The South Texan The Award-Winning Texas A&M University-Kingsville Student Publication
Thursday, November 7, 2019 Volume 94, Issue 10 TheSouthTexan.com
Dia de los Muertos
Football
Page 3
Page 8
Students build altars in Sam Fore Hall in honor of Day of the Dead.
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A dandy new restaurant enters the fray Local restaurant expands its business into the university ARYSSA ENRIQUEZ Campus Editor After gaining recognition within the local community, Dandy’s Burgers and Texas A&M University-Kingsville are engaged in a partnership that goes together like burgers and fries. Following a well-received trial run, Dandy’s Burgers can now be found at the Memorial Student Union Building. “Expanding into the university has been fun. It comes with its challenges like any other business when expanding such as building a bigger team and training but over a great opportunity… Aramark, who runs dining at TAMUK, was looking to add to the university and we both felt it’d be a great idea. Since we already have a large student customer base the move seemed simple,” owner of Dandy’s Eliu Cazares said. Lunch time is a rush hour for Dandy’s Burgers. Students can be seen lined up around Dandy’s Burgers for a quick bite before class. With a variety of toppings and flavors, Dandy’s Burgers stands out from other food options. Dandy’s Burgers is in the MSUB two days out of the week on Wednesdays
and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The addition of guest restaurants gives students a wide range of options for lunch and dinner. “I’ve been wanting a good burger place in town since I came to Kingsville. When Dandy’s opened it became my go-to place for food when I was off campus. Now that they’re a visiting restaurant I don’t have to leave campus for a burger. Having other restaurants in the SUB or on campus provides me with more diversity for lunch or supper rather than eating Subway like I normally do,” Gina Merzbacher, agricultural business major, said. Dandy’s Burgers is local restaurant that quickly picked up clientele upon opening. The unique home-made burger makes Dandy’s Burgers a muststop in Kingsville. “I think having Dandy’s in the SUB is great. It gives us the opportunity to eat something else that isn’t your traditional chain restaurants and it helps students get a taste of what local restaurants are here in Kingsville. I also think that it’s a great way for us to help the locals here in Kingsville….I do wish more places like Dandy’s would come to campus so we can try new foods and be able to see what other options we have here in Kingsville and help out local business as well,” Erik Zamora,
Photo Courtesy of Facebook
Local burger restaurant moves into the SUB twice a week. range and wildlife major, said. Students can look forward to a tasty burger at the SUB and the opportunity to support local businesses. Cazares was flattered with the opportunity to collaborate with TAMUK and looks
forward to other partnering ideas with Aramark. “It meant a great deal to me as a TAMUK alumni and having the opportunity to come and serve is a wonderful feeling,” Cazares said.
Enrollment is free, free falling
TAMUK enrollment drops 13 percent from last fall C.R. NEAL Editor-in-Chief The university’s preliminary enrollment numbers for this semester have finally been released to The South Texan, and the university is looking at a 13 percent drop in enrollment since last fall. This 13 percent accounts for more than 1,000 students who have left the university. International students account for 245 of those lost, and dual-enrollment students account for 170. Texas A&M University-Kingsville has seen a tremendous drop in international enrollment since 2016. Among the factors thought to be in play are all the changes in U.S. immigration policy that make it tougher for residents of certain countries to receive a U.S. Visa. Vice President of Enrollment Management Maureen Croft, Ph.D couldn’t say for sure if all of the immigration talk in the country has made students
change their minds about coming to the U.S. for higher education. “We’ve seen a global market that’s become more competitive as one factor. We don’t really know. There are surveys out there; there are lots of different thoughts on it. I’m not so sure we really know, or have a great handle on it,” Croft said. Schools in the Rio Grande Valley have pulled back from TAMUK’s dual enrollment program, which explains those losses. Croft explained that these schools found other avenues for collegiate experiences, and as a result TAMUK is no longer sending professors to the Valley. “We had for a long time seen it as our mission to go in and offer dual-enrollment in areas that didn’t have it. That model is more expensive, because obviously we would have to pay for professors to go, especially in the Valley,” Croft said. Administrators are searching for the reasons that caused this decline,
and formulating solutions to get enrollment back on track based on these statistics. “When you use data to do these
things you know where you need to
Enrollment continued on Page 11
Campus Career Services helping students get informed
Have an upcoming event for us to cover? Email us at: thesouthtexan@tamuk.edu
Thursday, November 7, 2019
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Graduate programs, potential employers at TAMUK BRENDA RIOJAS Reporter
Texas A&M University-Kingsville is committed to helping students achieve success after graduation. Career Services hosted a graduate and professional school fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 31, at the Memorial Student Union Ballrooms. The fair is designed to help guide students into higher education or kickstart their career. Many schools and employers were ready to answer questions and discuss admissions into their programs or requirements for a job. “It’s a chance to learn about graduate programs including ours and what we have available, we also invite other universities because we know that we have students wanting to go into law or medicine. “The schools talk about how to apply into their programs, admission dates, financial aid. We want to provide our students with different options and through this event they can talk to over 40 employers,” Assistant Director of Career Services, Paige de Vaudrecourt, said. The graduate and professional fair is an opportunity for students to gain
Photo by Brenda Riojas
Students gain opportunity to learn about different graduate programs and potential jobs at the Graduate and Professional Fair.
knowledge and explore different options before entering the workforce. The fair is not just an invitation for graduate students, it’s for anyone looking to continue their education or in search of a job. “I think it’s important because you’re able to find out more about different colleges and there might be somewhere you didn’t even know that they offered the program you’re interested in,” Arion Martinez, animal science major, said. Finding out what other programs might have to offer gave different options and unique insights to students.
“I’m getting close to graduation and even though I plan on applying to one school I still want to make sure I have my options open,” Martinez said. The variety of schools gave students the option to expand their choices on programs and research they might be interested in. The free event had no dress requirement, although most students were dressed business casual to impress administration and employers. Most schools and employers were willing to offer future interviews and internships. “Both the employers and the schools interested me because I can take either
route. I can go to grad school or I can work so it just depends on really what I decide to do,” Nelly Garcia, communications and science disorders student, said. Students roamed the ballrooms and arrived between classes. Students who attended received contact information and merchandise from the schools and companies present. “I’m considering graduate school, so I feel like this is a good opportunity to see the schools around and their programs, to see how I could further my education,” Alec Gonzales, mechanical engineering major, said.
Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer On Halloween night the RJK History club, Criminology Club and Phi Alpha Theta invited students to dive into the mind of a serial killer through a documentary. The documentary explored the psychology and motives that drove the criminals to commit crimes. Students were able to enjoy the documentary with free candy and popcorn.
Photos by Kelby Sprinkles
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Campus
Dia de los Muertos altar competition Students honor Day of the Dead through colorful altars
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Meet the Mentors
ARYSSA ENRIQUEZ Campus Editor Sugar skulls, lit candles, decorative alters arranged the halls, its Day of the Dead. To showcase the traditions of Dia de los Muertos, Sigma Delta Pi organizes an altar competition. In this year’s competition four groups were assembled and created an altar. Premont High School, Unity Club, Freer High School and Sigma Delta Pi commemorated their loved ones through the tradition of an alter and competed for $100. Day of the Dead goes deeper than Photo by Aryssa Enriquez altars it’s a time of remembrance of Premont High School places first in altar competition. family members. During Day of the favorite items,” Advisor of Sigma Delta things, ranging from flowers to a loved Dead cultural traditions are highlight- Pi, Dr. Marco Iniguez said. one’s favorite dish. ed throughout Latin America. The streets of many Latin American Traditionally people place symbol“The value of Dia de los Muertos is countries are filled with parades, em- ic items that belonged to their loved having an opportunity to commemo- phasizing the traditions of Day of the ones to help them remember who their rate people who have passed away and Dead. Day of the Dead creates a hu- loved one was and get an opportunity share their experiences, history, legacy, merous perspective towards death to share family stories. their influence, their actions. In essence and is often used to shine a light in the “Putting Dia de los Muertos bread, no one is really dead if we remember wrongdoings of society. water so they can drink and visit loved them. Altars are a way to remember However, one of the most iconic ones, any of their possessions on their our loved ones they host our loved symbols for Day of the Dead is an al- favorite items including memorabilia ones; memorabilia and some of their tar, usually consisting of a variety of and not just items that help us remember them. We leave food so they can join us in a meal,” Sigma Delta Pi President, Danny Olvera said. Premont High School created the winning alter, with a cultural mix of memorabilia and special items. The altars in Sam Fore displayed iconic figures of Hispanic Heritage, leaders, and themes the groups throught was important to commemorate. The colorful altars create a cultural space and help other students learn about Hispanic traditions. “It’s important to celebrate Dia de los Muertos to honor the loves that have passed and celebrate their life. Death is a part of the cycle of life, but that doesn’t mean that they will be forgotten…Dia de los Muertos symbolizes our respect for our past ones and the offering we make are to help them through their journey in the afterlife,” Animal Science major, Gisel Mireles said. Photo by Aryssa Enriquez
Unity’s altar for Day of Dead competition
Expires 10-17-19 Expires 11-14-19
Sophia Jones is a student mentor at Center for Student Success. Jones is a junior studying Biology and is from Johnson City, Tenn. Here is more about her. What are your hobbies? When I’m not studying I enjoy working out, watching my shows on Netflix, and snacking. What do you look forward to as a student mentor? As a mentor, I look forward to serving the students that come to me. Whether it be for scholarships, academic inquiries or time management, seeing them grow and progress really makes me happy. What are your goals? My academic goals are to continue my education in medical school. If you could pick an actor to play you in a movie who would it be? Why? If I could play an actor in any movie it would be Cady Heron from “Mean Girls” because I think that is such a classic funny movie. What is the best part of being a TAMUK student? I think that the best part of being a TAMUK student is all of the support that is available to help students succeed. From the PAAC to Career Services, I feel like I have all of the resources necessary to ensure my academic success. What song best describes your life? The song that best describes my life right now is “Good Thing” by Zedd.
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Opinion
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Helping the homeless
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
MICAELA COSIO Contributing Writer It’s come to that time of the year when we all come together. We tend to gather at each other’s homes and celebrate all that we have. But where do people who have no home go? Where do they go to get away from the cold air nipping at their noses? Where do they go to be close with the people they love? Do they have somewhere to enjoy a meal? Do they have somewhere to go to feel safe? You may ask why does this matter or what can we do? This matters because they are people like us and any different choice in life and it could have been us. We can help by learning about their situation and going from there. People look down on the people on the sidewalk and think that they are better than them. Yet they do not know how they got there or what they did to get there. The top cause for homelessness is unaffordable housing. Think about that. One missed payment and you are on the street or one bad accident and your whole life is on the street.
Photo courtesy of CNN
Group pf people helping homeless man. The next cause is unemployment. With the rising expectations for new hires for education levels, getting hired is not as easy as it used to be. Third is poverty and poverty is an entrapment circle. Once you are stuck in the cycle of poverty there is almost no way to get out of it. Mental illness and substance abuse are the last two causes. We can help the problem by educating ourselves about the issues at hand. Knowledge is power and they have
such little power over their situation; we can help by just understanding. We must also respect them.They are just trying their best to survive under the circumstances they are experiencing. We must use the privilege we do have to help who we can and educate ourselves about their situation. We must take a long look at the list of reasons why people are homeless. We all have some sort of power in our hands to help and we must do something to help the people we can.
Importance of remembering loved ones
Dylan Dozier Sports Editor Jaylin Morales Advertising Manager Kelby Sprinkles Online Editor Reporters Adam Pena Brenda Riojas Sarah Reyna Gabriella Mastroianni Mark Gutierrez Sabrina Gonzalez 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
BRENDA RIOJAS Reporter Growing up in a traditional Hispanic-Catholic household, I never celebrated or recognized Dia de los Muertos. I can recall seeing colorful skulls at my local H-E-B and believing it was associated with Halloween. It was easy for me to connect Dia de los Muertos to Halloween because the skulls looked like Halloween masks or costumes for sale. However, over time I came to realize what Dia de los Muertos really was. Now, I understand the importance of setting up an altar, better known as an ofrenda. A picture and favorite item of your loved one is the most unique and among the most personalized items on the ofrenda. Candles and pan de muerto are more popular items to be placed on an ofrenda. Along with placing pictures and items on the ofrenda another popular and quite important item is the marigold flower. Usually bright orange or yellow marigolds are used to be placed on the ofrenda. I was once told that the bright colors of the marigolds are cho-
Photo courtesy of The New York Times
Families put up “ofrendas” to celebrate their loved ones for “Dia de los Muertos.” sen because they cheer up the dead. After watching the popular Pixar film Coco, centered entirely around the Day of the Dead I gained insight on the holiday. I would agree that setting up an ofrenda is important, but the brief connection between the living and the dead during nightfall is the most important aspect. This two-day holiday is meant to bring together the living and the dead, but I believe that the Day of the Dead is really for the living. We, on earth, get to celebrate those who have departed and we also get to
live a little bit like our loved ones for a day. We get to eat their favorite foods and wear their favorite colors. We also get to inform the younger generations in our families of those who are departed and about the holiday in general. If the Pixar movie Coco wouldn’t have been produced, Dia de los Muertos would not be as popular to the younger generation as it is now. It is up to us, the living, to bring the holiday and our loved ones back to life for a day. It’s the only holiday you’re able to celebrate lives and remember them.
Opinion
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Thursday, November 7, 2019
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Pipeline puts money over conservation
ADAM PENA Reporter For just over a decade, the Keystone XL pipeline has woven its way in and out of major headlines for various controversies, most of which regard the impact of the oil pipeline that runs between the United States and Canada. It’s a game of political ping-pong surrounding the controversial oil line. As far back as 2010, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that the Keystone XL pipeline’s effects on the ecosystem needed to be reviewed more comprehensibly before plans could be furthered on actual development of the pipeline. Nevertheless, development on the pipeline went underway and Phase 1 of the pipeline was completed in June 2010, running from Hardisty in Alberta, Canada, down to an oil tank farm north of Patoka, Ill., with further extensions to the pipeline connecting it to points in Houston and Port Arthur. The debate surrounding the Keystone XL pipeline reached Washington, D.C. as early as late November 2011, where President Barack Obama rejected a proposal for his administration
to make a decision about the pipeline within 60 days, citing such a deadline “prevented a full assessment of the pipeline’s impact,” according to the Associated Press. Later, the issue would be brought back up with President Obama, where on Jan. 29, 2015, a bill that approved the full construction of the Keystone XL pipeline was passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives. Obama, however, vetoed the bill, and his veto was unable to be overwritten by a Senate two-thirds majority, CNN reported. The pipeline sat in limbo until two years later in January 2017, when the then-newly inaugurated President Donald Trump signed an executive order approving the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, as well as a similar second pipeline known as the Dakota Access. Now that the pipeline has been operational for several years, it has become the center of environmental scandals. As the Keystone XL pipeline carries tar sands oil, a “thicker, more acidic, and more corrosive than lighter conventional crude [oil],” according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the pipeline is prone to leaks and spills. In its first year of operation, the Keystone system leaked 12 times. To make matters worse, tar sands oil is more volatile, dangerous and difficult to clean than standard crude oil. In addition, refining tar sands creates three to four times the carbon pollution of conventional crude oil refining, also according to the NRDC. The Keystone XL pipeline is another example of corporate interests priori-
tizing capital over conservation, as the pipeline’s history of spills and opposition by environmental groups and agencies shows. In order to provide a cleaner envi-
ronment, there seems to be less room for Keystone XLs and Dakota Accesses in the world. Such projects must be phased out for the promise of cleaner air and water.
Photo courtesy of WorldOil.com
The Keystone Pipeline will extend from Texas to Canada.
Man on the Street This Week’s Question:
“What do you think of having Dandy’s in the SUB part-time and would you like to see more local eateries do the same?”
Name: Julianna Espinoza Major: General Business “I’ve tried Dandys’s and it’s a very good so having it part-time at the SUB is phenomenal. I think other local eateries should also be part time as well. 88 Eat Street is one of my favorite local restaurants and it would be cool seeing restaurants like that become a part of the rotation in the SUB.”
Name: Jessenia Valdez Major: Accounting “I haven’t tried Dandy’s but if it continues to be part-time in the SUB I would love to try it. Also having other local eateries at the SUB would be fantastic. I don’t have a car and I walk to further restaurants in order to get food so it would be great if there was more restaurants at the SUB.”
Compiled by: Ronni Reyna
Name: Zach Davis Major: Electrical Engineering “I think it’s pretty interesting especially if you look at how many people go and eat at it too. It brings in a lot of business especially for the SUB and for Dandy’s too. It’s beneficial for both the SUB and the eateries that come in because they all make more as people want to go eat there because they get a taste of their food. Things get boring whenever we have the same thing in the SUB, and I hear a lot of people are actually wanting something else besides Chopsticks to be in there, so it’s a nice little change up for everybody too. It’s almost like a treat.”
Name: Haden Reyna Major: General Business “I think the support of local businesses by the university would be good because it promotes a sense of community with the town. Sometimes the town and the university itself can seem disconnected and that’d be a good way to combine them.”
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Entertainment
Have you seen Bojack Horseman? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter: @thesouthtexan
Theater performs original play Gravity
Ranson’s play to be performed by TAMUK students at theater festival for contest ILIANA FLORES Managing Editor
The theater department at Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) performed the riveting show Gravity for audiences on Nov. 1, 2 and 3 in the Little Theater. Gravity is an original production written and directed by Corey Ranson, the theater director at TAMUK. “The questions this play explores are the ones that always plague us. ‘Why? Why do things happen to good people? What do those people do to deserve it? And what can we do to prevent that?’ But also importantly what can we learn from things like this and how can it help reveal things for us in our own lives,” the director’s note in the show’s program said. The play follows Zoe Collins, played by Lexi LaCour, through her journey to coping with the death of her beloved boyfriend Brian, played by Robin Machuca. The show begins with Zoe staring and sobbing into a sinkhole a sinkhole which opened beneath her boyfriend as they were having a romantic meal by the ocean. Rescuers were unable to recover Brian, and Zoe is left wondering why this had to happen. Zoe ends up connecting with Moonlight, played by Laurie Guajardo, the owner of the land where the sinkhole opened, and her family. She then is met with an unexpected familiar face.
Photo by Iliana Flores
The cast of “Gravity” will be performing show for competition at Panola College on Nov. 8. The show is filled with twists and turns that had audiences captivated throughout the show. Brenda Melendy is a frequenter of TAMUK theater productions. She always enjoys the plays written by Ranson and found Gravity to be thought provoking and enjoyed how Ranson tied in horrific real-life events to the story. “It was really kind of interesting to think about why do bad things hap-
pen to good people...it was just kind of cool,” audience member Melendy said. Gravity is also a participating entry for the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF). The cast, crew and the production’s set will be heading to Carthage, Texas, to perform Gravity for judges on Nov. 8 at Panola College. The TAMUK theater department will be competing against other schools that make up region six; those schools
will come from Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas. While performing in front of judges can be nerve wracking, the cast and crew of Gravity is looking forward to showing the original production at KCACTF. Cast member Jackson Lewis is looking forward to “just being surrounded by likeminded people. People who love theater and are really passionate about it,” Lewis said.
Bojack taking responsibility in season six C.R. NEAL Editor-in-Chief Up until season 6, Netflix series Bojack Horseman has revolved around Bojack’s (Will Arnet) struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction and the overwhelming need to look for help in all the wrong places, but the manhorse seems to have turned a corner for the final season. While this final season is split into two parts, the second which comes out in January, this first part contains a satisfying beginning, middle and end. Bojack begins season six in rehab, reeling over the death of his former co-star, Sarah Lynn (Kristen Schaal), on the fictional show “Horsin’ Around.” Sarah, like Bojack, struggled with ad-
diction to various narcotics when a ridiculously long binge with Bojack ended with her overdosing on a batch of heroin aptly called ‘Bojack Kills.’ While in rehab, Bojack makes small steps of improvement as he fights to leave his toxic past and self behind him. Every time something threatens to send him reeling back into old habits, Bojack sees the planetarium’s simulated sky that Sarah died under in his arms. This symbol becomes a bastion for hope mixed with a deep despair. Bojack’s journey becomes threatened when he confiscates a water bottle full of vodka from another celebrity in rehab. As it only serves as a reminder of what he did to Sarah, he throws it out the window. In a wild turn of events, the bottle ends up in the hands of his sober therapist Doctor Champ (Sam
Photo courtesy of NME.com
Latest season of Bojack Horseman split into two parts.
Richardson), himself a recovering alcoholic. First, Bojack stays with him overnight so no one else would know a sober therapist fell off the wagon. After it becomes clear that Champ will not quit on his own, Bojack checks him into another rehab center, which leads Champ to blame Bojack for his current state. “Of course you did this to me – because I cared bout you and you ruin people who care about you,” Champ says. “I want you to remember this, Bojack. I want you to remember what you did to me.” Bojack replies, “I remember everything. I’m sober now.” This line marks a paradigm shift of who Bojack is as a horse-person. What would have once sent him careening down a cliff of self-hatred and alcoholism is now being used to depict how much progress he has made in accepting his addiction. However, accepting himself as an alcoholic is only the first step. In the final minutes of this part of the season, a terrible secret is about to be revealed to Bojack’s half-sister Hollyhock. In season two, Bojack took his ex-girlfriend’s daughter, Penny, to prom with her two friends, Peter and Maggie, and got them drunk. Bojack ended up leaving Maggie at the hospital to get her stomach pumped while Peter was forced to deal with the situation. Now, Peter finds himself bonding with Hollyhock at a party discussing previous traumas. As the shot cuts to black, the audience is left knowing that Hollyhock, herself recovering from trauma inflicted while Bojack was ad-
dicted to painkillers in season five, is about to hear one of Bojack’s darkest secrets, and wondering whether Bojack will own up to his mistakes to someone he deeply cares for.
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C.R.’S RATING
Have you seen Dawson’s latest series? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter: @thesouthtexan
Entertainment
Thursday, November 7, 2019
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Youtube Review: Dawson’s The Adulting 101: How to Beautiful World of Jeffree Star change a tire Latest series resonates with Youtube, beauty community
ILIANA FLORES Manging Editor
KELBY SPRINKLES Online Editor YouTuber Shane Dawson’s second web series in collaboration with makeup industry giant and fellow youtuber Jeffree Star premiered on Oct. 1. Aptly titled “The Beautiful World of Jeffree Star”, this documentary style series consists of six episodes, each about an hour in length. Some episodes of the much-anticipated series have already amassed over 24 million views on YouTube. The series, filmed by Andrew Siwicki, follows Dawson and Star as they design, develop and produce a new cosmetic line headed by Dawson with the help of Star’s own cosmetic company, Jeffree Star Cosmetics. The series also features appearances by Dawson’s fiancé and fellow youtuber Ryland Adams and his sister Morgan Adams The pair launched their new cosmetics line, Shane Dawson x Jeffree Star Cosmetics, on Friday, Nov. 1 with the release of the Conspiracy Collection. The release was so popular that excessive consumer traffic crashed both the Jeffree Star and Morphe Cosmetics’ websites for several hours. The collection features a full-sized eyeshadow palette named the Conspiracy Palette, a mini eyeshadow palette named Mini Controversy and several liquid lipsticks among other products.
Photo courtesy of The Verge
Dawson’s newest series follows the process of the makeup collaborations between Dawson and Star. In addition, Dawson released a new merchandise line through Star’s own merchandise company, Killer Merch, prior to the makeup collection’s launch. From the beginning of episode one titled “The Beautiful World of Jeffree Star,” it is evident that Dawson and Star’s friendship has blossomed since the premiere of their first collaborative web series titled “The Secret World of Jeffree Star.” This original series, released over a year ago, revealed the luxurious and over-the-top lifestyle of Star and his impact on the beauty industry. In their latest series, the unlikely duo turns the process of creating and manufacturing a product into an inspiring and surprisingly heartwarming journey for their combined audiences. Throughout the series, I found myself rooting for the perpetual underdog that is Dawson and in awe of the artistic genius that is Star. In addition to documenting the progress of their cosmetics line, the series sheds light on
the ridiculous drama that occurred in the beauty community in late 2018 and throughout most of 2019. This dramatic implosion of friendships and professional relationships that occurred within the community involved Star and a slew of other famous YouTube based makeup artists. Surprisingly, the recent severance of Star and beauty guru James Charles’ professional relationship was not covered in the series. Nevertheless, “The Beautiful World of Jeffree Star” has received praise from fans and fellow beauty guru’s alike. Earning a solid score of 7.5/10 from IMBD, this innovative series even resonates with viewers outside of the beauty community. As a self-proclaimed non-expert on beauty, I found the entrepreneurial and creative spirit of the series entertaining and redeeming. According to Dawson and Star’s official Twitter accounts, the series is ongoing, and episodes are currently being filmed for future release.
Theater calling for auditions ERICA GARCIA GINNETT Contributing Writer Every spring, Texas A&M University-Kingsville’s theater honor society, Alpha Psi Omega, puts on a children’s show that is seen by practically every elementary student from Riviera to Alice, and Spring 2020 will be no different. Alpha Psi Omega, APO, is having open auditions from 5 to 8 p.m., Nov. 11 and 12 at The Little Theater for their children’s performance “Who’s Afraid of Little Red Riding Hood,” by TAMUK’s own Dr. Patrick Faherty. This play will be performed in the Jones Auditorium and will be directed by TAMUK student Devyn Hamblin next semester. TAMUK has been performing children’s shows since the very early 1950s which adds up to near 100,000 children having seen these dedicated performances. The Jones Auditorium was originally built during WWII and was designed to have a balcony, but money ran out. The balcony was removed from the design but not until after the rest of the auditorium already had been built. Since Jones Auditorium is essentially permanently incomplete, it presents acting challenges because the lack of
balcony creates a dead zone right in the center of the theater where usually one finds the best seats. The performers of APO work around this during children’s performances by using the whole auditorium as their stage. Using different exits to enter into the crowd not only gives interest to the children and story itself, but helps to eliminate the lack of sound in some areas of the audience. Though the audience is almost completely compiled of children, this does not change the work put into each performance. Faherty has been with TAMUK for a long time and has been involved with the children performances for many years. “These are sophisticated children… so if you treat them like children-children, you’re going to have them lose interest,” Faherty said. “You have to treat them as people that already have a sense of what this is going to look like.” The actors, from experience, understand what happens when you are not genuine. Laurie Guajardo Hoefelmeyer has been a part of these performances in the past and has children of her own. “It’s fantastic with kids because you really can’t phone it in, it’s one of the best audiences you can have be-
cause they’re so genuine,” Guajardo Hoefelmeyer said. Etta Enow has performed several children’s shows and has been very popular with the children. When the children are able to shake hands and wave at the performers as they leave to their buses, it gives the actors a natural high one can only get from those glistening eyes of young children. “As someone who’s acted in lot of these children shows, the kids just make you feel larger than life, almost like a celebrity,” Enow said. Several TAMUK theater students have grown up in the area and are able to now be a part of this magic the children experience. The children’s show in the Jones Auditorium is often the first theater experience local children will have. This will be the first play Hamblin is directing on her own, and though she is nervous, she is thrilled to be a part of it. “I grew up in the area so I remember coming to see these children’s shows as a kid…I’m really excited to help create some of that excitement for the kids,” Hamblin said. Even though the performance is designed for the local children, there will be an opportunity for anyone to come watch it on the Sunday following the children’s performances.
It is almost inevitable that at some point in your life you will be cruising down the street in your ‘64 listening to your favorite jams when suddenly you’ll feel your car vibrating with the song. As great as it may be to think your car is just vibing with the music, you should probably be prepared for the unfortunate event of having a flat tire. Getting a flat tire is one of those adult life events that is truly dreadful. It can be stressful and tiring, but it is something we must all be prepared to deal with. So, here is what to do if you ever have to change a flat tire. The best thing to do when you have a flat tire should actually happen long before your tire goes flat that is be prepared. At all times, you will want to have a wrench, car jack and a spare tire in your car. These items should come with the car when you buy it, but it is important to double check. If these things are not in your car, be sure to purchase them if you can. With these tools already in your car, it will lessen the stress of changing a flat when the time comes. If you are driving and you notice your tire is flat, you should first turn on your hazards, slow down and find a safe spot to park. On the highway, pull over on the shoulder. If on residential streets, try to pull into a gas station. Once you’re parked be sure to put on your emergency break; this will prevent the car from rolling. It is time for arguably the most difficult part of changing a tire and that is loosening the lug nuts. Turn them counterclockwise to loosen their resistance but don’t completely remove them just yet. This step may require some force so don’t be afraid to use your foot and body weight to push. Next it is time to put in the jack. According to Bridgestone Tire’s website, “The right place for the jack is usually beneath the vehicle frame alongside the tire that’s flat. Many vehicle frames have molded plastic on the bottom with a cleared area of exposed metal specifically for the jack. To safely lift and avoid damage to the vehicle, follow the instructions for jack placement in your vehicle owner’s manual.” Lift the jack about six inches from the ground. Now you can unscrew the lug nuts the rest of the way. Then pull the tire off and place it flat on the ground. Get your spare, align it with the lug bolts, place the tire on then put on the lug bolts and tighten them by hand. You can now lower the jack until the car is back on the ground but don’t let the full weight of the tire rest on the ground. Use the wrench to completely tighten the bolts to secure the tire. Now lower the car completely and pull off the jack. The last step is to put on the hubcap on the spare if it fits. If it doesn’t fit, store it with the rest of equipment. As soon as you can, take the flat tire to a tire place and see if it can be patched or if you will have to replace it. Hopefully it is not the later. Changing tires is definitely not fun but hopefully now you will feel a bit prepared. Safe travels!
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Javelinas roll over Mustangs, 44-30
Luis Lopez rumbles for a Javelina touchdown.
Lopez leads ground offensive, finds the endzone three times DYLAN DOZIER Sports Editor Redshirt senior running back Luis Lopez hit pay dirt three times in the Javelina’s road victory over the Mustangs of Western New Mexico (WNMU). The visiting team’s efforts at Ben Altamirano Field provided them with their first
victory in Lone Star Conference action. Western New Mexico jumped out to a 14-0 lead after scampers from C.J. Fowler and DeAndre Williams, but the Blue and Gold would respond answer back with an 18-yard strike from quarterback Koy Detmer Jr. to Kingsville-native Ryan Martinez. On the next drive, the home team would extend their lead when Fowler flung one to teammate Isaac Crichton. With just under 5 minutes to play in the half, WNMU placekicker Ignacio Correa split the uprights from 29 yards out to increase the deficit to 23-7. The Javelinas would get the final say in first half play from a 15-yard touchdown jaunt from Lopez.
Photo courtesy of Javelina Athletics
At the end of first half play, the Mustangs held the lead at 23-14. In an interview with Javelina athletics, Head Coach Daren Wilkinson conveyed pride in the team’s ability to bounce back from the early struggles. “I’m proud of the way our guys battled,” Wilkinson said. “We buckled down near the end of the first quarter, got that touchdown at the end of the half, and we really felt like they couldn’t stop us from there.” TAMUK kept the momentum rolling in the third quarter, capping the opening drive with a 29-yard pass from Detmer to redshirt junior receiver Darrian Hambrick. The Mustangs answered right back
with a 28-yard strike from Fowler to Reggie Carlson III. But freshman kicker Romario Perez pushed one through the uprights from 33-yards and Lopez capped a critical 98-yard drive with a 6-yard touchdown run. Lopez’s second goal line find tied the game at 30all. The visitors captured the mometum on the following WNMU-drive when lineback Alec Lewis jumped on a lose ball at the TAMUK two-yard line. Amos Coleman III jumped in front of a Fowler-throw and returned it 15 yards for a score. The defensive touchdown grabbed the first lead for the visitors as they moved ahead 37-30. Lopez rumbled for his final score from 1-yard out, extending the Javelina lead by 14. A muffed punt by the Mustangs and a key interception by redshirt sophmore Kason Franklin cemented the Javelina victory. Wilkinson praised the defense’s second half performance in an interview with Javelina athletics. “Our defense did a nice job in the second half figuring some things out and making the stops they needed. Then it became about big plays on both sides of the ball, we got it done on offense and defense and it allowed us to win the game,” Wilkinson said. Lopez carried the ball 17 times for 122 yards and three touchdowns. This was his second three-score performance of the year, his first coming in the September 14 shutout of Sul Ross State. Four different TAMUK defenders came up with a sack. The defense was lead by a 10 tackle effort from senior Josh Wilson. Jacob Clarkson, Cody Gardner and Jimmar Davis racked up two tackles each. The Javelinas host the Buffaloes of West Texas A&M on November 9th. Play will kickoff on Pespsi Field at Javelina Stadium at 3 p.m. and be broadcast on local televisions by the Nexstar Media Group.
Blue and Gold Volleyball falters over weekend
West Texas A&M, Eastern New Mexico get the best of TAMUK SABRINA GONZALEZ Sports Writer
Javelina volleyball was back in action at home this past weekend against the West Texas A&M Lady Buffs and the Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds. The Blue and Gold had tough matchups on Friday and Saturday. Despite several set wins, the Javelinas were unable to pull off a win this weekend. They’ve now lost four straight matches putting them at 6-4 in the Lone Star Conference and 16-11 overall. On Friday the Javelinas took on the Lady Buffs, who defeated the Javelinas in three sets (26-24, 25-18, 25-18). Several Javelinas put up great numbers for the team, but it wasn’t enough to grab a win. Junior Meghan Merlino finished the day with 10 kills and nine digs. Seniors Talleyshia Morris and Melanie Casteel smacked down kills of their own with Morris grabbing five and Casteel four. Freshman Jordan Schenkel picked up 12 digs and sophomore Lauren Kadilis had 16 assists. During the first set, the Javs and
Meghan Merlino returns service. Lady Buffs traded the lead several times, but the Lady Buffs stole the first one. The Lady Buffs stayed ahead for most of the second set and only let the Javs take the lead once. The third and final set went in similar fashion, with the Javelinas trying to come from be-
hind. They weren’t able to make up the lead that the Lady Buffs put up and dropped the third set. The Javs finished up their weekend with a hard fought match against the Greyhounds. The visitors captured the win in five sets (25-23, 25-19, 24-26, 18-
Photo courtesy of Javelina athletics.
25, 15-13). Morris, Kailey Estrada, Jordan Wonders, and Merlino earned double digits in the kill column.
VB Games Continued on Page 10
Sports 9 Aggies squeak by Hogs in pre-season contest
Thursday, November 7, 2019
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Despite strong effort by Flowers, Javelinas fall 81-74 in first of 2019 DYLAN DOZIER Sports Editor Last Tuesday, the throes of sibling rivalry were on display at Reed Arena in College Station, TX as the Texas A&M University (TAMU) basketball team narrowly slipped past the Javelinas, 81-74. “I’m proud of my guys,” said coach Johnny Estelle “I’m proud of the way they represented the Javelina Nation tonight. I’m very proud of how they competed and tried to win. You don’t want to ever say you’re happy after a defeat, but you played a really well coached, SEC team that plays at a high level without much time to practice. Coach [Buzz] Williams is one of the best coaches in America. His staff is first-class. His players are really good. I’m proud of my guys and my staff.” After falling behind in the first three minutes of play, Junior Sammy Brooks hit two consecutive shots from beyond the arc, catalyzing a Javelina scoring run that comprised almost 11 minutes of first half play. The TAMUK offense scored 18 of the next 23 points. Six of those points came from Brooks and 4 came from senior Daniel Severo. The Aggies responded with 16 unanswered points. But Bryan, Texas-native Tre Flowers answered back with 6 of the next 10 points, closing the deficit to two points. Flowers led the court in the scoring column, finishing Tuesday’s contest with 14 points from the field. The junior also added 4 assists in his 28 minute effort.
Tre Flowers sets up on defense. In an interview with Javelina athletics, Flowers expressed enthusiasm for his team’s efforts in Aggieland. ““For us, I feel like this was a statement game,” Flowers said. “We felt like A&M was going to take us lightly being a Division II team, but we wanted to show them what Javelina basketball is all about. I think we did that. It was a
Photo courtesy of Javelina Athletics
good game for us to get ourselves rolling. What better way to start the season than to play A&M.” The Blue and Gold kicked off the second half with six consecutive points. Though the visitors trailed by one possession numerous times, they never regained the lead. In the last four minutes, the Javelinas
came within one possession four times but the home team answered back accordingly. A string of free throws extended the Aggie’s final lead to 7. The first regular season game for Javelina basketball will be a home stand against the South Dakota Mines on November 8th at Steinke Physical Education Center.
Trek through the Panhandle Jungle Where I’ll be when I find what I seek DYLAN DOZIER Sports Editor Thirty miles southeast of Dumas, Texas, I pull up to a boat ramp that has been closed for almost 30 years. Through the headlights of my car, I see the end of the concrete ramp disappear into a seemingly endless canebrake. I am the only hunter in the lot at 4 am, and I am pleased that the solitude I desire is inevitable. I hook my Diamond Outlaw to a carabiner on my pack, buckle my Scott Sabertooth to my wrist and head off into the Panhandle darkness in search of a good place to glass for a species I have never hunted. Having spent the first quarter-century of my life chasing whitetail in the brush country and pine thickets of South and East Texas, the idea of hunting mule deer in backcountry canyons is as foreign to me as hunting Markhor in Asia. Due to a copious number of hours spent watching backcountry hunts on the internet, I am naively confident that by the end of the weekend I will return to the boat ramp with the horns, hide, and edible meat of a mule deer buck.
The Canadian River cuts through the Texas Panhandle. I have only walked 50 yards but the parking lot is out of sight. The trail I hit is minimally travelled and after another hundred yards and a series of ups and downs, I realize that I’m traversing my first cliff face of the day. I know that I can move quicker if I get out of the cliffs and follow the edge of the old lake bed. I go down the cliff face and find myself on flat ground but the only clear trail disappears into a forest of dry cane reeds. There is a bounty
of open country between where I am now and my final destination but no part of me wants to disappear into this floral labyrinth to find it. The option is singular, so I head off into darkness. The path through the canebrake is only wide enough for me and my bow and the turns are so many that I can only see out a few steps in front of me. I realize how tense I am and begin to laugh. My last right turn leads into a country that seems to never end.
Photo by Dylan Dozier.
After persevering through the anxiety-inducing black of the sky-high canebrake, I step out into the openness of the old lake bed. Breathing easy at last, my headlamp illuminates a northbound pair of boot prints that is preserved in the Texas clay. Amazed at its size, I slide my boot into the print and immediately begin a silent prayer.
Pandhandle Jungle Continued on Page 10
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Sports
Javelina Marathon set for Saturday Prizes to be given out to those in attendance at men’s basketball game, football game CONTRIBUTED BY JAVELINA ATHLETICS
Talleyshia Morris soars for a kill.
VB Games Continued from Page 8 Junior Roxanne Morris ended the day with 42 assists. Schenkel picked up 27 digs and sophomore Alexa Ruiz had 22 of her own. The first set was a battle, with the teams tying it up several times and the Javelinas taking the lead but they couldn’t hold on to it and the Greyhounds took the first one. Despite coming close to tying it up or going ahead several times in the second set, the Javelinas couldn’t pull it off and went down 2-0. The third and
Pandhandle Jungle Continued from Page 9
“God, if it is your plan to have me come face-to-face with a wildness-wandering serial killer, please don’t let it be this behemoth of a human.” I quietly utter “Amen,” and head north along the western bank of the Canadian River. Enamored by the crimson skyline, I nearly walk face-first into a solid wall of phragmites. I walk up and down the horizontal line of high vegetation in front of me and fail to find a path with less resistance. I take a deep breath, curse Mother Nature and plunge ahead into the Panhandle jungle. In times of struggle, my father always says, “Bow your neck. Keep fighting. Keep moving forward.” I repeat this to myself as I press through the brush because there is no trail before me. Thank God I’m not claustrophobic. A handful of trips and falls and hundreds of yards later, I emerge from the phragmites to find that two of my arrows have been stripped off my quiver, lost to the chaos behind me. Most days, I would take this as some kind of omen, but I’m too sweaty, itchy and uncomfortable to search for any meaning. I slowly make my way across the last stretch of open country and scurry up the side of Evan’s Canyon. Upon reaching the glassing knob I spied from the ground, I realize that there are higher and more sufficient vantage points, so I keep making my way up towards the sky. Before I have the opportunity to skyline myself, I sit down and set up my binocular tripod. I spend hours looking through the
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Photo courtesy of Javelina Athletics
fourth set went similar to the first with the teams tying it up several times, but the Javelinas were able to pull off the wins to even it up 2-2. In the final set of the weekend, the Greyhounds jumped ahead early on but the Javelinas fought back. The lead was taken back by the Greyhounds who went on to steal the fifth set. After several losses, the Javelinas look to pick up a win on the road. They will take on Dallas Baptist University at 6 p.m. on November 8 in Dallas, Texas, and Tarleton State University at 2 p.m. on November 9 in Stephenville. glass. I see nothing. Rocks, cactus, palmettos and trees. After hours of nothingness, my mind begins to wander away from the task at hand. I watch the sun slowly making its way behind the ridgeline in the distance and begin to question my current quest. I ponder my reasons for being there and attempt to pragmatically justify my actions. I could have driven 30 miles instead of 700, climbed 5 feet into a box blind instead of 500 feet up a cliff. But here I am in the middle of the wilderness, looking for deer, and pretending I am Daniel Boone. What a jackass. Something moves at the mouth of the canyon and these thoughts cease. I swing the binos to my left and glass up a pair of mule deer does. As I watch them make their way into the land’s fold, I spot another mule deer doe about 200 yards behind them. In a few weeks, the rut will kick in and Big Rack Jack will be following close behind them. A coyote trots through the brush below me and crosses the canyon. The late-evening happenings in the draw before me pull me back into the moment. My hope is revived. I silently pray for a glimpse of horns, but as the sun makes way for the moon, I come to terms with the fact that I have a five-mile trek back to the boat ramp, empty-handed. I stow away my gear and head south. The hike back goes by quicker than my morning’s journey. Perhaps it is because as my boots march forward, I am dreaming up images of my return trip. I stop at the edge of the parking lot and gaze at the country I’ve crossed. I know that what I seek is out here. And I know where to be when it rears its head.
A busy weekend ahead for both the Texas A&M-Kingsville football and men’s basketball programs includes a double feature for Saturday, Nov. 9, following the tailgate, as the Hogs will take on West Texas A&M on the gridiron starting at 3 p.m. for Senior Day, before they turn to the hardwood to take on Chadron State in the LSC/ RMAC Crossover starting at 7 p.m.. As part of the weekend festivities, the TAMUK athletic department will host the first-of-its-kind Javelina Marathon for those who attend all three events on Saturday. The marathon will allow those in attendance to pick up their Javelina Passport at the tailgate and have it stamped to enter in a drawing for various prizes. On Saturday, November 9, Javelina fans can enjoy tailgate festivities begin-
ning at 12 p.m. Fans will be able to pick up their Javelina Passport at the snow cone stand located in the tailgate area next to Pepsi Field at Javelina Stadium from 12 to 2:30 p.m. Those who pick up their passport will also receive a free snow cone. The football game will kick off at 3 p.m. as the contest will broadcast live on the Nexstar Media Group as part of the LSC Showcase. Those who pick up their passport will have it stamped upon entry to the stadium at any ticket booth and will also receive free sunglasses. Prizes will be announced throughout the game. Those who win a prize can claim it at the southeast gate of the stadium near Porky’s Pack. Prizes include: AirPods, a $500 gift certificate to the TAMUK Bookstore, a $20 Whataburger gift card, a Whataburger coupon pack, a Dominoes coupon pack, a Pizza Parlor coupon pack and a Javelina Gift Basket. Once the football game finishes, fans can use their ticket to receive free entry to the men’s basketball game starting at 7 p.m. at the Steinke Physical Education Center and can also turn in their passport for prize drawings during the contest. Prizes will be announced throughout the game. Those who win a prize can claim it at the scorers’ table.
What events are happening on campus? Let us know at: thesouthtexan@tamuk.edu
News and Jumps
Thursday, November 7, 2019
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‘okSOBERfest’ wraps up month
The university hosts event to educate students about wellness CALISTA REYES Contributing Writer On Oct. 31, “okSOBERfest meets Monster Ball” was held in Martin Hall. The event was hosted by Housing and Resident Life, pepTALK and Student Health and Wellness. Texas A&M-Kingsville students were exclusively invited to join in on some educational games, mocktails and music. Students were able to have fun while also learning important wellness information. Students got to learn the effects of alcohol with a beer goggles activity. “The games are really fun and they have a purpose. I was unsure at first if I wanted to come to this, but I’m glad me and my friends decided to stop by. We got some treats and I learned a lot,” student Maria Canamar said. “Overall, it’s been a good night. We’ve met some new people too which is cool.” Information about sexual health was also a topic presented at okSOBERfest
and students were educated on its importance. They provided lots of information like a list of the most common STDs among college students. “This event was actually awesome because there was a lot of different information given to us. I feel like some of it doesn’t get talked about as much as it should, but today I definitely learned a lot and still had fun with my friends,” student Annya Mendoza said. Students who had any questions were able to get answers and not wonder about any realities that are out there. “I asked some general questions that I had. It reminds you that even though you need to have fun you also need to know how to be responsible, and I think that we sometimes forget that,” student Christopher Shivers said. “They should have some more events like this in the future because it really reminds you to take a step back and make sure you are making good choices. This information is something that everyone should know.”
Photos by Calista Reyes
The university hosts event to learn about sexual health and the effects of alcohol.
Enrollment continued from Page 1 improve. If you don’t ask those questions, you don’t know where,” Croft said. This data tells administrators another important factor for higher education: retention rates. Interim Associate Vice President for Student Success Shannon Baker, Ph.D. is focused on keeping students involved and successful at the university. “The goal is to get back up to 70 percent retention. Retention rates typically do ebb-and-flow over the course of a few years time span. We’re in a little bit of an ebb cycle right now where we have decreased in the last two years, but the Center for Student Success is collaborating with units across campus to work and focus on retention initia-
tives,” Baker said. The ways Baker and the Center for Student Success are helping students be successful is by supporting them. “One of the main themes of our retention initiatives focuses on support and the other is connection, so if students feel supported and connected we believe that they are more likely to persist and receive their college degree,” Baker said. As administrators attempt to get students to attend this university and support them in their journey they maintain that TAMUK has a lot to offer, and it is only a matter of getting people’s attention. “At the end of the day we are an excellent institution and an excellent choice for students, so it’s just a matter of reaching them, letting them know who we are and what we offer them,” Croft said.
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TAMUK goes trunk or treating
Students and citizens of Kingsville lined University Boulevard donned in costumes to show off their creativity and get candy. There was a costume and a trunk decoration contest.
Photos by Aryssa Enriquez