THE DAILY COUGAR
TODAY’S WEATHER
Students greet new year with change /Features
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Issue 74, Volume 75
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Obama assumes U.S. presidency UH faculty anticipates new presidential administration
Some students skeptical of promises of change, reform
By Melanie Pang The Daily Cougar
By Melanie Pang The Daily Cougar
The country need not wait any longer for the inauguration of the 44th president, Barack Obama. While Obama and his supporters rode a message of hope and change to the White House with the slogan “yes, we can,” Obama’s change is more easily promised than delivered, said Christine LeVeaux, assistant professor of political science and African-American studies in The Honors College. “When you are the president, you can influence and try to persuade Congress members, but in the end the president is facing 535 men and women with
individualized and personal agendas,” LeVeaux said. “Conflict is inevitable.” Obama’s first order of business will be to gain control of the remaining $300 billion of the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP), with a goal of bringing some relief to citizens. “It is difficult to deliver on a promise of universal healthcare, for instance, when there is no money to carry out such a g g LeVeaux policy,” LeVeaux said. Congress may be a formidable foe for the see FACULTY, page 13
UH students watched as Obama and his administration began a new term. “Every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms,” said President Barack Obama in his inaugural address. Music education junior John Grimmett said Obama’s capabilities are ground for hope despite the harsh challenges facing his administration. “Obama’s election to office shows that the American people are ready to work with the government instead of against it,” Grimmett said. “His challenge as president
will not only be to mend the previous administration’s failures, but to restore America’s image as a visionary leader in the world.” The universality of Obama as a role model is encouraging to all, not just black Americans, vocal performance senior Brittany Lovett said. “People who have struggled to get an education who don’t come g g Grimmett from perfect backgrounds can (succeed). There’s a role model,” Lovett said. see STUDENTS, page 13
School turns out for tribute UH community gathers to reflect on past, present By Steven Oster The Daily Cougar
Steven Oster The Daily Cougar
All eyes were on President Obama during Tuesday’s post-Martin Luther King Jr. Day inauguration watch party held in the Houston Room, University Center.
At UH’s The Evolution of a dream: Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Tuesday, guest speakers and faculty shared thoughts and feelings about King’s legacy to a capacity crowd. “This is a celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. The holiday was yesterday, and the (presidential) inauguration is today, so we will be celebrating them together since
they are so closely tied together,” said Juanita Jackson, a volunteer for the event. “We have many speakers today, and we are hoping for a good turnout because we sent out emails on the list-serve.” Jackson got what she hoped for as every seat in the Houston room was filled, leaving many who came to pay respect to King and witness the swearing-in ceremony standing in the aisles. Television broadcasts of the inauguration were projected onto a large screen to an audience that cheered and gave a standing ovation as Barack Obama was see MLK, page 3
There’s something about Schmuckli Committee praises director’s proven track record By Christina Hildebrand The Daily Cougar Committee members who reviewed and recommended candidates for director of the Blaffer Gallery’s have high praise for newlyappointed Claudia Schmuckli. “We wanted a person who has much knowledge in regard to contemporary art because we are a contemporary art museum. That was our foremost concern. We also wanted her to be a leader in putting a staff together. Claudia met that criteria very well,” said Shirley Rose, advisory board members emeritus. Rose, along with then dean of the College of Liberal Arts
and Social Sciences and newlyappointed Provost-elect John Antel, and advisory board member Gordon Goodman said Schmuckli’s experience will allow her to bring various works to Houston. Antel said Schmuckli was chosen for the position because she “possesses the talent, experience, and energy to step into her new role.” Other landmarks of Schmuckli’s résumé include bachelor’s and master’s degrees in art history from Ludwigs-MaximilliansUniversität and curator positions at the Museum of Modern Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City. In the nationwide search for
Blaffer’s new art gallery director, Schmuckli was chosen from a list of highly-qualified candidates, Antel said. “The search committee took particular notice of Claudia’s strong leadership in the absence of a director over the past nine months. Her vision for the museum combined with the impressive list of exciting exhibitions that she organized made her most qualified for job.” Schmuckli said she is excited to begin her new endeavor as Blaffer’s museum director. “I inherit a healthy institution with an exceptionally dedicated staff, enthusiastic board and an ambitious agenda,” Schmuckli
Mauricio Lazo The Daily Cougar
Claudia Schmuckli, who was appointed the director of Blaffer Gallery on Jan. 5, will use her experience as a curator to bring innovative art to the University. said. “With new University leadership in place that has made the advancement of the arts one of its top priorities, this is a unique opportunity to build on past
successes and to expand the reach of the museum’s exhibitions and see SCHMUCKLI, page 3
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Wednesday Three Cheers for Recycling, a RecycleMania pep rally, will kick off the first week of the nationwide green initiative college competition from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the University Center Satellite. During a 10-week period, UH will compete with more than 400 universities in effort to reduce, reuse and recycle campus waste. Join the effort that has already made a visible difference on campus. For more information, visit www.uh.edu/af/recyclemania/. Interview Workshop will assist students from 1 to 2 p.m. at Student Service Center 1, First Floor. In this workshop, students will learn how to prepare for the next interview. Campus, behavioral and second round interviews will be discussed. For more information e-mail ucs@uh.edu or call (713)743-5100. UH Men’s Basketball v. East Carolina will be played at 7 p.m. at Hofheinz Pavilion. Tickets to regular season men’s basketball games are free to students who present a valid Cougar One card at the Cullen Boulevard side of Hofheinz Pavilion for admission.
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Mission: Students for Sensible Drug Policy is an organization composed of students who believe the war on drugs has failed and that American drug policy should treat drug abuse and addiction as public health issues instead of criminal justice ones. SSDP seeks to bring an end to counterproductive drug war policies and replace them with harm-reduction policies that focus on treatment instead of incarceration. PHOTO Courtesy of Students for sensible drug policy SSDP accomplishes these goals by SSDP members strive to educate others about drug war educating the public and lawmakers on issues and advocate alternative policies. all drug policy related issues, while also “The best thing about SSDP so far is actively promoting alternative policies. Who’s in charge: Political science senior the opportunities to do things that Michael Blunk. I’ve never done before, such as go Founded: Spring 2008. The national SSDP organization was founded in 1998. to the capitol Legislature and speak Save the date: Keep your eyes peeled for to my representative.� information on Race and the Drug War, a forum organized by SSDP where panelists – Chris McClean, advertising senior discuss the intersections of racial injustice and American drug policy. “I like the experience that members In March, SSDP will travel to Austin to lobby Texas state representatives in support of SSDP get with the political of lifting the ban on needle-exchange process. We’re changing public programs in Texas. policy and meeting our state Web site: http://uhssdp.com/ Sign me up!: E-mail any of the officers. representatives and senators.�
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SCHMUCKLI
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sworn in. Organizers said Obama’s unprecedented presidency becoming official one day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day would echo King’s message and give context to the historic event at hand. In his inaugural address, Obama recognized the magnitude of the moment when he said, “a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.” It has been 46 years since King delivered his “I have a Dream” speech. He was killed in April 1968 while fighting for his cause. The course of events has culminated in Obama taking the oath of office. His speech contained humanitarian tones that resounded King’s desire for equality. “To all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: “What we saw know that America is a with Martin friend of each Luther King nation and every man, was the woman, and beginning of child who a new era as seeks a future of peace and he gave us dignity, and the tools to that we are to lead form a better ready once more.” future. What Obama said. T h e is happening American now with Revolution began in the (Obama) in last half of the office is the 18th century, first dab of but more than 200 years later paint being Americans are applied to still fighting the canvas of for equality and freedom a beautiful from social injustice. King future.” helped lead — Renu Khator, the civil rights UH President and UH m o v e m e n t , Systems Chancellor and he took steps through non-violent struggles to bring The U.S. to the point of realizing his dream. UH President and UH Systems Chancellor Renu Khator attended the event and watched the ceremony in a crowd of many ethnic backgrounds that sat like a mosaic on one of the most diverse universities in the nation. “What we saw with Martin Luther King was the beginning of a new era as he gave us the tools to form a better future. What is happening now with (Obama) in office is the first dab of paint being applied to the canvas of a beautiful future,” Khator said.
programs on and off campus.” Schmuckli also wants to give artists the chance to display work in their first professionally-curated museum exhibition and scholarlyresearched publication. “I would like to reinvigorate the idea of the university museum as a laboratory for ideas and a venue for experimentation,” Schmuckli said. Rose is also excited about what Schmuckli will bring to the art gallery in the future as well. “We want to have outstanding exhibitions,” Rose said. “We have very high hopes for our museum. ...Our goal as a museum is to be among the very best non-collecting university contemporary art museums.” Goodman said Schmuckli has demonstrated outstanding curatorial skills at past Blaffer gallery exhibitions, including recently-opened shows. “Claudia possesses the personal qualities necessary for success within a diverse institutional environment.” Goodman said.
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4 n Wednesday, January 21, 2009
The Daily Cougar
OPINION
COMING THURSDAY: Gene sequencer brings new research to UH ONLINE: Professor Web blog discusses inauguration
EDITOR Shaista Mohammed E-MAIL opinion@thedailycougar.com ONLINE www.thedailycougar.com/opinion
EDITORIAL CARTOON
THE DAILY COUGAR e d itori a l B o a r d Zaneta Loh, editor in chief Signe Cluiss, managing editor James Rincon, News editor Matt Miller, Sports editor Sarah Tucker, Life & Arts editor Shaista Mohammed, Opinion editor
STAFF EDITORIAL
American ideals reaffirmed on Inauguration Day
F
RAMI SCHINDLER The Daily Cougar
‘Change’ requires citizen support Today marked a paradigm shift in this nation’s continued story. As every American is aware, President Barack Obama was sworn into office just before noon. This momentous occasion was marked by a multi-million-person crowd at the National Mall, who enjoyed Bill Conant performances of Aretha Franklin’s beautiful rendition of “My Country, Tis of Thee” and a quartet comprised of Yo Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, Anthony McGill and Gabriella Montero who played an arrangement of “Simple Gifts,” scored by
John Williams. Luminaries, superstars, dignitaries, working Americans, children and others of all walks of life watched as President Obama took office. Yet even with the feeling of a new dawn, even with the sloughing off of eight long years of misguided ideology, even as this truly historic moment happened, I had to wonder: what now? We’ve hoped for change for so long, that I, for one, am wondering what to do next politically. We’ve all had so much to complain about, that it was really all we did. President Bush was easy to cast as a horrible mistake, but in all the time he was in office, who did anything to fix that mistake? Until 2006, most people
merely sighed a lot or grumbled loudly. That election year brought a Democratic Senate majority and what was supposed to be some new life into Washington, but that fell through spectacularly. Now how will we express our political feelings? I say we back him, give him the help he has asked us for, and follow his example. He has chosen to lead from the front of the throngs, not from a camp behind the rearguard. He is a guide, not a commander, and we owe it to him to help out however possible because he is willing to get his own hands dirty. see CONANT, page 6
Nation unified under historic inauguration Despite being in class during the inauguration itself, the event has somehow followed me through negative space, defining my community’s reaction by its absence. It brings home wholly and finally to me the power of change, that unbearable lightness of being so many of us Shaista are feeling is that of the Mohammed people of the United States, many of whom feel truly connected to the electoral process for the first time in their lives. The only news in town is the inauguration, what it means and what the new presidency heralds for the future. If there were any doubt as to the importance of the United States on the world forum, a simple assay of the major international papers will confirm the impact our national politics have. Even Senator Kennedy’s collapse has taken a back seat to the largely preplanned inauguration coverage. I am startled not so much by the rhetoric of the inauguration speech, which is as achievable by art and rehearsal as any other of its ilk, but of the connection and empowerment so many Americans feel, despite any obvious differences of age, gender, race, class or culture, to the election of this candidate. Somehow, no matter
which candidate any of us had voted for, oligarchy of political power that marked there is a sense of connection that comes the Bush family, somehow resulting in a from witnessing historic events, even from leader whose affectations were more in a distance. We all feel engaged, surrounded line with farmers and ranchers than Yaleby the information and the connection to educated powerbrokers. Hard work is more events in Washington. than a buzzword, and change is more than The performances at the inaugural a sigil. That seems to be the message out concerts only serve to underline the there in the world today. The demonstrable numbers represented melting of a long held The only news in town is barrier to achievement by the election itself. It took all of us to choose to this country has been the inauguration, what in change, and that perhaps demonstrated, and it means and what the although the issue of race may have brought us together more than the new presidency heralds is significant, it is also not candidate himself. the most compelling part for the future. It is somehow ironic of the day. that again, we have elected This is also a day when a president who speaks of hard work, we embrace statesmanship over militarism, but more as a fair warning and a call to and questioning over dogma. The innate arms than as a catch phrase for winning equality of all persons, and their right to elections. The similar words only serve to due process and equal treatment under underscore the vivid differences of emotion, the law is a deeply American sentiment, empowerment and intensity surrounding and Tuesday saw its realization. Not in the two. the president himself, but in the unity It seems somehow unfair to compare of purpose and values among a diverse them, as if President Obama has had some population that put him in the highest sort of advantage that President Bush has office of the land. not, but in truth the converse has more This election was a confirmation of the validity. Obama’s antecedents were quietly power of the individual, and the validity of Midwestern, his heritage is one of mixed the American experiment. race, and strong values, living amid salt of the earth people whose love for their family Shaista Mohammed is an anthropology was stronger than their previous prejudices. freshman and may be reached at opinion@ This upbringing is a far cry from the thedailycougar.com
or Inauguration Day, Washington, D.C. was filled with crowds of more than 1 million, the Associated Press reported, in what is estimated the largest gathering of people in U.S. history. Across the nation, Americans watched proceedings on television and online. At the same time, hundreds of UH students gathered in the University Center to share what could be the most significant moment in contemporary American politics: the swearing in of our first black president, Barack Obama. Even for those who did not vote for Obama, his taking of office should be celebrated. It proves that this nation is undoubtedly a popular sovereignty, led by free people. The symbolic import of the onset of Obama’s term coinciding with what would have been the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 80th birthday and the use of President Lincoln’s inaugural Bible reaffirm the ideals on which the United States was founded. The day’s symbolism also speaks to a message from Obama’s inaugural address: “For the world has changed, and we must change with it.” A more accurate statement would be the world is always changing. No human lives a static life separate from his or her environment. Every action a person makes impacts the rest of the world — no matter how small that impact may be. As American leadership transitions from promoting a culture of fear to a culture of hope, let us remain critically aware of the rhetorical hype on both sides of the coin and keep in mind how much power each of us has as a citizen. Get involved, attend rallies, write letters to Congress, inform the media but most importantly, let your voice be heard. President Obama is listening. On Sunday during a speech at the Lincoln Memorial, Obama said, “As I prepare to take the presidency, yours are the voices I will take with me every day I walk into that oval office.” However, don’t forget that Obama didn’t swear an oath to us — he swore it to the Constitution. As citizens we must do our own to “preserve, protect and defend” ourselves. And if ever we doubt the importance of the impact a single person can have, imagine what would be today if the lanky teenager Barry Obama never believed he could make a difference years ago.
ED I TO R I A L polic y STAFF EDITORIAL The Staff Editorial reflects the opinions of The Daily Cougar Editorial Board (the members of which are listed above the editorial). All other opinions, commentaries and cartoons reflect only the opinion of the author. Opinions expressed in The Daily Cougar do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Houston or the students as a whole. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Daily Cougar welcomes letters to the editor from any member of the UH community. Letters should be no more than 250 words and signed, including the author’s full name, phone number or e-mail address and affiliation with the University, including classification and major. Anonymous letters will not be published. Deliver letters to Room 151, Communication Building; e-mail them to letters@thedailycougar.com; send them via campus mail to STP 4015; or fax them to (713) 743-5384. Letters are subject to editing. ADVERTISEMENTS Advertisements published in The Daily Cougar do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the University or the students as a whole. GUEST COMMENTARY Submissions are accepted from any member of the UH community and must be signed with the author’s name, phone number or e-mail address and affiliation with the University, including classification and major. Commentary should be kept to less than 500 words. Guest commentaries should not be written as replies to material already printed in the Cougar, but rather should present independent points of view. Rebuttals should be sent as letters. Deliver submissions to Room 151, Communication Building; e-mail them to letters@thedailycougar.com; or fax them to (713) 743-5384. All submissions are subject to editing.
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OPINION
Wednesday, January 21, 2009 n 5
Race relations least of new president’s worries President Obama will undoubtedly face many racial relation issues during his time in office, however more pressing issues will take precedence in the immediate future. Major concerns facing the nation’s leadership include bringing the war to an end and turning our economy around so we can begin recovering from the past. And, of course, the Alana arduous task of settling MousaviDin into life at the White House as the newest president of the United States will likely be on the front burner as well. As historic as Tuesday was, the next four years will be even more so. President Obama will not only be working to repair the nation’s economy and its reputation worldwide, but he will be doing this as the first black president of our nation. That is a heavy weight to bear, knowing any mistake would perhaps be blamed on more than inadequacy on his part. Some people will be in dire search of anything that might make him appear less than capable of running our country. It has been said time and again this nation isn’t ready for a black president, but I beg to disagree. President Obama has no military background, and this has been a highly debated issue throughout the campaign and election process. However, because of this it may prove that he is exactly the right person to settle disputes between nations. Allow me to clarify — because he has no military training, he is less likely to solve problems with military action. I believe he will seek peaceful measures to resolve foreign issues. This is not to discount any of our soldiers or veterans. Bless them all for their service. But as we have witnessed in this war so far, our military is easily swayed into unnecessary violence.
BISSAN RAFE The Daily Cougar
Because he is of mixed familial backgrounds, both racially and religiously, I believe he will have a better understanding of what it takes to “play nice” with foreign nations. It takes a great deal of patience and true compassion to grasp the intensity of embracing another nation, and I feel President Obama is fully capable of doing just that because of his upbringing. His mother and grandparents saw to it that he was a well-rounded young man. Having a law degree doesn’t hurt either Law school allowed for introduction to international law and human rights. His
practice as a civil rights attorney should come into play many times during his tenure. The question of whether President Obama’s tenure could be overshadowed by questions of race relations has more to do with foreign relations than race relations. Race is usually thought to be the color of one’s skin or a category we check on an application, but in actuality his presidency will be clouded with other issues than race. The colors of the rainbow are present everywhere all over the world. Those colors remain exactly the same even though they are called by different names. The same
holds true with people. We are the same inside; it’s the outside that has variation. I think the important thing is that President Obama has made it quite clear that he is wellaware of the fact that we are all human. We all are the same inside. We all make mistakes and we all pay the price. He just has to figure out what the cost will be to restore the U.S. to its former glory, if that’s even possible. I wish him the best of luck. Alana MousaviDin is a communication senior and may be reached at opinion@thedailycougar.com
OPINION
6 n Wednesday, January 21, 2009
The Daily Cougar
CONANT
Inaugural speech inspires, rouses The nation has seemed to limp along on crutches for the handful who harbor faith in it. That includes President Barack Obama. He has lit the candle amidst the Anousheh darkness and Kehar understands that he can lead us to prosperous days once again. The 44th president of the U.S. brought about a revolution, rekindled hope and encouraged us to make our dreams a reality. The inauguration is not only historic in giving American presidential power to the first black man, but also brings light to the journey leading to this event, marking a new wave of awakening amongst the American people as well as among the international community. Barack Obama reverently takes his stance as a national leader proposing to help overcome these times of uncertainty and diminishing optimism. President Obama’s inaugural speech lived up to its purpose; his eloquence brilliantly translated his moral and logical values. He has gained our faith and cooperation. He spoke of bridging gaps and renovation in order to serve what we believe in.
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of the structure. President Obama’s fierce ambition inspires not only his fellow citizens but also rekindles hope in hearts of citizens of the world. We have put aside our rosecolored glasses. Now, we have the opportunity to be an important part of what may become a great revolution.
The new president has a monstrous task ahead of him. He has asked us all to make sacrifices, to work a little harder, to show a little more courtesy to our fellow Americans and (perhaps even more importantly) to our fellow earthlings, human and otherwise. How will he approach an insurance policy for 300 million? How will he handle the quest for energy efficiency? How will he treat the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community? What of abortion rights? Sure his platform had all the answers, but those were for an ideal world, where his word was instantly understood, liked and signed into law. The real world will have more to say than his platform let on. We have more work ahead of us. We will have to fight for some things and merely ask for others, but because we are all collectively the real world, we can make sure Obama’s policies are used appropriately and that they are fair to all. If you have an opinion strong enough to voice, tell your senators and representatives. This is a people’s government, and today has made that clear. Take control of your own destiny and be involved. Congratulations, Mr. President. You have taken the first step towards staunching the wounds of this great nation, and I, for one, will help you in any way I can.
Anousheh Kehar is a political science sophomore, and may be reached at opinion@thedailycougar.com
Bill Conant is a pre-business junior and may be reached at opinion@ thedailycougar.com
RAMI SCHINDLER The Daily Cougar
He brings intellect to the masses, telling us we play a crucial role in not just regaining stability but reaffirming faith in the Constitution. He was explicit and concise in addressing failing systems and followed those remarks by inspiring optimism for the future. He places a responsibility with us, to replenish our spirit in order to serve as the necessary constructive tools on the way to greater days. His charisma rests not only in the fact that he is an individual with
strenuous faith in people, but also that he built himself from amongst the minority to rise to this occasion. Obama took a challenging path to reformation. Instead of fighting against the government, he respected its foundation. He took it upon himself to remind us of philosophies, aspirations, struggles and achievements past leaders have held and promoted. The historical significance as the first black president of the United States brings hope to the restoration
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Baue r C o lle ge
Useful tips: • check your PeopleSoft class schedule online • if you change your schedule make new payment arrangements • the last day for online class changes through PeopleSoft is Monday, January 26th by 11:59p.m.! Students using a manual ADD form to add closed CLASS courses must submit these forms to the CLASS Academic Affairs Center by 6:00 p.m. Monday, January 26th. Please remember that faculty approval and signature must be included in order to be added. CLASS Course s Only
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The Academic Af f airs Ce nte r, locate d in room 320 Agne s Ar nold Building will be available on Sat urday, Januar y 24th f rom 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. to add s t ude nts into close d CLASS course s. Again, ple ase remembe r an add form wi th f acul t y approval and signat ure mus t be prov ide d in orde r to be adde d into close d CLASS course s.
Students homepage www.uh.edu/students Campus advisors www.uh.edu/provost/stu/advisorlist.html Bauer College CLASS www.bauer.uh.edu www.class.uh.edu
8 n Wednesday, January 21, 2009
FEATURES Students set New Year’s resolutions NEW BEGINNINGS: Spring 2009 bring change for the University and its students
EDITOR Sarah Krusleski E-MAIL features@thedailycougar.com ONLINE www.thedailycougar.com/features
By Sarah Krusleski THE DAILY COUGAR The University of Houston has several services available to help students follow through with their New Years’ resolutions, whether they’re watching their waistlines, feel troubled by graduating during rough times or kicking a nasty procrastination habit. Students’ resolutions ranged from losing weight to quitting smoking. Language and Culture Center student Quiao Lin Yang’s resolution is to call her parents in China more frequently, and English junior Melissa Dickinson’s plan is to study Japanese so that she can read books she purchased abroad. On the other hand, many students said they had no New Year’s resolution. “Why wait until New Year’s to change? It’s better to be committed and do it now,” accounting senior Zane Mar said. Gayla Conners, psychology senior, abandoned New Year’s resolutions and instead resolves to accomplish 101 goals in 1000 days. “I keep a running list of things I want to accomplish in my lifetime,” Conners said. “It takes some pressure. You’re accomplishing goals but not in some arbitrary time frame.” Anthropology research professor Jerome Crowder said that the lackluster popularity of New Year’s resolutions may be attributed to the increasingly long-term goals set by older people, such as resolutions
to rise in company ranks or graduate from college. Regardless of the time frame that students use to achieve new goals, the University has services to help. For students planning to graduate during hard financial times, associate director of University Career Services Janet Civitelli recommended University Career Services’ workshop “Land a Job in a Tough Economy.” Civitelli also urged rising seniors to minimize anxiety about the economy by focusing on factors under their control such as improving their interview skills or polishing their résumés. Cigarette smokers hoping to kick the habit could follow the advice of electrical engineering graduate student Naresh Chityala. Chityala attributed his success to maintaining a positive attitude by reminding himself of how much progress he had made every time he felt the urge to light up. “Whyquit.com is one of the best Web sites on the Internet,” Chityala said. “It shows the immediate aftermath of quitting smoking.” Students who want to keep an eye on their waistlines were advised by Campus Recreation and Wellness Center membership supervisor Frank Cuevas to take advantage of their fee-funded memberships at the campus gym. He suggested students try out popular group exercise programs, including a yoga class and a weekly program called Boot Camp Express. “In Boot Camp Express, the
Justin flores The Daily Cougar
Painting freshman Jessica Davis and undeclared freshman Antonio Lopez enjoy a few minutes in the M.D. Anderson Memorial Library. Many students resolve to improve their grades after the New Year. trainer comes and does physical activity to get the body toned and teaches you things you can do on your own,” Cuevas said. Hotel and Restaurant Management senior Katelyn Halpern, who produced The Honors College Club Theater for two years and directed plays performed at Rice University and the University of Texas, advised all goal setters to pressure themselves to succeed with strict deadlines. Civitelli said writing out
recommended that students who still fumble despite their best efforts consider looking into counseling. A counselor may help them determine if an issue deeper than self-control is preventing them from accomplishing their goals. Waldman also stressed the importance of scheduling time to relax as well as time for work. “Say ‘I worked so hard so I could enjoy this,’” he said. features@thedailycougar.com
Honors Dean to continue teaching
Courtyard showpiece to feed local birds
By Jasmine Harrison THE DAILY COUGAR
By Sarah Krusleski THE DAILY COUGAR The University hopes to attract hungry Quaker Parakeets to campus with a parrot feeder and observation station erected on campus Jan. 14. “Green wild parakeets often have problems feeding themselves in the winter,” said Alex Alexander, director of the Custodial Services and Grounds Maintenances departments at the University. “The bird feeder will help ensure that they make it through the winter.” David Sarkozi, bird expert and manager of Public Safety Systems at UH, said the Third Ward has a community of feral Monk Parakeets, also known as Quaker Parakeets. “The birds hang around the cell phone tower near McDonald’s all the time,” he said. The Monk Parakeets hail from Argentina and fill a niche in Houston’s ecosystem left empty by the extinct Carolina parakeets. The birds’ feeding station features three blue, house-shaped feeders with perches and bricks of birdseed
timelines for goals dramatically improves the chances of success, as well as helping people determine which goals are realistic and which need more fine-tuning. “Sometimes you discover that obtaining it is a lot easier than you expected, and it’s a pleasant surprise. Other times, you need to fine-tune what you hoped to achieve so you’re grounded in realism,” she said. Dr. Ken Waldman, director of the University’s Counseling and Psychological Services,
Jingdan Chen The Daily Cougar
Kansas City artist Brian Collier hopes to attract local populations of wild Monk parakeets with new birdfeeder in the Music Courtyard. attached to the sides. Fresh fruit will also nourish the birds. Three coneshaped squirrel baffles prevent feral rodents from thieving birdseed. Kansas City artist Brian Collier set up the 9-foot tall station in the Music Courtyard as part of the build-up to his symposium on sustainability.
The event, Systems of Sustainability: Arts, Innovation, Action (S.O.S), will feature a public tour of nesting sites around campus led by Collier on March 27-29 at the Blaffer gallery. features@thedailycougar.com
Dr. William Monroe took his place as dean of The Honors College on Friday, and many could not imagine someone more suited to the role. Throughout 24 years at the University, Monroe has built a reputation in the Honors College as a professor who takes the time to get to know his students personally. Students and faculty alike feel that his approachability as well as his creativity will make him an effective dean. “He’s very interested in innovating programming to engage the students in and out of the classroom,” said English professor Dr. John Harvey, a UH graduate who has worked with Monroe in The Honors College since 2000. “He’s behind creative projects that encourage critical and creative thought.” When it comes to the future of The Honors College, Harvey regards Monroe as a visionary. “I think he has a vision for what The Honors College can do,” Harvey said. “Not only for itself and its students, but for
Mauricio lazo The Daily Cougar
English Professor William Monroe stepped up as dean of the University of Houston Honors College on January 20. The Honors College professor said he would continue to teach literature classes. different departments and colleges on campus, as well as for the community and city as well.” Monroe graduated from the University of Chicago and received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees see MONROE, page 12
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10 n Wednesday, January 21, 2009
SPORTS
COMING THURSDAY: Pass the Mike makes its debut in 2009. ONLINE POLL: What are UH basketball’s postseason chances?
EDITOR Matt Miller E-MAIL sports@thedailycougar.com ONLINE www.thedailycougar.com/sports
MEN’s BASKETBALL
SILENT ASSASSIN
UH looks to avenge loss By Chris Elliott The Daily Cougar
Cougars to follow Lewis’ lead
GAMETIME
As long as Aubrey Coleman has anything to do with it, the Cougars will not make the same mistake they did going into the game against Southern Miss. That’s because the junior guard now knows that teams in Conference USA are stronger than advertised. He knows that if his team wants to start thinking about making the NCAA Tournament, mental lapses in preparation, are out of the question. Coleman wants the bad taste from his first conference loss out of his mouth, so he will take the court tonight against East Carolina with the same mentality that he had for games against AlabamaBirmingham and Texas-El Paso. Coleman will play like ECU’s entire squad talked about his mother. In other words, for those who are not familiar with the devastation that is the “Yo Mamma” joke, he will be playing with a chip on his shoulder. “Before the UAB game we had a team meeting to let everybody know that if they do their part we will come out victorious,” Coleman said. “Then for the Southern Miss game we were like, ‘OK it’s Southern Miss.’ But for UTEP and UAB it was
UH vs ECU When: 7 p.m. tonight Where: Hofheinz Pavilion On the air: 790 AM Admission: Students free with Cougar One card. like, ‘We’ve got something to prove.’ We can’t be like that if we want to be a championship team.” The Cougars were picked to finish seventh in C-USA behind teams like UTEP, UAB and Memphis in the preseason poll. But he also knows he and his teammates won’t be able to convince anybody they are one of the elite teams in the conference if they can’t consistently outplay their competition. “It’s like playing on the playground. You’ve got players that are supposed to be this and that. When you go against them, you are going to go even harder just because of his name so you can get respect. That’s what it is,” Coleman said. “We’re trying to get respect, and when we come down on those little teams we’ve got to run through them. We ain’t proved nothing yet. We haven’t done anything.” However, that task has been more difficult than expected for
The daily cougar FILE PHOTO
Freshman point guard Desmond Wade’s ball-handling abilities have led the Cougars to the best assist-to-turnover ratio in Conference USA. Coleman and the 11-4 Cougars. They may have a 2-1 conference record, but this is a league that has eight teams with winning records, each of which have legitimate nonconference victories. UH head coach Tom Penders knows the Cougars are an improved team compared to last season’s College Basketball Invitational team, but the rest of the league has kept pace. That means the Cougars may hit a few speed bumps in tonight’s 7 p.m. matchup with the Pirates. “East Carolina is 9-7. I think last year at this point they were something like 5-10,” Penders said.
FIGHTINGWORDS
“You’ve got some good players in the league, and a lot of veteran players in the league. It makes for a more interesting conference. ” Penders said he hopes to receive a better homecourt advantage from the fans. The team needs it this season because they are facing stiff competition. “The students are the key,” Penders said. “When you get 2,000-to-3,000 alumnus or older fans, and then get 2,000 students…you’ve got a heck of an environment here. We definitely need that.” sports@thedailycougar.com
Entering tonight’s game against East Carolina, the UH men’s basketball team faces a steep, uphill climb toward its first NCAA Tournament berth since the 1991-92 season. The Cougars are 11-4 and 2-1 in Conference Ronnie Turner USA midway through the regular season. That’s not bad, but it’s not great when one considers that the Cougars’ Rating Percentage Index is only 97, according to NCAA.com. The Cougars are in the “we need to win our conference tournament to get to the Big Dance” territory. But they still need to ward off all of their C-USA rivals to gain a favorable seed in the tournament. Thankfully, the Cougars will have UH junior guard Kelvin Lewis leading the charge.
Mr. Consistent When it comes to consistency, few have matched Lewis. He leads the Cougars in scoring at 20 points per game, having scored in double see ASSASSIN, page 11
At issue: How would you grade the Rockets’ performance this season so far?
» Rockets starting to make the grade
» Rockets pick up slack without T-Mac
» Rockets fall short of perfect GPA
» Man crushes on Yao are not healthy
If I know Judge Dredd, then I know he hates wimps. He does not like a guy who is always sitting on the bench, and neither do most Rockets fans. Rockets fans can’t be too angry with the team because it has stayed in contention in the Southwest Division. The Rockets have beaten the Celtics, Jazz Matt and Nuggets despite Miller playing numerous games without Ron Artest, Tracy McGrady and Shane Battier. Yao Ming is the main man now. He is playing like a man, averaging close to 20 points and 10 rebounds a game. Aaron Brooks is having a wonderful sophomore campaign, and Von Wafer has finally found his place in the NBA. Fans have to be excited about the Rockets’ performance of late. However, this team took too long to tell McGrady to rehab his injury and come back and play in every game, or not play at all. The Rockets have also been way too protective of Battier and Artest. 26-16 isn’t bad for a wimp, so I’ll give Houston’s NBA franchise a B.
Please Matt, don’t try to suck up to Judge Dredd to get a Fighting Words victory. The truth about the Rockets performance so far is they are playing great despite the on-going saga of the Tracy McGrady injury situation. The minor injuries to Shane Battier and Ron Artest have not slowed down the Keith Rockets. Houston is Cordero Jr. competing in a very tough division, where they trail the Spurs by a couple of games. They also have a huge win at the defending champion Boston Celtics to build their confidence. The Rockets have eight players averaging nine or more points a game, with shooting guard Von Wafer coming from last man to make the team to starting shooting guard. Yao is in the zone, coming off of a 12-for-12 game last week against the Miami Heat. He followed that up with a 31-point performance in a home win against the Denver Nuggets Monday. Houston will play Utah Wednesday in a test to see if they are a championship team. I’ll give the Rockets a B-plus with a healthy McGrady.
Given the Rockets’ overall body of work, I think that their performance merits a B-minus. However, I’m willing to raise that to a B on the strength of five wins in their last six games. That’s as far as I’m willing to go. The Rockets aren’t on the same level as the Ronnie Celtics, Cavaliers, Turner Magic or Lakers, but they aren’t as mediocre as a lot of other teams. They’re somewhere in between. The Rockets were wise to finally force Tracy McGrady to the bench. With a bum knee, he was a liability on both ends of the court, especially defense, and he tended to stunt the Rockets’ offense. The Rockets clearly play better when he’s not on the court. The best-case scenario for both parties is if McGrady sits out until his rehab is complete. If he has to sit out for longer than expected, I doubt the Rockets will falter because of that. Too often, the Rockets’ livelihood revolves around McGrady’s health. That shouldn’t be the case this season.
Judge Dredd noticed three things of interest while evaluating this week’s participants. No. 1: Somebody takes notes. There’s nothing Judge Dredd despises more than wimps, but he refers to them as umbrellacarrying sissies. No. 2: Keith used the words “Judge Dredd” and “suck” in the same sentence. Judge Dredd knows that in Judge the context of that particular Dredd sentence he wasn’t exactly insulting Judge Dredd. However, Judge Dredd shows no mercy, because mercy is a sign of weakness shown by umbrellacarrying sissies. Therefore, Keith is disqualified for being an insubordinate bastard. No. 3: The Rockets run more smoothly without a hobbled McGrady in the rotation. Judge Dredd has been thinking that all season. The defense causes more turnovers and the offense is less stagnant. Judge Dredd gives the franchise a B, and he gives Keith an F for having a man-crush on Yao’s stats. That’s kind of creepy. Judge Dredd knows he’s not the only one who noticed. The winner: Ronnie “The Burner” Turner takes the first round of Fighting Words in 2009.
FAC E T I M E
The Arizona Cardinals are in the Super Bowl, Barack Obama is the president of the United States, and LeBron James is the best basketball player on the planet. 2009 looks good already.
Fighting Words is a sports forum among Daily Cougar columnists. A question is posed to the group and anything goes. Their answers are evaluated by Judge Dredd based on which one is the best at beating down the other two.
SPORTS
The Daily Cougar
RESERVATIONS FOR SIX
Cardinals look to veteran player The Arizona Cardinals are going to Super Bowl XLIII. The Cardinals were a No. 4 seed in the NFC, thought to be outmatched by the defending champion New York Giants and explosive Carolina Keith Panthers. The Cardinals Cordero Jr. rolled over the Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons en route to their first ever Super Bowl appearance. On the other hand you have the Pittsburgh Steelers — who sport the No. 1 defense in the NFL — going to their league-record seventh Super Bowl in franchise history. Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger already won a Super Bowl when the Steelers topped the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XL. Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner will make his third Super Bowl appearance on Feb. 1. Warner led the St. Louis Rams to a victory over the Tennessee Titans in 1999 to earn his only ring. He will become the second quarterback to start in a Super Bowl for two franchises. The leadership and experience of Warner will anchor the team as it goes into its fourth consecutive game as an underdog. Warner’s four touchdowns in the NFC Championship game showed everyone he can still air it out and make key plays. This year, Warner returned to tip-top form, passing for 4,583 yards and 30 touchdowns to secure an NFC West title for Arizona. The Cardinals will look to continue to run the ball effectively with veteran Edgerrin James and rookie standout Tim Hightower. Arizona’s resurgent running game will enable Warner to get the ball to his threesome of stud receivers: first team NFL All-Pro Larry Fitzgerald,
IF YOU GO SUPER BOWL XLIII Who: Arizona Cardinals Pittsburgh Steelers When: 5 p.m., Feb. 1 Where: Tampa Bay, Fla. On the air: NBC Anquan Boldin and Steve Breaston. The Steelers’ defense must force turnovers if they plan to win. The veteran squad, led by Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison and star safety Troy Polamalu, will look to contain the Cardinals’ high-powered air attack. Pittsburgh defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau will use multiple blitz and cover packages to confuse and put pressure on Warner and his receivers. Pittsburgh will need big plays to answer the Cardinals’ potent offense. In order to do this, Willie Parker needs to run how he ran in Super Bowl XL. In that game, Parker ripped down the right side of the field for a 75-yard touchdown run, the longest in Super Bowl history. Parker won’t be effective unless Roethlisberger gets the ball to the speedy receiver Santonio Holmes, who averaged 15 yards per reception during the regular season. He also has a punt return and receiving touchdown this postseason. Cardinals head coach and former Steelers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt knows what is in store for him when Arizona faces his former team in the biggest game of the year. Whisenhunt was supposed to take over for former Steelers head coach Bill Cowher, but the job went to Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, former defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. Whisenhunt would like nothing better than to shove a Super Bowl title in the face of the team that let him go. Prediction: Cardinals 27, Steelers 20. sports@thedailycougar.com
Wednesday, January 21, 2009 n 11
ASSASSIN continued from page 10
figures in each game. Over the last four games Lewis has averaged 24.5 points on 44.8 percent shooting. The Cougars are 3-1 in that span. The best outing of Lewis’ career came in Saturday’s 83-76 loss at Southern Miss. He scored a careerhigh 30 points (21 in the second half),.Plus, Lewis is not a one-trick pony. He can do more than hold his own on defense. Watch a film of Lewis shutting down Alabama-Birmingham’s Robert Vaden, who hit only four of 13 shots in the Cougars’ 75-56 win on Jan. 10, and you’ll see just how talented he is. “Kelvin is a great defensive player, and hopefully he’ll start getting some
respect for that part of his game,” UH head coach Tom Penders said after that game. Lewis is putting together a great season in his second season with the Cougars after transferring from Auburn. But you rarely hear him talk about that. He’s humble and prefers to let his coaches and teammates hand over all of the praises. That’s the kind of attitude that the Cougars are going to need during the second half of the regular season, which includes a rematch with Texas-El Paso, a huge game at Arizona and two big meetings against C-USA frontrunner Memphis.
Revenge factor But before the Cougars get around to those games, they have some unfinished business to settle with ECU (9-7, 1-2 C-USA).
Last season, the Cougars were upset 84-83 by the Pirates in Greenville, N.C. The Cougars were 21-6 heading into the game and on track to land an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament, but were derailed after losing to a 9-17 ECU squad. Three members of this year’s team (Lewis, senior guard DaShaun Williams and senior center Marcus Cousin) played in that game. Each has eyes set on revenge against ECU. Lewis and junior guard Aubrey Coleman (18.1 points per game) are playing better than anyone else on the team, but Lewis has been more consistent. And that bodes well for the Cougars as they head into the second half of the season. sports@thedailycougar.com
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Track & Field
Team takes third in season opener Cougar Sports Services The UH men’s and women’s track and field teams opened their seasons with third place finishes in the Leonard Hilton Memorial on Friday at Yeoman Fieldhouse. The men finished with 65.25 points after 14 events, 17 points behind the meet’s winner, Rice. The Owls also took first place in the women’s event with 117 points, as UH’s 63 points in the 15 events landed the Cougars well short of first place. Senior Seun Adigun won the women’s 60-meter hurdle event with a time of 8.34 seconds, the sixthfastest mark in the NCAA this season. However, Adigun fell short in the women’s 60-meter dash, finishing fifth with a time of 7.59 seconds. Sophomore Christie Jones’ time of 7.54 gave her a fourth-place finish. Sophomore Chris Carter took first place in the men’s long jump, leaping 7.11 meters.
Freshman Matt Dudley finished second in the men’s shot put competition with a throw of 15.70 meters. On the women’s side, sophomore Kiara Pulliam finished in second place after tossing a personal best of 14.33 meters. In the men’s triple jump, junior Lamar Delaney finished in third with a leap of 14.95 meters. Senior Dayo Ogunniyi led the UH women in the long jump after her 5.76 meter leap landed her in fifth place. Sophomore Laura Allred finished fifth in the women’s high jump competition, clearing 1.65 meters. Freshman Selleck Keene cleared 1.94 meters to post a ninth place finish. Next up for the Cougars is the New Mexico Cherry Silver Invitational, which will be held on Saturday inside of the Albuquerque Convention Center. sports@thedailycougar.com
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FEATURES
12 n Wednesday, January 21, 2009
UH unraveling DNA By Marc Anderson THE DAILY COUGAR The University of Houston’s rare $500,000 “next generation sequencer” has elevated Cougar researchers in Texas’ genome research community. The results of research made possible by the sequencer have wide-reaching implications for the future of medicine. In Assistant Professor Preethi Gunaratne’s lab alone, research is being carried out on stem cells, cancer, asthma, and other aspects of genetic regulation. A project called Human Microbiome uses the sequencer to study bacteria-human interactions at the genetic level. “This technology allows us to look at diseases as never before,” Gunaratne said. Using the sequencer to quickly determine an individual’s genome could eventually lead to personalized medicine and riskadjusted therapies that best suit the individual’s health needs. The sequencer could also be used to understand the genetic errors that cause cells to turn cancerous and lead to targeted treatments that are more effective and have fewer side effects than current practices. Manufactured by the California-based biotech company Illumina, the sequencer looks like a blue cube about the size of an oven with a few tubes, panels and a cable attatched to a lab computer.
As the sequencer deciphers samples’ genetic codes, the computer analyzes the data for researchers. A grant from the Cullen Foundation to the University’s Institute for Molecular Design paid for the sequencer. Its findings generated seven journal publications and four research grants over the past year alone. Additionally, other research institutions have worked with the University to take advantage of the sequencer. Scientists from Baylor College of Medicine, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Texas A&M and Quebec have outsourced samples to the University sequencer for their own research. Ashley Benham, a biology graduate student in Gunaratne’s lab, said that the number of outside researchers sending their samples to the University will “pick up immensely once people get the preparation protocol down.” Local researchers are enamored with the sequencer, as outsourcing genetic samples to a local lab saves money on shipping. “It is unbelievable how much shipping costs,” Assistant Professor Zhenkang Xu said. Before the University had the sequencer to analyze its own genetic samples, outsourcing one sample to another lab cost more than $3000. Benham estimated that his research lab saved 50 percent on analyzing samples by using its own sequencer instead of relying on other laboratories’ equipment.
Sequencing genetic samples in-house also preserves accuracy. Outsourced samples can be over 20 percent inaccurate, while in-house sequencing yields 95 percent accuracy on average. The sequencer itself works using a new technique known as “sequencing by synthesis.” DNA is a double-stranded molecule composed of nucleotide bases known by their initials A, T, G and C. The order of these nucleotides comprises the genetic code or sequence. These nucleotides pair up across the two strands of DNA, with A nucleotides matching only to T nucleotides, and G nucleotides matching only to C nucleotides. The sequencer determines the sequence of a single strand of DNA by making its complementary strand out of fluorescently labeled nucleotides that can then be “read” by the machine’s optics. Sequencing by synthesis is a vast improvement over the older “sanger” and “shotgun” methods of nucleotide sequencing. Gunaratne recognized the value of the machine early on and sold John Bear, dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, on the idea by explaining that it would allow University researchers to sequence a bacterial genome in as little as seven hours “The potential is huge,” she said. features@thedailycougar.com
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MONROE
political science junior Michelle Pena said. “He embodies The Honors continued from page 8 College. He’s very open about from the University of Texas. himself, and he treats you as He has taught Contemporary a friend even though he’s a American Fiction, Literature professor. I don’t know the dean and Medicine, Literature and of communications, or political Alienation and the Human science, but I know the dean of Situation course at The Honors the Honors College.” College and will continue That openness is a trait teaching. familiar to many students “It’s important for me to and made an impression on keep teaching The Honors and to have College “I think that there are ways that kind of alumnus Jim to be in touch with students McCormick. contact with the students,” “Even outside of the classroom ... Monroe said. being on the but there’s something really periphery, “I think that there are ways you could see special about the literary to be in touch that he was classroom. It is a resource with students really cool,” and lifeline to the life of the McCormick outside of the classroom, said. “No students.” which I also one wants to — William Monroe, The Honors College dean miss one of will maintain, but there’s Dr. Monroe’s something class parties. really special about the literary They’re a lot of fun and a great classroom. It is a resource way to get to know him and and lifeline to the life of the other students.” students.” Monroe’s approachability Architecture senior Kiza extends outside the UH campus. Forgie praised Monroe’s efforts “I saw him in Starbucks. to connect with students. He came in with his son who “The professional level is had just graduated college. worthless if you don’t have My friend and I were there, a personal knowledge of the and he called us by name and students. It’s really nice because I introduced us,” Pena said. “You feel like he kind of reaches out to have to be in touch with the people on every level,” Forgie said. people you’re serving. If you’re Students said that finding the in touch with their needs then perfect fit for dean was crucial you’ll do a better job simply to maintaining the tight knit because you’ll know what they bond of The Honors College. need and what you can do to “No one else knows the help.” dynamics of The Honors (College) more than he does,” features@thedailycougar.com
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NEWS
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STUDENTS continued from page 1
History sophomore Nicole Zimmerman said Obama’s election will be especially beneficial to the U.S. in public perception abroad, but she fears the nation is focusing on the wrong qualities. “Although I believe he is well qualified to be our president regardless of race, the fact that he is black will help significantly to bring different segments of society closer together and allow them to better act
FACULTY continued from page 1
Obama administration, but Timothy Howard, a lecturer in the department of political science at UH, said the biggest obstacle to overcome will be others’ expectations. “The power of the president is the power to persuade and negotiate with Congress, the press and the public, and (Obama’s) considerable oratory and intellectual skills should serve him well, (but) the euphoria of his election will fade and its symbolism become less relevant the longer he is in office,” Howard said. Obama will inherit the White House during a tumultuous time in international relations as well, and foreign policy will be a difficult area to try and forge an independent path, said assistant professor of political science Timothy Hellwig. “The situation in Gaza is particularly problematic. We rely on Israel for a lot of intelligence on potential terrorist activities aimed against the West, so
as one.” Zimmerman said. Eventually Americans will have to put celebrating aside and understand the huge challenges that may hinder this administration from meeting expectations in areas such as the economy and the cost of energy, Zimmerman said. “Our foreign dependence on energy by extension affects foreign policy and weakens our position in the global market,” she said. Obama’s policy agenda is extensive, with plans to address issues dealing with defense, education, foreign policy and healthcare. Civil
rights is also a matter expected to face change, said psychology sophomore Olivia Kaufman. “Second to the economy, I do feel like there will be a change in civil rights, from stronger antidiscrimination laws to same-sex partnership benefits,” Kaufman said. Perhaps in contrast to Kaufman’s hopes, Obama invited Rev. Rick Warren of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Ca. to read the invocation at his inauguration, which has caused a backlash from GLBT groups because of Warren’s support for California’s anti-gay marriage amendment,
President Obama will not be able to roundly condemn Israel without jeopardizing our access to Israeli intelligence,” Hellwig said. “Conversely, not condemning Israel makes it more difficult for the U.S. to win the war on terrorism ... real battleground is for the hearts and minds of Muslims everywhere.” Despite economic trouble at home and paradoxical problems over seas, LeVeaux is optimistic about Obama’s immediate impact on U.S.’s image. “Many world leaders welcome his election because of this. However, there will be some that will continue to strike out against the U.S. for what it represents and for past actions,” LeVeaux said. Hellwig agrees, saying that most countries overseas were hoping for the Obama victory. “As news of Obama’s election spread across the country and across the world on election night, spontaneous demonstrations of joy broke out, much like when the astronauts landed on the moon, or when the Berlin Wall came down,”
Howard said. “People’s faith in America, that we are at heart a good nation, will be restored to an extent we haven’t seen since JFK.” However, others’ reactions may be of concern for the first black President. Howard fears that conservatives will use Obama’s election to argue that racism is dead, thereby discrediting the need for affirmative action in college admissions and the workplace. The good news, Howard said, is that many on the political right have become overtly apprehensive and in so doing exposed the racism inherent in conservative philosophy, making it easier to expose and discredit. Obama has more than just big shoes to fill — he has blazed a trail no other president has had to walk. “Even (for) young people who have only heard stories about racism and discrimination, (this election) is inspirational,” LeVeaux said. From a global perspective, other countries have become just as inspired about the election as The U.S.
Because your words matter. Have you been misquoted? Though The Daily Cougar strives for accuracy and fairness in its reporting, mistakes happen. Please report any errors you see in the paper to the editorial staff. Corrections will run on Page 2 as needed to amend the record. To report a correction, e-mail editor@thedailycougar.com or call (713) 743-5362.
Join Our Winning Team! PAPPAS RESTAURANTS DOOR HOSTS & SERVERS If you’re motivated and enthusiastic, we want to talk to you! Apply at the location nearest you today! PAPPAS SEAFOOD HOUSE 19991 I-45 S. @ NASA Rd. 1, Webster PAPPASITO~S CANTINA 11831 I-10 East @ Federal Rd. 2515 S. Loop West @ So. Main EOE M/F/D/V/A
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009 n 13 Proposition 8. Obama can expect to spend much of his time rebuilding bridges that were burned long ago, Lovett said, adding she knows several gay individuals who fully supported Obama and chose not to watch his inauguration because the privilege given to Warren was hurtful to the gay community. “While you want to keep everyone happy, you need to remember the people who put you where you are,” Lovett said. Obama also faces problems that were well-established long-before Bush was in the picture, said English
senior Eli Reyes said. “We have had the same president for the past eight years and we have taken a downturn as a society. Drug problems that pre-dated President Bush, economic melt-down and the Iraq war — it all is turning on us now,” Reyes said. Obama may be the symbol of change, Reyes said only time will tell what his administration actually accomplishes. “We have to wait and see,” he said. news@thedailycougar.com
Sound like you? These symptoms could be more than just PMS — they can also describe PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder). Baylor College of Medicine is conducting a clinical study of FDA-approved drugs ,YAZ and YASMIN, to determine if they are effective in relieving PMDD stress in women ages 13 to 20. Participants will complete a diary in addition to receiving medication in this study. Females between 13 and 20 experiencing these symptoms and comfortable with tampon use may be able to participate. Parental consent is required under age 18.
Call 713-798-5295 volunteer@bcm.edu
14 n Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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HELP WANTED APPOINTMENT SETTERS and career agents for Aflac Insurance. Flex hrs, no exp necessary, will train. Good benefits. Base+commission. Stable company. 713-240-7352 !BARTENDING! up to $300 a day, no exp necessary, training provided. 18+ ok. 800-965-6520 ext.145 $$$EASY MONEY$$$- Need a job? Anyone can do this. CALL NOW 281485-7663 FT/PT FLEXIBLE PT MEDICAL SALES OPPORTUNITY within the aesthetic field. Please call at 281-773-9551 MAKE UP TO 75 DOLLARS per online survey, www.cashtospend.com MONTESSORI school near Museum dist. Looking for PT/FT. Infant to EC teacher assistants. Call Tara 713-520-0738
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STUDENT HANDYMAN to help remodel duplex apt. near campus. Must have own tools. 713-743-2734, 713-4659610.
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COMICS & MORE
The Daily Cougar
Wednesday, January 21, 2009 n 15
COUGAR COMICS
today’s crossword
The Waves by Bissan Rafe
ACROSS 1 Util. bill 5 Priggish 10 Tow-away — 14 Ceremony 15 Examine closely 16 Desert dweller 17 Astronaut — Shepard 18 Quiet spells 19 Fictional sub commander 20 Smallest piggy? (2 wds.) 22 Gone up 23 — Dawn Chong 24 Chevron shape 25 Pasta dish 29 Gave a hard time 33 Caspian Sea range 34 Travel far and wide 36 Sock it — —! 37 Burnish 38 Remove paint 39 Big clumsy guy 40 Fitzgerald or Raines 42 Ms. Dinesen 43 Timex rival 45 Make tempura (hyph.) 47 Luau strummer 49 Pub pint 50 Laid up 51 Humane org. 54 Flashy wheels (2 wds.) 60 Cream potatoes 61 Dye process 62 Sherpa’s sighting 63 Besides 64 Dazzle 65 Blissful spot 66 Volleyball needs 67 Exclaimed over 68 Broadcast
Dim Sum by Ho Yi Lau
Man Law by Chris Jacobs
DOWN 1 Of a time period 2 “Hi- —, Hi-Lo” 3 French state 4 Main
At the Hot Dog Stand by Mishele Lamshing
1
2
Find answers at thedailycougar.com/puzzles 3
4
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today’s sudoku (Difficulty: 3/5)
32
50
53
5 Internal organ 6 Drawn tight 7 Woody’s son 8 Atlas dot 9 — Plaines 10 Most wacky 11 Crude metals 12 Reputation 13 Poet’s black 21 Drops behind 22 Matter, in law 24 Mae West persona 25 Put out bait 26 As — — (usually) 27 Luxury fur 28 — -craftsy 29 Zen poem 30 Set free 31 AOL message
31
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49 51
30 36
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2009 United FeAture Syndicate INC.
(hyph.) Previous puzzle solved 32 “Moll Flanders” author WE L D E R G A I D I S C 35 Mouths E OC E N E OW L A GH A 38 Pup’s pop E N D I V E O A K B L O B 41 Cochise, e.g. G O L D F I S H B OW L 43 Weed out C A R N Y OU T A L ON E 44 Watching closely R D A S L O P V I E (2 wds.) A I D F E D V A R S I T Y ME A E V A A D D L I E 46 Gulf st. P U R S U E D N E O I T S 48 Punted A D E S I R MA L E 51 Revival shout V I S T A G A S J A D E S 52 Closeout 53 Attention getter A C H I L L E S H E E L L E A R ON S A L L E G E 54 Doll’s cry V A L E B E E C L E V E R 55 Provo’s place E X E S E S S HO T E L S 56 Volume 57 Yield 58 Pharaoh’s god Find answers to past puzzles at 59 Outer coat thedailycougar.com/puzzles 61 Sheep sound
»
Find answers at thedailycougar.com/puzzles
How to play
Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3-by-3 boxes must also contain the numbers 1 to 9.
Previous puzzle solved
Limbo by Paulo Aninag
?dl[hj[Z 7Zl[hj_i_d]
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16 n Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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