Volume 27 Issue 03

TEXAS TEXASA&M A&MUNIVERSITY–CORPUS UNIVERSITY–CORPUS CHRISTI CHRISTI

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EXPLORE EUROPE

READ ARTICLE BELOW

‘Europe Through My Lens’ photo courtesy of MOHAN RAO

Professor expands scholarship funds through library exhibition

by SAMANTHA MAHLER staff writer

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he Mary and Jeff Bell Library recently sold canvas prints in an exhibit entitled “Europe Through My Lens” by Dr. Mohan Rao. Proceeds from each print sold, went on to benefit the Desi Scholarship Fund.

“This was a great opportunity.

I never thought that I would have a photography exhibition here,” said Rao, who began the Desi Scholarship Fund in December of 2014. “It was great—terrific, really— because I’ve had this hobby for a long time and for it to go for this nice cause was even better.”

Rao, who is a business professor at Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi, got the idea after an alumnae photography exhibition in the Mary and Jeff Bell Library and approached Jeff Janko for help. “[Rao] actually came up to me one night in the parking lot after an exhibition and he said ‘How could I have a show in the

library?’” Janko said, a library information specialist at the Mary and Jeff Bell Library. “I went over and he had about six hanging in his office and I thought, ‘these are really good.’ We then picked out about 30 for the exhibit, only about 20 of which were actually displayed.”

The “Europe Through My Lens” exhibit raised a total of $9,000. This will provide nine $1,000 scholarships to students from the Coastal Bend area. Four of the scholarships will go to students studying at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Although not many prints were sold, Rao considers this a major stepping-stone for the Desi Foundation Scholarship.

Rao has high hopes that the Desi Foundation Scholarship will continue to grow and reach more students in financial need.

“I just started this so we don’t have any big bureaucracies because whatever donors donate, all of that money goes to the schol-

photo courtesy of MOHAN RAO

Jeff Janko proudly calls this image, titled “Cathedral” as his favorite photograph by Dr. Rao.

arships. There are no administrative costs or anything like that,” Rao said. “There are some nonprofit organizations that support scholarships to manage in terms of communicating with donors and different universities to set up scholarships. It’s time consuming.”

Now that the Desi Foundation Scholarship is beginning to take

INDEX OPINION 2 | NEWS 3,4,5 | CAMPUS 6,7,10 | ENTERTAINMENT 8,9 | SPORTS 11,12

off, Rao is planning to begin to start advertising in order to acquire more scholarship donors.

“I’m hesitant to advertise because somebody may want to call and find out more about the scholarship. I’m busy with my work here,” Rao said. “So I’m wondering how to handle that. My daughter who see EUROPE on page 4

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opinion

ISLAND WAVES

02.04.2016

Tips to Super Bowl party to remember will send them into a food coma if they indulge too much. Nothing will make a person leave a party faster than ith all the joking aside about bad snacks. Make sure the majority of the reason the Patriots didn’t your budget goes into getting adequate make the Super Bowl due to the balls food. weren’t flat enough, it is finally here, the biggest game of the year.

3. Alcohol The Panthers and Broncos are set I know what you’re thinking, “I’m to face off for the biggest prize in the broke, in college and beer is the sporting world, the coveted Super cheapest thing I can get for a bunch Bowl 50 Lombardi trophy. of people.” NO! Just stop what you The game is just a few days away and are doing right now. If you are going you have procrastinated up until now to provide your guests with some of about getting your party planning self the best snacks for a party they have together to throw the best Super Bowl ever had, then you better not just buy party ever. However, there’s no need to one kind of beer. People like to drink fret. Here are some tips and tricks to different things because they have having the most awesome game day different tastes. Don’t just stick with party ever. light beer, mix it up. Buy some ales, ambers, and craft beers for everyone 1. Television Perfection to enjoy. If you want to get real fancy, The most important piece to your entire go out and buy some quality whisky party going well is having the best TV and rum so your guests can enjoy a available. The larger the number of few mixed drinks as well. A cheaper people at your party, the bigger the alternative would be to tell your guests TV you need to have. Obviously this to bring their own favorite. sounds like a no brainer, but we’ve all seen the Velveeta commercial of all the 4. Clean House fans cramped into a tiny room watching If you are going to be the host person a 20-inch television screen and how it for this rad Super Bowl party with doesn’t work. Don’t be the person who awesome food and drinks, the single hosts the party if your television isn’t most important thing after this is to worthy of the party. If you do have a make sure you have a clean house. small TV and you have the best place Now, I’m not just talking about to view the party, one recommendation cleaning the living room and kitchen is adding a second TV somewhere else because that’s where you know people in the house. Just make sure that both are going to be. Oh no, I’m talking TV are broadcasting at the same speed. about a deep cleaning of the most Nothing is worse than a lag. Cheers important room in your house, the coming from one room before a big bathroom. If you are like me, there is play happens in another is not good. nothing worse than having to go to the restroom in someone else’s house, let 2. Snack Infantry alone someone else’s house with a dirty It’s not a party without food. Snacks bathroom. Based on the number of are a must. How can you even begin to people, food and drinks at your party host a party without having something a regular sweep of the bathroom is a for your guests to eat? When you have must.

15-20 people coming over screaming at a TV for two to three hours, people 5. Create Games need food. They need carbs, fatty, Be creative and create some interesting sweet, delicious, hands-on food that games that go along with the game.

This will keep your guests interested and wanting to stay. Lets be honest, most people are only there to watch the halftime show and commercials. Once those are over people begin to slip out.

So by creating a game, you are insuring that people will stay longer. Whether it be a classic game of Bingo focused around finding images throughout the game, or taking a shot every time the announcer screams about the play that’s happening. Creating something for people to do other than eat and drink will make the party flow.

woes? I picked up odd jobs.

I am reviewing those crazy wrap things, writing dental blog articles, and working promotion gigs. I would not recommend picking up three odd jobs at once unless you’re facing a similar financial crisis as mine, but as it turns out, I am not the only college student that has picked up an odd job to help make ends meet.

According to USA Today, one source of income may not be enough for a college student to make ends meet.

Furthermore, they recommended 10 odd jobs that range from being a

research subject to street performing.

According to the Huffington Post, I am among several young adults that are going through extremes to pay off student debt. Some students even reported giving up social life activities, such as dating, attending weddings and parties for several consecutive months.

If you find yourself feeling embarrassed for having to give up your phone service, work odd jobs, move in with your parents, or whatever you have to do in order to cut spending and reduce debt, don’t be. You are not alone.

by JAMIE FINK editor-in-chief

a student publication of

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

island waves staff JAMIE FINK

editor-in-chief

ALEICHIA WILLIAMS web editor

KELSEY FLORES copy editor

GERI LEMMONS

features reporter

KACI ALVAREZ

features reporter

LEANNE HAAS news reporter

ABBEY WEAVER sports reporter

JONATHAN FORNERY news reporter

SAMANTHA MAHLER

entertainment reporter

ELI T. BERKE

photographer

IZZY SNEED

photographer/cartoonist

MIKAYLA GONZALEZ layout assistant

KARA HERRERA layout assistant

WENDY MOORE faculty adviser

contact us 6300 Ocean Drive Unit 5783 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 825-5862 write us a letter 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.

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.

W

6. No Debbie Downers As soon as you read this bullet point, you knew exactly whom I was talking about. The name of your Debbie Downer instantly pops into your mind and cold chills run down your back.

You have to find someway to not invite this person to your party. Every party has one and it is almost inevitable. Try not to invite the guest who you know will annoy the others. There are plenty of people at the party; no need to over do it and invite someone you know will take away from the great atmosphere you are trying to create.

7. The Worst will happen Finally, the last thing you need to realize and prepare for in order to have a great Super Bowl party is to realize that something will go wrong. You can’t stop it from happening. You have to be prepared for the worst and the things that could happen. Check and double-check everything you have set up. Backups for everything will help you make it through the evening alive and sane.

If you keep these important steps in mind, your Super Bowl party will be the most epic event that your friends have been to in the last year. Who knows, maybe they’ll already start planning to return to your place next year, or even try and one up you by throwing their own Super Bowl bash.

Working odd jobs, not that odd

by CYMA MAYES contributing writer

I

don’t know how I ended up with all of my credit cards maxed out or how my bank account has a negative balance. I can’t pay my phone bill, I was not doing well in my courses, and I had thousands of dollars in tuition due… all in a matter of one summer.

In the past, I have only heard of tremendous financial struggles that college students go through, and now, I am facing my own financial hell.

How am I dealing with my financial

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news

02.04.2016

President’s Ball not just for donors

ISLAND WAVES

by ALEICHIA WILLIAMS web editor

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n Saturday, Jan. 30, President Killebrew will host his annual Mardi Gras Ball.

The event is hosted to celebrate those participating in funding different programs at the university.

There is wine, a jazz band, mardi gras beads and all staff and faculty are invited to attend. The President’s Ball is the black tie event of the year for Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

But what is the President’s Mardi Gras Ball? Is it just an opportunity for staff to wear fancy clothes and sip fancy wine?

Heidi Felpel, the stewardship coordinator of events, said the main purpose of the event is to show ap-

READING CORNER

preciation to those who support the university in various ways.

“We have support from so many programs and people from the community,” Felpel said. “The event is to give time and be able to turn around and say, thank you.”

Those who have supported the University are sent a formal invitation and staff and faculty are encouraged to join as well.

Though the event is open for anyone to buy a ticket, the main purpose of the event is to really show gratitude to the donors. However, it is not unusual to find students in attendance. Take Allie Sherwood, for example. Sherwood is a senior psychology major and she is also a President’s Ambassador.

“President’s Ambassadors, they go to University events that Dr. Kil-

lebrew and Mrs. Killebrew go to,” Sherwood said. “When we go we are usually speaking to donors. We work at the VIP events and we go where the president goes. We are the face of students. So if donors want to speak to students that’s what we do.”

Sherwood attended the ball last year as an ambassador and said she was working, but also having a lot of fun. Last year the ambassadors passed out beads and masks.

Sherwood also said she had fun.

Sherwood did not have a second thought or moments hesitation about her favorite part of the ball.

“The food,” Sherwood said. “The food is always good. They have this huge dessert table full of mardi gras themed desserts, themed colorful colorful cakes. There’s live music

and dancing. It’s just a lot of fun.

There’s always a fun photo booth.”

“We have seven positions ope right now,” Sherwood said. “You can go to the President’s office and ask.”

Sherwood also said she found the job simply by looking online.

“There are applications. I heard about it because I just saw it online,” Sherwood said. “You sign up they ask for you resume. You have an interview. Also, they are looking for students who aren’t going to graduate soon. They want students who will be here at least for another year.”

If anyone is interested and is looking to apply to become a President’s Ambassador, they may visit their web page on the tamucc.edu website.

Keys to remembering what you read

Spring semester is here, even though the weather is actually winterized more than we would like it to be. The time of year brings me to contemplating reading; I mean more than I usually do.

What is reading? Ever thought about that?

When talking about reading, are we talking about our eyes moving across a line of words and down a page? Where does reading happen? The eyes? The brain?

If you said the brain, I would scream a resounding YES! The brain is constantly making meaning from what the eyes (or fingers, for Braille users) gather and label as information in a written text. The processes in the brain are actively seeking connections with things that we can relate to our lives, our world, or other things we were exposed to from past readings, lectures, or conversations.

This process is an active meaning-making process and it is magical! Essentially it is automatic. But the ability to make that activate the meaning-making process mandates a reader who has their attention on the task.

Many people I talk with both young and old talk about reading a page and not knowing what they read at the end. It is common especially if the brain is not engaged in the content of the text. When asked, these same people will admit to thinking about many other things besides the content of the text while they are reading.

Because the brain is working on other things besides making the text mean something, the reader will finish with the page and the brain will register, HUH? That is frustrating and time consuming because you end up reading the text again for the same reason ( #Timewaster).

We all have so many things going on in our lives that concentration on one thing is difficult, but when reading that concentration is mandatory, after all our brains can only do so many things at once.

So concentration on the reading in front of you is important if you want to stop the rereading necessary to understand the information. If you give your attention to the text while reading, the need for re-reading will diminish.

Reading a text multiple times is not a horrible task, but in college re-reading is usually directed, meaning that the second read addresses another point or view of a concept or idea or confirmation rather than information gathering. The first reading in a chapter of a textbook should be rich in information -- the first time. OK, so what do you do about that time waster of reading a textbook with zero comprehension?

First, thing a reader should do is to preview the text that is assigned. What I mean is to look over the assignment, see what information the assignment is asking you to know at the end of your reading. If you dive into the reading without a purpose or assignment you have not given your brain any directions.

What is the purpose of the reading? Or Why do I have to read this? The information to answer this question is in the assignment.

Sometimes the assignment is read the textbook chapter, which tells you should be creating an outline of sorts, main ideas and details that support. Textbooks are generally structured by the main ideas and details of a topic, which is why outlining the chapter is a good tool for making notes about the topics in textbooks.

Let me explain. You have to read a chapter in Psychology. Knowing this is textbook reading tells the reader that the organization of the text will likely be structured in a particular way.

Your brain appreciates the information because now as you are physically reading the brain can categorize the information into main parts and supporting information (“Thank you,” from your brain).

Once the brain has the main parts (usually the bolded headings), then it will recognize

that the bold headings have details under them.

The text under the bold headings explains the bold headings only. That information is so helpful! Information in textbooks is structured in an outline. I will get into some of the specific differences across content areas later but for most contents the structure is main ideas and details. OK that’s easy!

Second, most of the text under the bold heading is organized with a detail, then an explanation, then an example or two.

Did you know that if you understand the detail, then maybe the example is not something you need to read closely and memorize?

Knowing the structure and organization of the textbook helps your brain fit the parts together.

If you read without some idea of text structure, the brain will not organize and categorize the information.

Remember you are in charge of your brain, so abstractly set an outline in there, so that all the text you read will not hold the same degree of importance. If the information is totally new to you, this active organization is extremely important, because you are learning what a main idea of the specific content is and what a detail that supports it looks like.

The bold headings will help you so much in figuring out how the content works. Who knew those bold headings were so important?

The other great thing about knowing the structure and organization of the textbook is that as you read and underline or take notes in the sidebar, you be more selective about what you highlight or what bullets you write in the sidebar.

The activity of the writing in the sidebar or highlighting/underling while you read also reminds the brain that it is suppose to actively participate in the reading. You activate your brain and direct the work to reading instead of goofing off. Make your brain participate the way you want. You are in charge of activating your own brain.

Dr. Deb Culbertson, PhD, is a professional assistant professor in the College of Education and Human Development, and specializes in effective reading techniques. She will share reading tips in alternating weeks of Island Waves during the Spring 2016 semester.

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02.04.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Services provide free emissions testing

by GERI LEMMONS staff writer

O

n Jan. 25, at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Auto Check did free emissions testing for anyone who wanted to come by.

Cheston Bilbao was one of the people helping out with checking cars and he said they have been doing these free emissions tests for about 15 years or more.

“We noticed that with a lot of industry coming into town there was sort of a problem,” Bilbao said. “The EPA was lowering the amount of ozone that can be permitted into a city.”

Pollution prevention partnership teamed up with Auto Check to help with keeping the air safe and to help keep the levels down so Corpus Christi does not end up like other cities such as Dallas or Houston, just to name a few.

Trent Thigpen, another one of the people helping out with checking cars, said that the goal of the partnership with pollution prevention is to lower the pollution level in the Corpus Christi area.

“EPA is the ozone standards and

ours has dropped twice since we have started,” Thigpen said. “Some cities that go over the city requirement have to have mandatory things like this and big business’ have to have permits to do certain things because of it.”

When people came to the Auto Check area the two men working the tent checked the person’s tailpipe with a probe in order to see if the car, truck or SUV gave off too much of a certain gas. Auto Check would also inspect the customer’s gas cap to ensure that it is working properly by using a tool to see if there were any problems as well as pumping air around the cap to check the seal. According to Cheston Bilbao if someone has a bad cap they can lose up to 30 gallons of gas each year.

Auto Check was able to tell the customer what was wrong as well as offer some solutions that could fix the problem. All in all the entire process was done rather quickly which allowed customers to be on their way in a matter of minutes.

Auto Check also has different events just like this one that are open to the public for anyone with a

photo by GERI LEMMONS

Cheston Bilbao examines the probe once inserted into the tailpipe. Bilbao and others conduct free emissions testing frequently on the Island University.

vehicle to come by and take advantage of.

This year there was a large number of cars that came by to get their vehicles checked. In fact there were so many cars that eventually even a line of vehicles waiting to get checked was formed.

Bilbao there was even more people who showed up for the free emissions test on Saturday. That day they had one of the best turn outs

with more cars showing up each time.

Usually the turn out for this event ranges from around 15 to 16 cars daily. However this year Auto Check saw a much bigger turn out as more and more people came out as the day progressed and they seemed to get busy at one point. Auto Check kept up with the numerous cars that came in and made sure to give each person the time and attention that was needed.

EUROPE continued from page 1

lives in San Antonio offered to help out and answer phone calls from potential donors and students as well.”

This is the second year for the Desi Foundation Scholarship. In the scholarship’s inaugural year only one scholarship was able to be given out.

The “Europe Through My Lens” exhibit was available for viewing from Thursday, Nov. 5, 2015, through Friday, Jan. 29, 2016 in the downstairs atrium of the Mary and Jeff Bell Library.

Images of Rao’s digital photogra-

phy prints from the “Europe Through My Lens” collection can be found online at www.flickr.com/photos/ drrao/sets/72157659875986961.

For more information on the canvas print exhibit, contact Janko at 361-825-2588 or email jeff.janko@ tamucc.edu, or Rao at 361-8252458 or email mohan.rao@tamucc. edu.

Also for information on the Desi Foundation or to become a donor, please visit www.desischolarshipfund.org or email Rao at mohanrao@tamucc.edu.

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02.04.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Scholarship deadline approaching fast

by LEANNE HAAS staff writer

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ith the excitement of homecoming and the stress of a new semester, students may need to be reminded that the fastapproaching deadline to apply for the 2016-17 scholarships is March 1.

“The deadline is convenient,” Ashley Cooper said. “I don’t have to worry about it during spring break, it’ll already be done.”

Most scholarships available to students do not require any outside application, such as a FAFSA application. The only reason one would need to file with FAFSA would be to acquire a need-based scholarship, loan or grant.

Many of the scholarships available to students at Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi come from donors.

These donors range from generous individuals to businesses and organizations. The donors set the rules for the scholarship who gets what. This is why the requirements for each scholarship are varied.

However a higher GPA increases

a student’s chance of receiving a scholarship.

“All of our scholarships are based on GPA,” said Kaci Bolechala the administrative assistant for the scholarship sffice.

While this emphasis on GPA may be a problem for some students, some also see it as an incentive to strive for better grades.

“Scholarships are a good way to work even harder for what you want,” said Kayla Rosas a junior nursing major.

The way the online application works is simple. The website allows incoming freshmen, incoming transfers and undergraduate students a chance to apply for these scholarships. While each application will vary slightly depending upon these factors everything is straightforward.

Students fill in information about themselves and are automatically considered for any scholarship that matches their criteria. This way, students only need to fill out one application.

photos courtesy FLICKR.COM

If a student meets all the criteria for a certain scholarship they are then asked to answer six short essay questions. Depending on what scholarship a student qualifies for the questions may vary.

“That’s [the committee’s] way to learn about you,” Bolechala said.

There is a wide variety of major specific scholarships for all students, including students enrolled in the College of Business, Education, Liberal Arts, Nursing and Health Science and the College of Science and Engineering. There are also additional scholarships available to art, music, and theatre majors. In fact there are more than200 major specific scholarships available for the 2016-18 academic year.

However, there are a few general requirements for students to apply for any scholarship. Incoming freshmen must be either in the top 15 percent of their class, score a 25 or higher on the American College Testing (ACT), or have a score of 1150 or higher on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) without the writing section.

For incoming transfer students and current undergraduates, a

minimum 3.0 GPA is needed to apply and they must plan on being a fulltime student, which is a minimum of 12 hours per semester.

The recipients of the awards are chosen by an anonymous scholarship committee.

There are other ways for students to get the financial aid they need and this is through outside scholarships. There are numerous scholarship website databases that can match students with local, state, national and private scholarships.

Some local scholarships available to students for the upcoming school year include the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, the HACU Scholarship Application, the Mano a Mano Scholarship Program and STARS Student Scholarship Fund.

These outside scholarships are not awarded through the university but are sent to the Financial Aid Office for processing.

Students interested in applying for scholarships at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi for the 2016-17 school year can visit scholarships.tamucc.edu to get started on their applications.

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02.04.2016

ISLAND WAVES

TAMUCC community celebrates MLK

by KACI ALVAREZ features reporter

T

exas A&M University-Corpus Christi hosted the fourth annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration on Jan. 26, in the Performing Arts Center.

The celebration started at 6:30 p.m. and lasted two hours. It included two emotional renditions of historic African American songs, including the Negro National Anthem “Life Every Voice and Sing,” a dance interpretation from the Westhaven Baptist Church, key note speaker Dr. Marc Lamont Hill and a meet and greet with him after the celebration ended.

Throughout the entire event, the audience was thoroughly engaged, especially during Hill’s speech that covered the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and how everyone needs to apply his thinking in today’s world.

“The king didn’t dare us to listen, he challenged us to ask questions,” Hill said.

Hill said the citizens of the United States needs to use Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his practices

in order to fix all the problems that still exist in America, including homelessness, inequality with race and gender and education.

“America is building first class jails and second class schools. We gotta world we gotta fix,” Hill said.

“We can’t fix this world if we don’t ask different questions. There are too many people in this nation that don’t do anything.”

Hill kept the audience’s engagement by using bits and pieces of comedy within his emotional, powerful and moving speech. He used powerful words that seemed to capture the attention of the audience leaving not one runaway thought.

The main message of Hill’s speech was that the world is still growing and those who live in it need to work to continue to build for the future.

Sterling Kemp, a senior communication major, was one of the 200 audience members that felt moved and inspired after listening to Hill speak.

“I came late to the celebration but of what I saw it was really good,” Kemp said. “It was really interesting hearing about and spreading the legacy of MLK.”

Westhaven Baptist Church’s emotion dance interpretation of “Blessed.”

Kemp attended the community celebration because he thought it was important to gain insight on all of the issues that are going on within America as well as learning the thinking of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and how he would approach the problems of today.

Kemp as well as many students from both Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi and Del Mar College

photo by KACI ALVAREZ

attended the celebration alongside members of the community to honor the bravery Martin Luther King, Jr. The eye opening speech Hill presented has left an unanswered question lingering in all of those who attended: How are you going to live up to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and continued to build the nation?

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7 Islander Art Gallery showcases Neocryptofunk campus

02.04.2016

ISLAND WAVES

by JONATHAN FORNEY news reporter

T

he Islander Art Gallery is used to showcasing the work of unique and fascinating artists and their latest feature fits right in. As of Jan. 22 the sculptures of Dewane Hughes are on display at the gallery. They are a part of Hughes’ “Neocryptofunk 2.0, The Exquisite Brutality of a Secret Reality” exhibition.

Hughes is currently associate professor of sculpture at the University of TexasTyler at serves the Texas Sculpture Group on its Board of Directors. Hughes has been showcasing his art since 1991. He operates in the medium of sculpture, particularly wood and metal work. Three galleries across the state of Texas permanently showcase Hughes’ work. Hughes’ most recent exhibit on display at the Islander Art Gallery is comprised mainly of sculptures with a handful of paintings as well.

“Neocryptofunk is the beginning of a new body of work that explores a new take on the FUNK art movement,” Hughes said.

Individuals interpret art differently more so than most other mediums of entertainments, so many could have gotten different themes from the exhibit than that of which the artist intended. For some the works remind them of childhood memories on Saturday mornings.

Islander art gallery director, Laura Petican described Hughes’ work as imposing.

“The viewer will have a physical experience,” she said. “There’s also a playfulness contrasted with the industrial materials that creates an interesting tension.”

Many of the pieces feature bombs, hearts, and ubiquitous cartoon BANG’s as seen in many animated shorts. These elements give the works a more lighthearted feel but the combination of them produces interesting and unique implications from viewers.

“I get a cartoonish, almost PG violence from the sculptures,” said junior media productions major Alejandro Guerrero.

“I actually met Hughes at his opening the other day and he was very outgoing.”

Guerrero was not the only one impressed by Hughes’ demeanor, some of the staff at the gallery, who helped arrange and organize the pieces for show, regarded the sculptor highly as well.

Gustavo Iturralde is a senior kinesiology major at Texas A&M University-Corpus

Check out Homecoming updates on Island Waves Social Media!

Facebook & Twitter @IslandWavesToGo

photos by JONATHAN FORNEY

The playful nature juxtaposes neatly with hard, serious materials in Hughes’ work. The sheer size of some of Hughes’ sculptures is a sight of its own.

“

The viewer will have a physical experience. There’s also a playfulness contrasted with the industrial materials that creates an interesting tension.

”

— Laura Petican, gallery director Christi and also works at the Islander Art Gallery.

“Hughes was kind enough to help move everything and even build some of his sculptures in the gallery, he’s a super laid back guy,” Iturralde said.

Neocryptofunk will be on display until Feb. 27, 2016 at the Islander Art Gallery and can be viewed free of charge during the gallery’s hours of operation.

The gallery itself has been operating

since 2005 and serves as a way to showcase the artwork of both students and professional artists alike. Split into two parts one at the Weber Road location and the other on campus, those interested are never far from interesting works of art.

In addition to showcasing exhibits, the Islander Art Gallery also offers lectures from visiting artists. These lectures are sometimes incorporated into existing classes.

mark your calendars tamu-cc homecoming 2016

rotc centennial 5k women’s basketball game parade & tailgate men’s basketball game homecoming

02.06

on FEBRUARY

SAVE THE DATE

2016

8

entertainment

02.04.2016

Golden man controversy goes viral ISLAND WAVES

by KACI ALVAREZ staff writer

T

he 88th annual Academy Awards are coming up and this year has had the most media coverage and controversy yet, due to #OscarsSoWhite.

The Oscars will air at 7p.m. EST Sunday, Feb. 28, on ABC. Some of the categories for the award show include Best Picture, Leading Actor/Actress, Supporting Actor/Actress, Best Animated movie, Cinematography and Directing.

According to the Oscars website, best pictures nominees are “The Big Short,” “Bridge of Spies,” “Brooklyn,” “Mad Max,” “The Martian,” “The Revenant,” “Room” and “Spotlight.”

However, the excitement of the event is coming to a halt due to the fact that out of all 24 categories none of the nominees are of African American descent, which has thrown the American citizens in to a whirlwind.

The infamous hashtag began on Twitter shortly after the Oscar nominees were announced last week, due to the immediate disgust of the matter.

photo courtesy of FLICKR.COM

According to The Business, an online podcast on KCRW hosted

by Kim Masters, a well known and credible entertainment journalist in Hollywood, #OscarsSoWhite has caused many controversial discussions on whether or not the Academy is racist, due to the majority of the members being older white males, however, many of the members are declining that assumption fully.

It is not just the average citizens who are fed up with the

nominations for the Oscars, many celebrities who are extremely influential in the entertainment business are as well.

Jada Pinkett Smith, Spike Lee and George Clooney have all touched on the #OscarsSoWhite subject during interviews.

“The Oscars… people of color are always welcomed to give out awards… even entertain, but we are rarely recognized for our artistic accomplishments. ‘Should people of color refrain from participating

all together?’” Smith said on Jan. 16.

That was the first suggestion of boycotting the Academy Awards, which has support from many celebrities.

This feud is not just between the citizens in the United States and the Academy or even the celebrities and the Academy. Instead it has also reached celebrity versus celebrity status.

During a video message by Janet Hubert, an actor that was on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” with Smith’s husband, she addresses Smith and her boycott. She said there is so much going on in the nation that is wrong like hunger, death, the troops, and all people are worried about is the Oscars.

“It just ain’t that deep,” Hubert said about the nation-wide controversy.

Even Whoopi Goldberg believes people should not be boycotting the Oscars.

“You wanna boycott something?”

Goldberg said on her hit talk show, “The View”. “Don’t go see the movies that don’t have your representation. That’s the boycott you want.”

photo courtesy of OSCARS.GO.COM

The Martian is one of the nominees for Best Picture for the 2016 Academy Awards.

9

entertainment

02.04.2016

‘13 Hours’ crushes true story film

ISLAND WAVES

MOVIE REVIEW

by ABBEY WEAVER staff writer

A

wave of emotions, constant heart-racing action and a permanent mark from the edge of ones seat is what you will get from watching the movie “13 Hours” in theaters now.

It is a story told by former director of “Transformers” Michael Bay from the perspective of six American soldiers stationed in Benghazi, Libya.

Based on true events, the story of these brave men exploits what really happened on Sept. 11, 2012, in this violent city.

The story begins with a disturbingly accurate representation of what its like to live in a country with a broken government and constant violence.

At this point in time, Benghazi was one of the most dangerous cities in the world. The end of the countries civil war only brought more conflict over power.

The plot shifts to the life of Jack played by John Krasinski, formerly known as “Jim” from The Office. Jack’s character is unique from the rest.

The other five soldiers used the real names of the real navy seals who were stationed in Benghazi, as did the rest of the cast. Jack however, was a name chosen for Krasinski’s part in order to protect the identity of the real soldier.

With two young girls and a pregnant wife at home, Jack’s re-stationing is a tough one.

Each character faces their own personal battles throughout the movie.

The audience gets a good look at the inner warfare soldiers in these types of secluded situations face. Each character handles the warfare differently and the movie does a great job displaying how an experience as traumatic as this one can break down even the strongest of men.

Personally, I have seen almost every modern war movie. This is my favorite genre of film because of the sheer adrenaline each one offers. Although I have seen dozens of movies like this one, “13 Hours” is different

photo courtesy of LATEST MOVIE TRAILERS

from the rest.

Not only does it have the latest technology to replicate such a corrupt scene as this one, but it surpasses expectations of character development and crushes the typical stereotypes with “based on a true story” movies.

The legitimacy of each scene in this film truly draws you in and gives you a taste of just how draining this job is for these men. The special effects are beyond its time and really amplify the accuracy of the movie.

The focus on the truth and precision to get the story told right was the

main focus of the film and that made it genuine and much more approachable. The plot built up of each character was done in a delicate yet powerful way. With this genre of film, it is vital to represent each character in a way that is relatable to the audience yet organic to the story. Bay captures the six Benghazi soldiers in a new and raw form that is difficult to replicate.

“13 Hours: The Secret Solders of Benghazi” is a must see as it is a story of truth, brotherhood and determination that will give Americans a new perspective on the military forces.

Dress for success: suits, skirts, ties, oh my FASHION SENSE

by ABBEY WEAVER staff writer

It is no question that we make opinions of people based on their appearance. We look at their hair, their shoes, their clothes, and everything else in order to make a first impression on them. Clothes are a way of expressing who you are and what kind of lifestyle you associate with.

Someone wearing a spurs jersey is presumably a spurs fan, someone in an athletic outfit maybe goes to the gym or plays a sport, etc.

We use the clothes we wear to make a statement about who we are.

How we present ourselves through our clothes can actually have a big impact on every activity in ones life.

That is why when it comes to important events such as interviews, presentations, and meetings, it is important to look ones best. Dressing in such a way that “sells yourself,” or, in other words, gives off a good impression in an effort to further ones success.

However picking out the right outfit for one of these already nerve racking events can be intimidating, so here are a few tips to help everyone dress for success.

1 Know the difference be-

photo courtesy of DEVIANTART.COM

tween casual, business casual, and business formal. Certain events call for different dress codes, make sure you know what is being expected.

Casual, in the case of a job interview or school presentation, means modest everyday wear. Jeans, a nice shirt and shoes is acceptable, but keep it toned down. Business casual means button down, tie, khakis, trousers, dress shoes, flats or heels for ladies, anything you think someone would wear round an office. Business formal is a suit and tie, nothing

else. For girls it can be a dress, skirt and blazer with a button down shirt underneath paired with heels or flats.

2 Keep it toned down, with only one thing to make you stand out.

These events are not the time to rock ones neon sneakers or anything else flashy. Keep the color scheme neutral and wear nothing that can be taken as offensive or negative. However, especially in the case of interviews, it is important to stand out. Choose one small thing

to separate you from the other candidates. A red lipstick worn professionally for girls is a great option.

For men, maybe very styled hair or a satchel. Utilizing one thing to be remembered will increase ones chance of success.

3 Wear your confidence. As important as it is to dress the way that is expected of you, you will also have to be comfortable with what you wear. If one of the items is too tight or causes you pain or discomfort, it will be noticeable. Choose pieces that you feel good in and that fit you in a flattering way. If you are having trouble getting comfortable with the look, ask a friend to reassure you. A second opinion is always helpful. Another way to make it seem more natural is to wear it more often. Find an excuse to wear the outfit a few days before this will make it seem more casual to you and more comfortable. Confidence is just as important as a professional look so make sure to wear your best smile and get good sleep so you look awake and alert.

Utilizing these tips will no doubt increase ones chance of success, whether it is a school presentation or an interview for your new job, looking your best will not only give off a good impression, but increase the quality of your performance.

10

campus

02.04.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Alpha Gamma Delta embodies sisterhood

by KACI ALVAREZ staff writer

T

here are multiple organizations that strive to make a difference, including Alpha Gamma Delta, one of the four National Panhellenic Council Sororities on campus.

According to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s Kappa Gamma chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta’s website, the chapter has been on campus since 1999 and was nationally founded in 1908 at Syracuse University. Each year, Alpha Gamma Delta organizes two major events to raise money for Diabetes Awareness and Education, which is their national philanthropy.

“I really like our Teeter-TotterA-Thon,” Cassidy Walden, junior education major and Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vice President of Operations, said. “It’s so fun. Like who wouldn’t want to be on a teeter-totter all day long to raise money for something you care about?”

Walden said philanthropy events are a great way for the sisterhood of Alpha Gamma Delta to increase.

The chapter also holds at least two sisterhood events a month so the women within the sorority can improve the bond between each other. The sisterhoods include tie dying T-shirts and movie nights.

“Our sisterhood is really strong because we are one of the most diverse sororities on campus but we all compliment each other well,” Walden said.

Jeena Jimenez, senior theater major and President of Alpha Gamma Delta, said she enjoys having sisters who are so close with one another.

“My favorite part about being in Alpha Gam is the memories I’ve made during the years,” Jimenez said.

All the memories Jimenez experienced with her Alpha Gamma Delta sisters is what made her college experience so unique.

photo by JAMIE FINK

Members of Alpha Gamma Delta pose for a quick photo with Izzy during the annual Dig Pink volleyball game.

“They’re my best friends and I don’t think I could’ve gotten through college without them and the bond we all have,” Jimenez said.

To join Alpha Gamma Delta, you have to sign up for formal recruitment in either the fall or spring. According to Walden, girls should go through recruitment

because it gives them the opportunity to find their home away from home and make life long friends.

For more information about Alpha Gamma Delta or Panhellenic recruitment as a whole, visit http:// greeklife.tamucc.edu/npc_index. html.

Chi Alpha spreads the good word

by CALEN BACY contributing writer

C

hi Alpha is a national organization that focuses on the walk with Christ by learning what it means to understand him better and taking action steps together to find purpose in the Gods plan for his followers.

Anna Rodriguez, a member of the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Chi Alpha chapter, tells us that the organization hosts weekly masses for the students to study the word of God, worship and to connect with other members. The masses are considered a judge free

place where students can open up and share personal stories about their journeys through Christ.

Chi Alpha offers these masses every Thursday night at 7 p.m. in Bay Hall room 103. The masses take place on campus for more convenience for the students. The masses also include many guest speakers from the South Texas area.

“Throughout the week, the Chi Alpha officers try to meet individually with the students to answer questions and discuss topics from the previous mass, so that we are all on the same page.”

Anna Rodriguez said. “We also try to meet up for fun activities to go to together, like going to the movies or out to eat. Most freshmen join our group and end up becoming great friends with people in our group. Joining is a great way to meet some awesome people and make friends.”

The group not only provides the students with helpful information on the word of God but also helps spread the word to the community as well. Chi Alpha participates in numerous mission trips around the costal bend.

The students are rewarded for

their great community service by going to various retreats and conferences throughout Texas to learn, relax and have fun fellowshipping with members from other universities.

Chi alpha offers the information, support and comforting environment of a church but on campus.

For more information, Chi Alpha has weekly meetings at 7p.m. on Thursdays in Bay Hall 103. For any other information contact their president Erin Cain at erinicole626@gmail.com or visit their page on OrgSync.

WILLIAM CLARK GREEN • SAM RIGGS • CODY JOHNSON & THE ROCKIN' CJB • JASON BOLAND & THE STRAGGLERS MICKY & THE MOTORCARS & MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED!

11

features

02.04.2016

Hardy breaks out of baseball mold

ISLAND WAVES

by SAMANTHA MAHLER staff writer

T

he Islanders baseball team finished the 2015 season as eighth in the Southland Conference. With the disappointment from last season riding on their back, the Islanders baseball team is hungrier than ever to get past the Southland Tournament.

Who might help lead them to victory? None other than 22-year-old outfielder Zacarias Hardy.

Born in Washington, D.C., Hardy began playing baseball at age 5. Hardy and his family moved around the country for his father’s work before finally settling in Texas when he was in the eighth grade.

At Keller High School in Keller, Texas, Hardy and his team went as far as the bi-district championship his senior year, where they fell short.

“It was up and down,” Hardy said.

“I think we were really talented the whole time I was there but I do think that we never really lived up to our full potential.”

While Hardy’s high school team may not have done all that they were capable of, Hardy is another story unto himself. As a redshirted athlete, Hardy has had the opportunity to hone his talent the past four years, ultimately making him the overnight sensation

he is today.

“It was great to kind of break out and do my thing. It’s something I feel like I’ve been able to do for a while,” Hardy said. “I’ve done well but it hasn’t been as well and I feel like even that year was kind of a glimpse of everything. I don’t think people saw everything I can do.”

This sort of confidence is what has made Hardy the player to watch this season.

“The light just came on. He always said he slowed the game down,” said Islanders baseball head coach Scott Malone. “He went from essentially playing golf at the country club to playing putt-putt. You know, it just got easier.”

As a designated hitter in previous seasons, Hardy did not get the chance to play the defense that he was used to as an outfielder. Hardy said he is most excited to get back into the game not only physically, but mentally as well.

“It helps me feel like I’m more in the game when I’m in the outfield,” Hardy said. “I think you lose the flow of the game when you DH. I got used to it, but I think being in the outfield is going to be a big help for me this year.”

Hardy said not being serious while playing the game is key. He credits having fun and playing each

photo by ELI BERKE

Zacarias Hardy is the player to watch in the outfield as he passes the baseball to his infield teammates.

game like it is a part of the Southland Conference as two huge elements to having a great season.

“I think we’re going to do the small things really well. We’re a really complete team overall so I think we’re going to have a good year,” Hardy said. “As long as we do the little things everyday—which I think we will—and make the everyday plays, keep the runs down

obviously, I think we’ll be set.”

“It’s going to be fun watching this kid play. I think that’s what the whole coaching staff is thinking right now.

Our expectations for him going into this season are really high,” Coach Malone said.

For a full view of Islander Athletics rosters, schedules, tickets, and more, please visit www. goislanders.com.

12

sports

02.04.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Islanders stay hot despite cold front

by JONATHAN FORNEY staff writer

O

n Tuesday, Jan. 26, the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Islanders men’s basketball team defeated the Lions of Southeast Louisiana 73-63 in a game that was broadcast across the nation on CBS Sports Network.

The win was due in large part to a rebounding edge provided by the Islanders and improved second half shooting.

photo by JONATHAN FORNEY

Senior guard Brandon Pye lines up one of his five 3-pointers during the Jan. 26 game against Southeast Louisianna

The Lions ran a 1-3-1 zone for the majority of the game, which is designed to keep the ball out of the middle of the floor. Historically, zones offer two primary concerns for the defenses running them: difficulty rebounding due to lack of true matchups and giving up perimeter shots. Both of these factors were huge for the Islanders in the victory.

On the shooting side of things, senior guard Brandon Pye added five 3-pointers to his 17 total points. Shooters like Pye were made for playing against zones and he did not waste his opportunities making more than half of his attempted threes. Additionally, Hameed Ali and Ehab Amin also contributed from deep.

“If [Pye] going to be prepared to do one thing, it’s going to be to shoot,” said junior forward Rashawn Thomas regarding Pye’s hot shooting in the win.

Across the board, the Islanders were taller at nearly every position and that height advantage was critical in the team’s rebounding edge. Thomas and Bryce Douvier each pulled in 12 rebounds. Their combined 24 rebounds were

almost as many rebounds as the Lions grabbed as a team (29). The Islanders won the overall rebound matchup 42-29.

“They play four guards, so when you play with a small lineup, it’s hard to rebound. So we wanted to make a concerted effort to get on the glass” said senior forward Douvier.

Each half told a different story.

In the first, the Islanders finished with a 28-27 lead despite shooting worse from field than their opponents. There was never a lead of more than six by either team in the first 20 minutes of action.

The second half was another tale entirely. The one-point lead taken into halftime ballooned to a 23-point lead with 7:16 remaining in the second half. The lead was in large part to simply making more shots. Field goal percentage improved from 39 percent to 48 percent largely due looking to go inside more frequently after halftime.

“We do a lot of things from an offensive standpoint. We wanted to make an adjustment to play more inside out,” said head coach Willis Wilson.

Despite the lead on paper, the team never really got ahead by a comfortable margin. The Lions kept cutting away at the lead and had it down to nine at one point during the second half run.

However the Islanders were able to finish the game and walk away with the 10-point victory.

“All in all, I think we’re headed in the right direction,” Wilson said.

The win over the Lions further stretches the nine-game winning streak the team is currently riding.

The program is off to its best start in school history at 16-3 and 7-0 in conference play. However the team is aware that they cannot get comfortable with where they are.

“We need to lock in and put that in the back of our heads until everything is said and done,” Thomas said.

Overall it was a good win for the team and a positive step as the Islanders prepare for their next game against Stephen F. Austin who sits atop the conference standings with the Islanders.

The game on Friday, Jan. 30 will certainly be a matchup to look out for.