HEALING HANDS
Nursing program celebrates 50 years, awards scholarship
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Foghorn News DEL MAR COLLEGE
August 28, 2017 Foghorn News
@TheFoghornNews
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Volume 83, Issue 1 thefoghornnews
Step right up, name that Viking
Winner will receive $1K to use on campus services Jonathan Garcia jgarcia@foghornnews.com
Del Mar College’s Viking mascot needs help finding a brand new name, and the student who submits the most popular one will win a $1,000 Viking Card to be used on campus services. “We want this to be exciting, fun, just like when we revealed the mascot,” Student Government Association adviser Beverly Cage said. “We want that same high energy to come to the naming of the Viking.” Del Mar College debuted the new character mascot in the spring semester. Originally having a Scandinavian name with 15 consonants and no vowels, he turned to his new home for a new name. Since the reveal, the Viking has had a positive reception with students. “He was friendly and approachable, he
danced and the outfit looked nice,” student Ricardo Garza said. Garza said he would like to name the mascot Victor. “I would name him that because he’s victorious and people would think of him as a leader,” Garza said. Local resident and former Del Mar student George Viada also saw the Viking and gave him a name with a meaning. “He looks cool and I would name him Markie because he is on the mark for success,” Viada said. Those who participate can submit as many names as they wish. If two people submit the same name, the first participant will receive the nomination. Online submissions for names begin on Sept. 11, and anyone can submit a name. Submissions can be made at www.delmar.edu/ nametheviking. “We would like to include students, staff, faculty, alumni, Coastal Bend residents and get everybody involved in the naming contest,” Cage said. “Our goal is to announce the new name
?
(See VIKING on Page 3)
Michelle Mirelez/Foghorn News file
Del Mar College’s new mascot makes his debut in April. Originally having a Scandinavian name with 15 consonants and no vowels, he turned to his new home for a new name. The naming contest will run through this semester.
Eclipse wows at Del Mar
Guns come to DMC Natalie Murphy nmurphy@foghornnews.com
Jonathan Garcia/Foghorn News
Administrative assistant Jo Dee Garcia takes a moment to enjoy the view of the solar eclipse on Aug. 22 from East Campus. While Texas just received a partial eclipse, the state is set to be in the so-called “path of totality” when the next solar eclipse happens April 8, 2024.
Parking gets worse College officials urge
Students may want to add comfortable shoes to their back-toschool list this year, as construction has resulted in several lost parking spaces and a fence stretching around the heart of East Campus. Over the summer, the English Building was torn down to make way for the General Academic and Music Phase II building. The work resulted in more than 100 parking spaces being removed or blocked off in front of the Harvin Center and by the St. Clair Building.
(See GUNS on Page 3)
Counseling Center planning expansion West Campus office grows as department sees increase of 40%
students to arrive early, take bus for free Brittany Claramunt bclaramunt@foghornnews.com
Campus carry is now live at Del Mar College and all public two-year colleges around Texas. The administration is busy with the start of a new year; however, there is extra focus on both safety and compliance with the new law. Senate Bill 11, passed in 2015, went into effect at two-year colleges on Aug. 1. The school has been preparing for the changes since the law passed. Last year the school sought input and areas the public thought should remain gun free. A list of places that carrying a gun has been prohibited is available at www.delmar.edu. New signage has been placed around the campuses that will signify whether or not campus carry is permitted in that particular area. The school has also dedicated a portion of the school’s website to frequently asked questions about campus carry and information for members of the public to access. During a public forum last year, Del Mar President Mark Escamilla and various members of the administration came together to ensure students faculty and staff that safety would be of the utmost importance. They also reminded members of the college that Del Mar College has no say in implementation of the law. Lauren White, chief of security for Del Mar, was confident the imple-
Jonathan Garcia/Foghorn News
More than 100 parking spaces have been removed or fenced off for the construction project.
While the project will make get- south and north ends of the camting to class less convenient for pus in an efficient manner,” said some, the college plans to help by Rito Silva, vice president of Student offering golf cart Affairs. Read more about the rides to students Collegiate from the lots by construction on East and West Students who campuses on Page 3. the Venters and get dropped Garcia Science off between buildings. the St. Clair Building and White Li“Each stop was selected to min- brary will have to find a new area imize the on-foot trekking while (See PARKING on Page 3) also enabling the drivers to reach
in Health Science Building 1, Room 262, and is expected to be completed by the first day of the fall semester. “The purpose of all of our proAshlee Burns grams is prevention and to meet Calallen High School the needs of as many students as possible,” said Lead Counselor Rita After helping more than 4,000 Hernandez. students in the past year, the CounWhile continuing to provide inseling Center dividual and couhopes to do even While continuing to ples’ sessions, the more to address office provide individual counseling students’ growing will be providing needs this year. and couples’ sessions, group counseling The departstarting this year. ment has seen the counseling office Some of these a 40 percent inwill be fowill be providing groups crease in use by cused on certain students and will group counseling topics such as debe expanding pression and anxstarting this year. iety. the West Campus counseling office Participation into a full functioning Counseling (See COUNSELING on Page 3) Center. The center will be located
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August 28, 2017
Half a century of healing hands Nursing Department celebrates 50 years, receives $264K grant
Natalie Murphy @Foghorn_Murphy Editor-in-chief Mark Young @foghornmark Managing editor Brittany Claramunt @brittclaramunt Associate/Web editor Dominic Perez @domlive95 Sports/Entertainment editor Jonathan Garcia @jonathan10894 Social Media editor
Jonathan Garcia/Foghorn News
Instructors Sylvia Herrlich and Diana Elizondo pin Destiny Rubio at the Nurse Pinning Ceremony for summer graduates. ment,” said Shannon Ydoyaga, they’re well prepared,” Ydoyaga dean of health sciences and pro- said. “These assimilated environfessional educaments are truly tion. “This is what helps the nursing trainThe departing centers of the ment plans to use us help our students future.” the grant for new The event on achieve their technology such West Campus as mannequins also marked the dreams.” with program50 years since mable symptoms — Evangeline De Leon, the Nurse Eduas well as new Departchairwoman of the cation laboratories that ment was started focus on many Nursing Education in 1967 by Mrs. different scenariWillie Lauritz. Department Several former os in assimilated environments, and current Del Ydoyaga said. Mar nursing stu“When they go and meet with dents attended to celebrate the a patient and help treat them, milestone. The DMC Center for
DMC, Pepsi sign deal Mark Young myoung@foghornnews.com Students may notice a few changes in Campus Dining this semester, especially the new fountain drink machines. The machines, as well as the new decor, are part of a more than half-million-dollar deal Del Mar signed with Pepsi Cola Co. and Sunrise Vending. The deal runs through April 30, 2019. David Dávila, director of purchasing for DMC, said deal differs from previous ones by having more exclusivity. “We looked at all the offers we had and found that Pepsi would be the most beneficial for the campus,” Dávila said. The money from the deal will go toward a variety of areas at the college,
Dominic Perez dperez@foghornnews.com
With shorter lines and fewer system crashes this semester than in the past, registration, for most students, was relatively smooth. The shorter lines were attributed to the college’s efforts to get students to register early, through gift card giveaways, registration rallies and more. Lines were short, students were
Economic Development hosted a pinning ceremony where 27 registered nurses were pinned and recited the Florence Nightingale Pledge graduating for the summer. Since 1967, the department has successfully graduated more than 4,000 students through the nursing program. “It’s a team effort and it’s our faculty that contribute,” said Evangeline De Leon, a registered nurse and chairwoman of the Nursing Education Department. “This is what helps us help our students achieve their dreams.”
Mark Young myoung@foghornnews.com
Michelle Mirelez/Foghorn News
Kalynn Pena,18, dispenses a drink from the touch-screen Pepsi soda dispenser at Campus Dining on East Campus. including sponsorships, advertising and new machines. Leon Rodriguez, food services manager for Campus Dining, says he is looking forward to the deal. “I’m optimistic that the deal will be a good thing,” Rodriguez said. “We are going to get new machines and new signs, courtesy of Pepsi. They will also be helping out with student appreciation events planned in the upcoming semesters.” This deal will also bring things
other than Pepsi to DMC, including scholarships and advertising. Dávila said some of the money from the deal will go into scholarships for students and that Pepsi and Del Mar will help advertise for each other.
Blanca Canales, who was on the committee that discussed the deal, reiterated that the deal ”will be a good thing for everyone, and will have lots of benefits for students and Del Mar.” While Coke lovers may find it harder to quench their thirst, nursing major Julianne Olivo, who loves Pepsi, said she was excited. “I love it! If you are going to get scholarships or new materials out of it, then of course it’ll be a good thing,” Olivo said. ”In fact, now that you say that I’m going to go get a Pepsi right now.” @foghornmark
directed promptly to their designated advisers and photos for ID’s were all done in the Harvin Center, making the entire procedure convenient. The financial aid line was where students had their patience tested but even at that most students were content that this was the only place they had to wait. “It’ been a quick and easy process. I just got here and now I’m just waiting in the financial aid line finishing the last part of registration. this is my second semester and it’s been a much faster process then last semester, a lot less hectic. I had gotten a bunch of mail all summer reminding me of deadlines and enrollment
dates and it’s really helped me out a lot,” said nursing major Joshua Lopez. Patricia Benavides Dominguez, dean of outreach and enrollment, said that as of 1 p.m. Aug. 23, 11,760 students had signed up for classes this fall. Dominguez said her department recently increased notifications by reaching out to students via email and phone to make sure they were aware of important cutoff dates. That helped keep lines from being long on the final days of registration.
@domlive95
Regent Guy Watts is once again at the center of controversy, having received a third censure at the Aug. 8 board meeting and a possible fourth on the way. A censure is the highest form of discontent that the Board of Regents can give to one of its members. However, a censure has no real consequences and is more of a public slap on the wrist to show the public that the board does not approve of what one of their members is doing. The board has issued three censures since April 2016, with investigations preceding each. However, in fall 2014 the board publicly repudiated statements made by Watts in a letter to the editor for the Island Moon in which Watts claimed that the college was “swamped” by “unprepared” and “remedial” students. Watts attempted to prove his accusations by correlating financial aid grants, illegal immigration and the increased Hispanic population statewide. Trey McCampbell, chairman of the board, expressed his frustration with Watts. “A regent has to follow the bylaws, and he isn’t,” McCampbell said. McCampbell said each censure following the first has been the result of more information regarding Watts that has appeared. The most recent censure stated that a third investigation by Augustin Rivera, the general counsel for the board, had found 36 pieces of evidence pointing to Watts violating six bylaws. When asked about his censure, Watts said: “Stay out of it. Completely ignore it.” A fourth investigation has been authorized by the board and a resolution for censure is expected to be reviewed and voted on in a future meeting.
Around Campus NAACP and LULAC help sponser events From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 9 on Del Mar’s West Campus the Ninth Annual Citywide Health Fair will be held in conjunction with Dia de la Familia to help anyone wanting to learn what Del Mar has to offer. People in attendance will be able to see the vast career and educational opportunities at Del Mar as well as meet the Del Mar Viking. There will be many hands-on options as well including a welding lab, a truck-driving track, and tour
emergency first responder training sites. This event is free and open to the public. The Corpus Christi Chapter of the NAACP and LULAC Council No. 1 teamed up to sponsor the events.
Intramurals ready for high numbers this fall Del Mar College intramurals will be holding a kickoff party for the fall semester on Sept. 7. Anyone looking to interact with other students with interests in sporting ac-
tivities should attend. The gym will be open for recreation on Sept. 11 and the first event is volleyball on Sept. 19. Intramurals Director Kristy Urbick looks to build on the number of students who have been coming to participate in past intramurals to create a culture that prides itself on competitive but fun events.
Famous author comes back to Corpus Christi Author and Del Mar College alumna Stephanie Elizondo Griest
Mia Estrada @miamiaestrada Features editor Josselyn Obregon @JTO_News Spanish editor Adriana King @kingisaqueen Copy desk chief Staff: Katie Babbitt Ashlee Burns Emily Jasso Patrick Luce Michelle Mirelez Matthew Tamez
@jonathan10894
Watts censured again
Registration lines quick
Wait times shorter than in years past, many students say
www.foghornnews.com
Volume 83, Issue 1
Jonathan Garcia jgarcia@foghornnews.com Del Mar College’s Nurse Education Department recently had not one, but three reasons to celebrate. The program on Aug. 17 unveiled a new scholarship as well as a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission, and celebrated its 50 anniversary. The DMC Foundation unveiled the Retired Lt. Col. Maria del Carmen Solis Nursing Scholarship worth $6,000. Solis, who served during World War II and the Korean conflict and was the first American military nurse assigned to Madrid, Spain, donated this scholarship, with Janet Macias being the first recipient. Macias is a registered nursing major level 2 student who plans to graduate in summer 2018, and this scholarship helps take the financial weight off her shoulders. “This will help with everything, it finishes paying off the rest of the tuition,” Macias said, “We have to buy scrubs throughout the semesters, NCLEX books, extra study material and it helps with everything. ... It’s an amazing feeling. The college also was awarded a generous grant that will benefit the Nursing Education Department in the future. “The college received $264,402 from the Texas Workforce Commission’s Jobs and Education for Texans Grant Program to expand our Nurse Education Depart-
Foghorn News
will present her new book “All the Agents and Saints: Dispatches from the U.S. Borderlands” at Del Mar East Campus. The Mexican-American Studies Program sponsored the gathering, which will take place on 11 a.m., Sept. 11 in Room 514 in the White Library. Griest, who was born and raised in Corpus Christi, focused on the troubles and impacts of people along the Mexican and Canadian borders in the United States. Copies of the book will be sold at the event and signed by Griest.
Robert Muilenburg Adviser Scott Beckett Lab adviser The Foghorn News is a forum for student news, events and opinions produced by Del Mar College students for students. For Information: 361-698-1390 (office) 361-698-1939 (adviser) 361-698-1246 (advertising) LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the editor must be no more than 150 words in length, must be signed, and are subject to editing for grammar and content. Send emails to letters@foghornnews.com Send letters to the Foghorn News office: Harvin Student Center, Room 215, 101 Baldwin Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX 78404 CORRECTIONS Need to report an error? Call 361-698-1390 or email news@foghornnews.com.
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CAMPUS
August 28, 2017
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Construction ongoing at East, West campuses English Building torn down; Heritage Hall will be next
worked hard to get to this point and get this building that is needed for East Campus, but bad because the building is one of the oldest buildings and a piece of Del Mar’s history,” Mark Young Alfonso said. Claudia Jackson, executive direcmyoung@foghornnews.com tor of strategic communication and Students who took the summer government relations, said the imoff will notice there is one less build- provements will benefit students. ing on East Campus. “The college has taken a great Five decades after it was built, the step forward in providing cutEnglish Building was torn down in ting-edge instructional facilities in preparation for the new General Ac- its planning for the $46 million Genademic and Music Phase II building. eral Academic and Music Phase II The project was funded by a building on the East Campus,” Jack$157 million bond passed by vot- son said. ers in 2014 and is “At the heart VIDEO of the new comestimated to cost oghorn ews .com plex will be the around $46 million. The building, Mike Anzaldua Log on to see video of the a project of Richter Plaza, named for English Building being torn Architects and BRW the late English down over the summer. Architects, is exprofessor emerpected to be completed by August itus, with shaded outdoor spaces 2019. for individuals and small groups The 127,500-square-foot project to enjoy. Inside the new facilities will house the Division of Arts and more informal collaborative space Sciences and the Departments of will allow students to work in small English and Philosophy; Commu- groups and connect with faculty nications, Languages and Reading; one-on-one,” Jackson said. Mathematics; and Social Sciences. Aside from the new building, The building will also complete the improvements will be made to nunew facilities for the Music Depart- merous buildings across both East ment started in Phase I. and West campuses. At East CamAugust Alfonso, DMC’s chief in- pus, work includes major repairs for formation officer, said that the prog- some buildings, repurposing the ress is bittersweet. Administration Building to serve “It’s good because we have as a student enrollment center and
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(COUNSELING from Page 1) is not required in these groups and students are encouraged to attend, even if only to listen, Hernandez said. “These will be five to 10 participant groups in a therapeutic-based session led by a counselor,” Hernandez said. “Not only does this let you know you are not alone, but you are surrounded by like-minded people who understand.” The department will also continue its previous programs, such as “Be Well,” “Let’s Talk” and “Kick Back,” and will again bring therapy dogs to the East and West campuses Oct. 9-10 as a stress-relieving opportunity for students and faculty. “We’ll be bringing the dogs back with our partner Paws-Up Inc., (VIKING from Page 1) before the end of the fall semester 2017,” Cage said. The deadline for nominees will be at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 30, when a committee consisting of DMC campus community, alumni and general committee members narrow down the top 16 names. Once the finalist have been chosen, the first round of voting will be open to students only on Oct. 9. Each round of voting will be conducted via the Foghorn News. The college will reveal the name during an event later this semester. The winning contestant will be awarded a $1,000 Viking Card to use on Campus Dining, fine arts event, books, tuition and other campus services. The mascot will make appearances at local schools and Del Mar College events.
NAME THE VIKING SEPT. 11: Name submissions begin at www.delmar.edu/ nametheviking SEPT. 30: Deadline for name submissions OCT. 9: Top 16 bracket voting begins in Foghorn News OCT. 23: Top 8 bracket voting begins in Foghorn News NOV. 6: Top 4 bracket voting begins in Foghorn News NOV. 13: Last day to vote for one of the top four names
(GUNS from Page 1) mentation would go smoothly. Escamilla and White also directly addressed members of the staff and their concerns over campus carry at a private forum last spring. White said questioning people on whether they are licensed to carry is prohibited under the law. This bill does not allow for the open carry of guns on Texas campuses. Any firearms must be concealed; open carry is prohibited and will be prosecuted. Gov. Greg Abbott stated in an interview with the Texas Tribune in November 2016 that he felt campus carry could have stopped the Ohio State shooting. Abbott has always been a strong proponent of gun rights and argued heavily for the passing of SB 11. Students can find more information about campus carry at www. foghornnews.com or www.delmar. edu. In the event a student sees a firearm they are encouraged to contact the office of security at 698-9111.
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which is a volunteer organization with trained and licensed therapy dogs,” Hernandez said. “Everyone loves when the dogs come.” Although many of its programs are focused around the mental health of students, the center encourages students to care for their bodies as well. The center’s annual “Spooktacular” Health Fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 26 in Harvin Center, Room 233, in which community agencies will provide students with health information and resources. Walgreens will be providing students with free immunizations. For more information contact the Counseling Center at 361-6981586 or stop by the Harvin Center, Room 233.
Jonathan Garcia/Foghorn News
Crews tear down the English Building on East Campus over the summer. The project was funded by a $157 million bond passed by voters in 2014. adding new accommodations to existing buildings. The West Campus will see new expansions for
buildings and programs along with improvements to facilities. Once construction on the new
building is finished, Heritage Hall will be the next building to be torn down.
(PARKING from Page 1)
Foghorn News file
Students pet a therapy dog to destress during a recent Counseling Center event.
to get dropped off. Traffic will be redirected to behind the Physical Facilities Building so students can be dropped off along the Aquatic Center and on the side of the St. Clair Building. Officials are advising students to arrive early for class. “Give yourself plenty of time and be patient when finding parking and taking the golf cart or walking to your class,” said Lauren White, chief of security. If you think it may be too much of a hassle to finding parking at a reasonable time, you can always take the Corpus Christi RTA, which is free for those who show their student ID. “If students want to ride the bus to Del Mar all they need is to download the Viking Go app and in the features it will show the different maps and routes the buses take to get to Del Mar,” Silva said. The project is expected to be complete by August 2019.
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August 28, 2017
Kids build, race robots at engineering camp
Ashlee Burns Calallen High School
After spending seven weeks preparing, Shiyeon Kim, along with 64 other young geniuses, was finally ready to race robots. Del Mar College’s Corpus Christi Prefreshman Engineering Program summer camp provided sixth- through ninth-graders with the opportunity to get a head start in science and mathematics, with curriculum emphasizing work in computer science and engineering. “It’s very hands on, which is great,” said Shiyeon, a 10th grade Ray High School student. The camp was free to participants thanks to donations by Flint Hills Resources, which presented a $51,000 robot-shaped check to the program on July 18 at the West Campus Emergency Training Building. “By the time we get to the end of the program the students are so excited and we’re really happy with the projects,” program Director James Shollenberger said. “Flint Hills provided an influx of technology, and the program is as great as ever.” After the unveiling of the check, students demonstrated their custom robot projects through races, and performed strength tests for bridges made of straws. The rigorous program presents an educational challenge for its participants, many of whom return as mentors to younger participants.
Ashlee Burns/ Calallen High School
Students in Del Mar College's Corpus Christi Prefreshman Engineering Program summer camp prepare to race the robots they built. The camp was free to participants thanks to donations by Flint Hills Resources. “It’s such an incredible thrill to not just see them grow as people and students, but to come back and give back to the program by
mentoring,” Shollenberger said. Participants learn from architects and engineers that hard work and dedication are import-
ant aspects to building something, said Julian Gardean, an eighth-grade student at Branch Academy.
“It’s been a lot more fun spending our summer learning than staying home playing video games,” Julian said.
Local youths create their own video games Ashlee Burns Calallen High School After completing the start/stop sequences of her very own Lego character, student Amryss Rodriguez knew she was one step closer to creating her own video game. While many of her peers are spending their summer playing video games, Amryss, along with several other local youths, are learning to make their own games at Del Mar College’s technology camp. The second annual six-week camp offers local elementary and middle schoolers the opportunity to work with high-tech programs that will allow them to build, create and design their own computer programs, apps and animations. “This is new to me,” Amryss said. “I never got to build Legos on the computer or do anything really, except for in the computer lab at school.” Weeklong sessions provided in this year’s camp were Code Breakers, Lego Games, Making 3-D Video Games, Minecraft Modders, Minecraft Animators and Star Wars Stop Animation. Tuition for each oneweek session is $130. This year, $14,000 in scholarships from the Coastal Bend Community Foundation went toward helping low-income students attend this camp, which is sponsored by Black Rocket Creator Corps. The camp saw a sharp increase from the 60 students enrolled last year. “The goal was to increase enrollment,” program director Leilani Crown said. “We wanted to do more outreach, and make sure low-income students without the opportunity could come. The scholarships helped 108 students to attend the
camp.” More than 200 students took part in the camp this year, with every class filled to capacity. CCISD instructors Cinda Alvarado and Jason Escamilla teach the students to design Lego video games in which they design their character using Lego Digital Designer and export the character into a game-maker program to create a custom game. “The students have good enthusiasm to focus on technology,” Escamilla said. “I love to teach, the kids are very engaged. By the end of the week they have their own game that they can play with friends.” When the games are finished students are given an opportunity to submit their projects for awards that can earn them scholarships, according to Alvarado. “These classes are definitely designed for particular audiences,” Alvarado said. “These students are tech-oriented and quick-learners, even though a lot of the curriculum is new to them.” Student Rachael Mingus, 10, is no newcomer to these camps, and spends her summers attending other classes at DMC. Rachael also attended the technology camp last year. “It’s a lot of fun because I like technology,” Rachael said. “I have fun in my classes. In the game we are making, we are a character and there are bad guys we have to beat in four levels.” Students next year can look out for a new addition to the camp curriculum, Crown said. “We’ll have some new classes,” Crown said. “Next year I want to incorporate robotics, so maybe we can have what we have now and a week of robotics.”
Photos by Mia Estrada/Foghorn News
While walking on the Padre Island National Seashore, Antonio Rodriguez (left), Brandon Sauceda, Chloe Espinoza and Gabriela Thompson stop to observe a sea turtle nest by the Malaquite Visitor Center.
Biology class hits the beach for an experience to remember
National Seashore welcomes students to study organisms
Mia Estrada mestrada@foghornnews.com
Walking along the Padre Island National Seashore, biology student Amanda McCowen and classmates went searching for living organisms unique to the longest barrier stretch of shoreline in the world. “I love the beach, it’s pretty clean out here,” McCowen said. ”I would recommend the National Seashore; it’s a different experience, a different world out here and a whole lot to learn, too.” Professor Lillian Bass and students drove to the National Seashore for a biology field trip, studying the evolution of organisms. While students were walking on the island, they were able to witness ghost crabs, coquina clams, sargassum and other organisms. However, they hardly saw shells. William Botts, education coordinator for the Padre Island National Seashore, explained the reducement of shells on the island to students. “One of the things most people never stop to think about is that the number of shells you’re going to find on the beach simply is a reflection of how healthy the population of the gastropods are,” Botts said. “People don’t stop to think about the fact that living organisms live in shells.” Shells are the exoskeleton of organisms such as snails, clams and oysters and should be put back in the water after observing, Botts said. Taking shells home can kill the organisms inside. The National Seashore is known as the nesting site of sea turtles, holding more Kemp’s ridley sea turtles than anywhere in the United
William Botts talks to students about the length of the National Seashore's barrier, the longest in the world, at about 113 miles. States and making them accessible to the public. Patrick Gamman, chief of interpretation at the National Seashore, explained the decline of the Kemp’s ridley sea turtles in Mexico and the United States. Kemp’s ridleys have become the most endangered of all sea turtles. A decline in the turtles resulted from the overharvesting of eggs, adult turtles being caught in shrimp nets and plastic in the water and beach, Gamman said. “All these things combined ... they almost went (extinct). They were close and so that’s why we’re doing all this work to bring them back,” Gamman said. About 220 Kemp's ridley nests were found the the Seashore in 2017, with 353 being reported across the state, according to the National Seashore. In a discussion with students, Botts mentioned the entrance fees to the park might rise. The fees might make the seashore less accessible to students and visitors. “A few years ago Congress started to see that parks had not raised
their fees in a long time. ... There is a proposal, we were directed by secretary of the Department of Interior to explore with local communities about raising our fees…,” Gamman said. From 6-8 p.m. Sept. 13, the Padre Island National Seashore will hold an open house to discuss the proposed increases and entrance fees with the public. The current fee to enter the National Seashore is $10 and a season pass is $20. The last entrance fee increase was in 2000. As students walked back to head home, they looked back at the ocean with new knowledge of the seashore. Alexander Klaven, a biology student, had a strong first experience at the National Seashore and plans to return. “I haven’t been to this beach ... the experience was good, definitely really hot,” Klaven said. “I was actually learning stuff that was interesting.” @miamiaestrada
ENTERTAINMENT
August 28, 2017
5
Reviews
New show based on old game
Contributed photo/Summit Entertainment
Michael Bryce (Ryan Reynolds) and Darius Kincaid (Samuel L. Jackson) both survive an ambush in “The Hitman’s Bodyguard,” the latest action-comedy directed by Patrick Hughes.
‘Bodyguard’ caps off the summer
chael Bryce (Reynolds) falls from grace after one of clients was assassinated, resulting in Bryce losing his status and business. When the International Court of Justice has a hard time finding Jonathan Garcia physical evidence to prosecute jgarcia@foghornnews.com the dictator of Belarus, Vladislav Dukhovich (Gary Oldman), their Ryan Reynolds and Samuel last hope is to get hitman DarL. Jackson headline the latest ius Kincaid (Jackson) to testify action-comedy from director against him. When Dukhovich’s Patrick Hughes, “The Hitman’s men attempt to assassinate KinBodyguard.” Originally intended caid, Bryce gets a chance to gain to be a drama back in 2011, the back his former glory by bringfilm underwent ing Kincaid VIDEO to The Hague drastic rewrites to be more of oghorn ews .com safely to testify a comedy. Jeff while dealing Log on to see video review Wadlow had of “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” with ambushes been set to diand bickering online. rect but backed with Kincaid. out in March Reynolds and 2016. Hughes signed on to di- Jackson are the major highrect the film shortly after, and lights of this film as their banthe result is a solid way to end tering alone is worth the price the summer movie season. of admission. Audiences can Triple-A rated bodyguard Mi- tell that they were having a
Chemistry between two main actors help action film shine
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blast making the film and their chemistry on screen is perfect. Oldman even manages to be an effective villain, nailing his Russian accent he learned from the “Call of Duty” video game series. Hughes, who directed the PG-13 watered down “The Expendables 3,” has taken the criticism from that film and applied it to this one with the action sequences. It is filmed and edited miles better as you can tell what is going on in each scene and flows well, making this a huge improvement for Hughes. The film’s plot isn’t really anything special as it’s just a tool to set up bickering between Reynolds and Jackson, which for this film it works. There are times where it tries to be serious in certain scenes, making it feel like it’s tacked on to make the film go a bit longer. But fortunately, it doesn’t detract from the fun time audiences will have.
Reynolds and Jackson work great together and are a blast to watch on screen, making “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” worth checking out in theaters. And it is also a huge step up for Hughes, as he managed to direct a fun action flick, and it’s only up from here for him as a director. @jonathan10894
Cast: A Script: BCinematography: B+ Soundtrack: B+
Overall: B+
Matthew Tamez mtamez@foghornnews.com Based on the 1989 video game “Casltevania 3: Dracula’s Curse,”“Castlevania” is a Netflix series that premiered on July 7. The series, written by Warren Ellis and directed by Sam Deats, stars the voice talents of Richard Armitage, James Callis, and Graham McTavish. In the 15th century, a human woman seeks out Vlad Dracula Tepes to gain scientific and medical knowledge to help mankind. Dracula, having long since withdrawn into seclusion, humors her and allows the use of his castle. After spending years with her, he falls in love with her and sees her as the only redeeming quality that humanity has to offer. He takes her as his wife, Lisa Tepes. However, when she is accused of witchcraft and burned alive at the stake, Dracula, in a fit of rage, declares war on humanity. Beginning his rampage in the country that killed her, he unleashes a demon hoard on Wallachia. With hope dwindling it is up to Trevor Belmont, the last of the disgraced demon hunter clan; Sylpha Belnades, a magician; and Alucard, a mysterious figure, to end his rampage. “Castlevania” at its core is an entertaining and well animated adaption of the video game on which it is based. The pacing of the storyline is well done and the combat scenes are fun to watch. The show is intended for a mature audience as the fight scenes contain violent dismemberments and deaths at the hands of both the demons and the main cast. The characters are well developed, with a history that is only hinted at during the first season, allowing for exploration in the already announced second season. While the animation, pacing, and acting are well done, the only criticism to the series is the length of the episodes and the subsequent length of the season as a whole. With only four half-hour episodes, it was a shame that the first season couldn’t spend more time with these interesting characters.
PERSPECTIVE
6
August 28, 2017
Editorial
They can say what they want With hate groups becoming more bold and holding more public demonstrations, the question that so many national news outlets have published op-eds about is whether hate speech is free speech, and the answer is yes, it is. The demonstrations in Charlottesville, Virginia, in which a protester was killed, have begun national debates about free speech and its role in hate speech. While the idea that banning hate speech sounds like it would make the world a better and nicer place, the logistics are murky and objective. People have different ideas about what hate speech is. No doubt, Obama and Trump would have differing opinions on what hate speech is. Nonetheless, when you begin to police people’s ideas and opinions, totalitarianism and dictatorships begin to rise. Journalists who criticize Russian leader Vladimir Putin often end up dead, and in North Korea, the media is completely controlled by the government. While Trump isn’t at that level, he constantly attacks the media as “fake news” and has even launched his own news network. The demonstrations in Virginia will not be the last. A white nationalist rally was planned for Texas A&M University-College Station next month, and while the campus shut it down, they will likely try to have another one. College campuses are the starting point for many quality people in America to start. College is also a place for people to learn more about the world and themselves. By restricting people from holding demonstrations, they don’t learn the truth about the state of things in America. These demonstrations may become violent and gain national attention for the wrong reasons, but they nonetheless let students gain valuable experience.
King Features Syndicate Inc.
We aren’t saying these demonstrations should not be allowed to happen. While we do not condone racism or hate, we entirely condone a person’s right to free speech. As the press it is not our job to decide whether an event should happen or not, we simply exist as the medium in which to convey the knowledge of the event and what took place. It is not the press’ job to
tell people how to feel about something, but instead to display the facts in an unbiased manner and let the people decide. More events like these will happen, and that’s OK. If you don’t want these events to become well known and receive mass media coverage or gain more publicity then don’t attend the event. Stay home or focus on a cause that you
While we do not condone racism or hate, we entirely condone a person’s right to free speech.
believe matters. The more attention hate groups receive means they will receive more legitimacy and grow strong. So just ignore them.
Letters to the Editor
Letters to the editor must be no more than 150 words in length, must be signed, and are subject to editing for grammar and content. Send emails to letters@foghornnews.com
Opinion
The reality of the people in America Do you think fringe groups should be allowed to demonstrate? “Depends on the group. Nazis make me uncomfortable, but they do have a right to do it but people would be afraid.” — Christy Sanchez, business administration
“I understand freedom of speech, but if there is violence involved it goes out the window and the police can intervene. If they did it here, I would be upset.” — Enrique Rios, studio arts
“I feel they have the right to speak their opinion, but I would feel uncomfortable when they are there.” — Addison Messerly, education “They shouldn’t be able to mess with our stuff and rules, and they don’t have the right to do so.” — Gabriel Ortega, business management “It would not be a good thing because college is public. If they’re being disruptive then they shouldn’t be allowed.” — Clarisa Trevino, human development
“I would be against hate groups. They may speak their minds but they promote violence and have bad intentions.” — Miguel Esparza, computer science
“I wouldn’t like it and wouldn’t go to school here if they did. They should do it on their own time and not on school grounds because it provokes people.” — John Cardona, instrumentation
Katie Babbitt kbabbitt@ foghornnews.com
America has been discussing the negative effects of what white supremacists have done to innocent bystanders. While murder is a tragic, painful event for any human to ever experience, so is the existence of humans. When the word “human” comes to mind this writer thinks of a thought from Mark Twain: Humans are the only evil creatures. For instance, when a tiger kills another animal it does not do it to be evil, rather, merely for survival. However, mankind has this idea of what is “right” and “wrong,” which puts them in a perplexing position. For examples we can look to history of civilization as a whole. The Salem Witch Trials, World War II, The Red Scare and unending battles with racism echo in the background. Those are not even the only instances where humanity can be seen for every flaw. All of these were filled with humans who had an idea of how to make things better for themselves and/or others. Another old saying, “Those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it,” screams like the passionate protesters. No matter how hard humanity has fought, that never-ending cycle always starts up again, some way, somehow. Humans have one prejudice or another against each other for every aspect of how they live. Unfortunately, because of this sometimes life feels pointless when you can already see what is going to happen next. Humans do something someone doesn’t like and others step up to them for it. Other humans agree, other humans disagree. Fighting inevitably breaks out in any direction as each man and woman and child. Some are more prepared,
some do not get the privilege. Whoever talks to loudest and gets the most attention is right and listened to. Those who are quieter do not get the same privilege. In fact, the few that are seen as right and good people are almost never seen unless fear or guilt are in their words. Some of them are loud enough but ignored or disposed of for not agreeing or conforming as well. The idea of being part of a collective is important to humanity, sort of like an unending paradox: to be loved but wanted more than anyone else. Some humans stand idly by, wondering what the point is of it all, doing nothing in response. These are ones that could tip the scale but instead choose ambivalence as a companion. Some humans lead the people or follow in what is “the right way to be” but even heaven’s antithesis is paved with good intentions. An argument to these words could be that every life is sacred, which isn’t wrong. All of humanity and everything it touches plays into the grand scheme of things whether or not we all see it. The only reason humans find compromise and “learn their lesson” is because desires are filled or fear strikes their hearts. This writer feels for what happened to those innocent protesters in Virginia and is appalled by the response of President Donald Trump. Unfortunately, this writer is also not perturbed in the slightest. Sadly, this voice in just another in a sea of those crying out to be seen as special and life changing. If one voice were the answer then these problems would have been gone a long time ago. A never-ending cycle, a self fulfilling prophecy at its finest. Humanity will always continue this cycle of right/wrong and good/evil until the day it dies out completely or wakes up. @BishopinBlue
GAMES
August 28, 2017
7
1. GAMES: In Monopoly, what color is the property St. James Place? 2. TELEVISION: What was the name of the news director on “WKRP in Cincinnati”? 3. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which U.S. president was the target of the first assassination attempt? 4. ANIMAL KINGDOM: In the cat family, what are vibrissae? 5. MEASUREMENTS: How many grams are in a pound? 6. U.S. STATES: What state lies directly to the north of Kansas? 7. MEDICAL: What is happening if you experience borborygmi? 8. FIRSTS: When were the first license plates required for cars? 9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What does an onomastician study?
Answers 1. Orange 2. Les Nessman 3. Andrew Jackson, 1835. The gun misfired. 4. Whiskers
n It was pioneering Mexican-American musician Carlos Santana who made the following sage observation: “The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace.” n Those who study such things say that men who tend to be womanizers when they’re single are more likely to be jealous husbands once they’re married. n The beginning of a new school
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) This week could offer more opportunities for ambitious Lambs eager to get ahead. But don’t rush into making decisions until you’ve checked for possible hidden problems. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Some light begins to shine on professional and/ or personal situations that have long eluded explanation. Best advice: Don’t rush things. All will be made clear in time. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Although you might want to protest what seems to be an unfair situation, it’s best to keep your tongue and temper in check for now. The full story hasn’t yet come out. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Work prospects are back on track. But watch what you say. A thoughtless comment to the wrong person -- even if it’s said in jest -could delay or even derail your progress. LEO (July 23 to August 22) A colleague might try to goad you into saying or doing the wrong thing. It’s best to ignore the troublemaker, even if he or she riles your royal self. Your supporters stand with you. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Be careful not to let your on-the-job zealousness create resentment with co-workers who might feel you shut them out. Prove them wrong by including them in your project. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Although it’s not quite what you hoped
year seems a good time to note the origin of that lunchtime favorite, peanut butter. A Canadian named Marcellus Gilmore Edson patented the product in 1884, but it didn’t become popular in the United States until 1898. That was when John Harvey Kellogg’s Western Health Reform Institute began selling it at expensive health care institutions. It seems that protein-packed peanut butter was perfect for elderly patients who had trouble chewing. n Rats tend to be right-handed, too. Or, rather, “right-pawed.” n Standing desks, stand ready: There’s a new trend in workspaces. It seems that standing up while working isn’t enough to counteract the detrimental health effects of sitting in an office chair all day. Enter Fluid-
for, use your good business sense to make the most of what you’re being offered at this time. Things will improve down the line. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A more positive picture of what lies ahead is beginning to take shape. But there are still too many gaps that need to be filled in before you make definitive plans. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Continue to keep a tight hold on the reins so that you don’t charge willy-nilly into a situation that might appear attractive on the surface but lack substance. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) You still need to demand those answers to your questions. Remember, your wise counseling earns you respect, but it’s your search for truth that gives you wisdom. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You’ll find that people are happy to help you deal with some difficult situations. And, of course, knowing you, you’ll be happy to return those favors anytime. Won’t you? PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Give that special someone in your personal life a large, loving dollop of reassurance. That will go a long way toward restoring the well-being of your ailing relationship. BORN THIS WEEK: You are a delightful paradox. You like things neat and tidy. But you’re also a wonderful host who can throw a really great party. — King Features Syndicate
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stance, a company that wants to help you surf your way through the workday. Their balance boards, designed to be used with standing desks, reportedly increase heart rate and improve range of motion, allowing users to burn calories while burning their way through the mundane tasks of office life. n Driving isn’t the only activity that is dangerous to mix with alcohol. Statistics show that 40 percent of skiers who get injured in the French Alps are legally drunk. n Thought for the Day: “Many people consider the things government does for them to be social progress but they regard the things government does for others as socialism.” — Earl Warren — King Features Syndicate
5. 454 6. Nebraska 7. Your stomach is growling. 8. 1901, New York state 9. Names
8
CAMPUS
August 28, 2017
Summer graduates walk the stage
More than 200 enter next phase of their lives Adriana King aking@foghornnews.com
Cheers resonated and cameras flashed as more than 200 graduates crossed the stage to receive over 500 certificates and degrees on Aug. 17 at Richardson Performance Hall. “Each one of you graduates tonight is a winner,” said Del Mar College President Mark Escamilla, who kicked off the ceremony. “If you have the will to learn, Del Mar College will help you achieve,” said Escamilla, who then took time to express his pride in the graduates and took the time to have students stand and be cheered for if they had graduated while working, raising kids, if they were over 40, in the military or if they were the first to graduate in their families. “I’m proud. I’m 40 years old with 3 kids and I’m the first to graduate out of 10,” said Dulce Gomez, who graduated with an associate degree in liberal arts. The ceremony was held in Photos by Adriana King/Foghorn News the newly redone Richardson Performance Hall, and for many, Graduate Colton Gaither takes a picture with his family. He graduated with a degree in applied science processing tech and will start a new it stood for a transition into a job soon in Midland. new, better life. “My son is 39. He left UTSA worked hard even through pregnan- receive a degree in applied science and got into the workforce and never cy and employment to get where she processing tech, Colton Gaither alcame back (to school),” David Rodri- is now. ready has change in front of him. guez said about his graduation son, “I was in labor with her during fi“I’m going to work Monday, in MidMarco. “He’s got 2 girls and a wife, nals,” Collins said, motioning to her land,” Gaither said. “I was working in and we got him to go back to school. infant daughter, Selena. “I was actu- the oilfield and got laid off, but this It’ll open up a whole new world for ally writing my final speech. … I have is something similar. All my family are him. I’m very proud.” two kids and worked a job, but it’s plant operators. I just want to thank The keynote speaker for the night going to get me farther and show my my family for the support.” was chief of the Corpus Christi Fire girls not to give up.” When graduates moved their tasDepartment, Robert Rocha, whose Rocha read the Robert Frost poem sels and their families around them speech emphasized moving forward, “The Road Less Traveled” and referred erupted in applause, a page was being your best self and being resil- to Socrates including his test of turned and a new chapter opened for ient in the face of adversity and dif- threes, and the work of John Maxwell. them. ficulty. Rocha emphasized that graduates “I envy you,” Rocha said to grad“You will find that reaching your must have positive attitudes about uates. “After tonight, you start the destination by being unconventional themselves, and that they should greatest adventure of a lifetime. I will help you experience what others never give up when facing failure. hope my message to you encourages haven’t experienced,” Rocha said. “I “You will fail more than you suc- you to move forward.” hope your experience at Del Mar has ceed,” Rocha said. “In failing, you’ll made you a better person.” learn more. In failure, you succeed.” A large cutout of Lisette Reyes’ face was brought to @kingisaqueen Kate Collins, who graduated with After being laid off from a job in the support her during graduation on Aug. 17. an associate degree in social work, oilfield, and working for two years to