The Bridge - October 2017 by The Bridge News

PRINTED BY EL MAÑANA IN SUPPORT OF INDEPENDENT STUDENT WRITING

THE BRIDGE TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

FACEBOOK.COM/THEBRIDGESTUDENTNEWS

THEBRIDGESTUDENTNEWS.COM

OCTOBER 2017

DACA supporters take to the streets Dreamers march against Trump policy in Laredo

By Jose de Jesus Alvarado Associate Editor

In the heat of Trump’s backlash against DACA, student Dreamers and supporters took to the heated streets of Laredo to make a statement. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) supporters held the second of two protests Saturday, Sept. 16. This marching protest came only two weeks after President Donald Trump announced his intent to suspend the program. The Trump administration is quick to highlight the sixmonth period they provided for Congress to reach proper legislative solutions but many Dreamers across the country were forced to put their future on hold. “TAMIU has a significant number of students under the DACA program,” said Seven Flores, organizer of the march and recent Texas A&M International Univer-

sity graduate. “Many people do not realize how this all affects people directly [or indirectly], whether it be through friends, family or classmates. There are even times [when] some of these students do not even know they are undocumented.” As a result, a group of Laredoans of all ages decided to take part in a march beginning at the H-E-B parking lot on West Del Mar Boulevard. The march, organized by Movimiento Cosecha, was part of a non-violent nationwide movement fighting for the more than 11 million undocumented immigrants across the U.S. These DACA supporters began the march along Del Mar at 6 p.m. to the H-E-B on McPherson. Throughout their journey, many motorists on the busy street honked and gave thumbs up in favor of the protesters and their mission. The protest continued until around

Bridge | Jose de Jesus Alvarado

TAMIU alumna Ana Karen Contreras holds up a “Laredo for DACA” sign during Saturday evening’s marching protest, Sept. 16, along Del Mar Boulevard in Laredo. About 25 people made the trek.

8 p.m. with all protesters displaying banners and posters in favor of DACA or against other controversial laws, such as the anti-sanctuary city Texas SB 4. Despite the distance,

University remembers Robert Batey By Rebekah Rodriguez Managing Editor

ey family friend, spoke to The Bridge about their close Speeches, poems and and unique relationship. musical tributes, by those “I first met Bob when he who knew him, honored the was about four to five years memory of Robert “Bob” old,” he said. “This was at Batey during a recent serLaredo Little Theater. His vice. mom was very active in Friends, family and local community theater colleagues gathered Sept. 8 and Bob was a part of that in the Fine and Performing growing up. Since then, I’ve Arts Center Recital Hall seen him grow up to the to reflect on the life of the man he became.” former student and employ He began to mentor ee of Texas A&M InternaBatey in audio engineering tional University. Batey, 28, before taking him on as an passed away July 8. employee. While working Having with him, he discovered a witnessed firstlove for music hand the young at an early man’s incrediage, Batey ble work ethic. studied clas “His best sical guitar attribute was under menhow he became tor Gilberto one of, if not Soto. He later the best live auventured into dio technician acting, poetry in Laredo [and] and came to his attention be a beloved to detail and courtesy Armando X. Lopez desire to try and integral part of the and give the Robert Batey growing arts best product scene in Laredo. However, possible with what he had at his passion was not limited his disposal,” he said. to his own artistic works. Chavarria added that After his untimely passmany of his favorite meming, local artists spoke of the ories of Batey came from unwavering support they simply watching him interreceived from Batey, whethact with others. er in the form of promoting “He would go up to them on his social media someone and just say posaccounts, offering advice or itive things,” he said. “Bob attending the same events had a way of making sure he he frequently promoted. left a great memory on any Upon arriving, guests one. And he did it genuinely received stickers with an and modestly. I also must image of Batey playing his add that after he met Julia, guitar, head thrown back, his life became something with the words “Galactic even more amazing. His Frontera” at the bottom. positive spirit grew even This was a term he coined stronger with Julia by his for Laredo, where Batey was side.” a lifelong resident. Director Despite this loss, Chaof Theatre Facilities Adalvarria believes Batey’s berto Chavarria joked that legacy will live on through the story behind the term the many lives he touched. is to remain a secret only “Bob always believed known to Chavarria, Batey everyone’s soul was unique and Batey’s girlfriend, Julia and they should shine that Orduña. soul for all to see,” Chavar Chavarria, longtime Batria said. “Bob is also the

founder of Galactic Frontera. We should carry on his vision, his City of Laredo, his music.” Matt McVinnie was a close friend who worked and lived with Batey when they were students. “For me, the tribute brought some mixed emotions,” McVinnie said. “I was happy, sad, hopeful and inspired. I’ll admit this is the hardest thing I’ve ever dealt with but each time I see the people that come to these tributes, the people Bob reached, I am truly inspired and optimistic. I feel I can speak for over a dozen people when I say Bob will be remembered for his drive, passion and unwavering support for everything and anything artistic. Bob believed it was in our nature to create meaning in this chaotic world and find a voice.” Armando X. Lopez, a local attorney and Laredo Border Slam Poetry member, expressed similar sentiments. “I didn’t realize how much I still haven’t gotten over his presence,” Lopez said. “I was touched and happy to see the people he loved.” Lopez also spoke at the memorial service. “He saw all of us in a way that we sometimes didn’t see ourselves,” he said, “and he truly, truly was a generous, talented and loving soul.” Batey’s family was also present at the memorial. His sister Karol Batey felt the location and inclusion of art were perfect for honoring her brother. “I felt happy we were able to use art to remember Bobby,” Karol Batey said, “especially in that recital hall where Bob recorded so many artists he felt truly special about.” “He would babysit for

See BATEY, Page 2

supporters gathered in front of the McPherson H-E-B for a DACA teach-in session to educate the general public about what the program offers. According to a report

from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Texas is the second state with the largest initial and renewal cases totaling 243,420

See DACA, Page 2

Judge visits TAMIU By Matthew Balderas Bridge Staff Writer

Though touted as an informal Q&A format, Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina’s recent visit to TAMIU became more of a motivational speech. Texas A&M International University alumnus Tijerina’s speech also included a discussion on his life and personal views Thursday, Sept. 21, in the Student Center Ballroom, with pizza and drinks. He invited students to interrupt him with questions and indicated he would speak candidly when answering. Alex DeLeon, historical and political science graduate student, decided to get the Q&A back on track, “Have you changed your view on same-sex marriage and do you believe that not only should all citizens have equal protection under the law, but we should fight for citizens’ rights no matter what the expense?” Without hesitation, Tijerina responded, “My view has not changed and will not change and never changes because I have one God and one God only.” DeLeon’s question came

Bridge | Alberto Morelos

Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina spoke with TAMIU students who had the opportunity to ask the judge questions on Thursday, Sept. 21, at the TAMIU Student Center Ballroom.

from observing the judge’s decision to remove himself from performing marriages, following the U.S. Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage. Kimberly Tijerina, the judge’s spouse, clarified that the judge does not perform any marriages, to remain equal and ethical. Both Tijerina answers satisfied part of DeLeon’s question, the student later told The Bridge; however, they failed to see his concern when it came to the judge’s inability to recognize bias in regards to a particular group of people due to his religious beliefs. DeLeon said he questions Tijerina’s ability to serve the LGBT community of Laredo. DeLeon is not a member of the LGBT community but is an ally concerned for LGBT rights. Juan Ruiz, a member of the Political Action Committee and the LGBT community, responded to Tijerina’s same-sex marriage statement. “When confronted with sexual identity on political issues, he will stick to his guns and not sway his interest,” Ruiz said. When asked if he thought the judge would uphold the law, equally and fairly in other matters, regardless of sexual orientation, Ruiz believes Tijerina will uphold the law and rule in an unbiased way, with the exception of same-sex marriage. Student Government Association President Gabriel M. Martinez was one of the event organizers. “I believe the role of SGA is to bring the information to the students and make sure they not only feel politically informed, but also well represented within the university,” Martinez said. Ruiz said he was happy with the attendance, wheth-

See JUDGE, Page 2

TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

NEWS

OCTOBER 2017

THE BRIDGE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

DACA

BATEY

JUDGE

Continued from Page 1

approved to date. According to a recent Pew Research Center study, “DACA has shielded nearly 790,000 young authorized immigrants from deportation.” In a 2014 Pew Research Center estimate, “about 1.1 million unauthorized immigrants are eligible for the benefits.” Protests like these are evidence that the Laredo DACA community will not remain silent while faced with uncertain futures.

me and a lot of the time he would be in that hall with Lucy (his niece) by his side in the [sound] booth. So I felt it was a beautiful way to remember his spirit.” Lastly, she urged others to continue her brother’s legacy of compassion. “I want Bobby to be remembered for what he left on this earth,” Batey said, “mainly his love he left behind for all of us. Bobby loved fiercely and unapologetically. It’s something all of us should strive to have every day of our lives. You never know whose life you might be able to affect by making this little change in yours.” With TAMIU crowds gathering and tributes filling his Facebook page, it is clear Batey’s humble nature affected Laredo in more ways than he ever realized.

(Above, from left) Ana Salinas Valencia, Franco Zamora and Sarah Reyes march Sept. 16 against DACA changes. (Below) Xochitl Moya holds up a sign that reads, “No human being is illegal!” during the march.

Photos by Jose de Jesus Alvarado

Continued from Page 1

Bridge | Alberto Morelos

Judge Tano Tijerina er they were there for pizza or to learn. He also was disappointed in the lack of audience questions. He hopes when more political figures visit TAMIU, students will be more comfortable in asking hard-hitting questions such as the one DeLeon presented. Ruiz also appreciated the judge’s motivational speech and believes the students who attended were motivated with something to take away from the session.

Frozen in time

Bridge | T. Rob Brown

A new statue of J.O. Walker Sr. (1888-1967), Walker family patriarch, greets students outside the Fine and Performing Arts Center recently.

Social media saves By Alberto Morelos Associate Editor

While the force of Hurricane Harvey was quite visible, an almost unseen digital force helped behind the scenes with rescue and recovery efforts. Heavy rainfall from the remains of Harvey flooded several counties in East Texas, displacing approximately 30,000 Texans, according to a statement from FEMA, and thousands waited to be rescued in late August. Official rescue efforts weren’t enough to get to everyone who needed help. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Administrator Brock Long called on the public to visit the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster website, www.nvoad. org, to see how they could help. Other Texans opted to help by using their personal boats to help rescue those stranded. Those too far away to help, donated money, food, clothing and other necessities. The locations for donations, calls for help from victims and assistance for the rescue efforts made their way around social media via concerned users and official sources. The popular grocery store chain H-E-B also made its presence known on social media and in the areas affected as it shared photos of its cavalcade of trucks heading to assist

affected areas. The trucks were equipped with kitchens to prepare food for those in need. However, people on social media believed not everyone was doing enough to help the cause. Rawstory.com broke a story on Aug. 28 about Joel Osteen, a Christian televangelist and pastor of Lakewood Church, a megachurch in Houston, one of the cities most affected by the flooding. The site reported that Twitter and Facebook users were criticizing Osteen after tweeting out a call for prayers and attempting to raise money for the displaced while keeping his church, which seats 16,800, closed to the public. The church opened its doors later that day only after widespread sentiment that Osteen and his church weren’t doing enough to give back, went viral. A source from within the church sent out an image to writer Charles Clymer, who posted the image revealing the church had bought air mattresses and were setting them up in preparation to open its doors. “We will continue to be a distribution center to those in need,” Osteen said in response to the criticism. “We are prepared to house people once shelters reach capacity. Lakewood [Church] will be a value to the community in the aftermath of this storm.”

news In brief

Analyzing the North Korea threat By Jonathan Ramos Editor-in-Chief

With current news reports of North Korea’s sixth missile test this year, it seems as though everyone is on high alert. But, what exactly is there to fear? The history between the United States and North Korea has been a tumultuous journey filled conflicting ideology. This great divide began after World War II, when the communist regime took command over the Axis-controlled territory above the 38th parallel. This action tore Korea into two separate entities. With the U.S. influence on South Korea and the Russian influence on North Korea, differences in political ideology have been the leading cause of the current situation at hand. In the U.S., the larger concern is if nuclear weapons can make it across the Pacific Ocean to strike the mainland. Analysts say

North Korea’s nuclear warheads have the capability of reaching the West Coast and may have the possibility of reaching major cities like Chicago and Denver. The chances of North Korea actually taking the plunge and striking the U.S. is still unknown. The Kim Jong-un reign has caused an uptick in speculation by U.S. officials because his temperamental attitude, unlike that of his predecessors, has set off an unusual amount of missile tests. Ji-won Kim, Texas A&M International University assistant professor of communication, spent a few weeks in Seoul this summer to visit friends and family. She states that although people are concerned, many have grown accustomed to the threats made by their neighbors to the north. The increased threat of nuclear action has made the political climate there a bit unbalanced. Older generations have

TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

THE BRIDGE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Faculty Adviser Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Associate Editors

T. Rob Brown Jonathan Ramos Rebekah Rodriguez Jose De Jesus Alvarado Danny Zaragoza

Staff Members

Matthew Balderas Alesa Estrada Alberto Morelos Maria Vazquez

Go Beyond experiences record participation From Staff Reports A record 285 university employees participated in the Go Beyond Campaign for Texas A&M International University. The campaign, which recently ended, generated $45,408. This was almost

$10,000 more than last year’s result. These funds benefit TAMIU and “areas of greatest need,” which faculty can determine when they make a pledge. Funds also benefit international experiences, the library, student scholarships and more.

been urging the government to take action. The younger generations, on the other hand, believe they should not be getting involved unless absolutely necessary. This contrast in perspective has resulted in a major drop in president Moon Jae-in’s approval rating. Many citizens believe any action taken by South Korea must be the direct result of instructions from the U.S. It is in the United States’ hands whether or not they should take action. With Trump’s claims to terminate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), it is unlikely South Korea would be motivated to play a larger role in this conflict. It now seems we are at a standstill and will have to wait on two hot-headed individuals to see what will come of it. Hopefully things will pan out in a calculated manner, rather than an abrupt plan of action.

Share your stories and photos with us: email: thomas.brown@tamiu.edu The Bridge student newspaper is now available in various locations. Articles, stories and interviews herein are the solely written expression of the students and do not reflect the core institutional values of Texas A&M International University.

THE BRIDGE

OPINION

OCTOBER 2017

Gambling with lives: Trump’s hand In our view The thought that someone would stoop so low as to forbid the entrance of unfortunate children, just to gain a bargaining chip, is unacceptable. The worst part about President Donald Trump’s current “temper tantrum,” is that if the U.S. Congress does not come to terms with his proposal, current benefactors of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy are at risk of being deported. According to a recent Pew Research Center study, “DACA has shielded nearly 790,000 young authorized immigrants from deportation.” In a 2014 Pew Research Center estimate, “about 1.1 million unauthorized immigrants are eligible for the benefits.” Trump continues his attempts to tarnish former President Barrack Obama’s legacy. The president’s first attempt began with

his “repeal and replace Obamacare” campaign, which flopped with neither side coming to an agreement. Then he began to dismantle established relationships with foreign diplomats by threatening to renegotiate the terms of mutualy beneficial trade agreements. His newest bone-headed decision is to rescind the DACA immigration policy, in an attempt to bolster border security. This policy was established during the Obama administration to allow 800,000 young minds to legally work and study in the U.S. without fear of deportation. This group of young people came to be known as “Dreamers,” named after the Dream Act. However, Trump has chosen to revoke access for any future children entering this country and receiving this privilege. This seems like a political tactic, used to get under the skin of many Democrats and Repub-

Letter from the editor Hello everyone, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you Jonathan to the Ramos first issue of the 2017 fall semester. My name is Jonathan Ramos and I am the new editor-in-chief of The Bridge. I am very excited to be starting off my reign with a number of outstanding articles, provided by some of TAMIU’s best student journalists. As you may know, this is a student-run newspaper but it would not be possible without the guidance of our adviser Thomas Robert Brown, also known as T. Rob Brown. Brown is new to the university and is eager to bring out the best in our staff. I am grateful to the senior staff on board. With their help, the paper is running like a welloiled machine. Now to get into some of the news issues we’ve been experiencing and covering. The month of September was quite eventful in terms of big news.

We saw the aftermath and storm chasing of hurricanes Harvey and Irma, numerous counts of political back-andforth with the proceedings of the DACA rescindment and the NFL season making its return. After a few months on hiatus, The Bridge is back and ready to bring you the big stories, as well as informing our readers of all the information for upcoming events on campus and in Laredo. As a student-run newspaper, we are always excited to see new faces in our office and out on campus. With the new year, comes new opportunities to explore things you might not have considered before. I extend an open invitation to any and all individuals hoping to learn what it takes to be a part of The Bridge. I hope everyone enjoys reading the articles as much as we enjoyed reporting and bringing them together. The future of The Bridge depends on eager readers ready to get their hands on the next issue.

The next issue of The Bridge will be released in early November

licans who refused to side with Trump. Currently it seems Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., have come to want an agreement with Trump to extend the protection of DACA recipients, in an attempt to subdue the damage. There are currently three propositions on the table: The Bridge Act would extend amnesty for 3 years, the Recognizing America’s Children (RAC) Act would give 5 years to children

who came here before age 16, and the newest version of the DREAM Act would provide the most coverage for these young people. The DREAM Act would allow for children who entered the U.S. before age 18 to attain conditional residence and, after going through a few requirements, be able to get a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Although the Dream Act is by far the most logical choice to foster the numerous people

affected by rescindment, many members of the Republican party are opposed to providing any form of amnesty to the recipients of the DACA policy. This is extremely worrisome because it would require Pelosi and Schumer to give up a great deal to reach an agreement. Unfortunately, if this proposition follows Trump’s other attempts at policy-making, this could be an uphill battle for proponents of the DREAM Act.

Ready for everything, master of none Four years ago, I stepped onto the grounds of Texas A&M InternaRebekah tional University with Rodriguez a fresh set of notebooks in my backpack, a shiny new student ID card (complete with an awkward photo) and a brave little heart. Having been an honor roll student in high school, I was sure that would be easier than passing the TAKS exam. Maybe my workload would increase a bit but in previous years, writing essays and reading ahead came second nature to me, so I was sure I would be on the dean’s list in no time. I had major plans for the next four years, like being involved in as many campus organizations and activities as possible, while also completing internships that spiced up my résumé. I was going to take my driving exam and get my own car. Oh, and there had to be room for a college sweetheart somewhere in there. I was going to conquer this new territory, I just knew it! ...I cried on the second day. Things didn’t get easier during the next four years. I had to take a year of remedial math. I gained, lost, then regained a lot of weight. I went through periods of financial hardship. I never got past making honor roll. I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety, which affected my studies. I got rejected for several jobs. I still don’t have my driver’s license

or a car. I grew apart from people I thought would be lifelong friends. Most of all, I realized early on I wasn’t ready at all for college or adulthood, no matter how much I wanted to believe I was. Though I loved learning, I hated school because it was just another uphill battle of trying to prove myself to others; naturally, I felt the best solution to the problem was to run from it, like the child I still was. As I got closer to the end of my senior year, I also felt another familiar feeling rising: the feeling of wanting more. I’d had a few professors speak to me about applying for grad school in previous semesters, and I began to entertain the idea. Still, my heart wasn’t set on it, even after applying and getting accepted. I wasn’t sure I could handle two to three more years of academic stress, and I didn’t want to risk becoming a “professional student” as I’d heard family members refer to graduate students. Yet that changed when I started reevaluating my professional and personal goals. I realized the chances of earning a livable wage in Laredo with my degree were slim. I also knew there was still so much I wanted to learn and share, and a small window of opportunity to just go for it. So I did. Which brings us to today. I am currently enrolled in the Master’s in Communication program, where I’m pursuing a concentration in Border and Latin American Media Studies. I’m

one of the youngest and newest students in the program. So far, it’s been exciting and also a little terrifying. I alternate between feeling extremely confident now that I have a degree, but also overwhelmed at how much I have yet to learn. In a strange way, that’s been one of my favorite things about grad school. Starting from zero once again is testing my ability to thrive and adapt, just as my undergraduate years did. I’d like to think that I’m doing alright so far. Though this may sound incredibly cornier than an elote, I owe much of my success to my struggles; they have all been incredibly humbling experiences that forced me to choose what kind of adult I want to be. I know there are plenty more coming my way. While I have an impressive set of skills I’ve developed over the years, starting my master’s degree has proven that I’m a master of none of them. There’s no telling if I will ever fully master everything I’m supposed to, but I’m starting to focus less on meeting the standards or desires of others and focusing more on creating and exceeding those things for myself. This is the mindset I hope to carry with me throughout graduate school, because the moment that I chose to do so, I found myself feeling free. I can’t think of anything more freeing than choosing my future on my own terms and in my own time.

TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

EDUCATION

OCTOBER 2017

THE BRIDGE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Bondoc, Verastigui study abroad in London By Rebekah Rodriguez Managing Editor Over the summer, TAMIU students continued to study and represent the university in various locations across the globe. Two of these students, Benito Bondoc and Jessica Verastigui, had the opportunity to study abroad in London, England, during Summer Session I. Bondoc and Verastigui were enrolled in the course ENGL 4325: Shakespeare’s Plays in Pop Culture taught by Ursula Klein. This course gave students the opportunity to expand their knowledge and appreciation of the famous playwright and his work outside of a traditional classroom. Included in the itinerary were outings to historic landmarks, including the Globe Theatre, where many of Shakespeare’s most renowned works were (and still are) performed.

Both students shared their reasons for choosing this program. “The course was covering some of Shakespeare’s most famous plays in modern time. As a theater minor I thought it would be an exciting course to take,” Verastigui said. The trip marked her second visit to London. She previously traveled to the United Kingdom in 2013 with the J.W. Nixon High School Thespian Society; unfortunately, she was only able to visit the city for two days before leaving for Edinburgh, Scotland, for the remainder of her trip. Bondoc, also a theater arts minor and Nixon Thespian Society alumni, echoed her statements. “London is a hub for theater,” he said. “I found myself unable to pass up this opportunity. This was also my first time studying abroad and I was excited to

Submitted photo

Jessica Verastigui, left, and Benito Bondoc pose with quotes in London.

Submitted photo

Jessica Verastigui and Benito Bondoc pose for a snapshot at the Roman baths in Somerset, England.

analyze Shakespeare and the restoration period in their places of origin.” Determined to visit the mecca of their studies, they spent the months leading up to their departure fundraising and working to make the trip possible. “The biggest hurdle I faced before the trip was the financial expenses,” Verastigui said. “Not only did I have to figure out how to pay for the study abroad trip, but also for the tuition and fees, airfare, and food.” Financial concerns are a common struggle for stu-

dents studying abroad. “One hurdle was making sure I was well equipped to make the trip, including financially,” Bondoc said. “There is a lot of planning that goes into staying

Submitted photo

Benito Bondoc, left, and Jessica Verastigui pose for a selfie with movie star John Boyega (“Star Wars”) during their London visit.

in another country for a month so organizing and reorganizing became a common process. I would say, overall, my biggest hurdle was convincing myself it was all possible.” Both agreed the stress associated with planning their trip was well worth it, given the once-in-a-lifetime experiences they shared. “Being able to see a modernized version of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in the Globe Theatre was phenomenal,” Bondoc said. “The experience, the theater, the groundlings and the play were all ingredients to an unforgettable experience.” Other experiences included seeing and meeting John Boyega (Finn, “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens”) after his performance in Woyzeck at the Old Vic Theatre. Now back home and at Texas A&M International University, they strongly encourage other students to consider studying abroad, while also remembering what it takes to make these goals a reality. “Plan ahead for optimal enjoyment,” he said. “Plan for everything you will do on the daily, for big events you want to experience and everything in between. Try not to come back wishing you had made time for certain things.”

Tech Talk: rise of all-in-one ‘super apps’ into everyday lives By Jonathan Ramos Editor-in-Chief Long ago are the days when you could casually log into your social media for a few minutes a day and be done with it. Now, it’s likely you will find yourself on your phone hours after you promised to stop procrastinating. This plummet down the social media black hole is not going away anytime soon. Social networking

companies like Facebook, Snapchat and Google intentionally dominate our attention. Although the uprising of tech corporations into our dystopian overlords is not happening anytime soon, it’s likely these companies will continue to expand their hold. One of China’s largest social media companies, WeChat, has become China’s largest super app. The company has continued to

innovate and strengthen its reach. Some interesting features available on the app include: video conferencing, automatic translation, hospital pre-registrations, visa renewal, a heat map that shows crowd density and a section for dating. WeChat Pay allows users to pay bills, order goods and services, transfer money to other users, pay in stores, pay traffic fines and for transportation usage. Super apps are social

media platforms that merge numerous web-based tools into one place. Although it may sound unfamiliar, We Chat is a major component of daily life for the people of China. This could be because of Chinese government censorship preventing its citizens from using Western Hemisphere social media apps. This obstacle created a demand for a China-based social media app. It has many features comprising

all of the essential daily needs. But, most importantly, it is changing the way people are communicating. Will super apps become the exclusive form of online communication here, dominating the Western Hemisphere, or are they just a passing fad in China? WeChat has set new ground in technology and may influence users and creators, in terms of what is possible in the future of the social media field.

Stanford professor talks immigration, US way of life in lecture series By Matthew Balderas Bridge Staff Writer Recently, the public discourse has been focused on immigration issues, such as Trump’s wall and the recent changes to DACA. Tomás Jiménez, a Stanford associate professor of sociology, spoke on campus Sept. 19 about his new publication “The Other Side of Assimilation: How Immigrants are Changing American Life.” Jiménez spoke at the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall to students and enthusiasts. The book has been described in reviews as “brilliant” and “a game changer” on the reversal of immigrants and its effects on the

“established American.” “How many of you put up a Christmas tree?” he asked. “When you do, do you think, ‘This is so cool we are celebrating the German heritage of the United States’?” While this might not be most Americans’ thought process, it is an example of how we assimilate to immigrant contributions. Given the current political climate on immigration under the current administration, one would not find it hard to believe why so many would find Jiménez’s book so intriguing. Jokingly, in the middle of his presentation, he stopped to look at his watch and asked, “Can you believe I went 45 minutes without

news In brief

Student, faculty recognitions From Staff Reports

KLRN students produce newscast Students and Assistant Professor Ju Oak Kim, Department of Psychology and Communication, produced the first newscast of the semester, created in the TAMIU-KLRN Studio, part of the KLRN Student Reporting Lab, and is available for viewing at www.facebook. com/KLRNnews/videos/1885090065086307/.

Faculty documentary The documentary, “Rhapsody on the Rio,” featuring Assistant Professor Colin Campbell’s composition, has been nominated for the Lone Star Chapter Regional Emmy Award in the Documentary-Topical category.

$29k for research The Second Annual Alzheimer’s Walk was recently held on campus. There was a record turnout by the community, raising more than $29,000 in research funding.

mentioning [President] Donald Trump?” The room erupted with laughter over the irony. Despite the controversial topic, Jiménez was able to keep his presentation on track by revealing his findings and keeping the conversation factual and informative. This still did not detour a Nepal international student from asking what his thoughts were on Trump’s immigration views. “Don’t get me started on Donald Trump,” he responded. “We will be here all night.” Then, his tone grew more serious as he said, “I don’t believe he appreciates immigration as much as he should.”

The student agreed with Jiménez by smiling and nodding his head, shaking his hand and then posed with him for a picture. In a traditional sense, the definition of assimilation is the process of adapting or adjusting to the culture of a group or nation. It may also include the state of being adapted and in most cases, it is the minority group adjusting to the dominant group. Following that, a female student confronted Jiménez about his idea of assimilation proposed in the book of the dominant group adjusting to the minority. Jiménez agreed with her but then divulged his idea of assimilation, saying his

inspiration came from the early definition of the Chicago School of Sociology. The school defined assimilation as an interpenetration of groups until they see each other on like terms; without specifying which group adjusted to the other. In a booming and commanding voice, Killam Library Director Douglas M. Ferrier, who opened the night’s Presidential Lecture Series, asked for a round of applause for the distinguished Jiménez and presented him with a Texas A&M International University gift, which he opened on stage. It revealed a leather-bound notebook with the TAMIU insignia, which he graciously accepted.

Faculty author numerous publications From Staff Reports More than 25 faculty members were honored Tuesday evening, Oct. 10, for recently-published works. The Texas A&M International University Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library hosted a “Faculty Author Book Recognition Event” in the Helen Richter Watson Gallery. This free event was open to the public. Faculty authors were recognized for published works from 2010-2017. Published in 2017 Frances P. Bernat, Lola Norris, Jerry D. Thompson,

Mehnaaz Momen, Jacqueline Mayfield, Milton Mayfield and Kathryn Klein. Published in 2016 John Emory Dean, Robert Haynes, Peter Fuseini Haruna, Manuel Broncano, Kamal Dean Parhizgar, Roberto Heredia, Kathryn Klein and Anna B. Cieślicka. Published in 2015 Kamal Dean Parhizgar (two), Roberto R. Heredia, Suzette Bishop, Jerry. D. Thompson, Peter Fuseini Haruna and Anna B. Cieślicka. Published in 2014 José Cardona-López (two), Manuel Broncano, Di-

ana Linn, James Bryan Cornelius, Roberto R. Heredia and Kamal Dean Parhizgar. Published in 2013 Kelly Frailing, Mark Menaldo and Frances P. Bernat. Published in 2012 Suzette Bishop, Christopher J. Ferguson and José Cardona-López. Published in 2011 Jerry D. Thompson. Published in 2010 Robert Haynes, Dean Champion, Kelly Frailing, Judith Warner, Jeffrey Cornelius-White, Christopher J. Ferguson and Frances P. Bernat.

TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

THE BRIDGE

FEATURES

OCTOBER 2017

INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Student creates modern beauty with a vintage touch By Rebekah Rodriguez Managing Editor On a warm Saturday afternoon in Laredo, Ruth Castañeda sits at the desk in her dorm room surrounded by a variety of creams, extracts and powders. It is in this makeshift lab that Castañeda creates custom-made foundations, lipsticks, eye pigments, beauty oils and kajal (a type of charcoal-based eyeliner originating in South Asia) by hand. After carefully measuring, mixing and stirring a combination of the ingredients on her table, she turns around and proudly shows off the final product: homemade foundation. She then applies a small amount onto the back of her hand, demonstrating how seamlessly it blends into her skin. The foundation is just one of several products available in her makeup line, 90s Baby Cosmetics. Castañeda, a junior psychology major, explained she developed a love for cosmetics at an extremely young age. “ [I was] literally a year old,” she said. “I used to eat my mom’s cold cream and pretend to apply makeup when she did. By the time I was two, I was going through her makeup and wearing it to the point that it later became ‘mine.’” As time passed, she

Courtesy Ruth Castañeda

Ruth Castañeda

became more interested in creating her own looks and began testing out different styles on herself and friends. However, she was limited when it came to finding products that did not irritate her sensitive skin. This is when she began experimenting with natural ingredients to create her own products. For Castañeda, it is a labor of love and an artistic endeavor in itself, but a rewarding one nonetheless. “The satisfaction I get from making the cosmetics is that it’s therapeutic to me,” Castañeda said. “It’s a way of art form that I can actually get dirty with in terms of testing the shades and applying the actual product on others. I love seeing different splats of pigment and mica on my attire. It’s a kick I get out of being an artist.” She pointed out that

depending on the client’s request, a single lipstick tube can take up to four hours to make. She explained the process of receiving and working on an order. “Once the decision has been made on the shade, tone and final look, I start to make the product myself,” Castañeda said. “The right measurements, temperature and being patient is key. The product I get the most requests on are my natural lipsticks. They are made of beeswax, jojoba oil, grape seed oil, pigments and micas as well as peppermint for the nice cool effect. All of these materials have been tested on myself and friends so [there’s] no animal testing.” She offered a clear view of her unique creative muses and knack for perfection. “The inspiration tends to come from music. I’m a ‘vibe’ kind of person,” she said. “Whatever song I tend to hear, at times I imagine the artist and try to make a shade similar to their aura. One of the lipsticks I make is called ‘Sri Lanka’ and it came from M.I.A.’s song ‘Borders.’ The marigold, reds and oranges really popped into my head. So one Friday evening I sat down until it was done. My best friend was there and she can tell you it took me four tries to get it where I wanted it to be.”

However, running her own business has not been without its difficulties. On several occasions, she has experienced clients not showing up to pick up or pay for their product. “People don’t understand the work and effort that one puts to creating something like that,” Castañeda said. Similarly, getting her foot in the door and being taken seriously as an entrepreneur has also been a challenge. “Another issue is people not willing to open up to try the product,” she said. “I’ve actually had a lot of people throw shade at me and tell me that I won’t make it, and that I’m not ‘legit’ online and in person. It’s frustrating that you have to prove yourself more because you’re independent.” Despite these setbacks, she remains determined to grow her business by advertising her products online with the help of friends, of-

Courtesy Ruth Castañeda

Some of the lipstick shades offered by 90s Baby Cosmetics

ten inviting them to model and sample her products. She has plenty of advice for budding entrepreneurs and makeup artists like herself. “Don’t try to be perfect,” she said. “It just constrains you. Learn to be honest with yourself and how to humble yourself. Be vulnerable with your artwork. Be original in your own aesthetics. Use your connections wisely and take risks when necessary. You have to push yourself in ways others won’t. Overall, you have to be cutthroat but also nurture those around you. It’s all about tough love and when to apply it to yourself and later on to others.” Even with 90s Baby Cosmetics still in its infancy and a full courseload this semester, she still has major plans to further grow her brand. From creating new shades in the immediate future to finishing up her bachelor’s degree and pursuing additional education that will expand her knowledge of the industry, there is little doubt 90s Baby Cosmetics is bound to grow in the years to come. Interested persons may find her products at www. etsy.com/shop/90sBabyCosmetics. They may also follow @90sbabycosmetics on Instagram to stay updated on new products.

Pan American Courts: Laredo’s unique variety venue By Alesa Estrada Bridge Staff Writer

Canseco and Curley Castillo. “[We do this because] this is who we are, these are With local food trucks, our roots,” Canseco said. the Musa art gallery and “At the end of the day, we Cultura Beer Garden offerare Laredoans so we do it ing their clientel a unique the way we like to do it with Laredo experience, the Pan a little bit of what everyone American Courts is known else wants and we come for its hotel and cafe built in up with creative ways on 1964. making it more than what It’s also known as an Laredo has already. [The outdoor venue for local reason we play these songs artists and musicians to is] to define our essence host entertainment events, together.” such as the monthly mid The band town block was introparties where duced by you can find friends Val local merand Chris, chants who from Caffe offer products Dolce, and along with have been food truck performing owners and DJs. Bridge | Alesa Estrada there since late June. On Sept. Jorge Quijano wears a sombrero They currentduring Noche de Fiesta Sept. 16, at 16, the Pan Pan American Courts during part of ly play every American other ThursCourts, 3301 Hispanic Heritage Month. day. Canseco San Bernarsaid they enjoy playing rock, do, hosted Noche de Fiesta pop and contemporary muin honor of Hispanic Herisic plus are currently worktage Month, featuring local ing on bringing Spanish band Man Crush Monday. music to their audiences. The band consists of Carlos

He also said they post updates and events on their website ManCrushMonday. com. Lately, the band has been working on releasing their first music video and creating original music. Along with playing at local venues, Man Crush Monday spends time at Perfect Timing Studio, locally owned by Castillo. Canseco said they host events there to bring out local students to play. “We have a recording studio where we focus on artist development, mastering, private lessons and we will soon be bringing summer classes,” he said. Along with the beer garden, food trucks and other events hosted at the courts, co-owners Pancho Santos and Jorge López bring to Laredo their art gallery MUSA. The gallery is located behind Cultura Beer Garden. “My friend Jorge and I started this space solely to expose our community to contemporary art happening around the state and

Bridge | Alesa Estrada

Carlos Canseco plays guitar with Man Crush Monday for Noche de Fiesta Saturday night, Sept. 16 at Pan American Courts. The event was part of Hispanic Heritage Month.

across our border,” Santos said. “It’s an artist-run, non-traditional, non-commercial space that functions outside the confines of the gallery system. “In a nutshell, it will provide contemporary artists a place to be experimental and free in their practice without limitations or without imposing community standards. We hope to show conceptual art, performance art, video installations, light installations, new media, contemporary paintings/

sculpture, etc.” Many patrons come for the entertainment variety. “I like going because they have a really good collection of beer, the ambiance is really relaxing, the food offered is very good and they always have a good selection of live music,” local Sandy Dávila said. Pan American Courts shares all its events on social media, such as Facebook, where interested persons can be notified of the latest events.

TAMIU instructors showcase talent outside classroom

By Jonathan Ramos Editor-in-Chief

Students were offered an opportunity to see their professors demonstrate talent outside of the classroom. The Fine and Performing Arts Center Recital Hall opened its doors Friday,

Sept. 15, to showcase the semester’s first concert. The International Chamber Music Concert, mainly composed of Texas A&M International University music instructors, gave a free, and open to the public, 90-minute performance.

Assistant Professor James Moyer, band director and interim chair of the Fine and Performing Arts Department, talked about improvised entrances toward the end of the show. “We wanted to keep a club kind of atmosphere,

so it really balances out the classical part of the program,” Moyer said. He voiced concern over the missing bass player, saying he was worried they “would be a little off” without that band member but was thankful they were able to substitute with the organ and give a memorable final performance. The concert featured a variety of musical genres, including a piece sang by Dana Crabtree, vocal instructor, in the 817-seat auditorium. Associate Professor

Yu-Mei Huang has been organizing this event for a few years now and the performances are constantly changing. As new faces arrive, styles change. The Fine and Performing Arts Department will bring students new shows throughout the year. October features a few shows, but November offers numerous events, including a theatrical play directed by Assistant Professional Gilberto Martinez Jr., dance and music recitals, as well as a few professional musicians, and more.

Bridge | Jonathan Ramos

From left, Associate Professor Yu-Mei Huang, pianist, Instructor Dana Crabtree, singer, and Associate Professor Susan Berdaul, flutist, finish taking a bow during the International Chamber Music Concert Friday night, Sept. 15, in the Fine and Performing Arts Building.

Bridge | Jonathan Ramos

Musicians, from left, Senior Lecturer Jerry Quintero, along with Assistant Professors Oswaldo Zapata and James Moyer perform in the Recital Hall.

6 OCTOBER 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

THE BRIDGE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

‘Sweet Somalings’ art exhibit opens

Bridge | Alesa Estrada

Sarah Fox, an artist from San Antonio, explains interesting facts about her artwork on display in the Sweet Somalings exhibition in the Fine Arts Building Thursday evening, Sept. 14. Fox used cow teeth and taxidermy eyes in the installation of this mixed media. Melissa Coronado and other students view “Lick and Nuzzle.”

By Alesa Estrada Bridge Staff Writer Art patrons can submerge themselves into the never-before- seen world of the Sweet Somaling children. The gallery exhibit introduces whimsical creatures that are in-part human, animal and plant at the Fine and Performing Arts Building. Sarah Fox, artist and teacher from San Antonio, created the work for the new exhibit titled “Sweet

Somalings,” displayed on the second floor. The works include installations, wax castings, mixed media, paintings, stop-motion animation and music. Fox “births” her children into a world where beauty is redefined and the possibilities of biology are limitless. “[I had] ideas of these little genetic mistakes and what they would look like,” Fox said, describing her creations. When entering the exhibition, patrons will notice

the unique forms of the Sweet Somaling children. Some may feel as if transported to another world where the air changes and their steps become lighter. In the background, a melody plays. “The music was a collaboration with my friend and fellow artist Jared Tice,” Fox said. “I had made these little music boxes a while back which were based on heartbeats from babies that were born with fetal heart conditions. Then I gave all

the music boxes to Jared, he’s a professional musician as well as being an artist, and he made this really beautiful whole composition with them.” The composition, paired with Fox’s stop-motion animation, is located toward the back of the room where viewers travel through her experiences and healing. Fox said her process begins with a collage, then she chooses what medium to use, be it animated, wax sculpture or painting. Her unique style originates from her childhood and later experiences. “My most-recent work is because of a lot of my health problems,” she said. “I can’t have children. I have had a lot of miscarriages and it’s taken a different route.” As a child, she underwent several surgeries which challenged her to redefine standards of beauty from hegemonic ones.

Fox said her inspiration is, “about being in a body that doesn’t function the way a healthy body does” and her later attempts to have children resulting in miscarriages. “The young characters, like the little piglets and the little wax boys, those are kind of me imagining what these children may have been able to look like if they were able to live in some other world where the rules of gravity and the rules of our own biology don’t necessarily hold true,” she said. The title of her series, Fox said, comes from, “‘soma-’ meaning ‘of the body’ so these are all creatures that are forced to reckon with these abnormal bodies and find their peace with it. So, calling them that instead of just calling them creatures, I thought it sounded a little more tender.” Students attended the opening event Sept. 14 at the gallery. “When looking at the wax characters, I felt almost as if I was in her womb,” TAMIU student Yvette Monic Medellin said after viewing the gallery. The exBridge | Alesa Estrada hibit will be displayed until “Honey Finn Wax,” one of the works by Sarah Fox on Nov. 2. display in the Sweet Somalings exhibition

Bringing it back: Local band releases vinyl record By Rebekah Rodriguez Managing Editor

Like many yesteryear items, vinyl records are gradually making a comeback in popularity with millennials. In many local record stores, such as 2nd & Charles, shoppers can find contemporary music in vinyl record form. Some buyers claim vinyl’s music quality is much better than compact discs or most digital forms; others simply enjoy the combination of vintage and modern entertainment forms. Some enjoy it for the nostalgia. Then there are those who take their appreciation a step further, such as one local group of musicians. The Maples, a self-described “garage rock” band, have worked to produce their own vinyl record. This record is the first one publicly released in Laredo for 37 years. The band currently consists of Joshua Jasso (vocals/guitar), Adrian Garcia (drums) and Seabass Garcia (bass).

The 7-inch record includes music from The Maples and The C-Section Babies, another local band whose members they met and befriended back in their middle school days. Jasso spoke about the band’s origin, its reason for coming together to create music and its long-term plans. “It was the idea to make a band that can deliver messages that hit close to home,” he said. “It started in 2014 as a simple punk band with different members and a cassette recorder in our bedroom. The seed was planted, all we were wait-

The Maples/The C-Section Babies Split 7-inch album cover

ing for was for the band to grow and practice to try capturing the audience in a personal level. “We are a full band now that has a primary goal of doing the best we can to flourish in the beauty of music and in the cities we visit in the sleepless joyful nights on tour.” They originally planned for the record to be split between four local bands, he said, but they were unable to bring that to fruition. Depsite that, they were not discouraged and furthered their work on the record. Recording took place in San Marcos during the summer of 2016. Among the band members’ influences, he cited The Velvet Underground as their biggest one. “In their debut album (The Velvet Underground & Nico) critics say, ‘Everyone who bought this album started a band,’” Jasso said. “It is very true because that is exactly what happened with me and The Maples. They gave unique charac-

teristics and topics in each of their songs and that is what inspired us to be so serious in our music. The emotion the album emits to the listener is what we are trying to capture, to give symbolism and meaning to each song I write. “We have been very fortunate to not have a primary hurdle that suppresses us as a band or that causes tension between us. The journey has been pure success and happiness which is why we still continue to be a band, it’s an outlet to express our emotions to give relief from our personal struggles.” With the record finished and released in September, the band is already planning ahead and looking forward with open arms yet are keeping a bit hush about those prospects. “We are going to experiment more in the future to indulge in the art of music,” he said. “Although we only have a handful of demo tapes, a debut EP and split 7-inch

Submitted photo

The Maples on us, this is only the beginning of what our band has in store for our listeners— many plans to look forward to that we are keeping secret.” Interested persons can find The Maples/The C-Section Babies 7-inch split record available for purchase from Blade Records and Big Cartel, as of Sept. 2. The Maples can be found on social media under the handle @themaplesband.

TAMIU celebrates Mexican Independence with ‘El Grito’ By Jonathan Ramos Editor-in-Chief

TAMIU celebrated this year’s Mexican Independence Day by bringing the “El Grito” celebration

directly to Texas A&M International University students. Contrary to the popular U.S. belief, Cinco de Mayo is not the actual Mexican Independence Day.

Bridge | T. Rob Brown

Melody Mata (left), senior psychology major, and others dress in traditional Mexican attire during the campus El Grito event Thursday evening, Sept. 14, outside the Student Center.

It is Sept. 16 which commemorates Mexico’s independence. The “El Grito” ceremony is used as an acknowledgment of a call to arms known as “El Grito de Dolores.” To Mexicans, this celebration signifies their victory over Spain at the end of a decade-long war; whereas here in Laredo, its intent is to celebrate close ties to Mexico. This event was held inside the Student Center and in the outdoor rotunda. Students were treated to a wide variety of snacks: cinnamon churros; carne asada tacos with onion, cilantro and salsa toppings; and authentic aguas frescas. The Student Center was filled with traditional Mexican decorations and Mexican music played through-

out the event. After attendees tried the complementary food and beverages, the entertainment began. The more adventurous students took a spin on a mechanical bull to test their endurance. Live entertainment included a mariachi band playing historical numbers to set the mood for a group of traditional Mexican dancers in appropriate attire. TAMIU stuBridge | Jonathan Ramos dents were able to taste life south A student wears a mask during the campus El Grito of the border. event inside the Student Center.

ON CAMPUS

OCTOBER 2017

TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

THE BRIDGE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

REC SPORTS FALL 2017 INTRAMURALS REGISTRATION SCHEDULE Indoor Soccer

Pickleball Singles

Softball

OCT. 17

OCT. 25

OCT. 31

Kickball NOV. 13

‘Peace Pole’ added to campus

TAMIU OCTOBER Events Breast Cancer Awareness Month Domestic Violence Awareness Month National Cyber Security Month October through Tuesday, Nov. 2, FPA Gallery 206A Sarah Fox and the Sweet Somalings art exhibit in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Gallery.

5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, Book Warehouse Book reading and signing by award-winning author, Professor Jerry Thompson. His Pulitzer Prize-nominated book “Tejano Tiger” is the 2017 Tejano Book Award winner. Book Warehouse is located in the Outlet Shoppes at Laredo, 1600 Water St., A250.

10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 16, KL 420 TAMIU Alternative Pathways for Educator Preparation information session. For more information: sgarza@ tamiu.edu or edeleon@tamiu.edu

5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, STC Ballroom Diwali: Festival of Lights, sponsored by the Office of International Engagement.

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, KCB Maroon Madness, including the men’s basketball Championship Ring Ceremony. First 500 fans get a free 2017 Maroon Madness T-shirt, courtesy Housing and Residence Life. There will also be free food courtesy Popeyes. Fans will have a chance to win a flat-screen TV and gaming console, $500 bookstore gift card and Beats headphones. Free and ope to the public. For more information: www.GoDustdevils.com. Bridge | Alesa Estrada

Campus Activities Board (CAB) members pose around the new peace monument with Miss TAMIU Vale Denise Nunez (right) Thursday, Sept. 21, outside the Student Center.

By Alesa Estrada Bridge Staff Writer Students walking past the Student Center might notice a new addition to the landscape. Texas A&M International University added a Peace Pole, an international monument and symbol of peace in honor of International Peace Day, Sept. 21. TAMIU revealed its newest addition, which was donated by Rotary Club of Laredo and installed by TAMIU’s own Rotary Club. Anthony Morales, Rotary Club past president, was one of those present for the event. “The Peace Pole Project came from the founder of the World Peace Prayer

Society, Masahisa Goi, who dedicated himself to serving humanity and the attainment of world peace,” Morales said. With an estimated 200,000 of these poles dedicated in nearly every country, TAMIU, as an international university, shows its support for international peace. Mr. TAMIU, Ryan Hodgson, an international student from England who attended the event, said he thinks TAMIU is a “pretty diverse place.” “We wholeheartedly say that we do believe peace should prevail on Earth,” Hodgson said, “and for us to be invited to this and be a part of this is a great achievement.” The peace monument is

located in the Lamar Bruni Vergara Memorial Garden next to the Student Center. “We wanted a place that would be very visible to the student body,” Morales said. “Since the Student Center sees a lot of activity, we thought that area would be the best option to have the peace pole.” The ceremony was held outdoors with refreshments provided. It began with a placing of international flags. Students from different campus organizations lined up, each holding a flag bearing the phrase, “Peace be with [country name], Peace be on Earth.” They pinned the flags to a temporary display wall in order to show a united world.

Greek life kicks off at TAMIU

By Jonathan Ramos Editor-in-Chief

Sororities and fraternities date back to the 1700s, with the goal of forming social bonds with like-minded individuals. This idea has not changed much. Except in modern day, the idea of joining one of these groups is synonymous with binge drinking and hazing rituals. Rather, in practice, these groups are designed to bring members a sense of unity through activity participation. Many of the benefits extend beyond

student life and transcend into their career path. The first step to becoming a full member of a Greek organization is to make it through rush week. This is the recruitment stage that usually happens at the beginning of the year. These clubs differ slightly but for the most part they introduce themselves to the potential recruits and inform them about what makes their group so unique. Potential pledges can get their introduction to the group at one of the

many parties or simply by meeting them on campus. After rush, students decide which sorority or fraternity they will pledge to. These Greek organizations are designed for students to come together and make memories. TAMIU is host to a number of them, including Alpha Kappa Delta, Alpha Phi Sigma, Alpha Delta Psi, Sigma Delta Pi and Sigma Nu Delta. Interested persons may contact the Office of Student Orientation, Leadership and Engagement to enroll.

Campus improvements

Noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, STC Rotunda World Market Thursdays, silent auction of international fair-trade, American-made and local business art, craft, jewelry, home décor, gift cards and more. Free and open to the public. Proceeds benefit TAMIU Student Engagement. For more information: Tonya Huber, tonya.huber@ tamiu.edu or call 956-326-2420.

2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, STC 236 Undergraduate Nursing Research Workshop: Road to Success presented by Associate Professor Adelita G. Cantin, UT Health San Antonio. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information: Marivic B. Torregosa, mtorregosa@tamiu.edu.

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, ZSC Graduate School Open House. Application fee will be waived for open house attendees. For more information: 956-326-3020, graduateschool@tamiu.edu or www. tamiu.edu/gradschool.

Oct. 20-31, Wicked Wellness Week Friday, Oct. 20, Fall 2017 midterm grades due 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20, KL 203 The library and Villa San Agustín de Laredo Genealogy Society are hosting Assistant Professor Aaron Olivas for a lecture on “Frontiers of Race and Ethnicity in Hispanic Genealogy” in the Special Collections and Archives Reading Room. Olivas will explore his family history and delve into the complexities of constructing and deconstructing his Hispanic identity.

Oct. 23-28, Make a Difference Week 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24, FPA Recital Hall Chamber Ensemble Recital, presented by the Department of Fine and Performing Arts. For more information: Susan Berdahl, 956-326-2658 or sberdahl@tamiu.edu.

Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, STC Rotunda Selena Tribute Runway Show, students dress in Selena outfits and strut their stuff on the runway. Participants can dance, lip-sync to their favorite song. For more information: Rosario Benavides, STC Room 234 to sign up. Deadline to enter, Friday, Oct. 20.

12:10 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, FPA Recital Hall F.W. Murnau’s “The Haunted Castle,” part of the TAMIU Music on the Menu Lunchtime Concert Series; a Halloween silent movie directed by Murnau with live improvisation by Assistant Professor Colin Campbell, organ. Free and open to the public. For more information: 956-326-3071.

1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, STC Ballroom 2017 Government & Social Services Job Fair. Local, state and national employers from government and social services industries come together to promote employment for TAMIU students, alumni and the community. Professional business attire is required.

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, ZSC lawn Annual Halloween Festival.

7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, FPA Recital Hall American Trumpet Recital by Oswaldo Zapata and Fritz Gechter play tribute to Latin American music with trumpet and piano. The event is free and open to the public.

Friday, Oct. 28 The Office of Student Conduct & Community Engagement is sponsoring Make a Difference Day.

3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29, FPA Recital Hall

Orchestral Families: 38 Years of Musical Delights presents Laredo Phil “Sumptuous Strings.” Tickets $20. Season Tickets $80. For tickets and more information: 956-326-3042 or www.laredophil.com.

Nov. 2 through 3, Tarleton State University Bridge | Maria Vazquez

Construction workers with Bartlett Cocke General Contractors build the new engineering building Friday afternoon, Sept. 22. The building is expected to open in 2019.

Annual Texas A&M University System Pathways Student Research Symposium at Tarleton State University, Stephenville. Open to all Texas A&M University System students. Categories include undergraduate-, master’sand doctoral-level research.

TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

SPORTS

OCTOBER 2017

Team has ‘chemistry’

THE BRIDGE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Hernandez breaks own record women, men take on the Stampede By Jonathan Ramos Editor-in-Chief

TAMIU forward Cio Bargallo drives the ball as St. Mary’s midfielder Maren Craig attempts to steal Tuesday night, Sept. 5, at the TAMIU Soccer Complex. The final score was 4-3, St. Mary’s.

By Jonathan Ramos Editor-in-Chief

8-31 9-5 9-8 9-10 9-14 9-16 9-21 9-23

Women’s Soccer Scoreboard Delta State 5-3 St. Mary’s 4-3 Eastern New Mexico 2-2 Midwestern State 4-0 Newman 2-0 Rogers State 1-0 Oklahoma Christian 2-1 Lubbock Chirstian 4-2

w l t l l l w l

The women’s soccer team is off to a rough start this season, with a record of 2-5-1. Despite that, coach Felipe Arias said he is ing two more goals (3-1). pumped for the season. Nicole Cohen and Cio The Texas A&M InterBargallo fired up the team national University women when they scored nearly started off on the right foot back-to- back goals in with a 5-3 victory over Delta the second half, to level State. Initially, Arias said the game out (3-3). A St. they hoped to continue that Mary’s score in about the momentum throughout the last 5 minutes of the game season. The majority of this brought the scoreboard to a season’s games are away. close (4-3). Arias said travelling can Arias said this is not be tiresome but with the something they are worried added requirement of havabout. He said they had a ing to play at full intensity strong performance for 90 minutes, you can but were caught off-guard have a recipe for disruption. during stoppage time. He said this season is still The women had two reexpected to be a first-rate cent home games. They deimprovement from last feated Oklahoma Christian year, due to a large group (2-1) on Sept. 21. On Sept. of returning players eager 23, the came up short (4-2) to make a rendezvous for against Lubbock Christian. victory. He believes he has a The next home game will well-rounded team with the be 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. chemistry for success. 19, against Rogers State. The women had a close game (4-3) at home against St. Mary’s on Sept. 5. That game began with a rough start, like the season. They trailed (1-0) early on. After an assist from Monica Castro, Valeria Macias scored a Bridge | T. Rob Brown goal to even the game out (1-1). TAMIU forward Nicole Cohen (right) competes for St. Mary’s came a header against Lubbock Christian’s Allison Scott back strong, scor- during the Sept. 23 home game.

Cross-Country Scoreboards Sept. 8 Norry Hersey Rice Invitational Sept. 16 MSSU Southern Stampede Sept. 23 Islander Splash

Special to The Bridge | Mike Gullett

TAMIU’s Rebekah Hernandez competes in the Southern Stampede Saturday morning, Sept. 16 at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Mo. Hernandez became the first Dustdevil to cover the 5K distance in less than 18 minutes and placed 21st with a time of 17:58.75 minutes.

195th, 20:37.20; Krystina Palacios, 201st, 20:46.72; and Carla Gonzalez, 203rd, 20:49.67. Cross-country is one of the few sports where the team with the least points wins. Finishing in the top 10 percent is the key to victory. The women had 531 points, a score better than four other Heartland Conference schools at the Stampede. The men had 654 points in Joplin. Justo Idrogo lead the men at 112 th place in the Stampede, completing the 8k in 26:59.98. Other men’s scores include: Eugene Garza, 132nd, 27:18.47; Marlon Armador, 182nd, 28:12.82; Ulises Perez, 191st; and Eddie Navarrete, 212th. The following meet was the Islander Splash, Sept. 23 in Corpus Christi. Once again, Hernandez came out on top, literally at 1 st place with 18:33.7, Women’s Men’s more than 114 points 167 points a minute 531 points 654 points 26 points 26 points faster than

Oct. Men’s Soccer 14 UT Permian Basin

WHAT’S NEXT?

Bridge | T. Rob Brown

It may not be surprising to those who know her that senior Rebekah Hernandez placed well in the recent MSSU Southern Stampede held in Joplin, Mo. It also might not surprise them that the cross-country runner broke a school record by completing the 5k in 17:58.75 minutes. What might surprise them is that she was the one who previously held that school record. In breaking it, she lead the women’s cross-country team to an 18th-place team finish. Her record-breaking run earned her 21st place among 279 competitors at the Sept. 16 Stampede, which included universities from Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas. “You need to discipline yourself in order to be the best,” Hernandez said. In order to run that fast in an edurance race, her training usually involves running 12 to 15 miles per day—broken up into two sessions, one in the early morning and one in the evening. Hernandez hopes to compete in nationals, before graduating at the end of this semester. She said it is going to involve waking up early, eating healthy and training hard. Their success in Joplin brought the women into second place in the Heartland Conference, the men were not as successful. They finished 22 nd place at the Stampede. Coach Benny Rodriguez, also an avid marathon runner, said he believes applying the type of training for a marathon elevates the performance level of his athletes. Other women’s Stampede scores include: Karla Resendez, 87th, 19:02.70; Renee Contreras, 97th, 19:11.17; Mireya Zarazua,

Oct. Women’s Volleyball 21 Dallas Baptist

Oct. Men’s Soccer State 19 Rogers 5 p.m.

Women’s Volleyball St. Edwards U 7 p.m. Women’s Soccer Rogers State 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 12

noon Men’s Soccer Newman University noon Women’s Soccer Newman University

Women’s Soccer Oklahoma Christian University

her nearest opponent. Garza lead the men, taking 2nd place with 20:12.1. In the Islander Splash, Texas A&M International University held victories over Angelo State University (ASU) and Texas A&M-Kingsville. The men kept five runners in the top-ten, defeating ASU with 26 points. The women also won with 26 points but by a narrow margin. Idrogo took 3rd place in the Splash with 20:28.2. Other men’s scores include: Marlon Armador, Navarrete and Perez finishing 6th , 7th and 8th, respectively; Markos Armador, 16th , 23:01.5; and Antonio Davila, 25th, 25:10.3. Other women’s Splash scores include: Resendez, 4th, 20:00.8; Contreras, 5th, 20:13.8; Palacios, 9th, 21:58.3; Gonzalez, 11th; and Abril Escmilla, 14th. The women need to remain in the top three in the Heartland Conference to make it to regionals. Golf scoreboard ryan palmer 10th place foundation invitational

Justin kim parker holekamp yannik alexander travis smith jacob serna

214 216 218 226 238

21st (tie) 33rd (Tie) 41st (Tie)

men’s Soccer Scoreboard University of Colorado 1-0 Fort lewis college 0-0 st. edward’s university 1-0 dallas baptist university 1-1 West Texas A&M 2-1 university 9-23 Eastern New Mexico University 9-1 9-3 9-14 9-16 9-21

Oct. Men’s Soccer Dallas Baptist 26

Women’s Soccer St. Edwards University

W T L T W W

Bridge | T. Rob Brown

TAMIU midfielder Brenda Garcia (right) attempts to reach the ball against Lubbock Christian midfielder Zaita Lopez during Saturday afternoon’s game, Sept. 23, at the TAMIU Soccer Complex. The final was 4-2, Lubbock Christian.

Bridge | T. Rob Brown

Lacy Asdourian hits the ball back to Lubbock Christian Sept. 30.

Bridge | T. Rob Brown

Defender Alan Rivera kicks to score against Oklahoma Christian Sept. 30. TAMIU won 2-0.

NFL begins ‘brutal’ season; turfs, helmets add to improvements The National Football League’s opening day kicked off Thursday, Sept. 7, with a surprising finish. The Kansas City Chiefs pulled off a brutal win Jonathan over the Ramos 2016 Super Bowl champions, the New England Patriots. The game started off competitive, then rookie

running back Kareem Hunt took off like a rocket with a combined total of 246 yards and 3 touchdowns. This left many viewers with the reminder that nothing is set in stone in football. Anything can happen this season. Here in Dallas Cowboy country, fans were ecstatic with the victory over arch rival the New York Giants, which could be an indicator for their progress later this season. The NFL has maintained its efforts to keep

the league open for any team to spearhead a path to the playoffs. But nothing is more important than player safety. This season the league members have come together to present a united front and keep players protected from brain trauma. The addition of the latest-and-greatest innovations in sports science are in play with the introduction of new helmet Vicis Zero 1, which is supposed to be the safest helmet on

the market. The NFL is also introducing new forms of turf. Long gone are the days of natural grass that led to players slipping and sliding during bad weather. New turf systems, like the DESSO Grass Master turf, are designed to keep the area of play intact and are more forgiving, as far as taking a tumble when compared to natural surfaces. This season looks like it will be one to remember, filled with new faces and

For additional Sports coverage, please visit us on the web at www.thebridgestudentnews.com

new strategies. Hopefully it will be the athletic performances that keep the audience tuned in and not the drama. The pledge of allegiance controversy that swept last year’s season has died down, with few if any players kneeling during the national anthem. Will this season be free from controversy or will the fans find some hijinks to keep this season juicy? Who knows? It’s best to stay tuned and see.