The Houstonian

Vol 115— Issue 8

Huntsville, Texas

SPORTS

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

FEATURE PRESENTATION

Kats get eighth straight win SEE page 6

Entertainment editor Kevin Jukkola shares insight on best picture nominee “The Blind Side.”

SEE page 5

INDEX

Nation & World...page 4

Viewpoints................page 2

Entertainment........page 5

Campus................page 3

Sports....................page 6

LOOKING BACK:

Dec. 3, 2009 Notes from Senate Meeting Senators expressed concerns over:

Tuesday, Feb. 9

• •

45° 29°

•

10% Wednesday, Feb. 10

• •

48° 37° 10%

Graphics by Jared Wolf | The Houstonian

Thursday, Feb. 11

39° 35°

After three years of planning, $140,000 fresh new look said to be ‘necessary’

By Kristin Meyer Senior Reporter

70%

Friday, Feb. 12

45° 34°

Notice anything different? Complete with slideshow and new links, as of Feb. 14, Sam Houston launched its newly redesigned website to appeal to prospective students and make the site more accessible.

CORRECTION

20%

The Houstonian would like to clarify errors made on the front page in Thursday’s issue.

Several times throughout the “Disorderly Conduct” article the names of Sergeant Curt Landrum and Student Assistant Jason Larkins were switched.

The article also incorrectly includes Brent Estes, who is not affiliated with the cheer leading squad, as the coach.

A corrected version of the article can be found online.

Saturday, Feb. 13

55° 38° 20% Graphics by Jared Wolf | The Houstonian

KATlinks

Information

courtesy of www. weather.com

Now Hiring Starting hourly rate as much as $13.75 at Census Job

By Erin Peterson

Contributing Writer

Every time the New Year rolls to zero, the government tallies up our new total population.

Fortunately, they cannot do it by themselves.

By calling 1-866-8612010 or logging on to www.2010censusjobs. gov, you’re automatically put in touch all the information you’ll need to acquire a job with the 2010 U.S. Census.

— See CENSUS, page 3

“The redesign was necessary to update the design and utility of our website, especially with regard to its appeal to prospective students and their parents,” Frank Holmes, vice president for University Advancement said. “The site has approximately 1 million visitors annually; therefore, in many respects, it is often the first thing people see

CRIME STOPPERS Information courtesy of the Huntsville/ Walker County Crime Stoppers Several cin collecting machines in the 2600 block of El Toro Drive were damaged and broken into between Tuesday, Jan. 26 and Tuesday, Feb. 2. The machines were in the laundry room of the Vinyards Apartments area.

Last semester, a residence in the 1400 block of 22nd Streetwas broken into between Dec. 26 and Dec. 28. Some of the items stolen included two Polaroid televisions and a Nintendo

Wii by the suspects.

On Wednesday, Jan. 27 between the hours of 1:40 a.m. and 1:51 a.m., an unknown white male attempted to break into Jessica’s Fashions located in the 900 block of 11th Street. The white male was attempted to pry the side of the building to get inside. The white male was described at being average height and built, wearing a blue hoodie and what looked like a white long sleeve shirt underneath. The subject was last seen running toward the direction of Avenue J and 10th Street.

Crime Stoppers pays up to $1000 in cash rewards for tips that lead to the arrest of the person or persons involved in crimes.

•

You do not have to give your name when you call.

•

You can call Crime Stoppers at 936-294-9494.

•

http://walkercounty.crimestoppersweb.com

regarding our university.

We want their first impressions to be so positive that they visit again and become more engaged with our university.”

According to Today @ Sam, improvements to the website include relocation of the fastlinks, e-mail, SHSUOnline, SamWeb, and Blackboard icons, among many other things.

This new design is not new news to the university, but it has been in the works for years. “The subject of web redesign first came up more than three years ago with our former marketing director, Kris Ruiz, and it continued with the appointment of Ann O’Meara to the position.”

•

• •

the omission of a direct link to the library on the homepage the omission of a fast links drop-down menu on the homepage the narrow use of a portrait design over the more functional portal design that faculty are both familiar with and use on a daily basis the use of the term “Majors and Programs” over of the conventional term “Colleges” quality control over the stories and faces presented on the new homepage, particularly the diversity of the faces presented at the bottom of the page, and quality of the stories in the slider the limited involvement of faculty in the decision process, both up to this point and going forward (the website redesign committee was composed of Heather Crowson, Frank Holmes, Ann O’Meara, Mark Adams, Keri Rogers and Thelma Mooney) the focus of the “Research and Recognition” area of the new webpage the limited information over the data used to inform the decision process

— See COSTS, page 3

Let the celebration begin Recreational Sports center to kick Mardi Gras celebration with midnight mayhem.

By Shawn Ramsey Contributing Writer

Mardi Gras is getting started a week early in the streets of New Orleans after the city’s NFL team, the Saints, victory in Super Bowl XLIV Sunday night.

SHSU wants to get the party started early as well with the 2010 Midnight Mayhem: Mardi Gras tomorrow, February 10th, in the Recreational Sports Center beginning at 8 p.m lasting until midnight.

“With this year’s theme being Mardi Gras and with the New Orleans Saints winning the Super Bowl, it seems to be perfect timing,” said Chasity Monk, ambassador of the Marketing Department Strike up the jazz bands and get ready to catch some beads: the day is finally upon us.

“We are having free prizes and food, in a fun and safe environment for students,” said Adam Shepperd, greater assistant of marketing and special events This year’s Midnight May-

hem has something for everyone. Food eating contests for those who think they can out-eat their peers in marshmallows, crackers, whipped cream and Jell-o (with no hands), and powdered donuts. A mechanical bull will be there for the adventurous type. A black light putt-putt course and video games on giant screens will be set up for those who just like to kick back and relax.

— See Mayhem, page 3

LOVE WEEK

Letting go Counselors guide students on breaking-up without breaking down

Michaela Keck| The Houstonian

“According to the counseling center, love is divided into three categories-- romantic, nurturing and addictive

By Kara Vaughan

Contributing Writer

As cardboard hearts and chocolate candies fill department stores, not everyone is excited about the approaching Valentine’s Day. For those experiencing a recent break-up or facing a doomed relationship, a day dedicated to lovers can be a dreaded holiday. So, how do you

cope with being single again?

When do you know it is time to give up and walk away from someone?

The Counseling Center has organized “Love Week” at SHSU with various programs to remind students they are not alone and help bring clarity to emotional times. Tuesday in the LSC building, room 308, from 2-3 p.m. students are encouraged to gather for a survival break-

up workshop to discuss how to deal with various relationship issues.

“The week before Valentine’s seems like a good time for these programs,” said Dr. Drew Miller, director of the Counseling Center. “They were planned by the entire staff in response to an increase of students coming in with relationship problems.”

— See LOVE, page 3

Page 2 The Houstonian

What is one thing you want to do before you die?

VIEWPOINTS Steven Begnaud Sophomore

“Go to Fiji and go shark diving.”

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Letter to the Student Body Dear Sam Houston Students, Staff and Faculty and Alumni: The Houstonian would not survive were it not for the continued involvement and dedication of the SHSU student body.

We welcome all column submissions and letters to the editor.

If at any time you feel the need to express an opinion, please do not hesitate to email your thoughts or drop by our office in the Dan Rather, room 210 in the communications building. We look forward to hearing from you and thank you as always for your continued support of the Houstonian.

Heath Wierck Viewpoints Editor haw002@shsu.edu

What are friends for?

Tracy Richardson

Andrew Lisenby

Charlena Foster

Theresa Goolsby

“To go skydiving.”

“Live in a foreign country, like Europe.”

“Climb a mountain.”

“Go skydiving, because of the thrill.”

Junior

Junior

Junior

Heath Wierck shares his experiences

in “people watching” and how it made him question the idea of having children. chew bubble gum, people definitely cannot walk and text message at the same time; and lastly, I ended up wondering about children, and rather or not I should have them.

My observation does have a translucent quality to it, because I will hope-

be completely out of the question.

Evidence of such occurrences can be clearly seen pretty much anywhere. It just so happened that one of the most prominent sights I saw while “people watching” was, in fact, teenagers being overly disrespectful

“Personally,

I find it somewhat troubling to think about raising a child in this era of human existence.” fully have children one day.

I guess it’s just something that I will mostly likely forever second guess.

Now, one might ask how I ended up at such an astute observation, and honestly I’m not entirely sure. It could be a mixture of realizing the decline of our society as a structured machine, which couples with the lack of respect today’s children have for their elders, or the fact that I found it disturbing how some teenagers carry themselves—I’m sorry, but a 13 year old girl should not be allowed to wear a skirt, and a short skirt should

to their parent/parents. My younger brother exhibits this behavior quite frequently towards my mother, and I can’t stand it.

Sure I was somewhat the same way as a teen, as most of us probably were, but never to the extreme extent that I see today. I might get a little fussy, and mutter under my breath dark words of vengeance towards my elder, but I would never think to pursue an outright onslaught of boorish behavior directed toward my parent; most especially in public. Needless to say that if I had, I most likely wouldn’t be

talks about the

Sophomore

To have, or not to have?

One of the things I like to do is people watch. I find it very intriguing what you can witness while sitting idly by, merely observing people as they pass. And just to clarify, making it distinctly clear, I’m not some weirdo who likes to watch and spy on people.

It’s just observing; taking notice you could say.

I normally find the mall to be the best place to partake in “people watching,” as it has the most diverse crowd imaginable. It generally provides people of all ages, gender and races, offering a productive opportunity to people watch.

Last Friday, my girlfriend and I decided to go to the Woodlands Mall for a day filled with glorious shopping entertainment.

Being the good little boyfriend I am, I spent most of my time waiting patiently on a bench somewhere; giving me the opportunity to people watch.

After sitting there for a while, watching people pass and pondering about life, I came to a few conclusions: first, men always seem disorganized in a mall; second, like the myth that blondes can’t walk and

Meagan Ducic

writing this today.

Personally, I find it somewhat troubling to think about raising a child in this era of human existence. The ever-changing culture serves as a scary speed bump when it comes it raising children; like the unpredictability of the smell of a flatulence, we can never be too sure of what influence society will have on our children—or rather how great of an influence society will have.

It’s definitely evident that today’s teenagers are much different than that of five years ago, 10 years ago and definitely 20 years ago. In the end, it really boils down to the capability of the parents, and exactly how well, or not so well, they raise their children. But the concern is definitely there, and should absolutely be something we as young adults ought to consider greatly.

Heath Wierck is the Viewpoints Editor for The Houstonian. He is a Senior English major, History minor.

Comics for thought

quality of friendships.

The average person can make many mindless assumptions. One that is particularly prevalent is the assumption that everyone needs to have friends. This is untrue. For example, too often people find themselves in situations where they feel the desire to collect outside opinions.

Friends and sometimes siblings, cousins or other close relatives are then polled; each one taking the time to share exactly how they would parry the predicament. Once all parties have weighed in, decision time arrives and what happens? Seven to eight times out of ten, the accumulated advice is ignored and the one asking all the questions chooses to deal with the problematic issue their own way. This is of course my educated estimation, but I guarantee I’m in the ballpark.

Why is it necessary to go through the motions if most people know what they’re going to do and are just hoping to be backed up? It seems that instead of more friends, something truly of use would be more selfconfidence.

Maintaining a high quantity of friends in one person’s life is like maintaining a closet overstuffed with shoes. You keep them; while some you can’t stand for more than thirty minutes, and most are not your style anymore. The opportunity cost of keeping those “shoes” around is severe.

Too many people in my life have been unnecessary from the start. I spent years and years surrounded by people I called friends, but I truly didn’t care what they thought about my life and the situations it presented me.

Ultimately, I wasted my time, my thoughts, my money and far too much good liquor on people who didn’t really add anything positive to my life. Once I realized that, I knew I had to clean house. It quickly became clear there is but one person who I am genuinely friends with. Only one who I would hop on a Wednesday red-eye for, no questions asked. Honestly, I wouldn’t even have time for more than one true friend.

Mindless assumptions do not get you where you need to go. Friends are not a necessity, they are an option.

You can’t hold on to relationships that don’t foster the environment you need to become who you want to be in life.

If any part of you is reflected in my journey to understanding friendship, give yourself permission to make uncomfortable choices. Then move on—without guilt or regret.

Meagan Ducic is a guest columnist for The Houstonian. She is a Senior Print Journalism major, English minor.

The individual opinions on the Viewpoints page are not necessarily affiliated with the view of The Houstonian or SHSU. The Houstonian is published semi-weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is a news publication of Sam Houston State University, a member of the Texas State University system, and is produced by students. It is self-supporting and welcomes all advertisers. Those interested in placing ads or classifieds should call (936) 294-4864. The Houstonian is a member of the Associated Press.

The Houstonian Editorial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Meagan Ellsworth...............................................................936-294-1505 FACULTY ADVISOR Patsy Ziegler.....................................................................936-294-1499 SECTION EDITORS

Comic courtesy of comics.com

Lotis Butchko....................................................................Senior Joe Buvid.............................................................................Photo Jessica Priest..................................................................Associate Heath Wierck..............................................................Viewpoints Mike Silva...........................................................................Sports Kevin Jukkola........................................................Entertainment Thomas Merka...................................................................Web Amanda Earp.......................................................................Copy

Editor Editor Editor Editor Editor Editor Editor Editor

STAFF Kristin Meyer.................................................................Senior Reporter Brandon Scott.................................................................Sports Reporter John Rudolph.......................................................................Photographer Jared Wolf....................................................................................Graphics

Advertising BUSINESS MANAGER Tammie Nokes.................................................................936-294-1500 STAFF Brad Basker.........................................................Advertising Relations Brittany Hampton...............................................Advertising Manager Brittany Pires.......................................................Production Manager

Comic courtesy of comics.com

Advertising Deadlines

Tuesday’s Issue............... Friday at 2:00 p.m.

Thursday’s Issue........... Tuesday at 2:00 p.m.

CAMPUS T h e F i r s t S a m last chance to H o u s t o n P i o n e e r s order class ring

The Houstonian, Page 3

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

NAACP to celebrate and honor SHSU’s past

By Jessica Priest Associate News Editor The Sam Houston State University’s National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or the NAACP, is turning back the pages of time this Wednesday, Feb. 10, with a presentation entitled “The First Sam Houston Pioneers”.

The event, which will last from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Olson auditorium, will celebrate the rich and diverse history of SHSU and honor the individuals who paved the way for instrumental civil rights change at the university.

“The purpose of the program is to enlighten and bring awareness to the SHSU community about the different courageous individuals that stood up for the injustices that happened during the middle of the twentieth century for civil rights around the Huntsville area,” said NAACP program and research chair Marcelo Pendleton.

This event is a combined effort that has been in the works since November 2009.

It is hosted in participation with eight different multicultural organizations on campus and sponsored in part by the Office of Multicultural and International Student Services, or the office of the M.I.S.S. The organizations that plan on participating in the event are: Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Omega Psi Phi, African Student Association, International Hispanic Association, The Exceptional Men of the Talented Tenth.

According to Pendleton, there will also be dance per-

formances, a soloist and an award ceremony to celebrate the courageous acts of SHSU alumni and past faculty and staff.

In all, the honorees of the event are: Mrs. Jaspyr Sanford, Mr. John A. Patrick, Dr. Rupert Koeninger, Dr. Elliott T. Bowers, and Mr. Wendell Baker.

“Mrs. Jaspyr Sanford was our first African-American faculty member. She was a librarian,” Pendleton said.

According to Pendleton, Sanford worked at the Newton Gresham Library from 1965 to 2000.

Next up is SHSU alumni, John A. Patrick.

“Mr. John A. Patrick was our first African-American student. He came to Sam Houston State University in 1964 and graduated in 1968,” Pendleton said.

In addition, Dr. Rupert Koeninger, another honoree, was a sociology professor at SHSU in the 1960’s. During his time at SHSU, Koeninger challenged the administration to extend equality to students of all races and ethnicities.

“Dr. Koeninger paid poll taxes for African-Americans who couldn’t afford it at the time which ultimately, because of his movement during the civil rights era, led him to be fired… this was a decision that came from the board of regents, which was delivered by university president Harmon Lowman at the time,” Pendleton said. “Dr. Koeninger was instrumental in advocating for all races at Sam Houston State University.”

Another honoree, Elliott T. Bowers, served as university president from 1970 to 1989.

During his time at SHSU,

many university facilities were added to the campus including the Dan Rather Communications Building, Health and Kinesiology Building, Lee Drain Building, the Fine Arts Building and Elliott T. Bowers Stadium and Field House.

Lastly, Mr. Wendell Baker will be honored at the historical event. Baker is best known as the founder of Alpha Phi Alpha at the Texas Southern University, but he too played a powerful role in the university’s history.

“He also paid poll taxes for hundreds of black residents in Huntsville in the 1960’s,” Pendleton said. “He is also the cousin of Secretary James A. Baker, who is the former Secretary of State under former president George H.W. Bush.”

Seating for the event is available on a first come first serve basis. Pendleton hopes to fill up the entire auditorium and enlighten students about SHSU’s interesting past.

M.I.S.S. Coordinator, Donielle Miller, agrees that this event is a must-see.

“I think that people should go to the event to get more information about those persons who made sacrifices, who decided that I’ll be the first one to break the barrier - to make multiculturalism apart of the Sam Houston State University campus,” said Donielle Miller.

“I met Mrs. Sanford and she’s an amazing woman with lots of wisdom … she talks about her experiences and its very enlightening … it humbles you and it makes you aware of the sacrifices that people had to make to get Sam Houston where it is today.”

From LOVE page 1

Michaela Keck | The Houstonian

LOVE WEEK: The SHSU Counseling Center will present events and discussions about love and relationships Feb. 8-11.

FOR SALE Queen pillowtop mattresss set only $189.

New and in plastic, King $239, Full $169, Twin $149. First come -- first serve.

Call today. 936-291-9600

On Thursday, Feb. 11, the Counseling Center is offering advice on how to tell when a relationship has come to a dead end and the best way to break it off. According to the Counseling Center, love is divided into three categories: romantic, nurturing and addictive. The emotional response after a break-up depends on the type of love the couple experienced.

“We tend to be critical of ourselves and other people at the end of a relationship.

You need support to heal and move forward. Many people respond by jumping into another relationship afterward and it is problematic,” said Miller. “Some relationships

According to the NAACP’s national homepage, the mission of the organization is to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. This organization, which was founded on Feb. 12, 1909, is the oldest, largest and most widely recognized civil rights organization.

NAACP Unit 6816, or the Sam Houston Chapter, was founded on October 18, 1986.

According to Pendleton, students interested in joining the organization must maintain a 2.0 grade point average and pay $20 in dues.

“We have roughly around 120 members. On average, the amount of people who are in depth and involved is 30 to 40 students,” Pendleton said.

“To get on with the chapter, you have to have a 2.0 and be a student at Sam Houston State…We have our regularly scheduled body meetings every Thursday at 5:15 in the LSC, Room 320.”

Students that have 75 hours or more are eligible to wear the official class ring of Sam Houston State University.

Those interested in purchasing a class ring are asked to visit the LSC Atrium on Feb. 8 through Feb. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This will be the last chance for students to order their ring and recieve it in time for the SHSU Ring Ceremony on April 10. For more information, please call (936) 294-1841 or visit alumni.shsu.edu.

Michaela Keck | The Houstonian

CLASS RING: Tabitha Scott samples a Balfour class ring,

weighing her options. Balfour will be taking ring orders in the LSC Atrium from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. until Thursday. Ring orders must be placed this week in order to participate in the Ring Ceremony on April 1. Balfour Promotion Specialist Frank Nespoli advises to beat the rush before Thursday.

From MAYHEM For more information about this event and the NAACP, please visit their homepage at http://www. shsu.edu/~org_naacp or e-mail the NAACP program and research chair Marcelo

Pendleton

at

mdp014@shsu.edu. need to end and sometimes a person doesn’t want to accept a relationship is over.”

“End a relationship anytime it starts to consume your life, if you have to manage it all the time or if you feel like you no longer have a voice,” said Miller.

If your relationship has gotten a little rocky but you plan to work it out, the Counseling Center invites you and your significant other to join couples counseling. As long as one person in the relationship is a student at SHSU, then both may attend. Through a third party, experienced in a person’s individual and relationship needs, a couple will learn to effectively communicate with one another in order to rebuild the relationship.

“To ensure a healthy relationship, first and foremost is

Part-time help wanted Apply in person at Greyhound Bus Station Between 8am & 10:30am 1000 12th Street

(936) 295-3732

page 1

Midnight Mayhem will also give students an opportunity to win numerous prizes throughout the night; as everyone will receive two free raffle tickets upon entry. Ten people will have their tickets drawn randomly to participate in a halfcourt basketball shot contest for the chance to win $500 cash.

“There will be free Tshirts given out all night as well as larger prizes, such as Nintendo Wii systems, IPods, along with many other

communication. People tend not to talk about things to avoid confrontation, but the sooner you talk about concerns the better,” said Miller.

Also offered at the Counseling Center is individual counseling for anything from test and speaker anxiety to emotional/physical abuse and coping with disabilities.

Counseling at the center is completely confidential and no record of the personal meeting will be placed on any student’s file.

“We’re not going to force you to or ask you to talk about anything you don’t want to.

We will work at the pace you are comfortable with and will never talk to anyone about what is discussed,” said Miller.

The Counseling Center is located in the North Annex of

items,” said Shepperd.

The 2010 Midnight Mayhem is brought to SHSU by Recreational Sports along with Student Services and Health Services. Only current students will be admitted entry with a valid SHSU Bearkat One card.

All events will be held on the basketball courts and in multi-purpose rooms within the Recreational Sports Center, which will also be open for regular business as well.

“We will be throwing beads from the indoor track all night long to help celebrate Mardi Gras in our own way,” said Monk.

the Lee Drain Building next to the Farrington Building.

Students can make an appointment by stopping by or calling 936-294-1720. The Counseling Center’s business hours are Monday, Tuesday and Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Center is open later on Tuesday and Wednesday until 7 p.m. If you are not comfortable going to the center they are more than willing to talk to you over the phone.

For more information, contact the Counseling Center at 936.294.1720 or

visit

http://www.

shsu.edu/~counsel/.

Live where u live

COOL

L O F T S Huntsville Downtown

936-291-1466

Smithercompany. com

Page 4 The Houstonian

NATION & WORLD

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Space shuttle blasts off on last night flight

fuel tank, but none appeared to strike the shuttle, officials The Associated Press said.

The 13-day mission comes C A P E at an agonizing time for CANAVERAL, Fla. NASA. Exactly one week (AP) — Endeavour and ago, the space agency finally six astronauts rocketed got its marching orders from into orbit Monday on President Barack Obama: what’s likely the last Ditch the back-to-the-moon nighttime launch for Constellation program and the shuttle program, its Ares rockets, and pack hauling a new room and on the research for an asobservation deck for yet-unspecified rocket and the International Space destination.

Station.

NASA’s boss, ex-astronaut The space shuttle Charles Bolden, favors took flight before Mars. But he, too, is waiting dawn, igniting the sky to hear how everything will with a brilliant flash play out. seen for miles around.

The space station came The weather finally out a winner in the Obama cooperated: Thick, low plan. The president’s budget clouds that had delayed would keep the outpost Photo courtesy of Terry Renna | The Associated Press a first launch attempt flying until at least 2020, a “Space Shuttle Endeavour lifts-off from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral. Endeavour's six memSunday returned, but ber crew will deliver a large room with a cupola to the International Space Station” major extension. then cleared away just The spectacle of the night in time. launch illuminating the sky NASA began fueling results of the game,” he said attracted a crowd, including “Looks like the weather of liftoff. The shuttle is set to arrive at the station early Endeavour on Sunday night with a smile. came together tonight,” some members of Congress, just as the Super Bowl was The coin used in the federal big shots and launch director Mike Wednesday.

Zamka and his crew kicking off to the south in opening toss flew to the European space leaders.

Leinbach told the astronauts right before liftoff. “It’s time will deliver and install Miami. The shuttle crew did space station in November, Endeavour shot through Tranquility, a new room that not watch the game — neither aboard Atlantis. to go fly.” some thin clouds on its way Monday morning’s into orbit, and its bright flame “We’ll see you in a couple will eventually house life- did the launch team — but it support equipment, exercise was beamed up to the space countdown ended up being was visible from the launch weeks,” replied commander George Zamka. He repeated: machines and a toilet, as well station in case anyone there uneventful, except for a last- site for seven minutes. By as a seven-windowed dome. wanted to watch it. minute run to the launch pad. then, the shuttle already was “It’s time to go fly.”

Endeavour’s launch also Astronaut Stephen Robinson up near Cape Hatteras, N.C., There are just four more The lookout has the biggest missions scheduled this window ever sent into space, was broadcast to the space forgot the binder holding all said Leinbach. station residents, who got his flight data files, and the year before the shuttles are a circle 31 inches across.

“We’re going to cherish It will be the last major to watch it live. Launch emergency red team had to this,” he said at the retired.

“For the last night launch, construction job at the space manager Mike Moses said rush it out to him, just before traditional post-launch news it treated us well,” Leinbach station. No more big pieces he got “evil glares” in the he climbed aboard. The conference. like that are left to fly. control center for making his launch team couldn’t resist said.

Within 15 minutes of Both the new room and team report to work on Super some gentle teasing.

Endeavour’s destination taking off, the astronauts A quick look at the launch were enjoying “a beautiful — the space station, home dome — together exceeding Bowl night. He noted that $400 million — were the shuttle’s fuel tank was video showed a couple pieces sunrise” from orbit, with the to five men — was soaring over Romania at the time supplied by the European made in New Orleans. “They of foam insulation breaking moon as a backdrop. “Wish Space Agency. were at least happy with the off Endeavour’s external

By Marcia Dunn

From COSTS Page 1

Director of Information Resources-- Client Support, Nancy Leavell, said that it’s important to update the website because it is the front door to our campus.

“Since September 2009, SHSU has had over [75 percent] of a million unique visitors to the site.”

Leavell also said that the site is routinely changed every one to two years.

“Creating a fresh feel is always appealing, and

with more sophisticated browsers, the ability to provide a vibrant site has become more possible.”

The new design will cost the university approximately $140,000.

“Stamats, a national leader in marketing and web designs for colleges and universities, conducted the project,” said Holmes.

“Their process included visits to the campus to meet with constituent groups to ascertain their wants, needs, and ideas.” Stamats was one of eight bidders for the project, and significantly

below the highest bid (approximately $270,000).

Stamats developed several designs for the new website which were then shown to various university groups for discussion and input. After a design was chosen, it was presented at the annual faculty and staff meeting at the beginning of the Fall Semester for approval. “From that point, our university’s computer services team has been working with university colleges and departments on implementation,” said Holmes.

From CENSUS Page 1

The hiring process is fairly simple. Every applicant is required to take a 28 question, multiple-choice test, timed at 30 minutes. According to the phone line, this test consists of ‘math, reading, following instructions, and map-reading questions’. Typically, 4 out of 5 applicants pass the test on the first try, but the test can be taken at a later date, if necessary. A practice test is also available from the local census office. Testing

for Sam Houston students is available at the AB-4 building.

Once the test is complete, a representative from the local census office will contact you and conduct an interview over the phone. If all goes well, they may extend an offer for temporary employment, which usually lasts several weeks. The government is currently recruiting thousands of census takers, or enumerators, based on the needs of the area. As an enumerator, you will go doorto-door through the community, interviewing residents,

you could be here,” Zamka called down.

The four remaining shuttle flights to the station — in March, May, July and September — have daytime departures, at least for now.

A significant delay could bump any of the launches into darkness. NASA has Obama’s permission to bump a mission or two into 2011 if safety needs arise.

Given all the changes coming, the mood around the launching site was bittersweet.

The manager in charge of preparing Endeavour for launch, Dana Hutcherson, said everyone was excited to be part of the first launch of the new year.

“But let’s face it, our KSC (Kennedy) team is going to have a challenging year ahead of us as the space shuttle is ending,” she said.

“It’s not going to be easy for us.”

Three spacewalks are planned during Endeavour’s flight to hook up the new station compartments, beginning Thursday. The shuttle crew — five men and one woman, all Americans — will team up with the station residents to get the job done. Aboard the station are two Americans, two Russians and one Japanese.

Bolden sees that same blend of nations in NASA’s future exploration efforts, whatever they are.

typically during the evening hours or on weekends when most residents are at home.

The position pays well.

Training is paid for, and the hourly rate for the Conroe office starts at $13.75. Enumerators are also reimbursed per mile, or for public transportation costs.

If interested, hurry up and apply, as most hiring will take place from February through May 2010. For more information, call, go online, or visit the booth on the mall in front of the Lowman Student Center

Ag Secretary pushes school nutrition plan WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration will ask Congress to improve childhood nutrition by ridding school vending machines of sugary snacks and drinks and giving school lunch and breakfast to more kids.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said the administration will seek changes when Congress overhauls the Childhood Nutrition Act. “Our children deserve better nutrition, and our country’s better and brighter future depends on it,” Vilsack said.

“And with the reauthorization of the Childhood Nutrition Act scheduled this year, there won’t be a better time than now to act boldly.”

Vilsack’s comments were in a speech he was to deliver Monday, outlining the administration’s goals for school nutrition. His appearance was canceled because of snow.

The Associated Press obtained excerpts of the speech, which outlines changes the administration plans to seek in the Childhood Nutrition Act. A Vilsack spokesman said the speech would be rescheduled.

Child nutrition and obesity have emerged as key issues for the Obama administration.

First Lady Michelle Obama plans to launch a campaign against childhood obesity on Tuesday.

Vilsack outlined changes that

Teen crashes car into school, drives down hall SHORELINE, Wash.

(AP) — Sheriff’s deputies said a 17-year-old boy crashed his parents’ car through the doors of Shorecrest High School in Shoreline, then drove it down the hall. The car finally stopped 75 yards later when it hit a security office. Two school workers were still on the property and heard the crash.

Police found the teen

on school grounds about an hour and a half after the crash late Friday night. He was taken into custody and then brought to Harborview Medical Center for a mental evaluation. Investigators said they do not believe drugs or alcohol played a role.

The boy, from Lake Forest Park, is a student at the school. He was not injured.

Police: Man tries to buy crack with credit card FLINT, Mich. (AP) — Authorities said a man accused of stealing a car then reporting it stolen remains in custody after telling police he was robbed at gunpoint while trying to buy crack cocaine with a credit card. The Flint Journal said the man reported Thursday night that a 2003 Chevy Malibu had been stolen.

Police reports

indicated the vehicle was previously stolen out of Lapeer, about 50 miles north-northwest of Detroit.

The suspect is being lodged at the Genesee County Jail.

No further details were released.

-Information from: The Flint Journal, http:// www.mlive.com/flint

include a push to jettison cookies, cakes, pastries and salty food from school vending machines and cafeteria lines. Vilsack says schools need to help kids eat more whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

“Food served in vending machines and the a la carte line shouldn’t undermine our efforts to enhance the health of the school environment,” he said. “We must have the capacity to set standards for all the foods served and sold in schools.”

The administration also wants to enroll more kids in school lunch programs and boost the number of schools offering breakfast. Vilsack said the ad-

ministration would also push for bigger reimbursements for schools serving breakfast.

In addition, the administration is seeking to link local farmers with school cafeterias and improve parent and student education about nutrition.

Lawmakers from both parties have expressed interest child nutrition. Georgia Sen. Saxby Chambliss, senior Republican on the Senate Agriculture Committee, met last week with Mrs. Obama to discuss the issue. Sen. Blanche Lincoln, D-Ark., chairwoman of the committee, is expected to bring up reauthorization for the Childhood Nutrition Act in the coming weeks.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Rep. John Murtha, the tall, gruff-mannered former Marine who became the de facto voice of veterans on Capitol Hill and later an outspoken and influential critic of the Iraq War, died Monday. He was 77.

Prosecutors: Texas teen used arrow to kill woman

By Paul J. Weber

The Associated Press

VICTORIA, Texas (AP) — A teenager living next door killed the founder of a popular San Antonio restaurant with an arrow before setting her house ablaze and bankrolling a spending spree on her credit cards, prosecutors told a jury Monday.

Joe Estrada Jr. pleaded not guilty, then listened as Bexar County prosecutors laid out how the 19-year-old allegedly killed the matriarch of the busy Los Barrios restaurant in San Antonio in 2008 and then brashly flaunted her stolen money and car around town.

Viola Barrios, who was born in Mexico and opened Los Barrios in 1979, was found dead with an arrowhead lodged in her skull. Pros-

ecutors say Estrada killed his 76-year-old neighbor before stealing her silver Mercedes and credit cards.

Bexar County assistant district attorney Tamara Strauch recounted to jurors how Estrada, hours after Barrios was killed, allegedly bragged about his new car while getting his hair cut and highlighted at an upscale shopping mall.

“He said, ‘Hey Ricky, what do you drive?’” Strauch said Barrios told a hairstylist before pulling out a set of keys. “’I drive a Mercedes.’”

Patrick Hancock, Estrada’s attorney, postponed making an opening statement to jurors until later in the trial.

Estrada was 18 when he was arrested.

Bexar County District Attorney Susan Reed said the trial will likely take several weeks, with the state ex-

pected to trot out witnesses into next week. The trial was moved about 120 miles away to Victoria because of intense media coverage.

Nestled well north of the more touristy River Walk, Los Barrios grew into a landmark adored by locals and in-the-know out-of-towners.

In 2004, the family opened a second restaurant, La Hacienda de los Barrios, near the city’s wealthy northern suburbs.

Diana Barrios Trevino, Viola’s daughter, wrote a family cookbook and has appeared on the Food Network and on ABC’s “Good Morning America” with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. She testified that her mother, despite getting older, was in good health and still involved in the restaurant.

“She opened and closed.

She always served (custom-

ers) with grace,” Barrios Trevino said.

According to prosecutors, Estrada broke into the home in April 2008 through one of the few windows not protected by burglar bars. Gasoline was used to a fuel a fire, Strauch said.

Prosecutors say Estrada then embarked on a day long spending spree. He allegedly used two of Barrios’ credit cards to buy a shirt at a designer store, around $800 in electronics, a cell phone and to get his hair styled.

After Estrada’s arrest, Strauch said he kept repeating, “I’m sorry. I did it.”

Prosecutors say Estrada’s family lived next door to Barrios for several years. Barrios had sold her home and was scheduled to move out less than two weeks before she died.

FOR SALE HURRY -- Limited supply! $699 Sectional with FREE ottoman -- 6 colors to choose from.

Call before they’re gone.

Call today. 936-291-9600

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

ENTERTAINMENT

At the Movies with Kevin: The Blind Side shows hope in the face of despair Kevin Jukkola

Entertainment Editor

Many critics have been under the misconception that “The Blind Side” primarily tells the story of a black youth saved by a virtuous white woman simply because she is a decent person.

Since the film is actually about a wealthy individual giving care and aid to an impoverished one, this view is a complete misreading of its emphasis. In a way, “The Blind Side” could be seen as a call to action for those with means to assist people who are less fortunate.

Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) was a freakish athletic specimen who was homeless and virtually hopeless before he met Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock), a woman whose authority over her family overwhelms her husband, Sean (Tim McGraw). Michael attends the same private Christian school as their children, Collins (Lily Collins) and S.J. (Jae Head), and tends to stand out because of both his race and massive size. The film does an admirable job of illustrating the ascension of Michael’s optimism first through his academic progress, rather than simply tying this in with his athletic prowess.

“The Blind Side” also ignores all of the sports clichés by not allowing the championship to become the climax of the story.

Michael would have been fine if he had never won a state championship, played football in college, or been selected in the first round of the NFL draft because he finally had someone who loved him. Also, there is never a moment where Michael feels completely vulnerable enough to open up about his past. The childhood wounds are too deep and will always be with him, and he doesn’t want to relive these memories or inflict their pain upon anyone else.

The film does a decent job of acknowledging the racial tension within the story without highlighting it. Coach Burt Cotton (Ray McKinnon) wants Michael for athletics, but uses Christian values as the reason for acceptance into the school. This is a realistic depiction of coaches who will do anything necessary to improve their athletic programs, especially when it comes to the use of black youth. This doesn’t necessarily make them bad people, but more like practical individuals who see these kids as assets that could help them retain or

Coaching him up. Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock) tties to teach Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) the importance of his position in “The Blind Side”.

improve their jobs.

Although Michael’s race is not ignored, it does not play a significant role in affecting his assimilation into the family, but still provides for disparaging remarks within parts of the community. “You’re already a suspect when you’re born black,” a friend once told me. The people among the white fiscal elites portrayed in “The Blind Side” would probably agree with this statement, even if they wouldn’t necessarily say it. The film might be a little too obvious in how depicts this racial dynamic because usually there are code words or phrases to express displeasure about the presence of people of certain races. Many of the people with this mind-set have never even spoken at length with individuals of other races because the knowledge gathered from these conversations might make their ignorance seem futile. Bars and clubs promote this subtle form of racism through their dress codes that have little to do with keeping undesirable individuals out than to prevent black people from entering their establishments.

Bullock does not depict Leigh Anne as a saint, showing racist attitudes that briefly surface only to continuously fall off her when she doesn’t notice.

Her ability to provide a loving environment for Michael is only made possible because of her immense wealth, instead of simply the kindness in her heart. Basically, “The Blind Side” is saying that Michael was lucky to find a woman that had the time to devote and the willingness to use it on him. There are more kids like him out there. Let’s just hope they find the love that inspires them to walk away from a dour despair and into a spiritual prosperity.

Contest Winner Ricky Lee Hodges

Contest Question: What are the names of Mayday Parade’s and Rocket to the Moon’s first albums?

Contest Answer: “A Lesson in Romantics” and “On Your Side”

The Blind Side

Stars: * * * Grade: B Running Time: 128 min.

MPAA: Rated PG-13 for a scene involving brief violence, drug and sexual references.

Cast: Sandra Bullock (Leigh Anne Tuohy), Tim McGraw (Sean Tuohy), Quinton Aaron (Michael Oher), Jae Head (S.J. Tuohy), Lily Collins (Collins Tuohy), Ray McKinnon (Coach Burt Cotton), Kim Dickens (Mrs. Boswell), Kathy Bates (Miss Sue).

Written and directed by John Lee Hancock.

Based on the novel by Michael Lewis.

The Houstonian, Page 5

Chorale to Span Five Centuries During Performance The SHSU Chorale will give local audiences a preview on Tuesday, February 9 of performances the group will soon give in San Antonio and Denver.

The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Huntsville.

The program will feature the chorale singing works that span more than 500 years, including works by English Renaissance composers William Byrd and John Taverner; German Romantic composer Johannes Brahms; 20th century English composers Benjamin Britten and William Walton; American composer Morten Lauridsen; and American folk songs “Beautiful Dreamer” and “Ezekiel Saw de Wheel.”

The SHSU Chorale, “the university’s premiere choral ensemble,” will take their performance on the road this month, with invitations to perform at both the Texas Music Educators Association convention in San Antonio and the American Choral Directors Association convention in Denver, according to Allen Hightower, director of choral activities.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens, children and non-SHSU students.

For more information, call the School of Music at 936.294.1360.

SPORTS

Page 6 The Houstonian

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Crazy eights!

The Bearkats edge the Sugar Bears, 75-70, increasing their win streak to eight games.

Lotis Butchko Senior Editor

For the second game in a row the Bearkats struggled to finish the game on top, barely beating Central Arkansas Saturday night by the score of 75 to 70.

The victory increased SHSU’s winning streak to eight games in a row. The Bearkats improved to 8-0 in the Southland Conference and 16-5 overall.

The Bearkats struggled early as the Sugar Bears were able to make shots that magically made it into the basket.

“They were making a lot of shots they normally don’t make,” said Head Coach Bob Marlin.

The Bearkats raced back from a five point deficit as they exchanged leads with the Sugar Bears.

Both teams never seemed to get on a roll and instead just exchanged baskets.

“Basketball is a game of runs,” Josten Crow said. “You just have to weather the storm, but that didn’t happen tonight.”

The Bearkats biggest lead in the first half was 10 points after 13 minutes of play when Preston Brown hit a lay up. The Sugar Bears were able to close the gap to five to finish out

the first half.

“We didn’t run our offense,” said Brown.

“And they hit their shots.”

Brown, who started for the Bearkats, was a key addition in the game. He added 13 points, 10 of which were in the first half.

“I shot pretty good,” Brown said. “I have been coming in and shooting extra, and it showed.”

The second half started rough for the Bearkats.

SHSU went 0-8 and Central Arkansas’ Mitch Rueter was able to add offense and take the lead from Sam Houston.

Rueter, who scored 31 on the night, was a constant thorn in the Bearkats side as he continually hit every shot.

The Bearkats worked hard to get the lead back and finally were able to seal the game when they took the lead and held on with just seven minutes left in the game.

Brown finished the game with 10 points as well adding a double-double to his list of achievements this semester.

“We are just taking it game by game,” said Crow.

SHSU basketball will be back in action Wednesday as the Bearkats travel to Thibodaux, Louisiana to play conference foe Nicholls on the road.

The Bearkats look to improve to 9-0 in the SLC and 17-5 overall.

Southland Conference Standings Men’s Basketball East Division Stephen F. Austin Southeastern Louisiana McNeese State Nicholls Northwestern State Central Arkansas

SLC 6-3 5-4 3-5 3-6 2-6 1-8

West Division

Sam Houston State

Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Lamar Texas State UT-Arlington UTSA

8-0

6-2 5-4 5-4 4-4 3-5

Overall 16-6 13-9 8-14 7-15 7-14 7-16

16-5

12-10 13-11 11-12 12-9 13-8

SHSU places 23rd in mid-major top 25 poll The Bearkats men’s basketball team has ranked on the CollegeInsider. com’s mid-major top 25 poll at 23rd with 133 points. This marks SHSU’s first appearance on the poll this season.

Record Points 1. Butler 20-4 761 2. Northern Iowa 21-2 739 3. Gonzaga 19-4 712 4. Cornell 20-3 679 5. Siena 20-4 649 ...

20.William & Mary 17-7 166 22. IUPUI 17-8 156

23. Sam Houston 24. Iona 25. Weber State

16-5

18-7 15-8

133 128 120

John Rudolph | The Houstonian

BALANCE ON OFFENSE. Corey Allmond, who scored 13 points and dished out two assists, was one of five Bearkats in double figures in the home conference victory over Central Arkansas.

Bearkat athletes score high in the classroom

While SHSU’s athletes are reaching accomplishments in the arena, they are also achieving goals in the classroom.

Brandon Scott Sports Reporter

Last semester, Bearkat student-athletes produced an overall grade point average of 2.9, for the sixth time in the last seven semesters. The Southland Conference Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll named

79 Bearkats for the fall semester, including members of the football, volleyball, soccer and cross country teams.

Four clubs produced a GPA of 3.2 or higher. SHSU tennis was the top team with a 3.52 GPA, followed by women’s golf (3.29), soccer (3.23) and softball (3.2). Athletic Director

Graphic by Jared Wolf | The Houstonian

Bobby Williams and Chris Thompson, associate athletic director for student services, announced the academic success last Friday.

“Give the credit for our academic success to our outstanding student-athletes and our coaching staff who recruit such quality young men and women,” Williams said.

“We take as much pride in our student-athletes’ performances in the classroom as their accomplishments in the arena.

Each year these young men and women seem to raise the bar for themselves. Chris Thompson and her staff in academics do a great job each year coordinating our student-athletes’ efforts in the classroom.”

Student-athletes with 4.0 fall semester GPAs included Beau Willis (men’s golf), Brandon Kimbrel and Doug Oney (baseball), Amanda Lindsey (softball), Anna Ferguson and Rebecca Swann (volleyball), Fedrerica Denti (tennis), Stephanie Reed, Blake Woolums and Jenny Zoch (track and field) and Jordan Bowersox and Colby Lange (football).

The academic program’s GPA is higher than the Sam Houston State overall student population GPA. Senior offensive lineman R.C. Fairfield was one of three Bearkats to record a perfect 4.0 GPA during their college careers. Fairfield spoke on his experience as a student-athlete.

“Playing football takes up so much time,” Fairfield said. “It helps students to become more disciplined. Now that I’m done with football, I can focus on school.

“I spend a lot of time at the athletic student center and they help us out a lot. Those who actually have questions have a good structure.”

Jared Wolf | The Houstonian

The Bearkats men’s basketball team is making noise in the nation and looks to maintain excellence.

Kats climb RPI rankings Paul Ridings

Sports Information

After two more victories last week, Sam Houston has climbed from No. 77 to No. 76 in the NCAA Division I men’s basketball RPI rankings. The latest RPI was announced Monday afternoon.

The Bearkats stand 16-5 for the year and are unbeaten 8-0 in Southland Conference play. Sam Houston also produced non-conference victories over Auburn, Oral Roberts and Rider and played No. 4 Kentucky to within 10 points at Rupp Arena.

Sam Houston ranks immediately behind Memphis and Oklahoma and ahead of high profile teams such as Arizona State, New Mexico State and North Carolina.

RPI stands for “Rating Percentage Index” and is an important figure used for selection to the NCAA tournament since it reflects a team’s overall record and

strength of schedule.

Sam Houston’s highest final season RPI in its 23 years at the NCAA Division I level was No. 91 in 2003, the year the Bearkats last won the Southland Conference championship and advanced to the NCAA event.

With 16 victories and eight more regular season games to play, Sam Houston is zeroing in on its fourth 20-victory season in the last five years.

Out of the 317 teams in NCAA Division I men’s basketball, only 66 universities have posted 20 or more wins three of the last four years. With an 8439 record in the 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 seasons, Sam Houston owns the 36th best winning percentage among those 66 squads.

“Right now, our focus is on our next opponent Nicholls State,” Sam Houston head coach Bob Marlin said.

“We’ve experienced some success this year, but we still have a long road ahead

of us. This team consists of a great group of guys who work hard, are getting better defensively and have good chemistry. They’re a great group to coach.”

Also announced Monday were the latest NCAA team and individual statistics rankings.

Sam Houston State leads Division I men’s basketball in assists per game (20.6), is second in assist/turnover ratio (1.62) and 14th in three-point field goals per game (8.5).

Corey Allmond, Sam Houston’s top scorer, stands No. 14 nationally in three point field goals per game (3.1) and 26th in three-point field goal percentage (.414).

Josten Crow stands No. 4 in individual assist/turnover ratio (3.2).

Sam Houston travels to play Nicholls at Thibodaux, LA, on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., then will play host to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Saturday at 7 p.m. at Johnson Coliseum.