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By Meagan Ellsworth Editor-in-Chief
The public could be drinking unhealthy water, possibly linked to cancer and developmental toxicity among other health risks. While Huntsville’s foul odor was reported as an algal boom in August 2009, as many as 14 contaminants and pollutants were found in the city’s supply from 1998-2003, for a population of 35,078 people. The EWG’s investigation revealed, “By failing to set tap water safety standards expeditiously or require and fund comprehensive testing, EPA allows widespread exposures to chemical mixtures posing unknown risks to human health.” The investigation continued on to reveal “of the 141 unregulated contaminants utilities detected in water supplies between 1998 and 2003, 52 are linked to cancer, 41 to reproductive toxicity, 36 to developmental toxicity, and 16 to immune system damage, according to chemical listings in seven standard government and industry toxicity references.
Despite the potential health risks, any concentration of these chemicals in tap water is legal, no matter how high. Texas was among the top 10 states with the most drinkingwater contamination according to the EWG’s studies. Maria Gerling of Huntsville wrote a column to the Huntsville Item on April 7, 2010 to share her concern with the use of chloramine to treat Huntsville’s tap water. “Its vapors are toxic to people who inhale them while bathing or showering,” Gerling said. The solution would be to discontinue adding Chloramine to the water. Many of us would be willing to pay a little extra in order to have a better water supply.” The Texas Research Institute for Environmental Studies Analytical Laboratory Operations Manager at SHSU, Rachelle Smith said chloramine can be toxic to inhale or use for water treatment. “It could because you could be getting chlorine gas,” Smith, said. Robert Stevens, Assistant Southern Region Manager said there is not an alternative
treatment and that chloramine is the alternative to chlorine treatment. “No, we can’t go back to the straight chlorine because it will convert the precursor organics into Trihalomethanes,” Stevens said. I don’t think there is any scientific proof that chloramines create any problems in inhaling it. “Yes, there could be an environmental and hazardous problem with the chloramines,” Smith said. ““My personal opinion would be to look at another alternative. However, if one of the alternatives is to use something more dangerous than what they are using right now then that’s not really a good alternative.” Stevens said the grand total expense was about $4.5 million last year for the treatment of Tap Water in Huntsville with about $3.1 million in operation and maintenance expenses to treat the water and deliver it to the city.
Did you know pharmaceutical products are changing the sex of fish?
Huntsville’s water supply flows from seven wells owned and operated by the city and from the Huntsville Regional Water Supply System, owned and operated by the Trinity River Authority of Texas. According to the Environmental Working Group’s past evaluation of Huntsville “health effects or target organs of the contaminants found included Cardiovascular or Blood Toxicity, Cancer, Developmental Toxicity, Endocrine Toxicity, Kidney Toxicity, Gastrointestinal or Liver Toxicity, Neurotoxicity, Reproductive Toxicity, and Respiratory Toxicity”. The 2009 Water Quality Report for the City of Huntsville, available on the city council’s website, includes a “special notice for the ELDERLY, INFANTS, CANCER PATIENTS, those with HIV/AIDS or other immune problems. The notice explains how this specific population is more susceptible to infections from drinking water contaminants such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia; microscopic parasites affecting the digestive tracks of humans and animals.
— See WATER, page 3
Man of the hour Campus and community turns out for the chance to say a personal farewell to retiring university President of nine years James F. Gaertner By Mike Silva Sports Reporter A farewell event in honor of President James F. Gaertner was held on Wednesday in the Bearkat Plaza, where students, faculty, and alumni came together to show their appreciation before his retirement to come in August. Foods, refreshments, and the sounds of the live music of the music department’s Steel Drum Band created the celebratory environment for Gaertner’s time and contributions to SHSU. “We wanted to have create a casual, fun, festive, celebratory atmosphere between faculty, staff, and students for President Gaertner’s farewell, and that’s what came about,” Maggie Collum, director of University Events, said. “We also thought it was important for a student to be the emcee because students are what out university is all about.” — See GAERTNER, page 3
Joe Buvid | The Houstonian
FOND FAREWELL. SHSU President James. F. Gaertner and his wife Nancy were honored by the university on Wednesday from 3-5 p.m. in the Bearkat Plaza. Gaertner announced his retirement in the Fall of 2009 and is expected to say goodbye this upcoming August. He has served as SHSU’s president for about 9 years.
TreeHouseRock Huntsville’s Bone House builder, Dan Phillips to school students on sustainable skills in his course during the fall semester. By Alyssa Dupree Contributing Writer With the “Green Movement” sweeping the globe, Huntsville residents may not realize that they have a pioneer living and building in their own backyard. However, Dan Phillips has been building houses using recycled material since 1998, when he established Phoenix Commotion with his wife Marsha. “Dan has been interested in sustainable building all of his life,” said Kristie Stevens, the Administrative Director of Phoenix Commotion. “He believes that building is in everyone's DNA.” Phillips hopes to help find the builder in us all with a new course that will be offered at SHSU in the fall, which will
revolve around teaching students how to live more sustainably. “The related activities require you to think in a way that you might not otherwise. If you don't normally cook, it might be a shock that it's substantially cheaper to make your food from scratch, not to mention the health benefits,” Stevens said. Students interested in enrolling in the class should be aware that, although the class has a four paper requirement, Phillips still expects students to be mindful of what they use. The first three papers are not allowed to be longer than two pages, including a bibliography.
— See GREEN, page 3
Kristie Stevens | Phoenix Commotion
MODERN DAY PIONEERS. The houses built by Phoenix Commotion are 80% reclaimed and recycled materials, including – but not limited to – Red Cedar, Long Leaf Pine, wine corks, bottle caps and mosaic tiles. Dan Phillips has been using recycled material since 1998.
The History of Earth Day By Malissa Peek Contributing Writer Environmental issues are a growing concern for the United States and the world. Constantly bombarded with “Go Green” campaigns, products and even produce, many are unaware that environmental struggles have been in the limelight as early as the 1970’s. According to About.com, newspaper publisher and community activist John McConnell suggested at a UNESCO Conference in 1969 that a national day be set to remind people of their environmental responsibilities. He chose March 21 because it is the vernal equinox. The vernal equinox is the first day of autumn in the southern hemisphere and the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere. It is also the only day when days and nights are the same length everywhere on earth. On February 26, 1971, U.N. Secretary General U Thant signed a proclamation stating that international Earth Day would be celebrated annually on the vernal equinox. Just a month later the April 22 Earth Day many Americans have come to know evolved through the efforts of environmental activist and U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson. He felt there was an unrecognized public support for environmental issues, so he used this day to promote environmental activism and education. Nelson’s 1970 efforts paved the way for many environmental laws we still abide by today, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act. Also, the Environmental Protection Agency was created just three years later. No matter how many “Go Green” campaigns there are or how much each individual recycles, the message of Earth Day will continue to spark major debate. The underlying fact remains these issues are not a new phenomenon. “I think if everyone thought about their personal responsibility in helping our world we would be in a much better, healthier place as an economy,” said self-proclaimed-semitree-hugger Kristin Casso. The slogan attributed to Earth Day is “think globally, act locally.” For more information on ways you can become involved locally stop by a GreenKats meeting the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 12:30 in room 327 of the LSC.
VIEWPOINTS
Page 2 The Houstonian
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Earth Day Edition
The E arth Day duality Meagan Ducic shares what she likes and
dislikes about the “going green” movement. My feelings about the green movement have always been something I can’t quite nail down. My love-hate relationship with the widely promoted idea leaves me with the belief that, as with most things, the truth is to be found somewhere in the middle. One thing I have found to be quite nice about the concept is that many places ask if you want a receipt after a purchase. I assume this is an effort to cut down on the use of—and cost of—paper goods, and, I have to say, I like it. Debit transactions usually show up on my online statement almost immediately anyway, and if I pay with cash, I don’t need a receipt for most things. This has saved my beloved bags from being constantly littered with crumpled-up receipts that only serve to elicit a grumble of irritation from me as I fumble around for my Blistex. My favorite thing about America “going green” is
the use of paperless billing. I love avoiding a bombardment of dozens of statements, invoices and policy change notices in the mail. The paperwork situation in my den was getting serious; there was no room left to work and no time to
shift is the re-usable shopping bags at grocery stores. Sam’s Club doesn’t even offer bags to its customers; I don’t know if they claim to have environmental reasons for this, but I wouldn’t care even if they did. I’ve seen re-usable bags on sale at many other
“My
favorite thing about America “going green” is the use of paperless billing.” file everything away. Unless dealt with everyday, it was unmanageable. Now, simply by clicking on the cute little green leaf icon, I can confirm my decision to go paperless, and consequently, take back my writing space. With both my purse and home office having undergone great improvements, I hate to rain on the green parade, but I must. The most annoying thing to me about this social
stores, and I think to myself, why spend the money to buy something that you are giving away for free six feet away? This echoes the debate over whether we should be paying for news content on the internet. Aside from the financial aspect, myself and many other people re-use shopping bags for various things ourselves. We use them to line waste baskets; pack up boxed leftovers for a friend, dou-
ble-wrap meat as it defrosts in the fridge…the list goes on. So, where does the majority of benefit go from the consumer spending even more money to buy their groceries? My guess would be the pocketbooks of CEOs. I love the earth, but stupid ideas are stupid ideas. No matter what they claim to support. Fewer receipts and paperless billing are both wonderful and do appear to support a greener way of life, which is phenomenal. But if I shop, you bag—it should be that simple. I truly hope to see the green movement succeed overall, but would like it to do so through valuable innovations that respect the current climate, to which most remain acclimated. Meagan Ducic is a reccuring columnist for The Houstonian. She is a Senior Print Journalism major, English minor.
Comics for thought
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 e-mail 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
The Facts About Recycling • Over 200 million gallons of used motor oil is disposed of into the environment. Most of the oil is poured down the drain, onto the ground, or just tossed in the garbage. It only takes one gallon of motor oil to contaminate one million gallons of drinking water. • Producing cars from recycled aluminum decreases air pollution by 95 percent. • Producing recycled paper produces 74 percent less air pollution, 35 percent less water pollution and uses 64 percent less energy than making paper from logs. A ton of paper made from recycled materials can save a total of over 500 pounds of air pollution. • A ton of paper made from recycled paper saves 17 trees. • Recycling all newspapers read in the United States each morning could save 41,000 trees a day. Recycling these newspapers would also reduce 6 million tons of waste in the landfills. • Junk mail accounts for the use of 1.5 trees per person per year. We could save about 75,000 trees for every 50,000 people who stop their junk mail.
Comic courtesy of comics.com
• A ton of paper manufactured from recycled paper can save about 4,000 kilowatt hours of energy. • One glass bottle or jar manufactured from recycled glass saves enough energy to power a 100 watt light bulb for four hours. • One pound of steel manufactured from recycled steel can power a 60-watt light bulb for over a day. • One year of aluminum production from recycled aluminum saves enough energy to power 18 million household for a year.
Comic courtesy of comics.com 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.
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Don’t go green, just go smart. Brittany Pires gives her advice on how to go about helping out with environmental problems. There is all this talk about going green and Earth Day; something about saving the planet and all that jazz. But all seriousness aside, what I would like to see is someone put out their cigarette butt in an ashtray, not the ground. I would also be absolutely thrilled if people would not constantly advertise on the windshield of my car with fliers, which all fly right off as soon as I drive away. When you walk out of a room, it is not difficult to shut off the lights or TV. Or here is a thought: when you leave for the day, you do not need to run the air conditioning at 71 where you like it when you sleep. It aggravates me how people are so environmentally conscious, and yet they cannot even keep themselves from selfishly running the water while
they brush their teeth. What about all those red cups that almost everyone uses for the “pong game.” They may say disposable, but that does not mean you have to dispose of them after each use. Not only are they expensive for a night you won’t remember, but it
but it is just lacking in plain common sense. It probably takes someone a maximum of 10 minutes to walk from point A to point B. If someone is that lazy that they feel the need to drive 1/16th of a mile to class, then they should not be in school. School is
“‘Going
Green’ is more than an economic statement to be advertised and used as a marketing tool.” is a waste of plastic that will most likely not be recycled. Try washing the cups; you know, with soap and water. That seems to do the trick, and you will never have to buy red cups again. Here is a question that boggles me: why do people who live on campus drive to their classes? Not only is that a bad save-the-planet technique,
about working hard for an education. That starts by using one’s legs. No one said, “Walk Forest, walk.” He was determined to run. So be like Forest and run— metaphorically. “Going Green” is more than an economic statement to be advertised and used as a marketing tool. It is a way of life to be incorporated in your everyday schedules.
I am not an environmentalist. I am not a reliable source. I do not have a “Go Green” bumper sticker on my car or on any other property I own. I am not even a student who does not go through at least three bottles of water a day. But I am a person who is careful of how much toilet paper I use. I turn my fan off when I leave in the morning. And I understand why it is important to do the bare minimum. So today is Earth Day. Hoorah for Earth. Have common sense to run through life, rather than walk. You never know when you might pay for your actions later on. “Run, Forest, Run.” Brittany Pires is the Production Manager for The Houstonian. She is a Sophomore Mass Communications major, Sociology minor.
CAMPUS
The Houstonian, Page 3
Growing
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Climate change calamity By Jake Pickard Contributing Writer
Joe Buvid | The Houstonian
By Jessica Priest Associate News Editor In 2007, SHSU alumnus Sara Massey began the first environmental organization at Sam Houston State University. Three years after its inception, the organization has failed to blossom into the environmental voice Massey set out for it to become. While it has undergone a facelift with changing its name from the Student Environmental Organization to GreenKats, the attendance for their general meetings remains the same, dismal at best. This past Monday’s meeting was no exception with only five members present. That didn’t seem to damper their spirits as all those involved seem enthusiastic about the upcoming Earth Day festivities, despite the fact that their bank account doesn’t want to cooperate. With only $80 to the organization’s name and limited man power, GreenKats president Melissa Stelter chose to scale back the events planned for a more humble approach: handing out informative literature in the Lowman Student Center Mall Area this Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. “We will have educational information available to students and we’ll also have a letter for students to sign (addressed to SHSU provost and vice president of academic affairs David E. Payne) in support of campus recycling,” Stelter said. And this, she believes, should suffice. Stelter, who is the only remaining member from last year, attributes the lack of participation in the group’s activities to a variety of factors. “It’s kind of difficult (for students to get involved) because we’re such a commuter campus and the (the community
at Sam Houston State University) is really not that receptive to environmental issues,” Stelter said. GreenKats faculty advisor and SHSU History professor Jeff Crane, PhD. has recognized the potential of the group from the beginning and continues to support their endeavors to combat the environmental apathy Stelter sees running rampant at SHSU. He agrees that students do tend to shy away from the serious issues. “Being a commuter college is part of the problem,” Crane said via e-mail. “I also believe that most SHSU students have little interest in environmental issues and are essentially ignorant of critical environmental issues.” “It isn’t necessarily fun to work on environmental issues and many students assume that environmental concern and work is inherently political and conflate environmental politics with extreme left politics. This might make some of them uncomfortable. But it also reveals an ignorance of the reality of environmental problems, the range of people involved, and the fact that many of these issues are not inherently associated with one political party or another,” Crane said. Next semester, SHSU GreenKats will fight for the student body’s focus. Stelter, who announced on Monday that she will step down as vice president to concentrate on her studies, hopes to hand the reigns over to another student willing to make a difference. One step that will aid them in this process is the installation of a new website. “Right now, we are trying to put together a website. It will be informative for students to learn more about the environment and ways they can participate and improve their daily habits,” Stelter said.
From GAERTNER page 1
The event began at 4 p.m. with a few words from emcee Daniel Pawlowski. He turned the stage to Walker County Judge Danny Pierce, who read a proclamation before President Gaertner and his wife were introduced to the crowd of more than a thousand people. “The crowd was a bit overwhelming,” the Gaertners said. “It was great to see the community come together for this event.” Following a brief statement on stage, the Gaertners proceeded to mingle with the students and anyone who wished to personally bid farewell to them. “I think the greatest thing about what Dr. Gaertner has done is that he has cared so much about this university,” Athletic Director Bobby Williams said. “When you look at all
From WATER page 1
Stevens said Chloramine cost about $50,000 or less. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has primacy over all drinking water regulations in the state of Texas and has had primacy since the inception of the Safe Drinking Water Act in the 70’s. Alicia Diehl, PhD, Team leader of drinking water quality for TCEQ in the public drinking water section of the water supply division said the city of Huntsville works well within the safe range for Chloramine. “Chloramine has been used successfully as a disinfectant since the early 1900’s,” Diehl said. “EPA did a really great
Overall, Stelter thinks that involvement in the SHSU GreenKats and concern of environmental issues is a worthwhile cause. “I think that by preserving our environment and making wise choices now we can all be successful in the long run,” Stelter said. The SHSU GreenKats will also show a film entitled “Rivers of Waste” on Wednesday, April 28 at 6 p.m. The location for the presentation is still undetermined. The documentary, which Stelter says deals with feed lot waste and manure, will encourage students to think critically about environmental issues. “This documentary explores factory farms and their impact on the environment,” Crane said. “This is an issue that I have found students know nothing about. Factory farms are destructive not only of local and far-reaching ecosystems but also due great damage to small farms, small town economies, are inhumane and perpetuate problems with disease and over-reliance on medications for poultry and pigs that then, for example, contribute to increasing bacterial resistance to antibiotics, one of the major health problems of our era.” There will be no cost of admission and Stelter hopes to sell snacks during the film depending on the venue’s restrictions. The SHSU GreenKats meet the first and third Monday of every month in the Lowman Student Center Room 327 at 12:30 p.m. For more information, please visit their web site at https:// sites.google.com/site/shsuseo/home or contact SHSU GreenKats president Melissa Stelter via e-mail at MLS035@ shsu.edu to get involved.
the things he has accomplished, from facilities, to the atmosphere, and all of the things he changed, the fact that he made it so cool to care about Sam Houston and that he brought pride back to the university just gives you goosebumps.” With Gaertner’s retirement comes the search for his replacement in the fall. The feelings of the students is that this will not be a job easily fulfilled. “As far as I’m concerned, [President Gaertner] is the reason this university is where it is today,” Student Body President Ryan Bridges said. “I’m very sad to see him leave, but I’m very happy for him at the same time. He’s more than earned his retirement. I look forward to see who the next president will be, but I don’t know if anyone can fill his shoes.” “This event’s great. I really do like it. But I don’t think an event of any size can honor him enough.”
study they examined the potential health effects of both free chlorine and chloramines they found that human health effects for both free chlorine and chloramines were about 40 [mgpl].” The normal amount of chloramines that are in the city of Huntsville’s drinking water is about one to two Micrograms per liter. The Associated Press reported in March the EPA’s plans “tighten drinking water standards to impose stricter limits on four contaminants that can cause cancer. The TRA said they have not made those changes as Huntsville’s water did not detect the chemical compounds listed. “I pulled up the file and practically everything is below the detection limit,” Stevens said. “Even these [chemical
“By 2080, Texas is supposed to be as dry as the worst drought that we have ever had,” said Dr. Bruce McCarl, a professor of Agricultural Economics at Texas A&M. “Conditions are expected to mirror the Dust Bowl, but they may be a lot worse than that.” McCarl contributed research to “The Impact of Global Warming in Texas,” a book published with the intent of alerting Texans on the dangers of climate change and possible solutions. He wrote the book’s chapter covering Texas Agriculture. In this chapter, McCarl writes about how the rising temperature from climate change will alter the Texas water supply (notably precipitation), change Carbon Dioxide levels necessary in the growth of plants, and a rising sea level further inland. He sees this as a sign for a projected dryness. “The dryness will limit our ability to grow,” McCarl said. “We’ll have to change the way we treat landscapes. Huntsville will probably look more like San Antonio. Texas should be addressing climate change more than it is at the moment.” What can Texas do to prevent this dryness? “The Impact of Global Warming in Texas” offers some environmental and economical solutions, but Texas would have to make tremendous sacrifices to satisfy the Environmental Protection Agency’s regulations. “Texas is the largest energy state and the largest emitter of carbon dioxide in the United States,” McCarl said. “It’s obviously in their best short term interest to not have regulations on carbon dioxide.”
compounds] that have some amount was detection in all cases it was below the maximum contaminant level and that’s the limit that EPA puts on the drinking water for each of these constituents. Both the TRA and TCEQ assure consumers that Huntsville’s water supply is safe to drink. “Sure, we have an inspection each year by the state in addition to all the lab analysis that the state does and on site every year and they indicate to us that it’s safe .” Compared to the nation’s drinking water Diehl said that she would put Texas against any state in the union. “We’ve got a great program. I can’t say how proud I am to be in Texas and be apart of the drinking water program here,” Diehl said.
From GREEN page 1
The fourth paper, which will have no page limit, must be submitted to a publication. Field trips to a land fill, a farmer's market and Phillip’s recycled houses will also be included in the coursework. The Bone House, which is currently being rebuilt after it burned down in February, makes for lucky number 13. Students will also be required to choose five assignments to do throughout the semester, such as planting a tree, monitoring a dumpster, buying an entire outfit from the Good Shepard Mission and wearing it to class, as well as conducting various polls and surveys. “Reused is almost always a better choice than new. Dan says (that) every dollar you spend is a choice for either a sustainable lifestyle or a wasteful lifestyle." According to Stevens, the houses built by Phoenix Commotion are 80 percent reclaimed and recycled materials, including – but not limited to – Red Cedar, Long Leaf Pine, wine corks, bottle caps and mosaic tiles. “The only items we buy new are for plumbing and electrical,” she said. For now, Stevens urges students to try shopping at resale shops, as well as recycling all glass, paper, cardboard and plastic. “The next time you look out your window, appreciate
the beautiful scenery we have here in Huntsville. If we don't start managing our waste as individuals, you might look out one day and only see piles of garbage,” she said. While it may take adjusting, those enrolled in the course will learn how easy it
Texas Governor Rick Perry opposes the EPA’s “Endangerment Finding,” a program that decides if a certain location is producing excessive carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. Perry believes the EPA is operating outside its constitutional power, while stepping on the rights of Texans. “The EPA’s misguided plan paints a big target on the backs of Texas agriculture and energy producers and the hundreds of thousands of Texans they employ,” said Perry at a February press conference. Perry decided to appeal the EPA’s findings that greenhouse gases are harmful to human health in the hopes that their some of Texas’ largest industries will not have to change their business practices. “This legal action is being taken to protect the Texas economy and the jobs that go with it, as well as defend Texas’ freedom to continue our successful environmental strategies free from federal overreach,” Perry said. Perry’s strategy at discrediting the climate change findings are aimed at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a body formed by the United Nations to investigate climate change, and the primary source of evidence for the EPA. “We know that the IPCC cannot be relied upon for objective, unbiased science – so EPA should not rely upon it to reach a decision that will hurt small businesses, farmers, ranchers, and the larger Texas economy,” said Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott. When asked if Perry has a legitimate chance to disprove that greenhouse gases are harmful to human health, Dr. McCarl only said two words: “Not likely.” is to live more economically and environmentally friendly, as well as how wasteful one can be without realizing it. “It's not someone else's responsibility. Every person has to change their behavior if we're going to clean up our planet,” Stevens said.
Kristie Stevens | Phoenix Commotion
MULTI-COVERED MOSAIC: Huntsville’s own low-income
housing initiative, Phoenix Commotion, proved green is beautiful by using recycled bottle caps as flooring for the downstairs bedroom of the “Bone House.”
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Entreés for Earth Day
Wondering how to give back on Earth Day? Grab a bite to eat with the Bearkat Democrats on April 22 to help raise money for the World Wild Life Fund. The following businesses will donate a portion of their profits towards a fund that is actively working to protect and preserve the environment. • Judy’s Ice Cream • Humphrey’s • Archie’s Restaurant on the River • Tinsley’s Chicken ‘n Rolls For more information, please call Bearkat Democrats president Kendall Scudder at 903243-2555 or visit www. bearkatdemocrats.com
ENTERTAINMENT
Thursday, April 22, 2010
SHSU THEATRE
“RENT” fans sure to be pleased by newest production By Thomas Merka Web Editor
“RENT” is one of my all time favorite musicals, so when I heard that the SHSU Theatre Department was doing the show I was ecstatic. On Monday, I was fortunate enough to get to see a dress rehearsal of the show and, let me say, I was impressed. The show is not without its problems, but overall I feel that the production was a good, solid performance. The singing in this show is phenomenal, especially when the whole ensemble comes together. Seeing this show proved that our theatre and musical theatre departments have some truly talented students. One such student is Michael McClure, who plays the role of Mark. McClure has fantastic stage presence coupled with a voice that shook the rafters of the theatre. Watching the
show, I couldn’t help but think this actor was made to play the role of Mark. The show is very high energy and seldom has a slow scene, but the energy and fast pace of the show make some of the scenes seem hectic at times. Several times throughout the show it was hard to keep track of what all was happening because there was so much going on at once. The congestion on stage could have been caused by the “dress rehearsal jitters” or a timing issue, but, hopefully, the hectic scenes will be resolved by opening night. Now, let’s turn our attention to the technical aspects of the show. The set of the show is extravagant without being too gaudy or bulky. It provides a nice, grungy, urban feel and allows plenty of room for the actors to move about the stage freely. My favorite part of the set was
Joe Buvid | The Houstonian
Yelling about hardship. The characters in “RENT” are dealing with issues that plagued many individuals in the 1980’s.
the placement of the band during the show. They are under a platform and behind a chain-link fence, giving the feel of a garage band having a concert. The lighting in this production really brightened my day. During the opening song, the lighting gives the show the look and feel of a rock
Joe Buvid | The Houstonian “RENT”. The entire cast of the newest production had remarkable energy at their dress rehearsal Monday night.
concert, adding to the high energy level. The lighting also adds interest and keeps your attention focused on the show, particularly during the scenes that have the potential to be slow. The costumes in this play are also well designed. Mimi’s outfits are provocative and revealing, without being overly tacky, complementing her character perfectly. The only costume choice I don’t understand are Roger’s pajama pants that he sports for half the show. Overall, I would say that this production is yet another success for SHSU’s Theatre Department. I thoroughly enjoyed the show, but I will offer a bit of warning; this show does include adult content, strong adult language and partial nudity. If you are easily offended by any of these, this show is probably not for you. But for the many “RENT” fans out there, you are sure to be thoroughly pleased with the production.
The Houstonian, Page 5
GREEN SPOT
Greener pastures for S u b Po p R e c o r d s By James Ashworth Contributing Writer In 2006, Sub Pop Records made the decision to go 100% green, setting a standard for other record labels to follow. Sub Pop, famous for being home to Mudhoney, Nirvana, the Shins, Iron & Wine, and more recently Fleet Foxes, decided to go green because of the positive influence it has on their artists and fan base. The record label formed a partnership with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF), an organization dedicated to “transforming the relationship between humans and the earth’s energy and water resources.” The BEF was founded in 1998 in Portland, Oregon. As a non-profit organization, they market environmentally friendly solutions to businesses, utility providers, and government agencies. The BEF also issues Green Tags, which is used to designate the amount of renewable energy a business uses. These certificates can be bought by businesses to offset fossil fuel use. The BEF takes profits from Green Tag sales and invests them in renewable energy industries, such as wind, hydropower, solar energy, and bio-fuels. In an interview with Kotori Magazine, Sub Pop founder Jonathan Poneman said, “I was made aware of the program by one of my co-workers. I was, quite frankly, shocked by how easy it is to support renewable energy. Green Tags are a simple way for anyone to choose wind energy, which, in turn, lowers dependence on burning fossil fuels for energy.” According to the BEF website, each Green Tag represents “one megawatt hour (MWh) of renewable electricity generated and delivered to the power grid. Use BEF renewable energy certificates to offset the carbon emissions from your business’ electricity use.” Besides Sub Pop Records, Minnesota-based label Earthology Records is completely “green”. Founded by Cloud Cult lead singer Craig Minowa, the label is operated entirely on his organic farm. A press release from the label states that they are “the world’s only environmental non-profit record label,” and that all their CD packages use “hand-cleaned, reused jewel cases, which are donated by the box load from all over the county, recycled cardboard and paper, and nontoxic soy ink.” Hopefully, through the practices of Sub Pop and Earthology Records, both musicians and fans alike will foster a better relationship with the environment for generations to come. To learn more visit www.greenmusicalliance.org, www. subpop.com, and www.b-e-f.org.
SPORTS
Page 6 The Houstonian
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Grief on the green
Despite stunning start to the Southland Conference Women’s Golf Championship, Sam Houston State falls apart in closing round and loses grip of the title
Kats Stats SHSU BASEBALL RESULTS
By Mike Silva Sports Editor
TUESDAY, April 20
Upon entering Wednesday’s final round of the Southland Conference Women’s Golf Championship, Sam Houston State was confident, holding a 10-stroke lead over secondplace Central Arkansas and a 15-stroke lead on third-place Texas State. SHSU shot a one-over par, 285 round to conclude Tuesday’s play, which set an SLC single round tournament record. The Bearkats also had the luxury of playing on their home turf, the Raven’s Nest Golf Club, where they sought to become the first ever hostteam to win a Southland women’s golf title. The stage was set for an SHSU women’s golf title. That is, until play began on Wed. After scoring a 293 and a 285, respectively, as a team in the first two days of action, SHSU shot for a combined score of 309 on Wednesday. On the par 71 golf course, the 309 shot yesterday accounted for a +25 score for the team in the closing round of the championship. “Today the girls did not have their focus and concentration on the task at hand,” Head Golf Coach Tommy Chain said. “They started pulling and were never able to get their focus on what they needed to do.” “I was extremely proud of the girls for the first two days. It was tarnished today by their poor showing on the course. I knew they were capable of playing on a much higher level than they did today.” With SHSU collapsing in the final round, Texas State seized the moment and hit lights out to close the tournament strongly. The Bobcats set an SLC record with its team score of 297-296-292-885 for this week’s championship and
UPCOMING GAMES
SHSU 5 Baylor 9
April 23 - April 25 Nicholls at SHSU
SHSU FOOTBALL UPCOMING EVENTS SATURDAY, April 24
Orange-White Spring Game
9:30 a.m. - Bowers Stadium
WOMEN’S TENNIS COMING MATCHES April 23 - April 25
Southland Conference Tournament Corpus Christi, Texas
MEN’S GOLF UPCOMING EVENTS April 26 - April 28
Joe Buvid | The Houstonian
FORE! The Sam Houston State women’s golf team finished second in this week’s Southland Conference Women’s Golf Championship. The hostteam SHSU produced two top individual performers in Kirsten Spittler and Shelby Hardy, who finished tied for second with a score of 219.
climbed all the way to the top of the team standings to win the title. As winner of the Southland Conference women’s golf championship, Texas State will earn an automatic berth into the 2010 NCAA Division Women’s Golf Regionals to be held on May 5-6. Texas State’s 885 total was just two over the Bearkats’ 887 total, which placed SHSU at a tie for second with Central Arkansas in the final standings for the championship. UTSA finished fourth with its 889 team total. “Our plan was to try to play like we were behind and I don’t think we really stuck
with that plan,” Shelby Hardy said. “The past two days we played more aggressively, but today we were too conservative. We should’ve played like we were 10 strokes behind instead of 10 strokes ahead.” Hardy, who shot for 73-7175-219, along with teammate Kirsten Spittler, who shot for 74-68-77-219, stood out from the rest of the SHSU golfers. The two finished tied for second with Texas State’s Krista Puisite and Valdis Jonsdottier as runners up for individual medalist. The four finished behind Central Arkansas’ Rebecca Sorensen, who finished with a score of 70-70-73-213 to set
an SLC women’s championship record. Spittler, who was just two strokes behind Sorensen heading into play on Wed., finished the tournament for SHSU with an impressive par-5 birdie to clinch the number two spot for the Bearkats. “We played a little too safely today,” Spittler said. “Our coach told us to just go for the middle of the green and it kind of changed our whole outlook on the course. I think we should’ve stuck with the same game plan that we played with in the last two days.” SHSU’s Meghan Musk, who was one stroke behind Spittler after Tuesday’s round,
finished 11th in the individual standings after shooting a 7073-80-223 for the tournament. Landa Stewart, who is the only senior on SHSU’s 2010 women’s golf team, finished 15th with a score of 78-73-77228. Meghann Stevens finished 24th with her 76-73-85234 outing. “We played our hearts out,” Hardy said. “I’m proud of how we played as a team. I mean today we struggled, but as whole, in the past three days, we played like champions.” With a young team and only one player graduating, SHSU has a bright future and will have a solid chance of having a repeat of success in 2011.
Southland Conference Championship Hammond, Louisiana
SHSU SOFTBALL UPCOMING GAMES April 24 - April 25
SHSU at Southeastern La.
TRACK & FIELD UPCOMING EVENTS SATURDAY, April 24 University of Houston Invitational Houston, Texas