Volume 26 Issue 24

TEXAS TEXASA&M A&MUNIVERSITY–CORPUS UNIVERSITY–CORPUSCHRISTI CHRISTI || ISLANDWAVESNEWS.COM ISLANDWAVESNEWS.COM || VOLUME VOLUME26 26ISSUE ISSUE24 20 || 09.24.15 08.27.15

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Student-driven focus photo by JAMIE FINK

State of the University highlights Islander students, programs

by JAMIE FINK editor-in-chief

E

very year, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi hosts their annual ‘State of the University’ address to enlighten the Corpus Christi community of the improvements, goals and successes met in the previous year and those to come.

However, this year’s SOTU took a different focus. This year’s SOTU took the spotlight and placed it directly onto the students of the Island University. With the spotlight on the Island’s students, they took to the stage and ran with it.

Frank Garcia, theatre major, was the student emcee of the event.

Garcia opened up the event by introducing President and CEO of TAMUCC Dr. Flavius Kille-

“We may be on our own island, but we know that we do not stand alone.”

— Dr. Flavius Killebrew brew who had a special afternoon planned for patrons.

“We are grateful and excited to share this state of the university,” Killebrew said. “This year’s address is more of a dinner and a movie so sit back and relax.”

Multimedia presentations with videos narrated by student reporters took the audience on a visual tour of each college, highlighting the Island University’s progress on its path to becoming an emerging research institution and growing university.

To help highlight the past accom-

plishments and changes to the university, the SOTU was held in the newly renovated Anchor Ballroom located in the University Center.

This allowed patrons the chance to visit the Island University, which First Lady Kathy Killebrew said made this year’s address much more special than those in the past.

“People got to come to our house.

We were able to make it more student-oriented because it was here,” Kathy Killebrew said. “That’s why we are here, because of all our students.”

The event highlighted each of the five colleges, and the deans from each college showcased to the audience the areas of research and academia their colleges had reached in the previous year.

As the Island University continues to expand, the university has also introduced numerous academic and degree programs. From a Doctor of Nursing Practice to a Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Sciences, all new programs were highlighted by the deans and President Killebrew.

“It makes me prouder and prouder to see the community and the university coming together to respond to my husband’s vision for this university,” Kathy Killebrew see SOTU on page 7

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

2

opinion

ISLAND WAVES

09.24.2015

How to move on after graduation

by ALEICHIA WILLIAMS contributing writer

A

lmost everyone knows one person who has been on campus for several a student publication of years. They are the seniors Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi from ones freshman year, the friends working on their fourth degree, and sometimes they are even ourisland waves staff selves.

In a world of opportuniJAMIE FINK ties these individuals seem editor-in-chief to be stuck in the same place and when one encounters KELSEY FLORES these individuals they are copy editor met with the question of why, will and how. Why does KARA HERRERA this happen? Will it happen layout assistant to most students? How can students make sure to move GERI LEMMONS on after they graduate? features reporter Answering these quesMYELEENA GONZALEZ tions can be as complex as entertainment reporter each individual who stays around school after they ISAAC PAIGE graduate, but the main point sports reporter of it is that change is scary and leaving school is scary.

LUIS GOMEZ Students spend four years advertising assistant of their lives building who they are, creating bonds, ELI T. BERKE and learning new things. photographer The opportunity to set that all aside and start a new life WENDY MOORE can be frightening. faculty adviser When students stay where they are they run the risk of losing it all or gaining nothing. However it does not all have to be bad. There a several practical motivational ways to make sure students move on after they graduate.

One way is to get into contact us a graduate school out of town. Many professors are 6300 Ocean Drive knowledgeable in post-grad Unit 5783 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 programs pertaining to specific fields. This is because they were also once stu(361) 825-5862 dents looking for programs to study.

Find a professor who write us a letter teaches in the students desired field of interest and Island Waves accepts who can mentor them in letters no longer than different schools. After that 250 words. Letters are subject to editing. Send all that is left to do is apply. letters to the editor via Another way to make email at sure students move on after editor@tamucc.edu. graduating is to work an internship before graduation.

Internships are one of the about island waves most effective ways to secure employment for postThe Island Waves is graduation. Even seniors a student-produced have plenty of short-term publication at Texas opportunities they can work A&M University-Corpus during breaks and while in Christi. The newspaper is printed weekly, except school. Once students have during summer sesa secure job it is very diffisions. cult to stay in a place where they do not have that opIsland Waves is suption. ported by student fees The final solution that and advertising sales. can be used to plunge into Any student or Universi- a new life without looking ty employee may submit back to undergrad life is by remembering their freshmaterial for publicaman year. Remember the extion consideration. To become a contributor, citement of a new place and e-mail or call the Island the atmosphere of possibilWaves editor.

ity. Remember all the great choices that were available, the lessons they learned, as well as the person they became.

After this is done, think about the chance to experience the greatness of change again. The solution can be used as self-motivation. Especially when graduation is approaching and one is not sure what to do with ones self after graduation.

It is not always a negative

thing to stay at the university one has graduated from.

As was said in the beginning the reasons for why people stay vary immensely.

Yes it is true that many stay at their universities for fear of change but everyone’s situation is different.

Some may stay because of a specific program in their field of study. Some may stay because it is the best economical decision at that point in their lives.

Illustration by IZZY SNEED

When students ask themselves whether they should stay or go, they should try and self-reflect on the motive behind their choices.

An effective way to do this is to sit down and honestly ask whether that path is what is best for them. People should not sell themselves short, but also they should always do what works in their best interest.

3

news

09.24.2015

ISLAND WAVES

New student organization driven by student dreams

dent incubator.

“With that student incubator student associations developed, so he Collegiate Entrepreneurs the dean, Dr. Gamble, and I attendOrganization is a new organied several conferences which were zation at Texas A&M Universitycalled the United States Association Corpus Christi that wants to help Small Business and Entrepreneurs,” students make their entrepreneur he said. “So when we went to the ideas come to life regardless of conference I came across the CEO.” what ones major is.

This idea was already at work in The goal of this new organization other schools, and it took almost is to inform, support and inspire two years for the organization to students with all types of majors to get started, but now they are startbecome entrepreneurs and seek dif- ing to get things together as the ferent opportunities creating differ- year begins. ent networks and relationships. The One of the goals is to provide organization provides mentorship guidance, access to investors, difand internship opportunities along ferent business mentors, and give with guest speakers and different the students different business workshops. This is an organization networks that they can get to know that wants to give students a ready- while they are in the program. made network of business and pro“They don’t have to be a busifessional resources. ness major. There is no disciplinary Kent Byus, professor of marketrequirement to be a part of it,” Byus ing and entrepreneurship, said that said. “This organization is intended over the course of the last two years to allow students from all discithey began the development of an plines who have the desires to be an entrepreneurship program with in entrepreneur.” the management department. For This club is designed to give several years we have had the instudents a place to network. The novation center and as they went students are encouraged to bring from place to place one thing they creative ideas that go with their diswould notice is that they had a stu- cipline and the idea they have and

by GERI LEMMONS staff writer

T

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY–CORPUS CHRISTI

| ISLANDWAVESNEWS.COM | VOLUME 26 ISSUE 20 | 08.27.15

Island Waves has hired lots of new faces, but we are always accepting applications and ideas for stories!

want to make successful. All this club requires is that someone have some sort of a commercially buyable idea. Any major can become apart of this program and expand on the idea they want to share.

Andrew Johnson, assistant professor for the department of management and marketing, said that networking will be one of the biggest benefits to this organization. The organization hopes to have speakers and really engage in the community and the innovation center and focus on these types of activates.

“We will have a national conference so that some of the students can network and compete on an international level,” Johnson said.

“One of the nice things about CEO is a nationwide organization all

over the United States it is a benefit because it is not just here at Texas A&M Corpus Christi.”

Also just having exposure to entrepreneur innovations, helps students network, and expand their horizons, he said.

For more information about this organization and what all it has to offer, e-mail Entrepreneurs@ tamucc.edu or they have Chapter meetings starting Sept. 9 on the second Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the University Center Malone Room 317. One can also connect with them over Facebook at Tamucc-CEO or on Instagram tamucc_ceo.

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news

09.24.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Being Latino is deeper than skin color

by ALEICHIA WILLIAMS contributing writer

R

ed hair, blue eyes and peach skin is not what one would immediately envision when the word Spaniard comes up. Nonetheless, in many cases Latin Americans, and those of Spanish descent vary from the overpowering implications of olive skin and dark hair that are associated with Latins.

Take Sessle Sarpy, a Cuban of darker complexion and a former business management major at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

When asked about reactions he’s received when others realize he’s Latino he said they are surprised.

“They don’t believe that I am Latino,” he said. “Then I say something in Spanish, and they look at me and question me as to how it is possible. And then say, but you look black.”

This is not abnormal when one does not meet the standard ideology of what it means to be Latin American. There is a history that is often neglected in the media and this is often exposed in the experience of those ‘excluded’ Latin Americans.

Sarpy said there was a time when he made a post about Cubans and being proud of his heritage. An African-American male Commented:

“Stop denying your blackness. You are not Latino, you are black. You must hate yourself, and the world only sees you as a black person.”

The comment surprised Sarpy.

“This really shocked me because I was never denying anything. Being AfroCuban, everything in our culture is influenced by the African ancestors who have been on the island since the early 1500s,” he said. “However, people who do not understand the Latino culture have their ideas and thoughts set on what it means to be Latino.

Sarpy said there are times when he is forced to check one box when filling out forms for identity at school.

Another former student, Katie Joy Gonzales, shared a similar experiences. Gonzalez has fair skin and blond hair. She is part Puerto Rican and she explained that others do not usually assume she is a Latina.

“I have received multiple reactions,” she said. “The most popular are: ‘You don’t look Mexican’; ‘You do not look Hispanic’; ‘Who is Hispanic, your mom or your dad?’; or ‘I would never have guessed that you are Hispanic.’”

She said people make these statements after she tells them her last name is Gonzalez.

“They assume that I am Mexican

photo by ALEICHIA WILLIAMS

Sessle Sarpy, former business management major at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, shares his experience as a Latino American.

after hearing Gonzalez. Except that my father’s side is Puerto Rican,” she said. “He is one half Puerto Rican. This means I am one fourth Puerto Rican.”

When asked about a time when her identity as a Latina was challenged Gonzalez said, “A few times I have been teased for not being able to speak Spanish fluently.”

She said this occurred a few times in high school and college. She gets the order of her Spanish nouns and adjectives mixed up when she tries to have a conversation.

“I can only talk to some of my family members in Spanish,” she said.

Beyond this Gonzalez said she could not recall other situations

where her identity was challenged.

In retrospect, the Latin American people have a strong history of diverse background and origins.

Many forget about the diversity within Latin Americans and further the diversity that is all around.

As we move into Hispanic heritage month, students should keep in mind the distinct characteristics of Latin American culture.

For anyone who would like to learn more about Latin American History stop by the Mary and Jeff Bell Library Antonio E. Garcia Arts and Education Center on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2015 as they will host a viewing of “Latino Americans: 500 Years of History.”

Library embraces Hispanic Heritage Month

by GERI LEMMONS staff writer

O

n Sept. 15 the Mary and Jeff Library at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi presented a display related to Hispanic Heritage Month.

This display showcases games, books, art, information of public figures and different recipes related to the month celebrating Hispanic Heritage. This display will be up from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 and it is on the second floor of the library. It can be seen by anyone and it gives an abundance of information about the Hispanic culture and all the different things that are affiliated with it.

Jose Enrique, sophomore mechanical engineering major said it is a good display of common Hispanic heritage items and that it was really nice to see.

“I think that it is nice and very important for the American people to know what Latin or Hispanic peoples impact was on not only their culture but on all cultures in today’s world,” Enrique said. “My favorite

Pictured above is part of the Library’s Hispanic Heritage Month display.

part about the whole display is the Hispanic lottery game.”

The display showed all different representations of all things relating to what this month is all about.

There were different books sitting at the edge of the table with titles like “What if Latin America Ruled the World?,” “Latino Americans and Political participation,” and “Hispanics in the United States.”

All of these books are about sharing information on the heritage behind this particular month to anyone

photo by GERI LEMMONS

who reads them.

Alan Contreras, sophomore nursing major, said the display looked really cool and he really liked looking at it.

“It has all different Hispanic variety, and it shows a lot about the culture and what all it has to show off,” Contreras said. “People who may have not have known about this kind of stuff now have a chance to learn about it and have the opportunity to know about a different culture.”

All of the games displayed are

games that relate to Latin American Countries. There were even handmade dolls from Chihuahua, Mexico, paper rattles from Oaxaca, Mexico, and a Good Luck Charm from Peru. Along with all of those toys there was also a Loteria Game, which is Mexican Bingo.

Also going along with the display in the library was a collection of different recipes from different Latin American cultures. Some being deserts and others being different ideas for snacks and dinners. These were different cards that can be found on top of the display so students and anyone else who is interested can shuffle through any of the ideas.

Also there are cards there so that students can look at all of the events that are going on in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

For more information about the display in the library contact Jennifer Anderson by email jennifer. anderson@tamucc.edu. There is also some additional information in the library for students who want to know about any of the displays.

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campus

09.24.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Grant funds Library showcase

by SAMANTHA MAHLER contributing writer

T

he Mary and Jeff Bell Library at Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi has recently received an outstanding grant entitled “Latino Americans: 500 Years of History” that will allow programming to showcase the diverse history of Latino Americans.

The grant, which was awarded by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the American Library Association (ALA), has only been awarded to a select group of 203 recipients across the nation.

“Latino Americans: 500 Years of History” is part of a PBS series that documents the dayto-day struggles and exceptional accomplishments of Latino Americans ranging from the 16 century to today.

In keeping with Hispanic Heritage Month the Mary and Jeff Bell Library has decided to exhibit the award-winning documentary in a multi-installment series that presents four out of six episodes from “Latino Americans: 500 Years of History”.

These events will include discussions by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi professors from a wide range of backgrounds. Each professor is interested in a special area of Latin history, whether it is MexicanAmerican or Central American.

The $3,000 grant will allow the Mary and Jeff Bell Library to host four events in the coming weeks to showcase the distinguished narrative to both Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi students and members of the surrounding Corpus Christi area.

“The main point is to get the community talking and thinking

about the role of the MexicanAmerican experience in its history,” Ann Hodges of the Mary and Jeff Bell Library Special Collections said.

Listed below are the events and their show times. All events are free and open to the public.

Tuesday, Sept. 22: Foreigners in Their Own Land (1565-1880) 6 p.m.

The Mary and Jeff Bell Library will hold a viewing of the first episode of Latino Americans: 500 Years of History. The event will take place at the Antonio E. Garcia Arts and Education Center located at 2021 Agnes Street. Dr. Kelly Bezio will lead viewers in an engaging discussion after the film.

Refreshments are to follow.

Wednesday, Sept. 30: War and Peace (1942-1954) 4 p.m.

The Mary and Jeff Bell Library will hold a viewing of the third episode of Latino Americans: 500 Years of History. The event will take place in Anchor Ballroom D in the University Center located on the Island University. Dr. Anthony Quiroz will give a short lesson about the historical and cultural significance of the episode and lead a short discussion after the film. Refreshments are to follow.

Friday, Oct. 2: Chicanitas in South Texas – Art Collection Tour 6 p.m.

Dr. Carey Rote will lead a tour of Cheech Marin’s Chicanitas exhibit at the Art Museum of South Texas, located at 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd. These small paintings explore the unique identities of Mexican Americans based upon the environmental, social, and intellectual factors that impact upon their world. Refreshments are to follow.

Tuesday, Oct. 6: The New Latinos (1946-1965) 6 p.m.

The Mary and Jeff Bell Library will hold a viewing of the fourth episode of Latino Americans: 500 Years of History. The event will take place in Anchor Ballroom D in the University Center located on the University. Dr. Claudia Rueda will explore the rich

history of Corpus Christi’s role in the struggle for civil rights.

Refreshments are to follow For more information, contact Jennifer Anderson at 361-8253321 or email jennifer.anderson@ tamucc.edu.

“The main point is to get the community talke and thinking about the role of the Mexican-American experience in its history. ” — Ann Hodges

photo courtesy of TAMUCC FLICKR Latino history and culture is prevelant on the TAMUCC campus, which features a plaza and stature designated to Dr. Hector P. Garcia.

6Instituto de Cultura Hispanica de Corpus Christi news

09.24.2015

ISLAND WAVES

by HALEY MARTINEZ contributing writer

N

ineteen flags stand proudly against a window of the historic 1905 Lichenstein house.

Surrounded cabinets containing a multitude of countless artifacts that comprise stories and traditions of Hispanic culture, the house gleams with history. Some call it a hidden treasure buried deep in the heart of Corpus Christi, but this pearl has been discovered and it has a name, the Instituto de Cultura Hispanica de Corpus Christi.

Rose Gomez, a volunteer at the museum, has devoted her free time to informing the community about the history of the Hispanic culture.

She has taken the time to explain more about what the Instituto has to offer.

In 1976 a board of members gathered together and discussed the importance of exchanging cultures from Latin America and keeping the Hispanic culture thriving in the community.

“The board consists of 19 members, each from a different country, who have all generously donated priceless artifacts that enclose stories of each country’s past,” Gomez said.

The museum holds 19 cabinets each filled with authentic artifacts and relics from all of Latin America.

“For example, we try to have a sample of each country’s currency, and luckily our members have been kind enough to donate some,” Gomez said.

The museum showcases a specific country every 3-4 months and highlights some of the main artistry that country has. The state of Oaxaca in Mexico is currently being shown.

“We have some alebrije which are little animal sculptures made from the copal trees and painted with different colors,” Gomez said. “All of the families get together and tell stories about each one.”

Another artifact the museum

proudly showcases is the Tree of Life, which stands beautifully near the fireplace from the original 1905 house. The Tree of Life tells the story of the creation of man. It tells the story by having each main event or character in one tree.

“The Tree of Life was brought over by the Spaniards who brought it to the inhabitants of Mexico, so they could teach them religion,” Gomez said. “They knew they liked pottery and candles, so they showed the inhabitants of Mexico how God created man.”

Besides teaching the community about the importance of preserving Hispanic culture, the Instituto offers scholarships that are more than $50,000 to TAMUCC and Del Mar students every year.

“We have a gala every year to raise money for the endowment scholarships, and every year we donate to those schools,” Gomez said.

“The rest of the proceeds are used to keep the facility running.”

“We like to stay active in the community. We have culture programs at the Performing Arts Center an we bring in dancers or we’ll bring in musicians so we can share our culture with the community,” Gomez said. “We also have an international dinner in May, where all the members bring in a dish that represents their country, and we share a meal.”

The museum is open TuesdaySaturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and is free to the public, but they do accept donations. Also, the museum accepts students who are in need of volunteer hours. The museum is welcome to anybody who is interested in learning more about the Hispanic culture.

“Knowing more about the Hispanic culture is important because we need to be able to share it with the next generations in order to keep the stories alive or else they will be lost,” Gomez said.

photos by HALEY MARTINEZ

The tree of life brought over by the Spaniards, was used to teach the inhabitants of Mexico about the creation of man.

Currency donated from the board member representing Ecuador.

Alebrije, which is made from the copal tree, are painted with different colors and tell stories of each artist’s past.

These dresses were worn for the traditional Mexican folklorico dancing.

Some of the flags of the countries that are represented throughout the museum.

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campus

09.24.2015

ISLAND WAVES

SOTU continued from page 1

said. “They are responding to what is going on. If they weren’t responding then the community wouldn’t be coming out here to see what’s going on or what will be going on in the future.”

This year’s SOTU provided the community and sponsors of the Island University a first-hand look at how their support is being put to use.

“We may be on our own island,” Killebrew said. “But we know that we do not stand alone.”

To see photos, tweets and more, use the hashtag: #tamuccSOTU on Twitter and Instagram to view different perspectives including behind the scene looks of the preparation for the State of the University address.

Below: Islander Pep Band members Marquis Fisher, Luis Garcia, and Monica Garcia pose for a quick photo before helping SOTU patrons find their correct table during the event.

Right: President and CEO Flavius Killebrew delivers the heart of the State of the University address which featured college highlights of students, faculty, and departments.

Photos by JAMIE FINK

Hispanic Heritage Month 2015 October 7th

September 15th

Loteria // 4:00pm–6:00pm Hector P. Garcia Plaza

Kickoff // 11:30am–1:30pm Anchor Ballroom

(Rain Location: UC Jetty Room)

September 16th

Hector P. Garcia State Holiday // 2:00pm–3:00pm // Lonestar Ballrooms B & C

September 23

Fiesta Concert // 7:30pm // PAC

October 8th

Soar Event // 10:00am–2:00pm

rd

October 9th

Read-A-Thon // 12:30pm–2:00pm

Eddy Canales Event // Afternoon

October 12th

September 29th

Hispanic Film Series // 7:00pm–9:30pm Jetty 123

Hispanic Health Fair // 9:00am–12:00pm Lonestar Ballroom

Vivan Los Niños Concert // 5:00pm // PAC

September 30th

Hispanic Film Series // 4:30pm–6:45pm Bayview 320

October 13th

Latin Dance // 5:00pm–6:30pm Hector P. Garcia Plaza

October 1st

(Rain Location: UC Jetty Room)

Poetry Reading // 2:00pm–3:00pm // Library 2nd Floor

October 21st

Chicano Movement Panel // 6:00pm–8:00pm UC Marlin

October 5 –9 th

th

Writing Display

October 6th

September 15th–October 15th

Hispanic Film Series // 7:00pm–9:30pm // Jetty 123

Mary and Jeff Bell Library Hispanic Heritage Display Hispanic Heritage Month Research Guide

hispanicheritagemonth.tamucc.edu

8

entertainment

09.24.2015

Country music ISLAND WAVES

Two bands grace Corpus Christi

by MYELEENA GONZALEZ staff writer

C

orpus Christi is a city that can never be boring. The entertainment level is sky high.

Boredom in this town does not exist as two country bands are coming to town for a concert.

The concert is set for Oct. 10 at Concrete Street Amphitheater.

The two bands that are playing in Corpus Christi are the Eli Young Band and the Casey Donahew Band. Many country bands come to town but these are special because their concerts are considered to be entertaining and unforgettable.

According to CMT.com, Casey, leader of Casey Donahew Band grew up on a farm the first few years of his life and quickly grew to love riding and team roping, a sport he still enjoys today. His grandfather, who loved to play and sing, gave Casey his first guitar growing up, but it was not until college at Texas A&M University that he first began to teach himself to play and really focused on writing songs. A big fan of ’80s and ’90s country, Casey had always admired the storytelling in the

Casey Donahew Band

songs of that period.

That era of country music has been his inspiration and has extended through his band’s music.

“Their music is exciting and I have been to one of their concerts before and let me tell you, they Eli Young Band give it their all and put on a great show,’’ said sophomore criminal justice major Nick Vela.

He said the band has been around for a long while and has had a positive effect on audiences.

“From beginning to end their concert captures your attention,” Vela said. “I honestly can not wait to see them in concert again, and I would not mind seeing them many times after October 10th.”

Eli Young Band started packing clubs and stadiums and became a brotherhood rather than just a band.

According to TasteofCountry.com, Mike Eli and James Young met at the University of North Texas where they were dorm roommates their

photo courtesy of EventBrite.com

freshman year. They played guitar and eventually began writing and singing songs together. They formed the acoustic duo, Eli & Young, while attending the University of North Texas.

Chris Thompson and Jon Jones joined them later on and they became the Eli Young Band. The unity between the band is very defined and strong. They have worked hard to get to this point and are enjoying their current success the same way they earned it together.

Freshman geology major Gordon Danchak said he didn’t know they were coming to town.

“Now that I know I am going,” he said.

The band is most famous for their inspirational song lyrics and the connection those song lyrics have to real-life situations. Danchak is interested in Eli Young Band and his favorite song by them happens to be, “Even if it Breaks Your Heart.”

“I have seen them in concert at Floores Country Store in Helotes, Texas,” Danchak said. “I thought that they sounded excellent and there was a really good and positive vibe from them as well as the crowd. It is a really good time.”

The concert will start at 6 p.m. and will end when the bands run out of a playlist. The show will send anyone back to old country and one will not want the night to end after all the fun.

photo courtesy of MerrellCenter.org

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entertainment

09.24.2015

ISLAND WAVES

Selena helped display Hispanic heritage

by SAMANTHA MAHLER contributing writer

S

tudents of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi often wish to be successful however they do not always believe they have the ability to reach their goals.

It is sometimes difficult to believe that real life celebrities originated from humble backgrounds.

Corpus Christi is no stranger to birthing larger-than-life stars, including those of Hispanic heritage. During this month of celebration one must remember the woman who is famously known as the “Queen of Tejano music”.

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the youngest of three children, was born to Abraham and Marcella Quintanilla on April 16, 1971. Natives of Lake Jackson, Texas the family soon relocated to Corpus Christi and began the family business. Known as Selena Y Los Dinos, the Quinanillas traveled the state of Texas performing as a Tejano group with Selena as the lead singer, according to the Q Productions website.

In 1984, Selena Y Los Dinos released their first record, entitled “Mis Primeras Grabaciones” under Freddie Records, which is still located in Corpus Christi to this day. The band soon developed mainstream success.

In 1993, Selena’s father, Abraham, founded the esteemed entertainment company Q-Productions in Corpus Christi. The business is still under operation to this day and is targeted towards rising Latin stars.

However, it was apparent that the world wanted less of Los Dinos and more of Selena. She soon became a solo artist and easily broke into the male-dominated Tejano genre which was a feat that was almost unheard of at a time when women were still expected to be a housewife while their husbands were the breadwinners.

Selena swept the nation with her energetic dance numbers and bold outfit choices, regularly performing in outfits that barred her stomach. TIME magazine referred to Selena as “Madonna without the controversy”, as she was not-

photo courtesy of DAILYNEWS

ed for her devotion to her family and philanthropic efforts, many of which were located in her home state of Texas.

Selena was a Grammy multinominee and won the Grammy for Best Mexican/American Album in 1993 for her album SELENA LIVE! She also won numerous notable awards, including 36 Tejano Music Awards and 13 Billboard Latin Music Awards.

On March 31, 1995 Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was tragically murdered at the young age of 23 here in Corpus Christi, Texas.

The response to her murder has been compared to the likes of Elvis Presley and John F. Kennedy.

Her death can be credited to the birth of People En Espanol, which began after a People magazine memorial edition of Selena sold an outstanding number of issues.

It has been speculated that before her death, Selena was in the works of releasing her first English album. Her album, ‘Dreaming of You’, which was released after her death, gave further proof of her intentions to expand her mu-

sical works.

In the years since her death, the Tejano star’s legacy has lived on through the likes of a biographical movie staring Jennifer Lopez, a Broadway musical, the continuation of her Selena, Etc. Boutiques, and now, in the works, a lipstick collaboration with the famous makeup line, MAC. Her songs can still be found on radio stations in a variety of genres.

As her biography on the QProductions website states, “What Selena accomplished by the age of 23, others could spend a lifetime trying to achieve. For that, one cannot help but feel respect and admiration for this Corpus Christi role model that inspired and represented the hopes and dreams of millions of followers who collectively identified with her.”

Fans of Selena and those wishing to know more about the superstar can visit the Selena Museum located at 5410 Leopard St. in Corpus Christi. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4. p.m.

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Islanders volleyball clip Owls, ISLAND WAVES

by JAMIE FINK editor-in-chief

T

he Rice Owls jumped out early on the Islanders taking a 1-0 lead, but it wouldn’t be enough to beat the Islanders at home last Tuesday night.

The Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Islanders staged a come from behind victory over Rice on the first “T-Shirt Tuesday” of the year for the Islanders and in front of an electric home crowd at the Dugan Wellness Center.

TAMUCC defeated Rice 3-1 to remain undefeated at home and push them even higher on top of the Southland rankings. Rice entered the game posting an 8-2 overall record, which included a top-25 win over Colorado.

Rice jumped out early in the first set going up 8-2 early, as the Islanders were unable to pick up any kind of rotation or scheme to the Owls’ offensive attack.

Kelsee Felux, who would lead the Photos by JAMIE FINK Counter clockwise from top left: Kristyn Nicholson and Brittany Gilpin combine on a block.

Islanders Klepetka, Baresh, King, and Felux celebrate after two kills during Tuesday’s match.

Felux and Gilpin try to block a Rice kill during the third set.

Kelsee Felux records one of her match-high 19 kills.

The Islanders celebrate after rallying from a 1-0 defecit to defeat Rice.

Libbie Vickers and Mallory Moran prepare to celebrate on a set point.

extends win streak to five Islanders with 19 kills on the night tried to ease the blow in first set my cutting at the Owls lead, but it just was not enough as the Owls finished the game on an 11-6 run and dominate the Islanders 25-14.

After a brief intermission and a rowdy head coach, Graystone was able to light a spark underneath the Islanders for the rest of the match.

The Islanders came out in the second set much more aggressive and alert ready to push the tempo and pick up a defining win on the season.

The Islanders were lead by Felux and Ivy Baresh who racked up 19 and 15 kills respectively throughout the four-set match. The Islanders cruised to a victory in the second set picking up the win 25-15.

With the match knotted at one set apiece, the Islanders looked to continue their dominance from the second set and stay undefeated at home for the season.

Kate Klepetka, the reigning

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Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Week, came up big once again for the Islanders, as she racked up 28 digs during the match to lead the way defensively for the Islanders. Baresh and Hailey King also contributed defensively for the Islanders as they added 32 digs to the teams 89 total.

Statistically, the Owls beat the Islanders on the night in hitting percentage and blocks. The Islanders never faltered, however, riding the momentum from an impressive second set and a boisterous home crowd to take the final two sets 2519 and 27-25.

The Islanders return to action in the Dugan Wellness Center on Sept.

24 when they take on Southeastern Louisiana University in their first conference home game of the season.

For more information regarding Islanders volleyball, visit www.goislanders.com.

ISLAND WAVES

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ISLAND WAVES

Hispanic culture kept alive through family, tradition

by MYELEENA GONZALEZ staff writer

H

ispanics have a very strong believing of culture. The most important things in the Hispanic heritage are culture and family. Family is very important and comes before anything else.

Big families are very proper in the Mexican culture.

The United States gets to connect with Mexico and Hispanics a little bit every year. Hispanic Heritage Month began Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 15.

During this month the Hispanic community has the opportunity to express and be recognized for their beliefs. Other races and ethnicities get to see the way Hispanics celebrate certain holidays and even the kind of food they eat.

Almost every holiday has a certain outfit that is worn by Hispanics to represent their culture and their broad beliefs.

Last week on Sept. 16 was a Mexican holiday called Dieciseis de Septiembre, which means the 16 of September. It is celebrated every year because that is the day Mexico won their independence.

Every year on Sept. 16 little girls, teenage girls and even older women wear a red, white and green dress to represent the colors of the Mexican flag. The dress is worn with sandals and a hair updo. Girls and women wear artificial flowers in their hair as well to represent the Mexican culture.

The celebration includes a yell at midnight with all the people and is called El Grito. The holiday is very special to Mexico and it is their biggest celebration. Parties start at midnight and do not end until midnight the next day.

Another holiday in Mexico is on Nov. 1-2 of every year. The name of the holiday is Dia de Los

Muertos, which translates to the The Day of the Dead.

Mexican families celebrate the death of their loved ones rather than morn. They take all of their lost loved one’s favorite foods to their grave and believe that their lost one will consume the food.

Music is played and the families camp out at the cemetery.

On the night of Nov. 1, there is a big festival and parade through Mexico with clowns and Mexican food. People paint their faces as skulls and wear skull costumes.

Every place in the city is decorated with black decorations. All candies are shaped into skulls and colorful flowers. A yellow flower symbolizes the dead in Mexico so flower petals are scattered all over town.

Hispanics take a pride in any and every costume used for a holiday or celebration. There is an important holiday that is called, Cinco De Mayo. The translation of the holiday is just The Fifth of May. Folklorico dances are danced on the streets of Mexico. Parties are all over and long Mexican dresses are worn. Boys and men dress up with boots, slacks, and very big hats. Mexican music is played full blast and sung in unity.

Other races are bias and stereotypical on Mexicans or Hispanics. Hispanic Heritage Month is on month every year that other cultures get to see the Hispanic culture through the eyes of a Hispanic.

All food and drinks unique and different from what the U.S. is used to. In fact even the hot chocolate in Mexico is different, as it is definitely not powdered.

Hispanics see the world a certain way and this month is a great opportunity for others to realize that.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ACHIEVE PARTNER

Photo courtesy of TAMUCC FLICKR Dancers in traditional Hispanic attire perform during Hispanic Heritage Month.

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