Issue 5, Volume 87

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 | 1

@thedailycougar www.thedailycougar.com Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Est. 1934

Issue 5, Volume 87

Stormy Days in SGA Unprecedented recall election could remove embattled president from office.| PG. 2

SPORTS UH football’s D-line has annointed itself as one of the league’s best. | PG. 5

OPINION SGA should streamline its recall process. | PG. 14

Housing Edition | PG. 9-13

2 | Wednesday, October 20, 2021

NEWS

HAYA PANJWANI EDITORS & AMINAH TANNIR,

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/NEWS

@THEDAILYCOUGAR

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

As recall nears, a look back at how the Student Government got here

EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR IN CHIEF

Donna Keeya

MANAGING EDITOR

Sydney Rose

ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

Ashley Gwananji ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

WEB EDITOR

Sean Thomas Armando Yanez

NEWS EDITORS

ASSISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jhair Romero Aminah Tannir Haya Panjwani

Gerald Sastra

SPORTS EDITOR

James Mueller OPINION EDITOR

Anna Baker

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Juana Garcia

STAFF EDITORIAL The Staff Editorial reflects the opinions of The 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 Cougar do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Houston or the students as a whole.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Juana Garcia/The Cougar

HAYA PANJWANI

NEWS EDITOR

@HAYAPANJW

For the first time in the University’s history, SGA President Arsalan Darbin is facing a recall election in late October.

While Darbin’s recall may come as a shock to some of the student body, others are not surprised. From the start of his campaign, to the most recent Senate meeting voting on his recall, Darbin’s SGA career has continuously been unprecedented.

2021 Election During the 2021 Student Government Elections, two student-run parties, the Student Action Party and #RiseUp, ran against one another for seats in the current administration. Darbin ran as a part of the Student Action Party.

In March, both parties had actions of their past brought to light during their campaigning period. Consequently, the Student Action Party dropped the candidate that had a complaint filed against them, while #RiseUp did not.

About three days after these actions became known, the #RiseUp party as a whole was disqualified on the basis of illegal campaigning methods – which is in violation of SGA’s election code.

Another complaint cited against #RiseUp was the use of threatening language towards the Student Action Party on social media.

This meant that by default, Arsalan Darbin became President of SGA’s 58th administration, along with every other candidate in the Student Action Party who ran for a seat, and avoided any formal election by the student body.

Allegations Roughly three months into the fall semester, some senators of the current SGA administration began expressing concerns with Darbin’s leadership. In response, business senator, Abraham Sanchez, authored the “Resolution to Recall” over the first weekend in October, along with nine other senators.

The resolution based the recall on allegations like unprofessional conduct, failure to perform his duties and responsibilities and creating a hostile work environment since the start of his administration.

In response, Darbin told The Cougar he was “disheartened” by the senators’ decision.

“Regardless of its motivations, this recall does exactly what it accuses me of doing: damaging the reputation of the SGA and threatening the credibility of this institution,” Darbin said. “I’m hopeful that this conflict will be a learning moment for the organization and the student body to emerge stronger.”

Recall On Oct. 6, the SGA met for their biweekly Senate meeting. While their agenda included legislation on student activities funding and a formal opposition to Texas’ abortion bill, the primary focus for the meeting was the recall.

Both Darbin and Sanchez had the opportunity to make their case.

Sanchez began his argument by handing out a list of grievances against Darbin to all those in attendance at the meeting.

The senator detailed the basis behind each grievance and added in his speech his attempts to bring the administration’s

problems to employees of the University.

One grievance Sanchez spoke in regards to was claiming the President lost $7,000 from the last administration.

“He failed to meet the deadline to spend that money,” Sanchez said. “This is his job, and he missed that deadline.”

Darbin spoke to his background at the school, drawing on his personal, professional and University related experiences and how they led him to eventually become the SGA president.

“I’ve done everything I could to advocate for students and the student body, because of my personal experiences,” Darbin said in his speech. “I would say accusations of an unhealthy and toxic environment are absolutely false.”

After hearing from both Sanchez and Darbin, as well as senators and students who had the opportunity to speak up in favor or against the recall, the Senate voted via an anonymous ballot in favor of a recall election.

Moving forward As a result of the vote, the SGA Justice Department outlined a recall election code the same night that the recall election was announced.

This code calls for 10 to 15 days after the vote for an election to occur, hence the election date being set in late October.

The code also disallows campaigning in favor or against the recall election.

As for the student body, who are the voters in the recall election, they can make a decision on Darbin’s fate in the student government on Oct. 26 through Oct. 27. news@thedailycougar.com

The 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 N221, University Center; e-mail them to letters@thedailycougar.com; send them via campus mail to STP 4015; or fax to (713) 743-5384. Letters are subject to editing.

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 limited to 500 words. Guest commentaries should not be written as replies, but rather should present independent points of view. Deliver submissions to N221, University Center; e-mail them to letters@ thedailycougar.com; or fax them to (713) 743-5384. All submissions are subject to editing.

ADVERTISEMENTS Advertisements in The Cougar do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the University or the students as a whole.

The Cougar is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press.

studentpress.org/acp

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 | 3 HAYA PANJWANI EDITORS & AMINAH TANNIR,

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/NEWS

NEWS

@THEDAILYCOUGAR

HOMECOMING

Court revealed at kickoff HAYA PANJWANI AMINAH TANNIR

NEWS EDITORS @HAYAPANJW @AMOUNAJT

Homecoming Week 2021 started on Monday with the announcement of the Homecoming Court at the Kickoff Pep Rally.

Those who are on the court are now up for the title of Homecoming King and Queen, which will be announced at the football game on Saturday.

Back to normal The Residence Halls Association Kickoff Pep Rally hosted a myriad of booths filled with activities set up by various student organizations and was open to all students.

Students were able to hear from the Spirit of Houston as well as meet and take pictures with the school mascots, Sasha and Shasta.

Free food, T-shirts and live music all contributed to the electric atmosphere of the night.

“It’s a really nice event,” said psychology freshman Anthony Bermudez. “It’s nice to be socializing, meeting new people and seeing old friends.”

Communications freshman Steven Troy Viera echoed similar sentiments and said the event was exciting and different, especially being a first-year student.

“It’s welcoming,” Viera said. “It shows school spirit.”

Homecoming Court 2021 Abel Williams, a graduate student in the pharmacy school, wanted to give his nomination credit back to the school.

“I just really wanted to represent so much of the University and all the people that have helped me,” Williams said. “Winning would mean that all my hard work has paid off the growth that I’ve done what high school would want me to do.”

Kinesiology senior Kenneth Davis III ran because he wanted to represent people who look like him.

“I wanted to leave a legacy of representing the student body and advocating for those needs and also amplifying underrepresented narrative,” Davis said. “Representation for the years to come, and knowing that anybody else that looks like me can be on Homecoming Court.”

Lyrik Walker, a broadcast journalism senior and member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority chapter said running for court was important for her to continue the UH tradition.

This inspiration was partly due to Alpha Kappa Alpha member Lynn Eusan becoming the first Black UH Homecoming queen, according to Walker.

“This is the first major goal and the next would obviously be to win,” Walker said.

Jayce Ball, a computer information

Courtesy of UH Homecoming Board

systems senior and member of the Zeta Phi Beta sorority said running for Court was all about making a difference. Ball mentioned how she wanted the Homecoming Queen to look different, and she wanted to be the one to do the job.

“I want to make a difference at UH, bring the spirit of Houston back,” said Ball.

“I’m really excited [to be nominated] and congratulations to everyone else that made it and everyone else that participated.”

Political science senior Jeremiah Sowell ran because he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his brother who ran for Homecoming Court before him.

“It’s something I’m looking forward to,” Sowell said. “I’m very confident about it, and it’ll be a big accomplishment for my undergraduate career.”

Jordan Booker, technology leadership and innovation management senior, ran because he initially felt lost on campus during his freshman year. Soon, he started meditating and having others join him, helping build his confidence.

Booker said he had a great track season, which really helped to motivate him.

“I feel like this will be great for the experience, letting people know that I came from being unconfident and not knowing what I want to do to eventually running for Homecoming King,” Booker said. “University of Houston has helped me a lot in gaining my confidence. I want to give back.”

Supply chain management and marketing senior Minnae Bellard is an Alpha Kappa Psi member and wanted to run to share her experiences of what it means to be a student at UH personally and professionally.

“I just wanted to share how UH has created me as the great person I am today,” Bellard said. “I feel happy to be able to continue to share my story and continue to motivate others to find their purpose here at UH and find themselves.”

Ogechi Ngwakwe, a biochemistry senior and Metropolitan Volunteer Program assistant director of membership said after a long week of campaigning, being nominated by the students was a satisfying feeling.

“I felt like it would just be a beautiful way to end off my time at UH to just run for Homecoming Court knowing that it represents a major tradition at UH and that I’d be able to hold the position and title in a

very graceful manner,” Ngwakwe said.

Marketing senior Ricardo Lara didn’t expect to run for Homecoming Court since it was out of his comfort zone, but one of his friends convinced him to run.

“I wanted to be a good representation for other students who may have been in a similar situation as I was,” Lara said. “Where they didn’t necessarily feel like they found their place on campus, whether that be through friends, organizations or what they wanted to do with their career path. And (I) really just let people know like, it gets better,

and you’ll eventually find your place here.”

Victoria White, political science senior and UH Student Government Association executive assistant wanted to represent the University that welcomed her as an international student.

“I really wanted to represent the University that’s given so much to me and provided so many opportunities to me,” said White. “It was a tough competition this year and I’m just glad that I’ve gotten this far.” news@thedailycougar.com

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SP ECI AL ELEC TI ON I n acco r d an ce to the El ect i o n Recall Co de, parties were grante d the o ppo r t un i ty t o pr o v i d e a written statem ent to info rm students o f the ir r e s pect i ve po si ti o n s. Pl ease visit www. uh. edu/sga/justice o r email s gad o j @ ce n t ral . uh. ed u fo r m o re info rm atio n.

Statement in favor of the Recall - Written by Senator Abraham Sanchez: The Student Government Association Cabinet and two-thirds of the Senate urge the Student Body to vote to remove Arsalan Darbin from the office of the President. President Darbin has inhibited SGA from actively engaging with the Student Body and from carrying out initiatives proposed by students, Senators, and Cabinet members. The President has not fulfilled his duties in a timely and professional manner in addition to fostering a hostile work environment rather than a workplace where there is collaboration, organization, and communication. These concerns have been brought to the President several times by the Speaker of the Senate, Vice President, and Chief of Staff to no avail, and President Darbin has refused to take any action to address these issues or offered any forms of apologies. Furthermore, President Darbin has made it extremely difficult for elected and appointed officials to fulfill their duties and responsibilities as illustrated during the Student Government Association’s Senate meeting on Wednesday, October 6th. During this meeting, a unanimous Cabinet along with a two-third majority Senate spent 3 hours testifying to their experiences and knowledge of transphobia, sexism, threats of physical violence, and malfeasance under the presidency of Arsalan Darbin. Specifically, our list of grievances include but are not limited to: the use of transphobic and misogynist comments lobbied at members of his own cabinet; constantly overexerting his executive authority to threaten dismissal of appointed cabinet members to abide by his will; threatening physical harm against a member of his own cabinet - with such accounts have been witnessed by multiple members of Student Government.

Arsalan is no longer working to fulfill the promises he campaigned on and was elected to fulfill. Furthermore, he is prohibiting his Cabinet and the Student Government organization as whole from acting efficiently and professionally. It is for these reasons that we urge the Student Body to remove the President from office so that we may have a successful 58th administration.

Statement Against the Recall - Written by President Arsalan Darbin: This recall election was initiated without any evidence other than hearsay, no complaints filed to the Supreme Court for investigation, and consumes valuable time and resources funded through student fees. Nevertheless, I’m glad to inform the student body on the following matter.

While I was accused of “abusing [my] powers,” my experience in the past 7 months was otherwise. I constantly found myself powerless when cabinet members rented golf carts and didn't return them for several days, clocked in for 40 hours while they are allowed to work for only 15 hrs/week, use the belongings of the office operator (who works at UH for 20+ years) without her permission, misuse the SGA funds to purchase air couches for their office, and write offending passive-aggressive notes for others (documents available). Can the President take appropriate disciplinary action to ensure accountability?

The testimonies heard during the recall were shocking and ironic. A member who has previously suggested administrators to “slip in additional charges to student fees,” accused me of a lack of transparency in spending. Another, who has a history of making jokes about my accent and Middle Eastern origin, claimed to be discriminated against. And another, who usually finds it difficult to control his temper, accused me of threatening him with physical harm. I unequivocally deny those accusations, believe they are ad hominem attacks taken out of context, and are a projection of their own actions rather than mine.

Although I can't be sure about the motivations of those speaking against me, I cannot ignore the importance of vested interests. It's not that I have failed to perform my duties, but that I have not conformed with budgetary demands and the political agendas of certain individuals, intended for personal gains. If I have not violated any rules of the SGA Constitution and Bylaws, and there is absolutely no proof of the accusations made against me, who would be benefitting from my removal?

There has been no initiative benefiting the student body at large that I have not been supportive of. Despite that, the Legislative branch has only presented one piece of legislation in the last 7 months of this administration. This begs the question as to who is responsible for this shortcoming.

During the election, I have promised students (1) mental health (2) accountability (3) student success. I have not steered away from those objectives for a moment. This is reflected in the AFB Reform bill to allocate more funding to student organizations and the CAPS Expansion Act to improve psychological services on campus that I have initiated.

Does the student body want a President who stands up for what's right despite being unpopular? Do you support due process to investigate accusations?

Do you want to keep public officials accountable for their actions? If yes, VOTE NO to the recall and uphold integrity in the Student Government.

The Special Election will be held October 26-27th on Get Involved.

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 | 5 JAMES MUELLER, EDITOR

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/SPORTS

@THECOUGARSPORTS

SPORTS NEWS

FOOTBALL

Sack Avenue, where a quarterback’s nightmare becomes reality

The UH defensive line and their position coach Brian Early pose around the Sack Avenue sign after recording eight sacks in the Cougars’ 40-22 victory over Tulane on Oct. 7. | Courtesy of UH athletics

JAMES MUELLER

SPORTS EDITOR @JDM2186

Coming into the season, the Houston defensive line felt like something special was brewing among their position group.

As a unit, the Cougars’ defensive line wanted to brand the group with some sort of name that would let the country know what they are all about.

After conversing amongst each other, the group decided on a

name that would strike fear into opposing quarterbacks’ eyes.

“We call ourselves Sack Avenue,” junior defensive lineman Derek Parish said.

“We’re always (wanting) to live up to that name and title.”

Of course, the Cougars’ defensive line knew that they needed some swag if they were going to call themselves Sack Avenue.

And thus, the Sack Ave street sign was created.

Junior defensive linemen Derek Parish and Logan Hall combine for a sack of Tulane quarterback Michael Pratt. | Courtesy of UH athletics

“We made the sign just to give them a little bit more encouragement to continue to develop and continue to get to the quarterback,” said UH defensive coordinator Doug Belk. “They’ve been doing a really good job of that. They’ve kind of taken that idea and just made it their own.”

With all the talk about how dominant the UH defensive front would be combined with the effort put in by the unit to brand themselves, the Cougars knew they needed to back up their words with their play on the field.

Seven weeks into the college football season and it’s safe to say that the UH defensive line has not only performed like they said they would but has exceeded expectations by a mile.

“That’s kind of what we’re becoming known for,” UH head coach Dana Holgorsen said when asked about his defensive line’s ability to consistently get to the quarterback.

The UH defense bragged about its depth upfront all offseason, saying the group should not be taken lightly.

And it’s shown through the first half of the season.

Eight different UH defensive lineman have recorded a sack on the season.

Junior Logan Hall has a teamhigh four sacks followed closely behind by juniors Derek Parish and Latrell Bankston, who each have recorded 3.5 sacks.

As a whole, the Cougars rank third in the nation in sacks per game, averaging 4.17 a contest.

Junior cornerback Art Green has a front row seat to watch the Cougars’ defensive line wreck havoc on the opposing offense week after week.

In all of his football career, Green has never seen a more dominant defensive line than the one the Cougars have in 2021.

“The D-line is crazy,” Green said. “They make our job (in the secondary) way easier.”

This was put on full display in UH’s dominating win over Tulane.

The Cougars made Green Wave quarterback Michael Pratt’s night a living nightmare, sacking Pratt eight times.

After the game, junior D’Anthony Jones walked around

the field at Yulman Stadium holding up the Sack Ave red street sign, reminding people what the UH defensive line is all about.

Holgorsen showed his approval of the UH defensive line’s performance, tweeting “Sack Ave is my favorite street in Houston!!”

For the UH defensive line, the best part of their success is the joy the entire team has each time one of them gets to the opposing quarterback.

It really doesn’t matter to the UH defensive line who gets credit for the sack because they know everytime they get to the opposing quarterback it creates a spark on the Cougar sideline.

While it started out as a simple idea within the defensive line room, Sack Avenue has now become the identity of the entire UH team.

“Us as a unit, we collectively call ourselves Sack Ave,” Hall said. “So whoever gets a sack, we hold up that Sack Avenue (sign).

That’s us. We’re just letting the world know.” sports@thedailycougar.com

6 | Wednesday, October 20, 2021

SPORTS NEWS

THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM/SPORTS

JAMES MUELLER, EDITOR

@THECOUGARSPORTS

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

‘Playing next to sharks’: What motivates UH women’s basketball SEAN THOMAS

ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR @SEANTHOMAS723

UH women’s basketball is coming off a 2020-21 season that served as a major step forward for the program.

Following two straight losing seasons, the Cougars finished with a 17-8 record last year and finished third in the American Athletic Conference women’s basketball standings.

With his team picked to finish third in the AAC coaches poll, Cougars head coach Ronald Hughey is looking forward to the upcoming season and feels this year’s team is primed for another big season.

“We’re just so excited about the opportunity to compete this year,” Hughey said. “The thing I love about our team is the competitive nature of what we have when you start talking about the players up and down our roster.”

A source for the team’s competitiveness and motivation comes from right next door.

Hughey said UH men’s basketball head coach Kelvin

The UH women’s basketball team prepares for the 2021-22 season during a recent practice. | Courtesy of Jayda Hill

Sampson and his team show their support for the women’s team day in and day out.

By showing up to practices or motivate during workouts, the UH men are always finding ways to push their female counterparts to elevate to the next level.

“They’re always around encouraging our young ladies, watching workouts and even coming in and watching them play pickup,” Hughey said.

It’s rare enough for a school to have two successful programs on both the men’s and women’s side of a sport, but it’s another

for the two teams to share a strong relationship like the UH men’s and women’s basketball programs do.

Hughey is grateful for it, recognizing how important it is that they share this relationship with each other because it only makes the programs better.

“It’s a tremendous feeling when you can be next to such a great men’s program and have such a great relationship because at the end of the day everybody wins,” Hughey said.

Having a program right next door that has had continuous success and gone far in the NCAA Tournament, a tournament that Hughey’s team just missed out on last season, not only serves as motivation but Hughey also believes it rubs off on the team.

“The great thing about it is when you’re next to sharks it starts to rub off on you.” Hughey said “They elevate us because we get to see the work they put in every day. We get to see the culture they build and how they work and the things they do to be successful every day. We get to

mimic some of those things.”

Hughey mentioned that if he ever needs advice or a question answered, Sampson never hesitates to provide help.

“When you have Coach Sampson next to you, you can have a coach’s clinic every day,” Hughey said. “Any question I have I can go over and ask him and he’ll give me ample time to be able to answer that and help us even more.”

The team knows the opportunity they have to do something special this season with the talent on the team and resources around them.

Hughey has emphasized not taking any of it for granted.

“We have an opportunity with a team that understands those opportunities, that you can’t let them slip by,” Hughey said. “If you want to make the tournament, you have to be able to show commitment, you have to be able to say that mano a mano we took care of business against whatever team was in front of us.” sports@thedailycougar.com

2021 STUDENT FEES ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTATION SCHEDULE

All sessions will be held in the Senate Chamber in the Student Center North building TUESDAY, OCT. 26, 2021

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 27, 2021

FRIDAY, OCT. 29, 2021

8:30 a.m.

Committee Business

8:45 a.m.

Committee Business

8:45 a.m.

Committee Business

8:30 a.m.

Committee Business

9:00 a.m.

Dean of Students Office

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

DSAES IT Services

9:00 a.m.

Urban Experience Program

9:45 a.m.

Children's Learning Center

Student Governement Association Center for Student Involvement

Center for Student Media

9:30 a.m.

University Career Services

Break

9:30 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

Break

Veteran Services

Break

Break

10:30 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

Vice President for Student

Women and Gender Resource Center

Frontier Fiesta Association

The Cougar

11:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

Metropolitan Volunteer Program

10:45 a.m.

Coog Radio

11:30 a.m.

Public Comment

11:30 a.m.

Public Comment

11:15 a.m.

CoogTV

11:45 a.m.

Lunch

11:45 a.m.

Lunch

11:45 a.m.

Public Comment

11:00 a.m.

Campus Recreation

1:00 p.m.

Speech and Debate

1:00 p.m.

Student Program Board

12:00 p.m.

Lunch

11:45 a.m.

Public Comment

1:30 p.m.

Blaffer Gallery

1:30 p.m.

Homecoming Board

1:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Lunch

2:00 p.m.

Band/Spirit

Center for Diversity and Inclusion

2:00 p.m.

Council for Cultural Activities

1:30 p.m.

LGBTQ Resource Center

1:00 p.m.

UH Wellness

2:00 p.m.

Counseling and Psychological Services

1:30 p.m.

Cougars in Recovery

2:00 p.m.

Dart Center

Break

2:30 p.m.

Break Business Services

MONDAY, OCT. 25, 2021

Affairs and Enrollment Services Office

2:30 p.m.

Break

2:30 p.m.

Break

2:45 p.m.

Intercollegiate Athletics

2:45 p.m.

Activities Funding Board

3:30 p.m.

Adjournment

3:15 p.m.

AD Bruce Religion Center

2:45 p.m.

3:45 p.m.

Center for Fraternity and Sorority Life

3:00 p.m.

Health Center

2:45 p.m.

3:45 p.m.

Adjournment

3:15 p.m.

Process Wrap-Up

3:45 p.m.

Adjournment

4:15 p.m.

Adjournment

SFAC is charged with recommending funding allocations for Student Services Fees, making recommendations on behalf of all students. All presentations are open to the public, and a daily time is set aside for public comment. If you require disability accommodations, For more information visit uh.edu/sfac

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SPORTS

Game day brings new experiences to campus life TYLER GARRETT STAFF WRITER

With the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting so much of campus life, students, alumni and faculty have jumped at the opportunity to resume a normal life of living on campus.

Classrooms, organizations, events – all have returned in person. The comeback of full capacity games at TDECU stadium highlights a glimpse of post-pandemic life for students, especially those living on campus.

“This is my first year on campus, so it’s pretty exciting to see,” said health and nutrition sophomore Roman Hernandez. “It’s definitely hype to see the lines and everything around campus. You walk around and there are people all over campus, and then you see even more people lined up outside of the stadium.”

However, it’s not just new students that are enjoying the ability to attend full capacity games and game day events – for returning sophomores, it’s a reminder of what college is, and what campus was prior to the pandemic.

“We’re finally able to do things in person. I’m so glad we don’t have to go through another Homecoming week doing virtual scavenger

hunts,” said psychology sophomore Alexis Aryal. “I’m grateful that the programs did the best they could, but the college experience is so much better in person. It really feels like campus revolves around one thing on game days.”

Students and players are seeing the difference home crowds can make – the Cougars are undefeated at home this season, looking to bring a five-game win streak to six in front of the home crowd during the University’s Homecoming game. UH football is 5-6 at home under head coach Dana Holgorsen, although the Cougars have won each of the last three home games.

“I had no exposure to American football before coming to UH,” said psychology senior exchange student Ismael Ditta. “You just see a sea of red and everyone is headed to the same place. It’s really cool to see, it’s really the best example of the community that Houston has.”

Whether it’s students new to campus, or new to complete capacities – students from every background agree the atmosphere on game day is unmatched. Both the atmosphere before and during the game, living on campus allows students a unique experience when the Cougars play at home. sports@thedailycougar.com

The Quad is one of many on-campus housing options located close enough to the Fertitta and TDECU stadiums for on-campus residents to walk to football or basketball games. | Sydney Rose/The Cougar

HOUSING

Easy meals to make in your dorm or apartment JASMINE QADEER

STAFF WRITER

Whether you live on campus with a full-blown kitchen, or just have a microwave, toaster and fridge, here are a few quick and easy recipes to make when you’re in a pinch.

Chocolate mug cake If you’re craving something sweet but don’t have the time, or skill level, to bake a cake, try a mug cake.

All you need is all-purpose flour, white sugar, cacao powder, milk, oil and vanilla extract.

Combine all your ingredients in a microwave-safe mug, and microwave for one to two minutes, or until the center of the cake is cooked through.

You can also top with chocolate chips and frosting for an easy-tomake dessert. For more details, check out a recipe from AllRecipes.

Mug pizza Many people have tried making mug desserts at some point during

lockdown, but you’ve probably never heard of a mug pizza. Turns out it’s delicious and super easy to prepare, making it the perfect dorm meal when you’re craving fast food.

To make it, you will need allpurpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, milk, olive oil, pizza sauce, cheese and your toppings of choice. First, combine all your dry ingredients in a mug, then mix in milk and oil to make the dough. Lastly, spread your pizza sauce across the surface of the batter, add cheese/toppings, then microwave for one minute.

For exact measurements, try following this one minute mug pizza recipe by Spice Bangla.

Sandwiches There’s not much to be said here, everyone loves a good sandwich. They are versatile, easy to make and easy to eat, making it the perfect lunch for a busy day on campus. Try switching up your sandwiches by adding new cheeses, sauces or using

Oatmeal If you’re looking for a healthier breakfast, try making your own oatmeal.

Overnight oats are another great option if you don’t have much preparation time in the morning. Simply combine rolled oats with milk, chia seeds and your sweetener of choice and leave in the fridge overnight.

When you wake up, be sure to top with either fruit, chocolate chips or peanut butter to add more flavor.

All you’ll need to make these easy meals will be a fridge and a few ingredients and a hungry stomach. | File photo

different types of bread. Some ideas for when you have a little more time include a chicken pesto panini, and an egg sandwich with avocado.

Upgraded ramen meals You can try stepping up your usual instant ramen noodles by adding some new toppings that you probably already have stocked

in your fridge.

First, you can try adding different proteins such as a boiled egg, chicken or tofu.

If you don’t have meat on hand, be sure to add some veggies such as mushrooms and green onion.

You also can’t go wrong with adding some sriracha, chili garlic or soy sauce to add more flavor to the broth.

Quesadillas If you have access to a stove in your apartment or dorm, a quesadilla is a great dinner.

Simply heat a flour tortilla on a pan and top with cheese, veggies, meat or any other toppings of choice. Then lower the heat, cover the pan and allow the cheese to melt. Once melted, fold the quesadilla in half and flip until both sides are golden brown. arts@thedailycougar.com

10 | Wednesday, October 20, 2021

HOUSING NEWS

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DECOR

Home decoration ideas for Halloween, fall season

Juana Garcia/The Cougar

SYDNEY ROSE

SENIOR STAFF @SYDNEY_ROSEY

As fall comes into full swing, decorating your college residence hall to match the vibes of Halloween and the autumn season is a must.

Here are some ideas on how to decorate your dorm to fit the spooky aesthetic for October, while still following a college student budget.

Pumpkins Orange is the perfect fall color. Use lamps, beads and coasters to spice up your shelves and countertops. | Sydney Rose/The Cougar

Banners that are halloween themed and follow the color scheme around your apartment can help fill wall space. | Sydney Rose/The Cougar

Even if you aren’t a big Halloween person, pumpkins are universally fall-themed, whether the gourd has a face carved into it or not.

Many stores have options for pumpkin centerpieces, wall decor or even pumpkin-shaped pillows to leave on your couch or bed.

The best part? These pumpkin accessories don’t have to fall under the traditional Halloween color scheme. Even if the pumpkin is pastel, it is still on theme for the season.

Target has many options for pumpkin items including lights, candles and plastic pumpkins of all different colors.

Some of the decorations

included have fun sayings on them fitting the Halloween theme even more.

Fall colors When you think of Halloween or the autumn seasonal colors, the first thought is orange and black. Even if some items are your regular household decor, if the objects come in these colors, it is still on theme.

Some essentials that could be good for a dorm room when people are over include coasters and water glasses. These items are for everyday use, but getting these in orange, black or white can immediately turn them to fall decor.

For a more autumn angle, sticking to orange, red or brown tones can spice up any dorm room for the season. If it fits your budget, try adding a rug or curtains in those colors to set the tone.

Wall decor and lighting With the Halloween season ongoing, students have an excuse to cover their plain colored walls with posters or signs.

College students on a budget

can never go wrong with a trip to the nearest dollar store to decorate with on-season items.

Even if there aren’t traditional signs that read ‘trick or treat’, crafting your own sign to hang up with materials from there is always an option.

Picking up some spookythemed string lights to hang up or getting a light source that casts an orange glow could be a fun way to spruce up the space at night.

Traditionally, candles could offer a source of light, but as many residence hall rooms don’t allow open flames, batterypowered lights or candles can be the way to go.

If you are still looking for something fall-scented without needing to light a candle, stores such as Walmart or Marshalls have scented beads.

To really spice things up, throw the beads in a glass bowl as it makes a nice centerpiece for the room while making it smell nice.

There are many fall options for decorations, it is all in the matter of going out to find them. arts@thedailycougar.com

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 | 11 THEDAILYCOUGAR.COM

@THEDAILYCOUGAR

NEWS HOUSING

CORONAVIRUS

With students back on campus, a look at UH Housing’s COVID-19 protocols AMINAH TANNIR

NEWS EDITOR @AMOUNAJT

Living on campus this semester is one for the books with some students navigating returning to campus for in-person classes and others living in residence halls for the first time, so here’s a little guide to UH Housing COVID-19 protocols.

Residence halls mitigating the spread Although residence halls aren’t able to mandate the students to wear masks due to Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order, there is strong encouragement for students to take that extra precaution.

UH Student Housing and Residential Life created three levels of operation depending on the COVID-19 updates; COVID Normal, Adjusted and Highly Adjusted.

COVID Normal, the current operation level, has a few restrictions. Community spaces such as lobbies, fitness centers, computer labs, kitchens and study rooms are open with the maintenance of social distancing.

Guests are also allowed in the community at this level of operation, with the limitation of two guests per resident.

Adjusted housing operations from before have lobbies, kitchens and computer labs open with a limited capacity as well as study rooms open with social distancing.

Fitness centers will be closed.

Under Adjusted housing operations, guests will only be allowed in residential common

spaces but not in residential rooms, apartments or suites. Only one guest is allowed per resident.

Highly Adjusted operations would have all community spaces closed, with the exception of study rooms that are for individual use, and the lobby limited to 10 persons at a time.

Under Highly Adjusted operations, guests’ privileges are suspended, only allowing residents into the community.

At all levels of operation, guests are not allowed in residential rooms, apartments or suites.

Student expectations SHRL’s COVID-19 protocols website said social distancing helps protect members of the residential community in mitigating the spread of the virus.

Student residents are also encouraged to perform a daily assessment of their health.

Residents are responsible for not only themselves but their guests, according to SHRL. Guests are to be registered by the host at the service desk upon entry and will need to confirm they haven’t been diagnosed or are experiencing symptoms of COVID19.

Positive test aftermath UH’s COVID-19 Diagnosis page instructs students who are symptomatic or suspect they have the virus, to contact their medical provider or the Student Health Center for a COVID-19 test or diagnosis.

If students receive a positive

Gerald Sastra/The Cougar

result, they are required to fill out a positive COVID-19 diagnosis form and ask permission from their instructors to complete coursework remotely.

If a student’s symptoms are severe to where it’s impacting academic performance, it’s encouraged to contact the instructors.

Whether a student living on campus tested positive and is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or is asymptomatic, they need to contact their desk assistant or residential advisor in a manner appropriate for self-isolating.

For the safety of other student residents, if a COVID-19 positive student decides to stay on campus

they might need to move to a space designated for quarantining.

Students can qualify for a return to campus request if it’s been 10 days since their positive COVID-19 test result and they are asymptomatic, according to COVID-19 protocols.

If a student was symptomatic, it needs to have been 10 days since their positive test result and at least 24 hours since they’ve experienced a fever.

Students will be responsible for transferring their own belongings if they need to move to a designated quarantine space and will have access to limited services.

Student Housing and Residential Life will assist with services such as

dining, mail and garbage disposal as well as informing students on how to hand wash their clothes since utilizing communal laundry units won’t be permitted for them while quarantining.

Those that are quarantining aren’t permitted to have guests and won’t be allowed to leave the room unless it’s to seek medical attention or during a building emergency.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends for those who test positive to monitor their symptoms and to seek medical attention if they experience chest pain, trouble breathing or other severe symptoms. news@thedailycougar.com

INVOLVEMENT

A day in the life of an executive RHA member ASHLEY GWANANJI

ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR @ASHLEXS

Formed to represent those living on campus, members of the Residence Hall Association’s governing student body help communicate the needs and concerns of residents and plan events for their respective hall.

However, keeping up with the needs of the halls is no easy feat, according to hotel and restaurant management junior Sydney Hetherington.

But fortunately, Hetherington adjusted quickly due to her experience from the RHA Rotational Program last year. In addition to training her for her potential role, it inspired her to apply for a hall council position.

“The (RHA Rotational Program) was an opportunity including mentorship from each executive

board member throughout the year,” Hetherington said. “After learning each person’s role and even working with other hall councils, it was amazing to see how an organization of students could have such a large impact on others’ lives.”

Currently serving as RHA’s vice president of programming, Hetherington’s position puts her in charge of planning all organization events from start to finish, including task delegation.

Equipped with a knack for event planning, she uses her passion for it towards the creation of each student event.

“Each event has to be planned in a way that will reach every student differently,” Hetherington said. “For example, one of the past events included interest points for different students. Food, karaoke, coffee and even stickers are different reasons students come out

and have a good time or meet new people.”

With each event comes challenges, as Hetherington encounters roadblocks in her work.

Although a limited budget is one she struggles with, other challenges, however, persist.

“Each event’s goal is to make the most students happy using the least amount of energy with each event,” she said. “Having a limited budget this year makes it difficult to plan, but small things can make a big difference.”

“Since I am only in my second year at the University, one of my biggest challenges is lack of knowledge,” Hetherington added. “I do not know what school was like before the pandemic, and eventplanning during is not the easiest task. That said, it is a good reason to reach out to older students and receive advice on how to plan

Courtesy of Sydney Hetherington

events and such.”

Connecting with students is what Hetherington considers the best part of her job. Through her interactions, she grows potential friendships, some of which can last beyond graduation.

Hetherington appreciates making friendships immensely as she did not have the opportunity with her hall council. During that time, everything remained online due to COVID-19.

“This year, it has been a lot of fun being able to see new members in person and make that face-toface connection,” she said. “A lot of hall council members end up becoming good friends as well as easy networking opportunities.

I still chat with my previous mentors every now and then even as they enter the real world after graduation.” news@thedailycougar.com

12 | Wednesday, October 20, 2021

HOUSING NEWS

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HOUSING

What it’s like being a resident adviser on-call

Cougar Village II is where Laura Bere serves as a resident adviser. | Haya Panjwani/The Cougar

ARMANDO YANEZ

ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR @ARMANDOYANEZ_16

Resident advisers play a prominent role in the lives of students who choose to live in on-campus housing. Part of that job description involves going on-call.

Bere has worked as an RA for two years at UH now. | Courtesy of Laura Bere

When an RA goes on-call, they take time out of their days and nights, dedicating it to the aid and convenience of those who may need help. This includes anything from student issues, roommate problems, altercations, housing questions, advice and more.

Being students themselves, RAs take on the additional role of attending to their student residents on top of their own needs and lives.

However, these on-call hours can often take place during the evening hours and extend into the next morning.

Political science junior and secondyear RA Laura Bere, who lives at Cougar Village II, talked about her experiences with nights on-call.

“Last year was a COVID-19 year, so we didn’t get as many calls at night,” Bere said. “If an incident does happen, you have to be ready to handle it at any moment. We do our jobs because we love it, so it’s not a hassle. You need to have an attitude of gratitude.”

A resident adviser is a student just as much as their residents are, but with the additional responsibility of being on-call, it is very easy to assume that they do not get much rest.

“You don’t have to be up all the time,” Bere said. “I would say the weekend shift

is a little more hard in the fact that you have to probably be awake a lot longer because it is 24 hours.”

“We also have a very supportive staff so if we have an issue or are just too tired to do anything, they will help and assist us, and I am so grateful for that,” Bere continued. “There’s such a supportive environment with the RAs helping one another and never doing anything alone.”

Being a resident adviser requires attention and attentiveness to all residents and their needs, often asking for quick responses to calls at all times, even during the middle of the night.

“It’s not all the time that you get a call at night, and usually it’s split up so you won’t get all the calls since you have a partner with you on-call,” Bere said. “I would say that you get a pretty good amount of rest. You can wake up and help with a situation, and then when it’s done you can go back to bed.”

Despite the additional responsibilities that RAs have on top of their own, having that role comes with its pros and cons.

“An advantage is that when you’re on call at night there are usually residents coming in, so you get to see new faces and make those connections with them,” Bere said. “It gives you a different range of people to talk to and connect with.

Usually, at night a lot of things happen, so you get to be there as the helping hand if anything serious does happen.”

“As far as disadvantages, there aren’t really any. I wouldn’t really call it a disadvantage, but when you’re on-call you have to be alert at all times and be ready for any instance that would happen,” Bere continued. “I’m not really sure if there are any disadvantages to this because at the end of the day if you’re an RA, you do it because you want to.”

Even in student housing, situations may occur that may be more difficult for RAs to manage while they are on-call. These occasions can even require the attention of higher authorities such as UHPD, where the aid is just as helpful and beneficial to the RAs as it is to the situation at hand.

Resident advisers face many different encounters while they are on-call, as they contribute a ton of their own time and energy to being at the disposal of all of their student residents while valuing their position and its significance.

“What I’ve learned this semester is to be a [RA] is to be at the forefront of these first-year students’ lives,” Bere said. “It’s an important job and an important role, and it shouldn’t be overlooked.” news@thedailycougar.com

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 | 13 OPINION

Roommates don’t have to be friends

Gerald Sastra/The Cougar

ANNA BAKER

OPINION EDITOR @ANNA2POINT0

Despite what some new college freshmen desire, it’s okay for roommates to not be friends. In fact, sometimes it’s better that way.

When people enter college there is often a set of expectations they have set by the media. They think college will be full of parties and finding friends will be easy. College-centered movies solve the issues within two hours making it seem as though college is a breeze.

The reality is different for each student but a lot of expectations turn out to be false.

One thing people tend to believe is that they will become best friends with their roommate. In fact, there are even articles giving advice on how to become friends with your roommate. It’s expected that you’ll get along with your roommate but that doesn’t mean you have to be friends.

Rooming with friends can be great but come freshman year, you often don’t know who your roommate is going to be.

Even if you did choose your roommate, you might not get along as well as you thought.

People may picture the start of a lifelong friendship but it’s perfectly fine if that doesn’t happen. In fact, not being friends with your roommate has many advantages.

One advantage to not rooming with your friends is that it can be easier to have difficult roommate conversations.

Sometimes roommates don’t pull their

weight in buying toilet paper or doing the dishes and you have to confront them about it. If it’s your best friend that is leaving dirty dishes out or smelly food in the trash, it can be hard to talk to them about it.

You don’t want to cause conflict because it might strain your friendship. If you room with someone you don’t know that well, you might not feel as hesitant to talk to them about the issues you’re having. You’re not in danger of losing a friend over dishes.

It can be healthy to keep your living situation separate from your friendships.

The dynamic of a friendship changes when you live together and that can be difficult to process even if there aren’t any big issues.

Additionally, it can be nice to have a break from people in your life. Even if you have a good friendship with someone, sometimes you might want a break and just be by yourself for a bit.

It can be difficult to do that when you live together. If you don’t know your roommate very well, you probably won’t interact as much.

People come to college with expectations and sometimes those include becoming close friends with their roommates. People may feel bad if they don’t form an immediate connection but it’s important to know that it is okay.

Not everyone becomes friends with their roommates and sometimes they are better for it. opinion@thedailycougar.com

14 | Wednesday, October 20, 2021

OPINION NEWS

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ANNA BAKER, EDITOR

@THEDAILYCOUGAR

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

SGA should have an outlined process about debate leading to a recall election ANNA BAKER

OPINION EDITOR @ANNA2POINT0

To prevent chaos and wasting time in the future, the Student Government Association should create guidelines for what to do during a Senate meeting leading up to a potential recall election.

Recently the SGA Senate passed a “Resolution of Recall” to have a recall election for their President, Arsalan Darbin.

The side in favor of the recall claims that Darbin created a hostile work environment and said transphobic and sexist things to his cabinet. They also mentioned that Darbin didn’t pass the SGA budget by the Sept.

30 deadline.

The side against the recall denied the allegations and claimed they were false attacks.

Darbin also said he has done everything in his constitutional power to effectively serve as president.

Now a special election will happen to determine if Darbin stays or goes.

On Oct. 6, the Senate held a meeting where they passed

Juana Garcia/The Cougar

this resolution. Before voting, they held several moderated caucuses where SGA members gave their testimony. There were accusations of transphobia and sexism. There was also an accusation about a threat of physical violence.

Some of Darbin’s friends spoke about how good of a guy he was and how he was a great guy and great student. One brought up how Darbin helped him through

some tough times. While these students were trying to make Darbin’s character look good, the information was still irrelevant.

Darbin being a good friend or a good student has nothing to do with any of the allegations mentioned. A useful testimony would be claiming that Darbin never said anything sexist and that he was in fact very supportive of the women in

his cabinet. However, these people never mentioned anything relevant to the actual grievances.

This was wasted time. Instead of focusing on the accusations, time was spent considering the president’s friendships with people outside of SGA, which was completely irrelevant.

The main issue is that there wasn’t an outlined process on how to handle voting for a recall. People talked about irrelevant things which shouldn’t happen in a meeting focusing on something as serious as a recall. Darbin spent most of his seven minutes allotted to speak talking about his childhood.

“So a little bit about myself, some background information in case you guys don’t know me,” Darbin said. “I was born in Iran in the middle east. I was 11 years old… when we moved to India.”

Darbin continued talking about his life giving details about the hardships he and his family went through when immigrating. The speech, though detailed and inspiring

in how much he overcame, had nothing to do with the grievances that were brought to the Senate by Senator Abraham Sanchez.

By the time he started to rebut the points made by Sanchez, the Speaker of the Senate had to cut him off due to him going overtime. The meeting should have been more streamlined making it required for speakers to stick to talking about the recall and the grievances.

Instead, the meeting felt chaotic with people going on tangents that had little to do with the topic at hand.

It’s hard to blame the participants, as there is no precedent for a recall process.

In order to prevent chaotic meetings like this from happening in the future, SGA should come up with a process for meetings in which the Senate votes on a recall election.

This way, no time is wasted and the Senate can take the time to hear all relevant information before voting. opinion@thedailycougar.com

2021 STUDENT FEES ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTATION SCHEDULE

All sessions will be held in the Senate Chamber in the Student Center North building TUESDAY, OCT. 26, 2021

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 27, 2021

FRIDAY, OCT. 29, 2021

8:30 a.m.

Committee Business

8:45 a.m.

Committee Business

8:45 a.m.

Committee Business

8:30 a.m.

Committee Business

9:00 a.m.

Dean of Students Office

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

DSAES IT Services

9:00 a.m.

Urban Experience Program

9:45 a.m.

Children's Learning Center

Student Governement Association Center for Student Involvement

Center for Student Media

9:30 a.m.

University Career Services

Break

9:30 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

Break

Veteran Services

Break

Break

10:30 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

Vice President for Student

Women and Gender Resource Center

Frontier Fiesta Association

The Cougar

11:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

Metropolitan Volunteer Program

10:45 a.m.

Coog Radio

11:30 a.m.

Public Comment

11:30 a.m.

Public Comment

11:15 a.m.

CoogTV

11:45 a.m.

Lunch

11:45 a.m.

Lunch

11:45 a.m.

Public Comment

11:00 a.m.

Campus Recreation

1:00 p.m.

Speech and Debate

1:00 p.m.

Student Program Board

12:00 p.m.

Lunch

11:45 a.m.

Public Comment

1:30 p.m.

Blaffer Gallery

1:30 p.m.

Homecoming Board

1:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Lunch

2:00 p.m.

Band/Spirit

Center for Diversity and Inclusion

2:00 p.m.

Council for Cultural Activities

1:30 p.m.

LGBTQ Resource Center

1:00 p.m.

UH Wellness

2:00 p.m.

Counseling and Psychological Services

1:30 p.m.

Cougars in Recovery

2:00 p.m.

Dart Center

Break

2:30 p.m.

Break Business Services

MONDAY, OCT. 25, 2021

Affairs and Enrollment Services Office

2:30 p.m.

Break

2:30 p.m.

Break

2:45 p.m.

Intercollegiate Athletics

2:45 p.m.

Activities Funding Board

3:30 p.m.

Adjournment

3:15 p.m.

AD Bruce Religion Center

2:45 p.m.

3:45 p.m.

Center for Fraternity and Sorority Life

3:00 p.m.

Health Center

2:45 p.m.

3:45 p.m.

Adjournment

3:15 p.m.

Process Wrap-Up

3:45 p.m.

Adjournment

4:15 p.m.

Adjournment

SFAC is charged with recommending funding allocations for Student Services Fees, making recommendations on behalf of all students. All presentations are open to the public, and a daily time is set aside for public comment. If you require disability accommodations, For more information visit uh.edu/sfac

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 | 15 HAYA PANJWANI EDITORS & AMINAH TANNIR,

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@THEDAILYCOUGAR

LIFE ANDNEWS ARTS

ADVICE

Ask Ashley: Advice on relationships, work, more nothing Doja Cat raps about on “Ain’t S----.”

ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR @ASHXLES

I think someone in my office hates me. What should I do?

In The Cougar’s weekly anonymous advice column, I brush on first dates, relationships and work. To submit your questions for future issues, click the “Ask Ashley” button on our home page.

I am going on a first date.

What should I know?

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -Don’t limit yourself because of someone else’s decision. Finish what you set out to do. Personal growth and self-improvement will be enlightening and give you a unique perspective.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Refuse to let uncertainty be your downfall. Map out a path that will take you from where you are to where you want to be. Make decisions based on your needs. Doing your homework will be necessary.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Focus on efficiency and getting along with those you live or work alongside. Don’t let an outsider interfere with your plans. Be specific about what you want and how you expect to reach your target. Romance is encouraged.

The Cougar

thedailycougar.com

ABOUT THE COUGAR

ASHLEY GWANANJI

Hey! Firstly, kudos to you on going on a date - a first one at that! You already know what to do: finesse them for a free meal!

Just kidding! Do not do that…. unless? All jokes aside, first dates can be nerve-wracking, and it is valid if you are feeling a bit nervous.

However, I am here to advice you to not overthink it! I like to think of first dates as a way to see how well you vibe with a person.

That means they should be fun.

It’s kind of like you’re going out with a new friend, but make it romantic!

When you add too much pressure on your date, I feel like it takes the fun out of it.

Although dates are supposed to be fun, I do think you should keep aware of potential red flags. Always know that you do not have to do anything you do not want to. If your date is not respecting your “no,” then they should be no more.

Did I make that rhyme? Yes. Was it a bar? Debatable. But I

i

Juana Garcia/The Cougar

think it was a great public service announcement. Essentially, relax, be yourself and know you can always say no. Let your friends know your location. And most importantly, have fun!.

I think my man is cheating on me. Should I look through his phone?

Oop! I am so sorry, anon. As much as I love drama, I prefer this plotline on “The Real Housewives of Potomac,” and not for you.

Okay, but real talk? I can’t answer this with a strong yes or no.

I think this is a matter for you to answer. It’s kind of like a gut feeling, you know?

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Leave nothing to chance and choose your battles wisely.

Emotions will surface, causing disputes with friends and relatives if you don’t play fair.

If you want something, offer incentives.

AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Put on your happy, optimistic face, and charge forward with enthusiasm. Your attitude will make a difference when faced with controversy or opposition.

Know what you want and pursue it with gusto.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- Play to win when dealing with challenging situations. Use your insight and unique outlook to outmaneuver anyone who gets in your way. Take the necessary precautions when in crowded areas.

And to be honest, if you feel like your man has been every breed of dog for a while, I’d advice leaving.

Your man should not be giving you Chihuahua or French bulldog vibes.

Also, it seems there is a lack of trust in the relationship. Have you considered talking about it with him?

While I do not have a particular answer for you (I know, bummer), I think you should be aware that looking through the phone could be a violation of trust in your partner.

However, if you’re at the point where you truly need to know, I can’t stop you there.

I hope everything works out for you anon, truly. I’m hoping he’s

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Set your sights on what you want, and don’t stop until you are satisfied. Make a promise to a loved one, and you will receive the support you require to reach an important milestone.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Don’t stumble when precision and detail are required. Put a safety net in place and proceed with confidence.

Keep moderation in mind and communicate what you want to do in simple terms.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Put your energy where it counts. You’ll gain recognition for what you accomplish, not from what you neglect to finish.

An opportunity to use your skills and your intelligence is apparent.

Hey! That has to be tough, I’m sorry you’re going through that right now. But honestly, Michael Scott, do not fret it — we all have a Toby.

Until it gets to the point where it’s affecting how you work, I think you should pay no attention to the individual. Besides, it’s all speculation at this point, no?

However, if it does get to the point of a “WWE SmackDown!,” seek help. There should be no reason why you should be cosplaying as The Undertaker or Rey Mysterio at work.

Also, know that you should not feel forced to stay in a toxic work environment. If this person is messing up your vibes, even beyond intervention, my advice is getting out. Your state of mind is way more important than a paycheck.

For every star, there is a hater, anon. You just got to shake them off.

And if you’re wondering, you are the star in question ... unless you are the hater, well then this is awkward.

I hope it all works out for you! arts@thedailycougar.com

CANCER ( June 21-July 22) -- Lean on someone who has relied on you for support.

The assistance you receive will encourage a unique relationship to develop. The chance to make a positive move looks good.

LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22) -- Recognize the changes going on around you and gravitate toward what makes you feel comfortable. Home improvements will pay off.

Romance will bring you closer to a loved one.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Take good care of domestic matters and your physical well-being. Don’t get into an emotional tiff with a friend or relative. Keep the peace and go about your business.

-Astrograph by Eugenia Last

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