Volume 26 Issue 14

Say goodbye to Markwood

ASSASSINS REVIEW

Provost transfers to become president of another university

by AMBER QUAID managing editor

P

rovost no longer, Chris Markwood is leaving Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi to become President of Columbus State University in Georgia on June 1. Announced Apr. 20, Kelly Quintanilla will be the new interim provost, helping the transition between Markwood and the new provost to be seamless.

“I am very thrilled that Dean Quintanilla was selected to be the interim provost,” Markwood said. “She will work well to make the transition as smooth as possible.”

Quintanilla has accepted the position to be the interim provost and will continue to do so until a new provost is hired and made official. Major responsibilities of the Office of the Provost include: providing a challenging educational experience in a multicultural community for undergraduate and graduate students, supporting the academic colleges and the work they do, improving the university’s performance in building a diverse and successful faculty of scholars, supporting research and scholarly activity across the university, oversight and coordination of international activities and supporting collaborative educational efforts involving industry, the community and educational partners.

“It is an honor to have this opportunity and privilege to serve the university,” Quintanilla said.

Markwood has been with the university since March of 2011, where he served as provost and vice president of academic affairs. Four years later, after his child was grown to school age, he had an invitation to apply as president for Columbus State University this past December. This was the only job he applied for because it had all the criteria he was looking for in a position though he was not really

page 6

CSA raises funds for the disabled

by STERLEN KEMP news reporter

T

photo courtesy of TAMUCC.EDU

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Provost Chris Markwood.

looking.

“When we [himself and his wife] began to look at a presidency we had been reminded of some things we prioritized as being very important,” Markwood said. “The type of community, the activities of the campus, the mission of the campus and everything really began to line up for us.”

Throughout the interview process with Columbus state Markwood

said he felt at ease and as though he “was talking to friends.” This helped finalize the decision to move to a new school, even though it was not planned and not quite the timing he wanted.

“We’re very excited but we’re sad to leave,” Markwood said. “We love Corpus.” see PROVOST on page 3

UC grand re-opening date is set

he Colombian Student Association at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is making a huge impact in the world and representing the Island University proudly.

The Colombian Student Association or PorColombia - Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi hosted their fifth annual Help For Fun event.

The event was created to help raise money to support a foundation that specializes in helping children and adults with a variety of genetic diseases in their home country.

“This fundraising event, Help for Fun, is our fifth event,” said Natalia Chaves, president of the Colombian Student Association. “We are helping out a foundation of children with disabilities in Colombia.”

PorColombia raised funds by selling a variety of Colombian inspired products. Some of the items sold by the members of the organizations were authentic Colombian coffee, hand-made bracelets, authentic Colombian candy and beautifully crafted bags inspired by the Colombian culture.

Their sponsor, the Port of Corpus Christi, donated $500 to support their causes. see CSA FUNDRAISER on page 4

Ongoing construction on the University Center comes to an end

by STERLEN KEMP news reporter

T

exas A&M University–Corpus Christi’s University Center will soon be back in business.

The Department of Student Engagement and Success will be hosting the grand re-opening of the University Center on Friday, May 1 at 10 a.m., outside of the Anchor Ballroom entrance turnaround driveway.

During the ceremony, students will be given the opportunity to tour the new building along with give-

aways and free food that will be given to students during the tours. The Student Government Association’s office in suite 218 also will be giving away student commemorative T-shirts while supplies last.

The University Center has been inoperable for a while now due to the obvious construction in and around the building. Expansion and renovation was needed to facilitate the increase in student population at the Island University.

“The University Center was expanded and renovated due to the

growth of our campus enrollment,” said Dr. Don Albrecht, vice president for student engagement and success at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. “The original UC was built to accommodate an enrollment of 8,000 students; we exceeded 11,000 this past fall.”

The University Center will be opening in phases with the majority of the facilities and departments in operation on the grand re-opening date, May 1.

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

see UC OPEN on page 3

VOLUME 26, ISSUE 14

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opinion

ISLAND WAVES

a student publication of

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

island waves staff CONNER TICHOTA editor-in-chief

JAMIE FINK

web editor-in-chief

AMBER QUAID

managing editor

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JUSTIN VU NGUYEN

advertising assistant

LUIS GOMEZ

advertising assistant

THI NGUYEN

layout assistant

KARA HERRERA layout assistant

STERLEN KEMP news reporter

GERI LEMMONS

features reporter

TREY SEAL

entertainment reporter

JEREMY PAPE

sports reporter

ELI T. BERKE

photographer

MARK MARTINEZ

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04.30.2015

Oklahoma bombing lives not forgotten

by JAMIE FINK

Web Editor-in-Chief

L

et me first begin by saying April 19 is always an unmistakable day in the history for everyone in Oklahoma, myself included.

The amount of pain that this day brings for so many people is unimaginable. I cannot even recall what happened on this day because I was only eight months old.

However, this day is still an important day in my history.

I cannot feel the same pain as someone else, but I can understand the emotion and the significance behind being able to celebrate during a time when Oklahoma was at one of its darkest moments. At first, the bombing symbolized weakness. It symbolized fear and it left many wondering why, how, what can be done. Now 20 years later, I finally understand what this tragedy means to Oklahoma. It symbolizes strength, courage, and forgiveness.

Oklahoma sees its fair share of tragedies, but mainly in the natural disaster type of way. A domestic act of terrorism, however, was something very strange to many Oklahomans. I have grown to the point to where I am still amazed by how strong Oklahomans, or Okies are.

Growing up in a small rural Oklahoma town with a public school nearby, each morning would begin the same way.

Catching the bus, eating breakfast and beginning class with the Pledge of Allegiance, the Preamble to the Constitution, and finally a moment of silence. Each year, April 19 comes around only to add an extra minute to the moment of silence.

I remember being in elementary school and snooping through the office closet at home one day. I ran across a book I had never seen before, a book that was put away and not out with the rest of the others. ‘In their name’ was the title of the book. The black glossy cover had a picture of a young boy maybe 4 or 5 years old on the front holding an American flag and a candle light for a vigil.

I remember taking the book into the living room and lying on the floor, flipping through the pages looking at all the pictures, because I did not care about the words.

The pictures filling the pages said more than enough. After my mother answered my numerous questions regarding the book, I was not really affected because of my age. However, through junior high, the understanding of the events continued to trickle in and become stronger.

I finally read the book. I could not understand how someone could just take 168 innocent lives in the blink of an eye.

I believe what bothered me the most was not the fact that so many lives were taken; it was the fact that the 168 people included children.

The most iconic photo to the bombing was the one of an Oklahoma City fire captain, Chris Fields, carrying the lifeless body of a 1-year-old little girl, Baylee Almon. Baylee would have turned 21 one day before the anniversary of the bombing.

Murrah Building right after the Oklahoma City Bombing on April 19, 1995.

Baylee would most likely be attending college where she would be either a junior or senior. However, due to the senseless and spineless act of two men, Baylee is unable to experience any of these things. Baylee’s parents will never get the chance to see her walk down the aisle.

The memories of the events that took place on April 19,1995 are all but distant.

For those that are from Oklahoma however, the memories are still all too real.

The place where the Murrah Building once stood is now home to one of the most serene memorials in all of the U.S. The Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial is an outdoor memorial in downtown Oklahoma City. It is a place meant for quiet reflection, to honor the victims, survivors and rescuers and all whose lives were forever changed that fateful day in mid-April. The memorial is home to a small, rectangular pool surrounded by two lush grass lawns, which are home to 168 chairs representing those whose lives were taken that day.

Twenty years later, the Oklahoma City bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah building in downtown Oklahoma City, is still the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in United States history. As for now, Americans have learned there is no place for domestic terrorism and no place in this country for those who commit these senseless acts.

People have learned from these tragic

Any student or University employee may submit material for publication consideration. To become a contributor, e-mail or call the Island Waves editor.

The place where the Murrah Building once stood is now home to the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial.

photos courtsey of commons.wikimedia.com

days, and realize acknowledging these monsters, which feel the need to try and demonstrate these acts of power by taking others lives, are not worthy to be shown on public television. People have learned that feeding the twisted egos of these people only demonstrates to others who are feeling the same, that the crazier the act of violence the more air time they will receive and it will no longer happen. For this everyone should applaud, because Americans should be proud of a place that does not associate itself with citizens that act this way because it is not ok.

If anyone is ever in Oklahoma and near Oklahoma City, take the time to visit the memorial and the museum. The outdoor memorial is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, free of charge. The museum is $12 for students with a valid ID and $15 for adults, unless 62 or older or a member of the United States military. This is place to reflect, feel, listen, and one can experience a piece of something that has forever changed the United States.

The only thing one can do is to continue to learn and grow. People must pick themselves up, brush off the dust and come back stronger and smarter than before. Everyone must learn from his or her defeats to prevent defeat again. Like the saying goes, “fall down seven times, get up eight.”

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news

04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

CSA FUNDRAISER continued from page 1

photos by STERLEN KEMP

The 5th Annual Help For Fun event raised more than $1500 for the Fundación PILEA organization.

Various items like authentic Colombian coffee, bracelets and bags were sold to raise money for the disabled in Colombia.

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi singer Daniel Jaramillo and PorColombia President, Natalia Chaves, sing a duo Colombian song.

PROVOST MARKWOOD continued from page 1 The announcement of Markwood’s departure came with news that Quintanilla would be the interim (acting) provost. Quintanilla is the dean of the College of Liberal Arts.

According to SAGE, “She earned her Ph.D. in Communication from the Pennsylvania State University in 1994, joining the Island University faculty that same year. She was a professor of communication for 16 years, teaching courses in business & professional communication, teamwork & leadership, organizational communication, public relations, and public speaking. Additionally, she served as Department Chair and Program Coordinator in Communication from 2000-2009.

Over the years, Quintanilla has received awards for her teaching, service, advising and scholarship.”

This is Quintanilla’s 21st year at the university.

“If I can help serve during this time of transition,” Quintanilla said, “I’m really excited to be able to do so.”

Though there is no definite time on

when the position will be taken over officially, Quintanilla has stepped in with Markwood’s help to fill that position until such time. Their main focus is the mission of the university and to make the transition so no students are affected.

“The mission of the university has been laid out in Momentum 2015 and my job is to support that,” Quintanilla said.

Momentum 2015 is, according to the tamucc.edu website, a 10 year vision, charting the next course for the University, one that will establish Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi as the Flagship University for South Texas. Its compass is the vision that is Momentum 2015, a commitment to maintaining excellence in learning, discovery and engagement. This is what the provost, official or interim will hold the university’s path to and guide the students to their success with.

“We have such an incredible foundation in teaching,” Quantanilla said, “We need not lose sight of that.”

During the event, the Colombian Student Association was able to raise more $1,500 for the sponsored foundation. Fundación PILEA, the organization being supported, is based in Bogotá, Colombia. They are a non-profit organization that focuses on support for the mentally disabled population in the area, including adults and children with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and many other disabilities.

“I’m from Colombia and this organization is helping children with disabilities who don’t have the resources to pay for the problems they are dealing with,” said Farid Ganem, a member of the Colombian Student Association and freshman in mechanical engineering at the Island University. “We are doing things to help the people of our country.”

The event was also filled with live music and performances from A&M-Corpus Christi’s own Daniel Jaramillo, who was also a contestant at Corpus Christi Idol competition. He sung along side the PorColombia – Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi organization’s president, Natalia Chaves.

Chaves expressed the need for students at Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi to get involved in events such as this one that are fundamental in helping communities of people who are less fortunate and often do not have the resources that they need.

“We are really fortunate to have our health and to be college students, so why not help create an awareness within the community about different events, not just for Colombia but for other people in the United States,” Chaves said. “As Colombian we are trying to help our country in someway.”

The Colombian Student Association, recently renamed to PorColombia at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi has become increasingly active over the past few years. They joined the PorColombia national organization group to create a better connection and network with other Colombian students across the country.

The PorColombia at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi seeks to continue to offer a place for students at the Island University to learn about the cultural significance of the Colombian community in South Texas.

Their main goal is to enrich the South Texas Community, provide the Corpus Christi community with a positive image of Colombia, assist Colombians who are in need, and offer support to Colombian students in their quest for success.

If anyone is interested in the PorColombia –Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi organization or would like to know about future engagements or events, visit them on their Facebook page.

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campus

04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Cultural connection brings university together

by GERI LEMMONS feature reporter

I

nter Cultural Alliance (ICA) will celebrate and acknowledge the Asian culture around campus.

They will host an event called Asian Pacific Heritage Celebration on Monday, May 4 at the Hector P. Garcia plaza at 11a.m.

The Asian Pacific Heritage Celebration is celebrated the entire month of May. The purpose is to bring some new ways to learn about Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. This month will be kind of like the Hispanic Heritage celebration month and the African American month that was held in February. It is supposed to hold the same informative value as the events held in those month.

Aidreauna Nash a student who works at ICA said before they just provided different Asian food and had different Asian board games like chess Chinese checkers, etc.

The organization is planning to have different student organizations such as the student Vietnamese group and the Indian organization have tables promoting their cultures. They will also have a game or two that people can play, and possibly even do a performance.

“In May it’s a time to celebrate and acknowledge the different Asian cultures including people who are from India because many times people get the misconception that only people who look Chinese are Asian,” Nash said.

The Asian pacific is a very large group of people and this event will be celebrating all of these groups. These groups are very diverse and all have

many exciting and different ways that they choose to live. Being a very large group of many people allows people to learn about how truly big the Asian Pacific Heritage is. These include Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and the Solomon Island), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated States of Micronesia), and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Island, Samoa, American, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island).

Mercedes Landry, another student who works at ICA, said her favorite part about this event is the performances that are performed during the celebration.

“Asian Pacific Heritage Celebration is an event where the campus can celebrate Asian Pacific culture and the start of Asian Pacific month,” Landry said.

There will be many things to do at this event that will open up people’s eyes as to what another culture lives are like and what they like to do for fun.

This event is both educational and entertaining at the same time. It will be open for all to come, have food, play games and participate in different opportunities to get to know some of the cultures of fellow islanders.

It is like a culture fest that everyone can participate in. There will be different groups there to help make the celebration more fun and authentic. Different groups will have different games and food and will educate people about the world outside the United States and how other cultures like to celebrate. Everyone is welcome to come so share in what is sure to be fun and educational.

Games used to help child development

by GERI LEMMONS feature reporter

T

exas A&M University – Corpus Christi and Del Mar students did not let a little rain stop them from their interactive event with parents and students called “I like to Move it, move it.”

The event was held on April 18 from 10:00 to 1:00 p.m. by the students, the Success by Six Coalition, United Way of the Coastal Bend, Texas A&M Corpus Christi extinction AgriLife and Delmar. The goal of this was to teach parents and their children about health and different games they can do together to teach children hand eye coordination.

The event was held in the Antonio E. Garcia Arts and Education Center.

The children and parents even had the opportunity to talk to different supporters inside the center such as a dentist office and many others.

They also got to play different types of games all around the grass and parking lot while learning something at the same time. The childern who were there got to make their own healthy Chex mix as well as get other free information and opportunities.

Sherri Peterson, the early childhood initiative project director for the United way of the Coastal Bend, said this event is held as part of an initiative of the success by Six Coalition and the main purpose of this is for parents to get ideas on how they can do simple easy things for motor development in their own children.

“We also want to give them some health information about their child’s own growth and development and as well as things related

to dental, to health and nutrition,” Patterson said. “It’s a health event but the primary focus is to ensure that parents get information on how to encourage motor development in young children, so all the activities out here that are happening today they were made with a purpose.”

The goal was to teach and show parents that these are games they can do with their children at home on any given day. There were games like a shuffle board race, doing the hokey pokey, clown toss, A-Mazeing-Race, and the angry birds build and smash. All games geared toward the development of children but in a fun way. There was even an opportunity to take pictures with Sponge Bob at this educational activity function. Children and parents even got to take home some free toothbrushes, bubbles, chalk, balloons and many other cool objects as well as the Chex Mix. The Chex mix consisted of cheerios, pretzels, goldfish, and dried fruit which is supposed to be an easy, cheap, and fun thing to make with someone’s child and they showed the parents exactly how to do so.

They showed them the right measurements and how easy and fun this activity can actually be.

“I like it because they have a lot of entertainment for the kids I like that they have a lot of information the help for the kids and it is really nice,” Javier Leglesia, a supporter of one of the people who were participating at the event, said. “I heard about it because my daughter is a teacher for Texas A&M University and she told me about this, so we decided to come and support it.”

photo by GERI LEMMONS

Students make Asian inspired lanterns for the Asian Pacific Heritage Celebration on May 4 at the Hector P. Garcia Plaza at 11 a.m.

For more information about The Asian Pacific Heritage Celebration contact ICA online at ica.tamucc.edu or by phone at 825-2539

Career Corner Career services promotes professional development contributed by Jeremy B. Gonzalez Career Services

F

requently, one of the most challenging aspects of going to college is professionally developing oneself to be competitive in the job market.

To do this, it is important to first understand what professional development means. Professional development is the process in which a person acquires new knowledge and skills that relate to one’s profession, job responsibilities, or work environment. I know it sounds overwhelming. Keep in mind, developing professionally is a continuous process which never ceases. It is not done all at once.

Students can take the initial steps by discovering what kind of profession they want to develop in. Many individuals start college with undeclared majors. Career Services can assist students with choosing a major as well as with other professional development needs. The Career Services office has experienced counselors for each college. They not only help students navigate the process of choosing a major, but also help students develop professionally

according to the students’ aspirations. The career counselors work hand-in-hand with companies and organizations to understand their needs and the expectations of potential candidates. This translates into the career counselors tailoring and building on the experiences of Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi students.

Internships, volunteer work, and research projects are some common ways to develop professionally, many of which can be found on the Hire An Islander job data base at career-services. tamucc.edu.

In addition to the job data base, networking events can also be viewed on the Career Services website. The Career Services office also holds frequent workshops on structuring a resume and curriculum vitae, professional networking, and a variety of other opportunities to learn how to market oneself. Students are encouraged to visit the Career Services office which has relocated back to the University Center on the third floor in room 304 for further information. Let Career Services help to achieve students career goals.

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04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

EQUAL RELATIONSHIPS ARE VIOLENCE FREE

Š Consent is Sexy Campaign / AdlibStudio 2014

Find us on Facebook TheConsentCampaign

respect forall?

We should all respect racial, cultural and religious differences.

Do we also respect sexual diversity? The right to respect for students of all sexual orientations is a universal human right, and will be firmly upheld on this campus. Expressing

views or taking action that undermines the rights of any student is not acceptable. Be aware of prejudice. Speak out against it. Respect yourself. Respect the rights of others.

Office of Judicial Affairs: judicialaffairs.tamucc.edu Title IX Coordinator: edcs.tamucc.edu University Police Department: upd.tamucc.edu University Counseling Center: counseling.tamucc.edu

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campus

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ISLAND WAVES

UC OPEN continued from page 1

The bookstore, Well Fargo Bank, post office and the SandDollar office have already moved into the newly remodeled building.

“The building will be functional May 1 for the grand opening,” said Julie Shuttleworth, communications specialist for the department of Student Engagement and Success. “There will be some pieces of the building that extend past that throughout the summer until everything is ready to go for the Fall. Dining services will not be ready until later in the summer.”

Students of the Island University have been waiting with anticipation to see what this new building has to offer.

The University Center is sure to become the place for Islanders to connect and socialize.

“The most significant addition to the UC is the new Anchor Ballroom, it is twice the size of the Lone Star ballrooms,” Albrecht said. “In addition, we doubled the size of the kitchen, added two new food concepts, Pizza Hut and Panda Express to the food court, we added the Student Involvement Center and completely renovated the Barnes and Noble Bookstore.”

Along with these new additions and renovations, the University Center has expanded and created new student lounge areas and meeting rooms, creating a comfortable and inviting space for students to gather.

The new University Center was created with the students of the Island University in mind. There are plenty of space and facilities that cater to the every day needs of the students.

Places like the breakers game room, which will be in the University Center near the post office, offer student a place to unwind and relax. The Cove or the dining area, will offer a variety of meals to choose from without having to leave campus. This building tries its best to emphasis “student connection.”

“Once completed, the UC will house staff, programs, services and facilities that support the entire campus,” said Albrecht, whose new office will be moved from Corpus Christi Hall to the University Center. “Students will attend organization meetings, meet friends for lunch, make copies and attend Career Fairs there. They will acquire experiences and skills that complements their academic work and makes them more prepared for life and work after college.”

Make sure to join the Islander family on May 1 at 10 a.m. to celebrate the opening of the UC with live entertainment, food and fun. This is everyone’s University Center, the place that connects the university. #CUattheUC #ConnetingTAMUCC

photos by Amber Quaid

The main floor of the UC holds the new equipment that will be unveiled during the May 1 grand opening.

TOP LEFT: Boxes of equipment for the outside student patio.

TOP RIGHT: Almost complete, the new indoor eating area.

LEFT: The new information desk opens up the main floor of the UC.

TOP LEFT: A new entrance that will allow 24-hour access.

RIGHT: A lounge/meeting area for campus clubs and groups.

LEFT: 50 inch televisions will be added throughout the UC for viewing.

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entertainment

04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

‘Assassins’ blows away audience

photos by ELI BERKLEY

The whole cast gathers on stage for microphone check before the main performance.

Schuyler Ballew, who will be portraying Lee Harvey Oswald, takes a moment to relax before an intense run through of the show.

by CONNER TICHOTA editor in chief

T

he Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Theatre Department’s performance of Stephan Sondheim’s “Assassins” was dark, electric, twisted and even a bit humorous: everything a Sondheim piece should be.

“Assassins” is a musical about the idolized American dream told from the prospective of eight infamous American assassins who felt they never really achieved it. Each musical number follows a different assassin, starting with John Wilkes Booth and ending with Lee Harvey Oswald, as they explain their motives behind their actions and the audience gets to glimpse the other side of the stories that history textbooks now tell.

Be assured, this is not an easy play to follow or produce. It requires a decent amount of knowledge about American history for the audience to understand various aspects of the plot and for the cast to be able to portray organic, accurate characters. Furthermore, the plot does not follow a traditional climactic structure. Rather it has a series of smaller plots strung together with the running themes of belonging, loneliness and despair.

Sondheim is dark. This play is dark. Perhaps even a little darker than Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd,” for those who are unfamiliar, a musical about love, revenge and cannibalism.

How? It is simple.

“Assassins” is real.

The musical is based on real historical events that shaped America. Yet, it views these shadowy figures not as the monsters society perceives them to be, but as people: real people who are lonely, who are lovesick and who feel useless, worthless and desperate. What makes it so dark is that it makes the audience feel like anyone could become one of these people.

With numerous shootings over the past decade and the recent push in the Texas Senate for open carry laws, the themes hit the audience at home. This musical makes the audience think about real issues that affect society today. That is a powerful art form.

And it was made only more powerful by the cast and crew.

The lead cast did a phenomenal job. Aaron Mateo Arroyo as John Wilkes Booth commanded attention from the audience bringing to life a dynamic portrayal of his character.

Jon Montgomery as Samuel Byck managed to create a terrifying blend of humor and insanity. Schuyler Ballew also did a good job portraying Lee Harvey Oswald as a man torn between doing right and wrong.

The musical numbers were well choreographed and well-blocked.

The cast’s singing was well executed and the live orchestra was a nice touch. The set was well crafted and space used well by the entire cast.

Overall, “Assassins” was another successful production by the Island University Theatre Department.

Dylan walker proudly poses in his costume and mustache.

Aaron Arroyo strikes a pose as the assassin, John Wilkes booth.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ACHIEVE PARTNER

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

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ISLAND WAVES

Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi

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LIVEMOMENTUMVILLAGE.COM Amenities & utilities included subject to change.

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entertainment

04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Places in Between, Double Exposure

by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

Art is such a fascinating thing, no matter the medium or the level of experience every piece is a product of the mind. No matter the content of the piece, there is a perspective in every painting, sculpture and photograph ever made. Upon entering the Weil Gallery at the Performing Arts Center, visitors will be greeted by the unique works of Stella Ann Wheeler in her premier showcase, titled “The Places in Between.” Each of Wheeler’s works in this exhibit utilizes a photography method known as the “double exposure.” The method began in the days of 35MM and instant film, where it was accomplished by taking a picture and not advancing the film roll to the next empty picture cell but instead taking another picture on top of the previous one. If done correctly, this lets the pictures layer on top of one another and blend into one image where both previous images are seen but with the second shot often appearing ghostly against the bold layer of the original image.

“It all started when I was around 9 or 10 years old” Wheeler said.

As a child, Wheeler would make collages out of images that she would get from shooting Polaroids, using disposable cameras, and cutting pictures out of magazines in addition to using old family photos. She would compose collages that would tell a story, a precursor to the works that she creates today.

“The concept is quite similar, it’s mainly my equipment and level of skill that has advanced,” said Wheeler. “Eyes and hands are what grab my attention the most when I find subjects for my art pieces. I love dark tones and contrast, that’s why you see a lot of black in all of my work” Wheeler said. Wheeler went on to describe that she wants the imagery to stick out to the viewer, so she uses very bold subject matters.

Each one of Wheeler’s pieces appears tells a story through a combination of images, some of them nightmarish and some of them dream-like.

In her piece, “Recurring Nightmares,” Wheeler uses very soft blacks and whites in addition to the face of a young girl to the left of the frame that is out of focus. The image utilizes a lone eye and half of a content face partially covered with raven black hair that appears to stare directly towards the viewer and can give one an unnerving feeling. It exemplifies Wheeler’s ability to tap into the themes of gothic art, which explore the darkest parts of ones life.

“Each one of these tells an internal narrative in my mind, they speak a lot about my life experiences such as los-

photos by TREY SEAL

“Still” by Stella Ann Wheeler.

ing people, this body of work is about not being able to sleep for a long period of time; being half-asleep/halfawake and not knowing what is real, what is fantasy,” Wheeler said.

“I think the exhibit is so unique and multi-dimensional. The way they transpose, I feel that just about everybody sees something familiar in each one of these photographs,” said Ivan Cavada, a local musician who was attending the gallery. “This work is a product of the left brain [logic] while still being able to speak to your right brain [emotion]. It’s a beautiful blend of light and dark imagery that tells the human story.”

The advice that Wheeler gives to young aspiring artists: “keep working, have fun but make sure to get your work done. It was a long journey for me to get here (her first solo exhibit) and it is all because of persistence.”

“The Places in Between” will be on exhibit in the Weil Art Gallery in the Performing Arts Center until May 8.

The Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“The Places in Between” by Stella Ann Wheeler.

10

sports

04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Carter, a pitch above the rest

by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

D

espite picking up the game of softball a few years later than most of her peers, Liz Carter, sophomore starting pitcher for the Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi Islanders, has a love for the game which runs deep.

“I started playing when I was about 8 years old,” Carter said. “I skipped the whole tee-ball phase.”

Carter’s twin brother Jackson played a part in deciding which sport she would play.

“I kind of followed Jackson and played softball, and ever since then, I’ve been playing,” Carter said.

Another family member helped teach Carter how to play softball.

“My dad played a little baseball in college,” Carter said. “My family is very athletic, so it was just kind of thrown on me, and [my dad] took it in his hands to show my brother and me the way.”

The encouragement from her family helped Carter get to where she is today. Yet, she is putting in the work it takes to improve from last year’s freshman campaign to now.

“I would say [I’ve improved] mentally,” Carter said. “As a freshman, I threw a lot, and it was a big change going from high school to college, and the batters that I’m facing.”

The chance Carter received to gain plenty of experience as a freshman also helped her elevate her level of play. She said toward the end of her freshman year, she began to realize what it took mentally to face tough hitters.

“This year, I knew exactly where I wanted to be mentally, and I knew that I had the capability to do well, and to compete against these bigger hitters and bigger schools,” Carter said. “I still have a long way to go, but right now, I’m where I want to be mentally.”

Even with all of the improvements Carter has made since coming to the Island University, she has not become complacent.

“I always want to do better for my teammates,” Carter said. “I’m never satisfied with my accuracy, or the amount of runs I allow. I just want to be better all-around, and keep improving.”

Carter said she is excited for the two years she has left with the team. Her positive attitude toward improving her game has gotten her some high praise from her coach.

“Liz has been a solid starter for us this season, and gets better and better every time out,” head coach Stephanie Hughes said.

Hughes also said Carter’s confidence level has played a huge role in her development.

“She has gained confidence in each start, and will continue to grow as a pitcher and a leader on the field for us,” Hughes said.

Carter brings more than just athletic ability to her team.

“I would say I make people laugh,” Carter said. “I’m kind of a quiet person, but I have my moments where I think I kind of surprise people, and they get to see who I am [outside of softball].”

Carter has high hopes for the remainder of the season.

“Hopefully, we will finish the season strong, and sweep our next two series, to get that momentum going through conference play” Carter said.

Familiarity with the Islanders’ opponents in the Southland conference could lead to success against those squads.

“We’ve played most of the teams that are probably going to make conference, and we know we can beat them,” Carter said. “It’s about doing well, and gaining confidence.

If we believe we can do it, we can beat any team in the tournament.”

Photo courtesy of ISLANDER ATHLETICS

Liz Carter delivers a strike during a recent game. The sophomore pitcher currently has a record of 10-15, with an ERA of 3.61.

Aubrie Pankratz sets a kill during the Intermural Co-Ed volleyball provided

by Rec Sports. The volleyball season has wound to a close as teams prepare for playoffs this week.

11

sports

04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Born to run: Sprinter finishes season strong

photo courtesy of KYLE MAZABOB

Junior Ebony Collins broke the school record in the 200 meters during the Baylor Invitational on Sat., April 18. She ran a time of 23.93 seconds.

by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

B

y all accounts, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders’ junior sprint runner Ebony Collins has had an excellent season.

During the Baylor Invitational Meet, Collins broke the school record in the 200 meters.

“My coach had been telling me that I was strong enough and had the endurance to break24 [seconds],” Collins said. “I just had to have faith in myself, and run all the way through the line. That’s probably the highlight of my three years of running Division I college track.”

Setting a new school record was an exhilarating event for Collins.

“When I crossed the finish line, I was tired, but I looked up at the clock, and I saw 23.83. I knew I had gotten first in my heat, and I was really shocked. Then, they put on the board 23.93, and I felt really happy I had finally broken 24.”

Collins took up the sport at a young age. Despite an initial lack of commitment to the sport, she is now breaking records.

“I started running track when I was roughly 6 or 7 years old,” Collins said.

“I started running with the AAU team.

[At that time], I think I just did it to put myself in a sport. Track wasn’t really my passion then, I didn’t even know how to run in a straight line.”

Being able to keep focused as she goes from one event to the next is an asset Collins is proud of.

“I have a quick turnover phase,” Collins said. “In the 200, your blocks have to be good, and you have to have a good start, and I feel like the part that helped me was that I had the focus of breaking 24.”

Collins has set her sights on some improvements she would like to

make in her senior campaign.

“I hope to keep improving my time,” Collins said. “I really would like to go to the tryouts for Team USA for the 2016 Rio Olympics. I just hope to keep training and improving my time to get it to what it needs to be so I can try out.”

As an experienced runner, Collins understands the value of staying in elite physical condition.

“I train and lift weights,” Collins said. “I’m on a healthy diet. I eat lean shakes, and I carb up.”

Last season, Collins advanced to regionals in the 100 meters, despite dealing with a foot injury for a good part of the season, an injury which still causes her some problems today.

“Knowing all the circumstances I went through with my foot hurting and being in a boot, I was proud of my accomplishments,” Collins said.

Head coach Shawn Flanagan sees Collins as one of the stars of the squad.

“Ebony is one of the key athletes on the team,” Flanagan said. “She runs on both relays, and is our fastest sprinter. She was a regional qualifier in outdoor track last year.”

Now that Collins is healthy, Flanagan expects the most out of her.

“She was sick and hurt at the indoor Southland conference meet, so she struggled mightily, as did the team,” Flanagan said. “With her healthy and running faster than she has before, things are looking very good for our outdoor Southland conference meet.”

On competition days, Collins gets herself into the right mindset with the help of music.

“Whether we are on a bus, or if the event is here, I listen to my music,” Collins said. “I get into the zone and tune everyone out. It’s just me. Right when we start, I pray, both for a good outcome and a good race.”

12

04.30.2015

ISLAND WAVES

University Center Grand Re-Opening

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