Issue 3-23-17 by The South Texan

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TheSouthTexan

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

SOUTHTEXANNEWS.COM

VOLUME 91, ISSUE 20

Chancellor to star in venom center video

NNTRC among nation’s top toxin research facilities Darcy Ramirez Contributor

National Natural Toxins Research Center (NNTRC) at Texas A&M University-Kingsville is ful-

filling processes and some students may be unaware of the activities they perform. Elda Sanchez, the Executive Co-Director of the NNTRC explained that, “The NNTRC mission for many years has been to conduct research, provide proper research training, produce venom, and venom products to researchers worldwide.” The NNTRC does all of this because they understand that their analysis and attained knowledge could lead to important scientific or medical discoveries. These discoveries could then lead to drugs

or medical substances that can explain how cells function and also how they are affected by venom molecules. The Marketing and Communications Department commented that, “For many decades the NNTRC program has been substantially growing and flourishing, and as you know it’s one of the best toxin research facilities in the country.” The NNTRC is the only federally-funded viper resource center in the United States, and was designated a center in March of 2000 by Texas A&M Board of Regents. During recent weeks there has

been talk of a video involving the NNTRC that Chancellor John Sharp would be starring in. The video shows Sharp, and Sanchez talking about the future of the research center, and how the program supplies students with opportunities especially targeted at undergraduates, and how they can become trained in research studies. The research training of undergraduates gives the students the necessary skills, and knowledge that will accredit them into substantial graduate schools. Sanchez also stated that the reason behind Chancellor Sharp’s appearance in

the NNTRC video is to, “highlight the centers in the A&M system.” Sharp’s visit was organized and staged in order to enhance the importance of the NNTRC. His presence is believed to increase the attention and enact an understanding of the research center given his significant position and role. Despite obtaining information regarding Sharp’s purpose and the goal of the video the release date has not been officially determined. But it has been hinted that the debut will probably occur during this Spring semester.

State Senate education budget evolves Kaitlin Ruiz Contributor

An amendment to the Texas Senate’s proposed version of an appropriations bill raises cautious hope amid remaining obstacles for Texas A&M University-Kingsville. As the state legislature continues to form its own versions of the state budget for fiscal years 2018-2019, institutions of higher education have been steadied for losses in funding. Nevertheless, the malleable nature of these processes was highlighted by a March 15 change of tack within the Senate Finance Committee in an attempt to lessen the severity of budget cuts for smaller, regional universities such as TAMUK, and to distribute the weight of cuts more even-handedly. An initial take on the working version of Senate Bill 1 (SB1) would have assigned TAMUK a 37 percent cut in funding, in part by eliminating 100 percent of special item appropriations for public universities in Texas. The stripping of these funds would have outed the university $15 million, paired with a projected $11 million reduction in formula-driven General Revenue (GR) funding over the next biennium. However, the Senate Finance Committee’s March 15 measures, which were

approved by a 15-0 vote, are intended to make coming cuts in funding more manageable. In this instance, TAMUK would see a 10-percent decrease in special items funding, or about $1.5 million. When paired with a potential loss of general revenue funds, the updated version introduces TAMUK to a 19 percent budget cut for the next biennium. This is more comparable to the House’s attempt at a budget bill, HB6, which is presently measuring a 17-percent cut in state funding for TAMUK. By providing support to student success and research, special items appropriations have helped TAMUK cultivate a culture of excellence. The Weslaco Citrus Center, Cesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Conner Museum, Vet Tech Program, PhD Program in Environmental Engineering, King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management, and the South Texas Archives are all dependent on such funds. Additionally, Institutional Enhancement Funding that supplies salaries to faculty members also falls beneath the domain of special items. President Steven Tallant addressed the crucial importance of these funds for TAMUK before the Senate Finance Committee in Austin on Jan. 25, explaining: “We understand and anticipated

the formula funding cuts. However, the complete dissolution of special items was unexpected, and we cannot absorb that level of loss.” Although efforts to alter SB1 have the potential to aid in easing losses at TAMUK, a challenge remains in formula funding. Special items are on one side of the coin when it comes to state money at universities; however, at this stage of development, both the Senate and the House have TAMUK’s main financial gap coming from formula-driven general revenue money, which is allocated based on a university’s enrollment growth and semester credit hours. Enrollment numbers have begun to plateau after a period of growth at TAMUK. The creation of the upcoming state budget is by no means torpid; eventually, both the House and Senate will have their proposals reconciled. It is unclear if the Senate’s recent revisions to SB1 will hold; they may be subject to change in a session that does not conclude until May 29. According to Chief Financial Officer Raajkumar “Raaj” S. Kurapati, “Regardless of what the cuts are, we will make sure we have the appropriate pathways to serve our students.” “[Tallant] has made it clear to all of us that we will serve our students, we will figure out a way.”

5TH YEAR - HOLI “FESTIVAL OF COLOURS”

Graphic by Pablo Villanueva

Photos by Pablo Villanueva

The festival of colours celebrates the victory over evil, the arrival of spring, end of winter. Where individuals can meet friends, laugh, and play. For everyone to participate. Hosted by: International Student Organization and Association of Indian Students through the Office of Student Activities, now called the Javelina Student Engagement Center “It’s colorful and it’s beautiful weather. We’re enjoying this and it brings in the whole festival and the blooming of flowers and celebrating Spring,” said Elizabeth Lawerence, the first picture on the left.

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Guerrero honored at YWCA banquet

Bobby Puentes Reporter

Dr. Dolores Guerrero, college of arts and sciences dean, was recognized by the Y Women in Careers Awards (YWCA) for the success and achievements acquired through her professional career and community involvement, March 1. Representing one of eight recipients this year, Guerrero is a part of the 37th class to be recognized by the YWCA annual banquet. A total of 268 women have been honored through the years. The YWCA banquet acknowledges and recognizes professional, successful woman in their fields who strive to make positive differences in the community. “It’s recognizing the contribution that woman make in our society and in the world and to really empower others to go forward,” Guerrero said. Raised in the small town of Alice and being the first to graduate in her family, Guerrero is aware and ap-

COURTESY PHOTO

Dr. Dolores Guerrero was recognized by the YWCA for her professional success.

preciates the importance of education and positive role models in one’s life. After a successful career in social work, Guerrero switched occupations but kept the same passion of “service for others” that helped her keep progressing. Guerrero utilizes events like the Y Woman in Careers banquet to “pay it forward” for the opportunities she has

received through her life. “I’ve come to understand I have a passion to make a difference. I think that we make a difference one person at a time and in society caring and giving to others is a positive move,” Guerrero said. The YWCA adopted a mission statement in 2009 of “Eliminating racism, empowering woman and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.” When asked why Guerrero was selected the YWCA President/CEO Nancy Wesson-Dodd replied, “Dr. Guerrero is a highly accomplished professional who has moved from a career in social work to a career in higher education. In both professions, she has excelled and empowered other women to find their place in the world. The YWCA is pleased to honor Dr. Guerrero as a Y Woman in Careers Honoree. She is an exceptional role model for women and girls--about the value of goal setting, hard work, focus, decision-making and change.”

A taste of culture TAMUK hosts international potluck

America Quintero Reporter

Spring break may be over, but the spring season has only just begun. March 20 marked the first day of spring for 2017. The arrival of spring is significant across various cultures, as it represents the renewal and prosperity of a new year. Texas A&M University-Kingsville welcomed spring with an international evening of food and music. Students gathered at Mesquite Groove for a potluck of cultural cuisines and evening festivities. The TAMUK Office of Student Activities hosted the international potluck as part of their Springfest Spectacular Event. The potluck is only the first of many activities that are held at the week long celebration. The events reflect the traditions of the Holi festival, a celebration that is traditional to many Indian cultures. Traditionally, the Holi festival is a colorful event that is held every spring. It brings family, friends, and people from various backgrounds together. It marks the end of winter and spiritually separates the good from the bad. On the evening before the Holi festival, people gather around a bonfire to celebrate the victory of virtue over evil. The bonfire ceremony is commonly referred to as the Holika Dahan. To the dismay of attending students, the bonfire was canceled due to bad weather conditions. According to Ajinkya Pawar, President of the Association of Indian Students, the fire department had originally allowed the bonfire to be set. However, the wind conditions did not allow for a safe and open bonfire. Even though the bonfire was canceled, students were still welcomed to the potluck.

There, students enjoyed a wide range of dishes such as fried rice, samosa, brownies, laddo, pizza and much more. The food represents the tradition of several cultures, including America, Thailand, India, and Mexico. The potluck brought many people who were curious to learn about different cultures and international foods. Amber Mendez, a sophomore majoring in animal sciences, attended the potluck to gain a better understanding of a different culture. “It’s very interesting to see what everyone brings and what other people like. The fun part is learning what other people’s culture is and having them explain what they do and what it means,” Mendez said. Other students, such as Natasha Lara, a junior majoring in Spanish, said that they enjoyed the food and were delighted to try new dishes. “It opens mines to different kinds of multicultural experiences because this is not something we have every day,” Lara said. Lara, along with many students, such as Crystal Arredondo who is majoring in Education, explained that they were not disappointed about the bonfire. They were glad to have been given the chance to meet new people and are looking forward to the festivities held throughout the Springfest Spectacular Event. The potluck ended with a variety of vocal performances from volunteer students. Songs were sung in the language native to the students’ culture. Pawar has hopes that the event continues to go on for future years. He introduced the idea of a potluck to the Office of Student Activities and is looking forward to increasing the traditions of the Holi festival.

Tips and Sips Retreat talks health, safety

Alex Guerra Chief Reporter

“I decorated a flowerpot, got a massage, and I made an inspirational rock…it says ‘flabbergasted’…that’s my favorite word,” said Sarah Bennett, biomedical sciences major. One of the sessions featured Keynote speaker, Kathy Loedler, former FBI Special Agent and Founding CEO of Rampart Group LLC. Loedler, no stranger to high-risk situations, shared in her Safety 101 session how her experiences as a trained operative shaped how aware she is of her environment. She shared tips to help students stay safe in social settings and who to contact when in an

The aroma of sweet smelling sugar scrubs, eye-catching manicures, and flower pens filled the Texas A&M University-Kingsville ballroom as students ventured from station-to-station, pampering themselves and learning about women’s health. The Student Photo by Alex Guerra Health and WellFree manicures and DIY sugar scrubs ness Center hosted were given at the Women’s Retreat. the seventh annual Women’s Retreat, where students have the opportunity to fill emergency. up on refreshments and attend seminars. The phrase, ‘Trust your Gut’ was repeat“I’m glad this retreat happened. It helps edly mentioned to encourage the audience with the stress right before finals,” said Carle to not second guess themselves and take Straube. action. The ‘Run-Hide-Fight’ method was Lecturers included faculty members from also demonstrated to portray how no one is the Student Health and Wellness Center and helpless and can be a force to reckon with. TAMUK staff. “I think its it’s a good way its really nice The seminars covered topics of personal way to help us relax. The best part was the empowerment, safety survival skills, finanmassage! It was heaven for five minutes,” cial power, and creating balance in personal said Harshitha and Tanishka Guduru, bioand work environments. medical sciences majors.

SOUTHTEXANNEWS.COM

S Y LV I O

Sylvio follows the life of Sylvio Bernardi, a debt collecting gorilla with a passion for his puppet shows. He is sent to collect a debt from Al Reynolds (Kentucker Audley) but after a misunderstanding, ends up on his local afternoon talk show. Through the show they grow closer together but soon are thrown into a predicament where Sylvio has to choose between keeping up appearances for the sake of the show or standing up for what wants to do with his life.

Courtesy Photo by Brigaide Marketing TOP: Sylvio walking towards to what could be his final performance BOTTOM: Sylvio Burnardi (left) and Kentucker Audley as Al Reynolds (right) driving after going through a tough experience together.

#SXSWrestleCircus: The Next Big Thing Frankie Cardenas Managing Editor The independent professional wrestling circuit has an atmosphere all its own, and the various talent, fans, and venues create their own dazzling effects under as little spotlight as possible. Being a tried-and-true wrestling fan myself, experiencing wrestling on a larger scale has been a staple of my life as long as I can remember. However, as I have gotten older, I have noticed a sad truth and rude awakening: With the product ever changing in World Wrestling Entertainment and becoming a more family oriented soap opera catered more to the oldest and youngest fans of the company, indie wrestling is the lone place for fans who love it in its purest form. Considering my age at this present moment and time, attending South by Southwest was somewhat difficult considering most of the clubs and bars housing artists had age requirements exceeding my own. Nevertheless, I opened my music festival booklet of the events happening through the week, and upon plotting my days, I happened to stumble upon “Wrestlecircus: Live Pro Wrestling w/ Matt Hardy, Matt Riddle, Brian Cage, Sammy Guevara, Jeff Cobb, & more.” All at once, I knew of the only thing I wanted to do that week. Four days, twenty hours later, and I am seated front and center at my first show for Austin, Texas very own “Wrestlecircus: #SXSWrestling,” held at Emo’s rock club. The card was stacked from top to bottom with talent from Ring of Honor Wrestling, Lucha Underground and a few other men and women simply trying to make a name for themselves. The night began with a few wrestlers from America’s Academy of Professional Wrestling, a training facility run in Austin for aspiring athletes looking to break into the business. Two pinfalls, and an hour later, the main card would begin with the Texas Rising Stars, a battle between Barrett Brown and Terrale Tempo. The finish is what inserted drama into the bout, and what could be the seed planted for an eventual rematch between the two. Brown grabbing onto the trunks of Tempo may have solidified him as a heel for the promotion going forward, as he took to twitter stating, “[Wrestle Circus] definitely lived up

to the hype. I look forward to keeping my momentum alive after a successful #debut at #SXSWrestleCircus.” The contest to follow would be a threeway contest between Fred Yehi, Curt Stallion, and “Unholy” Gregory James, a match in which Yehi was the victor. The match would do it’s best to incite fan interaction, as it was the first fight that had more than a few profane words thrown around a time or two, which got the crowd pumped up for the remainder of the nights matches which held implications for future matches to be held in the tent. Ricky Starks and Aaron Solow, A.K.A Extra Talented, would team with “Dirty” Andy Dalton, to tackle The Boys (Dalton Castle’s Boys from ROH) and Jordan Len-X in the match to follow. This was one of the more confusing matches of the night, although it was announced the winners would become number one contenders for the tag team titles, as well as the Wrestle Circus Sideshow championship, there were more persons in and out of the ring than one would have anticipated. Interference came a plenty in the form of Shane Taylor, who would take out the Boys in the middle of the match and somehow become Jordan Len-X’s partner; as well as the Trashman attacking Len-X towards the conclusion of the match, garbage can in hand, which resulted in a hardcore matchup going on between the two at the next Wrestle Circus show, “Battle at the Big Top.” In the end, Extra Talented would be next in line for the tag championships, and Dalton is next in line at a shot for a title that’s around the waist of about 19,000 internet personnel, but that will be addressed later in this review. The extracurricular activities following the match would leave one assuming that Jordan Len-X could have a hand in the future Sideshow title match, considering Dalton’s assault on him was in such a ruthless manner. Next on the docket, “Texas Lion” Houston Carson would throw down with Davey Boy Smith, Jr. A quick match aided by a few dirty tricks that would allow Carson to take advantage for the win. Short, sweet, and simple grudge match to say the least. The next match, would tell a better story. Current Lady of the Ring Champion Rachael Ellering would then defend her title against Tessa Blanchard in what many consider to be a strong contender for match of the night. The fight would be spent far more outside of the ring, than within the squared circle.

South by Southwest (SXSW) had a variety of ac the opportunity to attend the series and see som music from Lil Wayne, Jimmy Eat World, Eli Youn others. The film festival showcased amazing film laughed at Ian Edwards, Mark Norman The women would spill out as far as the entrance ramp, diving into the crowd, and even included a spot where Ellering put a big boot into Blanchard’s face while she had a seat in MY chair. Needless to say, it was one of my favorite matches of the night, as Ellering held her head high, retaining the belt after planting Blanchard into the mat and getting the three count. What’s next for the title? Ellering will defend her title once again facing off with Taya Valkyrie on Apr 30. Jax Dane would beat Jeff Cobb in the next bout as the two giant humans would display athleticism that would rival anybody within their own weight class. A fun, ruthless battle with evenly matched men, and a great placeholder for the match to follow. The next contest would be for the Sideshow Championship, which oddly enough under it’s 24/7 match rules, thanks to Joey Ryan “submitting” to Jervis Cottonbelly on a video released on Youtube, and Cottenbelly clicking “submit” on subreddit /r/Squared Circle, began with the title in the hands of over 19,000 reddit users who are subscribed to the page. So who wrestles for the title, you may ask? Easy. The same man who shared it with the Wrestle Circus family!

Jervis Cottenbelly would defend the title against both and Joey Ryan. A gimmick ridden match, outside the ring, and ultimat users retaining their brass rin How does Wrestle Circus match with possibly the mos seen? By bringing in, possibl across the wrestling world as “DELETE! DELETE! DEL mouths of the entire venue, a off against Colt Cabana. The current ROH wrestler once again was driven more wrestling itself. At one point Cabana into the turnbuckle w bulk of the blow. That would allow for Lev Nero, to come down the entr grabbing the victory and “de John Morrison would the ring and challenge local favo Guevara to determine who w

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Courtesy photo by quietkidsmusic.bandcamp.com

cts performing during Spring Break. We had me of our favorite acts up close. This included ng Band, Lewis Del Mar, Kate Nash, and many ms--Sylvio made a lasting impression on us. We nd and Al Madrigal. Unitl next year! represent all of reddit and former champs, Scorpio Sky,

, still had some perks in and tely resulted in the reddit ng. follow up such a great st fan interaction I’ve ever ly the hottest superstar s we know it. LETE!” was belting out of the as Broken Matt Hardy faced

rs had a decent fight which by it’s gimmicks, than the t, Broken Matt irish-whipped with the referee receiving the

va Bates, acting as Sister rance ramp and aid Hardy in eleting” Cabana. en take to the Wrestle Circus orite and rising star Sammy would be the next man up to

challenge for the Ringmaster Championship title. This was another match of the night, as both Guevara and Morrison were simply flying around the ring in “don’t blink or you’ll miss it,” fashion. From a breath-taking shooting star press and 450 splash from Guevara, to Morrison’s usual corkscrews and rotating kicks, the men put on a fireworks display. Considering Guevara’s prowess, and his increasing popularity among locals, this isn’t his final stop at climbing to the top. But first, Morrison must beat someone for it. The Ringmaster Championship title would be up for grabs, as Matthew Riddle attempted to pry the strap away from “The Machine” Brian Cage. A good technical match had both men looking strong throughout the contest. However, the champ maintained control and after a long slug fest, was able to keep his title. After the night, Brian Cage versus John Morrison will be the headline fight for the Ringmaster Championship come Apr. 30 in Austin. I for one, could not have enjoyed myself any more. Honestly, it was one of the greatest experiences of my life.

5 ON THE SCENE The South Texan had the wonderful opportunity to visit Austin during the Spring Break for South By Southwest 2017. A festival with a variety of performances that peaked our interests. As lovers of music, films, comedy, celebrities, and television shows, we had the chance to be up close and personal with many artists. I covered music throughout the week from shows that will capture the viewers attention to shows that I wouldn’t want to miss. I was able to take pictures of Jimmy Eat World while they performed at the Pandora/

The Gatsby stage. Along with also taking pictures for Third Eye Blind, Minus the Bear, Kate Nash, and more. I met new people, some that I’ll never forget. Ate at places I’ve never been to and loved it all. Sang along to music at the top of my lungs because the music environment was made for me. Most importantly, enjoyed working with friends. At the end of the day our feet hurt but we got up and did it all again for a whole week. It’s good to know that we were all able to work and play at the same time.

I remember a time when I used to think to myself, “Oh man, you really don’t do anything do you?” Boy, was I wrong. Being able to experience SXSW has been not only an honor and privilege, but a blessing I never thought I’d be able to experience in my life. Being there as a spectator I’m sure would be one thing, but being lucky enough to work as a member of the press was the greatest honor I could ask for other than being an artist at the festival. From experiencing the life on the streets of Austin,

to witnessing major bands from the pit for photographers, and networking with people from across the country, I could not have had a greater experience. Listening to the stories and struggles of the others in this field had me both scared yet excited for everything that I have in store for me in the future. Seeing wrestlers, and musicians from my childhood made the trip so much more worth the fatigue I had experienced, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I hope I can attend the festival every year for as long as I am able to be in this business.

Spending my spring break behind a camera rather than at the beach is a dream come true. I always look for opportunities to gain more experience in photography and videography so when I applied for press accreditation for South by Southwest and got approved, it was surreal. Such an amazing and giant event like this is an ideal proving ground for me. I want to be submerged into the real world because, I feel, it is where I

learn the best. Having that press pass and being able to be front and center for pretty much any event I wanted to see was all I want from a career. I learned a lot about the flow of live photography and enjoyed every minute of it. I for sure want to return next year and keep adding to my portfolio while having fun. I don’t want to work a day in my life and when I’m looking through a viewfinder, the world is shaped into what I desire.

Editor-in-Chief Thank you to SXSW, our advisors, and the crew for making this possible. Until next year!

Managing Editor This first experience is one I will never forget, and I cannot wait for the years to come.

Online Editor

San Antonio, TX

Corpus Christi, TX

KP tha Profit Question Third Root Darkness Divided Izaq Roland P2THEGOLDMASK Lisa Morales Creepside HouseofKenzo Jarrell Nina Diaz Ghostpizza Worldwide

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McAllen, TX Quiet Kids DeZorah

Listen Local Crystal Zamarron Editor-in-Chief Big known bands weren’t the only ones at South By Southwest 2017. Various artists had the chance to perform at one of the hundreds of venues. The South Texan put together a list of locals bands that surround the Kinsgville area that performed at this week long event. Nearby DJ from Corpus Christi performed twice at SXSW where many heard his popular hits like K Le Pasa, Trapanera, and Cumbia Anthem. El Dusty will

be back to Corpus Christi to perform at this years’ Fiesta De La Flor event for the second time at the Selenas Silent Disco both days, March 24-25, to honor Selena Quintanilla Perez, the Queen of Tejano. Dusty was nominated for a Latin Grammy last year for his song Cumbia Anthem featuring Happy Colors. Previously performing at SXSW since 2014, the Quiet Kids from McAllen, Texas are no stranger to the Austin stage. Andy Peña does all instruments, vocals, mixing and artwork for his

band. Already been touring with many other local bands playing his hits The War, Run Along, and No Place to Hide. Just like buying local, SXSW is big on listening to local. Especially those that are close to our region. The South Texan (TST) was unable to attend all shows due to many showcases times. TST wanted to show TAMUK the local bands that will one day be headlining.

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017 SOUTHTEXANNEWS.COM

Opinion

World Cup 2022: Migrant Workers Wanted Dakota Roberts Editorial Editor Before Spring Break, we published a column on the World Cup and the harms of holding the event in Russia. For the second half of that issue we turn to the choice that has already cost people’s lives: Qatar. The state of Qatar is a peninsular Arab state that has become one of the richest in the world; when you factor in income per capita, Qatar even leads ahead of Saudi Arabia. That’s what happens when a country the size of Connecticut lies on top of the third largest oil reserve in the world. So why is it so bad to hold the biggest soccer competition in the world there? According to the British tabloid the Daily Mirror, nothing. Writer Sam Matterface last month wrote an article under the belief that the 2022 World Cup has the potential of becoming the greatest one to ever be held. He discusses the beautiful, culturally-rich cities, the clean air, “the newness of everything.” Now I’m not saying that I am taking the opinion of a tabloid writer personally, but he is speaking a lot like FIFA vice president Victor Montagliani

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who stated, “[Russia and Qatar are] the best thing that happened in football.” And that language is so irritating when you really hear about the problems. First, let’s look at the cost. The Brazil World Cup cost nearly $11 billion, making it one of the most expensive tournaments in the world. Qatar’s World Cup is being estimated to cost $220 billion in total; nearly 20 times the cost of the previous tournament. The costs mainly come from extreme infrastructure planning over the next few years, most of the work is to be completed by workers that are not from Qatar. Back in October and November, FIFA faced the Swiss legal system over the treatment of migrant workers in Qatar. The charges were raised the Netherlands Trade Union Confederation. Before the end of 2016, Qatar recruited workers from other surrounding countries through the use of the Kafala system. Around 1.2 million foreign workers are recruited in Qatar; spanning from countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and even the Philippines. There are so many foreign employees in Qatar then there are citizens

of Qatar; a ratio of nearly 5:1. The way the system worked was very archaic. If I were an Indian construction worker I could request sponsorship to move to Qatar in the hopes of increasing my wages. The company that sponsored me did not hire me, simply put me in contact with private companies in Qatar. That company then become my in-country sponsor, who is in charge of my visa and my legal status. The government of Qatar

does not regulate any of this, I am now completely at the whims of my employer. Say that I am now in Qatar and working on one of the brand-new World Cup stadiums. I cannot head back home without permission from my employer, who on average makes me work 10 hour days in 110-degree heat, withholds my pay, and can even have me arrested. Amnesty reports state that more than a thousand people have died since the

beginning of construction and that by the end 5,000 more will follow. Now Qatar has changed the dates to winter to avoid the heat for players and has gotten rid of the Kafala system this year, but has not repealed the clause that gives power to these employers. So, an ungodly expensive tournament is being held in a place that works people to death, is too hot to play the game, has laws against members of the LGBT community (members who will

compete in these games), and has a desert climate that is so poor for the sport, it makes it obvious that FIFA did something wrong here.

DeVos seeks to bestow is related to what has been a banner for her in criticizing education in the United States: choice through the use of school vouchers. Drawn from taxpayers’ funds, vouchers like the kind DeVos is backing have been described as coupons or scholarships. Under a voucher system, students retain the tax-paid funds for education that benefit those enrolled in state public schools; however, families would receive the option of deciding how to allocate these funds. Rather than feeling locked into a particular school district, those under a voucher system could opt to

send their child to a private or parochial school with the money that would otherwise have supplied a public education. In this way, as DeVos and the voucher system’s proponents have held, students and those who care for them are entitled to a thing of power: choice when it comes to where and how a child is educated. While attempting to involve parents and families in making decisions related to education is by no means negative, it is our view that the voucher system touted by DeVos and Trump is not without its pitfalls. The hazards of school-choice rhetoric are real, especially

for low-income communities and those in failing school districts. Directing pupils away and diverting funding from public institutions does not deal with the larger need for education reform to bastion them. Rather, it supplies a bandage of sorts on an individual basis—one that has not been proven to outperform traditional public schools. Rather than focusing on replenishing school districts that have been weakened through a lack of resources, a voucher system like that promoted by DeVos encourages one to jump ship and select another institution— without considering that for

some students, especially those in low-income or rural areas, there is no platform to land on. A scarcity of schools in these places eliminates the idea of school choice for students, while also failing to support the needs of their existing public schools. While the thought of choice might be enchanting, it does not well take into account the context of these students. Indeed, by calling one institution a thing of quality while dismissing the other as being in disrepair, plans for a national voucher program ignore something else. According to a Feb. 28 report from the Economic Policy Institute,

students who have received state-funded vouchers to private or charter schools have not been shown to outpace their public school contemporaries in standardized testing. “Together,” DeVos concluded in her speech at CPAC, “we can make American education great again. The next generation deserves no less.” She is correct that no student deserves the short shrift. However, the greatness of education in America cannot be gathered by stripping schools and communities of their strengths for an idea of choice.

ican support to his candidacy. Donald Trump may be good for Black America in the short term however, and we should be extremely cautious when deciding if we should throw our support behind him. During his campaign, the president never went after Blacks the way he went after nearly every other demographic in the country. We all remember how he announced his run for the White House with the defamation of Mexican immigrants. His verbal attacks on the religion of Islam has not ceased since his campaign days, and the things he’s said about women are just deplorable. Besides his statements about bringing law and order, and threats of implementing martial law in Chicago, which some

people refer to as “dog whistles” about the black community, he never directly made negative statements about Blacks. In fact, on the surface he seems to be going out of his way to do as much as he can for our community since he’s been in office. He changed the name of Black History Month to National African American History Month in an attempt to be all-inclusive, even though he bumbled his speech on black history by sounding as if he thought that Frederick Douglas was still alive and doing great things. He signed an executive order within his first 100 days that moved the initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities out of the Department of Education back to the White House. This move was designed to

help HBCU’s by giving them the power of being backed by the White House, thus aiding in the progression of their agendas. He appointed an African American neurosurgeon, Dr. Ben Carson to his cabinet… to run Housing and Urban Development. Not to serve as Surgeon General, but to run HUD. At least the man is trying, right? (Sigh) This is all part of his urban agenda. The problem is, just like with the rest of his agendas, no one quite knows what it entails. There are folks who think that President Trump is only appeasing Blacks so as to one-up former president Barack Obama. It is widely opined that Obama did nothing directly substantive for the black community during the eight years that he was in of-

fice. President Trump seems to want to do everything opposite of what Obama did, therefore he can one day boast that he did more for “his” African Americans over here than the first Black president. The question is, if his efforts are not genuine, should we accept the benefits? Should we take advantage of insincere opportunities, especially when Trump is being so spiteful to other minorities? The answer is we should stick together as minorities, and not allow this administration to divide us more than we already are. To modernize the 1940’s anti-Nazi German poet Martin Niemoller’s famous writing, First They Came, if we do nothing to quell the mass deportation of Mexican immigrants, the decimation of Muslims, and the subordi-

nation of women, there will be no one left to speak for us in our time of need.

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Voucher System: Best for American Education?

Kaitlin Ruiz Contributing Writer

Since the fractious appointment and confirmation of Betsy DeVos as education secretary, discussions of American education in K-12 schools have been under-girded with the idea of choice. It played into the 2017 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Feb. 23, when DeVos outlined her place and perspective in the Trump administration; her role in the post, she explained, deals with placing “power in education back to where it belongs: with parents, communities, and states.” The power that

Donald Trump and his New Urban Agenda

Kevin Hooks Contributing Writer

“Look at my African American over here… Look at him,” cited then presidential candidate Donald Trump at a rally in 2016. In a haphazard attempt to show he had support from the black community, Mr. Trump said those words and set off a litany of angry responses from people across the country. Some said his comment was representative of slave ownership, as if “my” depicted that the African American man of whom he spoke actually belonged to him. I do not believe that the president meant it the way it was perceived. I believe he truly thought that he was expressing inclusion, and meant for the comment to bring more African AmerThe South Texan is a student publication produced by Texas A&M University- Kingsville students. The views, opinions and commentary do not necessarily reflect the views of the Texas A&M University system. The South Texan uses student fees in part to publish. The South Texan is part of the Art, Communications, and Theatre Department (ACT), The Javelina Broadcast Network (JBN), and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA).

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“First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out – Because I was not a Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out – Because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out – Because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me.”

-Martin Niemoller-

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Sports

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017 SOUTHTEXANNEWS.COM

Hogs historic season comes to an end

Trey Sumpter as he drives the lane against West Texas A&M on his way to the basket.

Courtesy Photo

Basketball team gets first post-season win in school history

Travis Demas Sports Editor @travisdemas

While reaching new heights this past season with the programs first post season win in the NCAAD2 tournament win. The Javelinas season has unfortunately come to an end, but the Hogs have reason to believe that they will be back next year. The Hogs look to proceed past that next season. A key piece in the Javelinas puzzle will be G/F Trey Sumpter, who was just recently named to the South Central All-

Tournament Team averaging 17.5 points with 4.5 rebounds per game, while shooting .611 from the field and .511 from behind the arc. Sumpter being only a junior gives the Hogs reason to believe that they will have another historic season next year, as he will be returning to play as a senior for the Hogs. When asked about his recognition this year, and being named to the All-Tournament Team Sumpter relied saying, “ I couldn’t have gotten there without my teammates and coaches pushing me everyday to be great.” The Javelinas (19-11) would

defeat the No.1 seed University of Texas of the Permian Basin (26-6) in their first game 74-71 on a buzzer beater by senior Marcus Frazier as time expired. “It felt like a movie. That will forever be the best moments of my life. At first I was just happy we won, then later as days passed. I realized how special and what it meant to the program,” said Frazier. The Hogs would advance to face the No. 3 seed West Texas A&M University (25-8) the next day in which they were defeated 97-86. Reflecting back on the sea-

son Sumpter replied “I look back on it as a success. It was a great run that had its bumps in between but we stayed together, fought through it and took the program where it’s never been before.” “It’s been a wild ride. I was with a great group of guys, and I feel at ease knowing that we accomplished something that has never been done in Kingsville. We had an amazing year, and I think we reached Hogg Heaven,” said senior Duan Wright. Next year the Javelinas will be losing five seniors including Wright and Frazier, and hope to ride their good chemistry into next

season. “ Well me knowing how great the chemistry was this year. I know that next years team chemistry is going to be twice as good,” said Wright. Sumpter, who will most likely be the Hogs focal point next year coming off his best season so far as a Javelna. Says that he is ready for the challenge and intends to work hard in the offseason to prepare. “I’m always ready for a challenge. I plan on working to become stronger, because I believe strength is a key factor. There is always room for improvement in all aspects of my game, replied Sumpter.

Courtesy Photo

Trey Sumpter brings the ball inbounds.

Cpurtesy photo

From left to right, seniors Thomas Diaz, Duan Wright, and Marcus Frazier pose for one last picture

Last Week’s Games Baseball West Texas A&M 3-11 L 0-7 3-12 L 4-9, L 0-12 Cameron 3-17 L 2-4 3-18 L 4-5, L 4-8 3-19 W 3-2

Mens Basketball University of Texas Permian Basin 3-11 W 74-71 West Texas A&M 3-12 L 64-76

Tennis North Central Texas College 3-10 W 8-1 Indiana 3-14 W 6-3 Palm Beach Atlantic 3-15 L 4-5 Florida Southern 3-17 L 0-9

THIS WEEK’S GAMES Beach Volleyball New Mexico 3-11 L 0-5 Arizona 3-12 L 0-5 Arizonia State 3-12 L 0-5 Houston Baptist 3-15 L 0-5

Baseball Beach Volleyball Tarleton New Orleans 3-24 @ Kimgsville at 6 3-24 at 1 P.M. P.M. Louisiana Monroe 3-25 at 1 P.M. & 4 P.M. 3-25 at 11 P.M. 3-26 at 1 P.M. Houston Baptist 3-25 at 5 P.M.

Tennis Softball Prairie View A&M A&M Commerce 3-25 at 2 P.M. 3-4 @ Kingsville at 6 P.M. 3-25 at 1 P.M.

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017 SOUTHTEXANNEWS.COM