Vol. 108 Issue No. 3 - 10/23/19

Vol 108 | Issue 3 | Oct. 23, 2019 | San Antonio, Texas

ENTERTAINMENT

A Haunted Tour of San Antonio St. Mary’s students take a tour of the haunted spots around downtown

GERARDO NIÑO-POZOS STAFF WRITER

As Halloween approaches, various events around San Antonio are available to celebrate the holiday, including a haunted history tour of San Antonio. A common dilemma among

students is deciding which autumn events to partake in during their brief weekends. For anyone intrigued by the ghostly, Curious Twins Paranormal is offering ghost tours of historic areas in San Antonio the company has classified as haunted.

A total of four tours are available: Spirits,

Murderers & Prostitutes of San Antonio, Spirits of the Alamo & El Rio de San Antonio, Haunted King William Walking Tour, and the Cemetery Tour. Each location has its own historical backstory; the tours shed light on the history that may have led to its alleged haunting.

“I think they did an incredibly good job telling the story whether it be the history or maybe the scientific side of what they did,” said Oscar Ortega, junior history major. “I just enjoyed myself very much.”

CONTINUED ON PG. 13

OPINION

LIFESTYLE

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

PG.4

PG.11

PG.13

PG.14

“Joker” does not incite violence

How to dress for festival season

Haunted house offers scares for students

Rattler Madness excites student body

2 NEWS

EDITOR: SAMANTHA RUVALCABA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | OCT 23. 2019

SNAP | FEATURED PHOTO

THE RATTLER WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS MEETINGS

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Send us your photos to be featured in the Rattler. Email them to rattlernews@gmail. com

Former members of the Rattler staff reunite for the Rattler’s 100th anniversary reunion held in the University Center on Oct. 5, 2019.| Photo Victoria Valle

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STANDARDS The Rattler upholds the Mission Statements of St. Mary’s University. The publication follows the Canons of Responsible Journalism, the Associated Press Stylebook and the Student Publication Policy. The Rattler is a member of the Associate Collegiate Press, the College Media Association and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association.

POLICY ON NEWSPAPER THEFT Due to high production costs, members of the St. Mary’s University community are permitted one copy per issue. Where available, additional copies may be purchased (for 50 cents each) by contacting The Rattler newsroom. Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and/or subject to university discipline.

EDITORIAL STATEMENT The content published in the Rattler is the responsibility of each respective writer. The views expressed in the staff editorial reflect the views of the majority of the editorial staff.

MISSIONS Grounded partially in the Marianist values of family and community, we maintain an open forum for discussion. We strive to produce quality content that informs, not inflames; encourages, not discourages.

We must be sensitive, not sensationalistic; reasonable, not ridiculous; balanced, not bitter.

Supreme Court debates Title VII protections SAMANTHA RUVALCABA NEWS EDITOR

The U.S. Supreme Court was presented with two cases on Oct. 8 pertaining to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964— the law making it illegal for employers to discriminate their employees because of their sex—resulting in a pertinent discussion on whether sexual orientation and transgender status ought to be included in the law.

One of the cases heard came from Gerald Lynn Bostock, who filed a lawsuit against Clayton County, Georgia following his termination of his position of child welfare services coordinator. This termination came after Bostock joined a gay softball team, which led him to believe this as the reason behind his firing.

Bills requesting to add “sexual orientation” to the list of protection under Title VII have been declined to pass by Congress for decades, leaving the mere prohibition of job discrimination “because of a person’s sex” open to interpretation and cause for debate as cases relating to sex stereotyping, discrimination based on sexual orientation, transgender or transitioning status continue to be presented.

“

I don’t want to think about [the possibility of being denied a job], but because of this I have to.”

Isabela Baker senior psychology major

“Because Title VII does not define the term ‘sex,’ the term should ‘be interpreted as taking [its] ordinary, contemporary, common meaning’,” stated the Trump administration in a written brief.

Dual degree public history student Glory Turnbull is the oyster bake chair of Safe Space, St. Mary’s only on-campus LGBTQ+

organization that aims to spread positivity and promote acceptance by providing a safe space for students.

Although Turnbull believes the LGBTQ+ community should be fully protected under Title VII, Turnbull is not surprised by the contrary arguments brought forth by conservative justices.

“I understand that [the Supreme Court] is primarily conservative at the moment, so even though you can follow certain trains of logic that ‘oh yes we should be protected by the law’ not everyone sees it that way,” Turnbull said.

Federal, state, and local government employers are subject to Title VII. 48% of the LGBTQ+ population live in the 21 states and two territories that have state laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in addition to Title VII. Texas is one of the 26 states that has no explicit laws prohibiting job discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender status. Employers have the option of providing their own additional policies of protection for their employees. However, the climate of being unsure whether one’s own employer will accept and respect the sex, sexual orientation, and gender status remains.

“I don’t want to think about [the possibility of being denied a job], but because of this I have to,” said Isabela Baker senior psychology major. “Before, I wouldn’t get a job because I’m not qualified. This is just leaving it up to an employer’s ideas or implicit biases, they’ll be protected, and I won’t be.”

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission enforces Title VII’s prohibition of sex discrimination and interprets it to include the prohibition discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation. However, the commission provides its protection in being able to

investigate, litigate, and resolve claims of job discrimination under the federal Title VII and the EEOC’s additional interpretation.

The EEOC may also be recognizable to potential employees as they are prompted to sign the EEO-1 survey included in the application process. This survey gives them the opportunity to self-identify their race/ ethnicity and gender. This survey also serves to tell the employee that they will not be discriminated against in their candidacy based on the protections of Title VII. “Not looking at [a person’s sexual orientation or gender status] and not considering is good for the hiring process in not letting it determine decision-making, but it doesn’t really help if you’re not being explicitly accepting,” Baker said.

Despite the reoccurring debate throughout decades over this issue, proLGBTQ+ protesters gathered outside of the Supreme Court support of Bostock and the other cases contesting the coverage of Title VII. Baker, who is community service chair of Safe Space, explained the conflict the organization is facing when deciding whether they should increase their social activism on and off campus.

“It’s not the marginalized [people’s] job to educate the public or to fight for their own rights, it’s the job of the people with the privilege to protect those that are marginalized,” Baker said. “But because we are the only organization on campus that is LGBTQ-related—do we want to stay a safe space, or do we want to try to work more towards advocating?”

The Supreme Court has yet to come to a ruling on whether Title VII prohibits job discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender status under “sex.” If the ruling does go in favor of Bostock’s case, the federal law will add additional protection to LGBTQ+ members nationwide.

NEWS 3

OCT 23. 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

POLICE BLOTTER SEPT./OCT. 2019 SEPT. 21 Off campus public intoxication reported at west Woodlawn/Duke area.

Case is active.

SEPT. 25 Burglary of non-habitation reported in St. Louis Hall.

Case is closed.

SEPT. 26 Possession drug paraphernalia reported in Perigueux Hall.

Case is active.

SEPT. 29 Misdemeanor theft reported at Sigma Beta Chi soccer field.

Case is active.

OCT. 3 Sexual assault reported in Treadaway Hall.

Case is active.

OCT. 3 Misdemeanor theft reported in Dougherty Hall.

Case is active.

OCT. 10 Domestic violence assault reported in a residence hall.

Case is active.

Campus raises domestic violence awareness ELIZABETH PEREZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and throughout the month, Rattlers Against Sexual Violence is hosting various events to raise awareness about domestic violence, honor survivors and support victims, and educate students on how to help prevent domestic violence. Domestic violence is an all too common problem affecting many people regardless of gender, ethnicity, social class, etc. St. Mary’s students and faculty alike are making an effort to raise awareness for victims of domestic violence.

Courtney Barrie, project coordinator for RASV, is organizing many of the events on campus.

“It is most important to raise awareness because gender-based violence is an underreported crime all over the United States, but on campus too,” said Barrie. “We are hoping to raise awareness so that students who are experiencing something similar or know someone who is experiencing something similar can feel comfortable reaching out for support from the offices that are available to give that [support].”

Brandi Loving, undergraduate victim advocate and peer educator with RASV, offered advice to students who know a friend experiencing domestic abuse.

“We deal a lot with bystander intervention,” Loving said. “Whether it’s a concerning comment, or you witness something yourself… So many things are normalized, and someone may not even realize they are being abused.”

The events hosted on campus during early October included various tabling events in the University Center and the event—Blanketed by Blame, Freed by Compassion—done in partnership with the Women’s Affairs Council and the AWAAZ Foundation. AWAAZ—meaning “voice” in Hindi and Urdu—is a nonprofit

Students participate in the Blanketed by Blame, Freed by Compassion event. | Photo by Courtney Barrie

organization working to help victims of domestic violence by promoting healthy relationships and diminishing cycles of violence through support. The organization focuses on empowering South Asian families by being the voice for those affected by domestic violence through education and advocacy. During the event, the AWAAZ Foundation presented a demonstration about how actions towards victims of abuse affect them.

The next event of the month will be Take Back the Night presented by the RASV on Oct. 24 in Alkek Plaza from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Take Back the Night is a worldwide movement to stand against domestic and sexual violence and will feature a performance by Ebony Stewart, an award-winning touring poet and performance artist.

For this event, RASV is inviting survivors and victims of domestic and sexual violence to share their stories. Those who wish to contribute may email cbarrie@stmarytx. edu with their statements read anonymously

by Oct. 23, or they may volunteer to share

their own statements on stage at the event.

All contributors are free to share either anonymously or publicly at their own level of comfort.

RASV along with various other offices on campus such as the Student Counseling Center, offer support year-round for students experiencing domestic violence.

Victim advocates in the RASV office are considered confidential, so students can feel secure knowing that they can get the help and support they need. Barrie’s message to students who are victims of domestic violence is a strong reminder of the loving support St. Mary’s staff offers for students in need. “[Domestic violence victims] don’t have to do it alone,” Barrie said. “People here love them and will support them. What is happening to them is not their fault.”

If anyone is a victim of domestic violence, contact Rattlers Against Sexual Violence.

Students are also encouraged to attend the events on campus throughout October to help raise awareness.

Drama department to debut “Crimes of the Heart” play GERARDO NIÑO-POZOS STAFF WRITER

“Crimes of the Heart” is the newest production awaiting debut by the St. Mary’s drama department. The play “Crimes of the Heart” is an original dark comedy screenplay

by Beth Henley, premiered in 1979. In 1981, “Crimes of the Heart” received critical acclaim by earning a Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The play has been reproduced in different mediums such as a novel and film adaptation. The story is set in Hazlehurst, Mississippi 1974 and revolves around three sisters: Meg, Babe, and Lenny who live during a time of economic and social unrest.

“Each [sister] is dealing with their own romance that they have had with a gentleman and how they’ve gotten through the ups and downs of the romances and how they come together and support each other despite the bad times,” said Bernadette HamiltonBrady, associate professor and chair of the drama department.

The sisters Meg, Babe, and Lenny face their own unique situation within their relationships as they come to terms with the crimes of the heart they have committed. A few minor characters, Barnette, Doc, and Chick also exist serving as support and anguish for the sisters. However, the story

is mainly focused on the lives of Meg, Babe, it’s somewhat reflective of what happened in and Lenny.

1974,” said Hamilton-Brady. “With the sense “You get the sense of these three women of trying to overcome obstacles, overcome trying to cope under the circumstances unpleasant kinds of situations and how you and using humor, commenting on the can triumph over them.” absurdities of life of how things just happen Since the play is a not a St. Mary’s original to interact with each other,” said Hamilton- production, the script needs to be followed Brady. “That’s one of the reasons why I chose word for word. To do otherwise the play was because of that ability to would violate copyright issues. laugh at ourselves and to laugh This did not detract from at situations, to help the experiences behind the us get through it.” scenes as the cast found Humor is ways to express themselves heavily featured through the script. in the play as the “First you read the script forces within and they’re just lines, they’re the sisters’ just words and then once you relationships start reading it, it’s up to the are not the only actor to give it life,” Graphic by Samantha Ruvalcaba forces they need to said Jorge Martinez, contend with. Set sophomore math in 1974, it was a time of political mistrust major. “Cause if you’re monotonous following the resignation of President Nixon throughout the entire show then you’re not after the Watergate scandal; a scandal that acting, you’re just saying lines and that’s not left the public distrustful of its government. a show.”

Only a year earlier, the 1973 oil crisis shook Martinez plays Barnette Lloyd and found the U.S. economy leaving Americans to pick his character to be similar in many ways and themselves up in its wake. Although these stepping into those shoes for him was of no events do not feature in the play; the effects issue. With six years of acting experience are seen in the attitudes of the sisters. behind him, Martinez found “Crimes of “Where we’re at right now in the world, the Heart” to be among his favorites. Every

character big and small found their roles fitting in their own way.

“I really enjoyed it even though I was playing a character that was just mean and the polar opposite of me, it was a lot of fun searching into that darker side of myself,” said Natalia Flores, senior international global studies major.

“

Where we’re at right now in the world, it’s somewhat reflective of what happened in 1974.”

Bernadette Hamilton-Brady associate professor and chair of the drama department

Flores is set to play Chick Boyle and describes Chick as a superficial instigator who has no trouble calling things the way she sees them.

The doors are set to open Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m. The play will run through Oct. 26, 27 and 31 and Nov. 1-2. Tickets are priced $15 for adults, $12 for faculty, staff and military and discounted to $10 for students. “Crimes of the Heart” will be located in the recital hall in Treadaway Hall.

The Dean’s List for Spring 2019 Published: Fall 2019

UNDERGRADUATE LIST Greehey School of Business Tanuja Singh, D.B.A., Dean HIGHEST HONORS Mauricio Albo Jocelyn Alvarez Bibian Bianca Anchondo John Barr Timothy Payne Benavides Kaitlyn A. Bloch Daniela Cardona Steven Cardone Ethan M. Carlson Matias Castro Delfino Ryann I. Cervantes Guadalupe Delgado Daniela Maria Duran Mikayla A. Durham Pierre Elbayeh Jakob Espinoza Alejandro Manuel Farias Jose Rodrigo Fernandez Pedro Angel Fuentes Emily Ann Gallegos Danika Petryce Garza Callan Joseph Gawlik Alexander Randall Gee Liam M. Gillooly Maria Regina Gonzalez Richard Kyle Green

Diana Gutierrez Villasenor

Ezra Hurd Shelina Markose Clarissa Garcia Martinez Gerry Jeremiah Medlin Camila S. Mencia Lauren Alia Mlouhi Maria B. Navarro Carlos L. Ordonez Emily C. Pierson Ruben G. Ramon Taylor E. Rech Madeleine L. Reeves Diana Rocha Ramos Enrrique Santa Cruz Enrique Segovia Lance C. Siler Kimberly Simmons Miguel Terrazas Ramirez Leah Tovar Andrew J. Townsend Alex Valdez Mark Joseph Vaporean Natalie K. Varnell Christopher M. Vasquez Paige Marie Weiss

HIGH HONORS Fernando A. Amans Olivia Ryan Bachelet Alan Barr Allison J. Beatty Barbara A. Campos Catherine M. Cano Marco Casanova Juliana Castula Cerda Monica L. Chavarria Vanessa N. Chavez Alejandra Colorado Tristen E. Cortinas Laura Dicun Harry T. Falkiewicz Jessica Pauline Flores Sarah Anne Foguth Katarina Grace Garza Johaira Gonzalez Rani Joy Goodland Bianca M. Hernandez Marisa Sanchez Ibarra Rylie Jean Kieny Bryce Emory Laursen Rudy J.a. Martinez Cameron A. Martinez

Ava Danielle Martinez Reagan Edward Meuret Richard Joseph Morales Raymond Nash Munoz Eric Ortega Rodriguez Kirsten Kay Payne Natalie J. Pena Valeria C. Perez Morgan Playle Darion D. Ramirez Kaitlyne R. Roberson Joshua Robinson Kimberly Ann Rodriguez Jose A. Rodriguez William E. Rybicki Josue Sanchez-Sanchez Zyania Sofia Seijas Lori E. Sims Mauricio Soto Ilina L. Spasova Jacob Aaron Toranzo Cordero Jett Torres Gerardo Villarreal Kylie Rose VonHolle

HONORS Juan Aguilar Arlayah Re-len Alderete Cristianna Araujo Jessica Judith Avila Cristal R. Avila Luisa Barbagelatta Grau John Paul Bogran Joshua C. Breard Samantha N. Callahan Isabel F. Cantu Nadia Dezena Carrasco Alfonso Charles Katelyn D. Corley Mateo Andres Cuenca Maximiliano De Leon Evan Mccray Elmendorf Silvia E. Flores Caden Ray Floyd Lauren Rae Franco

Luis Godoy Avila Miranda Lee Gonzales Jeremiah J. Gonzalez Miana Maria Gonzalez Gabrielle Elyse Gonzalez Jose R. Guerrero Jonier Gutierrez Oswaldo Hernandez Lauryn N. Hyde Salah Bassam Ismail Rinnu Joy Dalton Pierce Kajs Avery Bay Looney Iliana R. Mallett Karen Manzanares Tapia Sabrina Celeste Martinez Olivia Adelina Massaro Martin Steve Medrano

Dashia Lorenza Miles Anthony Thomas Millan Cody Caleb Miller Bruno L. Montesdeoca Adan Alejandro Morales Daniela Haydee Morales Eric M. Mudgett Hannah Odom Magda Olivas Carmona Pedro Fabian Padron Ashley Marie Penshorn Vicente X. Quintero Angelica R. Rabago Miranda N. Ramos Ashley A. Resendez

Patricia M. Reynolds Pedro Rivera Shelby Renee Rivera Katherine M. Rodriguez Isaac Shay Rodriguez Samuel E. Santos Chicago Joe Schuller Ryan M. Smith Teodoro Alexis Soto Matthew J. Swartz Karla Elizabeth Tobias Cristopher F. Valdez Tina Valdez Lesli Vidal Cordelia de la Garza Evia

College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Leona Pallansch, Ph.D., Interim Dean HIGHEST HONORS Greyson Lee Addicott Jazlynn N. Ajel Savannah A. Alcazar Gabriela Aquino Aguilar Maranda Nicole Avina Marie N. Baumgartner Dominique Bernal Sarah Racquel Bernal Sequoia N. Callahan Javier Camacho Lauren Rene Casillas Vanessa Marie Castanon Susana Lizet Cisneros Saul Contreras Martin Sierra M. Coronado Michael Andrew Cruz Christopher D. Dancy Jason A. Delgado-Perez Mia D. Diaz Phoebe Dickinson-Land Dominique Dominguez Angelica Espinoza Daisy Garcia Eva Fernanda Garcia Alejandra Garcia Castro Ana Paula Gonzalez Samantha M. Guajardo Elizabeth A. Guardiola Benjamin Case Harper Mikaela R. Hartmann Yamel Claryssa Herrera Christopher L. Hohman Zonia Teresa Huerta Andrew Jazbani Emily Teresa Jensen Nicole Brooke Johnson Holly C. Knowles Carla M. Leal-Willett Erin M. Longford Diego Lopez Enrique Valentin Lozano

Jacqueline Lucero Janice Ribaya Madayag Erick Paul Martinez Amara Maritza Martinez Lesley M. Martinez Adrianna E. Mirabal Alison Morales-Aguilar Richard Moreno Christopher Mullenax Any Ojeda Alamilla Rocio Orozco Renee Nicole Padilla Abigail Kurtis Page Celeste Perez Gonzalez Joshua Avtar Perry Marcus S. Plataniotis Paul Henry Pruski Nydia G. Ramirez Bailey Noel Rider William J. Rittenhouse Etiem Rivera Gonzales Judith Del Carmen Rock Ysenia Adria Rodriguez Janice Rodriguez Jocelyn J. Rodriguez Abigail Rose Sachnik Samantha B. Salazar Andrea Salinas Ana Paula Saravia Samantha Geree Schulte Franchizca Scipio-Brown Angeles Ivonne Silva Tyler R. Sleeter Mishell Toledo Angel Torres Teresa M. Valdez Victoria M. Valle Ian Marshall Warner Leah A. Whitaker Robert J. Whitworth Matthew Caleb Wyatt

HIGH HONORS Miranda K. Alamilla Victoria K. Aldridge Celeste C. Apsey Krista Leann Baca Omar Zachariah Baki Caroline Clarene Barnes Ivan L. Briones Lucas-Keian Butler Abigale Louise Carney Joshua Arlin Collins Edelia Corona Rheanna Jean Crabbe Catherine Joyce Cruz Micaela Stefani Cruz Mario Alberto De Leon Frida L. De Paolo

Eric Delgado Sarah Daniela Diaz Christopher F. Dunn Rebeca Escobar John N. Estrada Sabrina I. Evans Zaraly Bejarano Grace Catherine Frey Kacey Y. Fujino Sara Yael Funes Jacob A. Gomez Kassandra R. Guillen Ariel Celeste Hernandez Sydnee S. Hodge Brandon Ichavez

Jeremiah Tyler Jensen Lindsey M. Kaufman Charles C. Keller Cherice Ilana Leach Kelly Elizabeth Leary Allison Lee Magera Brittany Nicole Mares Jessica Marquez-Munoz Roland R. Martinez Cassandra Leigh Mccann Luis A. Morales Diana Munoz Miranda Hoyt Narvaez Corey Andrew Nobilo Natalie Padilla Melissa Gicelle Padilla Kayla Nicole Patton Angela Perez Breanna Nicole Perry Brittany Alexis Peters

Colin John Platz Arysia J. Porter Wilzave Quiles Guzman Jamira G. Richardson Citlalli Rivera Kimberly I. Rodriguez Victoria M. Rodriguez Socorro C. Salazar Victoria Anais Salazar Jessika Bibiana Saldana Monserrat Silva Urbina Eaton J. Simpliciano Danielle S. Slaughter Hanadi Sonouper Jacob D. Stevenson Alice Louise Thane Aimee A. Trevino Angel Gabriel Velarde Erin Victoria Vento Thiffany Lilian Yeupell

HONORS Karime Marie Abboud Nathan Sebrant Alba Devon L. Alexander

Abdulrahman Almaghlooth

Fatimah Alotaibi Eva Noelle Alpar Samar Saaban Alshehri Jaiden C. Alvarado Chelsea Ariana Alvarez Basil Hayyaph Amri Jacobo E. Anaya Yvette A. Anaya Marissa Lynn Antu Andrew Arizola Claudia J. Vargas Luis Fernando Arroyos Irene Astran Jonathan B. Balderas Seana Maria Barclay Frances Marie Bendele Haley Nicole Bradfute Zoe A. Brigman Brandon Brown Joseph Aurelio Cantu Indira C. Cardenas Sebastian Carnero Summer Rae Casarez Marina Salety Castro Mariah E. Cavanaugh Destiny M. Cervantes Nayeli P. Cervantes Brandi Cheung Robert Colorado Dylan Edward Coons Aleea M. Costilla Nichole Beich Crawley Abigail G. Csengery Kathleen Kate Cuevas Karina Olivia Davis Ezequiel De La Fuente Lianka V. De La Parra Regina De la Parra Rory De Los Santos Julia Reda Deais Analina P. Devora Tyler Dewayne Dick Alexis M. Dillon Maria Dolores Esquivel Zachary Rene Fernandez Celeste Flores Brianna Renee Ford Thomas Daniel Fraire Sierra Nichole Fuentes Joseph Richard Furman Emily A. Garcia Elisa Juanita Garza Melissa A. Getz Meghan E. Godinez Eric Jordan Grant Matthew Gutierrez

Geoffrey Gutierrez Alicia August Guzman Silvia Duran Hance Sydney P. Hardeman MacKenzie Harless Elizabeth M. Hernandez Rebekah A. Hubacek Rachel M. Huron Staci Nicole Johns Katherine R. Knodell Jacob August Koehler Cameron Ann Koerner Jordan C. Kupczynski Maximiliano S. Lerma Daveedth A. Macias Daniel Malacara Angelique H. Maldonado Marcelino A. Martinez Kimberly A. Martinez Kenedy Jade Martinez Angelica Martinez Giselle A. McAndrew Pablo D. Medina Alejandra Mendez Paige Nicole Meyer Marissa Renee Meza Jesus Miranda Jonathan T. Mitchener Euris Yael Morales Ashleigh Ann Morales Diego Xavier Moreno Kimberly Ann Moreno Fatima Navarro Timothy Brian O’Dekirk Laura Lee Olivarez Luisa Arumi Ortiz Edward Vincent Padilla Andres Palacios Yesenia A. Palomo Maria Guadalupe Partida Jazmin R. Pizana Alana M. Pohovich Laura Sofia Ponce Daniel Angel Reyes Gisela Reyes Cynthia Rodriguez Sabrina Rodriguez Ivan Rodriguez Alexandra N. Rodriguez Oceane Maeva Roux Thalia Blanca Ruiz Kimberly A. Salazar Victoria E. Saldana Jennifer Saldana Jimenez Sophia Salinas Aracelli Sanchez Mariana Sandoval Irene Rene Sandoval Aaron Jesse Sandoval

Gabriela Verenis Serrato Christian Paul Stevens Thomas Galaviz Suarez Jose Tapia Villasenor Joshua M. Tinajero Freddie Joxdan Torres Victoria Valtierra Tashina R. VanderWoude

Carlos R. Vazquez Alexandra B. Vazquez Erika Vega Shalini Venkat Sadie Marie Villarreal Kaitlin Brianne Walla Riley J. Wincheski John Douglas Wittenberg

School of Science, Engineering, and Technology Winston Erevelles, Ph.D., Dean HIGHEST HONORS Mujeeb Asabi Adelekan Jessie Jennelle Alfaro Preston Carl Allen Maggie Amador Alexis Lorraine Amaya Ashkan Aminian Adrian R. Ballesteros Savannah E. Berger Ruayda Bouls Benjamin J. Boyle Amilynn N. Campa Arturo Canchola Alexander K. Cantrell Brianna Luisa Carrillo Ankita Chabra Alyssa Martha Cortez Chloe Ann Crichton Adrianna Christi Cruz Andres Jerell Cuellar Anuar Daccarett Perdomo Jada Marie Dauphine Eduardo Davalos Eliana De La Fuente Hoang Hai Dinh Giovanni Etienne Doria Ana Elise Dornbusch Shafqat Fahmid Ehsan Roberto Enriquez Vargas David Abraham Feagins Roberto Fernandez Amanda Figueroa Brandon Xavier Franco Bryan E. Galeas Tori Nichole Gardner Danielle R. Garza Edward R. Garza Reagan Wilson Gately Claudio Gomez Ascencio Brianna Alexis Guillen Rebeca M. Gurrola Victoria Gutierrez Jesus Gutierrez Carmela N. Hartness Alexander D. Horwath Octaviano Z. Huron

Evelin Saji Joseph Pragyan K C Lauren Victoria Keller Breanne B. Ludovice Luke David Lussier Alexander Manibusan Meredith G. Marcum Oscar Jaime S. Martinez Brandon L. McClellan Rachel Love McDonald Ethan McDonald Alexandra L. Mclennan Kenya V. Medina Aleacia Maude Messiah Naomi M. Narro Raynelle Lynette Nash Janson Nguyen Brayan A. Olmos Nixon R. Pastor Guzman Samantha Perez Juan Luis Pinedo Katherine M. Ramos Alicia Reyes Shannon M. Riechers Mackenzie Rion Ritch Jaremy Rodriguez Jolynn Rodriguez Elijah M. Romero Carlos A. Rosales Moran Cherubina Rubannelsonkumar

Tara Nicole Sellers Scott Wayne Siler Andrea T. Smith Adriana Smith Jose Manuel Tanori Sainz Gabriel Esai Torres Ignacio Torres Arpi Pous Khoa D. Tran Jesus Valencia Thomas Sam Varghese Natalie E. Villarreal Amanda Villarreal Evelin Villegas James C. Weatherhead

HIGH HONORS Mia Angelica Aguilar Shirish Amatya Komron Aminian Jocelyn Baca Emily M. Bartlett Walerie Bertrand-Flores Maryam Borhamah Jose Luis Figueroa Madelyn Elizabeth Hall Tanya Helbig Rebecca Hernandez Cody Ray Hurley Vinh Kiem Huynh Jabnel J. Ibarra Michaela Leigh Jeanis Kourtney S. Kottmann Kristyna A. Lopez Juan Luna Glaser

Vanessa Montalvo Jack Nunnington Jacob Israel Pesina Basil Qasem Salvador R. Gomez Nicolas Alberto Romero Alexis Salazar Antonio Iram Samano Colin Patterson Strong Joe Anthony R. Suarez Xavier N.Tijerina Josephine Y. Tran Kimberly H. Tse Samman Tyata Angelina Reina Varela Antonio Daniel Vasquez Emily Ann Velazquez Ruby Elizabeth Wynn

HONORS Adam Al-Rafati John M. Allen Talal Almaghthawi Clarissa Alvarez Faris Adrian Andonie Nina M. Arteaga Martin Eduardo Avila Bianca T. Benavidez Isabelle B. Bergman Emma E. Bodisch Rosa Deanna Brambila Pamela E. Callahan Belia G. Camarena Brisa Karely Cardenas Timothy M. Carrum Steven Castillo Joshua D. Castro Riley Quinn Elder Jade Gisele Evenstad Sheynna Lilian Felix Sarah Michelle Flores James Flynn Daniela Frausto Alice M. Gallegos Geyner Andres Gaona Alejandra A. Garcia Valeria Garcia Gutierrez Paul L. Garrett Yazmin Garza Karina Mercedes Garza Matej Gaspert Jake Andrew Gleinser Sienna Guerra Louis Anthony Gutierrez Cristina Izellah Gutierrez Valeria Hernandez Ivan G. Hernandez Bryanna Noelle Herrera Janae Hughes Felix Jaime Sydney E. Jara-Barrio Michael Francis Leary Carolina Berenice Lopez Chloe Martinez Thomas A. Medrano Lavenderjit K. Mehat

Diana Moreno-Gutierrez Hilda Esther Munoz Angelina Rose Negron Maria Isabela Onofre Otito N. Onwuzurike Ana Isabelle Ordonez Adrian Ornelas Dhvani Jaimin Patel Alain Patrick Peralt Ashley Christine Perez Andrew David Perez Ana Laura Pineda Reyes Ratna Hamsini Ramaraju Jeremy Ramirez Daniel Rene Ramirez Monica Ramon Natalie Michelle Rankin Gabriel Reyes Dakota Walker Rodgers Gabriela Rubannelsonkumar

Vanessa L. Ruiz Robles Enrique C. Saavedra Eileen Salas Enrique Salinas Simon W. Sanchez Gabriela G. Sandoval Gabriela Santos Bolanos Emmanuel Alcaraz Nida Siddiqui Matthew P. Swaykus Ramiro R. Torres Eduardo Arpi Pous Joel Eberto Trejo Amelia I. Tristan Sarana L. Tse Adam Kyle Valadez Miguel Angel Valdes Zoe Eva Vanover Derek Villalobos Vivian Thai Vu Nicole E. Webb Joshua T. Webb Allison Taylor Woods Ashley Yates-Contreras Marcelo A. Zamora

GRADUATE LIST Greehey School of Business Ahmed Alamoudi Jeremy Scott Barnes Priya S. Bhakta Matthew Scott Cabral Carlos Gabriel Carranza William Curtis Vilimira Delcheva Prieto Priscilla A. Dethmann Sandy E. Favela Meghan E. Geraci

Krystle Dawn Herzog Sean Michael Hughes Morgan Nicole Leach Patrick Talley Marsh Alexander Parker Wesley Ward Purcell Angelica Z. Smith Catalina Valdes Moreno

Nicole M. Acosta Alaa Jamal Alkhanany Suzanna Lydia Anthony Katie Cassandra Barber Veronica Gail Bou Onk Jeffery S. Brooks Fabian Castro Stephanie Cowan Julia Ellis-Fowler Yadira P. Flores Kendra Foisie Rice Regina Garcia Jimenez Natalia Garcia-Moreno Rebecca L. Gerstner Kinzee Jo Goehring Georgina Bremner Gosen Joseph Gottsch Jarmila Gupta Natasha R. Haight Madison M. Karasek Carolyn Leigh King Angelia D. Kiplinger Kimberly Vaio Knopf Forest Leraine Lebaron Maria Martinez Santos

Paola Misteli David Perry Morton Amanda Nicole Mouton Anil George Palakkal Yu Gyoung Park Samantha Jo Pearson Jason Phillips Ashley Giselle Pineda Angelica Robledo Marisa Elena Salazar Kristal Danielle Salinas Shannon Diane Sevier Kathryn Shaw-Meadow LaRae Annette Sleeter Scott Michael Sleeter Mario A. Sosa Alyssa C. Taramona Crystal Thomas Samantha S. Trabucco Nicanor Valdez Marianna B. Vargas Nina Renee Wolf Darien Joseph Wolliston Mariangela Zaval Handal

Melissa Waterfield-Copeland

Collge of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

School of Science, Engineering and Technology Alex S. Artola Badr M. Basager

Mohammed Refah Basarwan

Marwan Nauman Gerardo Salgado

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6 OPINION

EDITOR: VICTORIA SALDANA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | OCT. 23, 2019

Whistleblower situation and impeachment inquiry slows crucial legislation Robert

Moncada STAFF WRITER

Remember when Congress focused on passing meaningful legislation that would benefit the country? It seems as if the Democrat majority House of Representatives has forgotten that. Bills upon bills sit on Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s desk while the majority seeks to drum up some major evidence to impeach President Donald Trump. Many crucial bills that benefit this country’s interests are being put on the back burner, while taxpayer dollars are wasted on subpoenas and investigations that have gotten the House nowhere. To put this argument into perspective, the United States government between May 17, 2017 and Sept. 30, 2018 spent $12,287,852 on producing the Mueller report as reported

by Time magazine.

While Speaker Pelosi and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer focus on impeachment, important bills, like the Debbie Smith Reauthorization Act, have not been brought to the House floor for a vote. The act authorizes grant money to states to help clear the backlog of collected but untested rape kits. In a bipartisan effort, the act passed unanimously in the Senate; however it expired on Sept. 30.

Which left a backlog of untested rape kits to gather dust and victims to never receive justice. This act is just one of the many bills that will sit on the speaker’s

desk and not be brought to the floor for is estimated to add $68.2 billion to the a vote.

U.S. economy and spur 176,000 jobs as Some students on campus believe this reported by Fox Business. issue would be polarized and political no The House majority knows if they matter who is in office. were to vote on impeachment inquiry, “Republicans would be rushing they would be voting on record, for impeachment if it were possibly jeopardizing President Obama their positions if or President their impeachment C l i n t o n ” plans turn south. said Willie At this point, Gonzales, bip ar t i s ans h ip j u n i o r among the political Democrats science a n d major.

R e pu b l i c a n s “If the is rare to House nonexistent. w a n t s “Instead to move of working forward with both sides t h e y of the aisle to should vote on pass bipartisan impeachment legislation, to inquiry.” lower drug costs, If the Democrats to try to address the in the House continue Graphic by Victoria Saldana concern about mass to play politics with shootings… that is not legislation, trade agreements like the the route they have chosen,” Sen. John United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Cornyn remarked on the Senate floor. hang in limbo due to no ratification from “Democrats’ decision to move forward the House of Representatives. With the with impeachment and toward removing original signing taking place on Nov. 30, the president from office will make 2018, Mexico became the first country solving these big challenges facing our to ratify the agreement on June 19, 2019. country nearly impossible.”

The USMCA would replace the North Senator Cornyn sits on the Senate American Free Trade Agreement and Intelligence Committee, the committee

responsible for investigating such matters as the Ukraine whistleblower. If the Democrats really sought to replace the president, the easiest and most obvious route to take is to vote him out in the 2020 general election. The left has tried for three years to remove the president.

Special Counselor Robert Mueller

“

If the House wants to move forward they should vote on impeachment inquiry.”

Willie Gonzales junior political science major

published his report on his investigation into Russian meddling of the 2016 general election and found the president had not colluded with the Russian government in said election. Now that the Ukraine whistleblower reported the phone call between President Trump and the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, the House majority has grabbed this bull by the horns and continue to threaten impeachment inquiry with no real action taking place yet.

“Impeachment is solely a political exercise,” said Sen. Cornyn, “and it’s a political exercise to defeat P r e s i d e n t Trump.”

“Joker” brings societal issues to light and does not glorify violence in viewers Miguel

Ramirez STAFF WRITER

Over the past few years, clowns have been the subject of media attention and controversy. This year alone, two movies “It Chapter Two” & “Joker” have been on the radar of fans, critics, and audiences alike. However, Pennywise is not the clown in question right now.

“

The director made this movie to focus on the character and his vision for the film is to show audiences the downfall of the protagonist into the character he will eventually be known as.”

Jeremiah Durand freshman biochemistry major

America has experienced a numerous number of tragic shootings and because of this a closer look at excessively violent media has taken on scrutiny. Prior to the film’s release the media began to express concern the film “Joker” would glorify violence and influence people to commit crimes similar to the mass shootings seen in the news as of late. This film could have taken on such criticism for it’s themes of violence and chaos in times of fragility. Although the film itself has divided critics and audiences alike.

Fortunately, the film is not meant to inspire audiences to commit acts of violence nor glorify it. The film is meant to be interpreted in many ways.

However, if there is one thing to confirm, the movie does not influence people to commit crimes.

“Joker” is a character piece. The Joker is a popular DC Comics character that has been around since the 1950s as the sworn enemy of the Gotham City hero, Batman. The character has been a fan favorite for a long time. He has been portrayed and voiced by the likes of Mark Hamill, Jack Nicholson, and the critically acclaimed performance from Heath Ledger. Now Todd Phillips, the director, and the “Joker” himself, Joaquin Phoenix, have their interpretations of the character for audiences to see.

The film focuses on the mental downfall of Arthur Fleck, the protagonist, to his newfound identity as the clownprince of crime. While the Joker himself is most commonly known as a character who is mentally unstable and influences others to a life of crime, the film is not telling audiences to commit mass shootings or do others harm.

The violence and mental breakdown of Arthur Fleck is part of his character and his origin as well as a commentary on an unforgiving and antipathetic society.

“The director made this movie to focus on the character and his vision for the film is to show audiences the downfall of the protagonist into the character he will

eventually be known as,” said Jeremiah Durand, freshman biochemistry major.

“No, this movie does not glorify violence.”

The film is meant to highlight the fact that society ignores and disassociates from the need for more mental health awareness. As shown in the movie, which is not a spoiler, Arthur Fleck is cut off from his social worker and no longer has a source to talk to about his mental issues.

T h i s service was cut f r o m government Graphic by Victoria Valle budgetary expenses and can be seen in American society as mental health resources are cut from the budget every year.

According to Mental Health America, one of the nation’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to mental health, there is only one metal health profession per 1,000 individuals that includes psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors and psychiatric nurses combined.

These numbers show just hot abysmal mental health opportunities are in America despite American’s lives

becoming more and stressful than generations.

The Joker has been warning of these concerns for decades and it takes on even more meaning in modern society.

While mental health services are available, the film is meant to show audiences that they are also responsible for their own mental health needs and to be mindful of how they treat others. If people are not mindful of their actions, then they are indirectly responsible as well for the violence that occurs.

In other words, society creates their own Jokers.

However, this is just one interpretation.

Audiences should see the movie and form their own opinions and interpretations of the film.

The goal of this film is to get people talking about its concepts, not to mimic the actions of the Joker. b u s y previous

OPINION 7

OCT. 23, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Participation is vital to the health of the community and to student organizations Victoria

Saldana OPINION EDITOR

Every week a list of upcoming events makes its way into the mailboxes of students’ emails. These events are held by a number of university organizations such as the university programing council, the office of community engagement and other departments on campus. The events range from free services, educational opportunities, or simply a fun time to take a break from course work and meet new people.

Despite these various opportunities, student participation in these events are still low.

The lack of participation on campus can directly affect school spirit and the sense of community which St. Mary’s strives for. This sense of community is a key feature of the Marianist charisms in which one of the values is to educate in family spirit. If students are not out meeting new people and getting involved, then they aren’t really experiencing that sense of community which the school tries to create. Although this sense of community is developed in the small classroom sizes, it is important to get to know peers on a personal level outside academia.

“Student organizations thrive on the participation of not only the student body, but their members.” Kimberly

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief Samantha Salazar Managing Editor Isabela Vazquez Copy Editor Louie Diaz Layout and Design Natalia Zuiñiga Advertising Manager Demi Bestor Photo Editor Cody Rivera Web Editor Victoria Valle Social Media Manager Karina Charo News Editor Samantha Ruvalcaba Lifestyle Editor Sabrina Evans Opinion Editor Victoria Saldana Entertainment Editor Jacob Henson Sports Editor Tawny Davis

Salazar, senior psychology major and said Brandi Loving, senior English “However, counseling had an event president of Golden Key International major, who used to work and plan about mental health and the turnout was Honour Society and Psi Chi/ events for UPC, when it was called low so it also shows that students tend Psychology Club said. She highlights student life, and an undergraduate to want to deal with heavy issues in light that participation must not only come victim advocate and peer educator ways,” Loving said. from the general student body, but from for the office of rattlers against Events like this show how involved members of organizations to create sexual violence. students can be and what more events “Relaxation events showed high meaningful experiences as well. should be centered around in order to “Students must not only join turnouts, like the dogs and such, organizations, but actively participate to anything with animals and comfort cater to student’s needs. Even if an event seems small like bingo or trivia nights feelings,” Loving said. get the full benefits and assist in giving Loving noted that events these are still worthwhile opportunities back to their community and surrounding issues like mental to find the same sense of peace and organization, ” Salazar said. health are important to the relaxation that cuddling with a service Low participation not only student-body. dog can achieve. diminishes community spirit within the school as a whole, but also the spirit of the individuals.

College may be the first time many students are away from their families, and a sense of seclusion is usually the result of this. Add in being overworked and sleep deprived it is easy to feel like one is alone on a large campus surrounded by people.

Events provided by the campus are meant to aid in this loneliness as students make a transition. However, the safety of one’s dorm is often the choice made by students rather than putting themselves out there and showing vulnerability to others.

“Yes, participation from events were low when I worked there,” Events such as Rattler Madness, are ways for students to get out there and have fun.| Photo by Victoria Valle

“Guys” is not gender inclusive and supports the patriarchy Ivan

Briones STAFF WRITER

Gender inclusivity has become a major talking point among politicians and world leaders seeking to answer serious issues facing the LGBTQ+ community.

Inclusivity regarding gender identity has become a valid topic for discussion due to the resurgence of equality movements and demand for a more compassionate society in a complex world.

Though these conversations are usually made in courtrooms and town halls, it begs the question of should the way friends speak to one another reflect a stance on inclusivity?

“Guys” is a phrase that has been thrown around for several years now.

It is a term used to address a group of people and has been infamously adopted by Americans as a sort of newage jargon. When speaking on topics like gender inclusivity, it is critical for one to have a good understanding of lexicon, or the vocabulary surrounding the issue. Therefore, many advocates for

gender inclusivity have challenged how society uses language to perpetuate an oppressive agenda.

“I don’t remember saying ‘guys’ very often before, and it doesn’t bother me if other people use it to refer to me now,” said Isabela Baker senior psychology major. “Once I learned that some people aren’t comfortable being referred to as a “guy”, even though I consider it a neutral term, I don’t use it anymore, and I tend to use more inclusive language.”

Baker identifies as non-binary and uses “they” as their pronoun.

Some will argue that “guys” perpetuates an exclusive rhetoric of a male-dominated society. It does so by referring to everyone as a male, an assumption that long ago would have been valid as typically men were addressed more than women in issues that really mattered. This little piece of the past has followed into everyday vernacular and it should be recognized and acknowledged as being toxic.

Many people across the nation have come forth over the past few years to speak on behalf of themselves and others who identify as trans, non-binary, and

gender nonconforming. The discussion of how to use pronouns and how others like to be addressed is valid and real.

According to The National Center for Biotechnology Information, it is estimated that 390 per 100,000 citizens openly identify as transgender. On this campus alone, there are students who identify as trans and non-binary.

It is imperative citizens recognize the diversity in the United States and come to the reality that within their own communities exists very complex individuals with complex lives and stories. Millions of non-binary and trans people value their pronouns just as much, if not more, than one might value their own ethnicity. It is important to put that into perspective and respect everyone on an individual basis.

“At the end of the day, even common terms like this [guys] can impact people around us, and it doesn’t hurt to treat others the way they would like to be treated,” Baker said.

Faculty Adviser Camille Langston, Ph.D.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Rattler welcomes letters to the editor.

Letters should not exceed 500 words and must include writer’s name, classification, major and telephone number. Editors reserve the right to edit submissions for length, grammar, spelling and content. For more information, call the newsroom at (210) 436-3401 or email rattlernews@gmail.com.

Graphic by Victoria Saldana

10 LIFESTYLE

EDITOR: SABRINA EVANS | @STMURATTLERNEWS | OCT. 23, 2019

MONEY MATTERS: Building up and improving a credit score for financial needs POLINA PROTOZANOVA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“Adulting” during college comes with many “perks”: doing taxes, budgeting, dealing with endless paperwork, keeping up with loans and so much more. All stacked on top of each other, these might seem overwhelming, but there is one essential skill that can help utilize almost every new responsibility: building a good credit score.

How are debit cards different from credit?

The distinction is pretty simple: debit cards use money directly from a person’s bank account, whereas the credit card borrows money with an interest rate. Credit cards come is all shapes and sizes, depending on the provider. For example, different credit cards offer cashback on every purchase.

How will a good credit score help in life? Firstly, banks are more prompt to give a bigger loan with lower interest rates to those with higher credit scores. Secondly, it is easier to sign a lease contract for an apartment or a house because a good credit score serves as further proof of being a

responsible citizen. Lower car insurance rates are also available to high credit score holders. In a word, companies put more trust in those who have a high credit score.

So how does one build and maintain a good credit score? Start by picking the right card: someone who travels on a daily basis might want to choose a card with an airline company. Students can look for cards with general cashback on all purchases o r

bigger cashback for certain items like coffee shops or electronics. Keeping that in mind, also understand that a person’s first credit card will almost never be a bargain; banks and organizations are always hesitant to give good deals to beginners, especially college students.

Try not to take out too many credit cards.

It is important to remember credit cards are a type of loan; by opening too m a n y

Graphic by Sabrina Evans

accounts, people take on too much financial responsibility and put themselves in debt.

Moreover, applying for more credit cards brings credit scores down, no matter if it was a successful application or not—this is called a hard inquiry.

Planning is essential; making payments on time is the single most important part in maintaining a good credit score. Write down all of the payment deadlines and calculate how much money is due to pay on those specific days.

Nevertheless, even when perfecting all of those skills, one might have a below 760 credit score—a general cut-off for an excellent score. The key here is time; employers, landlords, bank officials, etc. want to see their clients not only exceed in credit but also be able to maintain it for several years. Building up credit is not a scary ordeal, it just needs to be managed like everything else about being an adult.

Best of high-end beauty items and drug store brand items SABRINA EVANS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Raw Sugar Scrub is perfect for exfoliating and available at Target, Walgreens, and Walmart.

Lush Cup of Coffee Face and Body Mask is the best way to energize and exfoliate skin and is available only at LUSH.

Beauty and Planet Conditioner is perfect for making hair feel soft and is available at any pharmacy, drug store, or major store.

Charity Pot hand and body lotion can help smooth all skin and rough patches and is available at LUSH.

Beauty and Planet lotion can make all dry skin smooth again and is available at any pharmacy, drug store, or major store.

Happy Happy Joy Joy Conditioner gets all the tangles out and leaves hair with a nice, refreshing scent and is available at LUSH.

Photos and Graphics by Sabrina Evans

LIFESTYLE 11

OCT. 23, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

TREND WATCH: Outfits to wear for the festival season SABRINA EVANS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Try a cute skirt and shirt from Target and fun booties from Pretty Little Thing.

This outfit features a romper from SheIn and Converse from Ross.

For hot days, try a crochet top from Forever 21 and cute sunglasses from SheIn.

Photos and graphics by Sabrina Evans

Why post graduate service should be considered an option by all students SABRINA EVANS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

As students approach graduation, many contemplate the path they will take afterwards whether that means higher education, a career, or other options. One of the options students most commonly overlook is post graduate service. The benefits of service include engaging in professional roles students would normally not have the opportunity to, living in community with a diverse group of people, and having time to contemplate career options for an extended amount of time.

Clare Acosta-Matos, the director of community engagement, spent two years after graduation serving with Rostro de Cristo in Ecuador. She also spent time working with other students who were considering post graduate service. On campus, Acosta-Matos works with members of the St. Mary’s community to provide resources and information to any students interested in post graduate service.

One event available for students to get more information is the Post Graduate Service Fair that occurs every fall. The fair features 30-40 different organizations where representatives speak with students about their mission statements and recruit students to work for their organization

after graduation. In the spring semester, the community engagement office has at least one event dedicated to post graduate service such as inviting a panel of students who have all done service to speak about their experience and answer questions of those interested.

The community engagement office also has a book available to all students called “Response” that is compiled yearly by the Catholic Volunteer Network. This book features numerous faith-based programs and includes all the important information that students need in order to decide which service organization can best fit their interest including stipends, accommodations, and room and board.

Students discerning whether post graduate service is the right path for them or not, they should consider some key details.

The first tip for students from Acosta-Matos is to create a nonnegotiable list which can include whether they need healthcare, room and board, living in community, or if they want to be affiliated with a religious organization. Be sure to also keep in mind that while doing post graduate service, people do not receive a full pay check and instead get a stipend that helps participants meet their basic necessities, meaning living a simple lifestyle is necessary for all post graduate service. Students should also

recognize their needs versus their wants. pressure which can also help students This means understanding that what one form relationships that will benefit them may be saying no to when they agree to throughout the rest of their lives. While this participate in post graduate service is not experience can be nerve-wracking, it is well necessarily negative. For example, some worth it to explore this as a viable option, students may be hesitant because they need because it has the power to change one’s life. a full wage in order to pay off their student “I returned from service 13 years ago and loans. However, in some cases, the loans can I’m still finding ways of how it changed my go into deferment while a student is doing life,” Acosta-Matos said. post graduate service.

If students have any questions or any For those who are interested in post remote interest to do post graduate service, graduate service, there are some key Acosta-Matos is available to speak with components of the commitment that students who are interested and can be students should keep in mind. For one, it reached at cacostamatos@stmarytx.edu. is not an orthodox path to take after graduating which can be complicated to explain to one’s friends and families. The key is to be transparent and have open communication with one’s family especially when explaining the reason why this is the best choice for someone personally.

Understand that it is completely normal to be apprehensive about post graduate service, but the community that this experience provides Alumnus Rafa Lopez (B.A. 2019) chose post graduate service after can help alleviate some graduating from St. Mary’s. | Photo courtesy of @marianistgivepulse

12 ENTERTAINMENT

EDITOR: JACOB HENSON | @STMURATTLERNEWS | OCT. 23, 2019

Local pumpkin patches around campus to bring the spooks IVAN BRIONES STAFF WRITER

October is a great month for San Antonians to enjoy a variety of seasonal attractions and festivities. From pumpkin spice lattes to Fright Fest at Six Flags, one seasonal attraction that has significantly grown in popularity among students is visiting local pumpkin patches. Of over 20 patches in San Antonio, three in particular are a short 20-25 minutes driving distance from campus. Owl Creek Farm, Northwest Hills United Methodist Church, and the Tower of the America’s pumpkin patches are a must-visit for students who are looking to get some Instagram worthy pictures, bring home a pumpkin, or simply enjoy a day out with friends. “[Pumpkin patches are] a great way to signify the beginning of fall with friends, and a great excuse for a photo shoot,” said Yamel Herrera, junior political science major.

The Owl Creek Farm Pumpkin Patch is an annual event that lasts through the month of October. During the month over a thousand pumpkins will be displayed and sold at the farm. The farm also hosts events such as a petting zoo, hayrides, and other fun activities to be enjoyed with friends year-round.

Admission to the farm is $8 per person and will cover the cost of all the events of

one day. This includes access to the seasonal pumpkin patch which is comprised of several different background scenes that are large enough to fit several people in a photo without worrying about background photo bombers. Owl Creek Farm is a must-visit

been put up annually for nearly 30 years.

There is no admission cost and several events are hosted throughout the month of October, such as movie nights and trunk or treat. The patch sells hundreds of pumpkins and gourds of all shapes and sizes every

Make sure to take advantage of local pumpkin patches with free admissions.| Photo by Ivan Briones

for anyone who seriously wants that perfect Instagram picture or charming fall date.

There are also great options for students who are looking for pumpkin patches with no admission cost. Northwest Hills United Methodist Church hosts a patch that has

year to fundraise for youth mission trips, scholarships, and humanitarian aid for its community members and those in need.

“Most of the people in this community have been coming to this patch for years…

We have a lot of stories of families that

started coming to Northwest hills because of the friendliness they experienced at the patch,” said Pastor Chris Baxter of the Northwest Hills United Methodist Church.

Lastly, for students who enjoy a pumpkin patch but would like to stay as close to St. Mary’s as possible, the Tower of the Americas pumpkin patch is a fantastic, free option. Approximately 15-20 minutes away, the Tower of the Americas in downtown San Antonio hosts a smaller, annual pumpkin patch that is joined by live performances every Friday. Though the patch is smaller than the two aforementioned, it is still an option for students who want to stay close to campus.

The patch is located at the heart of downtown, where many other tourist attractions are only walking distances away.

Those who want to experience more than just a pumpkin patch trip should consider the tower. Admission is free, but parking must be taken into consideration. Reserved parking for the tower is $8 for the day, but students can look for alternatives like parking alongside Cesar Chavez Blvd. or any nearby streets with a parking meter.

Other honorary mentions include the South Texas Maize in Hondo, Texas; Helotes Hills Methodist Church, Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, Palo Alto College, and the Pumpkin Patch at The Pearl Farmers Market. Visit the KSAT website for a map of other pumpkin patches in San Antonio.

Caution: don’t get lost in Hondo’s South Texas Corn Maize GERARDO NIÑO-POZOS STAFF WRITER

When people think of Texas, some might imagine cowboys and rodeos. When people think of Hondo, Texas, they should imagine a corn maze. With mid-terms, safely out of the picture, it’s an ideal time for relaxing before deadlines and finals. Located 45 minutes west of San Antonio off of highway 90 is a cornucopia of autumn themed excursions.

Pumpkin carvings, farm animals, hayrides, a dance barn, and of course the corn maze are just a few of the events South Texas Maize has to offer.

The maze is a 7-acre field of planted corn with a new walking-path designed every year. The maze typically takes around 15-30 minutes to walk through, with both a short and long version. Along the way, there are numbered paths based off fun themed question sheets, such as Halloween, scripture, movies, etc. that will guide the way out. For extra spook, venture in and walk through the maze after sundown; the

maze is open until the grounds close.

Food options are predominantly on the meatier side at the South Texas Maize: burgers, turkey legs, chicharrón, brisket tacos, and pizza are main food items.

Vegetarians and vegans may want to pick a meal such as corn in a cup, french fries, or nachos which are the few vegetarian choices and even more limited vegan options.

The food is only a small setback because the South Texas Maize also holds several events throughout its season that students won’t want to miss. The pumpkin patch, which opened Oct. 4, is open until the last Sunday of October. Students can choose between pumpkin carving and pumpkin decorating. However, purchasing pumpkins incurs an additional cost on top of admission.

Fans who love Tejàno, country, bluegrass, rock, and other music might also enjoy the dance barn, which is open for listening and dancing the night away every Saturday from 7-10 p.m. Additionally, every Saturday Doug Whitaker performs trick roping from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Helicopter rides are available

Saturdays and Sundays in October from 2 p.m. to sunset, for an additional fee per person. Lastly, the South Texas Corn Maize will host a Día de los Muertos event on Nov. 2 celebrating loved ones who have passed on, followed by a night parade.

With temperatures finally dropping to tolerable conditions, there is no better way to seize the autumn time feeling than at the South Texas Maize. General admission is $17.50, but unfortunately no student discounts currently exist. However, groups of 15 people or more receive a discount of $1.50 on each ticket purchased. If the price seems too expensive, the South Texas Maize is offering an exclusive discount of 50% off an admission ticket, per dog, during “Dog Dayz Weekends.” With only one more “Dog Dayz Weekend” remaining on Nov. 8–10 make sure to get out there. However, a word of caution, all dogs must be properly vaccinated before allowed entry.

Make sure to make the most of the autumn season and visit the South Texas Maize, open now through Nov. 30.

The corn maze takes 25-30 minutes to complete the long route.| Photo by Jacob A. Henson

ENTERTAINMENT 13

OCT. 23, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

13th Floor’s Clown and La Llorona return for the haunting SAMUEL VEGA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

regrettably drowned, roam the hallways ready to terrify guests.

Minus the wait, there are other activities: Looking for a haunted such as ax house this Halloween? throwing for Then look no further I was mostly scared by jump $5 and a mini because the 13th Floor scares — people jumping out of escape game Haunted Houses San corners.” for $5. The Antonio provides all Andrea Paipa dining area for the thrills and screams freshman biology major food and drink wanted in a frightening keeps groups haunted house. entertained On Oct. 18 a group of 10 St. Mary’s while waiting to get into the haunted house. students and their friends went through the While the actors are ready to terrorize and haunted house. The group used the three- scare visitors, their main goal is to make stories-high slide entrance—an additional sure that visitors are having a good time upgrade—and even though there were and are willing to give high-fives and take numerous groups of four to five people, the photos. With plenty of photo opportunities wait to get inside was about five minutes. of monsters with chain saws, scary clowns Additionally, groups can receive a VIP and other cast members, the staff are really nice overall and try to leave visitors leaving with laughter and memories.

Andrea Paipa, freshmen biology major, described the 13th Floor as fantastic.

“I was mostly scared by jump scares— people jumping out of corners,” Paipa said.

The haunted house is open every night through Saturday, Nov. 2, except for Monday, Oct. 21. Closing time varies depending on the night with 10 p.m. upgrade if celebrating a weeknights usually, and midnight on Friday birthday. and Saturday nights. The cost ranges from Located in downtown San Antonio at $25–30 per person, depending on the night 1203 E. Commerce Street in the Sunset of the week. As Halloween approaches and, Station and St. Paul Square area, once in the especially on weekends, the wait line will haunted house an elevator takes a group on likely grow; it may be worthwhile to invest a journey up to the “13 Floor” where people in the “fast pass” for an extra $10 per person can experience dark and strobed hallways or the “skip the line” pass for an extra $20. filled with classic horrors. Characters such Parking downtown can be challenging, as the clown, who has returned after 13 so be prepared to either pay for parking years to feast on the fears of children, and La or walk from further away. Parking costs Llorona, the weeping woman who continues range from $5-12 and traveling in groups to search for children to replace the two she encourage a sense of security.

“

FROM “HAUNTED TOUR”

Ortega noted the tours covered an expansive history of San Antonio and what might have contributed to certain hauntings.

Downtown San Antonio was described as a cemetery long before the Battle of the Alamo because of the Native Americans who had settled the land before. Additionally, several hotels that still exist downtown today are infamous for crimes committed in the 18th century.

For example, The Spirits of the Alamo was more than just a couple of ghost stories told by some tour guides. Real history exists behind these tours as well as real tragedy. The Gunther Hotel in downtown San Antonio is infamous for its unsolved murder of a

woman in 1965. Room 636 is where a man under the alias of Albert Knox murdered a

“

I think they did an incredibly good job telling the story whether it be the history or maybe the scientific side of what they did.”

Oscar Ortega junior history major

mysterious woman. The woman was never identified; Albert Knox committed suicide when he was found. Her ghost is believed to have never left the hotel with reports

A group of St. Mary’s students trip downtown for a night of frights.| Photo courtesy of Samuel Vega

of a womanly apparition appearing throughout the hotel.

All tours have a $2 discount for students, which is always appreciated.

M o n e t a r i l y, the Spirits, Murderers & Prostitutes of San Antonio tour is the highest priced at $25 for adults and $23 for students and military. This tour begins the latest, starting at 10 p.m. on Fridays

and Saturdays, lasting roughly two hours. The intended audience is 21 and over as the subjects are more gruesome.

The Spirits of the Alamo & El Rio de San Antonio remains the most accessible with a starting time of 8 p.m. and event dates spanning Wednesday through Saturday. This tour lasts roughly 1 1/2 hours.

Tickets are priced with a discount for students at $13, a modest price for students.

Graphic by Jacob A. Henson

14 SPORTS

EDITOR:TAWNY DAVIS | @STMURATTLERNEWS | OCT. 23, 2019

Rattler Madness brings back classic rattler tailgate traditions TAWNY DAVIS SPORTS EDITOR

Rattler Madness was in full swing to kick off the St. Mary’s volleyball game against Tarleton State University on Friday, Oct. 18.

It was held in parking lot T on campus where the first part of Rattler Madness was the tailgate where students got to enjoy food, fun, and music. The tailgate started with free snacks for everyone to eat as well as games like connect four, cornhole, and much more. There was also a live music performance from Emperor Sons—the winners of St. Mary’s 2019’s battle of the bands—for everyone to listen to. Also, the Rattler Band performed a rebooted version of the rattler fight song. The fight song will be called “Rah-Rah” Rattlers and will be used as an anthem to cheer on St. Mary’s athletic teams during home games.

When the tailgate finished, the students migrated to the gym to watch the volleyball game against Tarleton State from courtside seats. The students were given rally towels to wave around and cheer on the volleyball team. The students also got to enjoy pizza donated from Pizza Patrón as

well as made-to-order ice cream sundaes.

“I loved hearing Emperor Sons performance and being able to able to hang out with my friends and play games then

“

The overall Madness experience is great as it showcases the work of spirit and traditions while also bringing students together to support our fellow athletic teams, in this case the women’s volleyball team”

spirit during the game that was enjoyable to see. Junior marketing major, Joshua Breard enjoyed the Rattler Madness experience and how much support he gives to his fellow rattlers.

“The overall Madness experience is great as it showcases the work of spirit and traditions while also bringing students

together to support our fellow athletic teams, in this case the women’s volleyball team,” Breard said.

Overall, Rattler Madness continues to be a tradition that brings students together. It is also an opportunity for to students to have fun and enjoy themselves and show off their school pride.

Joshua Breard junior marketing major

go watch the volleyball game it was an amazing time,” said Brandon Villareal senior communication studies major.

When it came time for the game itself, every person and student in the stands were cheering loud and proud for the volleyball team. Students were waving their towels every play and yelling every time they scored. The girls fought every set, but ultimately fell to Tarleton State three sets to zero with the scores being 15-25, 19-25, and 16-25. Despite it all, there was a lot of school St. Mary’s volleyball players go up for a block against a Tarleton State player.| Photo by Victoria Valle

Alissa Tolbert goes up to defend a ball during game against Tarleton State.| Photo by Victoria Valle

Brandon Villareal and Joshua Breard show their rattler pride during the game.| Photo by Victoria Valle

Women’s tennis team set to compete in ITA championship LARRY SHEA-RODRIGUEZ STAFF WRITER

The women’s tennis team will be represented at the International Tennis Association Cup by sophomore accounting and data analytics, Ashley Penshorn, and freshman international business major, Marina Vigil. After winning the ITA South Central Regional Championship doubles titles last month, both girls received automatic bids into the ITA Cup after Penshorn defeated six opponents and teamed with Vigil to win matches together.

The young duo will look to continue recent success as they compete at the highest level. Both teammates are feeling incredible about what is to come. For Penshorn, it was shocking to make it this far. Her and Vigil are both thankful for the support they have received on their road to nationals.

“It was honestly a shock to me,” Penshorn said. “It is

an amazing feeling to make it to nationals as a sophomore.”

“I am so thankful for all the support that Marina and I had at the regional tournament from our teammates and coaches.”

For Vigil, her first semester has been good so far. She transferred into the program this year and has quickly enjoyed success. Vigil expressed similar feelings to Penshorn. For her, the experience is unique since it is her first semester as a Rattler.

“It feels amazing,” Vigil said, “I have always wanted to go to nationals.”

“What is better than being new to St. Mary’s as a transfer junior, with new teammates and coaches that are great and

being able to go to a tournament like that.”

Vigil and Penshorn share excitement to get out and compete.

Penshorn expressed a lot of e xc ite me nt for the upcoming w e e k of competition.

“I am extremely excited to compete this week at nationals,” Penshorn said. “I think Marina and I have a lot of fun on court and I can’t wait to see what this week of competition holds Graphic by Victoria Valle for us.”

Regardless of how the competition goes, it seems both girls are ready to face the competition with a lot of enthusiasm. The tournament can present a lot of different scenarios for the team to face; however, the duo is prepared to fight through the competition. Vigil is ready to compete and hopes to have fun with her partner in the process.

“We are both really excited,” Vigil said, “It is amazing that we can play great doubles together. “We will be ready to fight and have some fun!”

The athletes will receive an opportunity to qualify for the Oracle ITA National Fall Championships, where they will compete in the same tournament as top Division I players where then each of the four divisional championships will automatically be entered in the championships in Newport Beach, California on Nov. 6-10.

Hopefully, after a week of competition, the girls can bring home a championship for St. Mary’s.

SPORTS 15

OCT. 23, 2019 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Green out soccer game brings awareness for mental health EVA F. GARCIA/TAWNY DAVIS STAFF WRITER & SPORTS EDITOR

The St. Mary’s women’s soccer team held a Green Out Game home against Midwestern State on Mental Health Awareness Day. During the game, green bracelets were sold with the words #RiseUpRattlers on them.

“The Green Out Game was to bring awareness for World Mental Health Day,” said Marlon Furlongue, associate director of internal operations and compliance in the athletic department and who also oversees the student-athlete advisory committee, “along with the Green Out Game we released our video introducing our initiative on mental health.”

The purpose of doing the Green Out Game was for the student-athletes at St Mary’s and their fans to show their support on this very important topic. The hashtag #RiseUpRattlers was used to bring awareness to mental health.

“Our GA Caleb came up with the hashtag,” added Furlongue, “it means that if you are battling any kind of issues surrounding mental health, don’t be afraid to rise up and seek help.”

The week prior to the Green Out Game, student-athletes sold green wristbands during home games and participated in a video about mental health awareness.

The match itself was one to be remembered as the girls defeated the Midwestern State Mustangs 1-0 in a thrilling 91-minute match. The game went into extra time with the game winning goal scored by senior exercise and sports science major, Leah Whitaker.

Whitaker talked about what the game meant to her and why the game meant so much.

“Not only was it important for my team

to work together to get a win, but to be able to get a win and continue to bring awareness to mental health was extremely important as well,” Whitaker said.

Her teammate, senior business finance and risk management major, Lauren Mlouhi also talked about the importance of the game.

“Winning a game to support something that hits home for a lot of us ignites a hunger and a desire to play for those who are affected by such a prevalent [ailment],” Mlouhi said.

“

Not only was it important for my team to work together to get a win, but to bring awareness to mental health was extremely important as well.”

Leah Whitaker senior exercise and sports science major

Both girls also believe that it is important to bring awareness to mental health, even on the field.

“To play for mental health awareness is something I take very seriously because of the people in my life who have suffered through it,” Mlouhi said. “I think that it is important to put mental health awareness out there so that people can identify that they are not alone.”

Furlongue also added students should not be afraid to seek help. Thankfully, St. Mary’s has several resources students can use if and when they want to seek any help. According to Furlongue, since their meetings with the student-athlete committee board, the student-athletes wanted to make mental health awareness one of their main initiatives this academic year

Women’s soccer defends ball against opponent during the green out game.| Photo by Cody Rivera

A player from the StMU soccer teams tries for a goal against Midwestern State.| Photo by Cody Rivera

Men’s soccer team defeats St. Edward’s in Battle of the Saints EVA F. GARCIA STAFF WRITER

The St. Mary’s men’s soccer team beat their rivals, the St. Edward’s University Hilltoppers with a score of 2-0 on Oct. 5.

This win for the Rattlers was the second time they earned a win against St. Edward’s in the past 17 meetings, keeping them unbeaten at home this year.

“The last time we beat St. Edwards was last season with a score of 2-1,” said sophomore business management major, Marlon Flores Flores. “It was a tough game but we were on a high and the team felt confident to take on this fearsome rival.”

Flores scored the first goal for the Rattlers which gave them the upper hand.

“I felt relieved when I scored the first goal because it felt like I broke through a tough wall,” Flores added.

This first score gave the team a boost of confidence, leading to teammate Nenad Markovic to score the second goal. Flores felt empowered after the well-fought win.

“Winning a game as tough as this one gives us a great feeling, both as a team and as individual players,” Flores said. “I had the same feeling when we beat Midwestern University, it is a feeling that tells you that you can achieve anything.”

St. Mary’s men’s soccer players defend the goal during soccer game. | Photo by Cody Rivera

Teammate, Julian Dziuda sophomore biology major, had similar thoughts to Flores.

“St. Mary’s used to be the underdogs, but now we are rising up the ranks and we feel that our program is getting better,” Dziuda said. “St. Edward’s has always been one of the top Division II schools in Texas, so we are striving to get on their level.”

Dziuda also added a confidence boost was what led them to win both games played away and has allowed them to be ranked.

Head men’s soccer coach, Johnny Clifford, was proud of his team, especially since the St. Edward’s Hilltoppers are the one of the Rattler’s biggest rival. Their win against St. Edward’s last season was the first win they had against them in eight years. “[The Battle of the Saints] is important as obviously they are our rivals,” said Coach Clifford. “When we first came here, they were one of the best programs in Division II.” This however, did not stop the Rattlers. It made them work harder to achieve that win.

Coach Clifford added because of their hard work, he feels that the men’s soccer team is more than capable of reaching the same

“

St. Mary’s used to be the underdogs, but now we are rising up the ranks and we feel that our program is doing better, St. Edward’s has always been one of the top Division II schools in Texas, so we are striving to get on their level.”

Julian Dziuda sophomore biology major

heights that the St. Edward’s Hilltoppers did.

This past weekend, the men’s soccer team managed to get to more wins from their trip to Eastern New Mexico and West Texas. “[The last two teams] were both top 25 ranked teams so I’m hoping it puts us back into the national rankings,” added Coach Clifford, “it’s something I think the boys deserve as they have been fantastic recently winning four [games] in a row.”

They will be traveling through Texas and Oklahoma for their next upcoming games.

This is an opportunity for the team to continue fighting and improving. The team remains positive, working hard everyday to earn more wins. Their next home game will be on Oct. 31 for the Lone Star Conference.