Issue 94, Volume 74 by The Cougar

THE DAILY COUGAR E!

INSID

TODAY’S WEATHER

Opposite day in the life of ‘Coraline’/LIFE & ARTS

Musick to our ears: ‘I knew ... I was going to come back’ /SPORTS

3-day forecast, Page 2

Hi 75 Lo 65

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Issue 94, Volume 74

www.thedailycougar.com

Prof awarded for anxiety research By Larissa Gonzalez The Daily Cougar Peter Norton, director of the UH Anxiety Disorder Clinic (ADC), received the annual Theodore Blau Early Career Award for his professional accomplishments in clinical psychology Jan. 21. “It’s a great honor. When I opened the envelope, I let out a big cheer,” associate professor Norton said. “(I hope the award) gives a little bit more credibility to the psychology department and to the work my team and I have been doing here at the University.” Norton said he sees the recognition as an opportunity “to

reach out and help more people with anxiety disorders or to simply help other practitioners in studying anxiety disorders.” He was nominated for the award by his former colleague, psychology professor Martin M. Anthony of Ryerson University in Toronto. Anthony g g Norton is a previous recipient of the award. The award recognizes “professionals for promoting the practice of clinical psychology

through professional service … or other novel or creative activities advancing the service of the profession,” according to ADC’s Web site. As a clinical psychologist, Norton has been dedicated to running ADC, training graduate and undergraduate students on how to conduct research. He also organizes community workshops to train future therapists, as well as for his research on testing and improving upon anxiety disorder treatments. In addition, Norton has authored more than 60 research papers and has delivered presentations to the American Psychological Association for his work on anxiety.

Suzanne Klenck is the assistant director of ADC and has been contributing to research for the past four years. “It is really nice to see Norton receive this award. He is great to work with and he has a phenomenal career ahead of him,” Klenck said. “It is also great to bring awareness to the ADC and let people know that there is ‘state-of-the-art’ treatment here in Houston at a very low cost.” Jessica Grogan is a graduate research assistant and has been working at ADC for three years. “Norton’s awards represent the contribution he has made to the field of clinical psychology while still early in his career,” Grogan said.

“He provides graduate students the opportunity to present and publish with him on his main projects as well as encouraging them to develop their own lines of research within anxiety or in related fields.” In December, Norton coauthored The Anti-Anxiety Workbook with Anthony. The self-help book came out of the realization that “the vast majority of people with anxiety disorders aren’t receiving treatment.” Norton said he hopes the book will allow his cognitive-behavioral therapy tips and research findings to go where they are needed most, see NORTON, page 3

SFAC hearings to adjourn

after review

By Steven Oster The Daily Cougar The Student Fees Advisory Committee will discuss the use of tuition fees for proposals today, on the last of a 3-day meeting held in the Bluebonnet Room, University Center. SFAC is considering proposals from the Department of Counseling and Psychological Services, the Athletics Department, the Student Government Association and Student Services. CAPS is requesting $67,612 for the addition of a fulltime psychologist with expertise in military trauma. The University of Houston lags behind other schools in the psychologist-to-student ratio, as the International Association of Counseling Services recommends one clinician per every 1,500 students. The University of Houston has a ratio of one clinician for every 3,522 students. With student enrollment forecasted to increase in the fall semester, the ratio will be further displaced. The Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 will take effect August 2009. The bill will subsidize tuition, fees, books, supplies and housing for eligible veterans. A large influx of student veterans is expected for the fall semester. “We do not have figures at this time, but it is expected that 250,000 servicemen and women will be returning and will have the funding to attend a higher education institution,” CAPS interim director Norma Ngo said. Many veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder would benefit from specialized counseling services, Ngo said. The addition of a full-time specialized psychologist would also allow the program to provide outreach services to students, crisis intervention and training for University personnel on signs of suicide. The importance of counseling services has become increasingly apparent after incidents like those in Virginia Tech, Ngo said. The Athletics Department is seeking funds for upgrades to existing facilities such as Robertson stadium. “If you look at the bathrooms (in Robertson stadium) compared with others, the need for an update becomes obvious,” Athletics director David Maggard said. One of the most visible aspects of a university for incoming students and casual observers is the Athletics Department, Maggard said. Increased funding could see SFAC, page 3

Courtesy of Air Force ROTC

Full metal jog-it

ouston Corps of Cadets stretch together Monday in the Garrison Hall parking lot after completing their annual Valentine’s Day jog. The three-mile early-morning trek was open to all partcipants who could keep up the nine-minute-mile pace. The cadets represented Air Force ROTC, Army ROTC, and Navy/Marine ROTC.

Vigil to be held for Tall Pastor says remembering murder victim will help begin healing process By Zaneta Loh The Daily Cougar UH Lutheran Campus Ministry will hold a campuswide prayer vigil at the Metro bus stop on the 3400 Block of Cullen Boulevard on Wednesday. The vigil is at the site where Joe Tall was shot to death on Feb. 7 while sleeping on the bench at the bus stop. Pastor Bradley Fuerst, who has worked with Lutheran Campus Ministry for a year a half at the University, said he wanted to make sure Tall’s death did not

go without proper memorial. “Didn’t it amaze you that life kind of just went on?” Fuerst said. “I’m driving by there and there’s people waiting for the bus. It’s like nothing ever happened.” Fuerst said he wanted to help those affected by the shooting begin the healing process through the vigil. “When you see something like that on the front page (of the newspaper), I think that is what rattles a lot of people, but then we just carry on without marking it,” he said. “That doesn’t mean we walk around

and hang our heads. …What it means is taking some time to turn aside, to stop, to say, ‘This is what happened here. A life was taken.’ In doing that, there is some healing.” Fuerst is handing out fliers to encourage members of the UH community to attend. “Everyone’s welcome. That means students, staff, faculty, Muslim, Christian, Jewish — I don’t care. I think none of us ought to care about that,” he said. see VIGIL, page 3

2 n Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The Daily Cougar

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Today Yearbook photo week: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Claudette Room, UC Satellite. Last chance to get your photo in the yearbook. Visit www.uh.edu/sp. Campus Recruitment Workshop: 10 to 11 a.m. at Student Service Center 1, first floor. Completion of a Campus Recruitment Workshop (CRW) is required to participate in campus recruitment or on-campus interviews. Piano concert: 7:30 p.m. at Moores Opera House. Featuring pianist Timothy Hester. General admissions are $10 for faculty, staff and alumni and $5 for patrons over 55 and students with ID. Call (713) 743-3313 or visit www.music.uh.edu.

Wednesday Straight Jobs, Gay Lives: 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Student Service Center 1, first floor. The goal of this workshop on sexual orientation and career choices is to understand issues faced by GLBT people in the workplace. Film Screening: 7 to 9:30 p.m. at Cullen Performance Hall. Learn about challenges facing Mexican laborers in Maquilapolis. Followed by talk by cast member Carmen Duran of Tijuana. Contact uofh.sas@gmail.com or visit http://uhstudentsagainstsweatshops.wordpress.com/.

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Junior gets revenge for prank Sean Balay: Where do you work? Eric Boykin: I work at a little bar off I-10 and Highway 6 called Lomonte’s. ... I like my boss and all of my co-workers. Balay: Do you still consider them coworkers or are they more friends? Boykin: I’d say they’re more friends than anything. We hang out a lot after work and I’ve known some of them longer than I’ve been working here. Balay: I’ve heard some fantastic stories about waiters and bartenders. Care to share any? Boykin: (laughs) Well, we like to play pranks on one another. Balay: What’s the worst prank the other workers have pulled on you? Boykin: Well, Saturday night I had a big Valentine’s date, but had to work beforehand. The guys at work knew this, so they decided to hold me up a bit. Balay: What happened? Boykin: They decided to let all the air out of my tires, pour melted butter on my windshield and stick strips of newspaper to the butter. Balay: Did you have something to inflate the tires with? Boykin: Nope, I don’t own a compressor or anything remotely helpful to work with. Balay: Did you cancel your date? Boykin: No, my general manager had a

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Eric Boykin, finance junior

compressor in his car that he let me borrow, but it took almost 30 minutes to inflate each tire. Not to mention, I had to drive with my head out the window so I could see where I’m going. Balay: Have you planned your retaliation yet? Boykin: I froze the guy’s keys. Balay: What? Boykin: Yeah, I froze his keys. He owned up to the prank before he left, so I took his keys, put them in a Ziploc bag, filled a carafe with water and stuck them in the freezer. He was forced to sit there with me while I inflated my tires and wait for his keys to defrost. Balay: That’s pretty sinister. Photo by Sean Balay

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NORTON continued from page 1

“beyond” his clinic’s walls, to affected individuals who may not have specialists in their community. “In reaching out to people with anxiety disorders we have to realize that the idea of treatment, social stigma or speaking with a mental health professional, can be a real source of anxiety as well,” Norton said. Emphasizing the scientific nature of the field, Norton believes “psychology involves a commitment to research.” “People tend to get caught up in less effective treatments. The (Food and Drug Administration) can oversee the effectiveness of medical treatment options, but for therapies there really is no regulatory body,” he said. He said this makes it difficult to obtain the best therapy or self help available. “The Anti-Anxiety Workbook intends to make an effective and scientifically-proven treatment available to the people who need it. It is written a way that people can get real benefit from it,” Norton said. His focus on anxiety disorders

SFAC continued from page 1

bring a higher profile and increased enrollment for the University. Increased ticket sales to sporting events would bring auxiliary income through stadium parking fees, concessions sales and sales of University apparel. The SGA is requesting a base fund augmentation in order to continue operating at its current pace and to support its expanding scope of community events. “Keep in mind also that SGA donates probably about $5,000 to other events and organizations yearly. That is a part of our multidimensional approach. We aid other student organizations and departments in hopes of uniting the campus,” SGA director of finance Amanda Wong said. The only increases for the coming budget are non-controllable costs such as secretary salary raises, administrative charges, and paid overtime to SGA employees such as secretaries. “The reason for the requested increase is because since SGA has efficiently spent our allotted yearly budget, it will be difficult to reallocate our budget to cover nearly $4,000 in non-controllable increases,” Wong said. Elwyn Lee, vice president for Student Affairs confronted SFAC with a broad scope of affairs such as commuter services, counseling, student publications and Frontier Fiesta. “This year is an important year to sustain and re-invigorate Frontier Fiesta. I’m hoping to get some relief from administrative costs,” Lee said. With the student service fee at $185, SFAC will determine if a change is needed for the Student Affairs budget. “Student Affairs puts a priority on student life, and creates conditions to make students successful,” said Lee. SFAC is meeting at 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Students are free to attend and ask questions on how the fees will be spent. news@thedailycougar.com

originated from his experiences as a master’s candidate of sports psychology at the University of Western Australia. “An understanding of anxiety or ‘arousal control’ was central to helping others maintain a clear head/focus in stressful sports scenarios,” he said. While the field fascinated him, Norton said he became interested in the role of fear and anxiety beyond the sports world, in the general population and in every day life. Insights from his research and work started moving his professional scope toward anxiety disorders and the quality of treatment options. “There are many misconceptions of anxiety disorders. Mostly people just assume that these behaviors are simply part of who they are,” Norton said. “Often they don’t realize that through treatment, there are changes that can be made to improve their quality of life.” Improving the lives of those affected with anxiety disorders is a vision that has become central to his work as director of ADC, Norton said. The facility opened in 2004 and continues to serve as a specialty treatment and research clinic on the University’s campus. Norton’s team studies a number of anxiety

disorders. “The research we do on anxiety disorders reaches all across the board, from phobias to obsessive compulsive disorder to social anxiety to post-traumatic stress disorder,” Norton said. Located in the Psychological Research and Services Center, the clinic is open to anyone in need (from the UH community to the general population). The clinic provides low cost, state-of-theart behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders. The clinic is also the site of research for several anxiety disorders and where investigations are made about how to improve available treatments. It serves as the training site for clinical psychology graduate students. He said statistics have consistently shown that 15 to 20 percent of the population will have an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Norton’s research is advancing treatment options and advocating for those who may develop the disorder. The ADC is located in the Psychological Research and Services Center at 4505 Cullen Blvd. For more information, call (713) 743-8600. news@thedailycougar.com

Tuesday, February 17, 2009 n 3

VIGIL continued from page 1

Fuerst is also reaching out to leaders from various campus religious groups to incorporate different religious beliefs in the vigil. “I would like to have them bring their holy texts and pick out something to read. After every reading, we would have silence and may say a few words after that, but then we’d have prayer and people would be free to stay as long as they want,” he said. Fuerst said the vigil will give students an outlet to express the effect the shooting has had on them. “We mopped things up because we don’t want to be confronted by our own mortality,” he said. Fuerst said people can be “spiritually wounded” by events such as the shooting, but society doesn’t give those emotions much merit. He said students’ “spiritual identities” can be attacked when they are questioned about personal faith or forced to face topics such as death. “The scene usually looks something like this — a personality on campus barking at the students

and saying things where they know they’re going to engage others, and there are standers by who have their feelings hurt,” Fuerst said. “We think about wounds being physical, and I think we’ve even made progress in terms of wounds being emotional and psychological, but we don’t think about spiritually wounding someone.” Fuerst said the vigil will also bring to light the challenging situations homeless people face every day. “We have so many people in this community that are confronted with violence, lack of protection, lack of provision,” he said. “This reminds us that there’s so many people whose daily reality is this.” The vigil will begin at 7 p.m. at the Metro Bus stop on Cullen Boulevard outside Hofheinz Pavilion. Although some candles will be provided, those attending are encouraged to bring their own if possible. Lutheran Campus Ministry also hosts a weekly Bible study at 5 p.m. Wednesdays and cohosts a worship service at 7 p.m. Wednesdays with the Canterbury Ministry at UH. news@thedailycougar.com

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4 n Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The Daily Cougar

OPINION

COMING WEDNESDAY: Homelessness and combat veterans ONLINE: Should UH postpone the UC renovations?

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 Sarah Krusleski, Features editor

STAFF EDITORIAL

Prevent contagion with effective use of face masks

BISSAN RAFE The Daily Cougar

Conflict stains Gaza in blood What’s the deal with holy wars? Not to come off sounding like Jerry Seinfeld, but really — why do religious beliefs so often incite fighting? People have been dying in God’s good name for far too long and He’s likely pretty sick and tired of it. From the Matthew perspective of a Keever native Houstonian, I cannot claim to have known much about the Gaza Strip before December 2008. Given that it’s been less than two months since the Israel-Gaza cease fire expired and the conflict again gained news coverage, I’m still a bit unsure of all the details; however, what I am sure of is that the whole situation is ridiculous. According to a report from the

New York Times, Israeli rockets hit a warehouse, which was in use by the United Nations. Needless to say, the U.N. was not pleased. Israel defended its action, claiming that Hamas militants fired mortars from near the warehouse then ran inside for shelter. The U.N. denies this. Ethan Bronner, a New York Times correspondent, spent a day with an Israeli unit in Northwest Gaza. Bronner said that houses in the area, taken when the ground-war began, were filled with rocket launchers, booby traps, and even mannequins — all set up to draw Israeli soldiers in and capture them. Tunnels were dug in the homes, where the soldiers were to be taken into after being kidnapped. On the other side of the fence, Palestine’s elected leaders entered into a truce, hoping to receive relief goods for their battered country — supplies

that never came close to their borders. They fought the blockading group and wrought some damage, but in return Israeli rockets leveled Parliament, the ministry of Justice and various cabinet buildings. The Hamas attacks killed 13 Israelis. In return, they lost more than 1,300, many of whom were civilians. There is blood staining the soil of the supposedly “holy” land, all in the name of a just and kind god. Who cares if you call Him God or Allah? Let the afterlife, assuming it exists, decide who is right and who is wrong. At that time, whichever sect is up in the clouds can point down to their ill-fated counterparts and laugh. In the meantime on earth, during life, leave each other alone. Matthew Keever is a communication junior and may be reached at opinion@thedailycougar. com.

Gaza victims pawns in unending fight The concept of compromise will remain trivial as long as Israel and Hamas are locked in the equivalent of an arms race. Israel and Palestine both want to establish a sovereign state. They both want their respective faith as a majority and Anousheh exclusive control of Kehar Jerusalem within their borders. In 2006, Palestinians elected Hamas in renewed hope of establishing a sovereign Islamic state by redefining their borders with Israel. Hamas took control of Gaza while the defeated pro-Fatah Palestinian Authority governs the West Bank. Hamas began military initiatives to drive Israeli militants out of Palestinian Gaza and then organized much needed aid for the region. Furthermore, they launched attacks on Israel. The PA saw Hamas rocket fire as counterproductive — the relatively small-scale attacks were answered by Israel’s far stronger military. This conflict is a substantial setback in the Israeli-Palestinian relations. The international community persistently set up peace talks and

formulated solutions for Israel and Palestine, of which the most significant is the “two-state nation.” None have been fully implemented due to resistance from either or both groups. Egypt negotiated a six-month ceasefire in June 2008, and characteristic of IsraeliPalestinian history of negotiations, the terms were not honored. Hamas did not renew the ceasefire, and on Dec. 27, 2008, Israel carried out a forceful military attack on Gaza which lasted for 22 days. Hamas continued to fight back. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert then withdrew Israeli troops from Gaza and declared a ceasefire. He said Hamas was “badly beaten” and Israel’s goals “have been more than fully achieved”. Throttled human rights in Gaza and a freshly elected government in Israel pave the way to a renewed compromise. Egypt played a significant role in encouraging Hamas to a long-term truce. “Most of the obstacles that prevented us from reaching an agreement were resolved,” said Taher al-Nono, a member of Hamas’s negotiating team in Cairo. Moussa Abu Marzouk, a deputy leader

of Hamas stated their proposal. “We have agreed to the truce with the Israeli side for one year and a half [in return] for the opening of all six passages between the Gaza Strip and Israel, and the halting of all military activity and aggression.” Mr. Olmert’s office responded in a statement “Israel won’t reach any arrangement on a truce before the release of Gilad Shalit.” Shalit is an Israeli soldier captured in 2006. The prime minister reaffirmed his decision with an implied warning. “Hamas must think twice if they think we will open borders before Gilad Schalit is returned home and healthy.” This prompted Egypt’s effort to negotiate releasing hostages. They faced yet another challenge when Hamas declined to incorporate the Israeli soldier’s release. Egypt remains hopeful in persuading Israel and Palestine to find some middle ground. Prime Minister Olmert also stated that Israel would not create a humanitarian

earing a mask to prevent the contraction or spread of illness isn’t just for hypochondriacs anymore. Australian researchers have found wearing a common surgical mask can prevent the flu from spreading within households, Reuters Health’s Anne Harding reported. The study, headed by the University of South Wales, was published January in Emerging Infectious Diseases, the journal of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. “Wearing a mask is cheap and simple, and should be practical for families,” USW’s Dr. Raina McIntyre told Reuters Health. “It does not require a visit to the doctor or a prescription; families can purchase masks from the pharmacy.” If wearing a mask can prevent illness in a household, it can also be assumed to prevent disease in the workforce and the classroom. Common colds and the flu can also spread quickly throughout campuses and workplaces, as many UH students, staff and faculty can attest. These sicknesses literally “go viral,” disrupting busy schedules and lives. According to the CDC’s Web site, one should consider wearing a face mask if you are sick with the flu and might have close contact with other people, if you live with someone with the flu (you therefore might be in the early stages of infection) and need to be in a crowded place, or if you are well and need to spend time in a crowded place. The CDC also suggests washing hands often, using alcohol-based hand cleansers, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing and avoiding crowded places or gatherings as much as possible. While most people are familiar with these common practices, they are rarely put into effect. UH students, faculty and staff should consider wearing masks more often. Masks are inexpensive and can help one avoid a huge disruption to the semester.

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.

Issue credits n n

see GAZA, page 10

Copy editing Wilson Chang, Shaista Mohammed Production Colby Kibbe

OPINION

Homicide photo reflection of campus reality The Daily Cougar staff is being heavily criticized for its decision to run a front-page photo of a man shot dead on our campus. However, I agree with the decision to run the photo. We are an institution of higher learning and we are all adults. We do not need our news sanitized or our sensibilities coddled. The photo was well-done. It reported the reality of a man shot dead on our campus. It was not a close up or sensationalized, with which I would have had a problem. Although many of your readers seem to feel it shows a lack of respect, I believe the opposite. By showing the body we acknowledge that a man lived and died in our midst, a member of our community. As John Donne wrote, “No man is an island, entire of itself ... any man’s death diminishes me, because I am

involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.” The photo illustrated these powerful words. Beverly A. McPhail, Women’s Resource Center director Students should decide campus dining options I took the opportunity to peruse the Campus Dining Fair in the Moody Towers (on Feb. 4), where a new $10 million budget plan to renovate the existing RFoC facilities was showcased. It’s a very interesting concept ... but how do we afford something like this? Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Carl Carlucci’s stance is to decide if we need it and then figure out payment, but I worry this will be decided in back rooms by administrators without any semblance of true student voice. With a $10 million project on the way, Aramark is going to want a contract extension to ensure they pay off the debt, just as they did with (Chili’s Too). I would

very much like to see students help weigh 10 more years of Aramark against a new dining hall. The University is a top-of-theline institution, and we deserve the best, but we must ensure that administrators remember that students are the reason they exist. Any time an institution sees its constituents less as superiors and more as subordinates, problems are imminent. Tara Roach, photography junior Media contributes to American apathy Too many times in this country the corporate media shields citizens from the ugly results of violence. I believe one of the reasons why we see so little resistance to war in our country is that the public never gets to see the results of the bombs being launched from our planes. Perhaps if the public saw the burned flesh and dead bodies caused by violence there would be less cultural tolerance for war and violence.

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Tuesday, February 17, 2009 n 5

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6 n Tuesday, February 17, 2009

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SPORTS

COMING WEDNESDAY: Preview the Cougar baseball team’s coming season. ONLINE: Mario Trinidad reflects on the men’s basketball team’s victory over Tulane.

EDITOR Matt Miller E-MAIL sports@thedailycougar.com ONLINE www.thedailycougar.com/sports

PLAYER PROFILE

RESERVATIONS FOR SIX

Musick hopes to improve

NY signs top free agents

By Ronnie Turner The Daily Cougar

Spring Training has begun and teams are ready to showcase their hot free agent signings and trade acquisitions that will hopefully give them a shot at winning a World Series. A busy free agency period this offseason benefited Keith several teams Cordero Jr. looking to turn the corner and make the playoffs. The Tampa Bay Rays headlined the 2008 season by going from last place to first place in the American League East. Here are the three teams that improved the most this offseason:

his disappointing performance in the second half of 2008, this motive is understandable.

Drafted or not, Wes Musick had long decided he was going to return to UH for his junior season. Last year’s Major League Baseball Draft had fans wondering if he would really return. Musick had just finished the best season of his collegiate career, and it was a foregone conclusion that a team would select him. The San Francisco Giants picked the southpaw in the 24th round, but the Aug. 15 signing deadline passed without Musick inking a professional contract, ending all speculation that he might bolt early. Musick maintains he had no intention of leaving. “It wasn’t a hard decision,” Musick said. “Once the draft was going on, I knew that no matter where I was drafted, I was going to come back to school. It was a winwin situation for me.” After going 8-4 with a 4.35 ERA and team-high 87 strikeouts last season, Musick returns as Friday’s starter when the Cougars open their season against Kansas State. He was also named to the All-Conference USA second team in 2008. Musick said he returned primarily because he needed to improve on his skills. Considering

Collapse leaves sour taste Last season, Musick was 7-1 with a 2.85 ERA after nine appearances (eight starts), but over his final nine appearances (seven starts), including the postseason, he was only 1-3 with a 6.26 ERA. Fortunately for the Cougars, Musick’s slide did not prevent the Cougars from reaching an NCAA regional, but the pressure of having to win big games down the stretch might have played a role in his second-half struggles. “I think sometimes I tried to do a little too much more than I was capable of doing,” Musick said. Head coach Rayner Noble offered a different perspective. “He just kind of lost his confidence about two-thirds of the way through the season last year,” he said. “You show me a guy with a lack of confidence, and I’ll show you a guy who is probably going to be very inconsistent and not pitching very well.” Whatever the case, Musick hopes to put those struggles behind him and again be the proverbial rock for a staff that has relied mostly on his contributions for the past two seasons.

Daily COUGAR FILE PHOTO

Junior left-hander Wes Musick, pictured above against Pacific in 2008, was selected to the 2009 preseason All-Conference USA team. Money-making skills Musick is undersized at 6-0, 190 pounds, but makes up for his lack of size with a quality fastball, curveball and changeup. He relies mostly on control to keep batters off balance. During fall camp, Musick added a slider/cut fastball to his pitching arsenal. He hopes to use this pitch in the spring, but Noble doesn’t seem too optimistic about this. “He hasn’t really thrown that (pitch) all that much,” Noble said. “I think he’s just kind of staying with the same stuff that has really gotten him here.” The last two seasons have been

FIGHTINGWORDS

less stressful for Musick, who missed the entire 2006 campaign with a medical redshirt after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his left elbow and right-knee surgery. He went 6-5 with a 3.00 ERA in 2007 and improved slightly in 2008. The Cougars hope Musick’s struggles from last year won’t carry over into this season. “He’s a new guy, it’s a new season, and we all know what he’s capable of doing,” Noble said. “Hopefully, he can be the guy who starts the weekend off on a good note for us.” sports@thedailycougar.com

1. New York Yankees: The Yankees had another eventful offseason, signing the three most talented free agents. A weak economy was not an issue for the Yankees, as first basemen Mark Teixiera and pitchers C.C. Sabathia and A. J. Burnett cashed in by signing with the team with the highest payroll in Major League Baseball. Sabathia went 17-10 last season and was dominant down the stretch, leading the Milwaukee Brewers to the postseason. The former CyYoung see RESERVATIONS, page 7

At issue: Will the UH baseball team make the NCAA regional for the second consecutive year?

» Solid pitching gives Cougars a chance to make regional

» As Musick goes, so do the Cougars

Arms are Cougars’ key to backto-back regional trips

Ronnie wins; Knicks will make the playoffs

The 2009 UH baseball team has an excellent chance of returning to the NCAA Regional, but will have to get the most out of their pitching to do so. The old adage states “championships in baseball are built upon pitching and defense,” and it’s the Cougars’ strong pitching staff that Phillipe gives them hope comCraig ing into this season. Junior left-hander Wes Musick returns despite being drafted, providing stability and experience from last season’s tournament run along with sophomore closer Chase Dempsay. Dempsay’s emergence on the scene as a reliable rally-killer allows head coach Rayner Noble to concentrate on the rest of his staff. The remaining pieces are dependant on injury and consistency. If guys such as Barry Laird and Taylor Hammack can stay healthy and incoming players such as Michael Goodnight can perform at a high level, then opposing offenses will have more to worry about than Musick and Dempsay. But as another adage goes, “That’s why they play the games.”

The Cougar baseball team will have a tough time making it back to the NCAA regional. Phillipe’s cheap quotes won’t help his chances with Judge Dredd, but I feel the Cougars success rests on the shoulders of preseason All-C-USA First Team pitcher Wes Keith Musick. Cordero Jr. Sophomore Chase Dempsay, who posted an 8-3 mark last season, joins Musick on the preseason first team. Musick and Dempsay need better seasons than they had in 2008 as the Cougars will have to battle national powerhouse and cross-town rival Rice for the conference crown. Freshman pitcher Michael Goodnight is my dark horse to help the Cougars make it to the College World Series. He can throw in the low-90s, play first base and crush the baseball. Junior outfielder Zak Presley also needs a big season. Presley can hit and get on base, as shown by his 18-game hitting streak in 2008. If the team pitches well enough to fuel its bats, the Cougars should be a presence in C-USA.

Good Lord, that was painful to read. Between Phillipe’s clichés and Keith’s bad grammar and inaccuracies, I can’t tell which argument was worse. How quickly they forgot last season’s team made it to the postseason despite having only two top-notch pitchers Ronnie (Wes Musick and Turner Chase Dempsay), a lot of freshmen and sophomore pitchers and three more pitchers on the shelf. This year’s team has Musick and Dempsay returning and more talented arms were added through recruiting. Plus, the freshmen and sophomores from last season’s team have grown up a bit. The Cougars lost four big bats, but others will surely emerge, just as they did last year when least expected. Plus, this year’s team has way more depth than before. Conference USA will be tough as usual, but the Cougars will be able to match up with the likes of Rice, East Carolina, Tulane and Southern Miss. The Cougars likely won’t knock Rice off its throne, but they should be good for another trip to an NCAA regional.

Considering Ronnie has been the baseball beat writer for as long as Judge Dredd has been the basketball beat writer — four years — it was expected he would mop the floor with the competition. Therefore, Judge Dredd won’t drag this thing out any longer than it needs to be. Ronnie wins. Now to what Judge Judge Dredd considers a more Dredd important issue — the playoff chances of his struggling New York Knicks. Judge Dredd is calling it right now. The Knicks will make the playoffs this season as the No. 8 seed and compete with the Celtics for seven games before being ousted in the first round. Some may question Judge Dredd’s sanity, but those people are sissies. Never question Judge Dredd. David Lee should have been an All-Star, and the Knicks are only 3.5 games out of first place, despite a six-game losing streak during their toughest stretch of games in the season.

FAC E T I M E

Looks as if Keith is back to being a loser.

Verdict: Ronnie wins, and beware of green Nate Robinson jerseys. 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

2. New York Mets: You don’t have to go far to find out the Mets had the second best offseason in MLB. The Mets signed closer Francisco Rodriguez, formerly of the Los Angeles Angels. They also acquired former Mariners closer J.J. Putz via trade to replace Billy Wagner, who will miss the entire 2009 season to recover from Tommy John surgery. Two closers are better than one, and addressing the bullpen was the Mets No. 1 concern this offseason. Their high-powered lineup needs someone to seal the deal in the ninth inning. Late inning one-run leads should be safe with K-Rod closing games and Putz protecting leads in the eighth inning. Rodriguez saved an MLB record 62 games last season. Putz saved 76 games in 2006 and

3. Washington Nationals: At the end of last season, I did not think this team would make the list, but the Washington Nationals made some surprising moves this offseason to sneak into my top three. The 2008 National League bottom feeders recently signed slugger Adam Dunn, who hit 40 home runs and drove in 106 runs last season. Dunn will play first base and right field for a team that is desperately trying to garner some excitement in the nation’s capital. A flurry of acquisitions included outfielders Corey Patterson and Josh Willingham, infielder Alex Cintron and Triple-A call up Alberto Gonzales. The pitching rotation did lose innings-eater Tim Redding, but gained left-hander Scott Olsen, who started 33 games for the Florida Marlins last season. Despite winning only eight games and giving up 30 home runs, Olsen threw 133 strikeouts in 176 innings. sports@thedailycougar.com

February 23-26, 2009

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award winner had 10 complete games and 251 strikeouts last season. Teixiera, a switch-hitting machine, should fit in the lineup nicely behind third basemen Alex Rodriguez.

continued from page 6

2007 combined. The Mets also acquired utility player Alex Cora and pitcher Tim Redding and re-signed starting pitcher Oliver Perez.

RED

RESERVATIONS

Tuesday, February 17, 2009 n 7

8 n Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The Daily Cougar

LIFE+ARTS EDITOR

COMING THURSDAY: Take a break from Edward’s and check out alternative cinemas. ONLINE POLL: Fess up. How often do you attend cultural events at the UH?

Sarah Tucker E-MAIL arts@thedailycougar.com ONLINE www.thedailycougar.com/life_arts

Step into world of ‘Coraline’ Eccentric characters and stop-motion landscapes will entertain all age groups By Shaista Mohammed THE DAILY COUGAR Phantasmagoria has a place in childhood, and that place is in Coraline, the newest offering from director Henry Selick. Childhood movies tend to be rife with trite characterization and cheap one-liners. Films that charm beyond one viewing must transcend these easy thrills and dare to include more depth. Coraline Jones is the only child of two writers, fresh off a long-distance move and alone in a decidedly sinister old house. The neighbors don’t do much to reassure. Downstairs is a competitive pair of sisters, former stage performers who stuff their dead Scotties, complete with knit cloaks and golden wings. Upstairs is Mr. Bobinsky, the eccentric proprietor of a circus of jumping mice. Add in Wybie, the stalking neighbor, and the most inscrutable cat since Carroll’s disappearing

Cheshire, and Coraline engages with the unexpected humanity of its characters from its opening scene. The decision to use stop motion is a risky one, but combined with effectively-used special effects, Coraline charms. Coraline’s childhood is lonely, between the move and her parents’ preoccupation. Enter the magical land, to which only she can escape and is tailored to her desires. “When she sees this other world, it’s just perfect,” Dakota Fanning, who voiced Coraline, said in a Focus Features press release. However, Coraline soon realizes the other world is not all it seems to be. Like Labyrinth and Beetlejuice, the gimcrackery of special effects must be kept relevant and used to provoke more than atavism. Henry Selick, the director of James and the Giant Peach and The Nightmare Before Christmas, is synonymous with modern stop-

PHoto Courtesy of Focus features

Coraline feels frustrated by her parents, but she learns her Other Mother is more sinister than meets the eye. Henry Selick’s whimsical art direction coupled with performances from a cast of that includes Dakota Fanning bring Coraline to life. motion work. Using both stop motion and 3-D was risky, but necessary — not to thrill, but to incorporate the viewer into the fantasy. “The one thing about stop motion is that it’s real stuff, it’s tangible,” Selick said in a Focus Features press release. “It reaches into the reptile center of the brain, and you’ll know it’s real —

sound check

New faces in rock, hip-hop Plastic Romance A band with “romance” in the title that is actually good — who would have thought it? This Austin-based four piece plays straight power pop that is a refreshing change from all the other bands in Austin trying to be the next indiehype flavor-of the-month. Plastic Romance has that Mike Damante snotty-1970s snarl learned from the members playing in previous Houston punk bands Arm in Arm and The Ballistics. Don’t be mistaken — Plastic Romance leans more towards Johnny Thunders than Johnny Rotten with mid-tempo songs featuring strong, sugary choruses. With just a handful of shows under its leather jackets, Plastic Romance has secured a few daytime shows at the coming South by Southwest music festival in Austin. Plastic Romance will be playing one of the dates with fellow power pop rock’n’roll revivalists, The Cute Lepers. You can hear the demos for “ This Time” and “Whatcha Wanna Do?” at www.myspace.com/ plasticromanceband. Broadway Calls Broadway Calls is a long way from the bright lights of the city, being from Rainer, Ore., but has big aspirations to see its name on top of the marquee. The band is fresh off signing with popular indie label SideOneDummy Records and a European tour opening for Alkaline Trio. The band resembles an early version of Green Day or The Ataris, with wide-eyed enthusiasm and post-teenage tales that serve as an ideal backdrop to traveling the country in a van with your best friends. The three members who make up Broadway Calls can easily be your friend’s local band.

Charles Hamilton Charles Hamilton has probably released more songs than some of your favorite hip-hop artists. The strangest thing is he’s yet to release a proper studio album. He’s managed to have quite the mouth though, getting himself into odd beefs with Soulja Boy and Rhymefest. Hamilton has released Roshan Bhatt more than 11 mix tapes, many of which have taken on their own concepts. For example, The L Word is Hamilton’s take on women. Through releasing ample amounts of free music, Hamilton was named one of Spin Magazines “Big in 09” and XXL’s top 10 freshman. Not too shabby for a 21-year-old. Make sure to head over to www.iamnotcharleshamilton.com to grab all of his mix tapes for free. Nero By no means is this another Soulja Boy, Lil Bow Wow or Lil Romeo. Nero is an incredibly soulful 17-year-old phenomenon who will be turning the hip-hop world upside down in no time. He released his mixtape, Alive and Vibrant, in early January to favorable reviews. If you were ever a fan of hip-hop in the mid-’90s era, particularly the It Was Written-era Nas and A Tribe Called Quest, then Nero should definitely have some megabytes reserved on your iPod. The beats scream ’90s, and lyrically, he’s reminiscent of Mos Def and Q-Tip. On one hand, hip-hop could use a smart, young kid with the potential to make lifechanging albums, but on the other, he is arguably a bit late and out of place. It seems there’s little to no room in the mainstream for conscious rappers, but that’s just the way it goes. Whatever it is, don’t sleep on him. Be sure to download his mixtape, Alive and Vibrant, at www.illroots.com. arts@thedailycougar.com

3-D enhances that.” Coraline is technically brilliant. However, the real grace of the movie is that the effects take a subtle backseat to the simple human art of storytelling. Coraline is sure to delight and enthrall both fans of the book and those new to the story.

IN REVIEW Coraline Rated: PG Starring: Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Verdict: Revive the magic of childhood in the whimsical and sinister world of Henry Selick.

arts@thedailycougar.com

‘Body Worlds’ stay extended By Wilson Chang The Daily Cougar Since its first exhibition at Tokyo in 1995, the Body Worlds exhibit has toured museums across the globe with its unique display of preserved human bodies. The exhibit has since expanded into several separate shows, with the most recent opening, Body Worlds & The Mirror of Time, opening in London Oct. 28, 2008. Houston has been host to Body Worlds 2 & The Brain: Our Three Pound Gem at the Houston Museum of Natural Science since Sept. 12, 2008. HMNS previously hosted the inaugural exhibit for Body Worlds 3 & The Story of the Heart in February 2006. “I thought it was incredible,” English junior Joelle LasutSchweighauser said. “They were able to show bodies doing everyday things. It mixed art with science, with just a bit of morbidity.” Body Worlds is the culmination of the efforts of German anatomist Gunther von Hagens, who in 1977 invented plastination, the technique used to preserve the human body for the exhibits. “I invented plastination when I was 32 — half a life ago — so I could teach people about the human body and show them its full potential,” von Hagens said in a 2008 press release. “It seemed a natural progression to use my science to present, in Body

Worlds, the secrets of vitality, longevity, and well-being.” The plastination process involves several steps. First, the body must be embalmed in formaldehyde and then soaked in acetone, which replaces any residual water in the body. The body is then set in a bath of liquid polymer where a vacuum draws out the acetone, allowing the polymer to take its place. After curing the bodies, now referred to as plastinates, they are ready to be modeled and displayed. Many different forms of plastinates are on display at Body Worlds 2, ranging from individual organs to full bodies set into distinct poses. “I really want to see it for myself,” psychology and sociology major Danica Dirba said. Dirba missed the first exhibit in 2006 and plans to go to this one before it’s over. “It’d be really interesting just to look, because I don’t know much about anatomy,” she said. This will be the last week Body Worlds 2 will be in Houston. To encourage more viewers for the exhibit, HMNS is going to remain open this entire weekend, opening 9 a.m. Friday and closing 9 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $25 for adults and $21 for college students with a valid school ID. For more information about HMNS exhibits and times, visit www.hmns.com. arts@thedailycougar.com

LIFE & ARTS

The Daily Cougar

Catchy instrumentals accompany sweet voice By Sarah Krusleski THE DAILY COUGAR Australian singer Lenka will grace Houston’s House of Blues on Thursday with her saccharine voice and eclectic, indy-influenced bell and horn instrumentals. Lenka’s melodies and lyrics are as addictive and sweet as lemon drops, with lines like “I’m just a little bit caught in the middle/ Life is a maze and love is a riddle.” The eclectic feast of chimes, pianos and drums peppering the backdrop of Lenka’s songs will satisfy listeners’ ears. When Lenka’s lyrics fail to deliver, it’s easy to rejoice with the jubilant parade of horns and melodies accompanying her gossamer voice. The stale line “I won’t let him win, but I’m a sucker for his charm” becomes triumphant with a backdrop of gloating horns and rock-inspired guitar. Fans of the ephemeral voices and light-hearted tribulations of songstresses Regina Spektor and Imogen Heap should find new favorites in Lenka’s portfolio,

although Lenka doesn’t delve into more poignant, realistic problems as do her counterparts. Unfortunately, Lenka’s focus on featherweight love tribulations and sprightly victories should be considered cruel and unusual punishment for anyone with rougher tastes. She doesn’t push the boundaries of language and is content to rely on clichéd imagery, resulting in banal lyrics such as “Underneath the moon, underneath the stars, here’s a little heart for you.” However, Lenka’s scintillant voice and the eclectic backdrop of chimes, horns and guitar make it easy for listeners to overlook her vacuous lyrics. Think of Lenka as a sweet romantic comedy — leave your sense of emotional maturity at the door and smile at the gentle tumbles and sweet little victories. Tickets run for $17 to $25. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. arts@thedailycougar.com

Tuesday, February 17, 2009 n 9

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OPINION

10 n Tuesday, February 17, 2009

GAZA continued from page 4

crisis in Gaza, and would allow necessary supplies, as it has since 2007. The three-week attack on Gaza and the subsequent humanitarian aid blockade proved otherwise.

The Daily Cougar

The plight of the Palestinians has deteriorated substantially. Threefourths of the Gaza’s population survives on U.N. aid. Israel loosened control on the blockade to allow U.N. workers to enter Gaza and provide vital necessities. However, Israeli militants targeted a U.N. building where Palestinians took shelter

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rentals 1-BDRM APT for rent at 3925 Woodleigh, $550/month. All Bills paid. Call-713224-7211. HOUSTON HEIGHTS. 30 minutes from the UH campus. 1 bedroom and 1 bath - $750; 2 bedroom and 1 bath - $950. CALL 713-682-7142. STUDENT/STAFF SPECIAL: U of H AREA-$99. 1st mo rent. Minutes from campus. 1bdrm $429. & 2bdrm $529. with a 1 YEAR LEASE. 3629 MacGregor Way-Office 713-523-0225 1 BED/BATH APT in Medical Center. $650 Holly Hall & Almeda. 800 sqt. Brand new appliances. 24hr gated. Swimming pool. Bus line. Contact: yeoha@hbu.edu or (832) 818-8973. PRIVATE STUDIO ROOM in house one block south of campus. In quiet neighborhood. Furnished. $350 a month plus deposit. Shared utilities. 713-208-2530 ADVERTISE with us! (713) 743-5356

Here’s how:

HOUSTONIAN YEARBOOK PHOTO WEEK • 9 a.m.–7 p.m. February 16–19 • 9 a.m.–3 p.m. February 20 Claudette Room, UC Satellite Shoots available by appointment. Walk-ins welcome. No sitting fees!

Visit uh.edu/sp/houstonian or call (713) 743-5350 for registration info.

COMICS & MORE

The Daily Cougar

COUGAR COMICS

Online at thedailycougar.com/comics

The Waves by Bissan Rafe

today’s crossword ACROSS 1 Wild country 5 Refrain syllables 8 Ward off 12 Top story 14 Wide valley 15 Film director — Kazan 16 17-syllable poem 17 Trick 18 Puny pup 19 Made cole slaw 21 “Crocodile —” 23 Silence 24 Marino and Favre 25 Hairpin curve 26 Emulated Gallup 30 Silver or Scout 32 Be of benefit 33 Losing traction 36 Toasty 37 Blokes 38 Splice 40 Chemists’ wear (2 wds.) 42 Small drum 43 Pound fraction 44 In a row 45 Gross! 48 NYC airport 49 Wire gauge 50 Genghis Khan was one 52 Rent from a renter 57 District 58 Currier and — 60 Do well 61 Clock part 62 Manage okay 63 Blowgun weapons 64 Swirling water 65 Blasting material 66 Tableland

Dim Sum by Ho Yi Lau

Man Law by Chris Jacobs

At the Hot Dog Stand by Mishele Lamshing

Tuesday, February 17, 2009 n 11

DOWN 1 Derisive snorts 2 Jazz’s home 3 Mingle 4 Follow a trail 5 Speak highly of 6 Hirt and Gore 7 Garden plots 8 Terrarium plant 9 Slip past

Answers online at thedailycougar.com/puzzles 3

5 13

16 19

37 41

44 49

4 2 Charged for 44 Ad — (wing it) 45 Sketch 46 Like baked apples 47 Handle dough 49 Reflect 51 Cooper of “High Noon” 52 Fall mo. 53 Test 54 Farm unit 55 Movie-lot locales 56 Adamson’s pet 59 Wernher — Braun

60 63 66 ©

today’s sudoku (Difficulty: 2/5)

1 0 Playing cards 11 Goes steady 13 Heavy stick 14 Remnant 20 Homer, to Bart 22 Pre-owned 24 Ear cleaners (hyph.) 26 Rabbit’s foot 27 Ellipse 28 Superman’s mom 29 In-between state 30 Go rollerblading 31 Spicy mustard 33 Hut 34 Opposite of some 35 Billion, in combos 37 Disagreement 39 Hide — hair 41 Stephen King novel

43 46

23 26

2009 United Feature Syndicate INC.

Previous puzzle solved E R A S

L O F T

O L L A

T A F T

E T R E

N E E R

A M U S E

P I P E R

O L D E R

P E E R

E I C X N U A D I C H E S T A X I DON N E OD E E B I E S E S A A N I L L L O L I E U G O G A O N A R N S T I E

E D K E E T E S A T S A D N E C O A I F L E D

T R I A E R MA K S P I E H A R D O V A L E E L I N EM I I C A D N T S HO A L AM CO K E T E E N

G O O D S S E R A P O S Y

Answers online 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

Student Publications Committee The SPC will hold its February meeting at

4 p.m. WEDNESDAY February 18, 2009 in the Allison Room (Room 13), University Center Satellite The meeting is open to the public. If you require disability accommodations, please call (713) 743-5353 to make arrangements.

ADVERTISING

12 n Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The Daily Cougar

Learn more about El Paso Corporation. Register at elpaso.com/EPElite to receive company information and a FREE gift. EP Elite is our intern program designed to give you real engineering or business experience with El Paso Corporation–owner of the largest interstate natural gas pipeline in the United States and one of the top10 independent, domestic exploration and production companies. EP Elite provides you with experience and the chance to develop skills by working directly with industry leaders on real-world assignments. We offer great opportunities to expand your horizons doing meaningful work with a meaningful company.

the place to work the neighbor to have the company to own

El Paso Corporation Houston (headquarters) • Birmingham • Denver • Colorado Springs • Corpus Christi El Paso Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, M/F/D/V