The South Texan Vol. 94, Issue 9

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

Thursday, October 31, 2019 Volume 94, Issue 9 TheSouthTexan.com

Calaveras

Homecoming

Special Section

Pages 6-7

Department of Language and Literature pay tribute to dia de los muertos.

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Javelinas in the spotlight TAMUK students showcase their talents ARYSSA ENRIQUEZ Campus Editor Students filled the seats of Jones Auditorium and looked on as their peers showed off their hidden talents at the Blue and Gold Talent Show on Oct. 22.

The Blue and Gold Talent Show is an ongoing Homecoming tradition that showcases student’s talents, featuring everything from singing to VR gaming.

The show provided a platform for students to perform in the spotlight and come out of their shell.

“If you think you are weird, quirky or different you need to embrace it,” Master of Ceremonies Joseph Tran said. “As nervous as you are everybody wants to see you perform and wants to love you. If you find something you love, just go with it. You need to do it because it makes you happy and you should never look back.”

The show was hosted by Tran, a comedian, actor and magician based out of Los Angeles.

Throughout the show, attendees got to see mind bending tricks from Tran.

Tran had the audience actively engaged throughout each performance and enthusiastically presented each contestant.

“My favorite part was getting a chance to work with everyone. I like to be involved in the whole process, because a t some point I was on that stage…I like to see how I can help them and maybe share some of my experiences, to make them feel better

Photos by Aryssa Enriquez

Ty Benavides taking a bow after claiming the grand prize at the talent show. (Bottom from left to right) Luis Briseno, Ty Benavides and Victoria Castro.

about themselves. Honestly, they are all so talented and it was an honor to share the stage,” Tran said.

Acts ranged from singing, playing various instruments and a virtual performance where a student played OSU which he described as Dance Dance Revolution except of dancing with your feet you play with a computer mouse.

The night had 10 different acts each competing for the grand price of $300.

Prizes were granted to the top three performances of the night.

“Judging is the hardest, they are all so good and afraid to keep going. It’s really hard but you just got to follow the criteria…just the encouragement to show their talent a n d being fearless of showing who they are,” Irma Reyes, Blue and Gold talent show judge, said.

Wi n ners of the night were Ty Benavides, Victoria Castro and Luis

Briseno.

Each performer captured the audience and gave an authentic performance.

Benavides performed “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and had the audience clapping to the beat.

Castro had the crowd singing along with one of Selena Quintanilla’s best selling records “No Me Queda Mas” and Briseno captured the audience with his interpretation of “Hallelujah”

by Leonard Cohen. “‘No me queda mas’ is a song about being stuck in the friend zone, it’s something I can relate to so that’s why I chose the song.

I also just want-

ed to pay homage to Selena, since I grew up playing

and hearing her all the time,” Castro said.

Audience members waved their hands in the air as Briseno played his guitar and sang some of the world’s most known lyrics.

“This is a song [Hallelujah] that everyone knows and everybody likes.

My junior year in high school I got to perform it at Texas Boys State and it meant a lot to me. Seeing everyone at UT [University of Texas at Austin] and all the lights will always have a special place in m y heart, and I wante d to pay homage to that performance,” Briseno said.

That night e a c h contes-

tant lost their fear of the stage and embraced their talent.

Campus

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Have an upcoming event for us to cover? Email us at: thesouthtexan@tamuk.edu

19th annual breast cancer walk/run

Javelinas strive to make a change

ARYSSA ENRIQUEZ Campus Editor The cold morning was not enough to stop students and the community to come together and support the fighters, admire the survivors and honor the taken. Student Health and Wellness and Alpha Sigma Alpha united to celebrate the 19th Annual 5K Breast Cancer Awareness Walk/Run on Oct. 26, 2019.

“The walk/ run had a great turnout. I’m so glad everyone came out and braved the cold to support all the breast cancer warriors,” Gina Merzbacher, co-coordinator of 5K walk/run.

The event offered a platform for the community and students to support and make a contribution to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The Susan G. Komen foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for breast cancer and helping women combat the disease through numerous resources. At the end of the event of the university was able to raise $465 in donations.

Each year Alpha Sigma Alpha and the Student Health and Wellness collaborate to host the event. The event

Photo by Aryssa Enriquez

Students and alumni racing down University Boulevard to finish the Breast Cancer 5K walk Run

features testimonies of cancer survivors and offers students information about healthy options.

“So this was actually my sorority’s main philanthropy. I think it’s important for higher education to take a

Tailgate Zone: College Night Out CALISTA REYES Contributing Writer Tuesday, Oct. 29, the Arts and Sciences College Night Out was held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Fine Arts pavilion.

Arts and sciences students were encouraged to attend and bring their friends to join in for a night of fun with games and free food.

In addition to food and fun, students also got an opportunity to learn about the different opportunities the department and organizations have to offer by stopping by each booth to get an insight.

“CNO familiarizes the students with the opportunities that are out there for programs, degrees and majors,” Sr. Administrative Coordinator Patsy Rios said.

CNO didn’t just give students the chance to be creative with lots of art activities and meet new people but also provided them with specific information that one would not necessarily hear about anywhere else.

“I’m really enjoying CNO. It gets

people involved and you get to meet people outside of your major. I learned a lot of information I didn’t know. I really didn’t know much about the art department before this but seeing all of the activities out here, like the printmaking, is really cool,” Business student Araceli Mireles said.

Students were also able to meet academic advisors and ask any questions about programs or majors if need be.

“CNO gives students knowledge about everything we have to offer,” Academic Advisor Suzanne Villarreal said.

CNO allows for students to get exposed to several different organizations and get involved around campus.

“I’m having lots of fun playing some of the games, I’m not in arts and sciences but my friend is and I’ve learned a lot while being out here. It’s a new experience for me and all the food is really good,” social services major Alejandra Cardona said.

CNO has successfully provided students with a fun, creative way of learning new information and making new friends.

Photo by Kelby Sprinkles

Students at College Night Out got to design a T-shirt.

stance and encourage students to care about their health. It steers them in the direction to take care of their health, and get an education. I’m a physician, I encourage for everyone to participate in these types of events. These events

help fundraise for cancer research,

Breast Cancer Walk/Run continue on Page 11

Want to know about what’s happening on campus? Visit: thesouthtexan.com

Campus

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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Javelina Alumni in the Spotlight Meet the

Mentors

Homecoming tradition honors several alumni ILIANA FLORES Managing Editor As homecoming week at Javelina Nation neared its end, eight individuals received awards from the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Alumni Association at the annual Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony and dinner on Oct. 25.

Each year during homecoming week, the Alumni Association chooses to honor several people whose success impacts society and inspires others to do great things. According to the Alumni Association website, they award those whose actions reflect the excellence of being a Javelina and the importance of service.

“Tonight, we celebrate excellence.

Collectively, our Rising Stars and Distinguished Alumni exemplify careers that are defined by excellence, leadership and service,” TAMUK President Dr. Hussey said. “These men and women stand as role models to today’s students who aspire to emulate their extraordinary success.”

At the 2019 ceremony, three individuals received the Distinguished Alumni Awards - Lisa Carrington Firmin class of 1979, Jake Collins class of 1972 and Richard Ritchie class of 1977.

Collins is a Kingsville native who graduated from Texas A&I in 1972.

Since her graduation, Collins has con-

Johnathan Jones is a student mentor at the Center for Student Success. He is a sophomore studying Accounting and is from Houston, Texas. Here is more about him.

Photo by Iliana Flores

Richard Ritchie (center) receives Distinguisg Alumni Award presented by President Hussey during Homecoming week.

tinued to support Javelina Nation as she attends every football game and takes care of the real life Javelina Porky. For her, winning the award holds a lot of meaning.

“I am just totally overwhelmed that I have gotten this award. It just means a lot because I am continuing on for this university and I love it and I tell everybody about it,” Collins said.

Along with these two awards, two individuals received the Rising Star Award; this award is given to alumni

Photo by Iliana Flores

Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Lisa Carrington Firmin, expresses her gratitude after recieving Distinguish Alumni Award.

who have graduated from TAMUK within the last 15 years. This year’s awardees were Dr. Brian McFall class of 2005 and 2008 and Christina Unda class of 2005.

Awards were also given to Dr. Christine Reiser Robbins, professor of Anthropology, who received the Distinguished Teaching Award and Dr. Jinbgo Louise Liu, professor, Department of Chemistry, received the Distinguished Research Award.

For the first time, one person was awarded the Blue and Gold Service Award.

This new award is given to individuals, businesses and organizations that did not graduate from Javelina Nation who are connected to the university and community, have Javelina Spirit, and support the values and mission of TAMUK. Kingsville Mayor Sam Fugate was the first recipient of the Blue and Gold Service Award.

“The first recipient of this award is a die-hard Javelina supporter who might as well be a Javelina alumn. Growth and partnership have been a core relationship this recipient has with Javelina Nation and our local communities,” the Vice President of Institutional Advancement & External Relations and CEO of Texas A&M-Kingsville Foundation Brad Walker said.

Expires 10-17-19 Expires 11-07-19

What are you hobbies?

My favorite hobbies are to play video games and read novels.

What do you look forward to as a student mentor?

I look forward to helping students get comfortable in college.

What are your goals?

My goal, as a mentor, is to guide students to a successful future.

If you could pick an actor to play you in a movie who would it be?

Why? I would choose Chris Tucker. He is entertaining and is always able to make people laugh.

What is the best part of being a TAMUK student?

The best part about being a TAMUK student is the sense of community.

Everyone is outgoing and willing to help if needed.

Which song best describes your life?

The song that best describes my life is Me, Myself, and I by G-Eazy.

What lesson do you hope to teach your students?

I hope the lesson I teach my students is to remain independent.

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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Opinion

Want to join the conversation?

Visit us at: thesouthtexan.com

Sister school shooting hits close to home

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 COSIO

Contributing Writer It is time to make a change for our safety. How many shootings does it take for us to realize it? How many people must die to make change?

Saturday, Oct. 26, the most recent shooting occurred. The shots rang out at 11:45 p.m. and by 12:10 a.m. authorities reported many injuries. Approximately 750 people were in attendance and two were killed, and 14 were sent to the hospital for their injuries.

What was supposed to be like any other fun night for a college student quickly turned into a night of horror.

The reason for the shooting is currently unknown.

This incident happened at our sister school Texas A&M University-Commerce. This could happen to us and as we have seen all across the country that is it is probable and even possible.

What stops this from happening here?

It is a scary question to ask but it needs to be asked.

We need to ask why. Why do we continue to let this happen around the

Photo courtesy of nbcdfw.com

2 dead, 14 injured after shooting near Texas A&M Commerce. country? Why do we do nothing to save ourselves?

Just six days earlier there was a shooting at Port Arthur. It happened at 2:30 a.m. on Vicksburg Avenue. Three people were injured, a bystander and a mother of two were killed.

Then two days later there was a shooting in the same place.

This shows how often it can happen and even in the same place. Those who say it is isolated events all over the country need to look at this. Even though this isn’t a huge amount of people, why does it even have to exist?

Even when there are huge amounts

of people dying, change is not occurring. What the country receives is prayers from our leaders. What we need from our leaders is change.

I am not saying we need to ban guns altogether.

There is no way to do that and have it be effective to the issue at hand. We have seen in our history that getting rid of it all together is not the solution.

This can be seen during the ban of alcohol. People always find a way to get what they want.

I am saying we need to find the middle ground on the problem and the solution.

Distillation regulation frustration

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 University-Kingsville Kingsville, Texas 78363

ADAM PENA Reporter The state of Tennessee is renowned for two things: Nashville, the “birthplace” of country music, and Tennessee whiskey. As it turns out, the state of Tennessee is very protective of their image, especially when it comes to their whiskey.

On May 13, 2013, the Tennessee state congress passed House Bill No. 1084, which the wording states that “an intoxicating liquor may not be advertised, described, labeled, named sold or referred to for marketing or sales purposes as Tennessee Whiskey,” unless it meets certain requirements, including being manufactured in Tennessee, filtered through maple charcoal prior to aging, aged in new, charred oak barrels in Tennessee or be distilled to no more than 160 proof or eighty percent alcohol by volume” This law allows for other types of whiskey to be produced in the state, but they cannot be advertised as Tennessee whiskey. According to USA To-

Photo courtesy of thinkliquor.com

‘Big Whiskey’ suppresses small distilleries. day, Tennessee follows the precedent of codifying what can and cannot be defined as Tennessee whiskey set by alcohol makers from Scotland and France, who have formed committees around establishing the definition of scotch whiskey and champagne respectively.

Jack Daniel’s, a staple name in whiskey production, lobbied heavily in support of the law, according to a 2014 NPR article.

The reasoning behind this, according to Jack Daniel’s themselves, is that House Bill No. 1084 guards whiskey manufacturers against “knockoff, lower-quality alcohol.”

However, not everyone agrees with the state’s definition of Tennessee whiskey.

Others have argued that the law protects the giant distilleries who have left their distilling process relatively unchanged for over a century, while disadvantaging newer micro-distilleries who want to innovate traditional distilling methods to produce their own unique product.

While it doesn’t prohibit these newcomers from selling their product in Tennessee, it does prevent them from labelling it as “Tennessee whiskey,” which could hurt sales.

It is easy to see why Jack Daniel’s would support such a law, as it not only solidifies their whiskey-making process in law, but edges out potential competition wishing to deviate from the norm.

Send us your opinion through our website: thesouthtexan.com

Opinion

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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Youth does not equal health immunity

GABRIELLA MASTROIANNI

Reporter

Growing up we are told by adults myths and theories such as the existence of a Tooth Fairy or Santa Claus, and if we drink coffee it will stunt your growth or if you make an ugly face it will stay that way permanently.

However, one infamous mythical theory that many adults told us growing up is: “you’re young you can eat whatever you want.”

Let’s dissect this phrase; while yes the phrase could mean that young people can digest unhealthy food properly, but it mainly means that no matter what we eat we will turn out perfectly fine. Youth has nothing to do with how we should eat. In fact, being in the young era of our lives is the most critical time to eat healthy.

Since the beginning of life we are in need of nutrients and healthy balanced food.

As children grow older there is still a continued need for nutrients to help

Photo courtesy of CNN.com

The first step to a healthy self is a balanced diet. the body grow and develop properly, especially when entering adulthood.

However, around the young teen era is when we start to hear “you’re young you can eat whatever you want,” and that’s around the age where child obesity and type 2 diabetes develops, which is increasing rapidly in the U.S. Childhood obesity is a very common disease with more than over three million cases in the U.S. The cause: regularly eating high calorie food such as fast foods, unhealthy snacks, sugary drinks and over indulgence in sweets.

This disease causes a series of health risks such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, sleep disorders, low self-esteem and even depression. As young college students now is the time more than ever to throw away that old phrase and start making healthier food choices. And while we are trying to live our best broke college life, we can still make healthy choices both in and outside of the dining hall.

With how busy our lives can be with finals coming up, organizations and competitions we are a part of, main-

taining relationships and friendships and making time for family and ourselves we tend to take the easy route when it comes to eating and choose whatever is fast and ready to go.

Just because we’re young does not mean our bodies are indestructible and uncapable of developing serious health problems.

Lack of responsibility to eat healthy and maintain our bodies properly is concerning. We are young, but that certainly does not mean we can eat whatever we like.

Man on the Street This Week’s Question:

“In light of the shooting this weekend near A&M Commerce, do you feel safe on campus?”

Name: Stephanie Trevino Major: Criminal Science “Its Kingsville, so nothing really happens here. I feel moderately safe.

If that were to happen here, I don’t know where I would go. I feel pretty safe here though.”

Compiled by: Kelby Sprinkles

Name: Celia Cobos Major: Business Management “I feel fine here, but I feel like it’s more the mentality that it won’t happen to us. As a whole, I feel safe and just in case, I have pepper spray.”

Name: Leeandra Montano Major: Accounting “It’s not the first shooting of course, so we are always cautious. At TAMUK, I do feel safe because I always see police patrol. At tailgates, there are police there. They always have security around us. At a certain point, I feel somewhat afraid, but I also feel safe.

Sadly, this is just another shooting.”

Name: Erik Perez Renovato Major: Political Science “I think off-campus is where the issues are at. Here on campus, they do have patrols going around as well as the policies we have in place on campus. We also can’t have weapons on campus. Even though open carry is allowed, we can’t have them here on campus. This was just something the university couldn’t have prevented.

Also, the culture around here is different than that of Commerce. I would be more worried if the culture here was different.”

Homecoming

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Thursday, October 31, 2019

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Javelina Nation’s ‘Moment in the Spotlight’ Javelinas of all ages gathered at a variety of events the week of Oct. 21-to Oct. 26 to celebrate 2019 Homecoming at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. From Fall Carnival to Hog Call to the Homecoming football game, current, past and future Hoggies partook in TAMUK traditions and displayed the pride and honor of representing Javelina Nation. To commemorate this year’s homceoming, here are photos of Javelinas enjoying their “moment in the spotlight!”

SOBER SPIRITS

Photo courtesy of Student Health and Wellness

PARADE

Photos by C.R. Neal

CONCERT

Photos by Micaela Cosio

Photo by Brenda Riojas

TAILGATE & HOMECOMING COURT

Photos by Aryssa Enriquez

FALL CARNIVAL Photos by Calista Reyes

HOG CALL

Photos by Gabriella Mastrioanni

Photo by Dylan Dozier

Photo by Iliana Flores

Photo by Dylan Dozier

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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Sports

For live game updates Follow us on Twitter: @thesouthtexan

Javelinas fall to No. 4 Texans, 45-33

Despite career high for Detmer, TAMUK falters at homecoming EDGAR SOLIS Contributing Writer

The Javelinas competed and showed improvement during their homecoming game against number four in the nation Tarleton State Saturday. Although they lost, quarterback Koy Detmer Jr. had a career day as he threw for 450 yards and three touchdowns, with Darrian Hambrick being his most reliable weapon for the night catching 12 passes for 151 yards and one touchdown.

Detmer’s performance made him the fourth quarterback in school history to throw for more than 400 yards.

Although the Javelinas lost, Coach David Wilkinson was proud and had nothing but good words for his team.

“The type of football we played tonight is what we were trying to get to all year, where every single snap of the entire game our people were competing,” Wilkinson said.

He then continued by praising the team’s offense.

“I’m really proud of the offense, especially the way we played tonight,” he said.

The team started the game with a 29-yard field goal in the opening drive that was kicked by freshman Romario Perez. The visitors quickly responded with a 49-yard touchdown pass thrown

by Ben Holmes to Zimari Manning.

In the first drive of the second quarter the Javelinas found the lead again when Detmer connected with Alan Smith for 15 yards to get the lead 10-7.

During the next six minutes, Tarleton

Amonte Bowen rolls over a Texan defender. went on a hot streak scoring 17 unanswered points.

In the second half, the Javelinas matched Tarleton throughout the rest of the game. Although the offense kept putting points on the board, the defense could not keep Tarleton from scoring. Containing running back Daniel McCants was the Javelina defense’s

main problem. McCants rushed for 250 yards and scored four touchdowns for Tarleton. The Javelinas ended the game with a five-yard touchdown pass from Detmer to Devin Milburn but that was not enough to take the lead and the game ended 45-33.

Detmer Jr. the game of his career finding 10 different receivers through-

Photo by Dylan Dozier

out the game with Milburn and Hambrick being the most targeted receivers, each with more than 100 yards in the game.

As for the defense, Josh Wilson led the group in tackles with nine.

The Javelinas will travel to play against Western New Mexico next Saturday, Nov. 2.

Blue and Gold jumps off basketball season with Javelina Madness

Men and women take to court for intersquad games amidst festivities HECTOR LANDIN Sports Reporter

On Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Steinke Physical Education Center (SPEC) fans swarmed into the gymnasium to gather their t-shirt and pizza as promised to the first 200 fans to support both the Javelina Men and Women basketball teams in their annual Javelina Madness.

Both of the teams took the court for the first time this season in front of a welcoming environment full of Javelina Nation. The highly promoted event on various social platforms consisted of many giveaways including an LG sound bar, two tickets to the men’s exhibition opener against Texas A&M in College Station on Nov. 1, two parking passes (valid for this year and next year), student Aramark cash, and mul-

tiple gift card opportunities to restaurants in the surrounding areas. Each fan who attended the event would place their name on a ticket given to them by the TAMUK cheerleaders to participate in the multiple giveaway opportunities throughout the night.

Fans were able to participate in events such as the Hot Shot competition, Dizzy Bat Race, Bounce of Fortune with players from each team to assist them in the contests. At the event, the group Enrollment Management was announced as the winner of the Homecoming Parade that took place prior to Javelina Madness at the SPEC. As for the teams showcasing their newly acquired and returning talent at Javelina Madness, the Javelina Men and Women basketball teams are both looking to make an impactful splash in the newly designed Lone Star Conference that consists of plenty of new foes. Led by Head Coach Johnny Estelle (Waco, Texas), the Javelina Men’s

Javelina Madness Continued on Page 10

John Guerra attacks the rim.

Photo by Aryssa Enriquez

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Sports

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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Sweat out your stress at the Rec

Mind and body come together in Mindful Yoga NICKO BOLEWARE Contributing Writer

Mindful Yoga was on the menu this week for the Student Recreational organization at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Yoga is a Hindu spiritual practice that focuses on breath control, simple meditation and the adoption of specific bodily postures. Yoga is practiced worldwide for health/relaxation of the human body and mind. At TAMUK, the program is available to all students.

Stress among students is imminent because of the workload and amount of responsibility placed on their shoulders at such a young age. Along with that, chronic stress is linked to the six leading causes of death. The student recreation center provides a mindful yoga program that gives students a chance to clear their mind of any stress, and practicing meditation can lower the chances of a student enduring chronic stress.

The program has aided students across campus by creating a sort of “safe haven” away from coursework.

“Mindful Yoga has been helpful in many ways since I have started the class. It allows me to get out and have something to do rather than being home always doing work. I am able to open my mind and relax while at the same time getting some exercise in. Mostly, I feel like it helps with re-

lieving the pressure that I have with school, work, apartment rent, etc.,” new student attendee Vanessa Ramos said.

Also speaking with other students who have attended the program a lit-

Cross Country closes out with conference race Robles, Yanez claim top spots for Javelina XC EDGAR SOLIS Contributing Writer

The Lone Star Conference Championships for Cross Country finished up on Saturday morning.

West Texas A&M finished first in the men’s event, with Lubbock Christian in second and Cameron taking third place.

For the women’s race, it was Lubbock Christian in first place, West Texas A&M in second and Eastern New Mexico took the third place spot.

Crossing the finish line first for the men’s team was freshman Devin Robles with a time of 28:11.00 and a 68th place finish. On the women’s team, senior Monica Yanez was the first Javelina to finish the race at 26:08.72 to grab

Photo courtesy of pixabay.com

A yoga practicioner holds a pose.

the 81st spot.

The men’s team ended the weekend with a 16th place finish with a total time of 2:33.49.40.

Junior Angel Martinez was the second Javelina to cross the line coming in at 90th in 29:02.30.

Juniors Jasiah Patterson and David Tellez came in at 118th and 125th, respectively. Patterson posted a time of 30:39.40 and Tellez had a time of 32:01.00.

The final Javelina to cross the finish line was freshman Matthew Aparicio who grabbed the 128th spot with a time of 33:55.70.

For the women’s team, senior Victoria Jaime was the second Javelina to cross the finish line, placing 119th with a time of 29:03.77.

Just a few spots away was junior Larissa Sanchez Gonzalez in 121st coming in with a time of 29:03.77.

Junior Lauren Rodriguez wasn’t far behind coming in at 130th at 31:11.43.

This was the last guaranteed meet for the Javlinas. Competitors will continue racing towards winter at the NCAA South Central Regional Championships in Canyon, Texas, next month.

tle longer along with the other power yoga and regular yoga classes helped demonstrate how yoga can be beneficial to students in the long run.

“Mindful yoga is different from regular yoga and power yoga because it

focuses on relaxing the mind specifically. I have attended since the program began and over time I have found myself becoming more organized and less frazzled in stressful situations,” Nathan Luke said.

Sports

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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

Volleyball struggles on the road

Lauren Kadilis bumps service against Midwestern State.

TAMUK efforts fall short in conference play SABRINA GONZALEZ Sports Reporter

Over the weekend, the Blue and Gold were in Wichita Falls, Texas, go-

ing up against the Midwestern State University Mustangs and in Denton, Texas, taking on the Texas Woman’s University Pioneers.

After these matches, the Javelinas are now 7-5 in conference and 16-10 overall.

The weekend started off with a match against the Mustangs where MSU defeated the Javelinas after four sets (25-12, 13-25, 25-21, 25-17). Junior Roxanne Morris and sophomore Lauren Kadilis both posted double-doubles for the Javelinas.

Women’s basketball tips off 2019-2020.

Photo courtesy of Javelina athletics

Morris knocked 12 kills and grabbed 13 digs, while Kadilis picked up 12 digs and 36 assists. Junior Meghan Merlino slammed down 13 kills for the Javelinas. In the first set, the home team quickly jumped on top after a close start to take the win. MSU started off on top in the second set and that would be the only lead they took in this set.

The Mustangs evened the score but TAMUK came back to steal the second set.

After the teams tied it up the Javs took the lead several times in the next

two sets, but weren’t able to pull off another win.

The Javelinas finished up their weekend in Denton against TWU. Despite four hard fought sets by the Blue and Gold the Pioneers took the win at home (25-23, 19-25, 25-15, 25-20).

Sophomore Jordan Wonders led the team with 10 kills. Sophomore Nicole Murff picked up 16 digs in the match, and senior Talleyshia Morris had six blocks.

The match started with a tough first set during which the lead changed several times. Although the Javs took the lead late in the game, they couldn’t hold on to it and dropped the first set.

The second set went similar to the first but this time it was the Blue and Gold that came out on top. The Javelinas started out on top in the third set but the Pioneers came back full force to steal the third set. In the final set, the Javs nearly came back, but were unable to make up the lead that the Pioneers had put up.

After coming out of a tough weekend the Javelinas are putting it behind them and focusing on their next opponents.

“We’re always focusing on the next team, we’re never focusing on the weekends before,” junior Kapri Pelle said. “We’re working as hard as we can in practice on certain things we struggle in game; it’s a big week for us.”

Javelina Volleyball will be back in action at home at 6 p.m. Nov. 1 and at 2 p.m. Nov. 2 at the Gilbert E. Steinke Physical Education Center in Kingsville.

Javelina team members go mano-a-mano.

Javelina Madness Continued from Page 8

Photo by Aryssa Enriquez

Basketball Team returns key pieces including seniors John Mouton (Houston, Texas), Rashon Thomas (Houston, Texas), Daniel Severo (Osaco, Brazil), Kyren Block (San Antonio, Texas) and Chauncey Thomas (Plano, Texas). During the off-season, Estelle and his staff acquired a few key additions including Creighton Avery (Corpus Christi, Texas), Tre Flowers (College Station, Texas), Ellis Jones (Houston, Texas), and Sammy Brooks (Dallas, Texas). The men’s basketball team will begin their 2019-2020 season against an SEC opponent Texas A&M in College Station on Nov. 1, and then will return to the SPEC on Nov. 8 to face South Dakota Mines in their home opener in front of the Blue and Gold.

As for the women’s basketball team, led by Michael Madrid, in his first year at the helm, players are looking to build off their Lone Star Conference berth led by their leading scorer from

Photo by Aryssa Enriquez

last season Brynae Thompson (Houston, Texas) as well as seniors Danielle Meador (Corpus Christi, Texas), and returners Bri-Anna Soliz (San Angelo, Texas) and Ravae Payne (Pearland, Texas). The women’s basketball team will make its 2019-2020 season debut against Prairie View A&M in Prairie View, Texas, on Nov. 5 before making their home debut against UT Permian Basin at the SPEC on Dec. 19 after a slate of consecutive road games.

At the end of the event, head coach of the men’s basketball Estelle gave a message to Javelina Nation and the fans in attendance, by saying, “This was an unbelievable night. I want to thank our fans, our parents, our grandparents that came. I want to thank the players and the administration.

“When I get to talk about this place that has been so good to me over the years, I can’t say it in one or two words. I came back for the next generation to feel about this place the way I do. I coach for my guys and I coach for you, so come support us this season.”

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

News and Jumps

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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Flores honored for community service

TABE awards professor for his work at the Tejano Civil Rights Museum RONNI REYNA Contributing Writer

Dr. Manuel Flores was selected by the Texas Association for Bilingual Education as the Joe Bernal Community Service Honoree at the TABE conference earlier this month.

“It’s nice to be recognized for your community service,” Flores said. “I felt very honored to be honored by the Texas Association of Bilingual Educators.

“I am very familiar with bilingual education; it started here,” Flores continued. “We have the first bilingual education doctorate here at A&M Kingsville, we were the first ones. It was a result of the Chicano movement that was very strong here in Kingsville on campus. They asked to have a bilingual degree and we got it. State

senator Carlos Truan, he pushed for this degree and we were the first in the state to really get a solid bilingual program that we have now.”

Flores is familiar with the association and has given presentations for them before.

“It’s a big honor because this is a big state association and they only select people that they feel really deserve it,” he said.

Flores stressed the continual need for bilingual education.

“Bilingual education is still needed so from that stand I feel honored that this very busy association took the time to give me an award,” Flores said. “Some people thought there would be a time where bilingual education would just fade away, well it’s not fading away and it’s not going to fade away anytime soon. It’s just a tool

to help certain students get over the fear of doing well in school.”

Joe Bernal was recognized in 2013 by the TABE for his “contributions to the implementation of educational policies that promote equal educational opportunity and academic excellence. Dr. Bernal, a San Antonio native, has served as State Representative, State Senator, and as a member of the Texas State Board of Education.

“He has dedicated his life to promoting access to education at all levels,” as stated on the TABE web site.

“Dr. Flores is being recognized for his work at the Tejano Civil Rights Museum in Corpus Christi, where he has been instrumental in developing programming,” Todd Lucas, Department Chair of Communications, said.

Photo Courtesy of Javelina Athletics

Manuel Flores, Ph D.

Business college hosts annual economic forum BRENDA RIOJAS Reporter

The College of Business Administration hosted its ninth annual economic forum which focuses on a study of the economic conditions in Kleberg, McCulloch and Zapata counties.

It was held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 29, in the Grand Ballrooms of the Student Memorial Building.

These three Texas counties all have a similar oil well count. The host for this year was Christi Craddick with the Railroad Commission of Texas.

“Roads are important, pipelines are important and rails are important,” Craddick said.

Citizens drive on these roads and marketing of the ports is going to increase infrastructure needs.

Dr. Thomas Krueger with the College of Business Administration presented three primary components which included demographic aspects, economic conditions and the economic survey.

Each component was introduced in a

question and answer format with five main questions.

The first component, the demographic aspect, determines the county’s populations, age distributions, ethnicities, education levels and housing statistics.

The second component, the economic conditions, studied the county’s cost of living, the poverty wage and minimum wage.

The final component includes personnel, Kleberg County and United States’ economic health over the coming year. It also gave the perspective of Texas A&M University-Kingsville’s support of business for the last nine years.

“The economic forum brings together business managers, political leaders and university personnel to evaluate the current economic conditions and plan for the future,” Dr. Krueger said.

Bringing managers, political leaders and students together was a huge part of the survey in determining the demographic and economic conditions of Kleberg County and in Texas.

“It opens your eyes to exactly what kind of opportunities are out there

Breast Cancer Walk/Run continued from Page 2 also helps create awareness,” Andrea Gerla, alumnus and participant of the 5K, said.

For many participants this event has become a yearly tradition. Several alumni come out and support the cause in creating awareness.

“This is my second year participating in the 5K. It is important to support these event so we support our community and help find a cure…Everybody is friendly and helpful and it’s an overall good experience,” Irasema Garza, alumnus and participant of the 5K, said.

Awards were granted to the highest donor and the first runner and walker to complete the 5K. Participants started their 5K at the courtyard and worked

their way around campus. Students directed participants throughout the trail and had water stations set up.

“I like to run, I just wanted to come out and support, give back to the breast cancer community and help raise money,” Matthew Almarez, the first place runner, said.

The community and the university joined together and made an impact on breast cancer awareness month.

Photo Courtesy of tamuk.edu

Photo Courtesy of rrc.state.tx.us

Dr. Thomas Kruger

Christi Craddick

whenever you graduate or just while you’re here in school and the type of work you want to be in,” Sarahi Vasquez, marketing major student, said.

This annual event brings to light different types of information and insight on the economic background of Kleberg County, and the importance of the oil and gas industry.

Dr. Krueger ended with more insight and the purpose of the Economic Forum.

“This economic forum is just designed to help you understand a little bit about what’s going on in terms of the demographics, the economics and what people are seeing, their biggest concerns, how they spend money, where they see the future,” he said.

Thursday, October 31, 2019

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News

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REFLEX-ME receives influx of funds

Engineering program promoting minorities in STEM fields gets grant MARK GUTIERREZ Reporter There are new opportunities on the horizon, as Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) earned a grant to aid minority students in the engineering and science field.

Thanks to the United States Department of Education TAMUK will receive approximately $749,196 for project Research, Education and Financial Literacy Excellence for Minority-focused Engagement or REFLEX-ME. According to the award summary, “The program will focus on improving students learning outcomes, educational benefits, and awareness and knowledge of financial literacy and professional development for Texas A&M University-Kingsville engineering and science minority students, especially women.”

There is a deep reason for proposing REFLEX-ME. “Many of our students face obstacles in their access to a STEM education, while others who are already pursuing a STEM field may face nonacademic obstacles such as financial insecurity or lack of career readiness,” Dr. Jaya S. Goswami, associate vice president for Academic Affairs, said. “It is hoped that through the grant activities, these obstacles will be easier to overcome.”

It’s expected for the staff of TAMUK

to be concerned for the well being of the students. The minority students who do not have the access for such opportunities are now welcomed for an equal chance at expanding their knowledge.

“TAMUK has an overall 80 percent of students that are racial minority groups and underrepresented in STEM education according to the National Center of Educational Statistics (NCES).

Students who pursue STEM degrees often drop out and fewer of those who complete are women or minorities according to NCES report. The report also observed that the underserved students, which included minority, first-generation in college, and low-income students are at a huge disadvantage in STEM,” Dr. Photo Courtesy of tamuk.edu Hua Li, associate professor and in- Engineering students taking notes in class. dustrial engineering graduate coordinator, said. “We will support the necessary STEM skilled and eduThe students of TAMUK are pleased participated in the past,” Cedric Cercated workforce required for the 21st with the grant and upcoming project da, electrical engineering major, said, century by providing access to knowl- as word continues to travel around. “This may be a breakthrough for many edge and state-of-the-art technologies There is hope for the minority of stu- students that come from low income for Hispanics and other underrepre- dents who struggle to extend their environments. Many students in the sented minority students at TAMUK education, but their peers continue to Valley worry for economical finances and in South Texas. We will also pro- show interest in their future. for college.” vide early preparation to freshman “I am glad that minorities and womIt’s quite the sight to witness the students to get them ready for senior en are to be awarded this privilege. university taking consideration for design projects and improve their per- The [number] of women engineers the students and future students who sonal financial literacy and profession- are growing rapidly, as I’ve seen in want to be involved in pursuing their al development skills.” my classes, [and] in internships I have engineering field.