Vol 110 | Issue 7 | March 21, 2022 | San Antonio, Texas CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT& The Riverwalk goes green for parade PG.13 Intramurals bring the community together PG.15 OPINION Students weigh the benefits of Greek life PG. 7 SPANISH Brothers give inspiring words to students PG.10 SPORTS CONTINUED ON PG. 2
Since February 2014, following the Ukrainian Revolution of Dignity, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia has persisted. However, the conflict expanded significantly when Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. With varying information about the conflict going around, many students have attempted to remain informed.“There are a few things that are important for students to know. [The] first is that this is not a sudden event that came out of the blue. The seeds of the conflict have been in the ground for 30 years now. One thing that surprised many people was how peaceful the breakup of the Soviet Union was during the 1990s, with only a few civil wars breaking that peace. Ukraine and Russia had been highly integrated in the Soviet Era in terms of economy and society. Ukraine was at the center of many of the Soviet’s defense industries, making for some difficulties once they were divided by national borders. This was made even harder by sharing one of the Soviet Navy’s main fleets in Crimea,” Ian Smith, Ph.D. said. “The war we see today is in many ways, an expansion of the 2014 conflict after Ukraine’s Maidan revolution. Russia had threatened this a few times before in 2014-15 and just last year, but this time it all came together,” Smith, Ph.D. continued. Though Russia’s invasion left many upset and stressed over the situation, Dr. Smith also acknowledged the importance of knowing what made Russia act the way it did, emphasizing their history. “After the end of the Soviet Union, there was hope that Russia would become part of ‘one Europe, whole and free’ as President George H.W. Bush put it. Instead, we opted more for a policy of ‘my way or the highway.’ Once the mid-1990s came around though, Russia was excluded from NATO and the EU’s eastward expansion,” Smith, Ph.D.“Wesaid.did not do a good job of convincing Russia that NATO wasn’t a threat targeted at them. The 1999 Kosovo War against Serbia made Russia even more certain of NATO’s aims. The difference between Putin’s Russia in 2000 and today was that he didn’t have the power to do anything about it,” Dr. Smith continued.“TheU.S. and some of our allies didn’t do a very good job of leading either. Russia watched the U.S. invade Iraq in 2003 to conflictanresolveunresolvedonthe pretense. I think U.S. officials honestly
VICTORIA OLGUIN NEWS EDITOR bhGrapicy BiDemestor
Ripples of Russia-Ukraine war felt across community
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“As soon as I saw that Russia had invaded Ukraine, I knew that we needed to have a response as a faith community to this crisis, so I began emailing campus ministry to pitch my idea of a weekly Rosary to pray for Ukraine. Tis weekly prayer is done out of love for Ukraine and is something we plan on continuing doing, even afer this confict, for peace in all parts of the world, as even now Ukraine is not the only place in the world where sufering occurs,” Garcia said. As a Marianist and Catholic institution, prayer is constantly used during difcult times.
The content published in the Rattler is the responsibility of each respective writer. The views expressed in the staff editorial refect the views of the majority of the editorial staff.
Students who have shared worries about the ongoing Ukraine and Russia confict have been able to gather in a safe space and pray for the bettering of the situation. It is for this reason that students have seen the practice of weekly rosary prayer as an important practice for them. “ Te weekly rosary we do as a St. Mary’s community is important for a multitude of reasons. Chief among them being that we are coming together to pray as a faith community for peace in the world and right now, especially for peace in Ukraine. We are praying for the lives already lost in the confict and for those sufering and that Russia will realize the error of their ways and end their invasion,” Garcia said. Students who have attended the rosaries have enjoyed the events. “My favorite part of attending the weekly rosary has been that I get to sit and be mindful of what has been happening around me in the world and I get to do so with my friends,” freshman business management major, Eliana Villareal said. “Ofering up my to everyone in the St. Mary’s community and all are defnitely welcomed regardless of if you do or do not know how to pray the rosary,” Villareal said. “I warmly welcome all members of the St. Mary’s community to come participate in our prayer. If you can come to Assumption Chapel at 3:30 p.m. on Fridays we would love to have you.” Garcia continued. For questions regarding weekly rosary prayers, contact the university ministry at university.ministry@stmarytx.edu.
For students like freshman exercise and sports science major, Matthew Castillo, the confict between Ukraine and Russia could lead to a direct impact, as students like Castillo have recently enlisted for the Texas Army National Guard. “It makes me deeply sad. I see how there is so much unrest, tension, anger and hate in the world, and I always wish that I could do more. I hope me serving in the Texas Army National Guard can have a signifcant impact on my community, and hopefully, the world,” Castillo said. “I personally feel called to serve in whatever way possible. In my personal life, I feel that conficts like this could worry my loved ones. Some of my family members and friends were worried when I enlisted, which worries me because the thought of leaving them is hard to bear,” Castillo continued. Te ongoing confict between Ukraine and Russia has forced many to “Werefect.should be taking this as a reminder that peace and prosperity aren’t something we can take for granted. Instead, these are things we have to work for and build ourselves. If there’s one thing I suggest, [it] is [that] we focus our eforts on understanding what went wrong to get us to this point. War is never the frst choice of leaders, but instead is the result of misunderstandings and mistakes. We need to be better at avoiding those misunderstandings and mistakes so that we don’t fnd ourselves here again,” Dr. Smith said. “I hope the confict between Ukraine and Russia can be a wake-up call for the world. Hopefully, afer the confict is resolved, everyone can realize how important respect and peace is worldwide,” Castillo continued.
“ Te Rosary is one of the strongest prayers we have because of its ties to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is also important that we are showing that our response to this confict is one of love and prayer, as not everyone can give monetary support, but we all can still pray together for peace,” Garcia said.
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“When we didn’t listen to Russia and continued to ignore, downplay and reject their interests with NATO expansion, they were lef with few options but to either submit to our policy or lash out violently, and as we’ve seen, they took the second option. Of course, none of this excuses the use of violence and particularly the brutality of that violence, but it can help explain the reasons,” Smith, Ph.D. continued. For international Russian students like junior political science major, Polina Protozanova, the confict between Ukraine and Russia has already personally been afecting them. “ Te war, if anything, makes me feel conficted. I think many people forget that [the] Russian people did not choose to go to war or hurt our neighbors - this is not how authoritarian governments work. Regular working-class Russian people are being punished for something they never did - that’s been the most frustrating part. I honestly feel scared every single day for my family and friends,” Protozanova said. “ Te confict, of course, has afected me in many ways. In my day-to-day life, I haven’t been able to concentrate on any homework or university life - I constantly gravitate towards my phone to check for the latest news and updates. Tankfully, St. Mary’s
EDITORIAL STATEMENT
believed Iraq was a threat but let their preconceptions blind them to the lack of evidence supporting those beliefs that we were disarming a threat,” Dr. Smith said.
professors have been very understanding in that regard, especially those teaching [in] the political science department,” Protozanova said. “However, my life has not changed nearly as drastically as it has for my family back in Russia and for the Ukrainian people. Because of the sanctions, everything in Russia has doubled in prices and we do not have any food on the shelves in grocery stores. Streets are flled with media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. I will not speak for the Ukrainian people, of course. Teir miseries are far greater than mine or my family’s,” Protozanova continued.
NEWS EDITOR: VICTORIA OLGUIN | @STMURATTLERNEWS | MARCH 21, 20222 THE RATTLER CHECK US OUT
In the current state of the world where it might feel like so much confict is going on, it is important to take the time to refect and breathe. Tis is something that many have acknowledged at St. Mary’s University, and students like freshman biology and math double major Francisco Garcia have taken steps to achieve. By helping start a weekly rosary prayer, Garcia has enabled students to pray for peace in the world. It was especially during the start of the Ukraine and Russia confict that Garcia decided to take action.
POLICY ON NEWSPAPER THEFT
Student starts weekly rosary prayer amidst world confict
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From CMAT’s “I Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby!” to Rhianna’s “Umbrella,” student bands performed top hits that kept the crowd entertained and matched the 2000’s theme. At the end of the performances, the grand winner of the competition was fnally announced. Every band listened attentively along with the crowd, waiting for the results. As the announcer shouted, “Something Else!” the crowd began to cheer. Te band “Something Else” could not believe they had won the chance to perform at the upcoming Oyster Bake and the experience of the competition was an unforgettable one. “It’s funny because our band is called ‘Something Else’ and the experience truly was something else. Our performance was matching the energy from the crowd and especially with some of our songs too that ft the theme this year. It wasn’t [a] matter of standing out but living that moment and having fun. It was defnitely something else,” said senior psychology major, Marcos Mendoza. Although the musicians greatly enjoyed performing, “Something Else” had only been performing a few days before the“competition.Temost interesting thing about our band ‘Something Else’ is that we actually formed this band 3 days before the performance. Only practiced twice together in total! We didn’t care if we would win or lose. We went into this competition with the mentality and mindset to just go out with a bang and have fun. Tat was our number one goal. Just to have fun, play as loud as we possibly could, and make the best of it. We didn’t care if one of us missed a chord, forgot a couple [of] lyrics… or rushed the tempo a bit. All that mattered to us was just to remind ourselves to have fun and to make sure that our audience was on the same page with us,” senior computer information systems major, Joseph Guerra said. Battle of the Bands not only gave bands like ‘Something Else’ the opportunity to perform for a crowd but also allowed them to meet and network with other bands for future to other’s music, and it’s another to be able to harness and share that same passion, and this was undoubtedly one of my favorite moments,” Guerra said. “It was so cool to just talk and vibe with the other members. Not only that but enjoying the songs they played on stage too,” Mendoza continued. Although only one student band will be able to perform at Oyster Bake, every band that participated in the competition was able to bring the St. Mary’s community together through music, making the Battle of the Bands event an important one. “I believe it is imperative for St. Mary’s to host Battle of the Bands annually because it not only brings the student body together as a community, but it also allows them to let loose a little. Take a load of their shoulders, listen to fantastic music, dance, network and truly begin to feel that family bonding element of St. Mary’s that no other university can match. I see Battle of the Bands as more than just a competition. [It’s] an event that brings people together from all ethnic backgrounds, regardless of where they’re from, what they believe in, or what music they favor,” Guerra said. To hear “Something Else” perform at Oyster Bake, visit https://oysterbake.com.
StMU rattlers attend Te National Student Conference on Hispanic politics
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Of all of the resources ofered by the program, some of the students’ favorite resources in the program are out-of-state trips. Just recently, on Feb. 25, students in the AMP/TRiO program made their way to Washington D.C. for Te National Student Conference on Hispanic Politics. Students who frst heard of the opportunity were quick to apply. For freshman fnance and risk management major and AMP/TRiO student, Liliana Rojas, the experience was a great one. “I attended the frst conference and had such a good time that I wanted to return again!” Rojas said. “We were given opportunities to attend their summer policy camp or their immigration conference the week before this one. Overall, I had a great experience and can’t wait to attend again,” Rojas continued. Te conference in Washington D.C. allowed students to connect with other top students and scholars interested in Hispanic issues. Many discussion panels took place, covering various topics. From ‘Overcoming Divisions in American Life,’ ‘ Te Future of Hispanics in the Workforce,’ and ‘American Identity, Nationalism and Belonging,’ students who attended the panels were able to leave with a greater appreciation for the diversity in Hispanic communities, as well as a greater understanding of the importance in bipartisan dialogue. Additionally, students were able to gain friends and colleagues that would support each other throughout their careers. It is for this reason that students were able to see the importance of the“It’sconference.important to attend a conference like this since it talks about heavy topics concerning Hispanics. You didn’t have to be Hispanic either to attend. Te friends and connections I made are amazing.
VICTORIA OLGUIN NEWS EDITOR Graphic by Kasha Casiano Winning band poses with their trophy. | Photo courtesy of @stmarysstulife.
Rattler musicians compete to perform at Oyster Bake in Battle of the Bands 21, 2022
For frst-generation, low-income or students with disabilities, taking the steps to further their education can be difcult. However, with the AMP/TRiO program ofered at St. Mary’s University, students are able to thrive with the given resources. Standing for Achieving Maximum Potential, the AMP/TRiO program ofers a variety of resources and opportunities such as tutoring, fnancial literacy workshops, networking and entrance exam preparation. Tis program also ofers plentiful resources to its participants.
MARCH
Te program is now preparing for more trips in the future. “I enjoyed Miami and the luxury hotel we stayed in. For [Washington] D.C., we had the chance to stay in hotels that presidents [have] stayed in,” Rojas said. placesknowledgethatexample, last semester we took a trip to Texas A&M University-Kingsville and visited the graduate schools there. Tis semester, we took a trip to the Food Bank to see the diferent career options there and to learn about non-proft organizations,” senior psychology major and academic tutor for for the AMP/TRiO program, Sophia MunozStudentscontinued.inthe AMP/TRiO program are grateful for the opportunities ofered and are looking forward to seeing what the program will ofer in the future. To apply to the AMP/TRiO program, visit rattler-success/amp-trio/.www.stmarytx.edu/academics/resources/https://
NEWS 3 VICTORIA OLGUIN NEWS EDITOR
STMURATTLERNEWS.COM Every year, Fiesta Oyster Bake brings in about 70,000 people to the St. Mary’s campus, where many attend for the great food, music and livelihood. Music has been a great contribution to Oyster Bake and a favorite of many. With Oyster Bake nearing, San Antonians have already begun looking at the lineup of musicians who will be performing at the event. Tis year, student musicians at St. Mary’s were given the opportunity to perform at Oyster Bake alongside well-known artists. With only one spot available, they must compete with other musicians for the spot.
On Wednesday, March 7, student musicians gathered on stage with their instruments for the ultimate “Battle of the Bands.” As each band performed, students stepped onto the dance foor, nearing the stage of the band performing. By the end of each student band performance, the cheering from the crowd flled the room.
Everyone is excited to meet new people,” Rojas said. Students who attended the trip were ofered reimbursement for travel costs, meals and reserved rooms in downtown D.C., allowing many to enjoy and learn from their trip without worrying about costs. Students in the AMP/TRiO program have not only been given the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C., but to other locations like Miami as well.
An ad withour the information at: rattlernewsadvertising@gmail.com growing increaseContactits visibility through Rattler for more us can help your business student population! Check out the Rattler Spotify NEW
The St. Mary’s University Center for Catholic Studies presents the following free events: M ac T aggar T CATHOLIC INTELLECTUAL TRADITION LECTURE SERIES ES c OBEDO SAINT JOHN’S BIBLE LECTURE SERIES The Contribution of Eastern Christendom to the Development of a Theology of the Environment featuring the Rev. Paul Haffner, Ph.D. Wednesday, March 30, 2022 | 2 p.m. University Center, Conference Room A or via livestream at www.stmarytx.edu/live. A light reception will follow. Learn more at www.stmarytx.edu/mactaggart. Apocalypse, Now What? Latina/o/xs and the Book of Revelation featuring Jacqueline M. Hidalgo, Ph.D. Thursday, April 21, 2022 | 7 p.m. Reinbolt Hall, Assumption Chapel or via livestream at www.stmarytx.edu/live. Learn more at www.stmarytx.edu/sjb.
Unsurprisingly, businesses who have been paying their employees higher wages haven’t reported as much of a struggle with understafng and flling roles. “I think higher wages are necessary, otherwise the labor market will keep going down and people will no longer be searching for lowerlevel jobs such as in the food industry,” said freshman psychology major Michael De la Portilla. Perhaps businesses would have an labor force participation rates,” freshman business major Robert Redman III said. Another factor that ties into wages may also be the way workers are compensated, with some calling for a transition to labor and efort-based compensation versus the current hourly pay. “Since we work by the [hour], the amount of work [you] put in, whether it’s the [minimum] or [the maximum, you] still get paid the same… maybe change how [workers’] pay is afected based on the amount of labor [and] efort put in instead of it being [hourly],” freshman biology major Andres Chtata said. With the isolation caused by the pandemic, many workers were given time to reevaluate their job choices. Known to some as the “Great Reevaluation,” it’s no surprise that many workers began questioning if they even like their jobs. Many workers lef their companies for better roles elsewhere, while some even took a leap into a completely diferent industry. It seems that many workers who voluntarily resigned from their jobs since March 2020 feel that life is too short to stay in a job they didn’t feel passionate about.
For the frst time in two years, St. Mary’s University is bringing back one of the biggest events of the year, Oyster Bake. Fiesta staple is one of the most anticipated events of the spring semester and one of the largest means of revenue for the university. Te event features carnival rides, delicious fried foods, specialty drinks and snacks and of course, oysters for days. Oyster Bake is one of the many things that makes St. Mary’s just as unique as the city it calls home. San Antonio’s annual Fiesta is one of the city’s biggest celebrations and a long-standing tradition in the over 300-yearold city. Tis will be the 106th Oyster Bake to date and this century-long tradition is set to return with more fanfare than ever featuring many great performances by artists like Blue Oyster Cult and Puddle of Mudd alongside many other talented performers. Many look forward to the return of the carnival rides and state fair-style foods like the ever-famous chicken on a stick, an Oyster Bake staple, and other delicious snacks like funnel cake, elotes, hot cheetos and cheese, paletas and other fried fair foods. has its share of featured drinks like agua frescas, frozen lemonades, raspas and alcoholic beverages as well.
GraphicbyAdrianna Mirabal
Over the past few months, seemingly everyone has felt the long-term efects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to a complicated mix of economic factors, workers are quitting their jobs at near-record highs and many businesses have reported trouble flling open roles. In this time of change, it isn’t a surprise to see worker-driven structural changes in the labor market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, between January and June 2020, the labor force participation rate saw a rapid decline. With a sudden decline in in labor force participation, these shortages have caused disruptions in almost all industries.
Known to economists as mismatches, the disconnect between open jobs and available workers has been occurring for months due to location, pay expectations, skills and other
theythefeltclaimedofbysurveyAccordingfactors.toaconductedFlexJob,48%jobseekersthatthey“frustratedwithjobsearch,becauseweren’tfndingthe
right positions and the ones that are open en discussed, wages, retirees and “epiphany quitters” are only a few factors involved in the shortage of labor. Many seem to cite a desire for more fexibility, lack of available or afordable childcare, health concerns and vaccine hesitancies, stress, burnout and a desire for increased autonomy. Combined, these factors have incited major changes in the labor market and have lef workers feeling hopeful for the future. Students who are interested in nding a career that aligns with their values and educational background should reach out to the Career and Professional Development Center here on campus for more information210-431-at2231.
COVID pandemic seems to have pushed many to retire earlier than they had originally planned. An analysis from the Federal Bank of St. Louis found that over 3 million workers “likely retired earlier than they would have otherwise” during the pandemic. While some stay hopeful that we will see an increase of retirees returning to the workforce, it is not likely that many willTreturn.ereare currently many open roles, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that the roles are right for or appealing to jobseekers.
OPINION EDITOR: MAKAYLA AMITRANI | @STMURATTLERNEWS | MARCH 21, 20226 Oyster Bake marks a much needed return to century-old Fiesta traditions Business operations interrupted due to labor shortages throughout nation DEMI BESTOR EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SEANA BARCLAY COPY Graphic
campus is still a slight cause for concern, especially for high-risk or auto-immune compromised students and faculty. But such is the risk of hosting this large of an event on campus during a pandemic. er two years, the number of vaccinations and boosters has increased greatly with 75.5% of the Bexar County population being fully vaccinated as of March 9 according to data provided by the city of San Antonio. Given this, it’s understandable that the university would now feel more comfortable hosting such an event. And beyond the realm of pandemicrelated concerns, the monetary benefts of hosting Oyster Bake are vastly important in the grand scheme of scholarship money, organizations and the future of current and incoming students here at St. Mary’s. But despite the promising statistics, it’s still important that students and staf stay as safe as possible as the semester goes on so that the St. Mary’s community can continue to have in-person classes and events. Alongside staying safe with regards to the pandemic, students should also be prepared for the large crowds expected for Oyster Bake and put personal measures in place to ensure that the festival remains a fun-flled event and a welcome break from a hectic by Demi Bestor
A major contributing factor seems to be that workers are seeking out a livable wage. According to an MIT and CNBC analysis conducted in 2021, a $15 minimum wage is not a living wage for many families.
Editor-in-Chief Demi Bestor Copy Editor Seana Barclay Layout and Design Julissa Mariscal Advertising Manager Andres Gonzalez Multimedia Editor Adrianna Mirabal Web Editor Vivian Urrutia News Editor Victoria Olguin Spanish Editor Mária José Valiente Opinion Editor Makayla Amitrani Culture and Entertainment Editor Jacob A. Henson Sports Editor Megan Angelo Faculty Adviser Kathe Lehman-Meyer EDITORIAL STAFF
EDITOR
spring 2022 bid
their excited new members. |
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Opinions difer on “Euphoria’s” portrayal of drug abuse
Personally, seeing everything at facenitelyvaluedidall away from it all because of how real it all is,” Understandingsaid that Zendaya does not believe the show is promoting or glorifying drug use but provides hope to addicts is an amazing thing but others say diferent. Both sides could be true, addicts may see hope for themselves in the show, but it also might encourage non-addicts to partake in drug use or it could even scare people away from ever trying drugs in the frst place.
LETTER TO EDITOR POLICY
MAKAYLA AMITRANI OPINION EDITOR
In society, Greek life is notorious for bad grades, big parties and bumpy friendships. While that may be the case at other universities, St. Mary’s University’s sororities and fraternities prove societal expectations wrong. Students join Greek life for a number of reasons and most get everything they’re looking for and more. New Greek members receive a lot of advice in order to teach them the values of the organization and to learn to love those values. Some of those values include academic excellence and time management, with most of Greek life requiring above a 2.7 GPA to maintain good standing with the various“Someorganizations.ofthepros of Greek life for me would be a support group and an organization that I can rely on to help me through whatever comes my way. [Along] with this, it is an excellent way to network and meet individuals you never would have had connections with [otherwise],” said junior fnance and risk management major Joseph Napier. Tese feelings are not only true with Sigma Phi Epsilon but also with Alpha Sigma Tau and Alpha Phi, who share the joy and excitement of going through recruitment and fnding their home. Tey share the opportunities that joining Greek life has provided them. “I joined [Alpha Sigma Tau] to build friendships I never had before because I was homeschooled. What surprised me was the amount of love I have received since [going through recruitment]. I never thought I’d receive as much love and acceptance from not only my big but the entire sorority,” said sophomore psychology and criminology major Autumn Gonzales. Other reasons many students decided to go through recruitment were friendship, getting involved on campus and academic excellence. Clarissa Morales sophomore biology major discussed that managing her time afer joining was a cause for concern at frst, but realized the amount of support ofered through Greek life completely eradicated those concerns. “Alpha Phi has given me the opportunity to gain campus connections, as well as academic support. When I joined [Alpha Phi], I was fearful of not having time to manage school and my sorority events but when speaking out to my sisters, I was able to get assistance with time management. It’s true, whatever you put into your sorority is what you will gain out of it. I would not trade my sisters for anything in the world,” saidWithMorales.allgood things, there must be bad, as some students highlight some of the negatives to joining Greek life. “I think one of the biggest cons is time. I’ve heard that being part of Greek life is very time-consuming to the point where you have no free time and the organization basically becomes your life. Consequently, that negatively afects your academics,” said Amanda Villarreal senior computer science major. A student in Greek life also highlights the negative aspect of time management. “[A con] of Greek life is that it requires you to learn how to manage your time well, especially on campus where there is always an opportunity to engage in an event,” saidAnotherGutierrez.concern is the monetary cost of Greek life. An understandable concern with the highest amount for new member dues being around $900. “I’ve also heard the cost of being in Greek life can get very expensive, costs for memberships, shirts, dues, etc., and I imagine most college students are tight on money,” Villarreal said. Another student brings up the negative stigmas that are associated with Greek life. “I would say that Greek life has a lot of bad social stigmas. To be associated with a frat or sorority means it entails popularity, overlooking bad qualities in people or even not being as keen in your academics. Even if you practice none of those preconceived notions, you still are associated with them,” said Daija Vanegas junior music education major. Within a large organization like Greek life, there are bound to be a few ups and downs and it may not be for everyone but doing research about individual organizations is the best route to take if Greek life is something of interest.
AMITRANI
Euphoria is described as a feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness. Euphoria is common amongst drug users, them feeling the highest of highs, the feeling of euphoria. Te HBO hit show “Euphoria” is focused on the characters doing drugs to escape their lives or feel that small moment of happiness, which leads to accusations that the show glamorizes drug use. Stars of the hit show such as Zendaya, have denied the accusations, stating that her character, Rue, is someone that addicts can seek hope in, some citing that it spotlights drugAccordinguse. to a statement made to Entertainment Weekly, Zendaya hopes that Rue can “hopefully help people feel a little bit less alone in their experience and their pain. And maybe feel like they’re not the only one going through or dealing with what they’re dealing with.” Even afer Zendaya shared her perspective, it was not enough to convince the public “Ratherotherwise.thanfurther each parent’s desire to keep their children safe from the potentially horrifc consequences of drug abuse and other high-risk behavior, HBO’s television drama, ‘Euphoria,’ chooses to misguidedly glorify and erroneously depict high school student drug use, addiction, anonymous sex, violence and other destructive behaviors as common and widespread in today’s world,” said D.A.R.E., the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program.
“I don’t think it glorifes it, but I think it highlights drugs in a way that a lot of us have never seen before. I know growing up I was kind of sheltered so I never really got to see the reality of drugs and how it a people, I just hear about the extreme horror stories, so I think it gives people that were sheltered a new perspective on it,” said junior accounting major Isabella Mulwani. On the other hand, it could be seen as Alongdrugpromotingandeducationalnotasuse.with the education, the addition of the fun and pretty out the“Euphoriaappeal. does a good job of showcasing how drugs [are] seen and used in our culture today. Te show defnitely adds to the appeal with the makeup, music, outfts and party scenes, but it also shows the negatives that come with it. Such as Rue’s addiction [and] how badly it impacted her life. For me, when I watched it, it was incredibly relatable and terrifying to see how drugs are used but from the other perspective,” said Monsenet Vasquez junior fnance and risk management major. Te show does a good job of showing the cause and efect of using drugs and showing the less attractive aspects of addiction and drug“[I]use.don’t think it romanticizes it in any way. I know a lot of people say ‘Euphoria’ romanticizes drugs, but I don’t think it does.
MAKAYLA OPINION
If you or someone you know is in need of help or intervention, please contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration hotline at 1-800662-4357. You can also contact the Student Counseling Center at 210-4363135 for more information or to schedule an individual appointment with an available counselor.
GraphicbyDemi
Students analyze the positive and negative aspects of St. Mary’s Greek life Zeta on day with Photo by Larry Rodriguez-Shea
OPINIONMARCH 21, 2022 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM 7
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Women’s History Month was created to educate others about the important role that women have played in history.
Information by: Womensday.com
BOY’S CLUB Come join us at the GIRL’S In the data retrieved fromthe Education DataInitiative in 2021, it statedthat women are outnumber-ing men in receivinghigher education degrees.According to the data, 59%of women are earning apostsecondary degreecompared to 50% for men. For years, women have been cast out from cliques like the ‘Boy’s Club’ simply for being women. The past revolves around the accomplishments of men and now, it is the women’s turn to take a step out of the shadows and into the spotlight. It is time to show the world what women are capable of doing.
Kamala Harris is making her mark in history by becoming the first woman, the first African American woman and the first Asian American to become Vice President of the United States in 2020.
Sally Ride became the first woman to go to space in 1983. After her Doctor Antonia Novello was the first woman and first Hispanic woman to be appointed as the Surgeon General of the United States in 1990 by President George Bush.
Avril Haines made an impact on history by becoming the first woman to serve during the Obama administration as the Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency and the Deputy National Security Advisor. Haines was also the first woman to be nominated, by President Biden, to serve as the Director of National Intelligence.
Womensday.com death, her obituaryrevealed that she was gay and therefore alsomaking her the first LGBTQ astronaut. At the age of 15, Gitanjali Rao, became Time magazine’s first-ever Kid of the Year in 2020. Rao invented a mobile device that tests for lead in drinking water. She also developed an app that uses artificial intelligence to help detect cyber bullying.
Isabella Castro de Honduras y estudiante de segundo año en administración de empresas expreso como, “yo siento que la salud mental es un tema muy importante, mas ahora en la actualidad ya que está siendo más aceptado. Con COVID-19 considero que hay que prestarle más atención a el tema. Tristemente siento que en Honduras este tema se considera estigma. Muchas familias sienten que ciertos desórdenes mentales no son reales o válidos.” De distinta manera, Brissa Campos Toscano, de Perú quien es una estudiante de segundo año en Ennecesitancreenporcomenzarpacientescomodeexperimentarhepsicólogospadrescomo,globalesinternacionalesestudiosexplica“Conmissiendopodidomáscercaelhechoposiblesdecidennoconsultaselhechodequequeparairaldoctorestarenfermos.elPerúantessecreía
St. Mary’s University abrió sus puertas en el año de 1852, siendo ésta la primera institución católica en el suroeste de los Estados Unidos. Dicha institución educativa, fue fundada en la Ciudad de San Antonio, Texas por la compañía de María, congregación muy religiosa cristiana-católica dedicada a la misión y la evangelización en todo el mundo. Cabe resaltar que desde su fundación, la universidad siempre ha contado con la presencia de Sacerdotes o hermanos religiosos Marianistas, quienes han visto pasar generaciones de alumnos durante toda su vida y con ello, cambios sociales, educativos y culturales. Desde sus inicios hasta la actualidad, los Marianistas han prestado su servicio como maestros, o incluso, presidentes de esta mismaMuchosinstitución.hantenido la oportunidad de conocer al Rev. John A. Leies quien fungió como presidente durante los años de 1985 a 1988, quién desafortunadamente falleció el pasado 22 de diciembre. Durante algunos diálogos con él, Rev. Leies comentó lo siguiente: “La vida está cambiando continuamente y nosotros tenemos que estar abiertos a los nuevos retos y misiones que se presentan día a día, es verdad que entre tú y yo existe un gran número de años, pero eso no significa que podamos conectarnos y así poder trabajar en equipo, e incluso, lograr aprender el uno del otro.” Leies agrega como “uno de los retos durante mi periodo como presidente fue que me esforcé por conocer y aprender de los alumnos para poder entablar un diálogo y a la vez lograr conectar con todos ellos, fue un gran trabajo, pero gracias a Dios pude lograrlo.” Fue grato, escuchar al Padre John, que aunque no compartió mucho tiempo como hubiera querido con muchos estudiantes debido a la pandemia del COVID-19, muchos quedaron fascinados con sus historias y sobre todo, consejos. Creo que, como fue fuertemente mencionado anteriormente, es bueno estar abierto a los cambios para poder visualizar diferentes puntos de vista y no entrar en controversias al escuchar diferentes opiniones o formas de expresar de otras personas. Queda claro que se vive en un lugar rodeado de diferentes personas provenientes de otras culturas o países y no está de más aprender de ellos y con ellos. El hermano Michael Sullivan, quien es profesor en el departamento de música desde hace más de un cuarto de siglo dice lo siguiente: “He estado en la universidad de St. Mary’s por más de 25 años. Desde que comencé a ejercer mi carrera aquí, me ha impresionado mucho el alumnado. A menudo les digo a los Hermanos que tenemos los mejores estudiantes en el campus.” Sullivan agrega que “la gran mayoría de los estudiantes son amables y serviciales entre sí, se cuidan unos a otros. También son muy atentos con sus profesores y el personal de la universidad. Aprecio el hecho de que muchos de nuestros estudiantes están muy conscientes de lo que está pasando en el mundo y en la comunidad de San Antonio en general, especialmente con los problemas ambientales, muchos de los estudiantes se involucran en proyectos de servicio y, en general, se preocupan por hacer del mundo un lugar Sullivanmejor.”también añade que “Pienso en la universidad como un organismo vivo que cambia continuamente y se adapta a su entorno. La universidad se actualiza continuamente y hace todo lo posible para responder a nuestra sociedad que cambia rápidamente. Pienso de que la universidad siempre está tratando de responder a las necesidades actuales de los estudiantes y brindarles las experiencias y habilidades que necesitarán para ingresar al mundo laboral y las próximas etapas de sus vidas.” Las palabras del hermano Sullivan como suelen llamarlo sus estudiantes, de verdad mueven el espíritu de vida y motivan a muchos a seguir aprendiendo cosas nuevas, su forma de referirse a todos los estudiantes como un organismo que se transforma continuamente hacen reflexionar a las personas en cuánto se debe aprender para poner en práctica y a su vez, transmitir a todos los profesores y compañeros, que como muchos forman parte de esta gran familia que prepara a los líderes del mañana.. Estas palabras de sabiduria ayudan a muchos estudiantes y ademas los inpiran a tomar en cuenta las distintas perspectivas sobre la vida y el tiempo.
que necesitabas tener depresión y ansiedad para ir al psicólogo. Sin embargo, siento que ahora es algo necesario por el tema de COVID y como la pandemia ha afectado a niños y a adultos. Creo que ahora la salud mental tiene otra perspectiva.” Casos así son muy comunes pues la mayoría no están bien informados sobre la salud mental y la omiten. También pasa mucho esto porque se tiene un gran
sentimiento de desaprobación hacia el tema y se tiene un prejuicio a este. Algunos estudiantes expresan como muchas veces cuando le cuentan a sus padres qué no se encuentran bien y que necesitan ayuda de un psicólogo, muchas veces no les hacen caso y hasta los llegan a llamar locos. Por todos estos prejuicios, personas no buscan de ayuda psicología dejando desatendido su salud mental, y esto puede ser un problema muy grave pues puede afectar en la vida La salud mental puede ser afectada por diferentes factores que están en nuestra vida cotidiana, por ejemplo, las redes sociales como Instagram o Facebook. Gracias al Muchasentreestereotiposaprendemosinternetmuchascosas,perotambiénnosperjudican,ycreandolaspersonas.personasnoven
Estudiantes latinos hablan acerca de salud mental y su estigma en la sociedad
Cuando se habla de salud, normalmente las personas piensan en el aspecto físico y no siempre se toma en consideración la mental. Nuestra salud mental además de incluir nuestra tranquilidad o bienestar psicológico también toma en cuenta el bienestar social y el emocional, el cual es un factor fundamental. La organizacion de salud mental describe la salud mental como, “Un estado de bienestar en el cual el individuo se da cuenta de sus propias aptitudes, puede afrontar las presiones normales de la vida, puede trabajar productiva y fructíferamente y es capaz de hacer una contribución a su comunidad,” (OMS 2001a, p. 1). A diferencia de años atrás, a esta no se le daba la importancia como ahora, pues solo se trataba en centros psiquiátricos y esto era mal visto por la sociedad, además que no era considerado como algo que fuera real y pudiera afectar a las personas. Con el paso del tiempo esto ha ido cambiando, pues ante la sociedad de ahora, es de suma importancia cuidar la salud mental. Aunque, toda esta opinión a cambia a lo largo de los años, todavía se sigue conservando la opinión acerca de la salud mental y esto se ve mucho en las generaciones pasadas. Ahora la verdadera pregunta es, ¿Cuál es el verdadero estigma que tiene la sociedad latina con la salud mental? ¿Qué es lo que hace que muchos latinos no busquen ayuda? Para saber esto se le pregunto a personas de la comunidad latina que era lo que pensaban acerca de la salud mental y su importancia. En efecto, la mayoría de los entrevistados comentaron que era muy importante su salud mental.
Todas estas enfermedades psicológicas están muy presentes en la nueva generación, pues están más expuestos a problemas globales y a un futuro mas competitivo. Aun así, no muchas personas tratan con esto, solo por el miedo de ser juzgados o por el simple
echo de que no están bien informados acerca delLatema.salud mental es un tema muy delicado que se le debe de tener mucha importancia. Aunque generaciones pasadas no pensaban de la misma manera, siempre se debe de mantener informado y tratar de mejorar esta. Tener ayuda psicológica no significa que somos “locos” o que vamos a ser constantemente juzgados, optar por ayuda es lo mejor que se puede hacer cuando se necesite. En conclusión, tenemos que cuidar nuestra mente y mantenerla en cuenta siempre, y se tiene que romper con el estigma que se tiene sobre esta, pues no es nada malo por el cual se debería de juzgar a las personas a que todos tienen sus problemas. Lo mejor que podemos hacer es ayudar a los demas y apoyarlos con su salud mental, ademas de respetarlos. Ya que muchos expresan como es sumamente importante darle un systema de apoyo a quienes lo necesiten. En esta sociedad es muy dificil la vida para los jovenes mas con el acceso a el internet, ya que estan expuestos a todo tipo de informacion, muchas veces siendo erronea y contradiciendo mucho de los valores que se respetan dentro de la sociedad y la dinamica familiar. Debido a esto es importante tratar de eliminar el estigma de la salud mental en las comunidades latinas. Aunque no solo en estas pero sino alrededor de todo el mundo.
Para asi crear un futuro prometedor para las proximas generaciones pertenecientes a la sociedad hispano hablante y pertenecientes a otras comunidades atraves del mundo.
SPANISH EDITOR: MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE | @STMURATTLERNEWS | MARCH 21, 202210 Hermanos Marianistas comparten sus distintas opiniones de lo que es la vida VALENTINA GAONA/ MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE JOSE GUTIERREZ/ MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE
Hermano Mike Sullivan posa para foto durante su cumpleaños. | Cortesía de Jose Gutierrez Graphic by Demi Bestor
Debido a esto, si todos se unen para lograr eliminar este estigma el cual ha existido por ya cientos de siglos, se creara un futuro mejor y prometedor.
esto como un problema real, pero por cosas así es que comúnmente adolescentes hasta adultos desarrollan ansiedad y en algunos casos depresión.
MARCH 21, 2022 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM
MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE EDITORA DE ESPAÑOL
Una vez la canasta está formada, se puede ir a dejar a cualquiera de los locales de Ronald McDonald House charity aquí en San Antonio. También este programa ofrece hacer cartas de apoyo, con mensajes conmovedores para las familias en necesidad. El programa además acepta donaciones de ropa y mucho más. Lo importante es poder ayudar a las familias que más lo necesitan y sacarles una sonrisa. Para más información se puede chequear su sitio web piblico en https://rmhcsanantonio.org.Otraopciónqueofrecela ciudad de San Antonio para ayudar a la comunidad está aquí cerca de la universidad, y se llama Guadalupe Community Center. Este centro tiene como meta proveer comida, reducir la pobreza y prevenir la falta de vivienda para los adultos mayores y niños y niñas. Opciones que este programa ayuda para hacer servicio social es la donación de canastas de comida, ya que ellos tienen a muchas personas dependiendo de ellos para nutrición.
Durante la entrevista Samandi también compartió cómo él fue una parte integral durante el proceso de crear esta organización. El expreso “Al principio, solo estaba yo en la mesa de la cocina. Recaudé $2000 en GoFundMe para pagar el abogado y la CPA que podrían ayudarme a obtener mi estado 501(c)(3) con el IRS.” Él agrega que, “Crearía listas de correo usando documentos de Google y otras tecnologías gratuitas. Con el tiempo, otras personas comenzaron a unirse y a involucrarse cada vez más, en el programa incluidos maestros, padres y, por supuesto, los estudiantes. Han sido la fuerza impulsora de esto todo el tiempo.” Samandi además comparte cómo los estudiantes de la Universidad St. Mary‘s pueden involucrarse en el programa. Samandi menciona que, “Siempre estamos buscando personas que quieran apoyar con aportes económicos y donaciones, o con voluntariado y donaciones de su tiempo y talento. También contratamos pasantes de vez en cuando, especialmente en el verano. Siempre apreciamos un me gusta o compartir en las redes sociales, y en general correr la voz sobre el buen trabajo que están haciendo nuestros estudiantes.”
MAKAYLA AMITRANI/ MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE
Opiniones de Oyster Bake, la celebración mas importante para la universidad
Por primera vez en dos años, St. Mary’s University trae de regreso uno de los eventos más grandes del año, Oyster Bake. Este elemento básico de la Fiesta es uno de los eventos más esperados del semestre de primavera y también una de las mayores fuentes de ingresos para la universidad. El evento cuenta con juegos mecánicos, deliciosas comidas fritas, bebidas y bocadillos especiales y, por supuesto, ostras duranteOysterdías.Bake es una de las muchas cosas que hacen que St. Mary’s sea tan único como la ciudad a la que llama hogar. La Fiesta anual de San Antonio es una de las celebraciones más grandes de la ciudad y una larga tradición de más de trescientos años. Este será el Oyster Bake número 106 hasta la fecha y esta larga tradición de un siglo regresará con más fanfarria que nunca. Aquí habrán muchas actuaciones excelentes de artistas como Blue Oyster Cult y Puddle of Mudd junto con muchos otros artistas talentosos. Muchos esperan con ansias el regreso de los juegos mecánicos y las comidas al estilo de la feria estatal, como el siempre famoso pollo en un palito, un alimento básico de Oyster Bake, y otros deliciosos bocadillos como el pastel de embudo, elotes, paletas y otros alimentos fritos de la feria. El festival también tiene su parte de bebidas destacadas como agua fresca, limonada helada, raspas y bebidas alcohólicas. Los estudiantes de todo el campus esperan Oyster Bake todos los años tradicionalmente hablando y regresa este año, muchos estudiantes que se unieron a la comunidad de St. Mary’s durante la pandemia esperan experimentarlo por primera vez, Incluso para aquellos que no planean asistir a las festividades. Ese viernes durante el festival suele ser un buen día libre en un semestre ya ocupado. Sin embargo, este año, ese viernes se convirtió en un día de recuperación opcional debido al comienzo tardío del semestre, y a medida que la comunidad continúa adaptándose a COVID. Es de esperar que el próximo Oyster Bake todavía tenga su tradicional viernes libre para estudiantes y profesores. Pero Oyster Bake es más que una gran fiesta. El festival es una de las mayores fuentes de ingresos tanto para la universidad como para aquellas organizaciones que eligen participar en la recaudación de fondos. Con el 100 % del dinero recaudado para los estudiantes y organizaciones de St. Mary’s en forma de becas, donaciones y fondos operativos. Una de las razones principales por las que los estudiantes deberían estar emocionados, es por el regreso del festival es el hecho de que las becas. Dependiendo de la participación del evento de dos días, podrían ver un aumento potencial, especialmente después de la ausencia de dos años de Oyster Bake. Para los estudiantes que no están familiarizados con Oyster Bake, este festival vale la pena, especialmente dado el semestre de primavera más corto de este año. El primer y más notable cambio que verán los estudiantes es el cercado temporal que rodea el campus, especialmente alrededor de las residencias estudiantiles. Con la intención de controlar las multitudes durante Oyster Bake. Estas vallas la interrumpen los senderos habituales para caminar y los atajos alrededor del campus. Por lo que los estudiantes deben estar preparados para navegar por el campus con un poco más de tiempo reservado antes de las clases. Las vallas también se colocan para mantener a los visitantes no deseados del festival fuera de las áreas de residencia para proteger a los residentes que deciden quedarse en el campus durante Oyster Bake. Pero para muchos, Oyster Bake no regresará sin algunas preocupaciones. La pandemia aún está en curso y a pesar de las restricciones relajadas que rodean las máscaras en el campus. Tener una reunión tan grande en el campus sigue siendo un motivo de preocupación, especialmente para los estudiantes y profesores de alto riesgo o autoinmunes comprometidos. Pero tal es el riesgo de organizar un evento tan grande en el campus durante una pandemia Afortunadamente, después de dos años, la cantidad de vacunas y refuerzos ha aumentado considerablemente con el 75.5% de la población del condado de Bexar completamente vacunada al 9 de marzo, según datos proporcionados por la ciudad de San DadoAntonio.esto, es comprensible que la universidad ahora se sienta más cómoda organizando un evento de este tipo. Y más allá del ámbito de las preocupaciones relacionadas con la pandemia, los beneficios monetarios de albergar Oyster Bake son muy importantes en el gran esquema del dinero de las becas. Las organizaciones y el futuro de los estudiantes actuales y entrantes aquí en St. Mary’s. Pero a pesar de las estadísticas prometedoras, sigue siendo importante que los estudiantes y el personal se mantengan lo más seguros posible a medida que avanza el semestre para que la comunidad de St. Mary’s pueda continuar teniendo clases y eventos en persona. Además de mantenerse seguros con respecto a la pandemia, los estudiantes también deben estar preparados para las grandes multitudes que se esperan para Oyster Bake y tomar medidas personales para garantizar que el festival siga siendo un evento lleno de diversión y un merecido descanso de un semestre agitado e inusual.
Qué mejor manera de poder hacer un impacto en el mundo, aunque sea algo pequeño, que ayudar a la comunidad la cual te rodea. Debido a esto hay muchas organizaciones sin fines de lucro las cuales tienen sus puertas abiertas para cualquiera que desee ser voluntario. Una de las opciones para poder hacer servicio social aquí en San Antonio puede ser Ronald McDonald House charity. Todos conocen la cadena de comida rápida llamada McDonald‘s, pero muy pocos conocen el hecho que ellos ofrecen un programa sin fines de lucro para ayudar a familias en necesidad. Hay muchas actividades que esta organización ofrece, por ejemplo hacer canastas básicas. Las cuales contienen ya sea shampoo, comida enlatada, desodorante, jabón o en otras palabras cualquier producto básico.
Me partió el corazón ver a un jo ven que no creía en sus sueños. Empecé la organización sin fines de lucro ese año y desde en tonces hemos llevado a más de 500 viajeros a 15 países difer entes y brindado más de 20,000 horas de servicio aquí en San Antonio.” Amir Samandi Director ejecutivo de San Antonio Students of Service “
Tres distintas ideas sobre las oportunidades de servicio social en San Antonio
A Través de todo el mundo existen diferentes culturas, sociedades y comunidades, cada una siendo especial y única en su propia forma, y cada una tiene su lado positivo y así mismo negativo. Como todo buen ser humano, el valor de ayudar al prójimo es sumamente importante, más aún durante las recientes circunstancias que se encuentran muchos en estos recientes años. Después de ver todas las noticias y todo el sufrimiento por el cual muchos están pasando recientemente, debido a esto muchos estudiantes decidieron tomar acción. Una de las ideas que se tuvo fue compartir con los lectores diferentes opciones de servicio social aquí en San Antonio.
respetable. Samandi compartió como, “Yo era profesor en una escuela de bajos ingresos y un estudiante me hizo una pregunta sobre la Torre Eiffel. Cuando le mostré dónde estaba en un mapa, me dijo abatida que pensaba que nunca podría ir.” Samandi agrega que, “Me partió el corazón ver a un joven que no creía en sus sueños. Empecé la organización sin fines de lucro ese año y desde entonces hemos llevado a más de 500 viajeros a 15 países diferentes y brindado más de 20,000 horas de servicio aquí en San Antonio. Quería que los jóvenes creyeran en su poder para marcar la diferencia y soñar en grande, sin importar su origen.”
Finalmente en la entrevista, Samandi decide expresar los tipos de eventos que el programa San Antonio Student of Service ofrece y cómo los estudiantes interesados pueden ganar horas sociales. “Organizamos entre 3 y 5 eventos en promedio por mes en muchas agencias locales, 75 de hecho hasta ahora. Todo, desde el banco de pañales de Texas hasta el banco de alimentos de San Antonio, desde el refugio para personas sin hogar del ministerio Sam hasta las mascotas vivas de SamandiSA.” agregó que, “Al exponer a los estudiantes a la variedad de desafíos que enfrenta nuestra comunidad, los estamos ayudando a desarrollar sus habilidades de liderazgo y también su empatía y comprensión del mundo fuera de su hogar o simplemente de su teléfono celular.” Para más información se puede visitar el sitio web en https://www.sossanantonio.org.Esmuyimportanteayudaral prójimo, en especial cuando hay tanta necesidad alrededor del mundo. Al tener todos los privilegios y ventajas que una persona puede tener, es muy ético usar todo eso para ayudar a los más necesitados. Y que mejor manera de lograrlo ayudando a tu comunidad que te rodea ya que esto llena de felocodad.
También tiene un programa llamado Adopta a un adulto mayor. Este consiste en proveer a los adultos mayores una persona que le dé compañía, remotamente en estos momentos de aislamiento. Asimismo, el centro además ofrece un programa después de escuela gratis. Este programa le da tutoría y ofrece actividades extracurriculares en un ambiente seguro. Además, se aceptan voluntarios. Para más información se puede chequear su sitio web en inspiróteníaejecutivoaSiendoseinteresadoelperspectivalosorganizaciónSanorganizacióncommunity-ctr.https://ccaosa.org/guadalupe-DeunamanerasimilarexisteotrasinfinesdelucrollamadaAntonioStudentsofService.EstatienecomometatrabajarconjóvenesdeSanAntonioydarlesunaglobalatravésdelaeducación,serviciosocialyotrasexperiencias.Debidoaestocualquierestudianteenayudaralacomunidadpuedevoluntariarenesteprograma.unamuybuenaopciónparaayudarlacomunidad,seentrevistóalDirectorllamadoAmirSamandi,elcualmuchoquedeciracercadelprograma.Samandiexpresóeleventoelcualloacrearestaorganizaciónmuy
SPANISH 11
On March 30, the Women in Law Leadership Awards will be held in the Law Library Commons to commemorate women in the School of Law for their outstanding achievements. To end Women’s History Month, the last event will be “Resisting Book Censorship through Hope and Healing in Women’s Literature” on March 31, held in Moody Life Science Building rooms 101 and 102. This event will be presented by Dr. Cantu Sanchez’s Women of Color, Writing as Memoir and Resistance class. They will discuss the censorship of books impacting women of color and LGBTQ writers and the banning of these books in K-12 schools. For more information, contact Margaret Cantu-Sanchez, Ph.D., at mcantusanchez@stmarytx.edu.Afterwards,therewillbeapanel called The Environment and Gender Disparities Discussion Panel. This discussion will be about whether gender roles play a part in who is impacted the most by environmental problems. For more information, contact Vanessa Jimenez at vjimenez@stmarytx.edu.
The time is coming to say goodbye to the bitter winds of the Texas winter, and hello to the long, warm days of spring at long last. This spring, Centro San Antonio will be celebrating with the community. From March to May, Centro is co-hosting a series of over 30 events featuring talented local artists, entrepreneurs and creators which range wildly in themes hosted in the private and lively Peacock Alley.
With loosened restrictions and COVID-19 vaccinations on the rise, inperson community activities are now something that can be enjoyed safely. “As we welcome locals back downtown, we want to provide them opportunities to not only reconnect with each other but [with] treasured spaces as well,” says Centro Director of Urban Activation and Play Elizabeth Burt. “This summer series of activations in Peacock Alley will provide novel play experiences and [support] local businesses and Additionally,artists.”these activations allow San Antonio’s local artists to create fun experiences that introduce a new audience to their work by engaging with people face-to-face — something that would have been essentially impossible just a year ago.
Expect plenty of live music, delicious food, markets waiting to be explored, experiencesimmersivesocials,artand even a small “Comic-Con in the Alley” on Saturday, May 21. One event to look forward to is called “Be the Movement,” which is a demonstrationcelebration of social/political movements, past and present, expressed in music, dance, poetry and street art. Overall, this event is about celebrating the diversity and inclusivity of the marginalized by acknowledging progressive steps forward through artistic expression. This is just one example of the numerous activations hitting the streets of PeacockOtherwise,Alley. visiting Peacock Alley will have something for everyone, no matter how picky, and admission is free of charge for anyone and everyone to attend. So, do not be a stranger and make sure to check out Peacock Alley to mix and mingle with the community and meet local artists, entrepreneurs, musicians and creators to kick off the early spring days. Peacock Alley is located at 118 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205 with event times varying. For the social media junkies out there, Centro San Antonio will be giving the chance to feature users on their social media to those who tag them with #PeacockAlleySA; otherwise, check out Centro San Antonio on Facebook. A full list of events can be found at www.centrosanantonio.org (Graphics courtesy of Centro San Antonio.) KUSSEL STAFF WRITER
Celebrate the women of the past, present and future to come
KENDRA TURNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Students gather to celebrate Women’s History Month on campus. Photo by Gorge Munoz-Escobedo we welcome locals back downtown, we want to provide them opportunities to not only reconnect with each other but [with] treasured spaces as well.”
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March is Women’s History Month and St. Mary’s University has been putting on events and giving awards as early as 1990, when the first Alice Wright Franzke Feminist Awards were held. The theme for this year is “Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope.” To kick off the month, the first event was The Alice Wright Franzke Feminist Awards on March 1. Alice Franzke was a professor in the sociology department at St. Mary’s University from 1982 until 1989. She was an advocate for equality, peace and empowerment. This award commemorates her values and can be given to any St. Mary’s student, alumni, faculty or staff member. This year, the award was given to five women. This year’s winners were Shalini Venkat; Karen Munoz; Jessica González Uhlig, Ed.D; Rick Sperling, Ph.D. and Mary BrennanFollowingStich. the Alice Wright Franzke Feminist Awards, the Women of Color Appreciation Dinner took place on March 3. The dinner was a roundtable discussion highlighting women of the past and present. Students got to hear from faculty and alumni about topics that impact women of color. Then, on March 22, Women’s Voices of Hope will be held in the University Center, Conference Room A. Panelists Marie Dennis, Patricia Mejia, Kiran Kaur Bains, Sister Susan Mika, Sister Jane Ann Slater and the Rev. Ann Helmke will talk about finding hope in troubled times. For more information or for the Zoom link, contact Sonia Garcia, Ph.D., at sgarcia@ stmarytx.edu or Larry Hufford, Ph.D., at lhufford@stmarytx.edu.TheBlessingoftheWomen: Feast of the Annunciation will be on March 25 at the Bell Tower. Women from the University Police Department and Student Health Center will get together at the tower to commemorate the Feast of Annunciation. On March 28, the book club will meet to discuss “The Secret History of Home Economics: How Trailblazing Women Harnessed the Power of Home and Changed the Way We Live” by Danielle Dreilinger. Dreilinger talks about the history of home economics and talks about women who shaped the field of domestic science. The author talks about how home economics turns out to be relevant, and revolutionary. For more information or for the Zoom link, contact Allison Gray, Ph.D., at agray7@stmarytx.edu.
Kick off spring with a breath of fresh culture at Peacock Alley
Valeria Garza, a freshman accounting major says, “The Women’s Affairs Council and The Women’s History Month Committee have put together events that make me feel like this school cares a lot about my voice as a woman.” These events are great way to reward and recognize students, faculty, staff and alumni who have worked to establish empowerment.
¡VivaCultura! #PeacockAlleySA As
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR: JACOB A. HENSON | @STMURATTLERNEWS | MARCH 21, 202212 SOPHIA
Elizabeth Burt Centro Director of Urban Activation “ COMUNIDADCULTIVANDOCULTIVANDOCOMUNIDAD
senior psychology major mentioned. “And when someone doesn’t, we are inclined to give them a small pinch.” Other students at St. Mary’s University rave about their favorite restaurant deals on St. Patrick’s Day. “I love the shamrock shake from McDonald’s” Gabriel Campos junior psychology major adds. “…as well as the Lenny Leprechaun Donuts from KrispyAfterKreme!”students heard about the St. Patrick’s Day Festival and River Parade, which took place 15 minutes away from campus, students were ecstatic to join in on the all fun activities featured in this year’s parade. For some students, this was their first time at the celebration. Senior psychology major Marisol Moreno stated, “I [had] never attended the St. Patrick’s Day parade before, but I [was] excited to attend this year with friends!” The final day of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration took place on Saturday, March 19. One highlight included the Lucky Dog Parade and costume contest. Registration took place at 1 p.m. and the parade began at 2 p.m. on La Villita Way. Dogs were welcome to dress in green St. Patrick’s attire and walk with their owners on a non-retractable leash. The green river came to light on Saturday, March 19 during the St. Patrick’s Day River Parade. Organized by Visit San Antonio River Walk and the Harp & Shamrock Society of Texas, the parade has been around since 1969. The parade consisted of 12 riverboats decked out with shades of green, shamrocks and lucky charms that flowed down the river accompanied by traditional Irish bagpipers. The river parade stretched down the River Walk from the Arneson River Theatre to the downtown portion. Later, the St. Patrick’s Day Street Fest and afterparty continued at Howl at the Moon. The party was open to all ages, and entertained by ‘80s cover band, Lon Duk Don from 1 to 4 p.m., and ended with a silent disco with 30 DJs rotating on eight turntables from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. It was an eventful celebration, so be sure to check out the festival in 2023 if it was missed this year. since 1969 continues for another joyous and green success
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT 13MARCH 21, 2022 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM Parade
The St. Patrick’s Day Festival, featuring The Harp & Shamrock Society of Texas in 2019, began and ended with the dyeing of the San Antonio River. | Source from www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
Makayla Amitrani, Opinion Editor
Zach’s account is flat out hilarious. I love watching videos of him and his husband, Carl. Their chemistry is so adorable that you can’t help but feel awe and a tad bit of jealousy. Plus, the fact that they’re a bit of eye candy doesn’t hurt either. Their relationship is simply put: #goals.” Jacob A. Henson, Culture & Entertainment Editor
Ariella has a large following that comes from her confidence in posting videos of her in swimsuits that highlights the fact that it does not matter what your body looks like. All bodies are beautiful and Ariella proves it to her audience, some of which are younger and gaining a great role model. Body positivity is very important and Ariella shares that with great confidence.”
This month, San Antonio hosted a threeday event on the historic River Walk. The Bud Light St. Patrick’s Day River Parade was on March 19, 2022 and prefaced with communal mini-events. On March 17 the City of San Antonio commenced the celebration by dyeing the River Walk green with 25 gallons of ecofriendly green dye from 1 to 3 p.m. The significance of the bright green water was in preparation for its upcoming parade day. The party continued the next day on Friday, March 18 with the St. Patrick’s Day Festival, 1 to 8 p.m. on La Villita Way in La Villita and was free to the public. This festival included live music, booths for food and drinks and little shopping booths. The third annual Tater-Tot Eating Contest also took place and was open for the first 10 registered contestants that were 18 years or older. Starting at 3:30 p.m. on Villita Way, the winner was invited onto a riverboat for theSt.parade.Mary’s University students also love to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Here is what a few students have to say about their favorite parts of the celebration. One student reminisced on her elementary school days when all of her fellow classmates made sure to wear green. “My favorite part of St. Patrick’s Day is how we all collectively agree on wearing green for the day,” Christina Gonzalez
Noel is a gym/body building influencer that promotes not only healthy living but awesome gym tips for people trying to lose weight while also getting rid of the negativity that resides within the workout community. Noel even goes so far as to incorporate comedy and even new low cal high protein recipes for people new to the gym community.” Andres Gonzalez, Advertising Manager
Maia has 7.7 million followers on TikTok where she posts videos with her identical twin baby girls, Scout and Violet. Her videos went viral when she would hold both babies with one hand while preparing their formula. Over time, many fans have nicknamed her babies funny names like Scotch and Vodka or Saturn and Venus. It’s always a guessing game to figure out which twin is which among fans. Maia provides realistic content on what it is like to be a single mom raising twin girls.” Mirabal, Multimedia
SOPHIA ANNE MUÑOZ STAFF WRITER
Adrianna
Editor Editors’ Choice: “Fave” accounts @ariellanyssa @noeldyzel_bodybuilder @zachdopson @maiaknight My favorite creator on TikTok has to be Julian. He can take any scene from any movie and recreate it in such a unique way! Watching Julian act as every single character in movie scenes is so entertaining and ridiculously funny.” Julissa Mariscal, Layout & Design Editor @Julianburzynski ““ “ “ “ Graphic by Jacob A. Henson
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Although March Madness has just begun, the women’s basketball season has come to a close. On Feb. 24, the women’s basketball team celebrated Senior Day as the team played against St. Edward’s University. Hannah Wilson (#41), who plays forward, led the team, scoring 14 points, eight boards and two blocked shots. Wilson is a ffh year senior from Fredericksburg, Texas. Wilson ended the season making St. Mary’s history, ranking third with 317 rebounds.
14 Women’s basketball
day EDITOR: MEGAN ANGELO | @STMURATTLERNEWS | MARCH 21, 2022SPORTS
Ariana Rosado (#14), a guard from Round Rock, Texas, slimly missed her frst double-digit scoring contest with a career-high nine boards and a team-high three assists. Rosado earned All-District all four seasons and scored her 1,000th career point as a junior, hitting her 1,500 point milestone in her fnal campaign. In her senior season, she was named the Ofensive MVP of the league. She graduated from Stony Point High School with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. With all of this in mind, the St. Mary’s Women’s Basketball team is in good hands. Tere can be a lot of pressure on incoming athletes, but these women have put their bodies and minds to the test on and of of the court. Te four seniors mentioned wrapped up the 2021-22 season leaving behind their legacy and passing on great skills to their teammates. recognizes their players at senior Seniors featured (L to R) Culiver, Wilson, Baker and Hardeman.
Wilson has an astounding record, ranking in points scored, double-double scoring, rebounds and free throws made. Wilson ends her collegiate basketball career having made 1,333 scored points, 137 blocked shots and 1,180 rebounds. Wilson is a ffh-year senior from Fredericksburg, Texas. On March 2, Wilson was awarded First-Team, and for the second straight season, was given AllDefensive Team Lone Star Honors. Wilson averages a double-double, scoring 11.3 points and 15.4 rebounds per game, for the third straight season. Wilson has a hot streak of posting 45 double-doubles, in addition to 37 against Minnesota State, an all-time career high. On Tursday, March 10, Wilson was All-Region Second-Team honors by the Division II Conference Commissioners’ Association. Not only has she shown dedication on the court, but Wilson has also fercely dominated her academics, making the Lone Star Spring Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Wilson was named a three-time All-Conference pick. Senior Night takes place for all sports teams during their last game of the season. Audrey Wandji was brought back to celebrate afer her senior day was canceled last year due to COVID-19. Wandji (#34), a guard from Houston, Texas, graduated last spring. During her fnal season at St. Mary’s, Wandji scored 12 points and made three feld goals against Oklahoma Christian on Feb. 27. Brianna Ford (#45), a junior guard from San Antonio, Texas was also recognized. Ford during her last season scored eight points against St. Martin’s on Nov. 23 and made four free throws against Minnesota State. Christina Baker (#24), forward player from Mansfeld, Texas performed four rebounds and an assist against St. Edward’s. Baker is a senior. Other highlights include her scoring 11 points at the Midwestern State game on Jan. 8 and fve feld goals against Texas A&MCommerce on Feb. 19. Mya Culiver (#10), a ffh year senior guard from Rockwell, Texas scored eight points, made three rebounds and served two assists. Culiver has scored 14 points and made fve feld goals against Cameron on Jan. 31. Culiver has also earned a spot for her academic excellence on the Lone Star Spring Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Sydney Hardeman (#23), a junior guard from Allen, Texas scored two three-pointers totaling her at 72 points for this season, taking fourth in StMU single season history. Other highlights include Hardeman scoring 31 points on Feb. 3 against Texas A&M International, with 11 out of 18 feld goal attempts made and six boards against Cameron on Jan. 31. Hardeman is another athlete who has shown academic integrity, making the Lone Star Spring Commissioner’s Honor Roll. With the departure of the seniors, it is important to shine a light on the freshmen that will follow. Faith Phillips (#22), a freshman from San Marcos, Texas is a forward who scored 13 points coming of the bench and snagged seven boards at the St. Edward’s game on Feb. 24 as the Rattlers outscored the Hilltoppers 40-39. Phillips also made four out of eight feld goals. In her high school career, Phillips tallied both 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds. Other accomplishments from this past season include 16 points scored and seven feld goals made against Cameron on Jan. 31 and 13 boards against Western New Mexico on Jan. 29. Phillips graduated in the top 10% of her class at San Marcos High School and has earned All-District honors three times as well as All-District honors all fourFreshmanseasons.
Graphics by Kasha Casiano and Adrianna Mirabal
Photo courtesy of Antonio Morano Photography
MEGAN ANGELO SPORTS EDITOR
SPORTS Esports levels up to join T e*gameHERS collegiate league Te benefts of signing up for intramural sports this spring
“It will keep our program a safe space for female gamers, and that’s what we want as a pro gram. We want to be inclusive to all.” Caitlin Hernandez senior English major “
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MARCH 21, 2022 | STMURATTLERNEWS.COM 15
MEGAN ANGELO AND OZZY ALVARADO SPORTS EDITOR AND STAFF WRITER
Angelo Oliva-Noeggerath from Here Comes Treble scoring against Thaddeus Davis from Showtyme.
MEGAN ANGELO SPORTS EDITOR
Te Rattlers Esports program took another step in the right direction afer joining the *gameHERs collegiate program which was announced on Feb. 23. Te *gameHERS program is a women-led collegiate community that provides the students with a plethora of opportunities to expand their knowledge in the gaming industry with career development, mentorship, internship and scholarship opportunities. Women in the esports world are ofen overlooked and go unrecognized for their accomplishments and eforts. Te *gameHERS program ofers a safe space for marginalized gamers who identify as women. “ Tey want female gamers to be included and have a voice within the gaming community, and that is something that is long overdue,” says senior English major, Cailtin Hernandez. Te mission of the St. Mary’s Esports teams specifcally is to continue to commit to building a space for women within esports. Tey have done a great job of doing this, as they are led by Director of Esports, Kaitlin Teniente. “She shared their mission with us, and it resonated with me as a female that plays video games,” says Hernandez. Teniente has worked hard to ensure that the Esports program at St. Mary’s creates an environment that women feel they can be a part of, and the numbers don’t lie. Te total number of women is 18, coaching staf included, making the total percentage of women in the program 37.5% for the 2021-22 academic year. St. Mary’s Esports is celebrating Women’s History month on their Instagram (@stmuesports) by putting a spotlight on some of their female athletes, from short interviews to highlighting their success in the program. Beginning in the Fall of 2020, St. Mary’s became the frst university in San Antonio to establish a varsity-level esports team in San Antonio. areasof to inwork shoutcasters, observers, producers or social media coordinators. Esports ofers great internship opportunities to undergraduate, graduate and even law students. Any enrolled student can participate as an athlete or a shoutcaster. Some games that are played include Fortnite, Halo Infnite, Starcraf II and Rainbow 6 Siege. “ Te *gameHERS [program] will help me move forward in my college career by helping me maintain my connection with the esports program as well as stay involved,” says Hernandez, who is the Student Lead of Broadcast Operations for the program. Esports hosts tryouts at the beginning of the fall and spring Currently,semesters.thereareno organization can count towards an internship or service hours. Te *gameHERS program has collegiate and standard Discord servers that women in gaming can join with their username or gamertag. Over 25 universities have joined this program. “It will keep our program a safe space for female gamers, and that’s what we want as a program. We want to be inclusive to all,” explains Hernandez. Be on the lookout for an Esports open house towards the end of March that aims to connect more with students and encourage diversity and equity on campus. St. Mary’s has implemented better ways of representation and showcasing diversity and inclusion, without sacrifcing their academic performance. For more information, contact the Director of Esports, Kaitlin Teniente at kteniente@ stmarytx.edu. With the return of in-person events and classes, the Athletics Department has opened registration for its spring intramural sports. Tis semester ofered indoor volleyball, 5 on 5 basketball, tennis, slow-pitch sofball and spikeball. Each season lasts a month, making it quite accessible for students who typically have a busy schedule. Team Captain of 5 on 5 men’s basketball team Here Comes Treble, Maxx Arizmendi, a senior music education major, is responsible for facilitating the team representing the music department. “Ever since I joined 5V5, I have been wanting to make a music department team; and it fnally happened,” said Arizmendi. Here Comes Treble, the music department’s team, played fraternity Lambda Chi’s team, Showtyme, on Monday, March 7. Te teams played against one another in two games lasting 30 minutes each. Te frst game ended 73-46 between Lambda Chi and the music department. Camaraderie could be seen on the court as the two teams played. Fellow musicians attended the game on Monday night and enjoyed watching their friends on the court. “It’s great to support my peers in an athletic atmosphere. It has been a great way to promote team bonding in and outside of the classroom,” said Savannah Palmer, sophomore music educationIntramuralmajor.sports ofer an array of sports and an opportunity for team building through practices and games. Te teams are co-ed and basketball meets on Monday nights starting at 6:00 p.m. to play two 30-minute games with two halves. All basketball games take place in the Alumni Athletics & Convocation Center. “Intramurals is a great place to meet other students you might not in your major,” says team captain of Lilo and Swish, graduate student Jake Gleinser. Other benefts of intramural sports include relieving stress, fnding a network and team building in a low commitment environment. “I think being a captain versus a player [kind of] changes commitment levels. As a captain, you’re usually a little more expected to show up. Besides that, it’s just sometimes a scramble to make sure enough people show up so the team doesn’t have to forfeit. Tere’s a captain meeting before each season to help make schedules so that a majority of your team can make them, but that can of course be hard to manage with players on the team that all have diferent commitments,” explains Gleinser. For many students, intramurals ofer a physical outlet to practice sportsmanship and decompress. Students have been encouraged to join by their fellow peers and have even recruited faculty. Dr. Matthew Mireles, who serves as the department chair of the Music Department, is the point guard for Here Comes Treble. “It’s been sixteen years since the music department had an intramural team to begin with, which was when Dr. Mireles was a student here,” says Arizmendi. Students can sign up on IMLeagues.com to register for a league and RSVP for games. “Watching my friends outside of a performance setting has inspired me to challenge my friends to create a sofball league at school,” said Skylar Tiner, junior music education major. Tis season, slow-pitch sofball is ofered and starts on March 28 for intramural sports, taking place at the Sofball Stadium. Tis will be a co-ed league. Other sports that are still open for registration are spikeball and co-ed tennis. Each league lasts for exactly one month, making it a relatively low-stakes commitment should students decide to participate. Students can learn more by contacting Carlos Salgado at 210431-5046.
Photo by Adrianna Mirabal Graphic by Kasha Casiano
What is your favorite memory about being a Marianist at St. Mary’s?
Meet the Marianists Q&A with the Marianist brothers at St. Mary’s University by Adrianna Mirabal
What is your favorite part of the charism?
Did you know that you wanted to go into the priesthood?
FEATURES EDITOR: ADRIANNA MIRABAL | @STMURATTLERNEWS | MARCH 21, 202216
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Photos by Adrianna Mirabal
Why did you choose to be Marianists out of all the different orders?
“I think that what attracts most people to us is what we call ‘family spirit,’ that’s a characteristic of our communities, schools and the archives. We work together. It is very much like family.”
“After college... I was at home living with my parents going through our diocesan newspaper and came across an ad for the Marianists. [It] was a very nicely designed ad that had a provocative headline that said, ‘Try Selling It All’ and it had a Volkswagen and skis and said ‘you have these things, what do you think about selling these for the pearl of great price and Christian community.’ I thought it was cool... and from there I continued on.”
“That we are here for them. We would like to offer to them the gift that we have been given. The other thing is, I would like to get to know the students better, but we’re not all attached to the university. I try to say hi to everyone who’s not listening to their headphones, some are shy, but I don’t want to interfere with what they might be doing. I guess I would hope that the students feel at home enough and get to know the Marianists.”
“The Marianists are a little differ ent in many ways... you join to be a member of the community, then after that, the community in dialogue with the individual says whether or not the person should go be ordained. That was one of my apprehensions about joining the Marianists, because I really felt called to be a priest. I knew how I felt with the Marianists. Then I kind of came to the conclu sion that I feel like I’m called to be a priest.”
What do you wish students knew about the Marianists?
“I don’t know if it’s my favorite or not, but when I graduated and got my diploma, it was blank! I had not turned in a library book, but I dropped it off on the weekend, so I had to go to the library and prove that I turned it in. The other thing was the long photo of our graduation class in 1960, one woman is in sitting in the front row and that was the only woman in our class.”