The South Texan Vol. 95 Issue 4

TheSouthTexan.com

Texas A &M University-Kingsville Award-Winning Student Publication Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Submitted Photo

Knowledge the key to equality Ronni Reyna | News Editor news.editor@thesouthtexan.com

Dr. Craig A. Meyer is a professor who uses his voice for good. He makes his classroom a safe and equal space for his students, no matter their background, former students say.

Discrimination against a student’s race, sex, religion, sexuality or age is not tolerated within the walls of his classroom or in his presence. Meyer strives to make his students feel equal and safe and is open about his support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Meyer can be seen around campus with BLM

Online

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Hispanic Heritage Student Activites kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15 at the SUB pavillion. They distributed tacos, other Mexican cuisine and drinks to showcase the university’s close ties to Hispanic culture.

SPORTS PG.5 Vol. 95 Issue 4

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In a pre-COVID Histories of Rhetoric class, Dr. Meyer uses an elevated chair to symbolize independent thought.

Dr. Meyer voices his support for students, BLM

NEW STRENGTH COACH

QUOTABLE

‘Knowledge IS power. I have chosen to use that power to empower others.’

-Dr. Craig Meyer

pins adorning his shirts.

Meyer is an Associate Professor of English at Texas A&M University-Kingsville who, “cares about the growth of his students and the education he provides them,” former student Robert Trujillo said.

Trujillo is an English teacher at Santa Gertrudis High School and a former student of Meyer.

“Dr. Meyer helped me realize my potential and what was holding me back from growing as a writer, and more importantly, as an individual,” Trujillo said.

Meyer does not merely seek to inspire the students in his classroom; he

challenges his students and pushes them to find answers leading to a place of self-learning. His classes have been described as more than a grade, but more as an opportunity to learn about individual potential to grow as a scholar, Trujillo said.

“He taught me that I need to think for myself and to not only stand up for others, but to help guide them in finding their voice,” he said.

Meyer described his friends growing up in Michigan as having different skin tones and backgrounds, but not recognizing what it fully meant as a kid.

“I recognized we were visibly different, but it didn’t dawn on me that those exterior aspects impacted how my friends were seen by others, because it didn’t affect how I saw them,” Meyer said.

“Growing up we all have a few best friends. Half of mine did not have white skin. To answer this question, why I do what I do, is simple: I do it because it’s the right thing to do.

Everyone must decide if they will be complicit and watch injustice or they will speak up and actually do something. I prefer not to be complicit or let injustice have free reign. If one person is treated unjustly, un-

fairly, unequally, we are all harmed in some way.”

Meyer recalls specific moments relating to injustice that showed problems with race in this country.

One specific event included the attack on Rodney King in 1991.

“I couldn’t understand, even comprehend, why they [police officers] just kept beating him. He was in no condition to fight back; yet, they kept beating him and kicking him.

It was like the pictures and rare videos of the Civil Rights Movement but happening during my lifetime and in color,” Meyer

recalls.

Video captured in 1991 showed King being beaten by four officers – three of them white – after he led them on a chase. They were acquitted of charges and riots ensued in Los Angeles.

The BLM movement has swept the country over the past few years and without it, Meyer said his views would be unwavering over the racial injustice still happening today.

“The importance of BLM is to bring attention to the ONGOING injustices we see almost every day,” he said.

In the classroom, Meyer works hard to not be political and to find ways in which he can provide fair representation of issues.

He does this for his students, so they can make better-informed decisions, create and examine their arguments of their own political position.

“I don’t think BLM alone affects the way I teach. Rather, it helps students focus on some of the things I teach in class,” he said.

Dr. Pamela Wright, a professor in the Department of Language and Literature, describes Meyer as interesting and impressive.

“I have not observed See Meyer, Pg 6

Career Services relocates Moved under Division of Institutional Advancement

Aryssa Enriquez | Editor-in-Chief

chief.editor@thesouthtexan.com

Career Services at Texas A&M University-Kingsville is seeing a change in direction as it merges with the Division of Institutional Advancement.

The hope is to improve networks between employers, students and alumni.

“The senior administration made the strategic decision to add the Office of Career Services to the Division of Institutional Advancement,” Brad Walker, vice president of Institutional Advancement & External Relations and CEO of Texas A&M University-Kingsville Foundation, said. “We believe this will best serve our students and the university. We see an opportunity to improve the interaction between employers, alumni and our students. There are other universities that use a similar structure and we have communicated with them so that we can bring the best practices in career services to our campus.”

Despite changes, the Office of Career Services continues to offer students the same services as before. Career Services has moved all of its services online in efforts to continue to prepare students for potential jobs during the time of COVID-19.

Career Services develops a weekly Kingsville Community Job Listing so that students are aware of off-campus employment opportunities.

“As for career fairs,

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Dr. Meyer uses his platform at TAMUK to empower his students.

See Career Services, Pg 6

COVID cases minimal on campus Officials credit students Aryssa Enriquez | Editor-in-Chief chief.editor@thesouthtexan.com

As Javelina Nation navigates through uncharted waters by adapting to hybrid and online learning, officials are seeing minimal cases of COVID-19 so far this semester.

Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) approaches its fifth week of on-campus instruction, with only four percent out of 822 tests being identified as positive for COVID-19. Since reopening in August, TAMUK has had 33 COVID-19

positive cases as of Monday, Sept. 21. COVID-19 reached its peak the week ending on Sept.6, with a total of 14 cases.

Latest results indicate that there is three active student cases on campus, and four off campus. No employee or third party cases have been identified as of Monday.

In comparison to other universities, TAMUK is experiencing significantly low COVID-19 cases.

“I would attribute the rate of COVID-19 spread and infection on our campus is due to the unique set of students who comprise the Texas A&M Un iversit y-Ki ngsville student-body,” Dr. Lou Reinisch, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said. “I would like to say it was the care and effort we put into preparing classrooms with social

Aryssa Enriquez

TAMUK continues to closely monitor the number of COVID-19 cases on campus.

distancing, the cleaning of the facilities and our QR codes to help in contact tracking that caused our COVID-19 cases to stay

low. However, we, as a university, are not doing anything differently from some of those universities where the number

of COVID-19 cases are sky-rocketing. Therefore, See COVID, Pg 6

Campus

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September 22, 2020

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Tutors, mentors provide services virtually Students miss faceto-face outreach JoshuaMendez| Contributing Writer

With the onset of COVID-19, many services that were originally provided here at Texas A&M University-Kingsville have had to be greatly modified.

The Center for Student Success (CFSS) provides many services, but two of them are especially needed during this unconventional year.

They are the Pathways Academic Assistance Center (PAAC), which provides tutoring services to students in need, and the Peer Assistance Leaders (PAL), who guide and prepare students in their transition from high school to

college.

With face-to-face meetings being a thing of the past, the two have had to adjust in order to provide the same level of service as before the pandemic, but in order for that to happen precautions had to be taken to ensure the safety of the PAAC tutors as well as the PAL mentors.

“As we returned to campus, we followed the university’s return to campus plan which means we follow social distancing, wear masks, wash hands, frequent sanitation of work stations, etc.” Christina Gonzalez, the director of Academic Success who oversees both services, said.

“While all CFSS staff and student employees are required to work in our offices and centers, we are continuing to serve students virtually so there is no face-to-face interactions between staff and students.”

Lizzetty Lara is a PAL mentor with the CFSS. “I think the center is

taking all the necessary and required precautions to ensure everyone is safe,” she said.

The absence of face-toface meetings has proven difficult for tutors, who are used to in-person tutoring sessions.

“Because many students do not turn on their cameras, it’s hard for tutors to gauge a student’s non-verbal communication. Tutors love to see their students reach that ‘aha’ moment when they come to understand the solution of a problem,” Gonzalez said. Blessing Tamez, a Kinesiology tutor for the PAAC also said there are some issues with virtual tutoring.

“I do feel that there is a communication barrier between tutors and the students (WiFi/audio issues),” Tamez said.

As for the PAL mentoring program, it has its own share of challenges.

“I just find it unfortunate that the students I work with won’t be able to get help in a focused environment that in-per-

Joshua Mendez

John Ruiz in his cubicle in the office for student success

son sessions provide,” Lara said. “Incoming freshmen may not know a lot of people coming to campus, they already have a sense of being isolated and having to spend every day behind a mask makes it even more difficult to make new friends or meet new people.”

Providing the same quality of service as be-

fore COVID is an obvious concern, but both the PAAC and the PAL mentors seem ready for the task.

“I am confident in being able to provide the same services as before COVID because we have so many online resources.” Lara said.

Tamez said the PAAC is set for the semester.

“I do feel the PAAC

is prepared for how the semester will play out,” Tamez said. “Our boss and her team have done a great job at maintaining a safe environment for the tutors and receptionists.”

“We have met and discussed how things will play out if certain issues arise, and everything is well thought out.”

Quarantine fatigue affects motivation

Tips to help students stay focused ClarissaOrtiz| Contributing Writer

As students enter into the fifth week of the fall semester, many students and teachers have spent more hours completing schoolwork from home rather than at school, which can affect motivation levels.

At Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) classes are a mix of face-to-face, co-flex or online. Having nowhere to be most days can make it hard to get started in the morning, thus making it hard to get started on any schoolwork.

According to National Public Radio, social distancing has slowed COVID-19, but quarantine fatigue is taking a toll, resulting in loneliness that can spur other health problems. Keeping up-beat and motivated to complete assignments can be a challenge.

“When I feel unmotivated, I allow myself to take small breaks,” TAMUK Peer Mentor Clarissa Benavides said.

“If I try to work while I am unmotivated, it will never be my best work.

Giving myself some time to step away and come back with a fresh start always makes me feel so much better.”

Benavides also says that keeping a planner could help with time management, which is a must right now for college students.

With online classes it can be hard to remember due dates since a professor cannot remind students about them face-to-face two to three times a week.

It is important, though, for students to check their student email regularly.

TAMUK Academic Advisor Suzanne Gonzalez said that setting re-

alistic goals and rewarding yourself for those goals can help students stay motivated.

She also explains that music is a great mood changer and can help you feel more motivated.

“I recommend to students who are struggling to stay motivated…maintain the proper mindset and just get it done,” she said.

Other tips to consider include waking up at a decent hour Monday through Friday even if you have nowhere to be and having a good routine in the morning to help wake yourself up.

A good routine can include a workout, a shower, some breakfast and maybe a large cup of coffee.

Following some of these tips can help you stay focused. Learning to stay motivated during difficult times is essential for success.

Laser tag event held Thursday GermaineGoss| Contributing Writer

Run, hurry, find a safe zone. The basketball courts of the Students Recreation Center transformed into a laser tag arena on Thursday, Sept.

17.

The Campus Activity Board strategically planned the event to

abide to campus safety guidelines. COVID-19 protocols were in full effect amid the fun Thursday.

“We combined with Simplified Events and Entertainment to make the environment COVID-19 friendly,” Campus Activity Board

Germain Goss

Students play laser tag at the Student Recreation Center.

President Lizzetty Lara said.

Students enjoyed a night of fun with friends while being able to keep safe.

“The event was well organized; I had a great time being able to have fun on campus through these trying times,” KeAaron Sanders, attendee of the laser tag event, said. “More organizations should take after CAB to organize great events.”

Although it’s a difficult time, the university continues to keep students engaged.

“It was a great atmosphere; I had a great time.

I cannot wait to attend more COVID-19 friendly events,” Craig Clemons, attendee of the laser tag, said. “The event was run very smoothly and everyone wore a mask which made the event feel safe.”

CAB will be hosting more COVID -19 friendly events in the near future, the next one being held on Oct. 22, more details will be announced soon.

Entertainment

September 22, 2020

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Tom Hardy’s Capone will make your head spiral

Overall, it’s an extremely intense movie that at some points is uncomfortable to watch CalistaReyes|Campus Editor

Campus.editor@thesouthtexan.com

Watching the film Capone was an entire experience.

It will give you a headache from trying to figure out what exactly happened.

It’s awesome.

It could’ve had a better story plot, but the way the movie makes you feel emotionally and mentally is what makes it so unique.

Anyone who has heard the name Al Capone knows it’s a name that struck fear in many people from the 1920s to the ’40s.

This story, however, is not the tale of Al Capone the mob boss but of a tortured man with extreme deteriorating health.

Although this story is for the most part fictional it does give you an insight into what the last year of Capone’s life could have been like as he was slowly dying from late stage syphilis.

It does help to know a little bit of background information about Capone as throughout the film some of the horrible things he’s done comes back to haunt him. It’s up to you decide if it haunts him figuratively or literally. The important thing to know before

watching this film is that Capone was the mastermind behind many terrible events that plagued Chicago in the 1920s including the St. Valentine’s Day massacre.

Although the law and public were aware of this, they could not put him in prison for it because, unfortunately, many of the judges and juries at the time were bribed so they had to settle for getting him on tax invasion charges instead.

In 1939, after serving a portion of his sentence, he was released from prison due to his declining health.

This story begins in 1947, the last year of his life when he and his family were exiled to Florida.

When you meet Capone, he is not like his infamous pictures that circle books and the internet; he his frail, skinny, has leathery skin and icy blue bloodshot eyes.

It’s terrifying.

Tom Hardy stars as Capone and his entire performance is chilling in the best way possible. His impression of the mobster’s voice is spot on and with his prosthetic makeup it’s a whole transformation.

As syphilis starts to attack his nervous system and his brain his state of mind begins to regress.

His wife Mae, played by Linda Cardellini, is told by the family doctor that his mental state has regressed to that of a small child. This is also when the hallucinations begin and this is where you, along with Capone, begin to spiral out of control.

Throughout the film he experiences so many hallucinations that by the middle of the film you find yourself in the same boat as Capone and are questioning what’s real and what isn’t.

You begin to question whether the people he was actually speaking to were there. Were they ghosts?

Every single time that it seems that everything is back to normal and that the hallucination has ended you find out that a new one has begun and you won’t know when the next one begins either.

He begins to turn against his family because he is paranoid that the FBl is secretly listening to his every conversation with the intention of putting him behind bars again.

His paranoia is what makes the family doctor warn them about the possibility of him becoming extremely dangerous.

The cinematography is very ominous and has

How to adult: What to do if you get pulled over Ronni Reyna|News Editor

News.editor@thesouthtexan.com

What should you do if you get pulled over by law enforcement?

Yes, you may be scared if you know you were speeding or know your registration is expired but just try to stay calm.

Panicking is easy to do if you do not know why you are being pulled over or if you know you did something wrong, just breathe.

You’ll want to roll your window about halfway down as the officer approaches; and rest your hands on the steering wheel. Do not reach for any documents without being asked for them.

If it’s dark turn on an interior light so the officer can see you.

These actions may help put the officer at ease and give them a better visual on the situation.

Try to stay still until the officer asks for your driver’s license.

You will also be asked for your registration and proof of insurance on the vehicle so make sure you keep an updated note of your insurance in the vehicle.

Place these documents in an easy to reach place like in your sun visor, center console or glovebox. Do not step out of your car unless the officer informs you to do so.

They may think you are trying to flee even if that is not your intention.

The officer will most likely ask where you’re

coming from or where you are going to get an idea of what you might be doing.

They will probably ask you a few questions about where you live and your address just to verify you are the person on the identification you gave them.

If you do not have your license with you be honest and give the officer your full name, address and date of birth.

If you know your driver’s license number give that to them as well If you end up getting a ticket be respectful, you made a mistake and that’s okay. Ask the officer any questions you might have, they should be understanding and help.Just remember to stay calm and drive safe.

Photo by Webmedia Showtimes Feed

a dark aesthetic that sets the mood for the whole film. The thing about this film is that it doesn’t really have a point.

It’s simply telling a story which is what got it mixed reviews.

You either love this film for what it is or you

hate it.

There really isn’t an in between.

Overall, it’s an extremely intense movie that at some points is uncomfortable to watch but in the best way possible.

It’s a film that fright-

ens and tricks the mind.

It’s a borderline psychological thriller.

It’s a highly enjoyable experience if you take it for what it is.

If you wanna give this film a try you can find it on Amazon Prime Video or for rent on YouTube.

SPORTS TAMUK athletic staff working towards common goal 4

September 22, 2020

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Training staff adheres to new COVID-19 protocols JacquelineBarrera| Sports Editor sports.editor@thesouthtexan.com

Behind every athlete is an athletic trainer who is willing to always go the extra mile. This stands true for the Texas A&M University – Kingsville athletic training (AT) staff.

The TAMUK athletic trainers have continued to adjust and adhere to the new protocols in position due to COVID-19.

After months of changed policies and rewritten procedures,

the athletic training staff feels confident with their current game plan.

Julie Oberriter, assistant athletic trainer, believes the policy and procedure in place has adequately utilized the current CDC, Texas State Health and many other health organizations’ recommendations and requirements to keep staff and student athletes in the safest environment possible.

“There are several requirements we have enforced as a department here at TAMUK in which are relatively easy to adhere to,” Oberriter said.

“COVID testing of ALL student-athletes upon arrival to Kingsville, COVID testing of a percentage of inner bub-

ble staff and student-athletes every two weeks, daily temperature and symptom checks, mask requirements for all lifts, transportation, locker room time, etc.”

Athletic staff members feel just as confident about these policies.

Ianna Leon-Guerrero, graduate assistant athletic trainer, feels that COVID-19 has made a chaotic impact but remains passionate about her work.

“I chose this profession because it brings together the life of athletics and the realm of medicine,” she said.

“For those on the outside looking in, it may seem like we have sideline passes for competitions, but it is much

bigger than that,” Guerrero said. “It’s difficult to describe the feeling but it is a sense of accomplishment or proudness. As an athletic trainer you might witness an athlete at their weakness, and you are there for the entire process of recovery.

Eventually you witness them performing again and competing at their fullest capabilities, and that’s what is rewarding,” Guerrero continues.

“In the beginning it was chaotic, but with the support of the coaches and the sports medicine staff there is now a sense of routine or normalcy.

“The most enforced protocol is the daily temperature checks. These occur early in the morn-

ing and determine if athletes can participate for that day.

“Athletes may seem that this is unnecessary or an inconvenience, but it was decided that this was the best way to test ALL athletes in an efficient manner.

“I believe that as adjustments are made, it will be difficult to adapt (especially if they change daily) but as everyone is becoming familiar with the protocols and regulations, it will flow more easily,” she said.

Despite the overwhelming challenges, undergraduate athletic training students feel their education remains in great standing.

Miranda Lopez, a sophomore AT student,

understands the importance of keeping athletes, coaches and all staff members healthy.

“I feel that things have been running very smoothly for both the athletic trainers, athletes and coaches,” Lopez said.

“Temperature checks and appointments being made for treatment are set in place for the safety of athletes, coaches and ourselves. We are trying our best to do our part in slowing the spread of COVID-19 and keeping everyone as healthy as we can.”

As for this year, the TAMUK athletic staff will continue to work towards their common goal of competition this spring.

New strength, conditioning coach arrives at TAMUK Hill brings 50 years of experience to Javelinas DylanSanchez| Contributing Writer

The weight room for Javelina Athletics has a new groundskeeper by the name of Bert Hill.

Coach Hill arrived a week ago, and he is already fired up to make the Javelina football team and all athletic groups better for the future.

“I am excited. I believe everything that happens is a part of a bigger plan, and I’m excited to be here,” Hill said.

Coach Hill has dedicated more than 50 years of his life to being a strength and conditioning coach across all levels of competition.

Hill started out coaching for the Aggies from 1984 to 1987, winning multiple conference titles as part of the coaching staff.

After one year at Ohio State, he decided to take his talents to the pros where he became the strength and conditioning coach for the Detroit Lions, which at the time had legendary Barry Sanders as the running back.

In 2005, Hill under head coach Nick Saban, coached the Miami Dolphins until he decided to head back to the collegiate level to be the defensive line coach for Southern Methodist University.

While at SMU, from

2007 to 2 0 1 3 , H i l l helped b r i n g four consecutive Bert b o w l Hill game appearances, and throughout his whole career as a coach, he has helped numerous players achieve their dream of becoming drafted NFL players.

His resume is a lengthy one that shows achievement after achievement and with more than 50 years of coaching experience, head coach Michael Salinas said Hill is the right man for the job.

Salinas’s expectations are simple, “to work hard and to play hard and if we do that, to win a lot of games.”

Hill will have a lot of time to work with the programs due to COVID-19 pushing back competition until the spring, but this gives the coach more time to get settled and apply his teachings to the young men and women in the Javelina athletic program.

Hill, like when he was at other programs, said he aims for nothing short of success and winning seasons for all sports and above all else, he is absolutely ready and is excited to be a Javelina.

Javelina Athletics

Women DMR team awarded All Decade Team

Acosta radiates positivity, hope to her young athletes Former TAMUK runner named to All Decade Team JacquelineBarrera| Sports Editor sports.editor@thesouthtexan.com

Marissa Acosta was never your ordinary student-athlete. Her academic and athletic accolades speak for themselves.

Acosta is a talented individual who strives for nothing less than the

best, while pursuing her goals on the track and in the classroom.

Acosta maintained a 3.5 GPA through her entire four years at Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) and succeeded in earning her bachelor’s degree of science in Kinesiology.

The long-lived dream of the young prodigy was fulfilled and remains a warm memory in her heart.

“Running at the collegiate level is something I had always dreamed of as a kid. I loved my

Submitted Photo

Javelina Athletics

Lifiting action in Clement center at Javelina Stadium.

Marissa Acosta competiting in cross country meet.

QUOTABLE

‘....those four years at TAMUK were the best of my life’ – Marissa Acosta teammates, my coaches, and all the hard work that came with it,” Acosta said.

“In college the competition was much more intense than what you experience in high school, and I am certain those four years at TAMUK were the best of my life.”

Acosta was recently named part of the 2020 Indoor All Decade Team for track and field.

“I was super excited about being named a part of the women’s indoor track All Decade Team. It took me down memory lane, and it gave me a reason to reminisce and live in the past for a little bit.”

“As a student-athlete you make sacrifices and devote a lot of time and effort. It felt really good to have been selected and made it feel all worth it,” Acosta said.

“Coach Dall has always been a wonderful coach to me and does a great job every year with his team and staff.”

Ryan Dall, head women’s cross country/track and field coach, speaks highly of the athlete Acosta once was.

“Marissa was a very talented runner,” coach Dall said. “I only coached her for a year until we hired a distance coach full time, but she did well for our program and had a great career

with us. I enjoyed coaching her and having her on the team.”

Since her time at TAMUK, Acosta has impacted the lives of many young student-athletes at Alice High School (AHS) as she fulfills the role of women’s head track and field coach.

Many young women have felt inspired and continue to thrive off the energy and support Acosta delivers.

Criselda Cruz, a former athlete of Acosta’s, currently runs track and field for TAMUK. “In all honesty, it was a blessing to have a coach like Acosta in high school,” Cruz said.

“In high school it is not always easy to find your groove. I fell in love with the sport of track and earning a scholarship to run at the next level could not have been done without the help of Acosta. It was neat being given the chance to compete at the same university.”

Acosta remains the women’s head coach at AHS and allows her athletes to flourish in their own ways by encouraging them daily.

Acosta is and will always be a role model to others. Her success and positivity radiate through the lives of others and will continue to do so.

Forum

September 22, 2020 thesouthtexan.com

5

“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.”

Our Opinion

The time is now to act on climate change Climate change is happening. We are the generation to see it and acknowledge it. But how can we do so if our political leaders refuse to acknowledge it and discredit any ideas of its existence? Yes, the Earth goes through heating and cooling processes, but our carbon levels are at the highest they have ever been. We need laws and regulations to help slow down climate change, and we need our leaders to act now.

Climate change rollbacks are the opposite of what this country needs. If we do not take the chance to slow down emissions between now and 2035 there will be no going back or a simple fix.

We must petition political leaders and show them proof that climate change is happening and exists.

Despite the real and ever-increasing ramifications of climate change, widespread policy assertions have been disregarded.

Our country’s leaders (on both ends of the political spectrum) use climate change issues as political fodder. The rhetoric is intended to further divide voters and drive party agendas.

Elected officials forgo the act of educating their constituents, and education is vital amidst our current state of cultural dissonance.

Without education on the issue there is no case, and the leaders of our country either lack that education or choose to withhold their knowledge for the sake of alienating their supporters. If leaders discredit the validity of the issue more and more people will refuse to acknowledge what is happening.

No one government, industry or conglomerate is responsible for the increase of carbon levels, but they all have the power and resources to push the issue in a major way.

Simple laws such as California’s Vehicle Emission Laws could help slow the rate at which our planet is warming.

The federal government’s protection of forests could reduce the amount of Earth’s carbon dioxide. Industries could place a higher price on carbon, derive biofuels from organic waste and change their sources of energy. Until these changes become implemented policy and widespread reality, the task of changing the environment is in your hands.

The effort to worsen our planet’s climate has been collective, but the road to mitigating the damage done begins with individual efforts.

Now is the perfect time to “think globally, act locally.”

Take simple measures to reduce your footprint. Limit the use of single-use plastic. Recycle your bottles and cans. Dispose of trash correctly and avoid littering.

Stop walking by trash. Find ways to reuse and repurpose things. If possible, walk or bike instead of driving. If you are looking to buy a car, find one that is fuel efficient and has a low emissions level.

Every step you take is one to help the planet but one person cannot make a difference in this case. We need to come together to save our planet for our future, and the future we hope to see.

The Office Ladies Podcast for The Office Fans I have never been one to listen to podcasts, but this one has me sold. As a huge fan of the comedy mocumentary The Office since I was nine years old, this Gabriella podcast Mastroianni is perfect.

Reporter The Office Ladies stars Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey, the actresses behind Pam Beasly and Angela Martin.

Although their characters in the show have a

conflicting relationship, they’re best friends in real life. And by coming together, they give insight on behind the scenes action, answer fans’ most dying questions, break down each episode and invite the actors/actresses, directors, writers and editors from the show.

The two discuss each episode in order every week on Tuesdays. Jenna starts off reading a summary of the episode in discussion, followed by fast facts about the show and deep dives, and allow The Office guests to

talk about their experience on the show.

Listeners can submit questions, observations, or anything they would like to say to Jenna and Angela through the Office Ladies website and the two will read what fans have to say on their show. Jenna and Angela also post screen grabs and various pictures on the site for fans to check out. The website also sells great merch such as an Office Ladies hoodie, games, mugs, Pam’s famous teapot, and much more.

This podcast brings

light to the brilliance of The Office with great detail and shows how much of a gem the show is. After listening, fans will gain a newfound appreciation for the show and the genius work that was put into it.

For all The Office fans out there check it out, it’s absolutely binge-worthy.

These two adorable and hilarious women will put a smile on your face for the rest of your day.

Listeners can listen to the podcast on Spotify, Earwolf, Apple Podcast or on the Office Ladies Website.

Letting go and learning to grow If someone decides to walk out of your life, let them. Why stop them if they do not want or care to be in it?

If they do not value the life you live and the parts Ronni Reyna you decidNews Editor ed to share with them, there is no use in holding on. Letting go is one of the hardest things you can do. It is painful and feels pointless, but it is important. You cannot

let someone who walked out control how you live, because it will take over you. Forgive and forget, but there is no forgetting, that would be idiotic, if you forget where you have been how will you know where to go?

I have watched several people walk out of my life, friends and significant others and that’s okay. I know that they had to go in order for me to grow. People who make you feel small only hinder you and leave you no room for self-discovery. They won’t always walk out

on their own, sometimes you have to be the one to let go.

If you know they are hurting you and don’t care to change, don’t care to acknowledge their mistakes or even apologize for the way they hurt you, you have to let them go.

It won’t be easy, but taking that step to leave them and letting them go is the only way to be happy. It will be painful, but you will know you made the right decision.

Hurting is okay, someone broke you, and it’s okay to feel broken for

a little while. It’s okay to listen to sad music and cry, it’s okay to remember the good times and be sad. When you’re done grieving you pick up the pieces and glue yourself back together.

Everyone deserves to have people in their life who care about them.

You may not always find them quickly, but when you find them you will know.

I’ve struggled to find the right people and I’ve learned to let go.

There is always room to grow, you just have to let go.

Easing into Fall decoration September marks the end of summer and the beginning of fall.

For me, it’s time to start putting away the summer Brenda decoraRiojas tions, and Emtertainment brining Editor in the fall decorations. The cooler weather is coming and so is Halloween and Thanksgiving Day, two fall-related holidays.

It’s easy to pack away all of the summer decorations and bring in the fall all at once, but it’s

even easier to slowly ease into fall.

To slowly ease into fall just divide up decorating into four weeks.

For instance, the first week you should start to remove summer flowers, couch pillows and centerpieces. You should start to review your fall decorations and scope out any new trending decorations you might want to display in your home.

The second week you should have already replaced the summer pillows for fall and add cozy linens to your bed.

In addition, start to light your favorite fall can-

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dles and prepare your fireplace. Half of your decorations should be ready to be displayed or already displayed.

The third week should involve more fall produce.

At this point, start to purchase real pumpkins and have three-fourths of your fall decorations displayed in your home.

Pumpkins start to make an appearance in the grocery store in early September, although you might purchase a pumpkin to decorate, you can always use the time to start practicing to make pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving Day coming up.

Start making homemade soup and set your dinner table with matching fall plates and napkins.

Finally, by the fourth week you should have all of your decorations set out if you haven’t already, put out the cozy throws and decorate your front door.

If you’re not completely done easing into fall, it’s okay. You still have time to add decorations or create your own. If you’re already done decorating by the fourth week of September, sit back with a pumpkin spice latte and enjoy the decorations you’ve put up.

Dylan Dozier Managing Editor managing.editor@thesouthtexan.com

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Ronni Reyna News Editor news.editor@thesouthtexan.com

Nicole Perez Morris Adviser nicole.morris@thesouthtexan.com

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September 22, 2020

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Employees of the Year announced Winners humbled by recognition Viola Valdez | Contributing Writer

The 2020-2021 Staff Council Employees of the Year were recently announced for Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

In the Executive/Administrative/Managerial Category the winner was Christina Rodriguez-Gonzalez.

Gonzalez is the director of Academic Success at the Center for Student From Meyer, Pg 1

him in the classroom, but I have had some discussions with him about his courses,” she said. “I have also seen the texts he uses as well. I know that he makes a conscious effort to introduce diversity and discussions about important issues of the day, like BLM, in his classes.”

Meyer’s constant effort and support of issues gives his students an insight of who he is and the passion he has not only to teach but to keep learning himself.

Success overseeing tutoring and peer mentoring programs.

“When I learned Christina that I was Rodriguez-Gonzalez nominatDirector ed, I was so honored that someone would go out of their way to nominate me,” Gonzalez said. “Then when it was announced that I was selected as TA-

MUK Employee of the Year award for the Executive category I was and still am elated. I like to reflect back to the past seven years I have been working with Center for Student Success in various roles and appreciate all the experiences (even the really challenging ones), the collaborations across departments and working with phenomenal staff, faculty, student-employees and students.”

In the Professional/ Non-Faculty Category the winner was Pamela K. Rauch. Rauch is the Coordinator in Student Services.

“We all have room to grow and be better,” he said.

As a teacher with passion, Meyer has hope for a future of equality.

“The idea that a different skin color is better or superior than another is disgusting to me. The Oglala Lakota have a saying, ‘Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ’, which means we are all related and refers to our interconnectedness to each other,” he said.

“To me, that means we need each other. We need each other to grow, to get better, to save each other, to protect each other, to

care for and love one another.”

Meyer’s support for the BLM movement gives students an opportunity to learn about the issues faced by the country today.

Though he remains politically ambiguous in his classroom, his voice for the movement shows his students that he is more than just an English professor, and someone who truly values his students not only inside the classroom but in the world.

“Knowledge IS power.

I have chosen to use that power to empower others,” he said.

Photo courtesy of TAMUK COVID-19 Dashboard.

Positivity (%) is the proportion of all positive test results from on-campus testing beginning July 30, 2020 and includes results from students, faculty and staff.

From COVID, Pg 1

it is not us. Instead, it is our students.”

Students are being mindful of wearing their masks and sanitizing their areas to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

“People are understanding what they need to do to stay safe and healthy…

To me, for us to be where we are right now in September is good, and we want to definitely continue all our safety measures to keep us all as a community healthy and safe,” Jo Elda Alaniz, director of student health and wellness, said.

TAMUK will continue to offer free COVID-19 testing for faculty, students and staff who are experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to

someone who has tested positive. Pre-registration is required at tamus.curative.com. Pre-registration opens every Monday at 9 a.m. for an appointment on Tuesday or Thursday.

“We plan to begin additional testing for COVID-19 in the coming weeks for those faculty, staff and student groups that routinely come into contact with others on a more frequent basis than the general university community,” TAMUK President Dr. Mark Hussey said.

“In addition, we have also begun planning for this year’s flu season. I am hopeful that many of the protocols that we have already put in place for COVID-19 (e.g. face-coverings, frequently washing hands, good personal

hygiene, self-monitoring, etc.) coupled with individuals getting a flu shot, will reduce the incidence of flu that we see in our community this year.”

TAMUK will continue to enforce safety guidelines to ensure everyone is as safe as possible during uncertain times.

“If we want to continue having the semester that we are having right now, everybody has to do their part in allowing that to happen. We need to continue doing the things that we are doing right now, being socially responsible and looking out for one another. Then we can continue down the path that we are going and hopefully finish the semester; that would be awesome,” Kirsten Compary, dean of students, said.

“Our campus is filled with hard-working and dedicated staff. It is an honor to be nominated for this award, and I am humbled to be selected as the recipient,” she said.

In the Secretary/ Clerical PamelaK.Rauch Category Coordinator, the winner Student Services was Rose A. Gomez.

Gomez is an Administrative Assistant IV in the College of Engineering.

“I would like to thank From Career Serices, Pg 1

during the summer, we collaborated with other Texas A&M University schools to host our inaugural Texas A&M University Virtual Career Fair on June 30, that resulted in our campus having the highest participation rate compared to our sister schools,” Career Coordinator Christina Gonzalez said.

Career Services is currently planning a Fall Virtual Career Fair on the CareerEco platform scheduled for Oct. 7.

Through this platform students will be able to submit their resume’ and chat with potential

the person that nominated me for this award.

This award means a great deal to me. I am very honored and humbled to receive such a prestigious award and recognition,” Gomez said.

“My passion has always been facilitating others in any manner possible, this is why I have chosen psychology as my discipline of choice. Receiving this award has made me realize that what I do truly makes a difference in people’s lives and my intent and goal is ensuring that that difference is a positive one. I will gladly accept the responsibility of continuing this

path for the further for myself and our TAMUK family. Thank you!”

Other 2020-2021 Employee of the Year nominees included Chris Vera, Cynthia Farias, D e b r a Beltran, Efrain Leija, Erin RoseA.Gomez McClure, Administrative K a t h y Assistant IV Pawelek, Oscar Villarreal, Phillip Compary, Rebeka Silvas, Renee Weiss, Rolando Garza, Sergio Ortiz, Shawn Speckman and Sylvia Gatewood.

employers. Career Services knows that many successful Javelinas have gotten their foot in the door through networking at career fairs.

They encourage students to participate in upcoming workshops and fairs.

The addition of Career Services to the Division of Institutional Advancement enforces relationships with alumni and current TAMUK students.

Students seeking Career Services should email careerservices@tamuk.edu The permanent location of Career Services will be finalized with the hiring of a new Career Services Director. An offer for a new Career Services Di-

rector is expected to be made in early October.

“We are really excited about the direction we are going with Career Services.

We believe that with the Alumni Services and Giving staff and the Career Services staff working together, the university will work better with employers – whether that be corporations, school districts or public agencies – to hire our students for their first professional job. This will help with internships, too. Also, this will help our alumni get more involved as mentors. We have thousands of amazing alumni doing great work all over the world, and we want them to inspire our students to do great things, too,” Walker said.