Vol. 109 Issue No. 5 2/11/2021

Vol 109 | Issue 5 | Feb. 11, 2021 | San Antonio, Texas

Largest event of the season canceled yet again due to COVID SAMANTHA RUVALCABA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The St. Mary’s University Alumni Association announced the cancellation of Fiesta Oyster Bake 2021 due to the rising COVID-19 cases in San Antonio. This is the second year t h e annual spring event is canceled as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“I am sad to announce that we are canceling Fiesta Oyster Bake 2021 due to the substantial numbers of COVID-19 cases in our region,” president of the association Joe Vela Jr., said in the association’s release.

University executive director of alumni relations Pete Hansen said the association met with the Fiesta San Antonio Commission and Johns Hopkins professor of surgery Martin “Marty” Makary for months before announcing the decision on Jan. 22.

The commission and city jointly announced on Feb. 1 that Fiesta will be postponed until June 17-27. However, given the lack of student presence on campus during the summer and money invested in entertainment for the event,

Hansen said the event’s organizers did not find June postponement “worth the risk.”

“The main thing was safety. We wanted to make sure our campus was safe, protecting

our campus community members to care for each other as a family and pledge to take all necessary steps to protect themselves and the San

health by adapting this year’s Fiesta Oyster Bake plans.”

Fiesta Oyster Bake is the association’s largest fundraiser, drawing in 60,000 to 70,000 attendees and generating an estimated $500,000 for scholarships and programs annually. The association’s scholarship endowment currently aids 70 students.

“Canceling the event hurts us by not being able to put money into the endowment,” Hansen said. “We’ve been blessed to have the resources to estor y Demi B b ic h be able to withstand two [canceled] p Gra Oyster Bakes in a row but we definitely don’t want to miss any more.”

E v e n w i t h o u t the annual revenue of Oyster Bake, H a n s e n said the association will continue to be able to support students through the scholarship endowment, “We did help the campus this Photo courtesy of @StMarysU past summer, making a everybody. We didn’t feel comfortable Antonio community in which we live, trying to throw it together in June and it not study and work,” said university president $600,000 donation to help the student fund, Thomas Mengler. “We greatly appreciate the and helped the happen,” Hansen said.

“As part of the university’s careful response to the pandemic, we have asked all

Alumni Association’s decision to support our commitment to protecting the public’s

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OPINION

LIFESTYLE

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

PG.7

PG.10

PG.13

PG.16

New COVID vaccines give students hope

How to budget for the spring semester

San Antonio Rodeo still on despite COVID

Sports return with new safety guidelines

2 NEWS

EDITOR: POLINA PROTOZANOVA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | FEB. 11, 2021 FROM “OYSTER BAKE”

THE RATTLER WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS MEETINGS

university on some shortfalls created by COVID-19,” Hansen added.

Hansen said the association plans to continue its other fundraising efforts this

year including a golf tournament in May, a gala in the fall, and a sweepstakes of raffle tickets. Fiesta Oyster Bake is scheduled to return April 1-2 of next year.

“Definitely things should be much better in the spring of 2022,” Hansen said. “We’ll

still have our usual processes, working with the City of San Antonio Health Department and we’ll have to monitor what’s going on in the community. So, we feel comfortable that we have the ability to make adjustments in the safety plan.”

Midori Flores publishes her first book during quarantine

two met frequently to bring art to the story. Flores then used the online self-publishing Junior environmental science student company IngramSpark to put Midori Flores never imagined bringing her it all together. first book idea to fruition and becoming a “It just all started published author at the age of 21. But that all happening and I was able to TUESDAY, FEB. 23 changed on Nov. 30 when her book “We Are then get my own copies once 5 p.m.

All Human” became widely available in an everything was solidified effort to teach children about equality. with IngramSpark. … It was TUESDAY, MAR. 16 a process, but it’s all been 5 p.m. working out really well,” [The book is] definitely a way Flores said. for [children] to just appriciate The book follows the ZOOM that we are all human no matter life of a child referred to as Meeting ID: our differences, whether that be ‘Baby,’ who comes across 949 1578 3128 who we love, what we believe several people with diverse in, who we like, or what we look backgrounds while growing up. Throughout his story, like.”

Midori Flores Baby asks his mother if the junior environmental science major differences in others that he Flores’ “We Are All Human” book.| Photo by Polina Protozanova is seeing are okay. His mother Although her studies are in the scientific affirms that they are with the repeated message nieces who were engaged with the new information being presented to field, Flores began creative them in a storytime format. writing on the side “At the end, there’s a slogan following her first year that’s repeated in my book - that’s at St. Mary’s.

The idea of CHECK US OUT ONLINE! the title too: ‘We are all human.’ writing a book for future And at the end, my sister was generations came to her www.stmurattlernews.com like, ‘We are all what?’ and her early in her writing, but daughters said, ‘human!’ It was she put the idea aside just really surreal to me to see thinking it would not that,” Flores said. be possible that early in In her book dedication, Flores her writing. thanks her support network, Flores said that which includes her mother, who years later, during the helped her in the creation of the STANDARDS first lockdown issued book.

She ends the dedication The Rattler upholds the Mission Statements to prevent the spread with a message to her readers of COVID-19, she of St. Mary’s University. The publication writing, “May we all continue to follows the Canons of Responsible found herself having a spread the message of equality, for Journalism, the Associated Press Stylebook conversation with her which we will never achieve world and the Student Publication Policy. The sister about introducing peace until we achieve equality.”

Rattler is a member of the Associate diversity to her nieces.

Collegiate Press, the College Media Flores said that her writing is Flores remembered Association and the Texas Intercollegiate not limited to just one genre. She her original book idea Press Association. is currently working on a horror that could serve as an thriller and a poetry book. introduction to diverse “I’ve always wanted to be a POLICY ON NEWSPAPER THEFT backgrounds including published author, but I never race, the LGBTQ Due to high production costs, members actually pictured myself doing of the St. Mary’s University community community, religion, it,” Flores said. “So, it’s really are permitted one copy per issue. Where learning disabilities surreal. And I do want to keep on available, additional copies may be and socioeconomic class. writing more, now with the goal purchased (for 50 cents each) by contacting After deciding to go of getting more books published.”

The Rattler newsroom. Newspaper theft is for it, Flores began writing a crime. Those who violate the single copy “We Are All Human” is the story and looking for rule may be subject to civil and criminal available at Flores’s website prosecution and/or subject to an illustrator, who she www.midoriflores.com, and university discipline. later found through a on the Barnes and Noble and family friend. In order Amazon websites. to fund her partnership The book is also available at EDITORIAL STATEMENT with illustrator Patricia The Twig Book Shop located The content published in the Rattler is the Riojas, she created a Midori Flores with her new book “We Are All Human.”| Photo by Samantha Ruvalcaba at the Pearl Brewery where responsibility of each respective writer. The GoFundMe fundraiser Flores will be having a book views expressed in the staff editorial reflect in July 2020 and raised a total of $900.

The of “We are all human. ” signing event Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to the views of the majority of the “[The book is] definitely a way for 12 p.m. editorial staff.

I’ve always wanted to be a [children] to just appreciate that we are all This February will be the first Black human no matter our differences, whether History Month after Flores’ book was published author but never MISSIONS that be who we love, what we believe in, who released.

She hopes it can serve as actually pictured myself doing Grounded partially in the Marianist values we like, or what we look like,” Flores said. eduactional reading material for children it. So it’s really surreal. And I do of family and community, we maintain an “And, that they can be whoever they want as during months of cultural celebration, open forum for discussion. We strive to want to keep on writing more, well, and that’s all acceptable because we are and year round. produce quality content that informs, not now with the goal of getting all human.” “[Children] are going into a world where inflames; encourages, not discourages. more books published.”

We must be sensitive, not sensationalistic; In January of this year, Flores visited her everyone is becoming more aware about reasonable, not ridiculous; balanced, Midori Flores sister who had just received her first copy of these differences and are becoming more not bitter. junior environmental science major the book. Her sister read the book to Flores’ accepting of them,” Flores said.

SAMANTHA RUVALCABA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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NEWS 3

FEB. 11, 2021| STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Theology department receives $25,000 grant to lead “La Biblia” workshops RYAN ESTES CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The St. Mary’s University Blume Library is one of two libraries to receive the inaugural Open Educational Resources Grant from the American Theological Library Association (Atla).

Established in 1946, Atla is composed of librarians and information professionals devoted to advancing the study of religion and theology by promoting “worldwide scholarly communication in religion and theology by advancing the work of libraries and related information providers.”

Professor and reference librarian Diane Duesterhoeft and theology department chair Todd Hanneken each provided their thoughts on the Atla grant and the ways the grant can benefit the Marianist community at St. Mary’s.

“The grant funds will be used to create a modular open textbook supplemented with primary source readings and communitycreated content for the undergraduate course Foundations of Reflection: God. The new grant solves a fundamental issue many students face every semester: high textbook costs,” Duesterhoeft said.

“Each semester, students are forced to choose between buying new or used, or renting new or used, when obtaining books for their classes. The stress of choosing a payment method is removed for the Foundations of Reflection: God class, thanks to the Atla grant’s funding of free

books,” she added.

Hanneken expanded on the role of the grant, commenting on the essence of the online resource, the overarching nature of modern textbook usage, and the theological importance of information.

One of the many features of the textbook compares geographic features of important places in the history of Christianity to local settings. For example, students can compare the size of Vatican City to the size of the St. Mary’s campus, or the size of the nation of Israel to south Texas.

Hanneken emphasized the value of gaining a skill set for the workforce with a St. Mary’s education, downplaying the often overbearing sense of a capitalist business model and appreciating a new direction for textbook usage.

“The internet, open standards for digital collaboration and digital humanities methodologies are a new way of disseminating knowledge. … Wisdom and understanding come from God and are poured forth on all creation. Hoarding or withholding truth from all who seek it is an offense against God,” said Hanneken on the theological importance of information.

The Atla grant will enrich the education of St. Mary’s students for years to come, providing not only easy access to a textbook but also information that lends itself to the building of a second project.

Looking to the San Antonio community at large, the St. Mary’s University Theology Department received a $25,000 grant from

the Catholic Biblical Association and Confraternity of Christian Doctrine to “foster love and explorations of Scripture in the Catholic communities of San Antonio and beyond.”

The monetary resources from the grant are helping fund three full-day workshops to be led by Theology faculty, the Mexican American Catholic College, and student researchers and collaborators at the Oblate School of Theology. The three full-day workshops in development are called the “La Biblia Project,” which aims to foster interpersonal communication among

the faithful.

According to Hanneken, the initiative was inspired by Pope Francis’s creation of “The Sunday of the Word of God,” which aims to celebrate “how the risen Jesus opened his disciples’ minds to understand the Scriptures.” Unique facets of the La Biblia Project are its bilingual nature and livestreams. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the workshops will be uploaded to YouTube, presumably after a livestream, with professors and theologians speaking in both English and Spanish.

Theology book sections located on the third floor of the Louis J. Blume Library. | Photo by Demi Bestor

University partners with Curative and Community Labs to administer testing POLINA PROTOZANOVA NEWS EDITOR

As January marks over a year since COVID-19 entered the United States, colleges implement new measures to guarantee student safety on campus.

One of those measures is consistent testing. Universities across the country now require mandatory negative COVID-19 test results from students who wish to stay in dorms. St. Mary’s University is not an exception. For the spring 2021 semester, St. Mary’s administration partnered with Curative and Community Labs to provide more systematic testing procedures.

Both facilities offer rapid coronavirus testing on campus. However, while Curative is available to every student as well as the general San Antonio population, Community Labs’ services are limited only to residential students at St. Mary’s. In fact, this spring semester the campus population is required to test negatively if they wish to remain on campus.

Vice Provost and Dean of Students Timothy Bessler says the partnership with Curative appeared somewhat suddenly through the university’s alumni network.

“There is a gentleman by the name of Paul Saenz, he is a physician with the sports medicine associates of San Antonio,” Bessler said. “Dr. Saenz called me late in the Fall semester and said ‘Hey, I’ve got a connection that I want to introduce you to because I think we can get testing for St. Mary’s community possibly without cost to the institution or to the students. … He facilitated a

couple of phone calls and because of his relationship through his work with this company, it helped us establish a relationship that brought the Curative kiosk to campus!”

Located in Lot D, near the NW 36th street entrance, the Curative kiosk provides free, contactless, and selfadministered COVID-19 saliva tests available to anyone by appointment.

The results arrive within a 36 to 48 hour time period and can be accessed on the Curative website.

success of the fall semester plan.

“The surveillance testing program that we are doing with the Community Labs will run the entire spring semester, what happens beyond that point. …

We’ll have to improvise down the road,” Bessler said. “The goal was to test every resident student as they came into the residence halls within the first week or so. And we’ve gotten a significant majority of resident students, 90 plus percent, but we haven’t gotten everybody yet.”

Curative kiosk now located in Lot D, near NW 36th street entrance.| Photo by Samantha Ruvalcaba

Besides the mandatory testing administered by Community Labs for residential students, the university administration added no new health safety measures largely due to the

The next round of surveillance testing is set to begin Feb. 3. At least 10 percent of the residential population will be tested every week for the rest of the semester.

“The expectation is if you are called to test, you come in, and you test.

That’s our way of keeping a finger on the presence of COVID-19 within the community so that we don’t have an unexpected or an unknown spread,” added Bessler.

“As of right now, I have taken the COVID-19 test with St. Mary’s University three times. Out of those three times I have tested negative twice and am still awaiting the results of the third one,” said junior political science major Marina Rodrigues.

“The whole process was simple and took less than 15 minutes. It was a nasal swab test which we did ourselves and returned safely to those assisting.

Today, I was also chosen for the weekly residential tests. This was a similar process but took even less time because it was less students. I also took one other test last week at the kiosk located in parking lot D. It was not required by the school but since it is free, I took it upon myself to get tested every week just as a safety precaution. Each one of these times have been simple, fast, and safe. I would definitely recommend coming on campus to get tested to anyone who has to or is considering it,” added Rodrigues.

As the national situation concerning COVID-19 progresses, the university continues to take appropriate steps to guarantee the safety of its students.

However, as Bessler mentioned, sometimes the community will have to improvise along the road with unpredictable aspects, such as vaccine rollout or new waves of cases emerging.

Students at St. Mary’s benefit from the Marianist values of community and stewardship.

We are one community striving for the common good. Together, we create life-changing opportunities that can improve the world. It only takes one University to make learners for life.

It only takes one student to begin this journey. It’s one degree that changes everything.

One Degree Can Change Everything AT ST. MARY’S UNIVERSIT Y

The Catholic and Marianist University www.stmarytx.edu

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P E AC E C O R P S .G OV/ WO R K

6 OPINION

EDITOR: SEANA BARCLAY | @STMURATTLERNEWS | FEB. 11, 2021

Slow changes to student loan forgiveness during COVID sparks concerns LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA SPORTS EDITOR

In March 2020, a freeze was placed on interest and payments on all student loans.

This move was made due to the ongoing financial struggles that many Americans have encountered since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Thankfully, as of Jan. 20 of this year, President Joe Biden has extended the hold on student loans through September. According to campaign promises, the Biden administration also plans to cancel a certain amount of all student debt within his first 100 days in office.

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Public education systems in Texas have failed to provide any substantial financial literary training to Texas students. That failure on behalf of our state government has left millions of Texas students unprepared to make strong and well-educated financial decisions when they go to college.”

Zane Smith sophomore finance and risk management major

The move will likely be met with controversy, but the reality is that this order will likely be necessary and may ultimately prove to be a temporary fix to a much greater issue. After all, national debt keeps ballooning, and the bill is already in

the trillions. Furthermore, simply forgiving loan debt is not a catch-all solution.

The reality is college costs have risen dramatically across the board and this increase shows no sign of slowing down.

Forbes wrote in 2018 that college costs are increasing eight times faster than wages. In 2019, CNBC reported, “As of 2018, overall state funding for public two and four-year colleges was more than $6.6 billion below what it was in 2008, just before the recession fully took hold, after adjusting for inflation.”

Even St. Mary’s University saw an increase in tuition costs.

Sophomore criminal justice major Mitchell Yocham was one of many angered by the increase this year, “I was upset because this year everything costs more, and we can’t even do half of the things that we could do last semester.”

But why does this matter? Everyone knows costs are going up and people from lower socio-economic backgrounds are just as rapidly being priced out or graduate with a debt they will never be able to overcome.

However, loan forgiveness is not a longterm solution. It is only the first step in a series of solutions that should be made to change student costs for the better.

Out of control interest rates and rapidly increasing tuition costs must also be reined in wherever possible.

Additionally, the process of accepting

private and public loans should not be as simple as a signature. Sure, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid portal requires students interested in borrowing to read information on loans and watch a short video explaining debt, but that is nowhere near enough time nor information for a student to understand the risks of what they are signing up for.

Even if the student receives a longer information session, the appalling financial

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education in America may see the student leaving with more information that ultimately does not matter if they are not taught what an Annual Percentage Rate means or shown how to appropriately budget post-graduation.

Sophomore finance and risk management major Zane Smith feels strongly about this topic as he is currently lobbying the state of Texas to improve financial education and believes the government needs to intervene.

“Critics of student debt cancellation often argue that it is the student’s fault that they are in debt, but that is simply not true,” Smith said. “We cannot expect students, and especially first-generation students, to know what they are getting into when they enter a

system that is stacked against them. Public education systems in Texas have failed to provide any substantial financial literacy training to Texas students. That failure on the behalf of our state government has left millions of Texas students unprepared to make strong and well-educated financial decisions when they go on to college.”

As the reality changes in America, students may graduate with “safe” degrees and still be unable to find a job after college.

Furthermore, as technology continues to rapidly change, students may begin their college career in a specific field but find it has dramatically changed by the time they graduate. Regardless, the economic future for many Americans, especially college students and recent graduates, remains uncertain.

Some have even suggested shifting the financial responsibility further onto universities through plans like an Income Share Agreement. Some other conservatively minded solutions also come with difficulties and others only address some of the issues related to student loans.

Student loan debt is not going anywhere, and it will continue to increase until something is done to address the issue.

However, canceling a portion of the debt should not be championed as “the solution.”

The difference between 20,000 and 30,000 dollars in debt is nominal, it is money people do not have. Instead, a shift in thinking needs to occur and introduce debt forgiveness as a first, and much needed, step in the right direction.

The “weed out the weak” mentality in STEM careers is harmful to students SEANA BARCLAY OPINION EDITOR

There is a trend in Hollywood depictions of college where a group of bright-eyed, bushy-tailed freshmen sit in their first college lecture eagerly awaiting their professor’s wisdom and intellect, only to be told that half of the people sitting with them in the class will not last until graduation. They are told that the weak must be weeded out and only the most determined, ambitious students will remain to walk the stage after four years. Unfortunately, this is one of the few things Hollywood has gotten right.

In the world of STEM majors, there is this fear that if students do not perform at a near perfect level consistently, they will be cut off from their majors and the careers they aspire to have in the future. While the drive to do the very best is certainly not a bad thing, this mentality of weeding out the weak definitely can be.

“Although I get where [the mentality] can be beneficial in the sense it pushes you to work hard, but it should not be as mentally exhausting as it is,” junior biology major Bianca Benavidez said.

Senior biology major Kimberly Ramirez agreed, stating, “A more beneficial mentality would be the mentality of wanting to do better, but not to necessarily want to weed the weak out.”

Ramirez then went on to talk about how here at St. Mary’s, organic chemistry is often considered to be a weed-out class for those looking to pursue a career in the medical field.

“Because there are so many biology

majors who want to go into the medical field, [organic chemistry] is used to basically see who is going to be able to succeed in the field of medicine,” Ramirez said.

“I remember there being many sleepless nights [freshmen year] because I did not want to be ‘weeded out,’” Benavidez echoed.

With all that in mind, why is it that this mentality seems so prevalent especially in today’s world which needs more STEMfocused careers? A world where fields such as science continue to make advancements in great strides. Why do academic institutions feel the need to weed people out when universities should be encouraging as many people as possible to pursue careers in these ever-growing fields?

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[A] mentality of personal success would be the best for people to have. If you strive to constantly do your best and are always trying to make sure you are ahead of the game, it will make people better prepared for their careers because of their great deal of knowledge.”

Kimberly Ramirez senior biology major

Perhaps in the past when these fields, especially that of engineering and technology, were first beginning to expand to what they are today it would have been beneficial to encourage the best of the best

to continue forward. But now with so many opportunities and careers available, there is truly no reason to discourage anyone from going forward in whatever STEM field they would like.

Similarly, no student should be barred from pursuing a career in medicine or research as the fields will always be in need of more people who are passionate about the subjects. The weed-out mentality can actively discourage generations of students away from STEM careers they would have otherwise thrived in if they had been properly encouraged.

“I have met wonderful people with amazing personalities who would have been wonderful in the STEM field. Unfortunately, one or two classes get in the way of this and they immediately have to switch majors,” Benavidez explained.

The weed-out mentality also builds this idea that students must compete with each other in order to succeed in their classes rather than cooperate the way they’d be expected to in a professional setting.

This competitive nature makes it even harder for those struggling in their classes to seek help for fear of being seen as weak by their peers and professors. “[A] mentality of personal success would be the best for people to have,” Ramirez said. “If you strive to constantly do your best and are always trying to make sure you are ahead of the game, it will make people better prepared for their careers because of their great deal of knowledge.” “[The weed-out mentality] is a toxic way

of thinking because at the end of the day, we should be cheering each other on and helping as much as we can,” Benavidez said.

So instead of looking around a lecture hall and wondering how many fellow students are going to be left by the end of the semester, students should instead think of their peers as future coworkers and work towards helping each other succeed in their college careers. There are more than enough STEM centered fields and careers out there, and it is t i m e universities start acting like it too.

Graphic by Demi Bestor

OPINION 7

FEB. 11, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Political science students grapple divisive political climate SAMANTHA RUVALCABA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Over the past decade, society has been steadily moving past the notion that discussing politics in professional and academic settings is taboo. For students in the STEM or business fields, this notion may still ring true, but for humanities students, specifically those studying political science, the line between divisive political opinions and standardized course material has become blurred.

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I have engaged in conversation with some classmates and it’s a fearful conversation in the way that we don’t know what’s going to happen next and tensions are high all across the board.”

Angela Perez senior political science major

If students were concerned about being “too political” during class discussions before, the current intense division between political parties and views has posed an even greater challenge. Stephen Talik, senior political science major, said the national divide has negatively impacted his political science education.

“I do not make a secret of my political opinions to those who know me, but I do

EDITORIAL STAFF

not feel comfortable at all expressing them in general or in class,” Talik said. “I have been verbally abused and attacked by others over my views before.”

Arturo Vega, Ph.D., has taught in the political science department at St. Mary’s University for over 11 years. By teaching courses from American National Government, U.S. Presidents, and Scope of Political Science, Vega has seen the impact national political discourse can have on his students.

“When Donald Trump was elected in 2016, there was a lot of anxiety, there was angst the day after the election. And a lot of people were depressed, and we had the conversations ‘Okay let’s talk about it, let everybody have a chance to talk about it.’

And there was a lot of emotion that day. We just explore the emotions and let people sort of flesh that out.”

Trump’s election in 2016 was only the beginning of what would become an escalating array of political news. More recently, violent events like the Feb. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol have some students anxious about the future of

Graphic by Anna Davila

Copy Editor Elizabeth Perez Layout and Design Sara Regassa Advertising Manager Sofia Ruescas Photo Editor Ivan Briones Web Editor Briana Bailey News Editor Polina Protozanova Lifestyle Editor Gerardo Niño Pozos Opinion Editor Seana Barclay Entertainment Editor Jacob A. Henson Sports Editor Larry Rodriguez-Shea Faculty Adviser Ana Bendaña

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.

recognizes that students may already be consuming a large amount of political discourse through social media or television.

“I don’t want to replicate that in the classroom, but at the same time when an event like [the Capitol attack] happens, to just neglect it – to say it’s nothing – isn’t helpful either,” Vega said.

Montserrat Garcia, freshman political science and international and global studies major, said her experience so far has been a non-partisan education from her professors and respectful discussions with her classmates.

“I would describe the conversations we’ve had in my political science courses about these divisive topics to be very eye-opening and respectful. No one is condescending whenever there is disagreement,” Garcia said.

“What we [professors] try to do is create an environment for students to feel comfortable and that can’t happen on the first day,” Vega said. “And so [students] are sort of gauging their participation and trying to figure out where they fit. If you force the conversation, if you make people say something, they won’t say what they really think.”

“Everybody’s views are important, and we’ll flesh them out and we’ll help you think about your views and reflect upon them and analyze them,” Vega added.

Students excited for distribution of COVID-19 vaccine DIDIER CADENA STAFF WRITER

Editor-in-Chief Samantha Ruvalcaba Managing Editor Demi Bestor

the U.S. “I have engaged in conversation with some classmates and it’s a fearful conversation in the way that we don’t know what’s going to happen next and tensions are high all across the board,” senior political science major Angela Perez said.

Last fall, Vega taught the U.S. presidency course. In this course, students would discuss the conventionality of U.S. presidents that they were familiar with and contrast that with the unconventionality of former U.S. President Donald Trump; a practice that would eventually be too taxing for students.

“I think at the end, students were a little bit fatigued,” Vega said. “They were a little zoom fatigued and they wanted the election to be over. They were more concerned about the pandemic, their parents and things of that [nature]. Other things took precedence, so they got tired about this sort of drama that was presented.”

Vega said when it comes to incorporating national breaking news politics into the course material, he creates a space for his students to discuss it.

However, h e

As this new year begins, some things have yet to change especially regarding the coronavirus pandemic. The year 2020 was an extremely rough time for everyone and the uncertainty of living through the pandemic has hit the community hard. Many people are tired and still can’t wait for things to get better or return to normal. Thankfully, the new year has brought some hope; a COVID-19 vaccine has been created and is slowly being distributed across the nation.

Several people in the St. Mary’s community have already begun to take doses of the vaccine, with many more waiting to be eligible to receive it.

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more normal,” Cervantes said.

Attitudes like Cervantes’ towards the vaccine are majorly popular across campus as many students and staff have signed up to receive doses of the vaccine. Some have already received their first dose and are awaiting their second dose while still others eagerly await their first dose.

As the St. Mary’s community continues to await the distribution of the vaccine, some issues are brought to light such as who will receive the vaccinations first. Cervantes, when asked about the uneven distribution of the vaccine, stated, “It is important to ask questions about who will get the vaccine first. We know the history of the uneven distribution of vaccines in minority communities. And it seems to be the same thing with this one as well.”

“We can see that communities of color have been heavily hit by the pandemic, but we can see they aren’t receiving the same amount of access to the vaccine to keep pace with,” Cervantes added.

It is important to think about how certain communities will be affected by the uneven distribution of the vaccine. In the St. Mary’s community, there are many who will qualify for the vaccine later than others. Even though things are starting to change, it is still extremely important for the St. Mary’s community to stick together and continue to follow the various protocols on campus. It is important to think about ourselves and our community and continue to stay safe.

“At the end of the day, we hope that we can be safe and once again be able to safely be around people again,” Cervantes said.

At the end of the day, we hope that we can be safe and once again be able to safely be around people again.”

Bryann Cervantes senior marketing and visual communication design major

Around campus, there has been plenty of talk and excitement regarding the vaccine and what this means for the St. Mary’s community. Senior marketing and visual communication design major Bryann Cervantes expressed his excitement about the vaccine.

“I think that it’s great that a vaccine is out there for us. Hopefully, it can be widely distributed across the nation quickly. It seems feasible that we can soon move in the direction of change where things seem a bit

Analicia Valdivia receiving the first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.| Photo by John Valdivia

COVID-19 FREQUENTLY AS Are COVID-19 vaccines safe?

How much does the COVID-19 vaccine cost?

There is no out-of-pocket cost to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The federal government is providing the vaccine at no cost to patients.

The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines being used have gone through rigorous studies to ensure they are as safe as possible. Systems that allow the CDC to watch for safety issues are in place across the entire country.

What are the side effects of the vaccine?

Common side effects such as fever, chills and tiredness have been reported. The CDC has also learned of reports that some people have experienced severe allergic reactions.

How effective is the vaccine?

In clinical trials, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were shown to be about 95% effective at preventing illness caused by COVID-19.

What is President Biden’s vaccine distribution plan?

President Biden wants to speed the pace of vaccinations with a $20 billion national vaccination program. He has set a target of administering 100 million doses of the vaccine during the first 100 days of his presidency.

Where can I find more info about the vaccine?

City of San Antonio COVID-19 Hotline open and available in English and Spanish at: (210) 207-5779 M-F: 8 AM - 5 PM SAT - SUN: 8 AM - 12 PM

For more information, please consult your healthcare provider or visit www.cdc.gov.

Where can we go to get a vaccine?

As vaccines become more available, people will be able to get them at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, hospitals and other “usual” sites. Large vaccine hubs in San Antonio include: City of San Antonio (Metro Health), University Health System and WellMed.

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What is vaccine distribution like in San Antonio?

Metro Health and WellMed will each have 9,000 additional vaccines available to those in groups 1A and 1B. University Health is currently scheduling appointments for those in the 1B group, including people 65 and older and people 16 and older with a chronic medical condition.

Are there any restrictions about who can receive the vaccine?

Yes. You cannot receive the vaccine if any of the following are true: •You have received another vaccine in the last 14 days. •You have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the last 10 days.

Who is getting the vaccine now?

Front-line healthcare workers or residents of long-term care facilities (part of Phase 1A in Texas) are eligible to receive the vaccine. People in Phase 1B are now also eligible to get the vaccine depending on availability and the provider.

Will I be required to get vaccinated?

The federal government does not require vaccination for individuals. For some healthcare workers or essential employees, a government or employer may require that workers be vaccinated as a matter of state or other law.

When will it be my turn to get a COVID-19 vaccine?

If I have already had COVID-19 and recovered, do I still need to get vaccinated?

Yes. Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that reinfection with COVID-19 is possible, you should be vaccinated regardless of whether you already had COVID-19 infection.

People who are in high risk groups and those who have a greater exposure to the virus will receive priority.

Forecasts suggest that people from priority groups will be vaccinated during the first half of 2021, while the rest of the groups will receive vaccinations in the second half of the year.

Sources: www.cdc.gov www.uofmhealth.org covid19.sanantonio.gov www.sanantoniomag.com www.universityhealthsystem.com

10 LIFESTYLE

EDITOR: GERARDO NINO POZOS | @STMURATTLERNEWS | FEB. 11, 2021

Oyster Bake cancellation ripples across campus community turn them into the booth in exchange for $5 to $10 worth of coupons. Volunteers assist in managing the booth, recycling material from other booths as well as collecting oyster shells to be recycled in local waters.

“The ECO Club and AMP / TRiO SSS

GERARDO NINO POZOS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

For the second consecutive year, the annual Fiesta Oyster Bake celebration, typically held in April, has been canceled.

Though expected, the cancellation has left an impact on St. Mary’s. Annually, Oyster Bake generates funding for various scholarships and programs for the university while also supporting its vendors and drawing in huge crowds from the local community.

Mike Martinez, Oyster Bake chair, explains the reasoning behind the decision.

“Although it’s disappointing, you have to take the safety of the people on campus and our customers into consideration. So again, although it was disappointing, it was a right decision to make,” said Martinez.

Most agree that the decision was the optimal choice considering the pandemic.

With the successful release of two Food and Drug Administration approved vaccines, more people are being vaccinated on a rolling basis. However, city officials are still erring on the side of caution before hosting huge events. For example, the city of New Orleans canceled mass parades and bars for the annually anticipated Mardi Gras celebration. As of early February, Bloomberg reports 40.5 million people have been vaccinated in the U.S. – an average of 1.43 million doses being given per day.

“I was relieved because the decision prioritized protecting our community considering there are a high level of

“

”The ECO Club and AMP / TRiO SSS grant receive a small donation of money per student that volunteers. The TRiO SSS program uses that money to help fund a scholarship for a TRiO SSS student. Therefore, this year we won’t earn that money from Oyster Bake to fund a scholarship for a student.”

Marcy LaBossiere director of the AMP / TRiO Student Support Services (SSS)

Photo Courtesy of @StMarysU Instagram

COVID-19 cases currently. It was a good choice not to offer an event that would welcome a large amount of people to the campus,” said Marcy LaBossiere, director of the AMP / TRiO student support services (SSS).

LaBossiere is a vital part of the recycling efforts during Oyster Bake, overseeing a booth with volunteers. The booth, Cans for Coupons, encourages Oyster Bake visitors to collect their cans during their stay and

grant receive a small donation of money per student that volunteers. The TRiO SSS program uses that money to help fund a scholarship for a TRiO SSS student.

Therefore, this year we won’t earn that money from Oyster Bake to fund a scholarship for a student,” said LaBossiere.

A huge loss to several organizations across campus is the loss of revenue generated from Oyster Bake volunteering. For niche organizations, their entire budget for the following year depends on the number of

volunteers participating. This affects their ability to host events for their members and requires more creative fundraising and conservative spending.

“It’s the purpose of the Oyster Bake to raise funds for scholarship and university advancement. It’s a major fundraiser, so if you don’t have that, you know you have to find those funds or you have to decide what we can’t do for the university,” said Martinez. “Fortunately, we were still able to come up with some money [last year] to donate to the university to help with student expenses, who were having problems during the pandemic.”

It is estimated that Oyster Bake generates about $500,000 for the university in terms of scholarships and program funding. Last spring, the financial difference caused by canceling Oyster Bake was made up in large part by the St. Mary’s University Alumni Association, offering financial assistance to those adversely affected by the pandemic in the form of the Rattler Impact Scholarship. The university’s vendors were aso able to recover losses and understood the prioritizations of public health over reopening.

A year ago, COVID-19 was still not completely understood and no vaccine was commercially available, this led to widespread event cancellations. As the city of San Antonio continues to monitor the situation, all signs are pointing to the hopeful return of Oyster Bake in 2022.

“We’re going to come back big, believe me,” concluded Martinez.

Financial efficacy: learning how to budget better this spring MEGAN ANGELO STAFF WRITER

A new year means a new semester and a chance to press reset on spending routines and break some bad habits. A huge adjustment to college life is being a young adult in charge of maintaining finances.

During the pandemic, food delivery services like Uber Eats and Amazon rose in popularity to minimize the risks of being exposed to COVID-19 from dining and shopping in-person. However, students may not realize how easily bad spending habits can be formed because of the seamless convenience these businesses bring. Here are some tips to make amends and budget better this semester.

1. Cancel Unused Subscriptions After the holidays, spending habits can run away unchecked. So, as the new year begins, scan bank statements to verify which subscriptions are still being paid for and are going unused. Tiny fees add up over time.

If Disney+ is not getting much use, canceling it will save about $8 per month, once the price increases on March 26. Take time to evaluate and prioritize desired subscriptions. For example, most students agree that the Spotify Premium and Hulu student bundle is a college essential.

2. Close Bookstore Account Students around campus rave about the infamous “bookstore refund” that the university returns to students. This refund can only be attained if the student balance is

at $0. Whether that refund of $650 is issued towards tuition or used to boost savings, it is going somewhere useful. Look into closing the bookstore account through the Business Office to check eligibility.

3.

Save Money by Buying Textbooks Elsewhere The Barnes and Noble Bookstore can get pricey when it comes to textbooks and school supplies. Finding cheaper alternatives or buying through discount retailers can help cut costs. Buying or renting books with a credit card can allow for credit to be built while paying a portion off at a time. Another alternative is checking the Blume Library catalog for any textbooks or searching online for affordable digital versions of the text. There are many sites that offer an online companion for textbooks.

4. Open a Credit Card On the topic of credit cards, opening a line of credit as a college student can be incredibly beneficial for the foreseeable future.

Building credit while in school isn’t talked about enough. Signing up for a credit card can allow for larger spending budgets w h e n necessary and student cards Graphic by Demi Bestor often give better rewards or cashback than normal credit cards. Credit Karma is a useful site to view credit scores for free and for credit card

recommendations. Chase, Discover, Bank will not only decrease the number of classes of America and Wells Fargo are among needed per semester but will decrease some of the most popular student credit tuition balance. card lenders. Most banks will offer 0% APR, 7. Create a Monthly Food Budget but the duration varies. Each card’s benefits Whether students are living on or offwill appeal to different people. Ask a friend campus, many will want to conserve their or family member to be a reference when dining dollars to make them last throughout applying for added bonuses. the semester. Create a grocery Be very attentive to due list of items that are easy dates, it is crucial to make to make in or outside a payments on time. Never dorm (or take advantage overspend on something that of the kitchens most dorms is unable to be repaid in the offer) and make a monthly next month. budget out of it. Keeping 5. Open a Savings receipts can also help track Account spending habits. Before Now that there is an making that next trip to opportunity to save, what the grocery store, evaluate better time to open a savings what meals or snacks were account? Many students are made and what foods were work-studies or have offeaten. Having something campus jobs and can build other than Chick-fil-A and up their savings if they have Subway on the weekends an account. Setting small and skipping that morning Graphic by Anna Davila but attainable saving goals Starbucks for some in-dorm can allow for savings to grow. The biggest coffee will surprisingly help decrease daily advantage to this is that the deposited use of dining dollars. amounts accumulate interest over time, This new year, it will be difficult to meaning that saving money in a savings adjust to new habits after having had a fully account increases potential earnings. online semester. Cutting back, especially 6. CLEP Exams after the holidays, can be hard but these Save on class fees by taking College things take time. Friends can also keep each Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams other accountable when it comes to other through the university to bypass taking leisurely spending habits such as eating out introductory courses. Be sure to check St. or seeking some retail therapy. It is nearly Mary’s website for information on which springtime after all! Enjoy the beautiful courses can be replaced with CLEP credit. weather and visit a farmer’s market instead Some eligible credits include English, of hitting up the mall. Hopefully, these tips Foreign Language, Math and Science. can be incorporated by fellow Rattlers to Replacing these courses with CLEP credits benefit students’ health, mind, and wallet.

LIFESTYLE 11

FEB. 11, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Back on campus, St. Mary’s students reflect on student life

These friendships span across multiple backgrounds and locations.

“Now I have friends from El Salvador, Bolivia and from here, but it’s good; I like to know new people,” added Campos.

Davila and Campos are thankful to their friends for easing the transition to life as residential students. Adjustment to life as a dorm resident is not limited to a room filled with necessities, but also includes aspects of social life and general balance. Both are easily found by returning to the campus, and through the simplest or most coincidental of

MORGAN KUCHTA STAFF WRITER

Over the past month, St. Mary’s campus has become noticeably fuller and livelier.

More students have made the choice to move on campus for the spring semester; a decision made with both caution and excitement. This growth is also thanks to the relative success of the university and students during the fall semester in handling COVID-19 cases. With a great system in place to track the number of positive cases and by providing free COVID-19 testing for the campus community until May 15, St. Mary’s has taken deliberate steps to maintain and facilitate campus safety.

In fact, for Anna Davila, a freshman marketing major, the safety efforts of St. Mary’s University were an important factor in her decision to move on campus.

“I was not able to live on campus last semester because… my parents were not fully comfortable. … But the way that St. Mary’s has handled living on campus [during the fall] was a huge reason as to why I decided to come up [for the spring],” said Davila.

Other freshmen such as Brissa Campos, international and global studies major, also expressed similar concerns.

“It was a really tough decision for my family and also me leaving Peru, but then when I was moving here, I realized it was my dream,” said Campos.

There are several ways students are benefiting from a return to the university.

No longer isolated, students appear happier

Students continue to social distance in the commons.| Photo Courtesy of St. Mary’s Facebook Page

and life on campus returns to a pleasant pace again. Both Davila and Campos find that their adjustment to dorm life has been relatively easy because the move provided a different kind of structure they really needed.

“I really like to manage my own schedule and decide what I want to do [and] when I want to do it,” said Campos.

“I am really comfortable in my living situation and the way that life runs here on campus. … I’ve already created a routine of my own that has helped me do school in a productive and motivating environment,” said Davila.

Davila also finds that staying engaged with the community is much easier now

that she is living on campus and believes her stronger connections are a direct result of her move to the university. Whether it be study groups with friends or virtual zoom events, she can confidently say she has seen a positive change in herself.

“I have gained more confidence in reaching out and involving myself. … [I especially want] to make up for lost time because I definitely felt disconnected from the school last semester,” added Davila.

“As of now, I have already joined a few organizations and have made an effort to attend as many virtual events as I can.”

Students are forging stronger connections with people they normally would not connect with while in Zoom classes.

“

“Now I have friends from El Salvador, Bolivia and from here, but it’s good; I like to know new people.”

Brissa Campos freshman international and global studies major

social interactions, students greatly benefit.

By providing opportunities for longmissed interactions and maintaining physical wellness, St. Mary’s is taking great strides to overcome the effects of the pandemic. The steps being taken by both the university and students are working to consciously prevent large outbreaks and return to regular life. With the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccine, there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel. As new resident students are transitioning to dorm life, St. Mary’s begins its transition towards a “normal” semester.

Save money on college courses with different credit options classes that interest them.

2. Students should also consider taking the College Level Examination Program A common struggle that college students (CLEP) exams. Like AP, the CLEP is face is making the most out of their time offered by the College Board and offers and money while attending university. At St. 34 exams that cover introductory level Mary’s University, the undergraduate tuition college material. Students can take exams in for a full-time student taking between 12 to 18 subjects such as Business, Composition and credit hours is $16,350 per semester during Literature, Foreign Languages, History and the 2020-2021 academic year. Each year Social Science, Science and Mathematics the cost of tuition increases.

– typical academic requirements for any On top of a student’s major. CLEP exams cost $89 and military personal finances, they service members can take them for free. may wonder if there is Additionally, Modern States, an a way to save time and online CLEP readiness course, money while finishing is currently offering free their degree. Students can vouchers to take CLEP look to transfer credits as a exams through way of getting ahead while June 30. Students simultaneously saving money. interested in taking Here is key information for a CLEP exam should each type of transfer credit. speak with an academic 1. First-year students advisor first for more should check to see if their guidance. CLEP exams can credits have been transferred be administrated through from Advanced Placement the Student Psychological (AP) or International and Testing Services Baccalaureate (IB) exams. department, with a payment One way to check is of $20, either cash or check. Students by going to Gateway, cannot repeat exams until Graphic by Demi Bestor Graduation Planning after three months if they did System (GPS), and checking if any class not receive the score they expected, so requirements have been met by transfer plan accordingly. credits. AP and IB credits can fulfill core 3. Certain courses can be taken at a requirements or degree requirements community college and transferred for depending on the type of exam. AP and credit at St. Mary’s. According to Student IB credits give students a fast pass to avoid Loan Hero, Inc., community colleges are taking introductory college courses which another affordable way to earn college credit saves invaluable time and allows students for those who prefer a traditional college more time to focus on their major and take course over self-learning. A course at a COURTNEY PENA STAFF WRITER

local community college typically costs around $155 per credit hour. By taking community college classes during summer break, students will not only be able to earn credits faster but also at a cheaper cost than taking a summer class at St. Mary’s which costs $1,010 per credit hour. A form for permission to take a course and be eligible for credit must be submitted to the registrar prior to taking a class at another college. This form, entitled “Permission to Take Courses for Transfer Credit Form” can be found on Gateway for St. Mary’s students.

4. St. Mary’s also accepts credit from the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) Program.

D A N T E S standardized tests have 38 subjects to choose from including topics such as Business, Humanities, Mathematics, Physical Science, Social Science and Technology.

In the past, D A N T E S exams were only available for active military, but their availability has been expanded to include civilians.

5.

Lastly, St. Mary’s a c c e p t s departmental examinations. If a Graphic by Ivan Briones student believes that they are proficient in a course for which no exam is regularly offered, they can take a departmental examination. With approval from the Dean of the School and the Department Chairperson who teaches the course, testing arrangements can be made. The only fee is $20 per semester hour, but this fee is subject to change at any time.

For more information on AP, IB, CLEP, DANTES, and departmental examinations, visit the university website.

By electing to take these options, students can enjoy a quicker and thriftier experience at St. Mary’s, giving them more flexibility and financial freedom.

12 ENTERTAINMENT

EDITOR: JACOB A. HENSON | @STMURATTLERNEWS | FEB. 11, 2021

Emperor Sons band members, Alejandro Beltran Del Rio and Adrian De La Garza, capture the crowd with their award winning 2019 Battle of the Bands performance. | Photo courtesy of St. Mary’s University

Battle of the Bands is canceled for the second year in a row MARTIN A. JIMENEZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER

In a combined effort from administration, the University Programming Council and student input, the fate of Battle of the Bands has been decided. As with other in-person programming at St. Mary’s University, Battle of the Bands has been canceled due to COVID-19 safety restrictions.

Zyania Seijas, senior finance and risk management and UPC President, stated that she is disappointed Battle of the Bands has been canceled. One of the biggest incentives in hosting Battle of the Bands is choosing the winner to play on stage at Fiesta Oyster Bake. However, since Oyster Bake has been canceled as well, the lack of an Oyster Bake performance would make it more difficult to incentivize the program.

In turn, the undertaking of Battle of the Bands was no small feat. Seijas has stated, that because of the intricacies which are

involved in creating this program, UPC created a student-led position to facilitate all the pieces of Battle of the Bands. One of the responsibilities for this position

“

Cancellation of Battle of the Bands is a little of a heartbreak especially when all you want to do is jam out on a stage with your friends.”

Adrian De La Garza senior finance and risk management major

includes contacting outside vendors for specific equipment that the university does not have, such as outdoor lighting, flooring, and speakers for a larger crowd. The thirdparty contractor that UPC uses for the outside set up has traditionally been JPS Entertainment, Inc. Sadly, they were not contracted this year.

According to Seijas, arrangements for

Battle of the Bands began at the beginning of January. Due to early safety conversations by UPC and administration, no preparations were made for Battle of the Bands, nor was a setlist created for the event. UPC has not created any other in-person events to replace Battle of the Bands.

The cancellation news has hit some students pretty hard, especially Adrien De La Garza, senior finance and risk management major and previous Battle of the Bands winner.

“Cancellation of Battle of the Bands is a little of a heartbreak especially when all you want to do is jam out on a stage with your friends,” De La Garza said. “My group and I (Emperor Sons) were actually talking beginning of last semester with the hope of one last Battle of the Bands before I graduated, and as much as we knew that COVID was still very much a thing, we still had our hopes up. We even had talks about what songs we would like to do this

time around. I know that just because it was canceled this year it does not mean that our run was one and done. We would love to come back as [alumni] and maybe take the win again.”

Seijas said that although they have not created any events to replace Battle of the Bands, they will resume with their online Zoom model for programming. The reason they have not created another inperson event comes from an administrative decision. Administration at St. Mary’s University has told UPC that they are to create online programming through March until further notice, according to Seijas.

Additionally, Seijas remains hopeful that students will find their upcoming programming more engaging. She finished her statement by explaining that UPC is consistently creating innovative ways to program online. Until next year’s Battle of the Bands, UPC has virtual Zoom programs happening four times every week.

UPC virtual events strengthen sense of community for students MONSERRAT GARCIA STAFF WRITER

It has been nearly one year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and some communities still struggle to adapt to the virtual environment. While some people reminisce about the past others brainstorm on how to keep their social life alive.

Now that the virtual environment is the new norm, the St. Mary’s community has found means to not only adapt but succeed when faced with obstacles and adversity. The University Programming Council has been organizing and hosting virtual events open to all St. Mary’s students wherever they may be.

“Until San Antonio numbers drop significantly, we will do a mixture of virtual and grab-and-go events,” said UPC president Zyania Seijas.

“

But as I kept joining the events, I felt welcomed and accepted by everyone who attended.

After attending my first event, I enjoyed it so much that I consecutively assisted the events that followed.”

Brissa Campos freshman international and global studies major

This indicates that at least for the spring of 2021, the majority of UPC’s events will be held virtually.

“While students who attend our events truly enjoy them, it has become increasingly

organizations around campus! Not only UPC is planning events, and the whole St. Mary’s community wants to see you enjoy your time here! Join our events and you will meet great people!”

Campos sends peace to fellow students interested in UPC’s virtual events. | Photo by Brissa Campos

difficult to keep students engaged and attending events. I believe students are Zoomed out and have a harder time enjoying virtual events,” Seija said about student engagement in the virtual environment.

Seija said she advises and encourages students who feel isolated and stranded to, “work towards getting out of their comfort zone and engaging in activities and

Last semester Brissa Campos, freshman international and global studies major, began her first semester at St. Mary’s five thousand miles away from San Antonio. Thanks to the inclusion from campus organizations and the advancement of technology, she was able to attend virtual events hosted by the university. This allowed Campos to feel a sense of community engagement right from

her home in Lima, Peru.

“I first saw the promotion of the UPC’s events via email and I did not want to attend at the beginning because I was afraid that there would be many people,” Campos said. “But as I kept joining the events, I felt welcomed and accepted by everyone who attended. After attending my first event, I enjoyed it so much that I consecutively assisted the events that followed.”

Campos’ said her biggest struggle in regard to the virtual environment and community engagement was distance.

“When I found out I was admitted into St. Mary’s, I was more than thrilled,” Campos said. “But then COVID hit and moving to campus was not an option, which made me long for the day when I could be on campus.

Attending the UPC and other campus organizations’ events, I felt a connection with the community even though I was thousands of miles away from San Antonio.”

St. Mary’s mission to educate for adaptation and change is a vital resource for organizations like UPC because it allows students like Campos to have the closest experience to a normal first year of college as possible. Campos has moved to campus for the spring semester, and now that the distance issue is resolved, she is excited to continue her virtual engagement with UPC events and friends.

FEB. 11, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

ENTERTAINMENT 13

Here are six releases that were missed over the winter break LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA SPORTS EDITOR

Welcome back Rattlers, here are six releases from the winter break that are worth Rattler rating. (All images are courtesy of their respective companies.)

After a long hiatus from the screen, Marvel Studios has returned with its latest hit “Wandavision,” a weekly episodic sitcom with heavy mystery elements. The shortform episodes paint a picture using complex and deep storytelling following the titular characters Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany) who are now living in a seemingly perfect sitcom life following the events of “Avengers Endgame.”

Comic book fans will appreciate the long-overdue adaptation of “House of M,” an infamous and beloved comic book story arc from which the show draws many of its themes and ideas. Note that the show is technically the first part of a trilogy within the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the next two movie parts being the untitled “Spiderman 3” and “Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness.” Much remains to be seen about the conclusion of the show, but “Wandavision” certainly kicks off phase four in a marvelous fashion.

Children’s films rarely grapple with

deep themes and complex existential ideas such as life, death and meaning, unless it’s a Disney Pixar film — which “Soul” is. The animated film breaks the mold by grappling with profound philosophies and scoring colorfully against a memorable soundtrack.

The lead character, Joe Gardner (Jamie Foxx) plays a spirited jazz musician and middle school teacher. “22” (Tina Fey) is a lost soul who is not ready for life and accompanies Joe on his journey.

The film is nothing short of thoughtprovoking, posing themes and questions that may be lost on its target audience and perhaps even on their parents. It is a movie that people need to see for themselves to wonder whether they are “feeling the rain or just simply getting wet.”

“Wonder Woman 1984” is unfortunately not as good as its predecessor. Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) is set in the 1980s where she squares off with Maxwell Lord (Pedro Pascal) who becomes a genie of sorts and the primary villain of the story. The film lacks the energy that is associated with the ‘80s, as shown heavily in promotional material, and instead possesses an uninspired story to tag along. Even the other villain Cheetara/Barbara Minerva (Kristin Wiig) has unsatisfying arcs and in one scene suffers from the common filmmaking trope of creating bad and dark lighting to mask flawed computer generated-imagery (CGI).

DC Comics fans might be worried about the DC Cinematic Universe’s direction moving forward. If this movie is any indicator, they might all be unsuccessful one-offs. Thankfully, with the long-awaited release of the “Snyder Cut,” an infamous and mysterious director’s cut of “Justice League,”

DC may see a resurgence of popularity on the horizon and might finally find its groove.

“Hillbilly Elegy” is a wistful movie that tells the story of “JD Vance” (Gabriel Basso and Owen Asztalos) in his youth. Based on the bestselling memoir of the same name, the film takes the audience on a journey into a golden and dreamy painting of Appalachia where JD must come back home to deal with a family crisis after fighting his way into Yale Law school.

The film is ultimately a story of coming to terms with who you are and where you come from. Vance’s mother Bev (Amy Adams) is astonishing as one of Adams’ best performances yet, evoking tears at multiple points during the film. Mamaw (Glenn Close), Vance’s grandma, delivers another excellent performance that Close is known for. All of the actors mentioned, particularly Adams should be in consideration come awards season.

This movie may be a toss-up, but for the audience its story is nothing short of relatable for many. Its bootstrap mentality however might feel too Hollywood, despite being an entirely true story. It is the kind of movie a viewer will either enjoy or dislike.

The Sound of Metal is a masterclass film in sound design by showing the story to the audience rather than telling them. The film

follows a metal drummer and former addict Ruben (Riz Ahmed) who finds himself suddenly deaf one night after a gig. After relapsing, he is told he will only become deafer and is soon checked into a sober community where he must learn how to live with himself and learn how to live a deaf life.

The film uses creative sound mixing, and does its best to place viewers in Ruben’s shoes as he loses his hearing. Ahmed plays the character so well as he shows the emotion and uncertainty of someone watching their life fall apart around them.

The most powerful moments of the film come when the sound is muted, occasionally being entirely silent. One particular scene involving a slide is heartwarming and powerful all the same.

“Man on the Mood III: The Chosen” is the conclusion to Kid Cudi’s series of albums that tell the story of his battle with mental illness, unrequited love, loneliness, and substance abuse. Previous albums were powerful and resonated with fans, but this album is not as strong. The songs sound just like what listeners would expect from Cudi: psychedelic beats, trippy sequences, and interesting vocal techniques.

One of the album’s strengths is that all of the songs seamlessly flow into one another in a symphonic way. There are some creative samples like in, “She Knows This,” but it’s kind of quirky: “Scott, let me go/ Don’t give ‘em the satisfaction/ What if I want the satisfaction?” It’s as if the album seems to be stuck between styles: psychedelic style and head-banger style. Cudi does well in taking the audience along for one last trip, excelling in having his trilogy comes to a triumphant end for many beloved fans.

Round up boots and a mask for the COVID-regulated rodeo ADRIANNA MIRABAL CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo is a staple among residents and visitors of the countdown city. The event allows people to experience a night of authentic Texan culture filled with rodeo events and performances by country artists, and will be taking place with new COVID-19 regulations in place this year.

The rodeo will be returning to its roots at the Freeman Coliseum in order to reduce capacity to 3,800 attendees, instead of the usual 19,000 at the AT&T Center.

In due homage to its past, vintage rodeo advertisements and wooden cattle chutes will decorate the arena. Videos of the late and famous Western film and country music stars, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, performers at the 1961 Rodeo, will also be shown in the arena. Patrons who purchase a ticket will be given a reserved seat within a pod inside the Freeman Coliseum.

According to the official San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo website, there are

plenty of precautions and helpful tips on preparing for this year’s event. Unlike previous years, there will not be fairgrounds or a carnival for 2021. In turn, the website features extensive information regarding safety measures, such as wearing a face mask over both nose and mouth at all times unless eating or drinking and initial entry temperature screening. Do note that masks are required for all people above the age of four, and anyone with a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher will be asked to leave. Social distancing measures will also be guided by signage and ground markings to avoid large group gatherings.

To ensure additional safety precautions at the event, Synexis Biodefense systems will be installed in areas such as the Auction Barn, Dairy Center, Rodeo Contestant Hospitality and International Rooms which will aid in clearing the presence of microorganisms.

Additionally, the Freeman Coliseum will have a dust-free active air purification system in all heating, ventilation and air conditioning units to cleanse the air with its ionic oxidation technology.

The Rodeo’s lineup of entertaining artists has also been reduced and it seems not as many big names are on the list in comparison to years prior. Senior political science major, Angela Perez, shared her experience from the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo in 2019 and how it differs from this year’s upcoming event.

“I saw Brad Paisley that year, and he is an amazing entertainer and long-standing country artist. I paid a good amount of money for two tickets to his show. I think that the cost is high for the unestablished artists of this year’s show, and unless you really love that artist, save your money and spend it somewhere else.”

However, many popular artists like Lorrie Morgan, Aaron Watson, and Kevin Fowler will perform, among others such as, Asleep at the Wheel, Roger Creager, Ned LeDoux, Randall King, T.G. Sheppard, Little Texas, Kolby Cooper, Back in Black AC/DC Tribute,

Johnny Lee & the Urban Cowboy Band, Shane Smith & The Saints, Jason Boland & the Stragglers, Muscadine Bloodline and The Atomic Punks: the Tribute to Early Van Halen. Ticket prices for these various artists range from $60 to $150 depending on the artist and preferred seating.

The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo is scheduled from Feb. 12-28. Make sure to purchase your tickets online at sarodeo.com or ticketmaster.com, and get ready to wear your best boots and matching mask.

Graphic by Jacob A. Henson

14 EN ESPAÑOL

EDITORA: SAMANTHA RUVALCABA |@STMURATTLERNEWS | FEB. 11, 2021

El evento más grande de la primavera cancelado una vez más debido a Covid-19 La Asociación de Antiguos Alumnos de la Universidad de St. Mary’s anunció la cancelación de Fiesta Oyster Bake 2021 debido al incremento de casos de COVID-19 en San Antonio. Este es el segundo año que el evento anual, celebrado en primavera, se cancela como resultado de la pandemia de coronavirus.

“Me entristece anunciar que estamos cancelando Fiesta Oyster Bake 2021 debido al número sustancial de casos de COVID-19 en nuestra región,” dijo el presidente de la asociación Joe Vela Jr., en el comunicado de la asociación.

El director ejecutivo de relaciones de alumnos graduados de la universidad, Pete Hansen, dijo que la asociación se reunió con el comité de Fiestas de San Antonio y el profesor de cirugía Johns Hopkins, Martin “Marty” Makary, durante meses antes de anunciar la decisión el 22 de enero.

La comisión de Fiesta y la ciudad anunciaron conjuntamente el 1 de febrero que Fiesta se pospondrá hasta junio 17-27.

Sin embargo, dada la falta de presencia de estudiantes en el campus durante el verano y el dinero invertido en entretenimiento para el evento, Hansen dijo que los

“

Lo principal era la seguridad.

Queríamos asegurarnos de que nuestro campus estuviera a salvo, protegiendo a todos. No nos sentimos cómodos tratando de organizarlo en junio y que luego no suceda.”

Pete Hansen director ejecutivo de relaciones de alumnos graduados

organizadores del evento no consideraron que el aplazamiento “valga la pena el riesgo.”

“Lo principal era la seguridad.

Queríamos asegurarnos de que nuestro campus estuviera a salvo, protegiendo a todos. No nos sentimos cómodos tratando de organizarlo en junio y que luego no suceda,” dijo Hansen.

“Como parte de la cuidadosa respuesta de la Universidad a la pandemia, hemos pedido a todos los miembros de la comunidad del campus que se cuiden unos a otros como

Alumnos de apoyar nuestro compromiso de proteger la salud pública adaptando los planes de Fiesta Oyster Bake de este año.”

Fiesta Oyster Bake es la recaudación de fondos más grande de la asociación, atrayendo entre 60,000 y 70,000 personas, y generando un estimado d e $500,000 para becas

Gráfica por Demi Bestor

SAMANTHA RUVALCABA/ SOFIA RUESCAS EDITORA DIRECTORA/ GERENTE DE PUBLICIDAD

familia y nos comprometamos a tomar todas las medidas necesarias para protegerse a sí mismos y a la comunidad de San Antonio en la que vivimos, estudiamos y trabajamos,” dijo el presidente de la universidad Thomas Mengler. “Agradecemos enormemente la decisión de la Asociación de Antiguos

y programas anualmente. La dotación de becas de la asociación ayuda actualmente a 70 estudiantes.

“Cancelar el evento nos perjudica al no poder poner dinero en la dotación,” dijo Hansen. “Hemos sido bendecidos por tener los recursos para poder soportar

dos Oyster Bakes seguidos cancelados, pero definitivamente no queremos

“

Definitivamente las cosas deberían estar mucho mejor en la primavera de 2022. ... Todavía tendremos nuestros procesos habituales, trabajando con el Departamento de Salud de la Ciudad de San Antonio y tendremos que monitorear lo que está pasando en la comunidad.”

Pete Hansen director ejecutivo de relaciones de alumnos graduados perdernos más.”

Incluso sin los ingresos anuales de Oyster Bake, Hansen dijo que la asociación seguirá siendo capaz de apoyar a los estudiantes a través de la dotación de becas.

“Ayudamos al campus este verano pasado, haciendo una donación de $600,000 para ayudar al fondo estudiantil, y ayudamos a la universidad en algunos déficits creados por el COVID-19,” agregó Hansen.

Hansen dijo que la asociación planea continuar con sus esfuerzos por recaudar fondos este año por otros medios, incluyendo un torneo de golf en mayo, una gala en el otoño, y un sorteo de boletos de rifa. Fiesta Oyster Bake está programado para el 1 y 2 de abril del próximo año.

“Definitivamente las cosas deberían estar mucho mejor en la primavera de 2022,” dijo Hansen.

“Todavía tendremos nuestros procesos habituales, trabajando con el Departamento de Salud de la Ciudad de San Antonio y tendremos que monitorear lo que está pasando en la comunidad. Por lo tanto, nos sentimos cómodos por tener la capacidad de hacer ajustes en el plan de seguridad.”

EN ESPAÑOL 15

FEB. 11, 2021 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

Lo que hay de saber sobre los acciones en inmigración del presidente Biden SAMANTHA RUVALCABA EDITORA DIRECTORA

En su primer día de presidencia, Joe Biden firmó una serie de acciones ejecutivas.

Algunas de estas acciones podrían revertir las medidas de inmigración del gobierno de Donald Trump. Aquí están las principales órdenes ejecutivas y cambios en inmigración que Biden ha introducido en su primer día como presidente.

Deportaciones Esta orden revierte la orden ejecutiva del expresidente Trump que criminaliza la presencia de indocumentados en los Estados Unidos. La Orden Ejecutiva 13768 firmada por Trump en enero 2017 estableció nuevas prioridades de deportación y decretó.

“

También debemos adherirnos al debido proceso legal al salvaguardar la dignidad y el bienestar de todas las familias y comunidades. Mi Administración restablecerá las políticas y prácticas para hacer cumplir las leyes de inmigración civil para alinear el cumplimiento con estos valores y prioridades.”

Joe Biden presidente de EEUU

“La política de mi Administración es proteger la seguridad nacional y fronteriza,

abordar los desafíos humanitarios en la frontera sur y garantizar la salud y la seguridad públicas’,’ declaró Biden en la orden. “También debemos adherirnos al debido proceso legal al salvaguardar la dignidad y el bienestar de todas las familias y comunidades. Mi Administración restablecerá las políticas y prácticas para hacer cumplir las leyes de inmigración civil para alinear el cumplimiento con estos valores y prioridades.”

La revocación de esta orden brinda la oportunidad a los inmigrantes indocumentados que no han cometido delitos de seguir luchando por la residencia legal.

DACA Esta orden solicita al secretario de Seguridad Nacional que en consulta con el Fiscal General, haga lo necesario para preservar y fortalecer el programa de acción que protege a los jóvenes inmigrantes.

Censo Ordena que el censo también incluya a los inmigrantes indocumentados en su conteo. El expresidente Trump declaró un memorando el 21 de julio de 2020 pidiendo a excluir a los indocumentados del total de población.

Muro fronterizo Obliga detener la construcción del muro fronterizo, anulando la declaración nacional de emergencia en la frontera que Trump emitió en febrero del 2019 para desviar fondos del Departamento de Defensa para la construcción del muro.

Veto migratorio Elimina el veto que restringe la entrada de ciudadanos de ciertos países de mayoría musulmana, africanas y otras. Por ejemplo,

Siria, Yemen, Burma, Irak, Nigeria, Corea del Norte, Libia, Tanzania, y más. También pide revisar las aplicaciones de visas que fueron rechazadas debido a las medidas tomadas durante el gobierno de Trump.

Liberianos Expande el programa DED (Deferred Enforced Departure) hasta el 30 de junio de 2022 protegiendo a los ciudadanos de Liberia incluidos de deportación.

El presidente firmó tres órdenes nuevas el 2 de febrero, antes de la juramentación del primer latino secretario de Seguridad Nacional, Alejandro Mayorkas.

Reunificación Las nuevas órdenes incluyen crear una comisión dedicada a localizar y reunir a los menores de edad que fueron separados de sus padres en la frontera durante la presidencia de Trump.

Asilo En otra orden, la Casa Blanca declaró que Mayorkas revisará el Programa de Protección al Migrante (MPP).

“La situación en la frontera no se transformará de la noche a la mañana, debido en gran parte al daño causado durante los últimos cuatro años. Pero el presidente está comprometido con un enfoque que mantiene a nuestro país seguro, fuerte y próspero y que también se alinea con nuestros valores,” enunció la declaración de la Casa Blanca.

Naturalización La última orden se enfoca en el sistema de inmigracion en los EEUU

con el objetivo de hacer una revisión completa y “eliminar las barreras y mejorar de otro modo el proceso de naturalización existente.”

También rescinde un memorando del gobierno de Trump que exige que los patrocinadores familiares reembolsen al gobierno si los familiares reciben beneficios públicos.

Esta orden también incluye la revisión de la regla de carga pública del gobierno de Trump que fue aprobada por el Tribunal de Apelaciones de los Estados Unidos del Segundo Circuito por implementación en septiembre de 2020. La regla dice que las aplicaciones de unos inmigrantes incluyendo los que deseen buscar permanente residencia legal podría ser rechazado si la persona recibe beneficios públicos por más de 12 meses dentro de cualquier periodo de 36 meses durante el proceso de su aplicación.

Gráficas por Sara Regassa

Estudiante publica libro para niños durante la cuarentena SAMANTHA RUVALCABA EDITORA DIRECTORA

La estudiante junior de ciencias ambientales Midori Flores nunca imaginó llevar a cabo la idea de su primer libro y convertirse en autora publicada a la edad de 21 años. Pero todo cambió el 30 de noviembre cuando su libro “We Are All Human” se hizo ampliamente disponible en un esfuerzo por enseñar a los niños sobre la igualdad.

Aunque sus estudios se encuentran en el campo de las ciencias, Flores comenzó a escribir creativamente después de su primer año en la universidad. La idea de escribir un libro para las generaciones futuras se le ocurrió al principio de su escritura, pero dejó la idea a un lado pensando que no sería posible tan temprano en su escritura.

Flores dijo que años después, durante el primer bloqueo emitido para evitar la propagación del COVID-19, Flores se encontró conversando con su hermana sobre la introducción de la diversidad a sus hijas.

Flores recordó la idea de su libro original que podría servir como una introducción a diversos orígenes, incluida la raza, LGBTQ, religión, problemas de aprendizaje y clase socioeconómica.

Después de decidirse a hacerlo, Flores comenzó a escribir la historia y a buscar un ilustrador, a quien más tarde encontró a través de un amigo de la familia. Para contratar a la ilustradora Patricia Riojas, creó una recaudación de fondos de

GoFundMe en julio de 2020 y recaudó manera de que ellos simplemente aprecian un total de $900. Los dos se reunieron que todos somos humanos sin importar con frecuencia para aportar arte a la nuestras diferencias, ya sea a quienes historia. Luego, Flores utilizó la empresa amamos, en qué creemos, a quién nos de autoedición en línea IngramSpark para gusta o cómo nos vemos,” dijo Flores. armar todo.

“Y que también pueden ser quienes “Todo comenzó a suceder y pude obtener quieran, y eso es aceptable porque todos mis propias copias una vez que todo se somos humanos.” solidificó con En enero IngramSpark. de este año, … Fue un Flores visitó proceso, a su hermana pero todo ha que acababa de funcionado recibir su primera muy bien,” copia del libro. dijo Flores.

Su hermana les El libro leyó el libro a sigue la vida las sobrinas de de un niño Flores, quienes al que se participaron conoce como en la nueva “Bebé,” que información que se encuentra se les presentaba con varias en forma de personas con cuentos. antecedentes “Al final, hay diversos un eslogan que se mientras repite en mi libro, crece. A lo ese también es largo de su Midori Flores con su libro.| Foto por Samantha Ruvalcaba el título: ‘Todos historia, Bebé somos humanos.’ le pregunta a su madre si las diferencias que Y al final, mi hermana dijo: ‘¿Todos somos ve en los demás están bien. Su madre afirma qué?’ Y sus hijas dijeron, ‘¡humanos!’ Fue que están con el repetido mensaje de “Todos realmente surrealista para mí ver eso,” somos humanos.” dijo Flores. “[El libro es] definitivamente una En la dedicación de su libro, Flores

agradece su systema de apoyo, incluida su madre que la ayudó en la creación del libro.

Termina la dedicatoria con un mensaje para sus lectores escribiendo: “Que todos continuemos difundiendo el mensaje de igualdad, por el cual nunca lograremos la paz mundial hasta que logremos la igualdad.”

Flores dijo que su escritura no se limita a un solo género. Actualmente está trabajando en un thriller de terror y un libro de poesía.

“Siempre quise ser un autor publicado, pero en realidad nunca me imaginé haciéndolo,” dijo Flores. “Así que es realmente surrealista. Y quiero seguir escribiendo más, ahora con el objetivo de publicar más libros.”

“We Are All Human” está disponible en el sitio web de Flores www.midoriflores. com y en los sitios web de Barnes and Noble y Amazon.

El libro también se puede encontrar en The Twig Book Shop ubicada en Pearl Brewery, donde Flores tendrá un evento de firma de libros el 21 de febrero de 10 a.m. a 12 p.m.

Este febrero será el primer mes de la historia afroamericana después del lanzamiento del libro de Flores. Ella espera que pueda servir como material de lectura educativo para los niños durante los meses de celebración cultural y durante todo el año. “[Los niños] están entrando en un mundo en el que todos son más conscientes de estas diferencias y las aceptan más”, dijo Flores.

16 SPORTS

EDITOR: LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA | @STMURATTLERNEWS | FEB 11, 2021

Athletic department resumes spring season of competition LARRY RODRIGUEZ-SHEA, AMANDA SWAN, OMAR HERRERA-MIRAMONTES

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new season The baseball team is a well-oiled machine, ready to win even in the time of a global pandemic. Players have been preparing and training during this time and are eager to earn some wins. The St. Mary’s baseball team is ranked third in their conference.

The team is currently sitting with a record of 4-2 overall and 2-1 in conference. The previous conference game on Feb. 5 against Oklahoma Christian University was a nailbiter. The Rattlers were in the ninth inning down five runs and were trying to make a comeback. In that very instant, redshirt senior Mitchell Caskey singled to right field, two RBIs; senior Fernando Zubia advanced to third where redshirt senior Scott Short and then graduate student Derek Mueller scored making the game 13-16. Following that score, graduate student Johnny Hernandez reached on a fielding error by causing Caskey to advance to second, helping Zubia score, making the game 1416. Unfortunately, that was the final run of the game. This season every game matters, especially since the Rattlers are trying to win a championship. The Rattlers won against Oklahoma Christian University on Feb. 2 and are scheduled to play Lubbock Christian University (Texas), Angelo State University and Texas A&M International University, among others.

The St. Mary’s softball team is ready to face the challenges ahead of them. The women’s team is ranked ninth in the lone star conference and are ready to prove themselves. On Feb. 4, they played two exhibition games against Texas Lutheran University, winning one out of the two. They officially start the season on Feb. 6, with a game against Angelo State University at home. Following that, they will go on to play against Texas A&M University-Kingsville before heading to Arkadelphia, Ark. to play against Maryville University, Henderson State University and Southern Arkansas University. After those games, the team’s journey continues with even more games against tougher competition. Hopefully, the softball team will find themselves in the NCAA tournament by the time the season

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Baseball and Softball: Swinging into a

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The cancellation of sports last fall left Rattler sports fans wondering when they would be able to cheer on their favorite teams again. The decision followed a series of meetings and resulted in an indefinite cancellation due to COVID-19 concerns. After a semester of navigating university athletics during a pandemic, sporting events are beginning to fill up the spring calendar.

Some of the new COVID-19 regulations for the teams include surveillance testing and mandated mask-wearing at all athletic events.

O n e common sentiment appears to be that the C OV I D - 1 9 regulations have only made team bonds stronger and increased their team chemistry.

With all sports slated to play this spring semester, fans will have a lot to keep up with.

is over.

Basketball: Taking it to the Rack Both basketball programs are looking to rebound after missing the playoffs last season. The men’s team finished last season 8-14 in conference play and 12-16 overall.

So far this season, the team is sitting at 2-5 overall. The team is young with 10 players classified as either freshmen or sophomores out of their 19-player roster. Tyler Carron, redshirt freshman business major, plays small forward for the team. He thinks the season is interesting due to the volatility that comes with each game. Regardless, he and the team are hoping to make the conference tournament and win more games.

“Playing during these times is interesting,” Carron said. “You never know what to expect!

One minute you could be preparing your body and mind on game d a y and then the next you can receive news that the game has been canceled.

It is definitely frustrating at times, but at the end of the day it’s the way life is right now.”

The women’s basketball team finds themselves 4-6 overall. Last season the team finished at exactly 500 finishing 14-14. The team is currently led in scoring by senior Hannah Wilson and sophomore Briley Perkins. They find themselves in a similar situation to the men’s team with a younger roster. Both teams have seen many games canceled due to health concerns. In one incident the men’s team was barred from playing while the women’s team was allowed to play. The athletics department has put student’s safety first, providing students with a means to stay safe and healthy while traveling.

“The athletic department has done a great job with making us feel safe,” Carron said. “They have sat us down and asked what we feel comfortable with and let us know what they are trying to accomplish.

Everywhere we go, our athletic department has made sure that it is safe, and we will return just as healthy as we left. When we stay at a hotel, they give us wipes to make sure our room is clean and everything we may come into contact with is clean.”

Golf: Driving into the new season Both golf teams have certainly grown closer during the pandemic. Due to COVID-19 regulations, the team essentially spends all of their time together. Sophomore marketing major Estelle Beck believes that this is the case. She believes overall that comradery has strengthened among the team and that all the hard work will pay off.

“During these times of the pandemic, I feel it has brought our team closer together because we push each other to stay strong through new challenges that arise,” Beck said. “I expect our team to do well this year because of the hard work and long hours that we have been putting in to get better.”

The men’s golf team will have an interesting year. One of their star players, Emilio Gonzalez, graduated last year after having his season cut short due to the pandemic. Last year the team closed out second in the region and eighth in the division. With their first tournament on the horizon, hopefully, the team can continue last year’s success.

Senior mechanical

engineering major Ryan Dixon is ready to get back on the course and compete after a long hiatus from competitive play.

“I am excited to play this year, we have had a long time off from competitive golf and it’s good to be playing tournaments again,” Dixon said.

As with all programs, there are health concerns, however, Beck believes the changes made have been beneficial.

“The athletics department has created new rules to help keep us safe, like wearing masks in the car with other people and changing some rules about tournaments and traveling,” Beck said.

“The athletics department is very serious about keeping us safe and takes every precaution for our best interest and future.

Tennis: Looking to ace the season Both tennis teams are doing very well winning their first matches against St. Thomas University 7-0. Both teams are competing at a high level and hope to earn a spot in the NCAA tournament this May. Senior marketing major Grace Bell believes that the team can reach its goal. She believes playing tennis with a mask on is extra taxing, but Bell and her teammates know it is for the best.

“It has definitely been difficult to adapt to the new rules that have been put in place throughout campus regarding masks,” Bell said. “Having to play matches with a mask on has been taxing on everyone on the team, but we have been able to maintain a positive attitude as long as it means we will be able to compete this year. We have been looking good this far into the season, I see a lot of success for us if we continue to have focused, intense practices.”

The men’s team feels the same.

Sophomore finance and risk management major Sebastian Azcui believes that the teams have grown stronger due to the new rules. Like many other players have said, the added responsibility and accountability forces all of the players to grow closer together.

“Playing during these rough times is very hard, as practice becomes limited and adds extra responsibility,” Azcui said.

“We have to be safe in order to not spread COVID-19 and follow all protocols to be safe. Even though we have to go through this, it makes the team stronger as we work together to keep each other safe, be more responsible and improve our skill on court.

I expect that the team will make conference and hopefully go play nationals in May.” Volleyball: Setting up for success The volleyball team is off to a great start as they are currently undefeated with an overall score of 2-0. Junior Alissa Tolbertand and freshman Julia Aleman lead the team in kills with 30 and 27 respectively.

Senior Catherine C r u z leads the team as defense with 27 digs a n d

Photos Courtesy of Antonio Morano Photography

Tolbert leads with 4 blocks. Aleman is grateful for the opportunity to play this season.

“I feel grateful to be able to have a season this spring given the circumstances and I know the volleyball team wants to make the best out of every practice and game because there’s no knowing what could happen in the future,” Tolbert said. “We play every game like it is our last match because the sad reality is that it could be, so we do our best to live in the moment and stay safe.”

Aleman and the team hope to finish their full season by following the directions and guidelines set forth by the athletics department. She hopes that the mask mandate can ensure that happens.

“The athletics department has made me feel safe by mandating that we wear masks which puts us at less of a risk and increases the chance of us finishing our full, scheduled season,” Aleman said.

Soccer: Kicking into the new season Sports are returning to campus after an almost year-long hold due to COVID-19 restrictions. While some sports returned during the winter break, now that more students are back for the spring semester, the difference has brought life and energy to the campus that signal optimism for a coming change.

Many in the St. Mary’s community are glad to see the return of athletics to campus and it is not rare to see people lined up outside the chain-link fence during soccer practices to watch the action.

“The circumstances may be very different than what I am used to, but I am just grateful to be given the opportunity to play again. Everyone has been working hard and preparing to start up, so now that the time is here, we are all just ready to go,” senior biology major and soccer player Gabriella Olsen said.

Players and staff alike have been working hard to prepare for sports to be introduced back to campus, eager to continue their passion. “We are thankful for the whole staff for working hard and guiding us through this challenging time,” she said.

The men’s team is certainly hoping to continue recent success. Last year, the team fell in a heartbreaker in penalty kicks, in the round of eight in the NCAA tournament to California State University, Los Angeles.

Ultimately California State University, Los Angeles would lose in the championship game. The roster is deep and has many talented players suiting up for the program.

Certainly, the effort by the athletics department has not gone unnoticed. St. Mary’s faculty and staff in all departments and areas have been working tirelessly to reach this point of being able to safely return our university to full operations.

Beginning the week of Feb. 8, the university will be opening outdoor sports facilities and the Bill Greehey Arena to limited capacity. With the reintroduction of sports to campus, the St. Mary’s community can feel confident that it remains together as a family and will continue to support each other through the rest of the year.