Volume 26 Issue 15

#CU at the UC

Islander Dance Demo

University Center holds grand re-opening ceremony

page 6

Like totally tubular movie

by AMBER QUAID managing editor

T photo courtesy of TAMUCC.EDU

Students, faculty and staff explore the newly renovated University Center during the grand re-opening on May 1.

by STERLEN KEMP news reporter

T

he newly renovated University Center has officially opened its doors to the student body at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

The Grand Re-Opening ceremony took place on Friday, May 1 at 10:30 a.m. outside of the Anchor Ballroom entrance. The ceremony was filled with representatives from both the Island University and the Corpus Christi city government.

“Today is an exciting day on the University campus,” said Dr. Don Albrecht, vice president for Student Engagement and Success at the Island University. “Today’s ceremony is a culmination of a long process that be-

gan in 2011. This was a very complex project, but we are excited about the results.”

After the ceremony commenced, various members of the different departments within the University Center gathered with chains to connect to one another. The chains symbolized the University Center connecting students of A&M-Corpus Christi to each other and to the university.

Festivities such as self-guided tours, free food, giveaways and live music entertainment were enjoyed by the massive crowd coming to see the new hub for student life on campus.

“The University Center is the heart of our campus,” said Dr. Flavius Killebrew, president and CEO of Texas

A&M University-Corpus Christi. “It is a place where Islander memories are made that will be cherished for years to come.”

Everything needed for the college student life is all located in one location. Instead of walking halfway across campus to visit the SandDollar Office or looking for a space to study and relax, students can enjoy the convenience that this new University Center has to offer.

Originally the University Center was built in 1999 to facilitate only 6,500 students. Due to the overwhelming influx of new students a plan was proposed to develop a 35,000 square foot expansion to the University Center. see UC on page 3

Campus carry debate continues

he year is 1985, “Back to the Future” was first released into theaters and became the highest grossing film of that year. Compact discs were first introduced and Madonna’s “Crazy for You” single debuted. This was the premise of the setting for the movie “Ping Pong Summer,” directed

by Michael Tully and brought to the Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi students and staff by South Texas Cinémathèque at the Art Museum of South Texas on May 1.

“South Texas Cinémathèque is a film screening series designed to broaden exposure to independent films by bringing internationally recognized filmmakers to Corpus Christi,” said Edward Tyndall, assistant professor of Communication.

In 2015, South Texas Cinémathèque’s 13 year of screenings, they brought in filmmaker Michael Tully. Tully is known for his other works, “Cocaine Angel” (2006) and “Septien” (2011) which both received numerous film festival awards.

Tully was on site after the movie screening to talk about the film and the process of what all went into making it. see CINEMATHEQUE on page 7

Islanders’ parents voice their opinions on the proposed bill

by LUIS ENRIQUE GOMEZ contributing writer

M

any parents of future Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi students visiting the campus this past Island Day had no clue guns could be coming to campus.

One father was shocked to learn about it.

“I am going to tell my daughter to be careful.....to mind her own business.....do not argue with anybody..... arguments cause problems” said Paparao Gedela.

Some future Islander parents who

were displaying the “my child got accepted tags” on their chests during Island Day this past weekend agreed with campus carry as soon as they learned about it.

But a group of young girls and the father of one of them, all originally from India, said they had no true concept about guns.

Campus carry is the bill that will allow concealed handgun owners the right to carry a gun on campus. It could become a law soon.

Mr. Victor Montemayor Sr. and Mrs. Silvia Montemayor, two grandparents of a future Islander, are from

Waco, Texas. They were visiting the Island with their daughter and grandson, who just got accepted. They shared their views on campus carry and personal responsibility.

“I am all for it. At least they have a chance if somebody comes and starts shooting,” Montemayor Sr. said.

Montemayor Sr.’s wife said she felt the same way. While she understands that the majority of campus shootings have been done by students, she does not support the measure.

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

see CAMPUS CARRY on page 3

VOLUME 26, ISSUE 15

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opinion

ISLAND WAVES

05.07.2015

Surviving college, congrats you made it

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

KELSEY FLORES copy editor

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

distribution manager

WENDY MOORE faculty adviser

AMY KOTULSKI staff adviser

JESSE DE LEON

graduate adviser

contact us 6300 Ocean Drive Unit 5783 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 825-5862 photos courtesy of flickr.com

write us a letter The Island Waves accepts letters no longer than 250 words.

Letters are subject to editing. Send letters to the editor via email at editor@tamucc.edu.

about island waves The Island Waves is a student-produced publication at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. The newspaper is printed weekly, except during summer sessions.

Since A&M- Corpus Christi has no journalism department, Island Waves is supported by student fees and advertising sales.

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

by TREY SEAL

Entertainment Reporter

A

fter four years of high school life and a summer of celebration the transition to college is a tough one. However it is an opportunity that nobody should throw away and for those who have emerged from their first year then congratulations, you have an idea of what you will be facing in the three forthcoming years ahead. After five years of attending higher education, these are the lessons I have learned about seeing it through to the end.

Working on the basics is probably the most annoying part and at times you will be curled up in bed to get away from all of the stress. Everybody has their method of getting through all of the papers and reading assignments. Some go to the library others go to a coffee shop and some gather with friends and use the comfort of company to help them get through it.

Do not wait until the last minute, especially if you have a poor understanding of the subject matter that you are working on. Procrastination allows people to have fun temporarily but for many, the compounding angst will result in a rushed paper that will result in a low grade rather than that of a well-researched paper. If you find yourself stuck early on, go speak to the professor during his or her office hours. Most professors are willing to give

advice on a paper a test or an assignment that is giving someone trouble.

Some teachers will even review early and tell the student how to improve upon it.

Teachers were once students too. They know what you are going through and most understand that not everybody is as passionate about their specific subject matter as they are.

Do not make a bad habit of skipping classes, attendance is just as important as assignments. When it comes down to the final grade, a professor is more likely to provide a minor grade bump from a 79 to an 80 or allow extra credit for a student they know is trying as opposed to a student whose face that they rarely see.

Make sure to get to know classmates.

Not only will it make college less of a lonely experience but it will also provide a support network of people who can help you to get through the roughest times, whether it is through assistance on homework or moral support. The friendships that one builds in college will likely last a lifetime.

Get involved in campus activities.

There are tons of different clubs appealing to different interests and even sororities and fraternities that hold social events that let students bond with fellow like-minded members. Additionally it gets students out of their dorm rooms or work when they have those precious moments of freedom.

Watch what you eat for both your

health and your wallet. It is tempting to go out every meal while in college but it is a well-known fact that finding non-fattening food on a fast food menu is nearly impossible. Just remember that nourishment is truly what you seek.

Go to the grocery store and buy oatmeal, apples, peanut butter and crackers among other natural alternatives to get through most of the day and try to eat proteins and veggies to keep energy levels up.

If the stress becomes overwhelming, please go visit one of the on-campus counselors at the Driftwood building.

They will schedule weekly appointments to discuss the various happenings in students’ life and help them cope with the stress.

There is no reason to do something drastic and irreversible because of the pain that one feels now. As tough as it can feel at times, just remember that this one small section of a longer life is still ahead.

Additionally, be careful with what you post to Facebook. Believe it or not, future employers may just look through that timeline of pictures and pessimistic posts. The choices that you make today may come back to haunt you in the future.

No matter how tough it seems now, it will eventually be over and by the end of it all, you will be a much stronger person than you were when you entered.

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news

05.07.2015

ISLAND WAVES

photo by JAMIE FINK

President Flavius Killebrew and First Lady Kathy Killebrew cut a cake during the opening ceremony for the University Center.

UC continued from page 1 There are currently more than 11,200 students enrolled at the Island University. That number is estimated to jump to 15,000 by 2020.

Anticipated new developments to the University Center are the changes to the dining area, The Cove, formerly known as the Commons Market. The renovations expanded the section to double its original size.

There will be multiple dining options for students to choose from including grill favorites, burgers,

soups and salads and of course the addition of Pizza Hut, Panda Express, Grill Nation and Chick-Fil-A. These amenities will become available during the later part of the summer.

Along with new dining areas, the Breakers Game room has completely changed itself to a chic, relaxing space for students to unwind and enjoy being an Islander. The room is furnished with state-of-the-art entertainment and gaming systems available for students to enjoy.

“Several of these new additions, from a student involvement center

CAMPUS CARRY continued from page 1 “We all have problems, but the majority of us do not have problems,” she said.

She said that as a parent or grandparent there is a desire to protect children and teach them independency. She also said that one needs to teach their children about the outside world and values, so that when they get out in the real world they know that.

“We are from the country.....We are about weapons.....So they know how to use their gun.....Hopefully we have shown our grandson the values of that, so that he can carry on by himself out here in the real world,” Montemayor said.

A father and a group of students who are originally from India had no clue about the possibility that guns could be coming to campus. They said the only thing they knew about guns was what they saw in movies.

“In India it is not our culture. But Americans have a different culture.

Their culture is to carry guns with them. Mahatma Gandhi is our role model,” said Athira Madhusoodanan.

Mr. Paparo Gedela, his daughter, Mohini Gedela, and Athira Madhusoodanan live in Ingleside.

Both Mohini Gedela and Athira Madhusoodanan are future Islanders.

They said that they do not know how it would feel to be around people with guns. That India is a peaceful country were only police wear guns.

The future Islanders from India who are Hindu, follow Gandhi’s

teachings. They said that they do not like guns, alcohol or violence.

“If we are not taking care of someone else’s business and we only take care of our business, then there is no fight and no fear,” said Mohini Gedela.

Gedela said that he was going to be worried if students begin to bring guns to school. And the future Islanders said they could not begin to imagine how they are going to feel being around other students with concealed handguns.

Mrs. Josephine Bello and her daughter Anna Lee Bello are from San Antonio, Texas. The future Islander and her mother also shared their views on campus carry.

“I do not like the fact that it is concealed. I think it should be visible,” Bello said.

The future Islander and her mother were not aware that guns could be coming to campus.

Katherine Hide and her future Islander Aliyah McCray are from Round Rock, Texas. They had no idea that guns could be coming to college campuses. Hide said this will be McCray’s first time away from home and her first year in college. They both feel it is an extra unnecessary risk and that more people could get killed, if campus carry becomes law.

“Just because you have a license does not mean you are going to shoot the right way,” Hide said.

The future Islanders will start their college careers this coming fall 2015.

to a state-of-the-art game room, [all] help to create a welcoming atmosphere for our students to get more involved while on their journey to academic success,” Albrecht said.

The new University Center is not only aesthetically impressive, it is also impressively environmentally conscious. During the renovation process, the builders made sure to utilize the natural sunlight thought the building. This thoughtfulness ranks the University Center on the LEED Silver Standards of measurable “green” building design.

Excitement can be felt all throughout the Island for the new University Center. This center is the heart of campus. Student organizations will be able to implement plans to better campus life in this building. Students from the Island University will have access to resources various spaces that will make their college experience better. The new University Center has always and will forever be the chain of connection between all Islanders alike. #CUattheUC #ConnectingTAMUCC

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ISLAND WAVES

05.07.2015

Island Waves

Te x a s A & M Un i ve r s i t y - C o r p u s C h r i s t i

student newspaper

Now Hiring Sports Reporter Entertainment Reporter Photographer Layout Assistant Advertising Assistant Distribution Manager On-Air Talent Video Editor

applications now being accepted career-services.tamucc.edu contact us in the newsroom (361) 825-5862 • editor@tamucc.edu

5

05.07.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Seniors showcase ‘Project of Excellence’ at Honor Symposium

by JAIME FINK web editor

E

very year, students who are graduating from the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Honors Program must present a Project of Excellence before fellow honor students, faculty and honors administration. Each students is given anywhere from 15-30 minutes to present a project and the research obtained while working on that project.

The Project of Excellence is an overall honors experience presented as a senior capstone. All students who look to graduate from the program are required to conduct and present a Project of Excellence.

This project is designed to allow each student to create an original piece of work unique to the student’s major or interests. Each project consists of a written proposal, a presentation to the program and a defense before the honors administration, honors faculty and honors council members.

Byron Pillow, BA in Music, minor in Biology.

Project of Excellence: “Sliding through History: The Trombones of Frank Holton & Co., as seen in the National Music Museum.”

photos by Jaime Fink

Thanh Pham, BS in Biomedical Sciences. Her project of Excellence: “Information theoretic approach to decode Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Receptor signaling.”

CASA offers tutorial, academic support to students

by STERLEN KEMP news reporter

F

inals season has officially arrived at the front door of many Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi students. However some students on campus are unaware of the academic advising services offered at the university.

Places like CASA, the Center for Academic Student Achievement, offer students at the Island University the tutorial and academic support they need to succeed.

“Students are encouraged to utilize all academic support programs,” said Hector Duarte, one of the directors at CASA. “CASA data has shown that students who complete regular visits and take part in CASA services tend to gain a higher grade point average of at least .50 to 1.0 percentage points than those students who do not.”

The services offered through CASA are the Islander Success Advocate Program, basic tutoring, supplemental instruction, the Writing Center, reading specialist and retention specialist. These programs and services are all available to students enrolled at the Island University.

As it relates to finals week instructors may offer special out-

of-class peer facilitated study sessions through the Supplemental Instruction program offered by CASA. “Supplemental Instruction is an academic assistance program connected to entry-level courses,” said Duarte. “Throughout the semester, regularly scheduled study sessions focus on academic assistance for that individual course.”

CASA seeks to make sure that every Islander students has the prospects of succeeding in their academic lives. They work hard to make sure each student gets individual attention.

“CASA’s main concern is assisting students in the realization of academic success,” said Duarte.

“Our staff works diligently to help students gain an understanding of individual learning styles and mastering learning strategies.”

Every year, CASA receives thousands of visitations from students. During the 2013-2014 school year, they totaled more than 28,000 visits, 4,769 of those were unique student visits.

Another feature of CASA is their Islander Success Advocate Program.

This program is designed to help first-year students with academic assistance from their fellow upper-

division peers. The advocates reach out to these students and provide a sort of mentorship.

“I’m a student assistant at CASA,” said Aidreauna Nash, a student staff member of CASA. “I work with students who are on academic probation, need help registering for classes, or they are first year students.”

It is a good idea for students at the Island University to take advantage of services like CASA, especially during this time of stress regarding finals. All of the services are included in the tuition of enrolled students. Scheduling for tutoring will cost absolutely nothing.

CASA student worker, Aidreauna Nash says it may be a little too late in the semester to start seeking academic assistance now but that it would be a good idea to visit if students have any last minute concerns or questions.

“By now, it’s a little too late, you either know the material or you don’t, but CASA does offer students extra help on their classes and any last-minute advice,” said Nash.

“Students have until Tuesday to get some last-minute tutoring in and clear any confusion they may have before finals start.”

The service that CASA provides

can be the determining factor between a pass and a fail for some students. Taking the initiative to visit one of the knowledgeable workers of CASA may be the greatest decision of a person’s college career.

If one wants to know about the services and programs offered by the Center for Academic Student Achievement, visit casa.tamucc. edu.

photo by Sterlen Kemp

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campus

05.07.2015

ISLAND WAVES

GRADUATING SENIOR PROFILE ANGELICA BLAKES

by GERI LEMMONS features reporter

G

raduation is just around the corner and the seniors at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi are about to move on and start a new journey.

They will be starting their careers and moving on from the university. Before that happens make sure to meet one of the fellow graduating students before she moves on to bigger and better things.

One of the University students is planning on doing a lot after graduation and plans to be a part of teaching others everything that she has learned in classes at the university.

Her name is Angelica Blakes and she is a business marketing student here at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi.

Blakes said after graduation she plans to work for Barbizon USA as a teaching instructor to young girls. She teaches acting, modeling and personal development classes for the students she will be working with.

“I have had the opportunity to teach young girls through this organization for the last month and the rewards of seeing so many beautiful smiling faces is unmeasurable,” Blakes said.

“My duty to help young girls feel secure with themselves and ensure that they understand the importance of physical, as well as mental health.”

Blakes also plans to use her marketing degree for good use in this organization. She wants to move up in the organization to become the Director of Education so she can develop the Corpus Christi market to its full potential, and she is going to use all the education she got from the

Island University to help her with that goal.

But before that, to celebrate graduation Blakes plans to go to Las Vegas with her friends to have some fun and relaxation time. Then she plans on going back home to New Orleans, Louisiana to spend some much needed quality time with her loved ones.

While at the Island University Blakes had the chance to meet one of her favorite professors Dr. Monica Hernandez. She had so many things to say about Hernandez and the impact she had on her.

Blakes said she likes Hernandez because she keeps to herself with multiple undergraduate and graduate classes. She said Hernandez is very knowledgeable in the field of marketing, and Blakes is proud to have taken more than four of her courses.

“My absolute favorite professor has been Dr. Monica Hernandez,” Blakes said. “She has impacted my life over the past two years as an online as well as an in class professor.”

Angelica also said that during her time at the Island University her favorite place to study was actually her own bedroom. She said she knew it is nontraditional but it was the place she studied in the most and she felt the most comfortable there. She studied there for her entire college career and she made it to the very end without any problems.

For actual graduation Blakes plans on decorating her cap like other seniors will maybe do also with an Egyptian art theme for that special day.

photos courtesy of Angelica Blakes

One of Blakes’ favorite places is the beach.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ACHIEVE PARTNER

A group of A&M-Corpus Christi American Marketing Association members at the 2015 Conference.

Blakes traveled to New Orleans for a conference during Spring Break.

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

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entertainment

05.07.2015

ISLAND WAVES

CINEMATHEQUE continued from page 1

photo by AMBER QUAID

Deborah Fullerton talks to the students about what the Art Museum of South Texas offers them.

The main Ping Pong Summer movie poster for 2014.

“We had an opportunity to have really tremendous film makers here and Michael Tully is certainly no exception,” Tyndall said.

According to pingpongsummer. com, “Ping Pong Summer” is set in the year 1985. Rad Miracle (Marcello Conte) is a shy 13-yearold white kid who is obsessed with two things: ping pong and hip hop.

During his family’s annual summer vacation to Ocean City, Maryland, Rad makes a new best friend, experiences his first real crush, becomes the target of rich local bullies, and finds an unexpected mentor in his outcast next door neighbor (Susan Sarandon). Ping Pong Summer is about that time in ones life when they are treated like an alien by everyone around them, even though they know deep down

photo courtesy of pingpongsummer.com

their as funky fresh as it gets.

“My goal was to kind of insert my own,” Tully said, “I grew up in the ‘80s and I wanted to try to make a movie that felt like an artifact from the 80’s.”

This movie was shot in 16 days in Maryland with a $1.5 million dollar budget. Tully grew up in Maryland and for one week every summer his family use to go visit Ocean City, this was the basis for the movie.

The cast included child actors from the Maryland area as well as Francis Tully, naked man in the sink and Mary Ann Tully, naked man’s wife, who are Michael Tully’s reallife parents. Other cast members included Lea Thompson, award winner for her role in “Back to the Future,” as Rad Miracle’s mother and John Hannah, best known for his

photo by AMBER QUAID

Jacob, editing student, and his wife Terra Erwin enjoy the Q&A session with director Michael Tully.

photo courtesy of pingpongsummer.com

A movie clip of Susan Sarandon as the crazy next door neighbor defending Rad against the bullies.

roles in “The Mummy” and the TV series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” as Rad Miracle’s father. The most recognizable cast member is Oscar Award winner Susan Sarandon, who played the role of the crazy neighbor.

“Ping Pong Summer” made its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014.

“It was fun to watch the ‘80s,” said Islander editing student, Ian Roe. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to get to see films with their filmmakers, hear from them, what it’s like to make these films, how they put the resources together and how they get the projects made,” said Dr. David Gurney, assistant professor and graduate coordinator for the Department of Communication & Media.

“It was awesome getting to meet

a real Hollywood filmmaker,” said Islander editing student Jacob Erwin.

The Art Museum of South Texas helped bring university students and Tully together for a night of film and getting to know the director. The Art Museum of South Texas is free to all university students, with ID, and this is one of many ways the museum connects with students.

“Edward [Tyndall] has brought to the forefront this cornucopia of filmmakers that are doing really relevant things,” said Deborah Fullerton, curator of exhibitions at the Art Museum of South Texas.

More information on South Texas Cinémathèque can be found on Facebook or by phone at 8252296. More information on Ping Pong Summer can be found at www.pingpongsummer.com.

Movie theater seating room showcasing the screen where Ping Pong Summer was shown and where Michael Tully talked to Texas A&M students and faculty.

photo by AMBER QUAID

8

entertainment

05.07.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Bethany Doan, Jasmine Archangel, Lekeita Crawford, Thi Nguyen and Lucy Garcia perform Never Settle choreographed by Brittany Salinas.

photos courtesy of Eli Berke and Jaime Fink

Dance Seniors give appreciation to the Lucy Garcia, Nia Lane, Freddy Acevedo and Frank Garcia perform Concrete by Lakeita Crawford.

Bethany Doan and Michelle Surlivan in Rock 90s.

The Backyard War by Freddy Acevedo.

Revolution by The Stage Dance Student Organization.

Dance Performance students express their feeling in A Pioneer Story.

Let’s dance AMERICANA

ABOVE: “Backyard war” piece, choreographed by Freddy Acevedo.

BELOW: Final piece is a medley of Americana Rocks.

ABOVE: Ballet student give an impressive opening piece called Red, White and Blue.

LEFT: Dance Seniors give appreciation to their professor, Jilissa Cotten on Stage before the show.

05.07.2015

Summer Movies 2015

by TREY SEAL entertainment reporter

2

015 looks like it will be an incredible year for movies. From the lush jungles of Isla Nublar (Jurassic World) to a galaxy far far away and the dystopian wasteland the lineup of films will take us on an expedition through our imaginations.

“Avengers: Age of Ultron” sees earth’s mightiest heroes taking on their deadliest threat with Ultron, a robot who was originally created by AntMan in the comics (by Iron Man in the film). As a villain, Ultron is a brutal, yet fascinating character. A robot with a perfect, flawless mind that desires to correct all that is not perfect (essentially everything).

During his quest to fix the world to his standards, He will blaze a trail of destruction that will ensure plenty of dark moments throughout the film.

Additionally, this movie will introduce at least two additional superheroes with the Scarlet Witch (played by Elizabeth Olsen, younger sister of the Olsen twins) and Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor Johnson, star of “Kick-Ass”). Overall, the movie is looking to be packed to the brim with action, special guest appearances and surprises. It is in theaters now.

“Jurassic World” completely ignores the events of “The Lost World” and “Jurassic Park III,” taking place 22 years after the original movie. The plot, a

metaphor for capitalist greed, is about the opened and operating Jurassic World theme park. It entails Owen Grady (Chris Pratt, “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Parks and Rec”) a man who studies velociraptor behavior and Claire Dearing, a shortsighted parks operation manager, as they struggle to contain a genetically modified dinosaur that contains the DNA of some of the most vicious reptiles to walk the earth.

The movie looks fast paced, high octane and like it will be bringing back the much loved suspense of the original movie. Director/writer Colin Trevorrow does not have many credits to his name but has proven his ability to write strong multi-dimensional characters with his debut feature length film “Safety Not Guaranteed.” With every new trailer, hype appears to be building from fans both new and old. “Jurassic World” will be in theaters on June 12, 2015.

“Mad Max: Fury Road” is the fourth installment in the classic dystopian future franchise. The classic Mad Max trilogy starred Mel Gibson in the title role but this new entry has Tom Hardy (Bane in “Dark Knight Rises”) playing the role and so far it could not look more glorious.

Fury Road brings back the franchise’s original creator writer and director George Miller to take audiences back to the wastelands. The movie is quite notably forgoing the use of CGI effects in order to maintain a complete

9

entertainment

ISLAND WAVES

photo courtesy of commons.wikimedia.com

sense of realism.

W h e n viewing the trailers, it can be seen how much of a feat this is. Elaborate monster trucks with weapons galore and psychotic looking characters litter the landscape, giving the entire movie a strong sense of character.

“Mad Max: Fury Road” opens May 15, 2015.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is the long awaited seventh movie in the long-running franchise. With a setting that takes place 30 years in the future, details are still vague about the plot of this movie. It has been revealed that the original cast from Mark Hammill (Luke Skywalker) all the way down to the small man who controlled R2-D2 from within the robot will return to reprise

their iconic roles from the original movies.

Actors John Boyega and Daisy Ridley appear to be the new stars of the film that have many speculating that this movie will have the female jedi protagonist in the live action movies.

Like “Mad Max, The Force Awakens” this movie uses minimal CGI effects, electing the use them only when absolutely necessary (lightsabers,etc.). Aliens will therefore utilize expert puppetry from the Jim Henson workshop, much like the original three movies.

These are the major players but there are many other great movies coming out this year from a variety of genres.

This lineup shows that Hollywood has not lost its touch and still knows what it takes to make an exciting movie.

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sports opinion

05.07.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Sports help heal in times of trouble

by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

here have been several inT stances over the years which have truly proven the power watching and attending sporting events has on American citizens.

The earliest event of this magnitude I can remember was the outpouring of support New York City’s sports teams received after the tragic events of 9/11. The eyes of the nation were on the New York Yankees, because the Yankees are the epitome of America’s pastime.

The team did not feel like playing that day; the wounds were still very fresh, and playing a game did not feel right.

Once the team took the field, they realized, as did the fans in attendance, that it was okay to play the game. It was okay to show those who attacked the most populated city in the

United States that the nation would one day emerge from this sorrow.

Another notable example of sporting events aiding in the triumph of the human spirit occurred in 2013, when the Tsarnaev brothers detonated bombs near the end of the race, which changed for many the image of the historic event. Three people were killed, and 264 others were injured on that dreadful day.

Once again, sports would serve as a means for the city to heal together. The Boston Red Sox played a game against the Kansas City Royals one day after the bombings occurred. In a moment watched by many, and a moment I will not soon forget, the Royals showed tremendous class by joining the Red Sox in solidarity, as both teams wore special uniforms to mark the tragedy.

The Red Sox won the World

Series that season, and longtime designated hitter David Ortiz was celebrated throughout the season for his fiery speech given to fans shortly after the bombings occurred, in which he uttered a curse word in a moment of heated passion, and brought the fans sitting in the stands much needed joy.

None of this is meant to suggest sports can cure anything.

However, I feel it is the comradery between fans, and the unity of a city in support of its teams, which greatly helps in dark times.

Recently, riots have been occurring in Baltimore over the death of Freddie Gray while he was in police custody. I’m not here to judge whether or not the rioters are justified. However, in a stark contrast to the incidents mentioned before, the stands at Camden Yards, the home ballpark of the Baltimore Orioles, were very quiet on the

afternoon of April 29.

The team felt it would be illadvised to pull security from the scenes of these riots. Of course, security is needed at every sporting event. These actions led to what is widely believed to have been the first major league game to be played without a single fan in attendance. The Orioles managed to win the contest 8-2 over the visiting Chicago White Sox, but that is of no consequence compared to what is happening in the city.

Baltimore is only the latest city to experience a flurry of rioting citizens. It will be a long while before the riots stop, and the city is brought to relative peacefulness. However, as evidenced through the years, one fact cannot be denied. When all is said and done, fans will flock to Camden Yards, eager to keep their mind occupied after these recent events.

Healthly and fit summer through Rec Sports

by SPORTS REC recsports.tamucc.edu

S

tudents, staff and faculty can continue to use to recreational sports facilities through the summer but there are a few rules. According to recsports.tamucc.edu all students enrolled in the current semester are eligible to use the facilities and participate in Recreational Sports programs.

Faculty and staff must purchase a Recreational Sports Membership.

The cost is $90 semester/$270 annually, which is indexed from the student rate (this means it is paid as part of you tuition). Annual memberships may only be purchased during the Fall semester.

Faculty and staff do not have to buy a membership, there are other alternatives. Faculty/ staff and retirees may pay $5 per visit.

Adjuncts are eligible to use the facilities only during the semester in which they are under contract with the university (not eligible for annual pass). Adjuncts must obtain a SandDollar ID at the University Center.

University affiliates are also eligible for duration of employment/ contract only. (Eligible parties are: Wells Fargo, Camden Miramar, Momentum Village, SSC, TAMUS, NRC occupants and Harte Research Center. They must obtain a SandDollar ID at the University Center.)

If a qualifying person has a spouse/ domestic partner, they too can purchase a membership but must show proof of co-residence (joint checking account, utility bill with same address, marriage certificate, etc.).

Also if a qualifying person has a dependant (18-25) this will entitle their unmarried, dependent children use of the facilities. Dependents must obtain a SandDollar ID at the University Center. Children

Photo courtesy of RecSports

(17 & under) may accompany an eligible user at no cost. They must remain with their sponsor at all times. They are not allowed to use any cardiovascular equipment or weight equipment.

Alumni are also permitted to purchase a membership to use the facilities. The membership is $120 per semester or can pay $5 at the door. They must show proof of graduation, or can be looked up on the Banner system in the office.

Guests are welcomed with a punch card which is 5 visits for $10 or

they can pay $5 per visit ($2.00 if only using the pool).

Memberships may be purchased through Marketplace.

Rec Sports also offers the opportunity to get First Aid, Adult CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automated external defibrillator) certification. There is only one more class available until Fall 2015.

Their classes are taught by a certified American Red Cross Instructor.

The cost for certifications are $55 for all 3 certifications (CPR/AED/ First Aid). Everybody must pay the

full amount before the class date in order to be registered. Last class date is May 29 from 10:00am2:00pm in the DWC Conference Room 115. To register for class contact the Rec Sports Office @ 825-2454 or go online to recsports. tamucc.edu. After registering for a class look at the participant manual. Participant manual is made available online through the tamucc.edu website (First Aid). For special group classes, groups must have a minimum requirement of 5 people!

11

sports

05.07.2015

Islander baseball swept in doubleheader

Photo courtesy of GO ISLANDERS

ISLAND WAVES

by JEREMY PAPE sports reporter

T

he Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders’ baseball team lost two hard fought contests to the University of Texas-Pan American Broncs on April 28, at Chapman Field.

Garrett Harris started the game on the mound for the Islanders, and walked UTPA senior outfielder Logan Landon to begin the game. Landon then stole second base and advanced to third on a Broncs bunt. He came across home plate for the Broncs’ first run of the game, off the bat of junior outfielder Cole Loncar. Harris walked another batter in the inning, but was able to avoid any additional damage as the side was retired.

Islanders senior outfielder Jordan Lee was walked to begin the bottom of the first. The speedy Lee stole second base, and advanced to third on a ground out by senior outfielder Tyler Ware. Redshirt sophomore outfielder Zacarias Hardy drove Lee in on a single to tie the game at 1 at the end of the first inning.

A double and a wild pitch by Harris gave UTPA a 2-1 lead in the top of the third.

Thomas singled to give the Islanders a man on base in their half of the third, prompting the Broncs to change pitchers, as freshman Ryan Jackson came in for freshman George Lamb.

Harris hit the Broncs’ senior infielder Jesus Garcia with a pitch to begin the fourth inning. Sophomore first baseman Victor Garcia Jr. singled and advanced to second, brining Garcia to third. Garcia then scored on a wild pitch, as Garcia Jr. advanced to third. Junior Kaleb Keith came in to relieve Harris’ pitching duties. Another run came across for UTPA before the Islanders were able to get out of the inning.

Keith walked Landon to begin the fifth inning. Landon advanced to third on a single off the bat of junior infielder Scott Mercer. Loncar singled to bring Landon in and advanced Mercer to second. Senior Tyler Schnuriger came in to replace Keith for the Islanders. A successful bunt attempt by junior outfielder Correy Davis, followed by a wild pitch, brought Mercer in to make the score 6-1 at the halfway point of the game.

With one man out in the bottom of

the seventh, junior third baseman Cody Clarke singled for the Islanders. The Islanders had some good fortune, as sophomore catcher Lukas Hermanson reached base on a fielder’s choice, and Clarke advanced to second on a throwing error. Lee drove Clarke in on the next at bat, as Hermanson got into scoring position.

Hermanson advanced to third as junior shortstop Casey Thomas flied out. Ware singled to bring in Hermanson and advance Lee to second. UTPA was able to work its way out of the inning however, and the score stood 6-3 going into the eighth.

Redshirt sophomore Nolan Holland came in to pitch for the Islanders, and walked the first batter he saw.

The Broncs’ freshman outfielder Manny Loredo hit a single and advanced to second as redshirt senior outfielder Lee Rios stole third.

Landon reached base on a fielder’s choice, driving Rios in and advancing Loredo to third. Jacob Dorris was called in to relieve Holland, and got the Islanders out of trouble.

Senior outfielder Kyle Danford singled to begin the bottom of the eighth. Junior first baseman Justin Perales reached on a fielder’s choice, sending Danford back to the dugout. Sophomore second baseman Brett Burner grounded out while putting Perales in scoring position, but Perales could not capitalize.

Dorris got the Islanders out of the top of the final inning unblemished.

In the bottom half, with one man out, Lee walked. However, Thomas grounded into a double play, ending the game with the final score of 7-3.

“We weren’t very offensive in a park that plays offensive,” Islanders head coach Scott Malone said. “We’ve always been a club that’s been able to generate runs, and we’ve just been really inconsistent this year.”

Redshirt sophomore first baseman Zacarias Hardy hit his first collegiate home run in the first game of the doubleheader, and went one-of-four with a run batted in in the second contest. Yet, the end result left Hardy discontent.

“It was a frustrating day,” Hardy said. “I feel like I got myself out a couple times, which is really frustrating, because I didn’t feel [UTPA’s] pitching was up to par. I’ve been playing baseball for a long time, and it’s never fun to lose.”

12

05.07.2015

ISLAND WAVES

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