Thursday, April 28, 2016
southtexannews.com
Volume 91, Issue 13
Texas A&M University - Kingsville
The South Texan /TheSouthTexan
@TheSouthTexan
@TheSouthTexan
TAMU System to approve Campus Carry policies Kaitlin Ruiz Managing Editor
Jaya “Bharat” Reddy Marella
Courtesy photo
Marella expenses said to be covered Raul Altamirano Chief Reporter
With the tragic passing of Texas A&M UniversityKingsville graduate student Jaya “Bharat” Reddy Marella, many misconceptions have surfaced about whether or not the university covers any of the medical expenses acquired by Marella’s family. With funds having been raised for medical bills, travel expenses, as well as general donations for the family, there has been concern by many students that TAMUK would not be covering any of the burdening costs in lieu of Marella’s death. According to Dr. Terisa Riley, senior vice president for Student Affairs, there are several policies within the insurance plans offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield through Academic
Emergency Services that do include coverage for international students both on and off campus. Since family members of Marella were unaware of the overall amount of coverage that would be offered by the university, a GoFundMe fundraiser was set up so individuals who could contribute were allowed to do so outside of funds being assessed by the university. “They gave knowing the family would incur many expenses, including emergency
visas and expensive travel to the United States in order for his brother to join him at the hospital,” said Riley. Riley also confirmed that while the expenses covered by the insurance policy remains to be seen, the plan would cover many of the charges as university officials have provided the necessary insurance information to Christus Spohn Hospital in Corpus Christi. One of the expenses being paid for by the university that is covered in the health plan includes repatriation, which is the transportation of Marella’s body back to his family in India. Elizabeth Laurence, international and multicultural event coordinator for Student Activities, said that since the incident occurred in Nueces County, the coordinator for the State of Texas Crime Victims Assistance Program has been working diligently to make sure that the family of Marella’s applications has been processed.
Students interested in health insurance provided by TAMUK or who have questions about available plans can contact the Office of International Student and Scholar Services at: (361) 593-3317 or visit them at Cousins Hall, Room 113A. Follow Raul Altamirano on Twitter: @raulsotx
For members of the community at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, August will bring change regarding the presence of concealed handguns on campus, in line with the response of the Texas A&M University (TAMU) System to Texas state law. The “Summary of Proposed Texas A&M University System Member Campus Carry Rules” on the TAMU System’s website records that: “In accordance with state law, the licensed carry of concealed handguns will be allowed at Texas A&M University System member institutions beginning on August 1, 2016.” Borne of Senate Bill 11, which was signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott in June of last year, the concealed handguns of licensed holders were written into acceptance on college campuses in Texas. However, as the “Campus Carry” portion of TAMUK’s website details, changes wrought by the Tex-
as Concealed Carry Law are “subject to the institution’s rules adopted in accordance with this act.” Each member school of the TAMU System settled upon its own set of regulations, considering particular environments on campuses that might bear special safety concerns. The proposed exceptions put forward by each campus, which would exclude certain facilities from the allowance of concealed handguns, were slotted to be presented and considered by the TAMU System Board of Regents on Wednesday, April 27 and Thursday, April 28. Accordingly, TAMUK sifted through settings of its own via its SB-11 Committee. According to Randy Hughes, chief of staff and chair of the SB-11 Steering Committee for TAMUK, part of the committee’s virtue was in its level of inclusivity from within the school. “I believe we had a very open and transparent process,” he noted. “The SB-11 Steering Committee (that
was charged with drafting our ‘draft’ rule) included representatives from each Academic College, College of Pharmacy, SGA, Faculty Senate, Staff Council, and several other representatives at large – Campus Police Chief, Dean of Students, Executive Director of Housing & Residence Life, the Associate Athletic Director and ex-officio the Director of Compliance.” Areas which TAMUK has requested to be sectioned off from handgun access include scientific laboratories, specifically those in possession of potentially unstable chemicals, as well as the 3rd floor of the Irma Rangel College of Pharmacy Building. Aside from forestalling possible issues within laboratories, considerations have also been put forward for children. Further locations fenced from the regulation include: Academy High School, the Marc A. Cisneros Center for Young Children, and TAMUK fields on the occasions in which they are being
used by students of Academy High School—whether for game practices or events related to marching band. Aside from this, areas requested as exceptions to the mandate are the Student Health & Wellness Center, the Student Recreation Center, and both the University Speech and Hearing Clinic and the University Child Literacy Laboratory. Already built within the law is the stipulation that the concealed handguns of licensed holders may not be taken into places of worship and the premises of collegiate sporting events where effective notice has been made. However, the additional requests for exception made by an individual campus rely on adequate justification. By the explanation of TAMUK’s “Campus Carry” page, this is justification “based on the potential that a discharged firearm might cause a situation that could result in catastrophic harm beyond that caused directly by the firearm.” Follow Kaitlin Ruiz on Twitter: @kaitlinruiz95
Beethoven comes alive at recital hall faculty lecture Crystal Zamarron Editor-in-Chief
Beethoven was alive and well on campus on April 25, as Dr. Joachim Reinhuber, associate professor of piano, presented his work in a lecture titled “Love Strife and Pathos” at the Bellamah Music Building. The presentation was part of the 35th Annual Faculty Lecture at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. In a recital hall with an almost full audience of students and faculty from in and outside of the Music Department, concentration
centered on one question: “Why is Beethoven’s music relevant almost 200 years after his death?” Reinhuber tried to convince the audience why Beethoven is still relevant today. “We need performance to keep music alive and it is our mission to do this,” said Reinhuber. In the lecture, he explored two sonatas from Beethoven: “Grande Sonata Pathetique” op. 13 from 1798, and his last piano sonata op. 111 from 1822. Reinhuber compared both and explained similarities, beginning with the different instruments and Beethoven’s complete loss of
Photo by Crystal Zamarron
Dr. Joachim Reinhuber delivers a Beethoven-themed lecture on April 25 as part of the university’s faculty lecture series.
hearing. “Music brings us in touch with our inner humanity. Music is one of the fundamental keys in order for one to express themselves” said
Reinhuber. To end the night, Reinhuber performed both pieces he has previously mentioned. Follow Crystal Zamarron on Twitter: @Crystal_Southtex
Spring commencement begins Samuel Galindo Reporter
Texas A&M UniversityKingsville’s Spring Commencement ceremonies will take place Friday, May 13, at the Steinke Physical Education Center. The event will
begin at 10 a.m., as the degree candidates from the Dick and Mary Lewis Kleberg College of Agriculture, Natural Resources, Human Sciences, and Colleges of Business Administration and Education and Human Performances,
will walk the stage to accept their degrees. Following this event will be the graduation ceremony for all graduates from the College of Arts and Sciences, which will take
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place at 1 p.m. The final ceremony will begin at 4 p.m., which will feature all graduates from the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering. During the first (10 a.m.) and second (1 p.m.) commencement ceremonies, retired Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez will serve as the commencement speaker. LTG (Ret.) Sanchez has been the recipient of numerous medals throughout his time of service to our nation, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, and the Joint Service Commendation Medal. LTG (Ret.) Sanchez has a bach-
elor’s degree in mathematics and history from Texas A&I, and a master’s degree in operations research and systems analysis engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. He has also recently accepted to be chair of the Texas A&M UniversityKingsville Foundation, Inc. Board of Trustees, a role he will assume in August. The speaker for the third (4 p.m.) commencement ceremony will be Mizanul Chowdhury, who holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, and a master’s degree in natural gas engineering
from TAMUK. Chowdhury has worked as a system administrator and architect at MIT, where his expertise in that field helped further the success of the Zero Robotics project, a NASA-funded competition; apart from this, he has also worked as a security consultant for numerous companies throughout his career. Additionally, Chowdhury has also been the recipient of several awards for outstanding vocal performances, and was honored in 1989 as one of his paintings was presented to George H. W. Bush by the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Follow Samuel Galindo on Twitter: @samgalindo37
Last issue of the semester. Good luck in finals and see you Fall ‘16, Javelinas!
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Thursday
April 28, 2016
Bobby Puentes
Xavier Aguilar Reporter
Texas A&M University-Kingsville observed its annual Earth Day Celebration in the pavilion by the Memorial Student Union Building, Friday, April 22. This year’s event was put together by the Javelina Sustainability Organization, and attracted the attention of about 200. The main focus of this year’s celebration was social justice, along with cultural and social sustainability. In an age where climate change is present, and even fresh fruits and vegetables are subject to pesticides, Earth Day comes as an encouragement to steward our natural resources well. This might begin with something as small as grasping the importance of taking the extra few minutes to recycle, they said. With Earth Day in mind at TAMUK, many student and campus organizations were present, providing not only knowledge to students about different forms of sustainability, but also to share treats with the crowd. Eli Twitty, recycling coordinator and a leader of the event, said: “The purpose of
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the Earth Day celebration is to not only inform people about Earth Day, but also show more than recycling and see other aspects of sustainability. It is more than wagging your finger and saying you need to recycle; it is finding ways to help them recycle.” The American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists presented on aquifers and groundwater, talking about the ways in which groundwater can be polluted, along with the benefits of aquifers. In addition, the Geosciences Club explained what minerals and materials make up a simple pencil. On a similar point, Kingsville Recycling informed attendees of the city’s recycling center, all while passing out pencils made up of old blue jeans. Also making presentations were the International Students Organization, Career Services, Health and Wellness, the Student Government Association, the English Club, the American Nuclear Society and TAMUK National Organization for Women and SPECTRUM. Follow Xavier Aguilar on Twitter: @Xaguilar1195
Javelinas support Relay for Life
The Luminaria Ceremony is when candles are lit inside of personalized bags which are placed around the Relay track as glowing tributes to those who have been affected by cancer.
Javelina Nation participated in Relay for Life on April 22. The overnight community fundraising walk honors those who have battled, or are currently battling, cancer. Food, games and activities provided entertainment throughout the night. Approximately 46 teams, with a total of 658 participants, took part in this year’s walk. An approximate total of $107,395.99 was raised by the event this past Friday.
Photos by Angela Garza
Letters spelling out “HOPE” were placed in front of College Hall on University Blvd. as part of the Relay for Life activities, on April 22.
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southtexannews.com
Thursday
April 28, 2016
CAMPUS
Raul Altamirano
@raulsotx
Phi Kappa Phi inducts 102 students
Photos by Doug Smith
Kaitlin Ruiz Managing Editor From its Ballrooms on the second floor, the sounds of shuffling feet and papers might have been heard in the Memorial Student Union Building. After all, within those upper corridors 102 students had gathered, whisking through programs until they could repeat a motto: “Let the love of learning rule humanity.” On Tuesday, April 26, Texas A&M University-Kingsville welcomed its first group of inductees into TAMUK’s chapter of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. Founded in 1897 at the University of Maine, Phi Kappa Phi prides itself in being the nation’s oldest and
most selective honor society for all academic disciplines; membership is proffered to the top 7.5 percent of second-term juniors and the top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students. Dr. Nestor Sherman, president of Texas A&M University-Kingsville’s chapter of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, welcomed TAMUK’s inaugural group and their guests, saying: “Today, we celebrate excellence. We gather to initiate worthy individuals into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. These persons have been chosen on the basis of their superior scholarship. We are pleased and proud that each has chosen to become part of a century-old community of scholars and professionals that includes individuals who have distinguished themselves
Dr. Richard Miller (top) gave the keynote speech at the induction cerrmonies into Phi Kappa Phi Tuesday, April 26. Pictured on right are students waiting to be inducted. in positions of leadership, and whose careers A keynote presentation was given by Dr. have been characterized by achievement.” Richard Miller, professor and department Phi Kappa Phi can lay claim to members chair for the Department of Psychology and that have served in the United States ConSociology. gress, the United States Supreme Court, as In addressing the 102 inductees, Miller cut well as former occupants of the Oval Office. into the still room with a bit of wit. Further, recipients of Nobel Prizes and After noting the honor of being able to presPulitzer Prizes have belonged to the honor ent, he added, “I am especially aware that society. I am the only thing between you and your Yet, whatever position its members might certificates. So, in the words of Henry VIII to find themselves in, the society stresses schol- his first wife, Catherine of Aragon: I will not arship that serves. keep you long.” As Sherman noted, “Phi Kappa Phi is Yet, if Miller’s address was brief, its topic of proud to include in its membership thouthe responsibilities of achieving honor, was sands of women and men who, for more welcome as a reminder that students seek than a century, have sought to make a differ- excellence not for their sake only, but for the ence in the communities where they live and good of others. work.” Follow Kaitlin Ruiz on Twitter: @kaitlinruiz95
Shakespeare and Cervantes: a Commemoration of Two Lives Kaitlin Ruiz Managing Editor A line of students waited before a table where, like a bier, a collection of books had been laid. One was pried open, notes skittering over the margins of a page. However, the visitors paid their respects to a larger, redbacked volume—and after leafing through this facsimile of Shakespeare’s works, they took seats to help resurrect words. On Monday, April 25 and Tuesday, April 26, students and faculty gathered in the Blue Room of Fore Hall to take part in a celebration of two literary lives: William Shakespeare, and Miguel de Cervantes. “Shakespeare and Cervantes: a Commemoration of Two Lives” was the product of cooperation between TAMUK’s chapters of Sigma Tau Delta and Sigma Delta Pi, English and Spanish honor societies respectively. April marks the 400th anniversary of death for both Shakespeare and Cervantes; in
Alyssabeth Cantu, president of Sigma Tau Delta, opened the event on Monday. In addressing those gathered, Cantu said: “400 years after their deaths, we still recognize William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes as two of the most influential contributors to their respective languages. This says something about the immortality of the writPhoto by Marco Iniguez-Alba ten word...it seems only fitting that we celebrate Reading Shakespeare and Cervantes was part of celebration. their lives together, using remembering their contributions to English art and language to do so.” and Spanish, TAMUK students and faculty Monday’s half of the event centered on the read from and acted out passages of both legacy of Shakespeare, as students enrolled authors’ works. in classes with Dr. Pamela Wright, faculty It was a testimony that for the pair of writsponsor for Sigma Tau Delta, and Dr. Ryan ers, words live still.
Paul shared portions of their favorite passages. In inviting students to step up and lend a voice to the written word, Paul was lighthearted. “I was going to start with the sonnets,” he noted, “and anyone who wants to come up and read one—we’ve got 154 we can get through.” On Tuesday, attention shifted to Cervantes, the author best-known for the novel “Don Quixote.” Again, students were encouraged to present—this time, in Spanish. Additionally, Sigma Delta Pi’s featured guest, Rabbi Peter Tarlow, was scheduled to present “Las influencias judías en Don Quixote.” On first welcoming members of the TAMUK community to the celebration, Cantu made a request: “Please join us in helping the works of these writers continue to withstand the test of time.” By the time the event and book covers had closed, it was clear to those in attendance that this was certain. Follow Kaitlin Ruiz on Twitter: @kaitlinruiz95
CAMPUS southtexannews.com
Thursday
Raul Altamirano
April 28, 2016
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@raulsotx
Fifth Annual Statistics Day at TAMUK Kaitlin Ruiz Managing Editor
Plastic frills hung from the ceiling of Rhode Hall 333, their fringes a sequence of blue and yellow, green and red. From one end of the room, a table waited, decked out in snack cookies and a sputtering percolator. It was a place trimmed for a celebration— and cropping out from rows of desks came its cause: gathered students and faculty, in t-shirts stamped with the words “Fifth Annual Statistics Day.” On Friday, April 22, Texas A&M University-Kingsville celebrated its Fifth Annual Statistics Day, an event in which over 160 people took part. As Mr. Morgan Ogden, a lecturer in the Department of Mathematics explained: “It allows people to give presentations on a subject they are passionate about; both in-house speakers as well as invited guests. It allows the Math Department to showcase these passionate individ-
uals. Inviting people to come listen to these passionate speakers, allows them to broaden their horizons.” By Ogden’s reckoning, this listening and stretching is not limited to those whose fields of study are in mathematics. “Everybody ‘uses’ statistics in one form or another, and most of the time we as humans don’t even realize it. The amount you pay for auto insurance or health insurance; the standings of your favorite sports team; which internet search engine you prefer; the temperature the thermostat is set on in the buildings, et cetera. Just about any question you can think of where numbers might be involved deals with statistics,” he elaborated. Dr. Sarjinder Singh, an associate professor in the Department of Mathematics, notes that the event is an illustration for the importance of statistics as something that touches the real world. “We want to show to the people—all the students and the community here—how statistics is useful in our daily
life, real life,” he explained before one of Friday’s talks Singh has had experience in showing just that; since its beginnings, he has been responsible for organizing the event, coupled with the cooperation of other faculty members. The desire to share the worth of a subject in many fields has been central to Statistics Day since its start. As Singh recounts its history, “Statistics Day at Texas A&M University-Kingsville began in 2012, soon after Dr. Ravi Agarwal joined the Mathematics Department as Chair. During a departmental meeting, he raised the question of whether we might host a statistics day in order to promote our new graduate program, Statistical Analytics Computing and Modeling (SACM), as well as to raise awareness on campus of statistics in general.” Since then, Statistics Day has welcomed speakers with a broad range of expertise.
Celebrating the inspiring life of Dr. Hector Garcia
Samuel Galindo Reporter
Courtesy photo
Congratulations! Your 2016-2017 SGA senators and executives are: Sophomore Class Senator: Fabian Williams Chimenum Glory Elenwo Olanrewaju Osemi Junior Class Senators: Tessie Ledesma Senior Class Senators: Alex Castro Kaley Dodd Rachelle Mian Harshitha Guduru Graduate Senator: Teresa Norton Vamshi Krisna Chava Senator-at-Large: Monica Hysquierdo Ebenezer Oloba Seth Kravetz
College of Ag. Senator: Glynna Nickle Cecilia Munoz College of A&S Senator: Sarjin Niraula Paul Dunnand Kaina Martinez College of Business Senator: Sarah Keith College of Engineering Senator: Anthony Gonzalez Joey Raya Ganta Hariprasad Martin Mendoza College of Education Senator: Isaiah Culpepper Vice President: Christina Williams President: David Barrera
As Singh recounted, “On the Fifth Annual Statistics Day, topics of interest were modeling vaccine acceptance and disease spread, medicine and money, complex matter space, reproduction of number of epidemics, longitudinal data analysis, and new theoretical developments.” Ryan Wiatrek, a TAMUK student pursuing a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, popped in for two talks on Friday: one by Dr. George Yanev of the University of Texas— Rio Grande Valley, and a second featuring Dr. Bryan Dimitrov of Kettering University in Flint, Michigan. Just prior to entering the classroom, Wiatrek noted, “I think that stats are a very important part of any major, because they play a role in all of our research…So, once you understand stats, then you can have a better understanding of the research in your field.” It is something worth celebrating, with paper chains and student audiences. Kaitlin Ruiz on Twitter: @kaitlinruiz95
From the Peacock Auditorium, Texas A&M University-Kingsville celebrated a father to civil rights for Mexican-Americans. It was a fitting twist, then, the speaker of honor knew him not only for his efforts for justice, but by a more familiar word: “Dad.” On Wednesday, April 20, the Peacock Auditorium, Cecelia Garcia Akers discussed the legacy of her father, Dr. Hector P. Garcia. Akers, who now heads the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Foundation, stopped by Texas A&M University-Kingsville to talk about her new book, “The Inspiring Life of Dr. Hector P. Garcia,” about a man who dedicated his life to fighting for Mexican-American rights across the country. Akers held a book signing in the TAMUK bookstore, where every copy of her
book quickly sold out; she then held a lecture in the Peacock Auditorium. In her lecture, Akers discussed how her father tirelessly strove to secure better education and voting rights for Mexican-Americans. The product of one of Garcia’s many efforts was establishing the American G.I. Forum, a group aimed at the promotion of veterans’ rights. Garcia witnessed the injustices done to the Latino community and refused to stand idly by. While serving as a leader in the civil rights movement, Garcia also worked as a medical doctor in Corpus Christi, where he was able to reach out to many hurting people throughout the community. In a Q&A session that Akers held after her lecture, Akers responded to a question regarding her father’s legacy being taught in schools Akers responded: “He has not gotten his due. We tried
to get [book publishers] to mention him more but it has just not happened.” Injustices of this kind are the primary reason Akers wrote, and is now promoting her book. Garcia was more than just a leader in the civil rights movement; he represented the voice of a minority that had been told to be silent. As long as he was around, the voice of the Mexican-American community would be silent no longer In light of his work, much progress has been made. In 1984, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Ronald Reagan, a medal he then proudly wore everywhere he went. Although Garcia passed away in 1996, his legacy continues to live on as a reminder to all that hard work and dedication can change the course of history. Follow Samuel Galindo on Twitter: @samgalindo37
of Kingsville gain a better understanding of financial responsibility, as well is becoming more aware of its importance in our society. The speaker for this event will be Harry Moser, former president for GF AgieCharmilles and participant in President Barack Obama’s Insourcing Forum at the White House in 2012. Moser has won multiple awards, including: being named Quality magazine’s Quality Professional of the Year in 2012; winning The Economist debate on outsourcing and offshoring in 2013; and receiving the Manufacturing
Leadership Council’s Industry Advocacy Award in 2014. With a stellar track record and a master’s degree in Engineering from MIT, Moser’s message, “Reshoring of American Manufacturing: The manufacturing industry as a resource of wealth for the economy and its relevance for our future competitiveness,” will be centered on calculating the total cost of outsourcing offshore. For further information on this event, please contact Julie Navejar at: 361-593-2590, or julie.navejar@tamuk.edu. Follow Samuel Galindo on Twitter: @samgalindo37
Helping Hoggies balance their future checkbooks Samuel Galindo Reporter
Thursday, April 28, the Texas A&M University-Kingsville College of Business Administration will host the 6th annual Community Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. in the ballrooms of the Memorial Student Union Building. The event will be co-hosted by the Kleberg County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Kingsville Chamber of Commerce, and is sponsored by IBC bank. The purpose of this event is to help students, faculty members, and residents
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Thursday
April 28, 2016
southtexannews.com
OPINION
Angela Garza
@angarza15
Fall 2016 will bring Campus Carry Law to TAMUK Staff Consensus
Along with the booklists and backpacks to be readied for the fall 2016 semester, a recently passed Texas law has introduced a new item: beginning in August, licensed holders will be permitted to bring concealed handguns onto college campuses in Texas. In view of the changes that the Texas Campus Concealed Carry Law will bring to Texas A&M University-Kingsville, the staff of The South Texan met to discuss concerns, and what can be counted with thankfulness in this situation. Collectively, we would like to submit that while the bill itself is not satisfactory in our view, the ways in which the Texas A&M System—and specifically TAMUK—has responded should be commended. Raul Altamirano, chief reporter for The South Texan, articulates the concern that we have felt in connection with the new law. “The fear of a situation escalating where a certain individual decides to exude an overflowing sense of machismo still lingers in the back of my mind. I’m hoping for the best, but the thought of an incident occurring where someone decides to pull out their gun and use it just for the sake of using it feels inevitable,” he noted. It is a worry that arises not out of contempt for the Second Amendment, but from the possibility of a weapon misplaced or mishan-
dled. Samuel Galindo, reporter for The South Texan, explains why we have been wary on the matter. “In regards to the Texas Campus Carry Law, I cannot help but become plagued with mixed feelings for this rather bold move. However, it does not surprise me. Texas has been and most likely always will be a state that will ‘cling to its guns.’” “However, with so many disastrous campus shooting taking place on campuses throughout the country, I believe this law should be closely monitored...because the small number of bad ones can do a great deal of damage to Texas college students.” Yet, as Altamirano observes, through its SB-11 Committee, TAMUK has done much to assuage fears in its handling of the law. This is due, in part, to the university’s willingness to receive feedback from the campus community, as well as their transparency throughout the process. “It is evident by how many revisions and drafts are available online via TAMUK’s homepage that real time and consideration has been warranted by our university to make sure the real concerns of students and staff are considered before any policies are set in stone,” Altamirano explained. Part of TAMUK’s strength on this subject has also come through its specificity, Altamirano holds. “While the constraints on other universities within the A&M system seem to have
general guidelines for where concealed firearms would not be permitted, TAMUK has provided its campus with a litany of areas, specifically named, where said firearms would absolutely not be allowed. A few of those places include where flammables are located as well as wherever minors are present.” Angela Garza, editorial editor for The South Texan, in summing her concerns, is sure to offer thanks where due. “I may not feel safe with this new state law that has been passed, but A&M has calmed my overwhelming anxiety and paranoia at least a tad by laying out strict rules about where firearms may be permitted. All I can say is, thank you to the hardworking people of Texas A&M-Kingsville who have worked tirelessly to make this campus a safer place.”
Together, we as the staff of The Staff Texan offer our thanks to those at Texas A&M University-Kingsville who have offered an example of excellence, and thought, in ensuring that the safety of the TAMUK community remains at the forefront. Follow The South Texan on Twitter: @thesouthtexan
A Final Farewell: Departing staff bids goodbye to TAMUK Raquel Espinoza Contributor
“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Yes, that is a quote from Winnie the Pooh. As I’m writing my farewell, I can’t help but think about just how privileged I’ve been to have the most amazing experiences here at this university. Being from Kingsville, I didn’t really feel that it would impact me in the way it has. I was lucky to have had professors that genuinely care and were willing to invest their time on me. Mr. Ranson of the Theater Department, Ms. Liz Garza of the English Department, Dr. (Manuel) Flores, Dr. (Edwin) Rowley, and Mr. (Matt) Ward of the Communications Department, as well as many others, have profoundly impacted my life. When I first started my jour-
ney at this university in fall of 2012, I was so doubtful of myself. It was hard to believe at that time that graduating college was a goal I could accomplish, but these professors instilled confidence in me I never knew I had. They made me feel like I was not just a student, but also someone of importance, someone who could make a difference in this world. I am forever grateful for that. I’ve made many friends and have had wonderful experiences I will always cherish. From traveling to Dallas to compete at the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association with the Press Club members, and traveling to Lubbock to compete in the National Student Advertising competition with my Ad Chapter, together we learned that hard work pays off. Snapple Tour 2017 may not be happening, but there is no way we will forget to save them pops! (Total insider).
I want to encourage students to get involved in activities such as these, because they help you not only make friends, but grow as a student. In my college experience here at TAMUK, I have participated in many school organizations. I was honored to have been voted as Historian for the National Theater Honor Society and Alpha Psi Omega, a contributor to The South Texan, President of the Javelina Press Club, and a member of both the American Advertising Chapter and Javelina Broadcasting Network. I was selected as Captain of Team JBN for the Turkey Bowl, but unfortunately my football playing skills were not enough to lead my team to a victory. Last semester, I was asked to join a panel for a radio show hosted by one of my best friends, Charlie Bazaldua. This show, The Cup Shower, was handed down to me to
host for this semester. It has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I feel so fortunate to have had Sebastyon Spencer, Aaron Salinas, Raul Altamirano, and Frankie Cardenas join me in panel. Our chemistry was undeniable. Together we served as television and film critics. How fun is it to be able to say we have to watch our favorite movies for homework? Not everyone is that lucky. We may have bumped heads from time to time about how many husbandoos and wifeoos such as Lee Pace and Scarlett Johansson were listening, because we know they are listening (another insider). Our friendship lasted the feuds.Thank you to all our supportive listeners for all the great feedback. It means so much to me to know so many people tuned in. I can’t wait to hear The Cup Shower Volume 3 next semester. I don’t know where life is
taking me or where I’ll go or where I’ll be, but I do know that in my heart there will always be the memories I’ll hold so dear of every experience I’ve had while I have been here. Thank you to all my friends and professors.Most importantly thank you to my parents for instilling the importance of an education to me at such a young age. I did this for me, but I did this to make you proud. That’s all I ever want in life: to make you proud. I appreciate every sacrifice you have made for me and love you. God has blessed me in many ways, and it is to him I am most grateful. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11 Follow Raquel Espinoza on Twitter: @raquelannette
There’s No Place Like Home: a return to Kansas Angela Garza Editorial Editor It feels as if I am in a pensieve, flying from one memory to the next. Not quite reliving it, but not a complete bystander either, caught in limbo. It’s not quite as bad as if there were a swarm of Dementors approaching, with all the happiness draining, only cold, hopelessness, despair remaining; instead, it’s quite the opposite. Most of the memories are actually very pleasant, making it that much more painful that’s all they are: memories. Memories that will continually be distorted with time, only being left with unfocused glimpses as the clock ticks on. A face 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).
here, a laugh there, a simple melody faintly fading fast. And to think I will be reliving this feeling in a few months time, when I leave this campus to transfer back home. University of Kansas, home of the Jayhawks, basketball champions, the list of what they are known for goes on. Yet they are missing one thing: all of the friends I have made in the short time I’ve been at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Yes, this town is small. Yes, there are definitely some things that could be better. But, for the most part, the people here are absolutely amazing. When I first came to Texas, I was taken aback by how friendly everyone
was. It made me suspicious they were after something. The only people that friendly are Jehovah’s Witnesses and salesmen. It’s not like we’re rude up north, we just don’t go out of our way to be so friendly. I will definitely miss that culture (and true Mexican food, of course). If I could, I would list absolutely everyone who has really made a difference in my life while I was here, but that would take an entire page, at least. I still can’t believe how lucky I am to have had such wonderful roommates. I always hear of the horror stories of roommates that don’t get along, but we are all so close we’ll have scary movie nights at least once
a month. We decorate for every holiday and birthday. They’re the best roommates and friends I could have ever asked for. I think another necessary thank you is due to the professors at this university. I’ve only been here for two semesters, but they have all been so great, truly wanting us to succeed. If we don’t understand the lectures, we always can go to the professors or find a tutor that works for us. And lastly, to the staff of The South Texan, the Press Club, all of you who work with the school media in some way or another: you guys are my family. Thank you for taking in this strange
Staff Crystal Zamarron- Editor-in-Chief Kaitlin Ruiz- Managing Editor Raul Altamirano- Chief Reporter/ Campus News Editor Robert Breedlove- Sports Editor Bobby Puentes- #JavLife Editor Hayley Morgan- Advertising Mgr. Frankie Cardenas- Reporter Samuel Galindo- Reporter
Xavier Aguilar- Reporter Angel Castillo- Photographer Veronica Cepeda- Photographer Angela Garza- Editorial Editor/ Photographer Siddharth Tuplondhe- Cartoonist D.A. Zapata- Entertainment Critic Dr. Manuel Flores- Adviser Matthew Ward- Adviser
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engineer to your normally communications-exclusive zone. All the late nights we’ve worked putting the paper together or arduous meetings attempting to come up with ways to raise money were some of my favorite nights here. It was just that we were all together is what make it so memorable and enjoyable. I’ll definitely miss you guys the most. Dear, dear TAMUK, I’m sorry things didn’t work out between us, but I think it’s time we started seeing other people. Thank you for everything and helping me realize my next step in life. Follow Angela Garza on Twitter: @angarza15
Rebecca Martinez Contributor
Fare-well, used to express wishes on parting. If you use it as a noun it is known as an act of parting or of making someone’s departure, according to Google. But to me farewell is not saying good-bye; this farewell is an ”I’ll see you later.” As much as I wanted to give up and move back to the Valley and say “farewell, Kingsville.” I made sure to give it my all. I do not regret any moment I had here at TAMUK. There were a lot of heartaches, headaches, and obstacles. Yet, I knew that by everything I went through, I came back twice as hard to work and play even harder. I will not forget all of the amazing, intellectual, dedicated people that I’ve met here. My time here at TAMUK has been one for the books. I came in fall 2010 and was majoring in Business Management, until one day I had found a passion in the radio and switched over to Communications. Dr. Salt (Carl Saltarelli) and Dr. (Edwin) Rowley were my first professors, and I immediately knew I had made the right choice to transition to the Communications Department. If I could leave a thumbprint, it would be to tell everyone not to be discouraged on this journey you are about to embark on. Every, all-nighter, 10-page essay, senior project, and breakup is all worth it. Never settle for less, only for success. Follow Rebecca Martinez on Twitter: @badbitchbecks
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Letters must be typed, signed, and include a phone number. Letters will be edited for grammar, punctuation, libel, and profanity. Letters considered for publication must be 300 words or fewer. Letters may be hand delivered or emailed to thesouthtexan@yahoo.com Please send letters or inquiries to The South Texan at Manning Hall 165, Texas A&M University-Kingsville Kingsville, Texas 78363 (361) 593-4370
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southtexannews.com
Football makes return for Spring Game
Frankie Cardenas Sports Reporter
Pads and helmets were a welcome sight in Javelina Nation this past Saturday, as the Javelina football team took the field for the first time in front of a waiting crowd for the Texas A&M University-Kingsville MakeA-Wish Spring Football Game. As both Team Blue and Team White took the field, what had begun as a lopsided affair turned into a competitive thriller that gave the fans in attendance an exciting show, which ended in a victory for The Blue, 28-21. The first quarter opened up with Team White being led by Senior quarterback Connor Smith in the first, who struggled to get it going offensively throughout the game. He went 6-13 for 118 yards, and had a slew of mishaps, including throwing two picks. For team Blue, taking command of the offense to start was familiar face and redshirt senior Myles Carr, who had a great first drive and game overall. He threw for just a shade under 100 yards, with a touchdown and a late game interception. After a fumble by Jovan Thomas on what looked to be a huge play, redshirt sophomore DB Kuziah Ferebee would recover and give team Blue their first possession. The Blue drew first blood, when 21-yard rushing touchdown by Greg Pitre gave them a 7-0 lead.
Redshirt sophomore DB Devonte Williams would showcase his presence on the field, picking off Smith late in the first quarter; not much was to be seen from the remainder of the quarter. The second period would bring yet another rushing touchdown from Pitre, and put the Blue up 14-0. However, in the blink of an eye, a two possession game came within one, as sophomore Nick Pelrean reversed field on a handoff that saw him take it to the house for 70 yards. As the clock had approached the final minute mark in the half, what seemed to be a running clock tactic turned into a scoring opportunity after Pitre went wild for 44 yards on the ground on the opening play of the final drive. Further, a heave from redshirt junior QB Darrow Adams to redshirt sophomore TE Jovan Thomas brought the Blue to the one-yard line with only a second to spare. A QB-sneak later, and the blue took a 21-7 lead into halftime. The third quarter was all about comebacks. Freshman QB Joey Dominguez connected with junior RB Luis Lopez in the open field, as Lopez would turn on the hit-stick on his way into the endzone for a 31 yard score. The score was 21-14, with 6:12 left in the period. The game would be rather stale from then on, until the closing minutes of the fourth. With just a couple seconds under the three minute
Photo by Angela Garza
Team White did its best to keep with Team Blue but came out short in the end, losing 28-21, in the Make-A-Wish Spring Game at Javelina Stadium, last Saturday. mark, Team White Freshman WR Wesley McCoy broke into the secondary, and caught a 64-yard pass from Dominguez that would tie things up at 21 apiece. Blue set-up in the two-minute drill on the ensuing drive behind Myles Carr, but was brought to a halt when Carr threw into an open field of white jerseys, and was picked off by junior DB Emond Hobbs.
However, just a few plays later, what could have been a game-winning drive ended abruptly, as redshirt sophomore WR Jaylen Hunter fumbled the football, which put the ball back in Carr’s hands. That would lead to Carr throwing into the hands of sophomore WR Aaron Dilworth for a 21-yard score that would ultimately end the game 28-21, with Team Blue topping Team White. Pitre was the leading
rusher with 115 yards on the ground for the Blue, as Pelrean had 87 for the White. Team White had three sacks to the Blues’ one, and defensively, both teams showcased a ton of defensive prowess. Head Coach Daren Wilkinson said that there were not a lot of surprises on the field as far as the players who were making plays, saying, “The same guys who made plays today, are the same
guys who have made plays all spring long. I am not at all surprised about how this game played out.” Although the Hoggies still have a workload while awaiting the fall, they nevertheless put on a show for all of Javelina Nation to witness. The Javelinas’ first game will be on September 3 in the coming fall semester. Follow Frankie Cardenas on Twitter: @FrankieJ_suckaa
Spring Game showcases talent; future
may be bring for Javelinas in 2016 Frankie Cardenas Sports Reporter Well, well, well. As it turns out, even in the offseason, the Javelinas have found a way to lose a game... To themselves! Isn’t that hilarious? Confused? I would be, too. All jokes aside, the Javelinas had a doozie of a showcase on Saturday during the Spring Football Game that surely raised a ton of eyebrows. After all, I can focus on the positives of this game, and feel more confident in a team that collectively had four rushing touchdowns in the first half alone. From the looks of things, it seemed as if the running game could have an amazing season in the fall. I saw running back Greg Pitre look so poised moving out of the backfield and following his offensive line on pace to 115 yards. He was following his blocks and waiting for his holes to open up before he burst into the second level on every run, and the patience he showed rivaled that of his performance from last season. I know it’s hard to assess a difference in a game that means nothing, but the player I saw out on the turf was an evolved version of himself. I had a conversation with Pitre afterwards, and he told me that closing out last
season, he figured out how he could be a better player, and that he’s been able to work on more of his game all spring, something that he hasn’t had the luxury of doing before this season. “Usually, I’ve had to worry about two positions, other than a specialty. This spring, I’ve been able to focus more on being a running back than being a running back, a return man, and a special team’s specialist. Now that I have time to work on just my one position, I can focus all my attention on being the best running back I can be,” Pitre told me. I couldn’t be happier to hear those words spew out of him. The man sounds like a leader, and I appreciate that we have somebody like him to lead the rushing attack, assuming he gets the starting nod come September. Honestly, all of the running backs are showing promise, especially Luis Lopez—who, quite frankly, was just steamrolling players and gave flashes of beast-mode that had me begging for more. I would not have been alone; Coach Wilkinson loves the running game, so I can almost guarantee that he was pleased with what he saw. Defensively, aside from some of the defensive backs being burned like ramen noodles without water, there were some bright spots during the course of the
game. Kuziah Ferebee, Emond Hobbs and Devonte Williams looked phenomenal, and I feel like we’ll hear those names more than a few times come the fall with pass deflections and tackles left and right. They made plays through the air, and broke up passes to two of the top seven recievers in the Lone Star Conference last season, holding Anthony Autry and Jordan Thomas to five receptions combined. The defensive lines for both teams were applying pressure on the edges and forcing the pocket to collapse on virtually every snap. The Hogs are going to have a ton of depth in the trenches, and it’s a pleasing sight to see. Just on the eye test alone, it’s evident that this team, barring any setback or injury and waiting for a possible true freshman call-up from the 30-plus player recruiting class, will do a whole lot better than they did in this previous season. Until then, all we can do as spectators is just take our vacations and wait, as the Javelina’s work in the offseason. They have an enormous amount of potential to do something great now. Let’s hope they don’t squander it. Follow Frankie Cardenas on Twitter: @FrankieJ_suckaa
Photo by Angela Garza
Team Blue’s offense provided some sparks during the annual Spring Football Game. Here Greg Pitre (33) ramblesfor yardage against Team White. Below: defense also shined early during game.
Photo by Angela Garza
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southtexannews.com
Spring semester in review
Basketball sinks ... baseball and track soar ... football hype train begins to roll
Photo by Angel Castillo
Cris Boleware makes a drive to the basket against the Cameron Aggies. The men saw a slight improvement in their overall win total from last year with an 11-15 and nearly toppled number one seed Angelo State in the Lone Star Conference Tournament. The women weren’t so lucky, finishing 0-16 in conference play for the second season in a row, extending their LSC losing streak to 33 games.
Photo by Robert Breedove
Roxy Chapa saves a run with a diving tag at home plate against the Cameron Aggies. Javelina softball finished their season 22-33 overall with an 11-21 record in conference play an improvement over their 8-19-1 record the previous season.
Polish athletes form kinship over competition Racquel Espinoza Contributer
For most college athletes being away from home is a part of life they have to accept. it is part of the sacrifice that comes with committing to a team. For these two gentlemen, Polish natives, Michael Idziak and Wiktor Hudyka, the sacrifice is even greater. Michael and Wiktor have traveled approximately 6,000 miles, they left their families, their friends, and a life they were accustomed to in order to become Javelina athletes. Their lives in Poland are very different; they had to adjust to a different culture and environment. Wiktor Hudyka, 22, hails from Kraków. He studies Mechanical Engineering and will have a minor in mathematics. He is the defensive back for the Javelina Football team. Unlike most of the boys on our team here playing their whole lives, Wiktor began playing when was 16 years old. “I never thought of myself as a gifted athlete but, when I realized that this is what I would like to do, I started working super hard to master my skills that brought me here to Texas”. Football in Poland is fairly
new; people are still learning the game. He stays motivated by keeping his family and friends that look up to him in his thoughts. “When it gets hard I think about the flag that I wear on the back of my helmet and how proud I am of wearing it, it just gives me strength to push myself even harder.” He has made his big dream into a reality by getting offers to continue his career on the field after college. Wiktor credits his coaches for having such success and wishes to carry all the skills he has learned here to on pass to his teammates back in Poland. Michael Idziak, 23, is from Mosina and a member of the Javelina Track team. He is Criminology major, and will be graduating this May with honors. He received a full scholarship to attend our university. He found his passion for track in the most unexpected way. As punishment for getting in trouble in the 2nd grade, he was grounded and had to over 130 laps around his home. Michael has earned numerous titles and is nationally recognized. He participates in the 800- Meter dash, breaking the school record of 1:49:64, as well as running the 400-meter and 1500 meter.
When asked about his thoughts on the starting line before each race, he responded that there is only one thought that comes to mind. “Mike, you live and train for these 2 laps, have fun, don’t fail, go kill it!”. His coaches and teammates praise his dedication and consistent positivity. Most would say he is inspiring. Michael says he owes his success to God. “I believe that God gave me that gift for a reason, we as humans should take advantage of any uniqueness we have. Then also I know people believe in me and want me to succeed, so I don’t want to disappoint them. Finally, I do it for myself; I love to compete, I love winning.” The two did not come to our university together; they were fortunate enough to find each other here. Since meeting the pair have become like brothers. Having someone speaking in your native language so far away from home made it easier for them to adjust to life here. They have gained a life long friendship. Both Michael and Wiktor have enjoyed their time at Texas A&M University- Kingsville and carry their experience and memories back home to Poland. Follow Rocky Espinoza on Twitter: @raquelannette
Photo by Angela Garza
Baseball continued their dominance at the Conference level, powered by freshman bats like Ruben Almaguer (pictured above). They currently sit atop the Lone Star Conference standings and are in line to host their third straight LSC Tournament. They also hope to make a return to the South Central Regional Tournament after missing it last year and break through to the National Tourney for the first time in school history.
Courtesy photo
Michal Idziak runs the 4X400 relay at the Cactus Cup in Kingsville. He took gold in the 800 meter at the Lone Star Conference meet with a time of 1:56.35. He finished seventh at the Division II National Championships
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