Volume 25 Issue 31 by Island Waves

UC scheduled to open

University Center construction coming to a close by JAMIE FINK news reporter

ow with just five months before the original deadline for the grand opening of the University Center, the construction is closing in on completion for the campus’ hub. The UC could see student and faculty use for the first time since this August. A few student organizations and faculty offices and departments could reenter the UC as early as the beginning of the Spring 2015 semester. The UC is planning to run and operational again around mid-April or early May, according to Senior Executive Director of the UC Lisa Perez. Almost two years after the original ground breaking ceremony, the University Center could see its first activity in just two short months. “There are little things that have to be done before we can officially say that parts of the University Center will be open in January,” Perez said. “The operations staff will go in first to ensure that everything is in place, because we had to move so much stuff out for construction.” A lot of updates have taken place in the UC since students and faculty have last stepped foot inside the building. “The biggest update that has taken place with the University Center is probably the new ballroom,” Perez said. “The new ballroom, which will be called Anchor Ballroom, will be twice the size of the older ballroom.” Anchor Ballroom will be located

Look inside Dia de los Muertos

PAGE 6

The exterior walls of the two new meeting rooms being added to the UC.

in the western most part of the University Center and has been designed with partitions that allow faculty and staff to split the ballroom into four smaller event rooms when needed. Perez said there are also three more major renovations that she is excited for student and faculty to enjoy once the University Center is up and run-

photo by JAMIE FINK

ning again. “The Tejas rooms have been demolished and we are going to replace those rooms with what we are calling the Tejas Lounge,” Perez said. “Everything on the first floor has been gutted from the tile, to the jetty rooms, even the CAB offices.” see UC UPDATES on page 3

What’s the deal with Yik Yak

PAGE 9

photo courtesy of MISSLORI.TV

Presenting Battle of the Bands

Annual event held in the Dugan Wellness Center by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

magine standing tall on a stage front as an audience screams in delight. This is a dream held by the many people who aspire to enter the heavily guarded community of the entertainment industry. On Nov. 6th, 2014, many young musicians gathered in the Dugan gym competed to win the 16th Annual Texas A&M University-

Corpus Christi Battle of the Bands. Due to inclement weather, the battle moved from its usual outdoor location to the Dugan gym. A large stage with strobe lights and massive speakers ensured a spectacle of a show. Each musical group played three songs to a panel of judges hailing from local media institutions such as Z95,102.3, and the Corpus Christi Caller Times. The show opened up with Jake

Ward and the Coast Riders playing to a roaring audience of fans. With its long history, the Battle of the Bands has seen many musical trends come and go in its lifetime. However, guitar-based music has always seemed to be a mainstay when it comes to participant styles. This is due to the instruments’ versatility in regards to the various styles that can be played. see BATTLE OF THE BANDS on page 8

Inside men’s basketball

PAGE 10

VOLUME 25, ISSUE 31

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

JEREMY PAPE

sports reporter

MARK MARTINEZ

distribution manager

WENDY MOORE faculty adviser

JESSE DELEON

graduate adviser

AMY KOTULSKI staff adviser

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, e-mail or call the Island Waves editor.

Switching ISPs won’t solve students’ fury

11.13.2014

by CONNER TICHOTA editor in chief

t’s pretty common to hear students complain about their Wifi connection on campus or lack thereof. It’s almost like a rite of passage for every college student, living in the digital age, to have suffered through four years of spotty Internet service and dream of one day seeing all five bars lit. Over the past semester, Island Waves has heard more clamor than usual regarding this issue and even more pleas for Camden to change service providers. Unfortunately, changing service providers is not going to alleviate the spotty Wifi at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Island Waves acquired information from an existing survey on Strawpoll.me, an online survey creator, asking students at the Island University whether or not they would support Camden switching Internet providers. “The Internet has either been out or spotty since the school year started and many people require Internet to do homework, even when the library is closed,” the survey read. “Would you agree that Camden needs to change ISPs and use your money responsibly?” A total of 134 people participated in the survey. An overwhelming 133 participants voted yes and only one voted no. Having poor Internet connection is frustrating especially when more and more courses require an online component. However, does that necessarily mean that switching providers is the magic bullet that students wish it is? No. There are two myths that need to be debunked here. First, a student’s entire rent does not solely go towards the Internet. According to Camden Miramar’s official website, the least expensive dorms cost $5,283 yearly which breaks down to about $587 per month during the academic year. The most expensive suite style dorms cost $ 7,110 yearly, breaking down to roughly

Should Camden switch ISPs?

graphic courtesy of STRAWPOLL.ME

editorial 2

Graph illustrating results of student survey of 134 people that requested a change in Camden’s Internet provider.

$790 per month. Now according to section 12 of Camden’s terms of lease, that money covers not only rent but it also covers utilities including: electricity, gas, water, sewage, basic cable, mailbox rental and Internet. That’s pretty good considering most apartment complexes only cover water, sewage and maybe electricity. So when calculating the approximate cost of monthly Internet, it’s only a fraction of the cost that covers all of the amenities students are getting. Second the Internet is so slow because of the amount of users and user habits. This seems to be severely overlooked by students. Currently, Camden is able to house 1,790 students. That’s 1,790 students all trying to share one server at the same time and this is assuming they

are all trying to do homework at the same time. Think about it. The majority of college students have been conditioned over the years to do their homework at night after classes or during the mid-afternoon when they have a break to study. So, those who finish their homework during the afternoon spend the evening on Facebook and Netflix. Those who just want to unwind between classes are on Facebook and Netflix during the afternoon. And, everyone is killing data on Yik Yak and Twitter 24/7. So while group A is studying, group B is hogging the Wifi with social media and vice versa. That’s not a problem that’s going to be fixed by switching service providers. The same issues will pop up whether using Time Warner, AT&T or anyone in between.

If students want to see changes in their Wifi service, then changes in the user habits are the first changes that need to be made, not the service provider. It is understandable that students want the best for their buck. Just remember that in these circumstances, students are getting the best. Students living on campus are given housing, all utilities included. Most the students living off campus can’t say that. Perhaps we should be grateful that the rent is all utilities included. Perhaps we should be grateful that we have access to technology like the Internet. Think about it. Only a generation or two ago, essays would have been written on a typewriter and Netflix didn’t exist. Then what would students complain about?

news

11.13.2014

Study abroad programs set sights for Spain

by JAMIE FINK news reporter

he deadline for study abroad applications and scholarships is closing soon. Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi is preparing for it’s return to Scotland in the summer of 2015 as well as preparing many new locations for Islanders to study abroad including Spain. The program titled Islanders in Spain will offer students the opportunity to expose their selves to a new culture and environment that is significantly different from their own everyday lives. “I am excited about our opportunity to expose our students to traveling abroad as I feel traveling contributes to learning and broadens perspectives on the world,” Island University professor Dr. Pamela Meyer said. Meyer will teach an Introduction to Sociology course, Human Societies, in Spain. Islanders in Spain will be living and studying in Valladolid, Spain. Valladolid is the 13th most populous city and northwestern Spain’s biggest city. Valladolid was chosen for its rich history, its vibrant cultural life and its privileged geographical location. Valladolid has a great combination of tradition and modernity, which makes it an ideal location for the Spain Study Abroad Program. “The reason why Spain was chosen is because, aside from being a country that I know very well, and love, it can offer something new and exciting for everybody: music, art, literature, history, nature, cuisine,” professor Melissa Culver said. “I’m very excited to be part of this program. We have great things planned for this trip, and I am very interested to see what the students’ reactions to all of these

wonderful places will be.” Culver will teach Spanish Literature I, which is part of the core curriculum. “This is going to be a really exiting course, because we will actually be able to see all the different places that are mentioned in our readings,” Culver said. “I think that by being able to establish these connections that will help make the text more alive and much easier for the students to understand.” Islanders in Spain will also allow students the chance to get out and explore Spain through academic excursions. Students will be able to see and experience places that most of the time they only learn about in books. “Students will be visiting the city of Toledo, which is not only the original site of the Three Cultures [Muslim, Jewish and Christian,] our theme for this year,” Culver said. “Then, we’ll go to the region of Andalucía, where we will see Córdoba, Sevilla and Granada. Córdoba and Sevilla are must-see cities in Spain. In Granada we’ll see the Alhambra, a palace that dates back to the year 900 A.D., and is the most visited monument in Spain. And we’ll finish with Don Quijote’s windmills in the region of Castilla-La Mancha.” They will also be able to meet new people and make new friends as the students and professors will be staying with host families. “Traveling abroad ignited a curiosity and a passion to know more about other people, other cultures, and world events,” Meyer said. For students wanting to study abroad, there are a few steps to take to make sure that studying abroad is their best option. First visit with an academic adviser. Academic advisers will help look over the student’s degree plan and work out whether

photo illustration by CONNER TICHOTA

ISLAND WAVES

A map illustrating some of the areas students will visit while in Spain during the summer study abroad 2015.

the courses available are a good fit. The next step is to visit the Study Abroad Programs Resource Center. They will have all the information on every study abroad program offered and they will also have applications for scholarships that may be available for students to apply for. “If you are thinking of signing up for the Islanders in Spain study abroad program, make sure to contact your professors ahead of time to inform

UC UPDATES The university is also adding a Student Involvement Center to the UC. This area will be designated to the abundant student organizations and where they will operate. However, Perez said that this area will not be opening until the grand opening in mid-April. “With all the additions and new things going into the UC, I do not believe that any offices or departments who were in the UC before construction will not be returning,” Vice President of Finance and Administration Kathryn Funk-Baxter said. “Everyone should be coming back to where they were originally.” Even with the completion of the new dining hall, the UC will still house the university’s retail dining market. The new dining market, which will now be known as The Cove, will be open again for students at the grand

yourself of the specific requirements,” Culver said. “By contacting these professors, you will be able to get a clear sense of what will be expected of you as a student.” For more information regarding Islanders in Spain, or any other study abroad program that will be offered by the university contact the office of International Education Study Abroad Programs Resource Center by phone at study.abroad@tamucc.edu continued from page 1

opening. Along with Chick-fil-A, the UC is adding two new dining concepts to the available options. Panda Express and Pizza Hut will be added to give students a more diverse dining option. “The final stages of the construction include finishing renovations in the rotunda and of course the outside of the University Center,” Perez said. “The dining area, the campus bookstore and the on-campus Wells Fargo will be some of the last things to be completed and open in the University Center.” 2014 marks the 15th year anniversary of the UC’s establishment. Back in 1999, students voted to have a union student complex fee to construct the building. “Ironically enough what we had on campus before was the building where CASA is now and that was the

original place where students hung out and so forth.” Perez said. “It was definitely time then for something new.” The Island University had made the transition from a two-year school to a four-year university around the construction of the University Center. With the change in what type of school A&M-Corpus Christi was the UC was constructed to comfortably accommodate around 7,000 students. “Now with the university having record breaking enrollment every year we needed more space for student organizations, for students just to hang out and meet,” Perez said. “We went to the students again to increase the fee.” Back in 1999 when the students first started the fee, it started out at as a $35 flat fee. The fee was later increased to $45 where it stayed for

several years. When the proposal of increasing the fee once again to help fund the renovating of the UC was brought forth to the current students it was turned down on the first try before going back on a second proposal and accepting that the fee be increased to $100 which is the cap that the university is allowed to charge. A&M- Corpus Christi began the construction on the UC back in September of 2013. The proposed budget for the expansion and renovation tallied in at a staggering $27.5 million. “We have stuck to the budget, but just like any renovations or construction you run into unforeseen issues,” Perez said. “However, were we have had to spend more money, we have been able to take away from another area thankfully. This has allowed us to stay on budget.”

news 4

11.13.2014

Ready, set, game ISLAND WAVES

Island University library to host International Games Day by JAMIE FINK news reporter

n Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., the library will host International Games Day. International Games Day is an international event held every year in libraries all across the world. November is a time of preparation and realization for many that the semester is almost over. Preparation for finals is basically what the entire month of November is all about, besides eating some delicious turkey. The Jeff & Mary Bell Library however, is offering students an opportunity for students to relax from all that preparation and studying by offering International Games Day. “International Games Day is an international event that was organized by the American Library Association along with some partners to help shed some light on libraries across the world, and break the stereotype of libraries being a stagnate research with only books,” said Library Associate Patricia Hernandez. “We [the

library] are hosting this event on campus for the first time to show students that our library is not that stagnate, typical library. It is a place students can come and hang out and have fun.” This event will be an opportunity for university students to come and play their favorite games, learn new games and meet other students that have an interest in games. “There is going to be four Xbox 360’s and two Nintendo Wii stations for students to participate and play in multiplayer games,” said Library Associate II Joe Hernandez. “We are also encouraging students and the community to bring any and all board games that they want to bring to play, because with IGD we don’t want to strictly limit people to only video games because that’s not what the day is about.” The event is not just limited to students. “The event is open to the entire Corpus Christi community, but we are specifically encouraging Islander

students to attend the free event,” Hernandez said. “For the first five participants to the event, they will receive a gamer’s ‘swag bag’ which will be a complimentary gift bag from the library for being a part of the event.” In addition to board games, the library staff will also supply a life size chess board for students to try out. “We will be providing a 10-foot by 10-foot chess board with large pieces, along with smaller chess boards on the sides for students on the second floor of the library,” Hernandez said. The library staff and workers see this event as an opportunity for students to become more involved with the library. The library has offered past opportunities including the Open House and Banned Books Week as opportunities for students to see the library as more of a hangout and study location, than the typical research center. Along with video games, A&MCorpus Christi’s Innovation in Computing Research Labs, or iCore for short, will also be set up in the library

on International Games Day. Students and the community will get the chance to see displays from the iCore labs and talk to computer science professors about a degree in Computer Science. They will also be able to meet with computer science graduate students and learn about the projects that they have been painstakingly working on. Students that enjoy anything from classic board games to card games and even the more advanced video games are invited to come out and enjoy that chance to kick back and beat their friends and other Islanders in some friendly gaming competitions. “The video games for the students will be provided by Breakers, but students are encouraged to bring their own games, at their own risk,” Hernandez said. For more information regarding International Games Day contact the Mary & Jeff Bell Library.

Got Opinions? Write to Us:

editor@tamucc.edu

Like us on Facebook:

Island Waves Student Newspaper

features

11.13.2014

Dia De Los Muertos

ISLAND WAVES

A special day honoring the dead by DANIELA CAMPOS contributing writer

his Saturday, Nov. 1, downtown Corpus Christi held its annual Day of The Dead festival a huge block party that swarmed Starr St. and Mesquite St. and everything in between. Dia De Los Muertos is a day celebrating the life of loved ones and those who have passed away. Roughly 3,500 people attend every year and the number continues to steadily grow as Muertos veterans come back wanting more and new attendees discover a huge party conveniently located right in their neighborhood. The popular festival began in 2008 and went from a small block party with roughly 600 guests, 35 art vendors, and one disk jockey to one of Corpus Christi’s big local attractions. Seven years later, with more than 90 vendors, three bands, costume contests, art showings and so much

more, Dia De Los Muertos is really a day to remember. “I’m hoping that more people will participate more in dressing up and be more into it so they can really celebrate and enjoy their time,” Yolanda Ramirez, a three-year festival goer said. Friends and festival partiers Nicolas Rodriguez (two years) and Natalie Trevino (Dia De Los Muertos newcomer) talked about their favorite things they saw at the festival. “All the face paints, I think they’re really awesome,” Rodriguez said as he waited in line to get his face painted by a volunteer. Kids and adults alike had the same idea. Trevino agreed with Rodriguez but she had a different one in mind. “The culture. The culture is beautiful. I love it,” she said. But it’s not all about celebrating the dead. It’s also a great way for artists to show their work. It’s a great way for

artists to show their work. Eleanor Adame is an Architecture and drafting student at Del Mar College and this was her first time showcasing her art in what is called a charrette, a student design where she only had three days to come up with a piece of art. “Just be as creative as you can, as far as you can take it,” Adame said to artists who would possibly be interested in entering the charrette next year. Adame promised that she would do it again next year. But art wasn’t the only thing a visitor could see. Art and jewelry venders lined the sidewalks showcasing their work that could be purchased as well as many food choices ranging from barbecue to Vietnamese noodles for visitors to choose from. Entertainment was not an issue as there were three bands that could

keep all the wide varieties of party goers dancing. In the kids’ corner there was a performance from school children who reenacted a Dia De Los Muertos play, as well as many games to play, and prizes to win. Another musical act was from a disc jockey who played solely popular Tejano music and accompanying him were talented dancers who gave a performance of a lifetime. Finally there was a local band that rocked and got everyone to bust a move. There was even the popular haunted house, Fright Night, to give everyone a good scare. For $20 a brave visitor could walk through a haunted hotel. There is absolutely so much to do and so much to see at the festival. So mark your calendars for next year folks, Dia De Los Muertos is simply a day to die for in Corpus Christi.

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10/1/14 8:00 AM

features 6

11.13.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Culture Fest Offers Unity in Diversity by JESSE DELION graduate adviser

hen all of the campus groups, clubs and organizations come together in the Island Hall Gym for this year’s Culture Fest on Saturday, Nov. 15, diversity will be the trait that ultimately unites them all. Dancing, music-making, arts and crafts and delicious food are all a part of this very popular annual event which is coordinated and presented by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s Islander Cultural Alliance. ICA’s president Dina Ruiz has been hard at work since early September making phone calls to several key group members, scheduling the appearances of several performers and essentially overseeing every imaginable detail that will give visitors an unforgettable treat for the

senses during this compendium of culture. “Culture Fest is the largest event of the year for ICA,” says Ruiz. “We try to include as many cultures as possible during this gathering that is truly one of a kind,” she adds. The alluring rhythms of the Pacific Islanders to the graceful moves of Corpus Christi Concert Ballet to the dazzling colors that adorn Alcorta’s Compania de Danza Folklorica are just a few of the many highlights slated for the Culture Fest stage. If guests are inspired to get even closer to these performers to learn more about their respective cultures Culture Fest’s inviting atmosphere makes that possible in many appealing ways. ”We will have a large buffet of multicultural food,” Ruiz said. “This is just another way that guests can

get a real taste of all of the cultures that will be represented.” And if the uplifting music, tantalizing food and inviting atmosphere are not enough to awaken the senses to the beauty of other cultures, guests can literally take a memento of the spirit of Culture Fest home with them and wear it with pride. “We will have a limited number of free Culture Fest T-shirts,” Ruiz said. “Although we want everyone to have one we will distribute these t-shirts on a first-come first-served basis.” she said. Ruiz has been involved with Culture Fest for the past three years but this year’s gathering holds a very special significance for her. “This is the first year that I have taken the lead and planned all of

the details myself,” Ruiz said. “As president of the Islander Cultural Alliance, bringing it all together is just part of the job.” Judging from the impressive list of participants, program of scheduled performances and the buffet filled with tantalizingly tempting choices, mapping it all out was no easy task. In addition to six consecutive dance performances Culture Fest will present more than 50 tables that will feature each of the participating groups. These tables will be filled with eye-catching art, unique musthave items and other noteworthy artifacts that will allow guests to peer into each of the cultures represented. Culture Fest will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Island Hall Gym. Admission is free and the entire community is welcome.

WHAT:

Culture Fest

WHEN:

Saturday, Nov. 15, 2014, 11am to 2pm

WHERE:

Island Hall Gym

Admission is free TOP PHOTO: The Pacific Islanders perform at the 2013 Culture Fest. BOTTOM PHOTO: Folklorico dancers take the stage during the 2013 Culture Fest.

Photos courtesy of TAMUCC

entertainment

11.13.2014

“The beautiful patio of the Art Center has a very serene atmosphere.”

t’s no secret that downtown Corpus Christi has long been a haven for art lovers. With its wide variety of venues from bars to museums there is something for just about everybody in the sprawling district. The one place that can easily elude passerby with its ornate structure and seaside location is The Art Center of Corpus Christi. The elaborate building housing the art center is as beautiful as the work inhabiting it. With its square-shaped design and central courtyard, it’s a great date spot that also works for having a peaceful moment of solitude. Since its inception in 1972 the art center has hosted work from some of the best artists in the Coastal Bend area. When walking through its hallways patrons will notice a variety of pieces that range from paintings to statues. These include traveling exhibits which are swapped out monthly and member exhibits which are being displayed on behalf of art museum members for patrons to view or purchase. The Art Center wasn’t founded in its current location though. The original building was in Bluff Park in downtown Corpus Christi. The various artists who founded the art center built it with the intention of having a space that they could both create and display their work. After many months of fundraising they succeeded in their goal. The current building, built in 1940, was once a space used by the USO. As time went on the city of Corpus Christi utilized it as a tax office and later on an annex for city hall. Eventually the property was abandoned.

“The artists saw the landmark potential of this building,” museum director Dianna Bluntzer said. “In the year 1990 they finally gained the permission and the funds that they needed to move forward with the project.” Bluntzer said the move was spurred by an increase in business at the original location that was significantly smaller. In addition the current location was more centrally located and more easily visible to those who were unaware of its existence. Ever since, it has been a prime location for both locals and tourists who traverse the city’s downtown area. “The art center is devoted to every medium and every style,” Bluntzer said. “You will find everything from very traditional work to completely contemporary work.” The art on display featured various subject matters such as animals and waterfronts in addition to more interpretive pieces. When it comes to college students, Bluntzer encourages them to come spend as much time as they like in the space. “There is no cost of admission, its a relaxing atmosphere and its right next to the bayfront,” Bluntzer said. “Ride your bike over, park it in the courtyard and take a stroll through our galleries. It’s a very relaxed environment, so you never need to dress up or feel like you need a special reason to come.” The Art Center has a membership program for artists that costs $20 a year. For $8 every 2 months, artists can display their work in the galleries for potential buyers. The Art Center of Corpus Christi is open six days a week Tuesday through Friday its open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays from 1p.m.-4 p.m. The space is closed on Mondays.

“The Art Center hosts a wide variety of artistic styles.”

“Just a small portion of the beautiful work on exhibit at the Art Center.”

Photos by TREY SEAL

by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

Photo courtsey of WEDDINGMAPPER.COM

ISLAND WAVES

entertainment 8

11.13.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Jake Ward of Jake Ward and the Coast Riders plays to an enthusiastic crowd during the Battle if the Bands on Nov. 6. BATTLE OF THE BANDS One of the greatest aspects of the event is its ability to bring the school community together to enjoy the widespread love of music. In addition, the event helps these local bands to expand their fanbase to their fellow classmates. That type of exposure is invaluable in today’s age of digital music. With music seemingly all around due to the Internet and social media, many often forget about the local musicians who strive for success. Video production professor Bobby Lewis, an avid musician himself, said he finds the event to be great for the musical participants as well. “It gives bands a unique opportunity to play a show with other bands that they normally wouldn’t play with,” Lewis said. “It’s not only great for their exposure but their ability to network as well.” Speaking from experience, Lewis said that even though the events are called battles the musicians usually

photos by TREY SEAL

continued from page 1 couldn’t be more supportive of one another. “My favorite aspect of it all is the wide range on hand, its heavy metal versus country versus Rock and Roll. Its not all confined to just one genre,” said lead event coordinator Mara Stonebrook. Stonebrook’s efforts in addition to her co-worker Kreece Wiginton were a major part in turning the battle into the major event that it is. “I think she hit the nail right one the head, being able to listen to all these unique styles in one place; it makes for a really unique event,” Wiginton said. It’s great to see such support for these aspiring musicians from the Island University student body. In the end, it wasn’t about those who won and loss. It was about the shared love of music that these groups and their audience were connected by. The Battle of the Bands is a yearly event that often occurs in the fall.

Last years second place winner “The Fall” came back better than ever.

Follow the Campus Activities Board Facebook page in order to keep up-

dated about any further events.

entertainment

11.13.2014

ISLAND WAVES

#StopTheYak

New social media impacts students and staff

by NATALLY ECHEVERRIA contributing writter

eed to know what’s going around campus? Gossip? Opinions? Chances are students are going to be checking Yik Yak. However, there might be some negative effects from using Yik Yak happening at the Island University. The new social media app Yik Yak is an anonymous posting app that is able to connect users together based on their location and of the location of users in the surrounding area. Yik Yak is primarily used by college students to comment on all things going on their college campuses. The purpose of Yik Yak is that people are posting good content said co-creator of Yik Yak, Brooks Buffington in a Skype interview for the University of Texas at Austin. Yik Yak is a growing trend all around the Island University and a recent survey conducted to both students and faculty members of the Island University showed that approximately most members of this campus are aware of the social app Yik Yak and at least 80 percent have made or seen a Yik Yak post. Freshman Marissa Sauseda said she was stunned by the results. “Our professors can see all of that,” Sauseda said. “That’s so crazy, so many people post about their professors, wow.” Although it is a private post everyone within the user’s radius has access to what the users are posting. When students open the app there is one specific rule that must be important as it is repeated: You do not bully or specifically target

other yakkers. Out of the approximated 80 percent of users, 66 percent of them have felt offended or insulted by a post made on Yik Yak. “There is a very dark side to this app,” an anonymous professor said. “If one ever wanted the power to read minds all they would need to do is read yik yak posts and then they’d realize how awful that power would be. The potential for sexual harassment and bullying via yik yak is very high.” Faculty members are also beginning to become concerned with the amount of students using Yik Yak in the classrooms. A surveyed anonymous student admitted to constantly being on Yik Yak during her classes. “It’s so much fun, a lot of the posts are hilarious,” she said. However 96 percent of the faculty

FURY

and 73 percent of students surveyed believe that Yik Yak is very distracting in the classroom and is not resourceful in any way. Political science professor Dr. Juan Huerta brought to the attention of his students that the use of electronic devices in a distracting manner breaks the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Student Code of Conduct. “They could be subject to disciplinary action,” Huerta said. Survey takers were also asked how likely they were to recommend the social media app Yik Yak to their friend, family member or colleague. 55 percent of students would

recommend Yik Yak, however, on the contrary 98 percent of faculty members were not at all likely to recommend this app. “It is extremely degrading and there are so many bullying comments,” another surveyed professor said. “There are sexual comments about women, sexual and bullying comments about students.”

MOVIE REVIEW

by JON BOGGS contributing writter

ury” is an excellent World War II movie that is dripping with atmosphere, features immaculate acting and doesn’t pull any punches. “Fury” is an American war film telling the story of the Five Man veteran crew of a U.S. Tank aptly named, Fury. The crew lead by Don “Wardaddy” Collier faces the end of the war. Germany has almost surrendered and the allies are pushing deeper and deeper into Nazi Germany. Behind enemy lines the crew of the Fury faces a desperate and merciless Nazi resistance. To say Brad Pitt is a good actor is a gross underestimation of his acting ability, but when “Fury” hit the screen it wasn’t just him that demanded

10/10 Amazing

audience attention. Shia LaBeouf had a knockout performance that rivals the depth he performed with in “Lawless”. LaBeouf, almost more so then Brad Pitt, gives a powerful performance in this World War II drama. From the moment we see Brad Pitt leaping off an American tank to kill a Nazi soldier until the credits start rolling his acting is immaculate. Since “Troy” released in 2004 Brad Pitt has been the victim of being “too beautiful.” Audiences always appreciated his performances, but his physical appearance is easy to distract from the sheer power of his acting. Keeping this in mind, Pitt goes out of his way to look the part using makeup to give his character a grizzled war veteran look. There

is nothing to distract from the raw power and near gravitational pull of Brad Pitt’s acting. LaBeouf plays a religious soldier and in many ways is the moral compass of our main character, Normal Ellison (played by Logan Lerman). Lerman plays a fresh face to the war untested and unready he faces many moral dilemmas. He’s taken in to become the gunner for Fury and he faces desperate Nazi counter attacks. His story of navigating Nazi Germany and the things he is forced to witness pulls no punches. The movie is filled with gruesome imagery that more than effectively gets across the horrors of what the characters are dealing with. The best example of this occurs in the beginning where young Norman

Ellison is cleaning his station in the tanks. He and the audience are alarmed by the remains of the face belonging to the former gunner Ellison was replacing. The scene ends with Ellison being as disturbed as the audience is. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that they are hearing words actually used in war and there is no doubt that “Fury” wants to be as memorable as it can be. It succeeds. Between Brad Pitt’s Oscar worthy performance and Shia LaBeouf showing he is a good actor, “Fury” is a movie worth seeing twice. Add in atmosphere, a gripping story and compelling character and “Fury” may well be one of the best movies released this year. photo courtesy of JIMSFEAR.BLOGSPOT.COM

sports 10

11.13.2014

ISLAND WAVES

ISLANDER BASKETBALL

Leading Islander athletics

John Jordan, senior gaurd, lays it up during last year’s contest against Northern Colorado. by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

he Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi men’s basketball team is determined to build on last year’s success. The team finished with 18 wins last season, a year after coming out victorious in six contests. The turnaround was one of the largest in the nation from two seasons ago to last year. “To make that turnaround was huge for our team,” senior guard John Jordan said. The team was able to create for themselves an identity on defense which allowed them to see a good deal of success. “We came into our own defensively. We got a lot of stops when we needed them. We had a mantra during the season, which was ‘if we don’t score, they don’t score’,” senior guard Hameed Ali said. With the added on-the-court experience as well as the lessons learned from winning so many games last year comes the need to improve on certain on-court aspects to keep last year’s momentum going. “We had a lot of scoring droughts. Right now we are trying to shorten them,” Ali said. “We want to get the ball to the third, fourth and fifth [scoring option], and buy into our offense more.” Jordan and Ali are the only two seniors on this year’s team, which

means they must display excellent leadership if the team is to be successful. “I feel like I lead by communicating, I lead by example. I go out there and show [the younger players] what to do,” Ali said. Jordan also wants to use his position on the team to help the other members of the team. “Because of my experience on the court I can use that to help the freshmen and even the sophomores to succeed by showing them the right spot and how things work,” Jordan said. One result of the recent success is that the coaching staff has been able to attract quality athletes from all over the world. “We have a lot better players and a lot more talent this year. I think we have improved the most on rebounding the ball,” Jordan said. “We have a lot of guys that can run and jump, so rebounding won’t be an issue.” Those improvements have not gone unnoticed by other members of the team. “We look a lot better compared to this time last year,” Ail said. “We haven’t yet reached the plateau defensively.” The squad’s work ethic has been evident, even in practice. “Practice has been very impressive. We haven’t had any trouble,” Jordan said. “Guys are playing hard and intense and the freshmen are getting caught up to speed.” Jordan said.

photo courtesy of GOISLANDERS

The team certainly has reason to be optimistic going into the season. The competitive drive within the athletes has left them wanting more this season. “We can go far this season,” Ali said. “With this team being more talented the sky’s the limit.” The possibilities have served to get the men excited for what might come to be. “I’m most excited just to see how much the team has progressed so far and to see how much more we will progress during the season and in conference.” Jordan said. Soon the home fans will see the effects of the team’s work ethic and determination for themselves.

sports

11.13.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Ali does it all: A profile of an Islander basketball player

photos courtesy of MATT BRADY

Ali engaged in the game.

by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

Ali gets ready to shoot.

he Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Islanders men’s basketball team has just started their 20142015 campaign. This year’s team is young with only two seniors on the roster. Hameed Ali the 6’2 starting guard knows that this means he and fellow senior guard John Jordan will play a crucial role in the team’s success. “I’m a playmaker,” Ali said. “I do whatever I can to make the plays I score and I’m a defensive stopper that guards the best player on the other team. ‘Whatever is necessary’ is the mantra I use.” Ali’s path to playing basketball for the Islanders echoes the stories of many other college players. The Hayward, California native was introduced to basketball at a young age through a very popular amateur sports program. “When I was 6, my brother and I played on an Amateur Athletic Union {AAU} team,” Ali said. Ali’s recruiting experience involved him considering taking a big risk. “This [school] was really my only offer,” Ali said. “I came here with the coaching staff that was here at the time, and I took a chance.” While the focus of a team sport involves many moving parts it is important for each member of the team to grow and develop as they gain more experience. “I feel like I am stronger than last year,” Ali said. “I also feel like I have been more consistent with my jump shot.” Along with building his on the

court skills, Ali was able to get some nice workouts in preparation for the season. “Over the summer the first major thing that helped me get ready for this year was that I was healthy,” Ail said. “Being healthy allowed me to spend time in the gym practicing and getting reps in. I went to the open gym [practices] a lot.” The program has gone through a major makeover in the last few years both with the coaching staff and with how the team is looked at locally as well as nationally. Ali as well as senior John Jordan have been a key part of the maturing and growth of the team. However it wasn’t always easy on them as competitive people. “When I got here I felt like losing was the biggest challenge I had to face,” Ali said. “Coming into this university, I hadn’t been part of a team that had finished under .500 I had to take losing to learn how to

win.” Ali is ready to accept his role as an experienced leader of the team. “The leadership of the team lands on the shoulders of John [Jordan] and I,” Ali said. “My play will help younger guys get comfortable and will help them to be more aggressive.” Words of encouragement from a loved one helped Ali to become a better player on the court. “My cousin told me to be relentless,” Ali said. “After I made a couple plays I felt like me job was done. Now I can cause more havoc on the court.” Ali has a pre-game ritual he loves to follow on game days. “I have a music playlist and all the way to the gym I listen to the same songs and it gets me into the game mode also, I eat Skittles,” Ali said. Fans can watch Ali and the rest of the team in action on Nov. 28 at home against Mississippi Valley at 3 p.m. at the American Bank Center.

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11.13.2014

ISLAND WAVES

Friday, November 21, 2014 Toys for Tots Toy Drive

Holiday Bash

5:00–6:30 pm CI Courtyard

Donate an unwrapped toy to the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots toy drive and brighten up a child’s day! Sponsored by the Division of Student Engagement & Success in conjunction with the United States Marine Corps.

5:00–6:30 pm CI Courtyard

Fun for the whole family! Come enjoy games, crafts, inflatables, and dancing. Light refreshments will be served. Sponsored by the Division of Student Engagement & Success.

Lighting Ceremony

Ho! Ho! Ho!

6:30 pm Lee Plaza

5:15–6:15 pm CI Courtyard

Get your list ready! Santa is coming to campus! Come tell Santa everything you want! Bring an unwrapped toy and get your photo taken with Santa. Sponsored by the Staff Council.

The switch will be thrown to illuminate the campus along Ocean Boulevard in Islander blue, green and white lights. The evening, which will include music, games and other activities, is free and open to the public.

The Department of Music’s 14th Annual Holiday Gala Concert 7:00 pm Performing Arts Center Adults: $10 | Students: $5 | Children 10 & under: Free

The Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi School of Arts, Media & Communication presents the 14th Annual Holiday Gala Concert in the Performing Arts Center at 7:00 pm on Friday, November 21, 2014. The concert will feature students and faculty in a wide variety of holiday favorites for the whole family, from familiar Christmas carols to new arrangements. For more information, contact Courtney Noe at (361) 825-5523 or go to pac.tamucc.edu/events.html.

6300 Ocean Drive • For more information or special accomodations, call (361) 825-2231.

Island Waves

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