Volume 27 Issue 08

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

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DEFINING THE “F” WORD

photos by JAMIE FINK

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

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opinion

03.10.2016

Acknowledge ‘HERstory’ in History ISLAND WAVES

by SAMANTHA MAHLER staff writer

T

he month of March is officially dedicated to celebrating the brave and fearless lives of women during a celebration entitled Women’s History Month.

Women’s History Month is a month dedicated to celebrating the impact women have made in the world, both recorded in history and those who were forgotten. It is the goal of Women’s History Month to honor the legacies of these women and to carry forth the lessons their journeys they left behind for others.

The celebration’s origins as a national event date back to 1981 when Pub. L. 97-28 was passed by Congress, authorizing the President to declare the week of March 7, 1982, “Women’s History Week.”

For the next five years, Congress continued passing joint resolutions

to declare a week in March “Women’s History Week.”

In 1987 thanks to a petition by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9, which proclaimed the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.”

Between the years 1988 and 1994, Congress continued to pass more resolutions that requested and authorized the President to declare March of each year Women’s History Month.

Since 1995, Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama have each issued a series of annual proclamations that designate the month of March as Women’s History Month.

In addition International Women’s Day will be officially celebrated on March 8, 2016. The event is designed to celebrate women’s efforts across the globe and to accelerate gender equality in countries with fewer freedoms than the United States of America. The theme for International Women’s Day 2016 is #PledgeForParity.

In a Presidential Proclamation on the official White House website, President Barack Obama states, “Throughout history, women have driven humanity forward on the path to a more equal and just society, contributing in innumerable ways to our character and progress as a people. In the face of discrimination and undue hardship, they have never given up on the promise of America: that with hard work and determination, nothing is out of reach.”

President Obama also declared that the White House would hold a summit on “The United State of Women,” that will call attention to the progress made both in the United States and across the world to help women confront their daily challenges and strive to achieve their goals.

Each year, the National Women’s History Project declares a different theme. The group has since announced the theme of National Women’s History Month 2016 as “Working to Form a More Perfect

Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government.”

This theme honors those women whose efforts in public service and government leadership have shaped both the history and future of the United States.

There are a total of 16 honorees listed on the National Women’s History Month website that will be celebrated by the organization.

Each honoree comes from a different background and used her service in a different way, ultimately creating a large melting pot of feminist effort.

Listed among these honorees are Daisy Bates, Ella Grasso, Judy Hart and Barbara Mikulski, not to mention many others whose efforts do not go unnoticed.

For more information on Women’s History Month, International Women’s Day and to learn more about the women who have shaped the country, please visit www.womenshistorymonth.com, www. internationalwomensday.org or www.nwhp.org.

Appreciate the women around you

by JAMIE FINK editor-in-chief

M

arch is Women’s History Month. A time to focus not just on the past, but on the challenges women continue to face everyday.

For this special edition of Island Waves, we take the time to pause in our busy college schedules and appreciate everything that has been done for us by women.

When you reflect on your own life, who are some of the first people who come to mind –your mom, aunt, sister or possibly

a grandmother. Why are these people the first to come to mind?

Is it because they are nurturing, caring and loving or because they are strong, independent and fearless?

Women play a huge role in our lives from beginning to end. This amazing gender has brought us into the world. Given us a chance to leave our own imprint on the world and make a difference. They watch us from our first words to our first goodbye as we move out on our own. Sure at times they can be emotionally overwhelming, but

so are we when it comes to certain things.

Women have fought for equality, change and respect in the world, they still are. They will continue to fight long after they have achieved these things.

This issue of Island Waves is our nod to all the women past, present and future who set out to make a difference in the world, by being strong, courageous and influential in anyone’s life they may cross.

For without women, the world would be a lonely, cold place.

Without the nurturing guidance

given by mothers, through the pains of labor, the nights with sick children and the times of just watching in silence, we would all be lost.

“I hate to hear you talk about all women as if they were fine ladies instead of rational creatures. None of us want to be in calm waters all our lives.”

Those famous words from Jane Austen, in my opinion, represent everything that women have still yet to achieve in the world. They are just waiting for the opportune time to shine.

Send letters to the Editor: Editor@tamucc.edu JAMIE FINK Editor-in-chief

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opinion

03.10.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Clothes are not an invitation for rape

by ABBEY WEAVER staff writer

M

arch is feminism month, it is a time to celebrate being a woman and all the amazing things females have accomplished in our time.

However, this is also a time to reflect. Reflect on how far women have come, where we stand now, and where we should be headed in the future. It is a time to come together and strive for changes still yet to be addressed.

A main topic that has recently taken the spotlight in the media is sexual assault and rape against women. The burst of coverage on this topic is mostly due to the pop artist Kesha, who has made

an effort to exploit her assault story, and bring awareness to an often ignored subject. Well known feminists such as Demi Lovato and Taylor Swift, have joined Kesha’s movement to shine a light on rape culture and advocate women’s social rights.

One of the main controversies within this subject is deciding who’s to blame. Too often, a female will come to authorities or any person of power and the woman becomes the subject of interrogation rather than the man accused. “Well, what were you wearing?” The question that has too often been asked of girls or young women who attempt to receive help after being assaulted.

This question is not only dismissing the wrongdoing of the actual crime, but placing the guilt onto the female

victim, who is already most likely experiencing haunting trauma. One of the main goals of feminists who speak on this subject is to teach girls that it is never their fault.

Women have a right to their own bodies and to do with them what they please. Just because a girl was at a certain place at a certain time does not mean she was asking for it. Your clothes do not determine whether it is okay for you to be sexually harassed in any way, shape or form. No means no. If the victim did not give consent, then it is in no way their fault by any means.

This controversy has become an issue worldwide. Women are being blamed for their own rape and assault. There are still places on this earth where throwing acid on a wife’s face because she misbehaved is legal

I WASN’T ASKING FOR IT

and expected. Women are being held as slaves, kidnapped and transported across continents to be forced into sex for the rest of their lives.

There are women in the U.S. controlled by pimps who force them to meet a certain quota of men they have pleased just to live to see the next day. There are young girls being abused by men they trust and are too scared to speak up.

Take this month as an opportunity to spread awareness of rape culture.

It is our duty as women to stay accountable for each other and support each other on a world scale.

Girls must be taught that if they are sexually abused in any way, it is not their fault. A man taking advantage of a female body is never okay, no matter the circumstances. Make sure to spread the word and remember that no means no.

IZZY SNEED

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In the meantime, pick up some free coffee and a paper on Thursdays in the Subway alcove.

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news

03.10.2016

Corpus Chrisit Idol celebrates six years ISLAND WAVES

by SAMANTHA MAHLER staff writer

T

he Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi Department of Theatre and Dance recently hosted Corpus Christi Idol and Junior Idol of Corpus Christi.

The event was sponsored by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, 96.5 The Beach, La Palmera and Pepsi.

Auditions were held in the Food Court at La Palmera Mall on Thursday, Feb. 19, through Saturday, Feb. 21. There was a $10 processing fee to audition.

“This is the sixth year for Corpus Christi Idol and the third year for Junior Idol of Corpus Christi,” said Professor J. Don Luna. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for people from all over the community to come and showcase their talent. For students in college, high school, middle school, or even elementary, it all works very well.”

The prize money for Junior Idol of Corpus Christi is $100 for 1st place and $50 each for 2nd and 3rd place winners.

“We set up in the mall and people from all over Corpus and even Alice and other places came and auditioned,” junior theatre major Sarah White said.

“Some people even came from San Antonio.”

For Corpus Christi Idol winners, prize money is $300 for 1st place and $100 each for 2nd and 3rd place.

“It’s good because you can win money, but the most important thing and the reason why we do it is for scholarships,” White said. “The theatre department doesn’t have that much money for scholarships and so we have this as a fundraiser.”

The event is just one of five events the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Department of Theatre and Dance puts on in

order to fundraise for scholarships.

“We’ve raised over $30,000 in scholarship money over the last five years so it’s been very successful,” Luna said. “We’re very appreciative of all the help we’ve been given. The students donated their time and energy to putting this event together.”

The audience determined the Top 10 contestants in each category during the semi finals.

During the final round, three celebrity judges were brought in to help critique. The judges were Lydia Blanco of the Blanco Talent Agency; Heidi Hovda, who is an actress and director; and John-Thomas Kobos of Kiii 3 News.

The semi-finals were held on Thursday, Feb. 25, at 7 p.m. for the Top 20 Junior Idol Contestants and Friday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m. for the Top 20 Corpus Christi Idol Contestants.

Finals were held on Saturday, Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. for the Top 10 Junior Idol of Corpus Christi and Corpus Christi Idol Top Ten. Both events were held at the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Performing Arts Center.

General admission was $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Proceeds from Corpus Christi Idol and Junior Idol of Corpus Christi support scholarships and student programming needs for the Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi Department of Theatre and Dance.

For more information on Corpus Christi Idol, Junior Idol of Corpus Christi, and other Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Theatre events, please visit www.cla.tamucc.edu/theatre or contact Professor J. Don Luna at 361-825-5988 or don.luna@ tamucc.edu.

Feminism is not for just women

by GERI LEMMONS staff writer

W

ith there being more and more of an even playing field for men and women there are still some things that are yet considered to be equal.

Being a feminist is not something exclusive to just women, men can be one also and it is actually important to recognize this.

Kaiden Hernandez, junior art major, said he definitely thinks that men as well as women should be feminist because it is 2016 and we all deserve equal rights.

“I don’t think there is a place in our society for that kind of backward thinking,” Hernandez said.

Being a feminist is about believing men and women should have equal rights and should

play on an equal field. It is important for men to be a part of a movement like feminism because it makes it that much stronger and it helps everyone out in the end.

Jon Gonzalez, senior history major, said in the history major they focus on a different aspect because there is no such thing as a history without women.

“If it wasn’t for the women in the past and the study of the hardships they went through it would be a totally different country,” Gonzalez said. “We should understand the traumatic experience that women had to go through to get us here, like the fight for the right to vote.

Now we have a women running for president.”

The belief and the idea of feminism is important for everyone to understand whether or not

they agree with it or not. Men need to be feminists because it is the type of thought and movement that will make them more forward thinkers and will help them out in the long run.

This does not mean that they need to be a complete expert on women’s rights and know every struggle that women go through but they at least need to feel like the world should be more equal when it comes to the treatment of men and women.

Bryant Reynolds, senior history major, said men should be feminists because it is a completely different society from what the four founding fathers had back then and everyone is in a changing society. Reynolds said feminism is nothing to be ashamed of and it is nothing to cower behind. Masculinity and femininity should go hand

in hand, you can not have one without the other. Reynolds said men should put their pride away and want the same equal rights.

“We have rights that we had extend to everybody and everyone deserves to have it, racewise everyone should be able to have it,” Reynolds said. “We should all be able to change, we should all be able to share in our different experiences. I think it would be great if we all share in the thoughts of feminism.”

Being a feminist does not mean that men now have to have all the same thoughts that women do. It just means they share beliefs that all add up to equality. It is important for men to at least see what it is to be a feminist and see if those views line up with their own. They should put a side society’s views and make up their own minds.

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news

03.10.2016

Birth control changing everything ISLAND WAVES

by GERI LEMMONS staff writer

B

irth control has definitely changed from its humble beginnings a long time ago. There are so many different forms of birth control and they cater to lots of different lifestyles.

From different shots, pills and implants there are many options women can use to keep themselves up to date, with each one lasting different lengths of time.

Felicia DeMartino, sophomore special education major, said she chose the option of the implant in her arm because it was the most effective. The one that she has is 99 percent effective and she got all the information form her OBGYN and decided this was her best option.

“So far it has been really good there has been some drawbacks.” she said. “The big pro is not getting pregnant, but the con is I have gained weight and it messes up your menstrual cycle, I am now getting them twice a month.”

DeMartino said the decision to go with this plan started when she started dating her boyfriend and she wanted to make sure that she was fully prepared when she was ready.

In the past most people know only about the pill and how they are supposed to take it every day in order to prevent pregnancy.

However now there are implants in the arm and shots that can be taken in order to prevent pregnancy also.

The implant in the arm lasts for about three years DeMartino said. The shot lasts for three months while with the pill one has to remember to take every day. DeMartino said another reason why she chose her option was because she can be really forgetful and thought she needed to get something that she would not have to think about for a while. She said if she had to choose between doing the shot or the pill, she would go with the shot.

There are also implants that go in other places of the body.

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Plan B One-Step and Aftera are just two of the numerous types of birthcontrols out there for women to use.

This is another technology that is available to females who want another option. This one can be put in and removed whenever the woman decides she wants it to come out.

Anissa Ramirez, junior education major, said she thinks birth control is good especially if one does not want to get pregnant. Ramirez said she has a lot of friends that have bad periods and their doctor prescribed them to take birth control to help.

“When it comes to the ones that are implants, once it is there it is there, it easier than taking a pill every day and maybe forgetting and thinking, ‘Oh crap now I am

pregnant because I forgot to take my pill’,” Ramirez said.

With new technology women now have different options and have more of a say as to what they want to do with their body’s and how they want to protect themselves. They can decide to go with whatever option fits the lifestyle that they wish to have.

There is not just one method anymore and women are free to do whatever makes them feel comfortable and has them feel like they made the best choice.

With technology still changing who knows what could come next.

There are even more options out there that were listed and there will soon be even more.

Anissa Ramirez is just one of the many female college students across the country that use birth control as a preventive measure.

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entertainment

03.10.2016

Females can be superheroes, too

ISLAND WAVES

by KACI ALVAREZ staff writer

Superhero movies are one of the greatest hits in today’s society.

People love seeing an unexpected heartthrob of a boy kick butt against the strangely enormous amount of villains in the city, but what about women?

With the new “Deadpool” movie that recently came out and the new “Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice” movie that will be released later on in March, male superheroes are dominant in the media world.

There are so many different female superheroes yet there are not any major movies that revolve around them. Sure, the Black Widow is in “The Avengers,” but there is no story revolving around her. Wonder why that is?

Well, here are some empowering female superheroes that should definitely have their big screen movie break.

1. Raven According to DC Comics website, Raven is the daughter of a human mother and an interdimensional father. Since the Justice League of America rejected her, she helped create the Teen Titans, which later became a hit TV show on Cartoon Network.

Some of her powers include emotional manipulation, psychic power, supernatural knowledge, telekinesis and teleportation.

Raven could use her powers in ways to help citizens escape from the evils of any villains or use her powers to become the villain like what happened in her comics, which would make a pretty interesting movie.

2. The Runaways No, this is not the Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning movie all about the female ‘70s rock band. According to the Marvel comic book website, “The Runaways” is a story about six teenagers, predominantly female, who run away from home after witnessing the their families murder and sacrifice a young innocent girl for a secret ritual.

The teenagers soon found out later that they have supernatural powers, including becoming a mutant during puberty and have to fight their parents multiple times.

“The Runaways” could resonate with a much younger crowd if it were made into a film due, to the conflicts between the teenagers and the families, which can be somewhat, related to the teenage angst most young adults go through.

3. Elektra Another Marvel female superhero is Elektra. She is the

only female superhero that has had her own movie that came out in 2005. However, the movie did not do well resulting in only a 30 percent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Elektra is well trained in martial arts and was an assassin and bounty hunter for hire. The girl is tough, which surprises many as to why the movie did so poorly.

Within today’s society, people are more accepting of empowered females, especially in the entertainment and media industry. If a remake of an Elektra movie came out in now, the ratings would potentially be exponentially better and be more appreciated.

Female superheroes are everywhere within comic books but major production companies in Hollywood do not seem to want to make feature films about them due to the American mindset of dominance in a male, even though lead female roles are crucial for the success of a film.

So one has to ask why there are not major films based on empowered and kick-butt female superheroes being made? There are plenty to choose from, but all anyone can do is wait for Hollywood to adapt to the gender-neutral outlook of the world.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ACHIEVE PARTNER

illustrations by IZZY SNEED

Comic fans male and female alike have voiced their opinions about the lack of female superheroes seen on today’s big screen. Marvel has the smaller group of superheroines, with whom we’ve only seen three guest starring in a male dominated film, while DC Comics has over 100 known superheroines just waiting for their shot at the big screen.

To learn more or become an Achieve Partner please visit achievepartnership.tamucc.edu

03.10.2016

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entertainment

The Heidi Chronicles

ISLAND WAVES

photos by ELI BERKE

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entertainment

03.10.2016

Hollywood advocates women’s rights ISLAND WAVES

by SLOANE ZAPATA contributing writer

F

eminism. What is it? Merriam Webster defines it as, “the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.”

However, feminism is much more than that. It is a movement, a feeling, a step in the right direction and without the current women in the entertainment industry, feminism would not be allowed to get the amount of attention that it needs.

In retrospect, all women should be feminists. Why would people not fight for their equality? Nonetheless, there are definitely gaps between the women who openly support feminism and those who decide to stay “neutral.”

Multiple students on campus were asked whose name came to mind when they heard the words “feminist in the entertainment industry.” Here are some of the responses: “Jennifer Lawrence is the one I know of that has been making waves,” Brook Ianna, senior biomedical sciences major, said.

“She talks about the unequal pay between male and female actors.”

On the other hand, Mia Green, freshman undeclared major, said Beyonce was her main inspiration in terms of feminists in the entertainment industry. “… she is a strong influential woman, and younger women look up to her,” Green said. “She has a cause to empower women which she progresses by making her music.”

Amy Poehler is another example of a feminist in the entertainment industry. For those who are not familiar with Poehler, she is the lead role on the hit television series “Parks and Recreation.” Her character on the show is Leslie Knope, a very strong, work-driven and politically active young woman.

Likewise, from the beginning of her career, Poehler has been pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a female in the entertainment business. She began her career through sketch comedy and took on raunchy, comedic roles that were unusual for women.

This being said, Poehler’s own ideals are not far off from the character of Leslie Knope. In her

most recent book “Yes Please” Poehler touches on topics such as the idea that woman are given certain roles to play. They are expected to think, feel and react in the way that men see fit. A quote from her book displays how she herself, loves the idea of woman in charge who can speak her mind.

“Let me take a minute to say I love bossy women. Some people hate the word, and I understand how ’bossy’ can seem like a shitty way to describe a woman with a determined point of view, but for me, a bossy woman is someone to search out and to celebrate,” Poehler said.

To her, bossy women are to be cherished and applauded. To this day, women are still deemed “unlady like” if they choose to speak their mind. When men do this it is seen as “strong willed” but when a woman decides to voice an unpopular opinion or attempts to take charge of a situation, it is seen as “bitchy.” This is a norm that Poheler is trying to combat. She wants women everywhere to know that being bossy is not a bad thing.

Another person that comes to mind when thinking about feminists in the entertainment industry was in line with Green’s

thoughts. Beyonce has been an icon for almost two decades now. She began in a girl power R&B group, Destiny’s Child, and has not slowed down since. Beyonce has always been prevalent in the media and she is a role model.

In an interview with CNN, Beyonce said, “I’ve always considered myself a feminist, although I was always afraid of that word because people put so much on it, when honestly, it’s very simple. It’s just a person that believes in equality for men and women. Men and women balance each other out, and we have to get to a point where we are comfortable with appreciating each other.”

Not surprisingly, Beyonce said it best, feminists are just people that “believe in equality for men and women.”

It is true, there is a stigma on the word feminism. Many people hear that word and their minds turn to the most radical feminists. With any movement there are going to be radicals. It is to the responsibility of the women in the limelight like Amy Poehler and Beyonce to elaborate on what it really means to be a feminist. Without these stars supporting the feminist movement, the stigma will never dissipate.

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Amy Poehler receives a 2012 Anual Peanody Award.

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entertainment

03.10.2016

Female empowering films

ISLAND WAVES

by ABBEY WEAVER staff writer

1Since March is feminism month, it is the perfect excuse to binge on chick flicks. There is nothing better than hanging out with girl friends and watching the “Titanic” three times in a row. Here is a list of female empowering movies that will get anyone into the feminist spirit.

1 “The Other Woman” starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Upton, Leslie Mann and Nicki Minaj, is a film that will not only make you feel like a new woman, but also have you on your floor in laughter. The story follows three women who cross paths through their cheating husbands and/or boyfriend. It is a story of womanhood and teaches the benefits of having independence, rather than depending on a man.

This movie will give you a good laugh and an overwhelming feeling of confidence, and who could not use a little bit of that?

2 “The Rebound” starring Catherine Zeta-Jones and Justin Bartha, is a story of a recently divorced mother who finds refuge in a younger man. This is a romantic comedy that breaks the boundaries of female social expectations. It explores the struggles of heartbreak and living as a single mother. It is a story that will make you laugh and challenge societies expectations of older women in the dating pool.

Definitely a must see this month.

3 “Cake” starring Jennifer Aniston, follows the seemingly miserable life of a pessimistic middle age woman who lost her young son in a car accident. Through her recent divorce, constant medical care and self-blame, this film is a journey to reconciliation and forgiveness. This movie shows females in a vulnerable way that they are not often seen, and creates a character that women can relate to during times of loss. A moving performance and empowering to say the least.

4 “LOL” starring Miley Cyrus and Demi Moore is a story of a girl named Lola in who is struggling to find herself in a world of peer pressure and social expectations.

Her home life and school life clash between her protective mother, daring friends and a daunting crush. It is a story of the truth about growing up, the struggles young girls face in todays society and the strong bond between mother and daughter. This is a chick flick that is completely relatable and pleasantly exhilarating.

5 “Pitch Perfect” starring Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson and Brittany Snow follows a female acapella group and their journey to find their sound. This story showcases the beauty of friendship and sisterhood as the female characters, all with extremely diverse backgrounds,

photo courtesy COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG

(Left to Right) Co-stars Kate Upton, Cameron Diaz, and Leslie Mann take a photo together for thier movie ‘The other woman.’

photo by ABBEY WEAVER

come together against the male competition. Not only is the humor silent-laugh worthy, but the plot is a great way to help you appreciate your girlfriends a little bit more.

Also check out the just as good, if not better, sequel “Pitch Perfect 2.”

Every story line of each of these films showcases a different kind of woman and exploits the more vulnerable parts of womanhood that

most women are not comfortable to share publicly. They allow women and young girls to relate to the characters and learn that all females experience similar things, and you are never alone. Each of these movies is a great way to feel empowered this month and get involved in the feminist movement.

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entertainment

03.10.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Rom Com’s impact on feminism

by KACI ALVAREZ staff writer

R

omantic comedies also known as rom coms are one of the most popular and most praised movie genres within today’s society. Some of the most awarded movies in today’s generation have been romantic comedies.

While the majority of viewers love a good heart-wrenching story there are some people who believe this genre has a distasteful portrayal of women.

Romantic comedies are known for starting off with a damsel in distress that just went through some life changing moment or event. She then meets a handsome stud who automatically sweeps her off her feet and they live happily ever after.

Wesley Jackson, junior nursing major, agrees with the repeating story line of the genre and how it has a negative impact on women.

“Rom com’s result in women having a higher standard in guys that is unrealistic for the most part,” Jackson said.

Women in today’s society have extremely high expectations when it comes to finding the “right guy”.

If he does not make random romantic gestures or call their

girlfriends cute names, girls within this generation do not want anything to do with the relationship.

Not only do romantic comedies set a high standard for women who are looking for a romantic relationship but it can also portray women in a negative light by making them seem as if they need a man in order for them to be truly happy or fulfilled.

“I think romantic comedies portray women in a bad way because it teaches women to rely on a man early on rather than going in their own direction,” said Angela Curran, junior communication major.

At times this genre of film depicts females as very needy individuals who cannot officially start life until they meet the man of their dreams.

Feminists from all over the country have protested romantic comedies for because of just that reason.

Feminism is known for promoting empowered women who strive in the work place as well as in a personal environment. They want people to know that women do not need a man in order to be happy.

While there are many reasons as to why romantic comedies portray women in a negative manner, there

Movie clip from “50 first dates”

photos couresy of FLICKR.COM

are also many positive reasons why women keep on watching them.

Curran said while romantic comedies can portray women in a negative way, women, especially within the millennial generation, continuously watch them because they are entertaining.

“Romantic comedies provide a good source of entertainment,” Curran said. “It allows the viewer to escape into a different universe filled with a dreamy love story and knee slapping comedy. It’s the perfect mix.”

The entertainment factor of the genre is highly important because of the revenue Hollywood and the

film industry accumulates. Without the loyal following that consists of mostly teenagers and young adults, romantic comedies would not thrive, and while some believe that romantic comedies can be dangerous, the employment within the industry would be slim to none.

While romantic comedies are controversial due to negative representation of women and how they live the movies are however perfect for late-night movie sessions with best friends.

What are some other thoughts on romantic comedies? Do you romantic comedies portray women in a positive or negative manner?

largest grant that the PASS program currently has is a research grant for the First In The World (FITW) programs that Dr. Matthews wrote, the federal government funded only 24 grants and Matthews was one of them. However, regardless of how qualified Dr. Matthews is, she still a woman. She notes that women in educational administrative positions are still given lower pay than the men in the exact same positions.

“Salary wise, my experience is that no matter what your level is, a lot of times you still don’t make the same as a male,” Matthews said. “It has changed some, but it’s nowhere near being equal pay.”

There have been many leaps and bounds for women in the past 60 years but there is still a lack of equality in the work place, especially for higher level positions.

“Things are getting better,” Matthews said. “They’re just not where they need to be.”

On the other hand, some women never even get to this position of empowerment because of the standards placed on women.

Ruggles advice to these women is this, “Do it, do it, do it, do it. There

is plenty of room in academia for more academics,” Ruggles said.

“Don’t ever believe the lies that you are not smart enough to do work in higher education. Whether it is you thinking it, or someone else saying it to you.”

Ruggles advice is something that every woman should remember at all times. There are always going to be people that do not want women to succeed. In the current state of America, women have so many opportunities that they never had before. Think back to only about 60 years ago in the 1950’s era of the United States. Women had little to no opportunities.

They were expected to be only mothers and wives, while their husbands went out and lived there dreams. Now there are women all around the country that are going out and pursuing their passions. The women who are in college reading this article at this very moment are defying the odds of women.

Women are an inspiration and if they continue on this path they can become a woman in power, just like the women interviewed for this article.

Empowered woman at the Island University

by SLOANE ZAPATA contributing writer

W

hen thinking about women of power many tend to first think of people such as Michelle Obama or Hillary Clinton, and they would be right. However, there are women in power everywhere, even here at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

“I feel like women are viewed more as caretakers in this field, so I hope that it puts the students at ease when they see that they have a female professor for Composition,” Professor Kristen Ruggles said. “I know that that is a horrible sounding statement and rife with gender stereotyping, but I want my students to feel at ease with me from day one, because college is a scary place sometimes.”

In retrospect, Ruggle’s statement about women being caregivers is true for any woman in power. Women are naturally seen as more compassionate and caring than men. In terms of women in powerful positions, this can be an extremely beneficial trait.

There is already so much stigma on the idea that when a woman is in a position of power she will act irrationally when she is on her

period.But in reality that is complete hogwash.

When women are on their period their testosterone levels are higher, but they are actually at the same level as a man’s testosterone levels at all times. So with that in mind, women are technically more stable for powers of position than men.

Going back to what Ruggles’ said women do have a motherly side to them. This makes them more approachable and not as intimidating as men. This is definitely beneficial in terms of women in power, considering that their audience and subordinates will be more likely to come to them with problems, causing problems to be solved quicker and more efficiently.

Although there are some benefits to being a woman being in a position of power there are without a doubt more inconveniences to the role than the benefits.

Dr. Matthews oversees eight different programs for academic student support. All of these programs are extremely beneficial to the success of students at A&MCorpus Christi and they are all maintained by Dr. Matthews. The

11

sports

03.10.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Title IX: The game-changer for women

by JONATHAN FORNEY staff writer

Women in the United States have not always been able to participate in sports through their educational institutions. Things really began to change in 1972. This historic year marked the passing of Title IX of the Education Amendments, which protects individuals from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive financial assistance.

“I think it’s interesting that Title IX has been so influential for sports considering that was not in the original plan, being a more academic based plan and all, but it’s great to see things getting closer to being equal,” said sophomore marine biology major, Randi Cannon.

The implication of this title have allowed for more women to go on to pursue postsecondary degrees, participate in athletics and many other activities operating through academic systems. In terms of

athletics today, there are thousands of female student athletes around the country participating in dozens of different sports and activities.

Looking at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi specifically, there are more than 10 different official Division I sports for women, not to mention sports clubs and intramurals. The passing of Title IX has opened up opportunities to female student athletes that would have been unheard of just mere decades ago.

In today’s day and age, the significance of Title IX goes further than current players. It affected their parents, their coaches (some of whom were former players themselves), the fans who come out to support them and all the others involved in making collegiate athletics a memorable experience.

“Title IX has enabled me to play the sport I love [softball] for so many years,” senior outfielder, Dani Tefft, said.

By allowing women to participate in sports, Title IX helped paved the way toward gender equality both in terms of recognition as well as opportunity. Things are still far

The Islanders softball team comes together in group huddle before their game.

from equal. For instance, male collegiate sports programs take in significantly more profits and media coverage as opposed to their female counterparts. The passing of Title IX was a huge step forward on a journey of many steps.

“I think women’s sports aren’t taken as seriously as male sports and aren’t given nearly as much attention, but big-name female athletes like Ronda Rousey are helping people realize that the intensity in women’s sports can be just as entertaining as that of the males. So it’s definitely a step in the right direction,” sophomore biology major Melissa Charles said.

Providing opportunities for

photo by JAMIE FINK

women to compete, the country has opened itself up to a future of true societal equality. In the grand scheme of things, sports are small, but for what it means to girls to see other women thriving athletically, it should give them all the more reason to hope that they can be like them someday.

Title IX and its impact cannot be overstated. It has given countless women and girls opportunities to be successful, earn scholarships, find their passions and become better people through sports. There is still a ways to go before the United States truly has gender equality, but Title IX certainly helped get things started.

12

sports

03.10.2016

Why yes, we do play like a girl ISLAND WAVES

by JONATHAN FORNEY staff writer

M

arch 1, 2016 marks the beginning of this year’s Women’s History Month. The month is aimed to highlight the achievements, progress and successes of women across the United States.

One place the progression of women is very prominent is in collegiate sports. Women have been involved in collegiate athletics since 1972 and the passing of Title IX of the Education Amendments.

At Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, female athletes have the opportunity to showcase the fruits of their efforts and represent the Island University in the process. Sports include track and field, volleyball, basketball, soccer, beach volleyball, softball, golf, cross country and tennis. Also there are the intramural and unofficial programs offered to students throughout the school year. There is no shortage of ways to see great feats of sport by fellow Islanders.

“Sports have helped women gain a lot of respect because they demonstrate how powerful, fierce and beautiful women are,” said sophomore biology major and former high school volleyball player, Melissa Charles. Charles has actually been involved with the sport since sixth grade.

Women have not had an easy ride to where they are today in the collegiate sports world. Similar to the social, institutional and societal hoops women had to jump through to gain suffrage, they had to fight for their right to play, too.

The pre-established ideals of masculinity and femininity did not allow for women to take confident positions of athletic success, let alone provide them a venue to

courtesy of GOISLANDERS.COM

The ladies of the University’s soccer team working together to better their skills in their first practice of their 2015-2016 season.

perform. Dating back to before the nineteenth century, it was clear women had the desire and drive to perform on athletic stages, but society wanted no part of it. For example, in 1943, the All American Girls’ Baseball League was formed to play in the ballparks that were emptied after men went to war.

Over the years women have taken enormous leaps toward equality in the world of sports.

“Males used to belittle women who tried to take on an athletic role. Now many people look up and idolize amazing female athletes,” senior outfielder, Dani Tefft said.

As is the case with many social justice issues in society, women’s representation in sports mainly comes down to opportunities. Little girls deserve the right to look to their favorite sports and believe it is totally feasible for them to dream of being the successful athletes.

It is clear women are just as com-

petitive and capable as their male counterparts. Take the University of Connecticut’s Lady Husky basketball, which has 900 plus all time victories in only 33 seasons (for contrast, the winningest male basketball team has 2000 plus in 112 seasons). Point being, in less than one-third the time, a women’s team has nearly half as many wins as the winningest program in collegiate basketball time.

Islander women’s athletes are students first and athletes second, after all, and they are more than capable of balancing academics and athletics. For instance, the women’s cross country team earned Division I All-Academic Team honors as well as placing in the top three four times last season.

Understanding the hoops women needed to jump through to get to where they are today in the sports world is crucial to progressing things further towards total equality. As a society, it is apparent that the goal has not yet been reached, but steps in the right direction are being taken.

“Women still need more recognition as athletes and not just women athletes, that they are truly equal,” sophomore biology major and former high school basketball player, Serina Treviño, said.

Unfortunately, concepts like the

wage gap carry over to women’s athletics as well. Despite these shortcomings, the route women’s sports are taking is a positive one and going forward there is plenty of room for improvement. With the competitive drive and desire seen by today’s women, maybe everyone should aspire to play like a girl. photo by JAMIE FINK

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Sophomore Brittany Mbamalu represents her Islander basketball team.

photo by GOISLANDERS.COM

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