The South Texan Vol. 94 Issue 7

The South Texan The Award-Winning Texas A&M University-Kingsville Student Publication

Thursday, October 17, 2019 Volume 94, Issue 7 TheSouthTexan.com

TAMUK Football

How to Adult

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Page 6

Javelinas fall after leading in the first half against Western Oregon.

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Emotional stories of honesty LGBTQ+ community shared their experiences coming out ILIANA FLORES Managing Editor Emotions ran high at the Coming Out Event hosted by Unity on Oct. 11 as students and community members laughed, cried and celebrated with each other while telling their coming out stories.

To celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month, TAMUK Unity decided to host an event on National Coming Out Day. This event allowed those who attended to hear and share coming out stories from members of the LGBTQ+ community and straight allies.

The stories told highlighted the differences in each person’s experiences, some of which were about receiving acceptance from families and friends while others told about being bullied.

Vice-president of Unity Alberto Oliveira told about how he came out to his family when he was not ready. In high school, Oliveira said his fear of being bullied kept him from coming out, and because he was not out, he did not feel he could be his true self with his friends. To express himself he would write his thoughts in journals. One weekend when Oliveira came home from college, his mother confronted him after finding one of his journals.

He was not ready to come out, but he decided that it was his moment. After that, Oliveira felt like he could start being his authentic self.

“If and when you come out there is all this weight that you didn’t know

Photo By Iliana Flores

TAMUK’s LGBTQ+ community supporting each other while sharing their stories. you had on your shoulders that ends up getting lifted off of you. Like you’re light as a feather and, literally, I felt like I was running a marathon, because I was wanting to run to everyone to finally let them know who I was,” Oliveira said.

Straight ally Trisha Garcia, a biomedical science student, told of her experience growing up with a mother who was lesbian and how that impacted her life. Garcia’s mother came out to Garcia when she was in the fifth grade.

“She came out to me at Subway. I never really hated her or anything like that, but my childhood was different,” Garcia said. “I honestly think it’s a blessing. If I hadn’t had a gay mom in a small town, I think I would have been so much more closed minded.”

Garcia spoke of a story about her mother in which she was brought to tears.

“We were going through her closet and she was getting rid of these gorgeous dresses. And I’m like ‘Mom why

are you getting rid of them? You love them so much you wore them to all my events. What’s going on?’ She’s like ‘Trish, I just wore them for you....’ it just shows how much she cared, and it sucks that she had to be uncomfortable for a little bit to make me happy in front of everybody else, even though that’s not what I wanted. It sucks that it has to be like that and that’s why

Unity continued on Page 11

Latinx students commemorate Dia de la Raza ARYSSA ENRIQUEZ Campus Editor The pen is the tongue of the soul, and the written word still carries power. Sigma Delta Pi celebrated its 8th Annual Read-out y Declamaciones on Friday, Oct.11, outside the Student Union Building. The event celebrated the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas and is known in Latin American countries as Dia de la Raza.

Students commemorated this day through literature, music and poems.

Sigma Delta Pi invited guest speaker Jonathan Honorato to recite some of his works and inform students about the meaning behind Dia de La Raza.

Honorato shared one of his poems, “Ni de aqui, ni de alla,” that expressed the message of being at a crossroads between two countries. Honorato dis-

cussed the creativity and inspiration he found while attending Texas A&M University-Kingsville and encouraged students to write.

Each year professor Dr. Marco Iniguez Alba encourages students to participate in Dia De La Raza Read-out y Declamaciones. This event features students voicing their opinions over important matters such as immigration laws and cultural identity. Students were able to recite the works from some of their favorite musicians, poets or spokesperson to commemorate the celebration of humanity in Dia de la Raza.

“It’s a day to remember that the conflict continues in the Americas. Native Americans continue to lose land, continue to lose rights and so today marks

Dia de la Raza continued on Page 11

Photo By Aryssa Enriquez

Dr. Iniguez speaks to students and guests at the Annual Read-out.

Campus

Thursday, October 17, 2019

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Javelina concert band makes music Practice, work effort made a great show MARK GUTIERREZ Reporter The music was ringing, the crowd was cheering, and the night was singing as the Concert Band and Wind Symphony performed their first concert of the semester.Many gathered around to listen to the songs that the Concert Band and Wind Symphony had been preparing since mid-August.

The seats were filled with students and parents, who listened attentively as each note was played. The concert was a way for the students to show how far they have improved with their practice.

“It was a phenomenal performance!

The students worked diligently the past seven weeks, and performed the literature at the peak of their potential,” Interim Associate Director of Band Dr. George Schrader said, “I cannot begin to describe how proud I am.

It is a true honor to collaborate with such outstanding musicians.”

The students were also thankful to be able to work with a director like Dr. Schrader. With such potential in a

Photo by Mark Gutierrez

Concert Band and Wind Symphony performing their first concert of Fall 2019. group of students, it’s the director who guides and molds their talent for presentation to the crowd.

“I think Dr. Schrader is an amazing conductor. His conducting is very expressive and exciting but also precise and calculated,” Adan Coronado, music education and jazz performance major, said “He really brings the musicality out of the ensemble.”

The students of the Wind Sympho-

ny produced a well-organized professional performance with the help of Dr. Scott Jones, director of bands. Once the concert was over it seemed like students were content with their performance.

“Afterwards I was very happy with the performance; it went better than I expected to be honest,” Jeri Taylor music performance major, said. “I think the audience probably very much en-

joyed it.”

The students practiced hard and repetitively to overcome the challenges they faced leading up to performance day. Even the concert itself proved to be a great obstacle for many students.

“This concert, it really challenged my technique. Personally, it made me push beyond what I thought I could do.” Herminio Mendez, music performance major, said.

Fowler joins Homecomming Social Workers educate TAMUK RONNI REYNA Contributing Writer Texas Country music fans should dust off their boots as Kevin Fowler is set to play the university’s Homecoming Concert at 8:30 p.m., Oct. 25, at Mesquite Grove “Kevin Fowler was a suggestion of members from the Homecoming Committee and other TAMUK students who are Texas country music fans,” Assistant Director of Student Activities Loreal Robertson said.

“His musical journey began playing in rock bands before finding his footing as a solo act in the early 2000s in his home state of Texas, where he burst onto the scene with the celebrated album ‘Beer Bait and Ammo’ - a mainstay for fans to this day,” according to Fowler’s website.

The Homecoming Committee meets each year to plan Homecoming events and activities.

“There are many processes in planning a concert,” Robertson said. “Securing the musician is step one, securing the venue, executing the contract,

contracting the sound and lights, advertising the event, and having proper security coverage just to name a few.”

Fowler has more than 190,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, 400,000 likes on Facebook and has amassed a following of more than 63,000 on Instagram.

“I know a lot of people who are excited for the Kevin Fowler concert, including myself,” Student Body President Ruben A. Martinez said. “Every year, no matter the artist, so many students and alumni show up to enjoy our homecoming concert.

“I have been a longtime fan of Kevin Fowler and many of his songs since I was young.”

According to his website, Fowler released seven additional albums over the following 14 years after “Beer Bait and Ammo,” with his most recent released on Aug. 23, titled “Barstool Stories.”

“Most definitely, I will be at the concert. I enjoy being actively involved with the student body and my peers and what better way to interact with them, than with a concert by a great music artist?” Martinez said.

Kevin Fowler performing “How Country are Ya?”

Photos courtesy of Youtube

C.R. NEAL Editor-in-Chief

Social Work students are preparing for their second annual Advocacy Day event.This event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Oct. 22 and looks to educate students on various elements of social work applications in the real world.

Social work students will be at five tables in the Student Union Building covering the topics of school social workers, sexual education in schools, suicide prevention, animal care and control and domestic violence.

Each table will have a display to highlight the cause, demonstrate the need for advocacy and have opportunities for the public to assist in the cause.

The animal care and control table will be accompanied by a representative from the Kingsville Animal Advocates, who will bring photos of animals to be adopted and maybe a few small foster dogs.

A representative from the PurpleDoor will be at the domestic violence table to discuss how they help those who have been affected by domestic violence and sexual assault.

According to thepurpledoortx.org, “We

have a team of Master’s level counselors who are available to counsel women, men and children who have been victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

“We can also assist their family members. We offer individual and group counseling in our offices or in a safe location within our service area.”

The Purple Door’s services are available to anyone who has ever been a survivor of domestic violence or sexual abuse and is always free.

The faculty advisors for this event are Associate Professor Cynthia Faulkner and BSW Program Director and Associate Professor of Practice Maria Iyescas.This is Faulkner’s second year advising for the event and is hoping even more students will get involved this time around.

“This is an opportunity for students to learn about various community initiatives, get involved and get access to resources,” Faulkner said. “I hope this information will not only be useful as a potential resource but also as an opportunity to encourage other students to become active in their community.”

There will also be a raffle for prizes during the event including two $50 gift cards. Tickets for the drawing will cost $1.

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Campus

Homecoming: “Moment in the Spotlight” Students showcase their Javelina pride in week long tradition BRENDA RIOJAS Reporter Come one, come all, it’s officially time to celebrate a longing Javelina tradition of Homecoming.

This year’s Homecoming theme is, “Moment in the Spotlight” with events beginning Monday, Oct. 21 to Saturday, Oct. 26.

Before heading over to the homecoming football game Oct. 26, be sure to celebrate the events leading up to the big day.

The week is filled with fun activities, the reunion of friendships and the crowning of this year’s Homecoming King and Queen.

“Most events during Homecoming week are on campus with the exception of the parade which takes place in downtown Kingsville. The public is invited to all our events, we enjoy seeing the community of Javelina Nation show up for support,” Ruben Martinez, student body president, said.

Javelina Nation welcomes the community to participate and showcase their Javelina pride throughout the week. To kick off the week, students

will have the opportunity to start voting for Homecoming King and Queen nominees on Monday, Oct. 21, through Blue & Gold Connection.

Sober Spirits will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22 at the Pavilion hosted by the Student Health and Wellness.

In the evening students will get to enjoy the Blue, Gold & Fame Talent Show.

“I plan to attend the talent show this year, I didn’t attend last year but I heard about all of the fun my friends had last year,” Audri Lopez, communications and science disorders student, said.

Students are highly encouraged to attend and support their fellow Javelinas.

As the week long tradition continues, students can look forward to the Fall Carnival.

Students can enjoy the Fall Carnival from 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23, on University Boulevard.

During the Fall Carnival the top five King and Queen nominees will be announced.

The Homecoming Parade is an event in which the community and the university come together and showcase their Javelina pride. The Homecoming Parade will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, in Downtown Kingsville. Students from different organizations will

be walking or riding a float to celebrate the different organizations on campus.

Following the Homecoming Parade at 7:30 p.m. in the Steinke Physical Education Center will be the Javelina Madness for the Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams.

“Javelina Madness is my favorite event because it’s tons of fun and there’s so much energy in the building. It’s like being at an All-Star game where we get to see what our team looks like this upcoming season,” Juan Perales, criminal justice student, said.

This event is popular each year and it gives students the opportunity to enjoy games and preview the basketball teams.

At 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at the Intramural Fields Complex-Parking Lot K a Hog Call will be hosted. A bonfire and fireworks (at dusk) will follow the fun at the Homecoming Concert at 8:30 p.m. at Mesquite Grove featuring Kevin Fowler.

To conclude homecoming week is the Homecoming football game against the Tarleton Texans. At halftime, the often-anticipated announcement of Homecoming King and Queen will be revealed.

Homecoming week is a week filled with tradition and fun. Students and alumni will get to show their Blue and Gold pride and enjoy a “Moment in the Spotlight.”

such as pizza, fried Oreos, nachos, turkey legs, and Javelina gear, T-shirts and more. All profit goes to help build and fund each organization.

“We chose T-shirts because the majority of other organizations will be doing food and we want to stand out and be different.

“T-shirts will attract students to build the organization as well as promote and spread the well-being of the American Advertising Federation,” Cameron Turner business major, said.

The Fall Festival offers students an opportunity to come and support each other and have a good time with friends.

“My favorite thing to do is to hang out with my friends and be a part of the Fall Festival because I’ll be with the

TAMUK Horn Society selling fried Oreos,” Beto Trevino, music major, said.

Along with the food being sold by clubs, there will also be games such as bean bag toss, moonjumps, cake walk, raffles, contests and music. The Fall Festival is a social event for students to come together and have a stress-free night from homework and studying.

The festival will also help freshmen integrate more into the Javelina community.

“I’ve personally never been but I would expect it to be a fun environment,” said Gilma Cervantes, music major.

The Fall Festival is one of the Homecoming week activities and will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23, at University Boulevard.

Fall into fun at fall festival Students enjoy a night filled with fun, food and friends GABRIELLA MASTROIANNI

Reporter

It’s October and the weather is finally getting colder, which means sweaters, pumpkin spice and the 2019 Fall Festival is right around the corner.

The Fall Festival promises fun games, food and organizations fundraising for their clubs.

So far 97 organizations have signed up to be vendors at the festival.

Most clubs will be selling food or

Expires 10-17-19 Expires 10-24-19

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Meet the Mentors

Maria R. Garcia Torres is a peer mentor at the Center for Student Success. Garcia is a senior studying Architectural Engineering, and is from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon. Here is more about her.

What are your hobbies?

I like to play tennis often, occasionally fish and golf.

What do you look forward to as a student mentor?

Seeing students that want to excel in their careers, be independent and secure their future. They’re in the same position I was two years ago, and it’s hard to know where to start.

What are your goals?

As a mentor, I want to see students come back and be more confident so they can make their decisions.

For my own career, I want to land in a MEP ( Mechanical Engineering Plumbing) design company as I work towards my Professional Engineering license and afterward look into an MBA. If you could pick an actor to play you in a movie who would it be?

Why? Gina Rodriguez, I like her acting in the roles she has received.

As a mentor what lesson do you want students to learn?

A lot of students think they need to be at a large school to be successful.

Being able to reflect the past two years, I realized that the university doesn’t make the student, but the student and faculty make the university. I also want them to learn that stuff happens, that’s how life is and they just have to keep going.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

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Opinion

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California bans fur products The South Texan The First Amendment “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for redress of grievances.”

The 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).

STAFF

C.R. Neal Editor-in-Chief Iliana Flores Managing Editor Aryssa Enriquez Campus Editor Dylan Dozier Sports Editor

MICAELA CASIO

Contributing Writer California has become the first state in our country to ban the sale of and the donation of animal fur products.

The law will go into effect Jan. 1, 2023. This ban will pave the way for more humane products that don’t depend on the killings of animals to make money. I believe that more states should follow suit.

California residents will no longer be permitted to sell or make products from fur.

These products include clothing, shoes and handbags, but not stuffed animals. This ban on fur has been a long journey for animal rights activists who can now celebrate this win.

Although the ban encompasses many items it does not apply to leather, cow hide, deer, sheep or goat skins The ban exempts any used fur and taxidermy items. Native American tribes are exempt as well with any fur taken lawfully with a hunting license.

“California is a leader when it comes to animal welfare and today that leadership includes banning the sale of fur,” California Governor Gavin Newsom said. If someone is found break-

Photo courtesy of independent news

California becomes the first state in the U.S. to ban fur products. ing the law the perpetrator could face a civil penalty fine of $500, and multiple offenses could reach to $1,000.

There may be those against the ban who say that we shouldn’t have to follow the rules that someone else makes just because they like animals more than they do.

To that I ask: what makes that animal’s life less valued than your own?

Who said that just because the animal is blessed with beautiful fur means we are entitled to wear it?

This does not mean it is an evil act to kill an animal, but where do people’s morals lie if they only breed an animal to kill it to wear their fur.

Also wearing faux fur is a viable op-

tion to real fur. There are no animals harmed in the making of the products.

Faux fur can be customized to any style that the manufacturer wants.

The faux fur products also last longer than real fur and will withstand more wear and tear.

Real requires proper storing in order to keep it in the best condition.

The Californian ban on fur could lead the rest of the country into following a more humane process of life.

More states should take the initiative that California did.

The ban of fur in California presents a solution to anmals being killed and promotes a human manner in making products.

New trend affects interaction

Jaylin Morales Advertising Manager Kelby Sprinkles Online Editor Reporters Adam Pena Brenda Riojas Sarah Reyna Gabriella Mastroianni Mark Gutierrez Sabrina Gonzalez Photographer Amanda DeFrees Podcast Host Tom Miller Nicole Morris Adviser Advertising For advertising inquiries, e-mail The South Texan at thesouthtexan@tamuk.edu or call (361) 593-4370.

Letters to the Editor Letters must be typed, signed and include a phone number. Letters considered for publication must be 300 words or fewer. Letters may be emailed to thesouthtexan@tamuk.edu The South Texan, Manning Hall 165, Texas A&M

BRENDA RIOJAS Reporter They’re everywhere. In every direction I turn whether it’s left or right, I see them. AirPods have become a huge trend, and most students seem to have them. I, too, have AirPods but do they appear to others as an everyday use or a reason to avoid peers?

Personally, I use them to workout and for long car rides. Seeing them on campus on my way to class has become an everyday item for me to see someone wear. I can’t leave my house without my phone, and some can’t leave without their AirPods.

I can agree with most that they sound similar to regular Apple earphones with the only difference being that they’re wireless. They’re convenient and fit right into your pocket, but are also so small that if you misplace them, you’ve basically lost them. With their size being one of the only downfalls having them, that still doesn’t stop people from buying them or wanting them. I’ve noticed they’re treated like

Photo courtesy of theverge.com

AirPods become fashionable and convenient. an everyday piece of clothing or an essential for some people.

I decided to wear them around campus to test how convenient they are in that environment for me. Just by removing one to talk to someone pauses my music, and once I finish my conservation and put the AirPod back into my ear, the music plays right where it left off. Being able to hear outside noise and my music was also something I liked. When someone called my name, I wasn’t too distracted by my music that I couldn’t hear them trying to talk to me. The battery life of my AirPods lasted all day at school and even with a workout later in the day, they still had charge left to them. Connecting them to my phone between classes is also

very easy and less time consuming versus untangling a wire and plugging the end into your phone.

Wearing them on campus made me feel like I blended in with the other students and they allowed for me to make small conversation with people.

My intentions are never to make small talk or avoid my friends at school, but I noticed that some only waved or said, “Hello,” maybe because they thought I preferred to listen to my AirPods rather than talk to them. So, do people crave the ownership of the sleek white look so you can add to your outfit, or do they use them to their advantage as an excuse to avoid conversation, or do they genuinely like listening to music and love the convenience they offer?

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Opinion

Thursday, October 17, 2019

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Step in reconciliation between parties

ADAM PENA Reporter Only two presidents have been formally impeached in American history: Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton, though neither was ultimately removed from office.

Richard Nixon’s impeachment proceedings had begun in October 1973 after the Watergate scandal brought light to his illegal wiretapping of members of the Democratic National Committee.

Nixon resigned before the vote could formally pass through Congress. On Sept. 24, 2019 impeachment proceedings were formally initiated against current U.S. President Donald Trump, planting him in an exclusive group of presidents who have found themselves in this position.

As reported by The Washington Post, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi began impeachment proceedings against Mr. Trump following his acknowledgement in contacting the president of Ukraine to lead an investigation on Joe Biden, former U.S. Vice President under the Barack Obama administration.

Biden could be an opponent to

Photo courtesy of CNN.com

President Donald Trump (left) and 2020 Democratic candidate Joe Biden.

Trump in the upcoming 2020 election.

Information was disclosed by a whistleblower within the intelligence community.

“The actions of the Trump presidency have revealed the dishonorable fact of the president’s betrayal of his oath of office,” Pelosi announced in a televised statement during a press conference on Sept. 24, the transcript of which is chronicled in the Speaker of the House’s official website. “Therefore, today, I am announcing the House of Representatives is moving forward with an official impeachment inquiry.”

The United States system of government is structured in a way that one of the three branches of government, executive, judicial, and legislative, can-

not obtain unreasonable power over the others. Thus creating a system of checks and balances which, by its very structure, the government self-regulates.

Impeachment is one of these powers allotted to Congress to indict a sitting President of misconduct or criminal acts, as outlined in the U.S. Constitution, Article II, Section 4 where it is stated “the President, Vice President and all Civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.”

Since the controversial 2016 election, President Trump’s administration has suffered under his chronic victim com-

plex, citing conspiracy theorist-esque claims of “deep-state actors” and “liberal Dems” as the root of his problems in Washington.

As a result, of his most hardline supporters buying into his dubious claims, America seems more divided along party lines than any other time in recent history.

While Trump’s presidency is a symptom of party loyalty and “sticking it to the other side” over the commonwealth of we, as citizens of the United States, rather than a cause of these caustic sentiments. The impeachment proceedings are nevertheless a step in the right direction towards reconciliation between left and right-wing politics.

Man on the Street This Week’s Question:

“What are you looking most forward to for the fall festival?”

Name: Zachery Moses Major: Biomedical Sciences “For me, pretty much just going with friends and having a good time. Never really been to one before so it’d be a new experience to try out.”

Compiled by: Gabriella Mastroianni

Name: Kristina Gonzalez Major: Math Education “I most looking forward to the costumes that people are going to wear.

People show up in like the dinosaur, [costumes] that’s fun.

Name: Danyelle Green Major: Business “Putting my school work on hold for a couple of hours and have fun with my friends.”

Name: JC Mendoza Major: Mechanical Engineering “I just like the food. I like eating. I like walking around and seeing all the people coming to meet here and hanging around.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

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Entertainment

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Theater feeds the soul for Ranson ERICA GARCIA GINNETT Contributing Writer Corey Ranson has been involved in theater since the first time he chased a girl into a drama class. Decades later, Ranson is the associate professor of theater and director of the theater program and has been building up its reputation since he arrived at Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 2008.

The practical application of theater is performance. Typically the director of theater oversees the work being done in his or her department, but because TAMUK’s theater department is extremely limited in staff and has a small number of theater students, Ranson’s position is loaded with more than what is usual.

“Typically as a director of theater, you’re not as busy as I am…it’s fun, it’s not ideal, but that’s just where we are right now and we’re working on growing,” Ranson said.

Ranson is responsible for all the theater activity at TAMUK, teaches, performs scholarly activities, does research and works with the university as any associate professor would; but Ranson also chooses the season, directs at least one production a semester, designs the shows, oversees building construction, writes some of the plays performed by TAMUK students and is mentor to Alpha Psi Omega, the theater honor society.

On top of all that, he is in the process of bringing back something many students have been desiring: a Bachelors in Fine Arts in Theater and Film.

When Ranson first arrived at TAMUK in 2008, there was such a major, but

over the years through decisions made by the state, it was lost and Ranson believes the students deserve to have it again.

“It’s important because it helps the students get better chances in internships and in graduate studies,” Ranson said. “We spend a lot of time trying to educate our colleagues and our community on how the industry works.”

If students have an interest or desire to be in theater, the more students there are pushing for what they want, the faster they will get it. TAMUK may have few theater students, but they have an energy and strength that cannot be denied.

“The hope is we are adding and changing things for people to create better opportunities for students, because when you have great theater experiences you just don’t want to stop and it can be a career,” Ranson said.

In his youth, Ranson was constantly doing art work. Ranson would go to one of his high school teacher’s home studio, along with a friend, and work on various projects. Ranson also was a drummer in a band and was part of UIL performances.

Not receiving a good foundation in high school to perform, Ranson first went to a junior college to “catch up” with the others.

Just as most start in the theater industry, Ranson started as an actor, but he personally preferred the direction side.

“I always found myself having a better idea in my own mind about things and so in undergraduate school I took on a lot of directing and design work,” Ranson said.

Photo by Erica Garcia Ginnett

Corey Ranson, the director of the theater program Ranson’s childhood experience in an ill-supported UIL organization seems to be a foundation for his own mantra of life.

“I spent my life re-educating either colleagues or the community and students…about what it takes to put on a show,” Ranson said.

Spending over two decades in the theater world, Ranson makes a great effort to bring to light what theater truly is.

“People spend more money on a concert ticket than they will on their mother’s surgery. Who do you think runs that concert? A lighting designer, a set designer from theater created

that,” Ranson said.

“When you’re looking at the entertainment industry we don’t think much of it because we’re so used to just seeing the final product, but when you see what goes into it you’re shocked.”

Even Ranson’s personal life reflects his feelings about theater. The girl Ranson chased into a drama class, which started it all for him? She eventually became his wife, and they’ve been married for 24 years.

“Life is very short, you never know how long you’re going to be here. Can you not wait for the weekend, or can you not wait until you go back to it?”

Ranson said.

Adulting 101: How to fill out your FAFSA ILIANA FLORES Managing Editor

Spooky season has finally arrived so that means it’s time for costumes, candy and binging every movie on Freeform’s 31 Nights of Halloween.

However, if you’re a college student the spookiest of all tasks has also come back again and that is filling out your FAFSA. Every year on Oct. 1 the Office of Federal Student Aid opens up the FAFSA, so students can collect more debt to pay for college.

If you are like me, then you will probably keep pushing off doing your FAFSA as the task can seem quite daunting. However, if you don’t want to be a stress ball of worry because you didn’t realize there was a priority deadline of Jan. 1 and it was March and you hadn’t even attempted to remember your FSA password, you probably want to pay attention to the steps below so you can fill out your FAFSA as soon as possible and get back to thinking about what character from Stranger Things you want to dress up as this year.

Anyways, step number one for completing you FAFSA is going to https:// studentaid.ed.gov/sa/fafsa. Once you get there, you must choose if you are new to the FAFSA process or a returning user.

If you are new, you will go step by step to creating an account. If you are a returning user, hopefully you remember your password, but if not, no

Photo courtesy of https://blog.ed.gov/2017/09/8-steps-to-filling-out-the-fafsa-form/

Detailed instuctions on how to use IRS DRT to fill out financial information in FAFSA. big deal as you can click “forgot password” and make a new one.

After you get in, you can start your FAFSA form for 2020-2021. For those who have filled out the FAFSA before, the “Student Demographics, School Selection and Dependency Status” should have the same information you have used before. If needed, change information that is not relevant to you anymore.

Those who have not filled out the FAFSA before, click start new FAFSA and fill in the information as prompt-

ed.

After you have answered all the questions, you will need to sit down with your parents to fill out the “Parental Financials” portion. For the 20202021 form, your parents will need their tax information from 2018. To make this task simple, use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) by logging into your parent’s IRS account when prompted, as it will insert the necessary information for you.

If you cannot use the IRS DRT make sure to have your parent’s Social Secu-

rity card, alien registration or permanent resident card, 2018 Tax return, 2018 W-2 form and other records of taxed or untaxed income, current bank statements and current investment records (such as businesses and farms, stocks, bonds, etc.). This information will need to be filled in manually.

When this is completed you will be asked to double check all your information. If all is correct, put in your electronic signature and hit submit.

Now you’re all done and you can go back to celebrating the spooky season.

Have you seen The Addams Family? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter: @thesouthtexan

Entertainment

Thursday, October 17, 2019

7

It’s horrible, it’s hideous, it’s just ok

The Addams Family latest cartoon not as great as 1991 film

ARYSSA ENRIQUEZ Campus Editor They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky, they’re all together kooky it’s the Addams Family’s latest movie.

Since 1938, the Addams Family has been an iconic franchise that has managed to captivate audiences with dark humor throughout the decades.

The Addams Family were first brought to life by cartoonist Charles Addams and quickly became part of the pages on The New Yorker. Addams’ cartoons were well received by readers with their gothic visuals, satirical comments and morbid curiosity. By 1964 the comics had made a leap into television, giving life to the dark characters.

Characters were first named during the show.

In 1977 a live action movie was aired

and it would not be the last time The Addams Family graced the screen. In 1991 the film made the silver screen under the direction of Barry Sonnenfeld. The film received several Golden Globe and Oscar nominations. Although several decades have passed, The Addams Family has managed to continue to entertain audiences capturing the tone and wit of Charles Addams.

Recently, our favorite family misfits have once again hit the big screen, giving life to an animated version. The film was composed of several wellknown actors such as Chloe Grace Moretz, Finn Wolfhard and Charlize Theron.

In the 2019 film, The Addams Family is preparing for a visit from all their creepy relatives, but trouble arises when the Addams family become an obstacle between television personality Margaux Needler’s dream to sell

all the houses in the neighborhood.

The film leaves a message encouraging people not to judge based on appearances.

The Addams Family made allusions to horror film IT and classic film Frankenstein. Wednesday Addams is spotted chasing after a red balloon and Morticia Addams comments on the balloon “There’s usually a murderous clown attached to one end.” It was a comical scene that emphasized Wednesday’s desire to fit in the outside world.

Wednesday Addams revives a toad in her science class and immediately breaks out screaming “It’s alive” repeatedly, making reference to Frankenstein’s reaction upon creating the monster.

The 2019 film also made several references to the 1991 movie. The “No Ragrets” tattoo found on Fester Addams in the 1991 film is showcased in the animated version. The characters’ tone were all similar to Charles Addams’ original characters. However, Wednesday’s values change in order to convey a message to younger audiences.

We all know Wednesday Addams’ personality as the hardcore character with a soft spot for spiders. Yet, the animated film portrays Wednesday as wanting to simulate into society.

Changing Wednesday’s character affects the whole plot of the movie. In previous films Wednesday embraces being the outcast and misfit and in the new film Wednesday attempts to fit in and be liked by a group of girls in school.

The animated film was well done, having several comical dark scenes despite being a children’s movie. The altering of Wednesday character was a little disappointing but was needed to

convey a message for children.

Growing up watching several adaptations of The Addams Family, my favorite is still the 1991 film. The creepiness and morbid curiosity of The Addams Family has made the misfit group one of our favorites.

RATINGS

39%

of 100%

5.9 of 10

44%

of 100%

ARYSSA’S RATING

YouTube show review: MeatEater’s Das Boat DYLAN DOZIER Sports Editor

On the surface, YouTube’s newest fishing show, Das Boat, appears to be just another fishing show; a cast of merry anglers killing time on the water with rod and reel in hand. MeatEater’s new brainchild takes the aforementioned notion and turns it on its head.

Das Boat is the story of a battered aluminum boat, saved from the purgatory of Craigslist and brought back to life by Steven Rinella and friends. Each episode features a new pair of anglers and a different fishery. The anglers have a few days to make renovations to the boat and fish their selected waters before passing the boat on to the next set of anglers.

Episode one features Rinella and Gulf Coast fly fishing guide JT Van Zandt. The pair christen the Alumacraft boat near the town of Rockport, Texas.

Like much of MeatEater’s content, the episode is laden with conservation banter and thought-provoking discussions about the tension between fly fishermen and users of conventional tackle.

Das Boat then makes its way to Austin, Texas, for episode two. Fishing

guide Alvin Dedeaux and world-renowned chef Jesse Griffiths add a new trailer wench, oars and locks and a detachable grill to the vessel.

These anglers set sail down the Lower Colorado River in search of Guadalupe Bass and gar. While reeling in a fair number of bass, they touch on their personal histories and the advantages of different tackle on the river. Chef Griffiths takes over Das Boat’s new grill and prepares Guadalupe Bass over a hardwood fire. Episode two ends with Dedeaux presenting a gift for the next set of anglers.

Across the entirety of the American South, wildlife artist Ed Anderson and MeatEater Director of Conservation Ryan Callaghan prep the boat to fish the mangrove mazes of Sanibel Island and Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge in the Sunshine State.

Callaghan installs carpet flooring that he scavenged on the island and the casting platform gifted by Dedeaux.

Anderson puts his artistic mastery to work by hand-painting fish on the left hull.

The anglers set sail on waters that are struggling to come back from the effects of a red tide. Snook and tarpon are on the docket, but skipjack (ladyfish) are all to be caught. Episode three

has the least amount of action on the water but includes a healthy dose of conservation history and visually appealing food preparation.

Callaghan and Anderson are most successful in portraying the spirit of camaraderie that accompanies the best of all fishing stories.

Longtime friends Frank Smethurst and “Mustache” Rob Smith take to the helm in episodes five and six. Episode five features the anglers adding column steering to the now worn-in vessel and a gamecock figurine for good luck.

Day one is spent in the Savannah River near Augusta, Ga., where the two men use fly rods and conventional gear to catch a species that is native only to the Savannah River, the Bartram’s bass. The history of Augusta is touched upon, and the two men discuss their personal relationships to the river while bait-fishing for Atlantic stripers. Episode six takes place the following day. The same guys hit the same river for a 50-mile float to Wade Plantation.

The anglers catch a variety of ornate species including red-breasted bream, largemouth bass, Bartram’s bass, and gar. Fans are introduced to the work of 18th-century American naturalist

William Bartram, who explored the Savannah River alone and by canoe.

Smethurst and Smith’s final destination, the Wade Plantation, brings to mind good old-fashioned Southern hospitality.

Das Boat’s first season fades to black while the two final anglers share a meal of roasted feral pig and homegrown vegetables with the plantation residents.

Das Boat is unconventional in its promotion of the fishing lifestyle. It uses the passing of a nostalgia-inducing object to drive the stories of a passionate, personable and knowledgeable cast.

Like the majority of MeatEater’s most popular content, conservation, camaraderie and fishing as a means of food acquisition are at the forefront of the message.

It is not for gearheads looking for the next hot product or armchair anglers sniffing out their midday fix. Das Boat is a 20 minute glimpse into the how’s and why’s of fishing and provides viewers with an opportunity to involve themselves in the adventures of a reborn, aluminum vessel.

Once again, Rinella and staff prove that satisfaction comes not from the taking of game, but from the process of the journey.

Sports

Thursday, October 17, 2019

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For live game updates Follow us on Twitter: @thesouthtexan

Wolves hunt down Javelinas, 26-14

Photo by Dylan Dozier

Cade Dyal evades the Western Oregon defense.

Lead surrendered in last non-conference football contest DYLAN DOZIER Sports Editor In the first half of TAMUK’s last non-conference game against the Wolves of Western Oregon, the hometown team commanded the field be-

fore trading their momentum in the second half for a 26-14 loss.

The strong first half by the Javelinas began with a jet sweep to senior receiver Donte Ross who found the pylon from three-yards out, capping a 7-play, 62-yard drive and putting the Blue and Gold up 7-0.

Western Oregon would answer right back. The Wolves capitalized on a 67yard kickoff return by Marquis Sampson when quarterback Ty Currie found the goal line on a 15-yard scramble.

The run by Currie would even the score at 7-7.

Volleyball fights to hold first spot in the division

Career performances for Morris and Kadilis SABRINA GONZALEZ Sports Writer

The Javelina volleyball team held on to their first place position after matches in Austin and San Antonio, Texas.

They are now 5-1 in their division, 6-2 in conference and have an overall record of 15-7.

After several weeks of midweek games and a hectic traveling schedule, the Javelinas had two out of town matches against the St. Edwards Hilltoppers and the St. Mary’s Rattlers this week. The Hilltoppers topped the Javelinas in three sets for their first divisional loss and the Javelinas got their revenge on the Rattlers in five sets.

Despite a good fight by the Javelinas, they were unable to get past the Hilltoppers that took the match with a sweep (25-23, 26-24, 25-21). Sophomore Jordan Wonders picked up nine kills and senior Talleyshia Morris smashed over eight of her own.

Sophomores Lauren Kadilis and Nicole Murff recorded 32 digs altogether.

The next Javelina drive faltered at the Western Oregon 40-yard line after nine plays and an offsides penalty, but thanks to a muffed Karch Kaspar punt, the Javelinas resumed their drive at the Western Oregon 10-yard line before a Cade Dyal interception in the end zone turned the tide back around.

Kaspar had a career-game, punting eight times for 358 yards. One of those efforts was a 68-yard career-long and three fell inside the Wolves 20-yardline.

“The positives, outside of the penalty on the punt return, our special teams

played very well. Karch was punting the ball and putting them in bad situations. We had the blocked field goal that gave us 7 points, so there are bright spots on special teams where we kept ourselves in the ballgame,” Head Coach Daren Wilkinson said.

Shortly into the second quarter, the Hogs battled their way to a fourth down after a nine-play, 72-yard drive by the Wolves. The 33-yard attempt was blocked by the Blue and Goal field goal coverage unit and returned

Western Oregon Continued on Page 10

The first set was back and forth as the lead changed several times between the two. Although they took the lead at the end, the Hilltoppers came back to claim the first set. The Hilltoppers started on top in the second set, but the Javelinas regained the lead. The lead was traded several times again, only for the Hilltoppers to come in and take the second set. The third set started the same with the Hilltoppers taking the lead, and never giving it back. The Blue and Gold fought till the end but were unable to take the lead. The Hilltoppers took the third set.

Over the weekend, the Javelinas were handed their first loss but are still on top in their division. They’ve been working and fighting every day and plan to continue working hard.

“Having our first loss in conference to St. Ed’s was a wake-up call for us and showed that we have to come to play every week,” sophomore Emily North said. “We’re still psyched that we’re sitting at number one in the conference right now and we hope to keep improving every week.”

The Javs had their chance at revenge and took it after the Rattlers defeat-

VB Games Continued on Page 10

Talleyshia Morris tips over defenders.

Photo courtesy of Javelina athletics.

Sports

Want the full story on all things Blue and Gold? Visit us at thesouthtexan.com

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Cross Country sprints for gold

Jasiah Patterson sprints for the finish line.

Freshman duo leads XC runners SABRINA GONZALEZ Contributing Writer

Javelina Cross Country ran past the competition this weekend with first place finishes for the men’s and women’s teams.

In the final meet before the Lone Star Conference Cross Country Champion-

ships, the Javelinas secured wins at the Pirate Invitational that took place at Old Settlers Park. The top runner for the women’s team was freshman Monica Yanez who secured a first-place finish with a time of 26 minutes and 20.3 seconds. On the men’s side, freshman Devin Robles was the first Javelina to cross the finish line at 28 minutes and 42.5 seconds, which got him a second-place finish.

Yanez’s time had her ahead of the next runner by almost a full minute.

Senior Victoria Jaime and junior Larissa Sanchez Gonzalez weren’t far be-

9

Photo courtesy of Javelina Athletics

hind finishing fourth and fifth. Jaime came in at 28:06.4 and Sanchez Gonzalez finished at 28:43.9. Senior Carnecia Scott picked up an eighth-place finish with a time of 29:54.0. The final Javelina to cross the finish line for the women’s team was junior Lauren Rodriguez who finished 12th in 32:22.4, which put the Javelinas score at 18 for the win over Sul Ross which had 37.

On the men’s side, junior Jasiah Patterson was the second Javelina to cross the finish line in fourth place with a time of 30:07.6. With just one person between them, junior David Tellez picked up a sixth-place finish in

30:27.8. Also finishing in the top 10, junior Angel Martinez finished in 30:50.6 which helped him to an eighth-place finish. Freshman Matthew Aparicio secured the win with a time of 32:04.6 and an 11th place finish.

“I feel our performance was great.

We all showed up and gave it our best and our best was able to get us first place as a team,” Tellez said. “This meet was definitely a confidence booster for us.”

The Javelina Cross Country team will have a few weeks to recover and prepare for the LSC Cross Country Championships in Silver City, N.M.

A decade of grassroots fitness CrossFit begins five week Open DYLAN DOZIER Sports Editor The shortest off-season in the history of the world’s new favorite fitness competition is coming to a close, as athletes all over the world are prepping for the 2020 CrossFit Games Open.

Workout announcements will coincide with a head-to-head throw down between Games veteran Scott Panchik and four-time Games champion Rich Froning. The workout is taking place in Austin, Tx. Only 67 days separate the announcement of workout 20.1 and the closing ceremonies of the 2019 CrossFit Games.

The last 10 years of Open competition has ran primarily during the month of February, giving athletes six months to train, recover and prepare for the national competition.

CrossFit Director and Programmer Dave Castro will announce a new work out to be performed by registered Open athletes. Athletes will submit their score online and recover while they wait for the next week’s workout to be announced.

Participants hoping to have their scores qualified must validate video submissions by following guidelines available on CrossFit.com. Any athlete registered for the Open is also subject

Mat Fraser cleans 380 lbs. at the 2019 CrossFit Games. to random drug testing.

After five weeks of the Open, the top men and women in each eligible country are declared national champions and qualify for the CrossFit Games.

National champions and the top 20 from the Open compete for the title of Fittest on Earth at the CrossFit Games, held in Madison, Wisc.

Though qualifying for the games is at the forefront of Open-season discus-

sion, most of the athletes participating in this year’s Open are doing so in the spirit of self-betterment. This is the same spirit that drives performance on a daily basis in affiliate gyms across the globe, but the inclusiveness of the Open competition provides participants with a universally singular focus.

Most of Castro’s favorite movements in Open competition are body-weight

Photo courtesy of games.crossfit.com

exercises. Chest-to-bar, toes-to-bar, and double-unders have been the trifecta of the Open, programmed in every competition since its inception in 2011. Thrusters are the only bar-movement included in every workout in the Open’s 10-year run.

Workouts can be accessed online and can be conducted at any CrossFit affiliae or any place that has weightlifting and fitness equipment.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

10

Sports

Donte Ross scampers upfield after fielding the Wolves punt.

Western Oregon Continued from Page 8 70 yards by Josh Wilson for the touchdown, putting the host up 14-7 going into the break.

“The last three games, we had momentum at the half. We were leading this one, tied at Eastern New Mexico and down by a score at Commerce.

We were playing very well before the end of the first half and each of those games we came out in the second half and found ways to not play the same

caliber of ball that we were playing in the first half,” Wilkinson said.

“I don’t know how to put my finger on it. We’re making adjustments on both sides of the ball but for whatever reason, we come out and they go down and score on us. Then our first series on offense, we go three-and-out and one down was the penalty on the big run

by Luis [Lopez]. We find ways to not get it done in the second half, and were not going to win a lot of ballgames here playing football the way we do in the second half,” he continued.

For live game updates follow us on social media: @thesouthtexan

Photo by Dylan Dozier

The second-half kickoff was received

by Western Oregon, and the visitors marched 59 yards on six plays, resulting in another Currie touchdown and evening the score at 14-14.

The next Javelina drive stalled out when Dyal was picked off for the second time. The Wolves would take advantage of the sudden momentum change, capping a five-play, 35-yard drive with a 7-yard touchdown run by Omari Land. The extra-point attempt sailed wide, but Western Oregon was still on top 20-14.

Late in the third quarter, Wolves back Nico Jackson hit a 40-yard jaunt that set up the Wolves final score. With five-seconds left to play in the period, Currie would find the end zone on his feet once again, this time from 11 yards out. The Wolves left their offense on the field with the hopes of picking up two points, but the Currie pass fell incomplete. This was the last scoring effort of the game by either team, leaving the score at 26-14.

Any comeback hopes were wrenched from the hometown team after Joey Sinclair made a one-handed interception.

“Give credit to Western Oregon.

They did a heck of a job running the ball. We couldn’t stop their power play and their quarterback did a heck of a job in the RPO game. Again, each week, it’s very rarely what the opposing team does to us but what we do to ourselves.

It’s one of those things with their confidence. Somebody looking around for someone else to make a play, but were not getting it done in the second half, and it’s a frustrating thing,” Wilkinson said.

Redshirt sophomore Ryan Martinez pulled down three catches for 55 yards, and the rushing offensive was spear-headed once again by running back Luis Lopez who piled up 71 yards on 11 plays.

Tre’Michael Tutt led the defense with a game-high 13 tackles, including the lone TAMUK sack, and a forced fumble. Redshirt sophomore Kason Franklin added 10 tackles of his own to finish as the other Javelina with double-digit stops.

The Hogs will head out on the road to Wichita Falls, Texas next week to resume Lone Star Conference action as they take on the Mustangs of Midwestern State.

Jordan Wonders sets up a teammate.

VB Games Continued from Page 8 ed them a month ago in the Emerald Beach Invitational. The Javelinas came out on top after five sets (25-20, 2519, 21-25, 19-25, 15-13). Morris threw down 21 kills and 11 blocks. The 11 blocks she picked up are the most by a Javelina since 2011. Wonders picked up another 15 kills in these five sets.

Kadilis and North both recorded double-doubles in this match. Kadilis picked up 38 assists and 11 digs while North grabbed 17 assists and 13 digs.

Murff recorded more than 30 digs for the third time this season racking up 32 digs in total. The Javelinas took the lead in the first two sets with the Rattlers trying to close in but weren’t able to take the lead which led to a 2-0

Photo courtesy of Javelina Athletics

start for the Javs. The third set started a little different with the Rattlers taking the lead. The Blue and Gold tried to come back but couldn’t make up the lead that the Rattlers had put up and lost their first set. The fourth set went the same with the Javs unable to take the lead after the Rattlers took it and ran with it to tie it up at 2-2. In the final set of the match, the Javelinas and Rattlers tied up the game eight times.

The Rattlers took the lead at 7 but the Javelinas quickly jumped back and stole the lead. The Rattlers tied it up once again but the Blue and Gold came out victorious in this back and forth matchup to take the win.

The Blue and Gold will be back in action at home this weekend against Cameron and UA-Forth Smith.

What events are happening on campus? Let us know at: thesouthtexan@tamuk.edu

News and Jumps

Thursday, October 17, 2019

11

Don’t Fall for Ticket Scams This Autumn

EMILY GAINES Contributed Article If you haven’t experienced it yet, you will soon: the last-minute ticket scramble. There’s plenty of ways it can begin.

Maybe one of your hometown friends wanted to see this weekend’s football game, and you’re trying to buy a ticket from someone.

It could be that you waited until the last minute to buy those festival passes because you had to get your syllabi first and make sure no exams were scheduled the following Monday.

Sometimes you just want to find the lowest possible price, because you’re working with a more minimalistic budget (a trendy way of saying you’re a broke college student). No matter what initiates the ticket scramble, you’ll probably find yourself searching online for discounted or sold-out tickets.

Unfortunately, ticket scams are a real issue, because they can be extremely profitable to the scammers. A threeday general admission pass to the Austin City Limits Music Festival can sell for over $1,400 on StubHub, and that’s without VIP access. If a scammer sells a fake pass for even half that cost, they’re still making hundreds of dollars. College is all about learning, but if you can, skip learning about this the hard way. Use these tips from BBB serving the Heart of Texas to keep your football and festival season fraud-free:

Dia de la Raza continued from Page 1 tinue to lose rights and so today marks the day of Native Americans in the Americas. With those two ideas in mind we have been celebrating our history for the last eight years… I think it’s important for everybody to always get the opportunity to speak in public and to let your ideas go. This is an opportunity to share what you thought was important to share,” Spanish Professor Iniguez said.

The words of Octavio Paz, Pablo Neruda and Gloria Anzaldua were amongst other renowned poets whose words were expressed by students.

The Read-out also offered a platform for students to be creative and write their own literary works. Students interested in creative writing are invited to attend a creative writing workshop hosted by the Language Arts Departments on Oct. 18 in the Blue Room.

“I wasn’t raised here, and I have been told ‘Why are you speaking Spanish?’ and it inspired me to write. The last line in my poem says ‘Ser diferente no es inferior’ and that’s something my parents have always told me… It’s better to be different than to be just another sheep in this community. I’m proud of

Know the source.

Knowing who you’re buying your tickets from can help you avoid buying bad tickets. For example, a professional ticket broker is a legitimate and accredited reseller, while a scalper is an unregulated and unlicensed ticket seller. There are also scammers who sell fake tickets online or charge you for tickets and never send them.

Check out the broker or seller. You can Photo Courtesy Javelina Athletics see if you’re buying An overhead view of Pepsi Field at Javelina Stadium from a National Association of Ticket Brokers-member citement heats up, remember these URL. resale company by visiting VerifiedVerify your tickets. If you’re still un- BBB tips to keep yourself and your TicketSource.com. Another option is sure about your tickets and the venue money safe during all your fall festivto check the venue or ticket source on is nearby, you can always go to cus- ities! bbb.org.

You can visit us at bbb.org for more. tomer service and ask them to verify if Know the refund policy. Never buy it is real or fake. They can also show tickets from a reseller without a clear you how to tell fake stuff from the real BBB’s vision is an ethical marketplace refund policy. Before you purchase deal. where buyers and sellers trust each othtickets, you should also know if the Report fraud. If you end up with er, and our mission is to be the leader in tickets will be available immediately fake tickets (or pay for tickets you nev- advancing marketplace trust. Your BBB or when they will become available or er receive), go to bbb.org/Scam Track- serves 105 counties in Texas, with ofshipped to you. er and fill out a quick report. This helps fices in Austin, Bryan, Corpus Christi, Use safe payment methods. Credit us track fraud, but it also helps other Fort Worth, Midland, San Antonio and cards are typically the safest way to consumers avoid falling for the same Waco. To learn more, visit us at bbb.org/ central-texas or email Emily Gaines at pay for things online, because you can scam. contest a purchase if you never receive As temperatures cool down and ex- egaines@austin.bbb.org. your ticket. If you don’t have a credit card, use debit and call your bank to Unity “First you think it’s coming out ask how to handle fraud charges in continued from Page 1 to your parents and oh that’s the big the event of a scam. You should nevweight off your shoulders but then it’s er pay with a gift card or wire transcoming into the corporate world where fer, because those can’t be traced, and your money can’t be returned to you if events like this are so important,” Gar- you have to find a job, and it’s that fear cia said. of what’s going to happen [to my job] something goes wrong.

For many in the LGBTQ+ commu- if my partner were to come in here...To Be careful with ads. You can usually tell when a pop-up ad is fake, but nity, coming out is a big moment, but come out of the closet was a big fear scammers are getting better at mak- coming out is not a one-time experi- of mine because of the discrimination part behind it, but I was welcomed ing them look real and use low prices ence.

At the event, many shared the senti- more with open arms in the departto tempt you into checking them out.

Avoid clicking on ads (especially the ment that they have to constantly come ment I am in now,” Gerragauch said.

Oliviera hopes that events like this ones with unbelievable prices) and go out.

Natalie M. Gerragauch, an admin- will continue to change the TAMUK to secure websites instead. You’ll know it’s secure by the lock icon next to the istrative assistant for the university, community. came along with her fiancé and their “We need to start changing people’s son and spoke about their everyday views on this campus and I want for all experiences as a lesbian couple. of us to unite and represent what Unity where I come from,” Isay Cruz, politiGerragauch said the couple often is for,” Oliveira said. cal science major, said. gets confused as sisters, however they To continue the celebration of In her poem, Cruz discusses the are happy and proud of who they are. LGBTQ+ History Month, Unity will meaning of being a minority and But, besides coming out to families and have a window display at the bookshowing pride in cultural identity. friends, they have had to come out in store in the Memorial Student Union Some students decided to bring life the workplace.

Building for anyone to check out. to the Read-Out by singing some of their favorite Latin songs, such as La Bamba by Richie Valens and Que llueva café by Café Tacuba.

While some students wrote their own poems, others shared excerpts of their favorite Latin American literary works.

“I first heard about this poem in my English class, and I thought it was important to share because immigration is something our country deals with….

Our country needs this, it needs people to voice their opinion and their rights. It offers people an opportunity to express themselves and voice their opinions,” Macie Satterwhite, English major, said.

Satterwhite presented La Migra by Pat Mora. The poem plays with the perspective of a Border Patrol agent and an immigrant woman emphasizing each individual’s advantages.

Through the rainy afternoon, students voiced their opinions and commemorated the meaning of Christopher Columbus’s arrival.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

12

News

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Visit us at: TheSouthTexan.com

Fuzzy friends for foster kids

UPD sets up drive to collect stuffed animals for children in foster care ALYSSA MANCHA Contributing Writer This month marks the start of the University Police Department’s (UPD) Teddy Bear Drive. The idea of the drive is to collect as many stuffed toys as possible before Dec. 13 to give to foster children for Christmas.

The person behind this idea is Miranda Rodriguez, a UPD officer.

“This was an idea I’ve had for a while and the chief approved it,” Rodriguez said. She decided to call it the Teddy Bear Drive because, “it just had a nicer ring to it than Stuffed Toy Drive.”

The UPD will accept any kind of stuffed animal, new or used. Rodriguez wanted to do something good for the children in the foster care system.

Rodriguez decided to start the drive in October, because Kingsville is not the only area she is hoping to reach.

“I feel like all the ideas I have can get approved by the UPD,” Rodriguez said. “I wanted it to get more awareness. Not just Kingsville, but hopefully Corpus too.”

With plenty of time till Dec. 13, she hopes to get enough toys that every child in the foster care system has a stuffed toy this Christmas. Rodriguez hopes to make this an annual event and continue on even if she leaves the campus. If anyone has a stuffed toy, or

Photo courtesy of Facebook

Border Patrol and UPD officers came together to donate stuffed animals for foster care children. toys, they would like to donated they can drop them off at UPD, which is located in Lewis Hall.

According to Texas KIDS COUNT, there were 59 children in foster care in Kleberg County in 2015, the most

recent statistics on the organization’s website. This is down from highs of 109 in 2006 and 102 in 2003.