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Day at the Capitol demonstrates pride by KACI ALVAREZ • Page 4
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ELSi ceases operations at university Page 6
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March 3, 2017 Volume 28, Issue 6
Opinions Page 2 Entertainment Page 9 Sports Page 11
2 Opinion STUDENT PUBLICATION OF TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITYCORPUS CHRISTI
03.02.2017
Midsemester breakdown prevention IZZY SNEED @IzzySneed
Midterms are upon us. That assignment you swore was ISLAND WAVES STI | ISLANDWAVESNEWS.COM | due VOLUME 26 ISSUEfrom 20 | now—it’s 08.27.15 a month IslandWavesNews.com due tomorrow. You’d been doing so well at keeping it toEditor-in-chief gether, but now you’re not so KACI ALVAREZ sure you’ll be able to keep it up. Web We’re nearly half way MIKAYLA OELSCHLEGEL, editor through the semester and JEFFREY THOMAS, on-air talent it’s easy for momentum to MITCHELL JACKSON, vid. editor dwindle as our class loads increase. Spring Break is on our Copy Editor minds and, despite knowing KATIE MEZA better, we’re online shopping for new swimsuits, making a Visuals Netflix binge list or doing anyIZZY SNEED, editor ZACH ALDRIDGE, photographer
Layout KARA HERRERA, editor VINCENT VERDUZCO, assistant
Reporters GERI LEMMONS, features JONATHAN FORNEY, sports MELISSA RODRIGUEZ, news SARAH REEVES, news AMERICA SEGURA, sports
Graduate Assistant BRADY BURNS, advertising
Faculty Adviser WENDY MOORE
ABOUT ISLAND WAVES Island Waves is a studentproduced publication at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. The newspaper is printed weekly, except during summer sessions. Any student or University employee may submit material and opinions for publication consideration. To become a contributor, e-mail or call the Island Waves editor. CONTACT US 6300 Ocean Drive Unit 5783 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 825-5862 editor@tamucc.edu ads@tamucc.edu
thing but homework. While I, admittingly, give in to some of these distractions, I’ve been able to stay on top of my homework, my job and give some extra time to my boyfriend and cats. Here’s how I’ve been doing it: 1. Create a Schedule: I don’t mean write stuff down in your agenda and hope you remember to check it later. I’m talking a full-scale, hourby-hour itinerary for your homework. Something like this doesn’t need to happen every weekend. But when you’ve got three projects and a test due Monday and Tuesday sometimes you have to wrangle in the homework. (Plus, crossing things off your to-do list is so satisfying). Just
don’t forget to schedule in a few breaks! 2. Work-Out: This sounds weird because why, when you already have so much to do, would you add more to that list? Working out gives you so much energy. Less than an hour after hitting the gym, you’ll be a completely reenergized and feel good about yourself because you did something for yourself. You’ll be motivated and ready to tackle that mound of homework building up. 3. Set a Goal: Is it your goal to maintain a certain GPA? Or to simply pass the class without a mental breakdown? Or to get at least a B on your upcoming project? Whatever your goal is, make sure it’s
realistic and that you get a reward for accomplishing it. Buy yourself the video game you’ve been eyeballing or hang out with your friends for the first time since winter break. Personally, I love treating myself to a shopping spree at Threads—a local consignment shop here in Corpus Christi at 4646 Everhart Rd. Keeping it together is probably the hardest thing you’ll do as a college student, and nobody has all of the answers. I can only help guide you in the few ways I know how. College will be over before you know it, and you’ll hardly remember all the stressful nights of cramming information, but, until then, study hard.
Yes I have anxiety, no it's not just in my head MIKAYLA OELSCHLEGEL @mikaylaMOG
Having a mental health disorder is tough. Having a mental health disorder in a world that is constantly telling people “It’s all in your head” is a lot harder. Statistics state that every year 42.5 million people in America alone suffer from a mental health illness. That is 42.5 million people living with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and countless other illnesses. Out of that 42.5 million, only about 63 percent receive treatment in the year that they reported an illness; others suffer alone. The stigma that surrounds mental illnesses is not a kind one. Our society feels like a place where we need to hide what sickness we have rather than tell someone because we do not want to be labeled as a “freak” or an “attention whore.” The majority of people who have a mental health disorder try to avoid telling their friends and only tell their family if absolutely necessary because of
the fact that we are taught that having a mental illness is considered “bad” and if we have one, something is “wrong” with us. Did you know that two out of three people who are diagnosed do not seek treatment? Or that in Texas alone, three out of four Texans have a friend or family member that have experienced mental illness? That is not what we need to be teaching. We need to be teaching and we need to be taught that just because someone has an illness you may not be able to see physically, does not in anyway discredit the reality of the situation. It is a serious problem that can wreak havoc on someone’s life and should, for all purposes, be taken seriously. For someone with anxiety, you might not know, even the slightest thing, like a two or three-minute presentation, can cause them to start to overthink. There are times when people with anxiety or depression will stay up all night, over thinking the smallest of things, and only fall asleep when exhaustion takes over. Sometimes their mind is going 1,000 miles per second and they
cannot seem to shut it down. People with any kind of mental health disorder will actively make sure they do not put themselves in situations where they could have an attack. What society needs to be taught is it is okay to talk about mental illnesses in the open. We do not need to be hiding behind a social stigma that says don’t talk about it because it might be awkward. There will be bad days for people who have a mental health disor-
ders, but those bad days can be made a little bit better if they are not hiding behind closed doors, but being loved by their friends and family. If you or someone you know has a mental health disorder, or even may suspect something but not completely sure, the University Counseling Center is open for students and staff. There are also countless organizations and websites that are designed to help anyone with mental health disorders.
MIKAYLA OELSCHLEGEL/Island Waves
News 3
03.02.2017
New Tennessee Bill causes controversy SARAH REEVES @SreevesR
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n Feb. 9, a proposed Tennessee Bill passed first consideration in the state Senate. In Nashville, Tenn., state representative Matthew Hill filed a bill that, according to WSMV-TV states if a driver hits a protester who is blocking traffic, then that driver would be immune to civic liability if the protestor is hurt, so long as it was not intentional. “Blocking off a highway is unlawful, but it is in no way violent,” said Connor Allen, sophomore political science major. According to CNN, citizens are concerned whether this bill does not uphold First Amendment rights, which ensures an American citizens’ civil right to peacefully protest. However, Dr. Carlos Huerta, professor of political science and co-author of the textbook “Practicing Texas Politics,” said determining whether a protest
was intended to be peaceful or not depends on one’s perspective. “Some peaceful protests have turned violent because of choices made by public officials to crackdown on peaceful protests,” Huerta said. “But I think most folks would agree that when the organizers of a protest seek to incite violence, then that is non-peaceful protesting.” According to WSMV-TV, Hill states the bill is not intended to hurt protestors but to protect the safety of everyone involved, including drivers and protesters. “I am for peaceful protesting,” Hill said during his statement for legislation, according to US News. “But people should not knowingly put themselves in harm’s way when you’ve got moms and dads trying to get their kids to school.” This bill prevents the person getting hit from asking questions about who was at fault, Al-
len said. “Hitting someone with their car trumps the unlawfulness of the protests crowding the streets,” Allen said. “The implication here, though, is that it is worse to block traffic than to hit protestors.” Other people report that this may be an act for publicity, rather than actually having the bill passed through legislation and made into a law. “It’s easy for legislators to propose legislation and it’s a way to draw attention,” Huerta said. “Our political preferences often bias how we interpret peaceful and non-peaceful protest. What I mean by that is that if there is a group that one supports, then one would typically be more supportive of the protest tactic of blocking traffic. However, if it’s a group you oppose, then one is more likely to oppose the blocking traffic tactic.” “If you don’t want anyone to be hurt, but you’re going to al-
low people to hit others with their cars, then it is politicizing protests,” Allen said. “I don’t think this would be a problem if the protestors were protesting something that Matthew Hill agreed with.” Despite the bill passed through first consideration in the state Senate, both Huerta and Allen doubt it will be implemented into a law. “Laws that attempt to restrict First Amendment rights are typically found to be unconstitutional,” Huerta said. “I would suspect that in the unlikely event that this bill becomes a law, and is used, it will be challenged, and I’d expect courts to rule against the law.” Allen said when law removes the ability to sue someone for damages, it removes the ability to defend oneself. “I am very confident that the Tennessee senate will shut it down, one way or the other,” Allen said.
Public voice opinions on new president search
MELISSA RODRIGUEZ @__melisssaaaa
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n Feb. 20, Parker Executive Search Firm conducted two open forums where students, staff, faculty and community members spoke out on their issues and concerns regarding the election of a new president for Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Parker Executive Search Firm, based in Atlanta, Ga. specializes in recruiting the best possible candidates for a variety of different work occupations. As a result, they have been chosen to lead the drafting process of candidates suitable to become the university’s next president. “It was very nicely done and the questions asked were [important],” said Renee Pearl, junior environmental science major. The forums were led by Laurie Wilder, president of Parker Executive Search Firm. She opened with an introduction of herself and a statement regarding the firm’s involvement in the search
of the university’s next president. After explaining the firm’s role and purpose, Wilder proceeded with a Q&A-style discussion where she asked the audience what they would like to see in the next president. “Open door policy so more people can come and know who the president is and have them be more accessible to students so we can voice our opinion, or at least feel a connection that it is an option that we can reach out and say something,” Pearl said. Pearl was one of the many who showed up to communicate what they felt was significant qualities to consider during the search process. Amongst both forums the audience expressed to Wilder, and the search committee members in attendance, concerns over the relationship between the university and community as well as expansion issues and several other reoccurring issues. “Our next president needs to know that we need a close relationship with them in order to trust them with our university,”
KATIE MEZA/Island Waves
A forum participant provides his thoughts on future president requirements.
said Robyn Ramon, sophomore sports management major. Many faculty and staff members also spoke out at the forums to make known what is hoped for from their perspective. They stressed the importance of furthering the university as a research institute and being more inclusive with the programs that tend to get overlooked. Wilder asked several other constructive questions such as, why should this opportunity be suggested to someone and what are some challenges the candidates should keep in mind when
applying to be the next president. The purpose for these forums was not only to gather opinions and concerns the public had, but also to help create a basis for the job description that has yet to be formed. Wilder said the search committee will be in charge of formulating the job description post forum. “We need a person with strong leadership, a person who will fight for funding the university as much as possible, and someone who will take pride in their job here on the Island,” Ramon said.
O N L I N E
Island Waves News .com
Robbery at knifepoint on campus
Two students reported that they were robbed at knifepoint on the trails behind the baseball field Feb. 1. According to the incident details from Code Blue, at approximately 11:50 p.m. a male student reported to the University Police Department that he and another student were robbed at knifepoint in the area of the hike and bike trail behind Chapman baseball field. Continue reading at islandwavesnews.com.
Tunnel of Freedom digs its way to history PASS Committee Program at TAMUCC brings the Tunnel of Freedom to educate students on a diverse and prominent history that shaped America. This is the third year PASS has hosted the educational and inspirational walkthrough, and it is set for Monday, Feb. 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Anchor Ballrooms A and B. It is an exhibit for people to learn about the history starting from the slave trade then going through the different historical issues that occurred for black people and African Americans. Read more at islandwavesnews. com.
ON THE COVER: Photo by VINCENT VERDUZCO
4 News
03.02.2017
Students head to Austin, advocate for TAMUCC
KACI ALVAREZ @earthtokace
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n Feb. 21, Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi students traveled to Austin to visit the state capitol and discuss higher education with Texas representatives. Forty-four students in total attended the all-day event to discuss possible budget cuts for the Island University the legislators are currently discussing. Once the students arrived in Austin, they went to the House of Representatives during their meeting and then were able to break off into small groups and talk to different legislators to have a more personal conversation. “[I have] more pride in the university knowing that all these people that want to advocate for the university especially when it’s looking at a gloomy future with the proposed budget,” said Garrett Ransom, graduate business management students and Student Government Association (SGA) president. “There’s people out there on campus that care to come together to try to do what we can.”
Ransom said SGA has hosted the Day at the Capitol for the past six years or so and it’s a good way for students to advocate important issues like cuts on the school’s behalf. The Day at the Capitol gave students a platform to voice their opinions and current concerns to those who can help fix any problems. “I think with all the political climate going on this year definitely helped people want to come out and actually start voice their opinions,” Ransom said. SGA students were not the only ones who attended the Day at the Capitol. Ransom said more than half of those who went to Austin were not a part of the organization. Athena Ford, senior finance major, attended the Day at the Capitol because she thought it would be a good experience to go and speak with representatives. “[I wanted to] ask [the representatives] their opinions on funding for higher education and to tell them why TAMUCC is a growing school and how the proposed budget cuts could affect
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our school,” Ford said. Ford said while the trip was for business and learning, there were still fun aspects like exploring the capitol and getting lost in the maze-like building. The current legislative session ends in May where the proposed budget cut will be decided and there won’t be another one until 2019, which is when the next day at the capitol will take place. “I think people should definitely look into going because it’s a great experience to go represent your school and be able to have a voice,” Ford said.
Until 2019, students can still get involved with the university by advocating for important issues by joining SGA. “A lot of people want to complain about stuff but nobody wants to actually put in the work,” Ransom said. “It’s easier to have your voice heard because [SGA] is the liaison between students and administration. If you’re willing to put in the work, we would love to have members come and help us make this island a better campus.” For more information on SGA or the Day at the Capitol, visit sga.tamucc. edu.
VINCENT VERDUZCO/Island Waves
Interim President and CEO Dr. Kelly Quintanilla, speaks to students about the importance of higher education funding.
News 5
03.02.2017
TAMUCC scholarship applications due GERI LEMMONS @GeriLemmons
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exas A&M University-Corpus Christi now has applications open for students scholarships. The deadline to apply for these scholarships is March 1. All students are encouraged to apply for any scholarship as long as they meet the requirements per scholarship for eligibility. “I first heard about the scholarships when I first applied [for the university],” said Chi Quach, junior marketing and finance major. “When I went to orientation they just talked about the scholarships and when they were due. They showed me that there were different ones one for incoming freshman
and others for undergraduates.” There are a total of eight scholarship categories with their own set of applications to choose from. They include ones for incoming freshman, incoming transfer students, current undergraduates, graduate students, major specific scholarships, Islander E.S.L. scholarships, Desi Foundation scholarship and study abroad scholarships. Each one of the categories and the scholarships has their own criteria in order to be eligible to application. For incoming freshmen, they have to be admitted to the university, be a fulltime student, they have to be degree seeking and be in good standing with the university. For incoming transfer students, they
must be admitted to the university, be a full-time student, be degree seeking, they must have or maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average and they must also be in good standing with the university. For undergraduates, the same criteria apply. “It is important for students to take advantage of the funds that the university is trying to offer the students,” Quach said. “If they need more money to help with playing for classes and they don’t have time to work, then these scholarships are the best for them.” For the major specific scholarships, they align with the different colleges of the university. Some have very specific criteria or are catered to a specific profession.
In terms of water consumption, Conkle concluded humans and the environment are combating over the need for water. The country’s growth in population is the overlaying concern Conkle relayed in his presentation. As the population grows, water consumption rises and officials will have to find ways to get water to those people. “For students who are interested in grad school,” Conkle said. “I suggest looking into law focusing on water rights because that’s where our future is heading.” Conkle’s presentation shifted to climate change due to global warming and how this will affect water availability. Due to evaporation with the rising temperatures, 20-30 percent of topsoil and surface water will decline, resulting in water shortages throughout the United States. For the second portion of his presentation, Conkle narrowed his subject to Texas and the problems the state has regarding its dependency on wastewater. “So the question is, how do you not harm the environment when you are polluting it more and more every year?” Conkle said. “One, you treat water to higher standards. Two, you minimize the water you put back into the environment by essentially finding the leak in the system.” The problems with these solutions, however, are that they are very expensive and easier said than done. Conkle said this is something we have to do as a state because according to the 2017 State Water Plan, the population of Texas is expected to increase from 2020 to 2070. With a growing population, the demand for water in 2070 will increase by 17 percent and will cost Texas
$73 billion annually. At the end of his presentation, Conkle talked about the water boils and bans Corpus Christi has experienced in the past two years. Conkle said a lot of these issues have to do with the city’s outdated infrastructures. “This all boils down to research and innovation, to improve water treatment technology,” Conkle said. He then ended his presentation with a link to The Coastal Health and Water Quality Lab (C-HaWQ), where he along with other graduate students are conducting research on the pollutants in coastal environments. For more information on Conkle’s recent studies, visit conklelab.tamucc.edu.
Others are broader for those wanting to apply. Britney Lyssy, sophomore education major, said having the scholarships is a great idea and she feels like it is an available opportunity students should not pass up. “I think it is really important,” Lyssy said. “Even though there are a lot of people here, not many people know about it so there will not be as much competition.” Lyssy said the scholarships are especially important for students that need financial help. “I think it is a good idea honestly because for me personally I am struggling with money, my parents are helping me pay,” Lyssy said.
Chemistry professor presents water research
SARAH REEVES @StreevesR
On Feb. 23, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi held its secon Outstanding Authors Speaker Series to recognize the published works of authors on campus. This installment took place on the second floor of the Mary and Jeff Bell Library from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and featured Dr. Jeremy Conkle, assistant professor of chemistry, and his studies of population growth and water consumption. Dr. Frank Pezold, dean of science and engineering, opened the presentation with a brief statement of Conkle’s educational background. “Jeremy has only been here for a couple of years,” Pezold said. “He started in 2014, and he’s already proven himself to be one of the best leaders on campus.” Pezold said Conkle has had 17 journal publications and is writing and receiving funding for his recent studies. “He is essentially a chemical oceanographer,” Pezold said. “He determines pollutants in aquatic systems, so that is something very interesting here in Corpus Christi.” Conkle’s overall title for his presentation was “Water, water everywhere, but is it safe to drink?” This title was fitting for his idea that he wanted to communicate to the audience of roughly 30 students and faculty. “My studies are focused on the contaminants going into our water and then going into the environment,” Conkle said. “The concern is that we don’t really know too much about them and how the environment will react.”
photo courtesty of SARAH REEVES
Dr. Jeremy Conkle speaks to an audience of about 30 attendees.
6 News
03.02.2017
International students expect replacement for ESLi JONATHAN FORNEY @jb4nay
he English as a Second Language institute (ESLi) no longer operates in association with Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi, following their contract expiration in December 2016. ESLi has been involved with the Island University for 10 years and stayed an additional semester after the contract had expired. The university has announced that Study Group will replace ESLi once the paperwork is completed. “Last spring, we realized that Study Group was going to be the group we go with for our next five-year contract period,” said Dr. Amy Aldridge Sanford, associate vice president for Academic Affairs. Organizations like ESLi and Study Group help students who need to meet certain English language requirements to become direct admits to the university. In addition, these organizations also work alongside direct admit international students. Study Group is currently taking indirect admit students but is not accepting international students who do not
“I think it helps globalize the institution,” Aldridge Sanford said. “Nationally, percentages for international students on campuses is about eight to 12 percent. If one out of 10 of our students were from outside the U.S., that would be awesome.” With the loss of ESLi, international student numbers have declined slightly both in terms of admissions and involvement in organizations. “ESLi was a major drawing pool for attracting international students on campus,” said Olumide Adeoye, president of International Student Organization (ISO). “Its removal, without immediate replacement, means less international student intake for the school and, as such, could stunt our growth as an organization.” In terms of percentage, Aldridge Sanford said, about six percent of university students are international and the loss of ESLi can be held accountable for this decline. Students, both international and domestic, have the opportunity to learn from each other. ISO exists to further these learning opportunities. Its members come from Vietnam, Nigeria, India,
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Saudi-Arabia, Yemen, Mexico, Korea and many more countries. “Our main goal is to foster friendship amongst all international students on campus towards improving our social lives,” Adeoye said. “We also want to create a bond and understanding with our American hosts. Showcasing the rich cultural heritage of our individual countries is also a top priority for us.”
JONATHAN FORNEY/Island Waves
Sign on door of Classroom East stating that the ESLi services are no longer offered.
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meet English language requirements at this time. The university is awaiting approval of their I-17 documentation, which will allow them to issue I-20 forms that are necessary for international students who wish to study English in the United States. The request was sent in the summer of 2016 and is expected to be approved in the near future. In the meantime, students who still needed English instruction were given assistance finding a new place to study. “We worked with ESLi through the summer to make sure those students that were still in the pipeline got placed in another ESLi institution if they still needed,” Aldridge Sanford said. ESLi has more than 30 institutions across the United States including other institutions in Texas. Those who still needed instruction but were unable to find a new institution could no longer attend the university. ESLi provided international students an opportunity to study at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. This international identity is part of the Island University culture.
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News 7
03.02.2017
Habitat for Humanity changes lives MELISSA RODRIGUEZ @__melisssaaaa
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he Corpus Christi affiliate of Habitat for Humanity has helped lower income families in the area become homeowners by building homes every year alongside the joint-help between volunteers and the future homeowners themselves. Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization with a Christian-based mission to help put families in need into safe homes all over the world. They are not a hand-out organization, but a handup, which means the families they help do pay for the homes built, just at a significantly lower price. “Seeking to put God’s love into action,” said Barbara Sweeney, executive director and CEO. “Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.” Since the start of the affiliate branch in Corpus Christi in 1989, Habitat for Humanity has built 50 homes in the area. They average about two homes a year, with a build time between 12-18
months for each one. “Because there is a shortage of lowincome housing in the Corpus Christi area, Habitat provides families in need of an affordable, decent and safe place to live with a means of doing that,” Sweeney said. The families chosen for a home are based on a criteria of need, ability to pay and their willingness to partner. Sweeney said these families often times work closely alongside the volunteers and professional laborers during the process of it all and are really appreciative of the work being done for them. “I think it is an incredible organization,” said Samantha Hernandez, freshman allied health major. “That truly makes differences in the community and allows not only for us to grow as a community but also individually.” What makes these homes more affordable for the families are two things: volunteered labor and no-interest mortgages. Homes are financed to the families with 20-30 years of no interest mortgages, which allows the homeowners to pay back the homes only for the devel-
opment costs during this time period making it much cheaper. “I feel it’s important for people to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity because not everyone is blessed enough to live in a well-sheltered home or have a roof over their head,” Hernandez said. Through volunteer work, the nonprofit organization is able to lower the costs for the actual construction of the homes which, in turn, lowers the amount families have to pay back. Habitat for Humanity—Corpus Christi, also has a ReStore as another funding
mechanism for their works. ReStore is a resale shop from the community’s donated items, whose proceeds all go back to the organization. Members at Habitat for Humanity are looking for someone who would like to volunteer in the area of fundraising and social media marketing for the organization. “We would love exposure and assistance,” Sweeney said. To sign up for any type of volunteer work, email volunteer@corpuschristihfh.org.
Volunteers help Habitat for Humanity build a home for a fmaily in need.
Valid through 12/31/17.
courtesy of GOOGLE.COM
8 News
03.02.2017
Flu epidemic strikes Island University ILLI-ANNA SKY MARTINEZ Contributing writer
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his semester Islanders are really feeling spring fever, but not the good kind. For the past couple of weeks, the flu has been spreading among the Island University. Zelda Chacon, associate director of the University Health Center, said in just the last three weeks, 83 cases of the flu have come into the health center. “The majority of the students who have been coming in with positive flu symptoms have not been immunized,” Chacon said. Chacon said there are two types of flu students can contract. Flu A consists of symptoms including high fever, body aches that restrict activity, as well as a cough and congestion. A person may also have abdominal aches, nausea, diarrhea and even headaches. In contrast, Chacon said Flu B has symptoms similar to this but are usually more bearable to handle. However, regardless of which type of flu you
have, Chacon said students should still be cautious. She said one student came in looking extremely ill and after getting diagnosed, the health clinic found he only had the Flu B virus. “I know that this has greatly affected our campus,” Chacon said. “But not only our campus. Flu A is currently in epidemic proportions in 40 out of our 50 states here.” Chacon said the university has been working closely with the Health Department, reporting every Monday how many cases of flu have been documented the previous week. The job of the Health Department is to find where the source of the flu is coming from. Chacon said they can do this by getting information from the patients that are coming into the clinic. Alex Puentes, fourth year nursing student, said she was not aware of the flu outbreak until last week when another nursing student told her. “I think the flu isn’t typically recognized as an epidemic since it happens every year,” Puentes said. “But with this season’s report of an all-time high,
it certainly grabs attention.” Puentes said there may be a variety of reasons why the flu has spread so quickly. She said the main reasons could be because people do not have their flu vaccinations and it may also be spreading due to improper hand washing. If students have the flu or are showing symptoms, Chacon said it is best to come to the health center so they can be diagnosed properly. If it turns out you have the flu, you may be eligible to receive a prescription for Tamiflu and a coupon if you do not have insurance. She said students do not need to worry about unexcused absences because professors will be notified of the illness. If you know someone who has already been diagnosed with the flu and worry they may have spread the virus to you, Chacon said students can come in to get screened and receive preventative medication. However, students are only eligible for this if the person has been verified of having the flu. Chacon said it is advised for students
who live on campus to only come to the health center if it is necessary and to call if it is only for something non urgent. At the beginning of the flu epidemic, Chacon said a few students in the waiting room came for non-flu related things and the following week came back to the health center because they contracted the flu. “We can assume one of two things,” Chacon said. “Either they were exposed in our waiting room because at that point we saw the peak of flu season, or they were just exposed to their friends and others.” Chacon said she strongly advises for students with the flu to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids and to have limited contact with people. She also suggests if students have not received a flu vaccination already, they should try to get it immediately. “Prevention is the best weapon against the flu,” Chacon said. “Even if you’ve already been diagnosed with the flu, we are still highly encouraging if you have not already been vaccinated to get vaccinated.
photo courtesty of ILLI-ANA SKY MARTINEZ
The Health Center, located inside of Sandpiper, has posted cold and flu warnings inside and out.
10 Entertainment
03.02.2017
Symposium focuses on immigration
JONATHAN FORNEY @jb4nay
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n Feb. 17, students and faculty gathered for the Hispanic Shakespeare Symposium to discuss the famous playwright’s contributions to ideas of immigration and identity. The public symposium is one part of a year-long project funded by Folger Shakespeare Library and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi assistant professor of English, Dr. Kathryn Vomero Santos, worked alongside professors at Texas A&M University-College Station to put the symposium together. “What country, by the nature of your error, should you harbor?” Santos said, a quote from Shakespeare. Santos referenced Sir Thomas More, a Shakespearean play, which went along well with the day’s theme. Students were given the opportunity to present their research focusing on connections between Shakespeare studies and Hispanic studies earlier in the day at a student research panel. After the panel, attendees participated in a lunchtime discussion inside the University Center. Santos gave an address ex-
plaining the purpose of the event. The discussion allowed attendees to offer their thoughts on the role Shakespeare and his work played into perceptions of race, identity and immigration. Many of whom had previously written on the subject. Santos argued that the narratives of individuals rather than broad depictions help humanize people so they are more relatable to others. “Shakespeare is trying to get us to question the crystallization of stereotypes,” Santos said. “We get so many from ‘text’.” After the lunchtime discussion, the symposium’s two keynote speakers, Dr. Eric Griffin of Millsaps College and Dr. Ruben Espinosa of the University of Texas at El Paso, had an opportunity to offer their takes on the subject. Griffin focused on the Anglo-Spanish relations at the time of Shakespeare’s writing and cited several historical texts in his analysis. Griffin focused on the “Stranger Crisis,” as he called it, to understand how the portrayal of immigrants in theater helped shape their public perceptions. “Stranger implied outsider, but foreigner did not,” Griffin said. “Shake-
JONATHAN FORNEY/Island Waves
This book is edited by Dr. Ruben Espinosa and features a chapter by Dr. Eric Griffin.
speare, himself, was a foreigner in Lon don.” In his presentation, Griffin, offered evidence as to how playwrights used fear to fill the seats of their theaters and how that had negative consequences. “The most public medium, the play-
house, could lead to violence toward aliens,” Griffin said. Espinosa, on the other hand, employed a more modern interpretation as to how Shakespeare and his work influenced the culture of Chicanx and Latinx (the x is gender neutral) societies. “Is there a Shakespeare for us?” Espinosa said. “I want us to consider Shakespeare in time; in our time. His limitations and strengths.” Espinosa’s explanation utilized the cultural implications of language and how that shaped the interpretations of Shakespeare’s work. He also discussed the role language has in cultural identity and an overall sense of belonging. “Language is twin-skinned to identity,” Espinosa said. The symposium elaborated on topics of inclusion and diversity, identity and assimilation, and immigration versus invasion. It provided a forum for scholars and students alike to learn something new and share their own interpretations of how an iconic figure in literature came to shape Hispanic identity today. “I’m very pleased with how the event went,” Santos said. “I am especially proud of my students. All of whom spoke totally exceeded my expectations.”
Student volunteer connection heads to Arkansas
AMERICA SEGURA
@americasegura7
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he Alternative Spring Break trip, hosted every year by Student Volunteer Connection (SVC), has an Arkansas destination for March 2017. This year, participants will visit to the Ouachita State Park in efforts to help the park rangers with the park’s deforestation. According to the SVC website, the event encourages students to engage in a more hands on matter outside of the typical communities that they may serve. “I think having that immersion factor and getting someone out of their comfort zone to see a completely new environment is important,” said Sydney Moreno, junior environmental science major. SVC provides an open door to students who are looking to be involved in the community through their service. This organization emphasizes the accessibility to connect students to the community. Moreno is one of this year’s coordinators for the trip. She has prior experi-
ence both coordinating the event and being a volunteer. “Each year has a theme; my freshman year it was homelessness and poverty and this year it’s an environmental conservation theme,” Moreno said. “We went to volunteer with two different organizations my freshman year. I think that’s what got me hooked on the trips. It’s a pretty cool way to spend your time, helping others.” The main goal for SVC is to enroot the qualities of cultivating student leadership and creating responsible, wellrounded individuals within the university. “I got to see how fortunate of a person I am in my life in comparison to these people, and it just made me feel more grateful for what I have,” said Francisco Gallegos, junior political science major. The Alternative Spring Break event is only one of the three programs the organization offers. The other two are The Signature Event and The Big Event. Deadline to sign up for the trip is March 2 at 5 p.m. There is an application process and this year’s trip cost
roughly $105. “The application is fairly short; it’s actually on OrgSync where you apply and it’s a couple of short answer responses. It’s relatively straight forward,” Gallegos said. “It’s based on the responses you give and the passion you have for the trip in hand. I would say it’s a shoe
in to go.” There is a $50 application fee which will go towards the price of the trip if the student selected to participate. If a student is not selected, the money will be returned. For more information of the Alternative Spring Break visit svc.tamucc.edu.
Sports 11
03.02.2017
Islander Baseball hosts three-day series AMERICA SEGURA @americasegura7
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n Feb. 17, the Islanders Baseball Team had their home season opener in a three-day game series against Bradley University, from Illinois. More than 500 fans watched the series take place at Chapman Field. The Islanders made out with one win from the series. Friday’s game ended in a 10-7 score, after a comeback from the Islanders during the eighth inning. Dalton Stark, junior psychology major and right fielder said, “It’s a thrill, it’s a rush, ready to get things going.” Beginning the inning, Sam Mohofski, junior infielder, took a hit from a pitch, which was followed two walks leaving bases loaded and no outs for Islanders. This prompted the needed points for the Islanders. “I mean we were down 6-1, found a way to come back and it just shows what kind of team we are,” said David “Itchy” Burts, freshman mechanical engineering major and infielder. “It was a big come-back win, I mean we were down 5-6 runs and then late into the game everyone stood in and fought
ZACH ALDRIDGE/Island Waves
Islander baseball player takes swing against opponents Bradley University.
throughout the whole game,” Stark said. Feb. 18, the Islanders took on Bradley
in a turn of events that led to a 5-9 loss for the Islanders. Bradley came back and
capitalized on 11 free passes and scored nine runs on eight hits. “Bradley is a good team, they’re really good offensively,” Burts said. “They can really swing the bat.” Feb. 19 was the final game of the threeday series. In a close game, the Islanders took a lost against Bradley with a final score of 6-7, giving Bradley victory of the series. “From Saturday and Sunday we learned that every game is going to be a fight. It’s not going to be easy,” said Burts. “You [have to go] out there until the game is over.” Overall, the Islanders hope to regain their focus and push toward victory in the season to come. “I would say our strongest points would be the leadership on the team,” Burts said. “We have a pretty experienced pitching staff and I think that’s going to help us in the long run.” The next home game for the Islanders will take place at Chapman Field against the UT Arlington Mavericks at 6:30 p.m. For the complete season schedule visit goislanders.com. For more recaps this season, keep reading Island Waves or follow us @IslandWavesToGo.
Recreational Sports hosts first ever Month of Love GERI LEMMONS @GeriLemmons
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ecreational Sports is hosting their first-ever Month of Love event which runs from Feb. 13 to March 10. Each week during the Month of Love has a theme, centered on loving yourself and others. “The first week is about caring for yourself, the second week is more about appreciation for each other, next week is our love your troops campaign and the last week will be focused on the food you eat,” said Marcie Garza, registered dietitian with Recreational Sports. The theme for the first week was Love Your Body. Students could make a post answering the statement, “I love my body because” for a chance to win a gift card to Massage Envy. They would have had to post it and then tag #islanderrec in order to be entered. For the second week the theme was called Love Your Islander, all about showing school spirit. Students would make a social media post displaying
their school spirit and tag #islanderrec for a chance to win an Islander spirit package. “We wanted to start a campaign starting in February that really encouraged the campus community to show love and respect for themselves,” Garza
said. Another week shows support for active and non-active military members, Love Your Troops. Recreational Sports and the Student Veteran Organization will have a supply drive for the troops until March 3.
According to the Rec Sports website, it is an opportunity for students to show their love, appreciation and gratitude by donating items to be sent overseas. The items can be dropped off at the DWC front desk and at the Student Veteran Lounge in the UC. “We have a lot of student veterans and active military that are on staff here at Rec Sports,” Garza said. “There is a lot that we can do to give back to them, so [we] always look for opportunities to plug back in.” The final theme Love Food, Love You is March 6 and ends March 10. During this week, students are encouraged to take a picture of their healthiest food plate and tag the picture with the #isladerrec. The winner of this challenge will win a gift card to Sprouts. “[Month off Love] ties two months together, it ties February, which is national eating disorder month and then national nutrition month is in March,” said Franklin Harrison, director of Recreational Sports. “So we are going to tie two months together into one and really focus on the nutritional aspect.”
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