frequently,” students are clear that “be serious”, “time to be a grown-up” is a high priority for becoming a successful college student.

Just a note from a professor….CASA is there to help, the staff is always welcoming and the building is full of students who are studying. With the study

Tips for International Students

by JIEUN LEE international student

Every year, every semester, the number of international students who are becoming Islanders is growing. However, many international students have difficulty adapting to a new culture. There can be many ways to do well, but the most important is being courageous. Be brave and speak to other students. This is the fastest way to hang out with others. By making many friends in this way, you can not only enjoy your campus life, but also reduce your homesickness and adapt. Be brave. You can make it.

habits clear, remember that taking care of health and welfare is also high priority.

“Work out” and “eat healthy” were two quotes that topped the personal care category on many freshman lists. Seen the gym? The campus workout spot is great for meeting others with like workout preferences and if a workout class is a better option, then there are many available at the Dugan Wellness Center.

Eating is a large part of being healthy, so several students share that there is more than Subway on campus. Eateries are nestled inside many of the buildings. For the students who prefer freshly made or country specific cuisine, several students suggest buying food and learning how to cook. The idea of learning to cook is a life-long skill that should pique the creative cooking geniuses in many students.

What does happen when mustard is added onto baked chicken?

Whatever becomes a specialty in the kitchen or a favorite in the eateries, one huge student reminder is to never skip meals, and remember to eat lunch.

Apparently lunch is the most frequently skipped meal.

Being at a personal best, means students are comfortable in themselves. So be comfortable.

Since the weather is so hot, it isn’t a surprise to see “stay hydrated” and “carry water with you” on the list. Being comfortable also means learning to dress in layers. In the winter, the same advice works. Lots of layers are prudent in the winter and light layers

in the summer will keep students comfortable. Of course, layers mean learning how to do laundry.

Students suggest that Sunday is the best day go to the laundry mat with others for safety.

So, while comfort is important, safety is paramount. Top of the chart answers included never walk somewhere alone and use the buddy system to move about the campus, especially at night. This bit of advice is a great life-skill.

One student’s sole advice centers around the “critters” here on campus. He warns that garbage should go out directly to the large receptacles. If left by the apartment door, it is possible that the first neighbor to see in the morning is a possum or skunk.

First, they are more afraid of people then people are of them. Skunks spray a disgusting spray when feeling afraid. This is a smell one will never forget and it dissipates slowly. To avoid the problem, take the trash all the way out to the large collection bin.

The other common critters are the cats. They are a part of the campus.

Student financial advice includes use the easy refund card, spend wisely and check your apartment for broken things, listing the issues before moving in. It is extremely important to review financial documents for accuracy and be early to events where a purchase is required. For ease of bookstore shopping, make certain you get the right books.

Be happy, be well, and be successful. Each one of these is in your control.

Island Waves

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news

09.25.2014

ISLAND WAVES

continued from page 1

CANCER RESEARCH

“It is a great honor and I humbly accept this toward the research done at Texas A & M—Corpus Christi,” said Thiyagarajan. “This is our new venture, to look at pediatric cancer and that is the purpose of our research, working on cancer.”

With almost two weeks remaining in Sept., Childhood Cancer Awareness Month it’s not too late to participate in raising awareness for the need for more research.

In fact, on Sept. 27, the Corpus Christi Ice Rays will be dedicating their home opener to Brooke’s Blossoming Hope For Childhood Cancer Awareness foundation. Come on out and help fill the 8,000 seats available. It’s a win for Children’s Cancer Research and a win for the Islander Plasma Research Lab. “Our lab and research is open to the community so please come and take a look,” Thiyagarajan said.

Brooke Hester visits the Plasma Research Center at the Island University.

photo by MARYANN SHRAMKO

University celebrates Hector P. Garcia’s life

New scholarship announced STAFF REPORTS

by TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY- CORPUS CHRISTI

T

he Texas A&M University—Corpus Christi Mexican American Studies Program, and the Division of Student Engagement and Success celebrated Dr. Hector P. Garcia’s official state holiday with a one-hour program held Sept. 17, in the O’Connor Building.

“We’re honored to have 50—year Tejano star, Linda Escobar, and Dr. Garcia’s daughter, Cecilia, to help celebrate his memory and the contributions he made to the Hispanic culture on this official state holiday,” Dr. Anthony Quiroz said.

Quiroz is a professor of history, who organized the event.

Escobar opened the event by singing songs in Garcia’s honor. Cecilia Garcia Akers then offered an overview of her father’s work throughout his life.

She closed the event by announcing a new annual scholarship called the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Scholarship, worth $5,000 for an academic year. It was established through the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Foundation to promote education in the good doctor’s memory.

“I want everyone to know what an incredible man my father was,” Akers said. “He

was completely unselfish and made so many sacrifices so that we all could have a better life.”

In 2009, the Texas legislature passed a resolution making the third Wednesday in September “Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day”. The World War II veteran founded the American G.I. Forum. He and the new organization rose to national prominence after the war when Rice Funeral home in Three Rivers, Texas, refused to hold the wake for Army Pvt. Felix Longoria, who had died in the Philippines. Garcia became involved and the incident sparked the Mexican American civil rights movement.

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan awarded Garcia the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor bestowed on a civilian. Six years later, Pope John Paul II awarded him the Equestrian Order of Pope Gregory the Great. In April 2010, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution recognizing Garcia’s historic contributions to the Hispanic community and his efforts to combat racial and ethnic discrimination.

Following his death, Garcia’s official papers were donated to the Island University and are a centerpiece of the special collections and archives department of the Mary and Jeff Bell Library.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ACHIEVE PARTNER

To learn more or become an Achieve Partner please visit achievepartnership.tamucc.edu Escobar sings to the audience gathered to celebrate Garcia’s life.

photo courtesy of TAMUCC.EDU

news 4

09.25.2014

Nominations are due ISLAND WAVES

Deadline for Corpus Christi under 40 award recipients coming up

photo courtesy of TAMUCCMARCOM

Recipients of the 2013 Corpus Christi under 40 awards.

STAFF REPORTS

by TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-CORPUS CHRISTI

T

exas A&M University—Corpus Christi and Corpus Christi Under 40 (CCU40) are now accepting nominations for the ninth annual “40-Under-40” awards. These awards recognize young professionals who have made significant contributions in their professional fields as well as through service in the community.

Nominations are being accepted through Friday, Oct. 3, for the award which each year honors the accomplishments of 40 professionals under the age of 40 who are dedicated to making a difference in Corpus Christi. Next month, a selection committee comprised of former CCU40 recipients will finalize the list.

Those selected will be recognized Tuesday, Jan.

27, 2015 at the Mayor’s Breakfast.

This year’s steering committee is co-chaired by past CCU40 recipients Omar Lopez and Heidi Hovda.

Lopez, who was honored in 2008, received his Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and worked as the Director of Development and Communications for the American Red Cross for two years until accepting his current position as Sr. Communications Consultant for American Electric Power in Oct. 2008.

Hovda, who was honored in 2009, received her Bachelor of Arts in English from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and is the current Director of Special Events and Social Media for Corpus Christi Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.

She has served on several boards and is a community and arts advocate for Corpus Christi.

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Island Waves Student Newspaper

5

features

09.25.2014

FACULTY spotlight:

by CONNER TICHOTA editor in chief

T

he department of Physics and Environmental Science at Texas A&M University—Corpus Christi welcomed a new chairperson and faculty this fall semester, Dr. Richard Coffin.

Coffin graduated from the University of New Hampshire with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in microbiology. He completed a doctorate in oceanography at the University of Delaware. Prior to transferring to the Island University, Coffin spent 15 years working with the Naval Research Lab. “We are in a situation now where there is great opportunity to develop a lot of what we’ve done educationally,” Coffin said.

“Through the course of it, I have made all over the world academic contacts and scientific contacts. There are programs that I can bring

in here to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi for students and graduate students.”

Coffin is currently involved with research regarding the geochemical evaluation of methane gas in coastal ecosystems. Essentially, this research focuses on the importance of methane and its impact on the surrounding environments. The various sources of methane Coffin has researched, including areas off the coast of Chile, New Zealand and the Gulf of Mexico, are thought to have an important role in climate change as well as being a potential energy resource.

Studies have shown that methane plays a large role in the ocean’s ecosystem as well.

“I have a movie that I show students and adults. [It shows] a submarine and a big shark, about 20 feet long, bumps the submarine down 600 meters deep,” Coffin said. “And the point of that is to show everybody is that the shark is down there because of the food chain down there and methane is driving it… It’s like

ISLAND WAVES

Dr. Richard Coffin sunlight is up here on the surface.”

Though numerous studies have been conducted on methane, Coffin said there is still far more research to be done.

“We don’t understand how much methane there is, but there is a lot of it,” he said.

Coffin has been involved with this particular branch of research for 14 years.

“Love going to sea, love chemistry, and the topics that we are working on now are a very healthy combination of science that people don’t know,” Coffin said.

Coffin hopes to incorporate this research with programs for students. Some of these programs included studies centered on climate change and energy exploration, both land and sea based.

Coffin emphasized the research opportunities available to students.

“I would like to get kids with me out to sea,” he said. “One of the best events I ever had with students out at sea, is I used to do a lot

continued from PAGE 1

SCOTLANDERS

photo courtesy of CASSIDY SCOTT

A group of Islanders taking in Scottish history while simultaneously climbing all over it.

And who could blame them? The students enjoyed weather that never exceeded 80 degress and free bus passes to Edinburgh where a slew of activities and adventures awaited. Students could walk the Royal Mile and visit the Edinburgh Castle or the Queen’s Palace. They could climb 822 feet to the peak of Arthur’s Seat or they could simply stand around watching street performers and then quietly shuffle away when they start asking for tips.

The students appreciated more than just Scotland’s recreational opportunities and beautiful environment.

“I loved everywhere I went, Edinburgh, the Highlands, London, but even if we had just stayed at the palace, I still would have had an amazing experience,” Cassidy Bennett, senior, said.

The palace provided a communal living space where the 28 students slept, ate and studied together. The majority of the students lived along the same hall, so bonding took

of submarine dives out in the deep ocean and being chief science [officer] out there I could always make sure they had time to go down on the subs... if they went down they were committed for life.”

Coffin advised students interested in the scientific field to focus on their studies.

“Stay heavy in basic physics, chemistry and biology the first go-around. With that board education, you’ll have the capability to select and be qualified for what you want to go to grad school… and English. Know how to write,” Coffin said.

Along with his own ideas, Coffin expressed excitement over other programs taking place at the Island University.

“I think this is a fantastic opportunity,” Coffin said. “I am excited for the Lonestar [UAS] program and I’m excited to see how we can start to put together the oceanography I do with the Lonestar program.”

place within a matter of days. The palace had two movie rooms, a pool table, a ping-pong table, and acres upon acres of land on which the students could lollygag about.

The students organized games of capture the flag, a breakfast taco sale and simple movie nights. Of course, there was the academic focus of the program, and small groups of students could be found gathered in the library ignoring the “please be quiet” sign at any given hour of the day. Laughter and playful banter often filled the halls of Dalkeith Palace, and Bennett’s statement does not simply address the fact that the palace was an exciting and eventful place, but also that the people in the palace were making the palace that way.

Senior Raine Gregus noted the striking emptiness of her home when she returned in comparison to life at the palace.

“In the palace, you couldn’t turn a corner without finding somebody,” she said. “If you sat somewhere long enough, someone would

come across you, and then, bam, off to lunch or the movie room or Edinburgh.”

Despite claiming her need to be alone from time to time, when she wasn’t re-centering herself along one of Dalkeith’s nature trails, Gregus appreciated the heavily social aspect of palace life.

“Now that I’m back, I don’t have the same access to my friends. I have to put up with traffic and be in the heat before I can get to them,” Gregus said. “Point is: I miss Scotland.”

Of course, missing Scotland and the friends made there was to be expected, but some of the students were not prepared for the magnitude.

“I check what time it is in Dalkeith sometimes,” Hibbs said.

Back home in the states, all of the program participants have returned to their busy lives as students with jobs, which makes coordinating breakfast taco sales and Disney movie nights a little more challenging. The South Tex-

as sun challenges anyone to play capture the flag or casually walk the city for an extended period of time.

The differences are striking now that they have returned. It has become apparent that what they loved was more than Scotland’s natural beauty, tourist attractions and wonderful weather, and it was more than the lively group of students and the shared space of the Dalkeith Palace that they brought to life.

It was a combination of all of these elements that created something the students were only able to experience by having decided to spend a summer abroad. The students’ post-Scotland slump has helped to retrospectively highlight just how much the students cherished their experience. Their current sadness is just a reminder of their blissfulness in Scotland, and once the sadness fades, they will be left only with the sublime memories of a once-in-alifetime summer.

features 6

09.25.2014

ISLAND WAVES

by JAMIE FINK news reporter

O

n Sept. 16, Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi celebrated the kickoff to Hispanic Heritage Month. The Hispanic Heritage Month events will run from Sept. 15, to Oct. 15.

The Island University will began its kickoff by the Islander Cultural Alliance on Sept. 16, featuring a live performance by local artists Latin Talk, piñata challenges, and tasty food.

People began observing Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under Lyndon B. Johnson and the tradition was later expanded upon by Ronald Reagan in 1988. Under Reagan it was enacted

into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Pubic Law. Hispanic Heritage Month is a 30-day period beginning on September 15 and ending on October 15. During this period Americans observe and celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Sept. 15 is not only important because it is the kickoff of HHM, but it is also the day that Mexico celebrates its independence.

It is day celebrated to help keep alive the Mexican culture and way of life. Here is a full list of activities and events remaining for both students and the public to partake in.

(top) Musicians play for students and attendees during the opening ceremony of Hispanic Heritage Month. (bottom left) Guests enjoy food and festivities. (bottom right) Student volunteers create decorations for the event.

Calendar of events Thursday, Sept. 25 – Latin Dance Night: The Multicultural Greek Council and Islander Cultural Alliance will dance the night away during a “Latin Ballroom Dance Night” on Thursday, Sept. 25, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. in the Hector P. Garcia Plaza to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. This event will include music, dance lessons and snacks.

•Saturday, Sept. 27 – Hispanic Heritage Concert Series: The Music Department presents its second concert series to celebrate our Hispanic heritage. This second concert, ¡Vivan Los Niños!, will take place on Saturday, Sept.

27, at 5 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. The concert will feature a performance by young talented musicians from our community. Join in a fun sing along of Las Mañanitas at the end of the presentation and honor the Hispanic heritage and culture through the music performed by these talented children.

•Wednesday, Oct. 1; Tuesday, Oct. 7; and Monday, Oct. 13 – Hispanic Film Series: The Spanish Program in the College of Liberal Arts and Dr. Cristina Ortiz will host a free screening films from a variety of countries in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Films will be shown Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 4:30 p.m. in Center for Instruction, room 128; Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m. in Island Hall, room 164; and Monday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m. in Island Hall, room 164.

•Wednesday, Oct. 1 – Loteria: The Islander Cultural Alliance and the University Center Commons Programming will host a big game of Loteria on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 6 p.m. in the Hector P. Garcia Plaza. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage and play some Mexican bingo.

•Thursday, Oct. 2 – Hispanic Poetry Reading: Join professors, Dr. Javier Villarreal and Mr. Juan M. Pérez, for a Poetry Reading to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Thursday, Oct. 2, from 2 to 3 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the Mary and Jeff Bell Library. The two poets will read in both English and Spanish their latest works, from romantic poetry to Chupacabra Haikus.

•Thursday, Oct. 2 – Hispanics in STEM: SOAR will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with “Hispanics in STEM” on Thursday, Oct. 2, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the University Center, Lone Star Ballroom 142. SOAR will host a walk-through exhibit featuring Hispanic contributions to the sciences throughout history. The event will also highlight the Hispanic struggle for equal educational opportunities and continue with the major contributions of Hispanic scientists to all areas of the scientific community.

•Monday, Oct. 6, through Friday, Oct. 10 – First Year Writing Exhibitors: The First Year Islanders (FYI) Writing Exhibit will be held from Monday, Oct. 6, through Friday, Oct. 10, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Faculty Center Atrium as part of the Hispanic Heritage Month events. This exhibit will showcase the narratives of diverse students in the First Year Composition and First Year Seminar to show the writing style of students.

•Tuesday, Oct. 7 – Hispanic Health Fair: The College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the Student Nurses Association will hold a Health Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 7, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Dugan Wellness Center as part of Hispanic Heritage Month. Nursing students and faculty will check blood pressure, BMI and blood sugar, A1c and cholesterol levels (first 50), and offer educational information on diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. There will also be a healthy cooking demonstration by the Texas A&M Health Science Center’s Coastal Bend Health Education Center.

photos by JAMIE FINK

•Thursday, Oct. 9 – Read-A-Thon: The Spanish Program in the College of Liberal Arts and Dr. Melissa Culver will host a Read-A-Thon on Thursday, Oct. 9, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center lobby. Faculty, staff and students will read short excerpts of literary works by Spanish, Spanish American, •Tuesday, Oct. 7 – Gay Latino L.A.: Coming and U.S. Latino authors. of Age: The Gay Straight Alliance will host a •Monday, Sept. 15, through Wednesday, screening of the film “Gay Latino L.A.: Coming of Age” in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month Oct. 15 – Hispanic Heritage Month Display: on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 6:30 p.m. in the Islander The Mary and Jeff Bell Library will join the Welcome Center. The film is a docu-drama campus-wide celebration of Hispanic Heritage journey into adulthood of three young men Month with displays throughout the library and their search for identity while dealing with during the month from Monday, Sept. 15, issues of family, hyper masculinity, religion, through Wednesday, Oct. 15, with books, films and other resources that highlight the rich and culture and life in Los Angeles. diverse influence of the Hispanic and Latino •Thursday, Oct. 9 – Borderlands Conference: community.

Graduate students from the University of •Monday, Sept. 15, through Wednesday, Texas-El Paso, the University of Texas-San Antonio, Michigan State University and Arizona Oct. 15 – Hispanic Heritage Month Resources: State University will present on their current The Mary and Jeff Bell Library has created an research in the areas of culture, literature online Guide for Hispanic Heritage Month and rhetoric of the border at the Borderlands (Monday, Sept. 15, through Wednesday, Oct. Conference on Thursday, Oct. 9, in Performing 15). The guide offers access to books, journals, Arts Center lobby. The first session will be databases, teaching resources and more. Check held from 11 a.m. to noon. The second session out library resources that celebrate Hispanic at http://tamucc.libguides.com/ will be held from 2-3 p.m. Participants will heritage offer 15-minute presentations followed by a HHM2014.

10-minute question-and-answer period during each of two sessions. The event will be hosted

by Dr. Eduardo Ruiz.

7

entertainment

09.25.2014

ISLAND WAVES

LIVE WITH

REGIS

Philbin having a good laugh with the kids of the Ronald Mcdonald House.

Entertainment icon visits Corpus Christi

by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

O

n Sept. 11, entertainment legend Regis Philbin visited the city of Corpus Christi.

Philbin was in town to host the Ronald Mcdonald House’s annual Casa De Amor charity event. He walked into the main area of the Ronald Mcdonald house to a crowd of cameramen, reporters, and child beneficiaries he was helping to support.

As a representative began to lead him around the facility, Philbin began to joke around with every person who crossed his path.

“When you get a show like I had for all these years, you get calls from people who need a little help in getting support for their cause. It does nothing but good for everybody involved,” Philbin said.

He claimed that out of all the shows that he’s worked on, “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” was one of his favorites.

“I loved the fact that somebody was going to win a million dollars,” Philbin said. “ When they tried to turn it into an afternoon, everyday show I had to turn it down, but I loved the show and I’m glad that I got to be a part of it.”

Philbin claims that his success in the entertainment business was the result of a fluke.

“I just drove up to Hollywood one day [from New York] and found a job driving around Hollywood,” Philbin said. “I would run around picking up television show film reels and returning them to their distributor.”

Philbin, feeling unfulfilled told his uncle, a CBS Press Agent about his aspirations to be on television. His uncle got him his first job on the Tonight Show in 1955. On the Tonight Show, Philbin was in charge of seating guests and cites that seeing Allen rousing the audience made him realize that he wanted to be a host.

So how does a man who always seems to be in such high spirits keep his positive attitude?

“I wish I could keep that attitude up all the time,” Philbin said whilst laughing. “When I’m around people, I feel like I owe them this. Be bright, be happy, and maybe I’ll make them happy too. That’s what I like about my show, it feels good to me.”

Philbin worked as a television host for a total of 38 years before retiring at the age of 80 in 2011. “Yeah, I miss it from time to time, I wonder why I gave it up. I did it 28 straight years in New York and then ten before that in Los Angeles,” Philbin said.

Philbin couldn’t have been more friendly.

The man has the same warmth and personality that he does on his TV shows. The children at the Ronald Mcdonald house went and cuddled close to him as if he was their own grandfather.

He definitely made his visit to Corpus Christi, a memorable one.

“When I’m around people, I feel like I owe them this.

Be bright, be happy, and maybe I’ll make them happy too” - Regis Philbin

Philbin’s excited personality coming out during the interview.

photos by TREY SEAL

entertainment 8

09.25.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Agitating device: Agitating device is meant to resemble a large soil tiller. Its composed of Cypress, Iron, and Steel.

Investigating device: cast iron and cypress.

Provoking device: cast iron and cypress.

Pierce (top) and Divide (bottom) are made from aluminum and enamel paint.

MECHANICAL NATURE

Kurt Dyrhaug showcases artwork at university gallery

by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

M

etal is all around from cars to chairs and everything in between. Kurt Dyrhaug, a professor of sculpture at Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas created an exhibit out of this medium called Wood|Iron|Steel.

Dyrhaug’s exhibition is currently on display in the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi School of Fine Arts’ Weil Gallery until Oct. 10.

Each work in the galley is composed of these three base components in addition to paint on some pieces. The craftsmanship on display is bold and intricate, harkening back to a simpler time before mass production factories arrived to produce more product for less cost.

One piece, named “Agitating Device” is reminiscent of a large soil tiller with dual rows of metal teeth facing towards each other. The variety of pieces on display is abstract in design and reflects a variety of shapes and composition styles.

Dyrhaug said his small pieces reflect the larger designs of industrial equipment. He said the shapes and forms were exciting to him as a child.

“The smaller size makes them seem more playful, more nostalgic,” Dyrhaug said. “They reference these kind of toy forms like Tonka trucks or Hot Wheels and the way they would become distressed over time.”

Dyrhaug is an alumni of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design where he graduated with a bachelor of fine arts degree in printmaking.

“I took my first sculpture class as a senior and one of the first projects was a contest to have a piece cast at an industrial foundry,” Dyrhaug said.

He claimed that this experience was a revolutionary one that pointed him on his creative path.

“I knew nothing about cast metal at the time, that first experience had me hooked. The whole melting of the metal,

making the mold, the smell and the smoke, I’ve been working with it ever since,” Dyrhaug said.

Working with metal is an intricate process that requires a high level of precision.

Dyrhaug’s process begins with a pattern which he designs through threedimensional computer software.

I take the pattern and then shape it into

Plow: Plow the field is completely made out of Iron and was coated with enamel paint.

styrofoam. Once the pattern is built, I then make a sand mold. The sand becomes hard with the use of chemicals,” Dyrhaug said.

This is followed by removing the styrofoam which creates a cavity. Metal is poured into the mold where it proceeds to cool.

“I break the metal out of the mold and then begin to shave the unnecessary bits from the piece followed by brushing it with chemicals to make it rust,” Dyrhaug said.

He does a lot of his casting at Lamar University in addition to doing some work at a cast iron foundry in Houston.

“Follow your heart and if you like making, you like

building, whatever it may be. Follow your heart and good things will happen,” Dyrhaug said.

Dyrhaug’s Wood|Iron|Steel exhibit can be seen between 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday on the 1st floor of the Center of the Arts until Oct. 10.

photos by TREY SEAL

photos and info courtesy of MOVIEINSIDER.COM

09.25.2014

ENTERTAINMENT calender

9

entertainment ISLAND WAVES

movies

Men, Women & Children The film follows the story of a group of high school teenagers and their parents as they attempt to navigate the many ways the Internet has changed their relationships, their communication, their self-image and their love lives. The film attempts to stare down social issues such as video game culture, anorexia, infidelity, fame hunting and the proliferation of illicit material on the Internet. As each character and each relationship is tested, we are shown the variety of roads people choose - some tragic, some hopeful - as it becomes clear that no one is immune to this enormous social change that has come through our phones, our tablets and our computers.

Oct. 1 - R

cd releases

Annabelle

Gone Girl On the occasion of his fifth wedding anniversary, Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck) reports that his beautiful wife, Amy (Rosamund Pike), has gone missing. Under pressure from the police and a growing media frenzy, Nick’s portrait of a blissful union begins to crumble. Soon his lies, deceits and strange behavior have everyone asking the same dark question: Did Nick Dunne kill his wife?

Oct. 3 - R

They were known simply as “The Lost Boys.”

Orphaned by the brutal Civil war in Sudan that began in 1983, these young victims traveled as many as a thousand miles on foot in search of safety. Fifteen years later, a humanitarian effort would bring 3600 lost boys and girls to America. In The Good Lie, Philippe Falardeau brings the story of their survival and triumph to life.

Oct. 3 - PG-13

Sept. 30

Ani DiFranco - Allergic To Water Boogarins - As Plantas Que Curam Curtin - Doghearted Gerald Way - Hesitant Alien Jeremith - Late Nights: The Album Paul White - Shaker Notes Prince - Art Official Age Raul Midon - Don’t Hesitate Witch Mountain - Mobile Of Angels Yelle - Completement Fou

Oct. 6

A Winged Victory for the Sullen - Atomos

Iceage - Plowing Into the Field of Love Sivu - Something On High

Oct. 7

Bass Drum of Death - Rip This

Bonobo - The North Borders Tour Live Caribou - Our Love Dark Blue - Pure Reality Ex Hex - Rips photos and info courtesy of METACRITIC.COM

The Good Lie

Flying Lotus - You’re Dead!

High Ends - Super Class Jackson Browne - Standing in the Breach

Jessica Campbell - III Minus the Bear - Lost Loves Yellowcard - Lift A Sail

John Form has found the perfect gift for his expectant wife, Mia - a beautiful, rare vintage doll in a pure white wedding dress. But Mia’s delight with Annabelle doesn’t last long. On one horrific night, their home is invaded by members of a satanic cult, who violently attack the couple. Spilled blood and terror are not all they leave behind. The cultists have conjured an entity so malevolent that nothing they did will compare to the sinister conduit to the damned that is now... Annabelle.

Oct. 3 - R

sports 10

Islander sport fans

09.25.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Rugby club prepares to kick off

by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

T

he sports clubs at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi vary widely. One of the active sports clubs is a rugby club.

“Rugby is a free-flowing game that features a combination of strength, speed and strategy”, Shane Smith, a member of the rugby team, said. “[The object is] to move a ball into an opponent’s territory. Rugby is a full-contact sport, yet players wear little or no protective gear,” Smith said.

Smith said the club has been in existence for around two years. The club typically squares off against other rugby squads from around the Corpus Christi area.

The events for the rugby club are in

partnership with the Corpus Christi Crabs, the local rugby club. Matches are usually held on Saturdays at 2 p.m., either in Corpus Christi, or in a city around the Corpus Christi area.

Smith is the founder of the rugby club at the Island University. He also had the chance to play some matches with the Crabs prior to starting the club.

“Playing with the Corpus Christi Crabs really inspired me to push to spread rugby to others that attend [the University],” Smith said.

Rugby is not a sport that has found a strong following in the United States. The sport does have a rich history, and is mostly tied to the continent of Europe. Much like other sports, the exact country of origin is a topic still up for debate. However, according to several websites, such as www.rugbyfootballhistory. com, the popular story is that the sport was invented by William Webb Ellis, of England, in

1823. This origin story is popular enough that there is even an internationally given trophy named after Ellis.

Rugby is quite physical in nature. There is more to the game than physicality, however.

“Rugby does [require] some physical nature, but mostly, it’s [about] ball handling and syncing up with your teammates,” Smith said.

As with any sport, there are many positions that people may play on a rugby team.

“The position I play is winger,” Smith said.

“Basically, I’m the guy out on the sideline that gets passed out to, and I’m relied on to outrun the opposing players and score a try”.

In rugby terms, a try is similar to a touchdown in American football.

It is only natural for people that are unfamiliar with rugby might not be initially attracted to the idea of playing the sport.

“[If you think you are interested in playing rugby], come out to the practices and get a feel for it, and make a decision from there,” Smith said.

“Practices are held [from] 6-8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays behind Dewey’s,” Smith said. For those unfamiliar with Corpus Christi, Dewey’s is located at 2302 Rodd Field Road.

According to information from OrgSync, which is the University’s web page for the various clubs and organizations that are located on and around campus, there are memberships due that participants are required to pay. The dues are $10. Members are accepted throughout the year.

For additional information, contact Dustin Smith, the president of the club, at (806)-8932504, or via email at dsmith9801@yahoo.com.

Islanders vs. Broncos Islanders Fall to Broncos, 3-0, to Wrap Emerald Beach Islanders Classic

photo courtesy of GO ISLANDERS

Islanders women’s volleyball celebrates as they score a point.

STAFF REPORTS

by Goislanders

I

n the final match of the Emerald Beach Islanders Classic, the Texas A&M - Corpus Christi volleyball team suffered a 3-0 (25-15, 25-20, 25-22) loss to Boise State in the Dugan Wellness Center. The Broncos were led by two players in double-digit kills and a match-high .327 hitting percentage.

Haley Satterwhite Day led the Islanders’ (7-9) offense with 10 kills while Brianna Brink added nine kills and five digs. Chelby Stanford ran the offense with 26 assists and chipped in seven digs. Defensively Kate Klepetka propelled the team with 13 digs and Hailey King chipped in nine.

Boise State (7-5) came out strong in the first set to secure a 25-15 first-set victory on .500 hitting. Maddy O’Donnell hit .875 with seven kills while Sierra Nobley tallied four kills on .571 hitting. The Islanders were held to a .150 hitting percentage and were led by Satterwhite with four kills and Klepetka with seven digs.

The Broncos put together a 12-3 run to take a 16-6 lead before Satterwhite racked up a kill. Boise State’s offense then built a 21-9 lead on a 5-2 run before the Islanders rallied

back to score four straight with a pair of aces

by Ivy Baresh and kills by Ashley Phelps and Satterwhite. Boise State however held onto the lead to win 25-15.

The Islanders and Broncos went neck-andneck in the second set with 10 ties and five lead changes. Both teams rallied back-andforth before Satterwhite evened things up at 20-20 with her seventh kill of the match. Boise State then scored five straight with four kills and an Islanders’ attack error to win 25-20.

The Broncos hit .222 in the set and held the Islanders to .194 hitting.

A&M - Corpus Christi started off strong in the third set with a 12-8 lead after an ace by Brittany Gilpin. Boise State though rallied back to even things up at 13-13 and stayed with the Islanders until pushing ahead at 18-17 on an Islanders’ service error. The Islanders stayed within striking distance, and cut the lead to two with consecutive kills by Satterwhite and Brink at 24-22, but a kill by Kaitlyn Oliver closed out the set and the match at 25-22.

Satterwhite and Gilpin each earned a spot on the all-tournament team. Satterwhite recorded 3.08 kills per set in the classic with 37 kills while Gilpin registered 41 kills and 2.28 kills per set. Gilpin also racked up 16 blocks in the five matches.

11

sports

09.25.2014

ISLAND WAVES

En Garde, ready, fence The fencing club at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi is ready for the year’s activities

A portrait of the Island University fencing sport club.

by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

F

encing is “an Olympic and [globally] competitive sport,” said Ashtyn Elizondo, a member of the Texas A&M—Corpus Christi fencing club.

The sport involves the use of blades. The three blades that are most often used in fencing are called foil, saber, and epee. “[The blades] are electrically based for keeping score,” Elizondo said.

According to Elizondo, each blade [has] differences in shape, movement, [areas allowed to] strike or grab, gear needed, and even rules on who gets the point.

“Foil is a stabbing or thrusting blade. It is a lighter blade with a smaller bell guard [that has] a square bell body,” Elizondo said.

According to Elizondo, the only area that a foil blade is allowed to hit is the torso.

“Saber, a slashing and striking blade, looks like a pirate’s blade from a movie. Matches [involving] the saber blade are much quicker, since saber fencers are not known to retreat,” she said.

“Valid targets are the wrists, arms, torso, and head,” Elizondo said.

Matches involving the foil and saber blades share a common rule termed the “right of way.”

“Right of way means specific actions, strikes, fakes or parries (blocks) allow [a fencer or their opponent] to receive a point during a double touch round,” Elizondo said.

Another sword type is the epee.

“Epee, a stabbing, thrusting blade, which is slightly heavier, has a larger bell guard and a triangular shaped blade body,” Elizondo said. “[The] epee [blade] allows for the whole body to be a target.”

The reason the epee blade does not share the “right of way” rule is that if either of the fencers lands a hit on a valid epee target, he or he is credited with a point.

The fencing league was started during fall of 2009 by Jose Martinez and Megan Buchanan, and began under the guidance of Grace Buchanan. “All three [founders] were and are still passionate saber fencers, that, after losing their fencing club in Corpus Christi, wanted to continue to fence and spread the

photo courtesy of the FENCING CLUB

sport to others [throughout the University,” Elizondo said.

Many of the events throughout the year involve practicing or training with one of the three blades, especially for competitions.

“Fencing League usually competes in S.W.I.F.A, [an] intercollegiate organization that allows any fencing club at Texas universities [to] compete against each other in all three blades,” Elizondo said.

According to Elizondo, in S.W.I.F.A. competitions, each school can have up to

two teams comprised of three or four people entered into contest for each blade to compete and represent their schools. For these contests, teams are chosen by a designated team captain, who, is usually the most experienced fencer, but sometimes the position is competed for in small matches by individuals.

“Scores [in the competition] are cumulative, and [are dependent on a teammate’s score and win-loss record] to determine if the fencer will continue into direct elimination,” Elizondo said.

Practices are held in the Dugan Wellness Center 8-9:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays from in the Izzy Room on the 2nd floor, Saturdays form 11a.m.-2 p.m. at the Island Hall gym. Attire needed includes workout clothes and tennis shoes in order to warm up, complete drills, and fence on the strip.

For those interested in fencing email the club at fencing_league@yahoo.com or check them out on Facebook at Fencing League @ TAMUCC.

St. PAUL THE APOSTLE Catholic Church 2233 Waldron Rd. 361~937~3864 MASSES SATURDAY 5 p.m.

SUNDAY 8:30 a.m.

11 a.m. & 6 p.m.

stpaultheapostlecc.com

CONFESSIONS MONDAY

7:30 p.m.

(with adoration & music)

WEDNESDAY 6 p.m.

SATURDAY 3:30 p.m.

“Faith and Reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth.” St. John Paul II

Ads 12

09.25.2014

ISLAND WAVES

I Pledge to:

“Demonstrate intergrity” and “Lead with courage”

Judicialaffairs.tamucc.edu

Hispanic Heritage Month Calendar of Events

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Display Mary & Jeff Bell Library

September 15th–October 15th

Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff with ICA University Center - East Lawn

Tuesday, September 16th 11:30am–1:30pm

Hector P. Garcia State Holiday Celebration O’Connor 135

Wednesday, September 17th 1:00pm– 2:00pm

Pasarela Mexico hosted by BESO Island Hall Gym

Thursday, September 18th 6:30pm

Carribbean Night

Wednesday, September 24th 7:30pm

with the South Texas Chamber Players

Performing Arts Center Latin Dance Night with MGC and ICA Hector P. Garcia Plaza

Thursday, September 25th 6:00pm–7:30pm

¡Vivan Los Niños! Concert Performing Arts Center

Saturday, September 27th 5:00pm

Hispanic Film Series Center for Instruction 128 Island Hall 164

October 1st 4:30pm October 7th & 13th 7:00pm

Loteria with ICA Hector P. Garcia Plaza

Wednesday, October 1st 6:00pm

Hispanics in STEM: From Humble Beginnings to Reaching for the Stars Island Hall Gym

Thursday, October 2nd 9:00am– 5:00pm

Hispanic Poetry Reading The Mary & Jeff Bell Library, 2 nd Floor

Thursday, October 2nd 2:00pm–3:00pm

1st Year Writing Exhibitors Faculty Center Atrium

October 6th–October 10 th 8:00am– 5:00pm

Hispanic Health Fair Dugan Wellness Center

Tuesday, October 7th 9:00am– 12:00pm

Gay Latino L.A.: Coming of Age Screening TAMU-CC Welcome Center

Tuesday, October 7th 6:30pm

Read-A-Thon Performing Arts Center Lobby

Thursday, October 9th 12:30pm–1:30pm

Borderlands Conference Performing Arts Center Lobby

Thursday, October 9th 11:00am–12:00pm 2:00pm– 3:00pm

For more information or disability related accomodations, please contact: ica@tamucc.edu or 361.825.2539

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