December 8, 2011

Page 1

Vol 119 | Issue 30

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Publishing since 1913

Independent Student Newspaper of Sam Houston State University

Meningitis vaccine required for college students, pg. 4

KAT Links

For additional content and news updates, visit houstonianonline.com.

Animation at Sam, pg. 5

INDEX Viewpoints ....... pg. 2 Special ............... pg. 6 Holiday Guide .. pg. 3 Sports................. pg. 7 News .................. pg. 4 Special ............... pg. 8 A&E ................... pg. 5

Salaries: checks and balances

Gender equity in faculty pay under inspection By McKinzie Brocail Senior Reporter Upon first glance there appears to be a gender-based discrepancy between Sam Houston State University’s male and female faculty’s salaries. Research of 2010 faculty salaries by the Houstonian revealed that throughout faculty ranks, the discrepancy increases: Male assistant professors make an average of roughly $2,000 more than female assistant professors. There is a nearly $6,500 difference between what male associate professors make compared to female associate professors, and male professors make nearly $9,000 more than female professors. When all categories are combined, the average male salary is $74,909 compared to $65,731 for females. “The university is in the process of running data through the Office of Institutional Research and Analysis,” Jaimie Hebert, Provost and Vice President

Christian Pratt | The Houstonian

for Academic Affairs, said when confronted with the dissimilarities. While the numbers at SHSU are skewed based solely on gender, there are other factors involved. “Where you see the largest discrepancies are

in the disciplines,” Hebert said. Different fields of study tend to pull in different salaries. “A lot of it depends on which degree you select,” Mary Davis, Ph.D., a sociology assistant

everyone that entered into a giddy, excited mood. “It’s a great way to start off the holiday season,” Gabe Chavarria, freshman mass communication student, said. There were boughs of garland along the walls, wreaths with red bows, poinsettias, ornate Christmas trees, holiday food and treats, a brass quartet and jazz ensemble playing holiday favorites, and, of course, Old Saint Nick. Guests were encouraged to get their photos taken with Santa Claus. Free copies of the photos were available on sight.

“It is nice to have the opportunity to see other staff members outside the office,” Kristi Kreier, Budget and Finance Director of the CJ Center, said. “We don’t normally get to see and enjoy some holiday cheer with them.” The festive dishes included Swedish meatballs, pigs-in-a-blanket, spinach dip and spicy cheddar grits. The dessert table offered a plethora of sweet treats including peanut brittle, chocolate toffee, various tartlets, peppermint bark, seasonally flavored muffins, pumpkin cheesecake, brownies, cookies and various fruit. Literally all that was missing were sugarplums. “It’s so diverse,” Danny McNeely, freshman music education student, said. “They brought everyone together.” Students coming in from the chilly weather enjoyed the variety of hot chocolate with marshmallows, coffee, and hot wassail. “The Holiday Open House has been a tradition for more than 20 years,” Dan McDaniel, the LSC director, said. “It’s always the first Wednesday of December.” Students from the music department performed in the brass quartet and jazz ensemble. The holiday joy was coordinated by the LSC and hosted by the President’s Cabinet. Aramark Food Services and the campus’ Barnes & Noble bookstore sponsored the Holiday Open House.

Spreading the cheer By McKinzie Brocail Senior Reporter The Lowman Student Center Ballroom was transformed into a grand scene of impressive holiday cheer for Sam Houston’s State University’s annual Holiday Open House on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Upon entering the ballroom, a vision that came close to mimicking childhood memories of Christmas morning evoked students, faculty and staff alike. The red and green colors and twinkling of Christmas lights put

Christian Pratt | The Houstonian

CHRISTMAS CHEER. The Lowman Student Center Ballroom got a makeover Wednesday for the SHSU annul Holiday Open House, held 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., which featured food and music.

professor, said. “Certain degrees earn more money than others, like physical science and engineering. When you’re comparing salaries, you must also compare the area of its study.” Along with their fields

of choice, faculty pay equity is also dependent upon production (including publications). “Sometimes the equity issue is that women are sometimes over-represented in their department, which occurs the same with

males,” Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences John de Castro, said. “Relative to their discipline, years and rank, factor in when determining if their salary — See SALARIES, page 4

Basketball comes up short, 64-37 against Texas A&M

Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian

ROUGH ROAD GAME. Basketball traveled to College Station Wednesday, losing to the Texas A&M Aggies (7-1) 64-37.

By Zach Birdsong Sports Editor

With a beat up team, the Bearkat men’s basketball squad traveled to Texas A&M on Wednesday. It was a rough night for the Bearkat squad as the Aggies ran rampant and easily won 64-37. The Aggies (7-1) opened the game seemingly on fire, and at the 9:34 mark of the first half, led 23-6. At the end of the first half, the Aggies lead 31-17 and shot 46.7 percent (14-of-30) from the field, while limiting Sam Houston to 21.9 percent (9-of-37). In the second half, it was more of the same as the Aggies outscored Sam Houston, 33-20, and with three minutes left to go in the game, held a commanding 31 points lead. Overall, the Aggies shot

46.7 percent from the field, and 35.7 percent from threepoint territory. Junior forward Ray Turner led all scorers, putting up 15 for the Aggies. Turner also managed to get a doubledouble, pulling down 10rebounds. “I needed one of these,” Turner said. “This is probably my first doubledouble that I’ve ever got here at Texas A&M. One thing I told myself is that I’ve got to get a double-double. I’ve got to show people that I have improved, and I have been working hard this offseason.” Guard Elston Turner added 14 points for the Aggies and forward David Loubeau scored 11. The defense of the Aggies was relentless and limited Sam Houston to shooting 25 percent from the field (15of-60) and 16.7 percent from beyond the arc (4-of-24).

Though the offense didn’t shoot well, they limited their turnovers with eight compared to the Aggies 11. “We were really bad tonight,” Sam Houston head coach Jason Hooten said. “You always have to find some silver linings. We turned the ball over 8 times against a good defensive team, I was pleased with that.” Demarcus Gatlin led all Sam Houston players with 13, shooting just 25 percent from the field (5-of-20). “Texas A&M is a tough place to play,” Gatlin said. “They had a lot of fans but we were solely focused on the task at hand. We didn’t execute defensively or on the offensive end. Coach tries to take the blame but we didn’t focus on our gameplan. We also didn’t rebound the ball well.” Against the Aggies, Sam Houston was outmatched on size and the Aggies took full advantage of that. “(When you’re limited big players) you get outrebounded 50 to 31 and give up 47 percent from the field,” Hooten said. “Not much you can do. It’s not like them where Roberson can’t play tonight and you have four other big guys. I have a 7-foot freshman. We’re trying to keep those guys out of foul trouble. The thing that hurts us the most is we can’t run much with one post man.” Next up, the Bearkats will travel and take on North Texas in Denton on Saturday night.

Want to stay connected? Catch us on our new Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. Facebook.com/HoustonianSHSU

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@TheHoustonian


Viewpoints

Page 2 Thursday, December 8, 2011

houstonianonline.com/viewpoints

STAFF LISTING Robin Johnson

FACULTY ADVISER 936-294-1499

Erin Peterson EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 936-294-1505

epeterson@houstonianonline.com

Stephen Green ASSOCIATE EDITOR 936-294-1502

epeterson@houstonianonline.com

Karmen C. King VIEWPOINTS EDITOR

kking@houstonianonline.com

Zachary Birdsong SPORTS EDITOR

zbirdsong@houstonianonline.com

George Mattingly A&E EDITOR

gmattingly@houstonianonline.com

Matt Frazier WEB AND MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

mfrazier@houstonianonline.com

McKinzie Brocail SENIOR REPORTER

mbrocail@houstonianonline.com

Jessica Gomez PHOTOGRAPHER

April Sanders COPY EDITOR

Christian Pratt

GRAPHIC COORDINATOR

AD DEADLINES Tuesday’s Issue - Friday 5 p.m. Thursday’s Issue - Tuesday 2 p.m.

Paty Mason BUSINESS MANAGER 936-294-1500

pmason@houstonianonline.com

Chelsea Boyd ADVERTISING MANAGER 936-294-1495

cboyd@houstonianonline.com

Destini Ogbonna ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE 936-294-1503

dogbonna@houstonianonline.com

Meagan Ellsworth PRODUCTION MANAGER

mellsworth@houstonianonline.com

Chrystal Golden

COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST cgolden@houstonianonline.com

Today in history: 1660 – Margaret Hughes becomes the first actress to appear on an English public stage, playing the role of Desdemona in a production of Shakespeare’s play Othello. 1854 – In his Apostolic constitution Ineffabilis Deus, Pope Pius IX proclaims the dogmatic definition of Immaculate Conception, which holds that the Virgin Mary was born free of original sin. 1941 – United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt declares December 7 to be “a date which will live in infamy”, after which the U.S. and the Republic of China declare war against Japan. 1980 –John Lennon, an English musician and peace activist, is murdered by Mark David Chapman, a mentally unstable fan, in front of The Dakota apartment building in New York City. 1993 – The North American Free Trade Agreement is signed into law by US President Bill Clinton. 2009 – Bombings in Baghdad, Iraq kill 127 and injure 448.

Good night and good news Editor-in-Chief Erin Peterson bids goodbye to the newsroom Two years goes by a lot faster than you’d think it would. I transferred to Sam in Spring 2010, and found myself a little bored after a few weeks. My classes were great, but I wasn’t really involved. I didn’t have a job, and I only knew a few friends from back home who had also transferred in. So, after realized that I loved to write, one girl in my French class told me about the paper. I walked into the office that afternoon, and I haven’t left since. I became the girl with the “wicked” grammar skills, probably not very evident at the moment. I usually just type up one draft and edit as I go. I’ve never been one for rough drafts. Copy editing just came naturally, and so did the friends. For two semesters, I was the copy editor. In the spring I became associate news editor. By some weird stroke of luck, and sometimes I think out of sheer necessity, I became editor-in-chief this summer. Stepping into that role was one of the most unique experiences I’ve ever had, and I’ve been utterly overwhelmed ever since. My struggles came with the time. From the beginning, I knew that I’d only be chief for one semester, mostly because of my schedule. In addition to spending all of my waking hours at the newspaper, I learned to fit in time for my secondary methods block. You see, I want to be a teacher. I love reading and writing, and I love to talk about reading and writing. Teaching has always been something I’ve loved. I tutored in high school, and I got such a major thrill from that for some twisted reason. The newspaper just became an extension of that. The time thing was what got to me. I’d wake up at the crack of dawn (sometimes before then), go to methods for the day, drive back and then become my other half for the rest of the day. At this moment, I am, in a word, tired. Meagan, I’ve never met anyone like you. I honestly don’t know how you did this job for so long. You’re such a kind and honest person, and you have the ability to make me laugh until I cry. I am going to miss you so very much. Keep at that multimedia stuff. It’s tough, but you’ve got a natural humor that keeps showing up in every project you’ve shown us. I can’t wait to see what you do. Oh, and get your ass to Australia. You deserve it. Jessica Priest, I hope you’re reading this. It has been a wonderful experience to watch you grow up and away from The Houstonian. I know you’re going to do amazing things. Like you, I’m also going to have to learn to take things less personally. It’s harder than it looks, and I get that now. Dr. Johnson – er, Robin. The “doctor” just looks and sounds weird. You were never my professor, but you’ve become a really great advisor and mentor over the last several months. I know I’m a little too easy going at times for you (and sometimes the complete opposite, which must really screw with you) but thank you so much for all your help. I know the paper is only going to improve from here on out. Just ease up a bit. And know that we all think you’re John from the Garfield comics (see cartoon behind my desk).

Erin Peterson Editor-in-Chief

Jessica Gomez, I am convinced, now more than ever, that you have magical powers. You’re one of the most talented people I’ve ever met. As an editor, one of the things I love the most is just giving you an idea and letting you run with it. You provide some of the most inspiring results. The go-go dancer photo is permanently etched into my brain. You know the one. Keep at it, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Take some risks. When you do, it pays off. You deserve the payoff. You’re also so very sweet and funny (when I watch Breaking Dawn from now on, I’m always going to laugh at the most inappropriate moments, thanks to you). I’m going to miss you, girl. To this semester’s staff, above all else, thank you. To say that I was nervous when this summer began is a colossal understatement. You see, with the exception of Stephen, you’re all brand new. That’s both wonderful and terrifying all at once. You’re all green as grass, which is a blessing and a curse. You were moldable and yet looked for direction. However, you are all so very talented, which is why I hired you. As a collective, we’ve all grown so much this semester. I have a feeling you’re all going to go wonderful places in this world. I wish you nothing but the best. Stephen, you probably hate me. I did to you exactly what Meagan did to me, even though I swore I wouldn’t. I procrastinated, though I said I wouldn’t. I took forever to give you the rest of your stories, though I swore up and down that I wouldn’t. However, I know I pushed you. It’s going to help you in the long run. My only advice is for you to be patient and ask for help. Delegate, delegate, delegate. It’ll save your peace of mind in the long run. You’ve got a long ways to go, my friend. Oh, and I’m going to miss your cooking. Butter babies, anyone? I’m sorry I missed your Thanksgiving, and I’m sorry in advance for having to miss your Christmas dinner. You’re so kind and thoughtful for doing all that for everyone. Please stay that way. You’re such a wonderful person. Karmen… Relax, girl. Take a step back every once in a while, and please keep writing. It’s awesome reading your sports articles, and I loved your brief venture into the news world. Whatever you do, just don’t stop writing. You’ve got talent,

Let’s go to work Kendall Scudder greets the new Huntsville City Council, hopes for improved unity and open minds Election seasons aren’t always easy on the people that are the most highly involved. Upon learning of the candidates, many citizens line up firmly behind their guys/gals and fight as hard as they can. That’s Democracy. What the most beautiful thing about this process is, however, is the sheer passion exerted by everyday people; everyday people that may see things in a different light but are ultimately all working towards the same thing: to make this city, this state, and this nation a better place. Now that elections are over, there are two roads, for us as citizens, to move down. The first road is a road of divisiveness and stubbornness. It’s a road that tells us to maintain the bitter and hateful attitudes that we have developed over contentious elections and fight, fight, fight until our very last breath. But then there’s always that second road. A road that tells us all to leave the past where it belongs and to move forward together. The second road is the path that I would like for the great folks of our city to take. On Tuesday night, the new city council was sworn into their seats; seats that they will hold for at least two years. With these new faces on the dais, let’s all do

Kendall Scudder

Recurring Columnist our best to work alongside them, regardless of if they were someone that you personally supported or opposed, in order to repair those areas of Huntsville that are in great need of service and to build upon that in which we can currently only imagine. We were blessed to have so many fantastic opportunities bestowed upon this community, and we can’t let them all go to waste over petty politics. Don’t get me wrong, I still firmly believe that every citizen should express their views, regardless of how mainstream or rare they may be, it’s still crucial that we hold our government officials accountable, and it’s still important for us all to keep a close eye on the happenings at city hall. My proposal today is that we move forward with blank slates and give this new council an opportunity

to prove themselves to the citizens of Huntsville. It’s 2011, and still today in Huntsville, we have citizens who live on streets that aren’t paved, citizens who the city has still failed to provide city water and sewer, and citizens that are struggling every single day to make ends meet while their government tussles over political aspirations. Let’s teach those people, those people who we have neglected for so long, that they deserve better than that. With the swearing in of Mayor Mac Woodward, Councilman Joe Emmett, Councilwoman Tish Humphrey, Councilman Ronnie Allen, and Councilman Clyde Loll, let’s teach the cynics that we’re bigger than these minor squabbles that divide us. Let’s all work together to make this city even greater than it is now. Regardless of your ideological preferences, your political party, our socioeconomic status or your occupation, we can all agree that Huntsville deserves better than what we’re giving her. It’s time to act like adults and get this city moving forward again. - Kendall is a senior political science major.

you just have to nurture it a little. Also, thanks in advance for letting me crash on your couch for that week in January. You’re saving my butt, and I’m excited about the girl nights we’re going to have. Margaritas and good ice cream, here we come. George. Oh, my sassy, sassy George. I’m going to miss you so very much. You were an absolute blessing when I was associate editor and have become a very promising arts and entertainment editor. You’ve also become one of my dearest friends at this school. You’re absolutely hilarious, honest as can be and a great friend to escape and go eat Japanese food with. Every time I have fried green tea ice cream, I’m going to think of you. You better keep in touch, and we’re going to go out for your birthday this summer, I promise. Zachary Birdsong. Bahahaha. Oh, Zachary, Zachary, Zachary. Just kidding, Zach, though I warned you I’d use your full name. Even though we only hung out this semester, it’s been great dishing out old stories from our high school days, especially about “the turtle lady.” There are no words to describe how great that moment was, by the way. My advice is for you to keep it up and to not be afraid to think outside the box. If you feel like things are starting to form a pattern, mix it up and everything else will balance itself out. The key is balance. Also, we need to grab a beer from Rockwell. I still haven’t been, and that’s a crime. Oh, by the way, are the hills still alive with the sound of music? Christian, hang in there. Don’t wear yourself too thin. Again, the key is balance. Learn to go a little darker in your work. Not everything is simple and clean. Go a little rough around the edges, insert some personality – do whatever comes naturally. Just keep it professional, and you’ll do fine. And go for girls that are a little more local. You deserve better than all of those long road trips. Matt, it’s been a pleasure getting to know you over the last several weeks. I’m sure the experience has been an odd one for you. There’s a lot to take in here, but you’ll do fine. Just stick to what you know and don’t be afraid to dive out of the box a little. If you need help, ask questions. And best of luck to you. Your job is a demanding one, but you’ll do just fine. I’m sure of it. I wouldn’t have hired you otherwise. McKinzie, I moustache you a question... Just kidding, my punny girl, but I’m going to miss you. You’ve been wonderful to have around this semester, and I really hope you stick with it. You’ve got so much potential, and The Houstonian could really use a writer like you. Search for both sides of the story, even if it doesn’t seem like there’s another side. There always is. Oh, and don’t shy away from the strange stories. You’ve got a natural eye and talent for those. Above all else, have fun. I love you all dearly, and I’m going to miss being around and pretending to work when Robin comes in the room. *tosses scarf in a dramatic goodbye* Working with you has been one of the best experiences of my life.

“Paws UP” to Coach Fritz for all he has done, and all he continues to do for this “Paws DOWN” to Liberty u n i v e r s i t y . Mutual for their obvious Thanks Coach, fraud. Fritz IS the coach of the we’re ALL IN! year! Paws DOWN Eat ‘Em Up!

Paws UP

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 communications building. We look forward to hearing from you and thank you as always for your continued support of the Houstonian. Karmen C. King Viewpoints Editor kking@houstonianonline.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 936-294-1495. The Houstonian is a member of the Associated Press and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association.


You Should

Live

HeRe

!

Holiday Guide

Page 3

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Best holiday travel spots 1. Colorado

Skiing and snowboarding are awesome.

2. Cruises

We like the idea of being catered to all day, every day for a week or so. Oh, and the escape from Facebook and Twitter.

3. New York City

Timeless and covered in snow, just the way we like it. Be sure to check out Times Square and the tree and ice rink at Rockerfeller Center.

4. Mexico

Beaches and scubadiving? Check.

January Move-ins get

ONE MONTH FREE! Plus... $0 Deposit! Only 4 blocks from SHSU 24-hr access to clubhouse & fitness Sparkling pool w/ covered lounge Pro-beach v-ball & b-ball courts Efficiency, 1, 2, & 4 bedroom plans Visit website for video tour & specials...

5. Bahamas

We’d like to get lost here, too.

Best gifts to give, receive 1. Money, gift cards Easy to buy and spend.

2. Apple products

We’re Mac-heads around here. iPads and iPods are top picks. Macbook Pros are equally nice.

3. Video games

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 takes the top spot.

4. Cameras

936.436.9190

universityhouse.com

Perfect way to capture perfect moments.

5. Homemade goodies

Sometimes the nicest gifts are the ones that took the most time to make.

apply today

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2-story townhomes. private bedrooms & huge walk-in closets. resort-style amenities. individual leases.

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News

Page 4 Thursday, December 8, 2011

houstonianonline.com/news

‘Black Swan’ writer gives advice to future filmmakers, screenwriters By Stephen Green

Associate News Editor

The screenwriter for the 2010 blockbuster “Black Swan” visited the campus of Sam Houston State University on Wednesday to give advice to mass communications students. John McLaughlin sat in Studio A of the Dan Rather Communication Building to answer questions that students and faculty had about his experience as a screenwriter for “Black Swan.” He began answering questions with a general overview of the industry itself. “There are a lot of skills needed in scriptwriting,

although, film is a collaboration. You have to please a lot of people,” McLaughlin said. His blunt speaking style was very apparent throughout the night to the audience, especially when describing how to become successful as a full-time writer. “To be successful in the business you have to be a killer cutthroat and also please a lot of people,” McLaughlin said. While his most wellknown movie is “Black Swan” he has other movies that made it to the big screen. He was a co-author and screenplay writer for “Man of the House” (2005).

AWARD-WINNING. ‘Black Swan’ was nominated for over 200 awards in several countries including Academy Awards, Screen Actor Guild, and Golden Globe Awards.

He also was a co-screenplay writer for “Parker” with Jennifer Lopez that will come out next year. McLaughlin said that unlike television writers, movie writers have to write in isolation away from their co-workers. “Writers write in isolation to keep them from discussing financial deals, but we all got along,” he said. “’Black Swan’ was a 10 year project and I only met the first writer at the British Academy Film Awards.” Although his movie was a world-wide hit, McLaughlin says he won’t watch his own movie. “I don’t like watching anything I’ve written,” he said. “There are actors that can’t watch themselves. I’m a writer that can’t watch his work. The only time I’ll watch it is when someone forces me into the situation.” Even when he is watching other movies, McLaughlin said it’s difficult to get into a movie. “It’s hard for me to enjoy movies. It’s like working in the shop that makes magician tricks,” he said. “It takes away the illusion.” But some movies he says have few parts that he would change himself. “There are a few movies that are perfect in that way, like ‘The Americanization of Emily’ and ‘Smile,’” he said. McLaughlin said the

Stephen Green | The Houstonian

INTO THE LIMELIGHT. John McLaughlin, was a co-author and screenplay writer for “Man of the House” (2005). He also was a co-screenplay writer for “Parker” with Jennifer Lopez that will come out next year.

movie he first remembers being blown away by was “The Planet of the Apes.” While attending film school he discovered he wanted to create films, but that didn’t last long. “Back then making film was expensive and writing was cheaper,” he said. “And writing was still a way to get into the business.” After graduating from the New York Film Academy with a degree in dramatic writing and film, he began his decades long journey to where he is today. “It was hard to get

started. I had to get another job to support my writing,” he said. “Getting connections was slow because I didn’t come from a family that had Hollywood connections. It took about eight year before I could support myself just off of writing.” Years after beginning his journey, he gave advice to aspiring screenwriters: keep writing. “If you are an aspiring screenwriter and you produce a movie independently someone may be watching that has

power. If they approach you they probably won’t be interested in what you just showed. They’ll ask if you have any other stuff.” “You can do it, you just have to write a lot. You have got to finish everything you start…no matter how terrible it is. If not you’re training yourself to only write one-third of a script.” There will be a special showing of his movie today in the Performing Arts Center (Erica Starr Theatre) at 8 p.m. It is open to all who want to attend.

From ASSAULT

finished college.” According to a study done at Berkeley School of Law by the widely published scholar Mary Ann Mason, “only one in three women who take a fasttrack university job before having a child ever become mothers. Among tenured professors, only 44 percent of women are married with children, compared with 77 percent of men. And women who achieve tenure are more than twice as likely as men to be single 12 years after earning a Ph.D. In addition, women who are married when they begin their faculty careers are much more likely than men in the same position to divorce or separate from their spouses.” Males tend to get their doctorates 7-10 years earlier than women, according to Davis. In past years, de Castro has recognized that the salaries for women didn’t equally add up to men’s. “I go over everyone’s salary in terms of their compensation relative to the market,” de Castro said. “To fix it you have to look at the individual, their years in their rank and their productivity.” The inequities do not always affect only women. “I see [inequity] as an issue, that’s why I do these analyses,” de Castro said. “I think it’s important. I do it for minorities and different categories of faculty, not just women.” There is a plan to fix inequities if they are indeed determined in the upcoming report from the Office of Institutional Research and Analysis. “If discrepancies are found, I will bring it forward to the Council of Deans,” Hebert said. “Market adjustments have been done in the past. When faculty were found to make below-average salaries. We do have a mechanism in place outside of those the regular merit process; we have market adjustments. Once the data on the faculty member’s salaries is examined and released, Hebert will meet with a member of the Houstonian for discussion.

page 1

Bill requires meningitis vaccines among incoming college students Christian Pratt | The Houstonian

By Stephen Green

Associate News Editor

All incoming students, not only resident students, will be required to receive a meningitis vaccine before coming back for Spring classes due to the passage of SB 1107 by State Governor Rick Perry. The law is effective Jan. 1, 2012, and requires all students entering an institution of higher education to either receive a vaccination against bacterial meningitis or meet certain criteria declining the vaccination 10 days before the first day of classes. Therefore, all entering students including: 1)

returning students who did not attend classes at SHSU in the fall of 2011 semester, 2) entering freshmen, 3) transfer students, and 4) entering graduate or postbaccalaureate students must submit evidence of vaccination against bacterial meningitis. “There was more distress than I’ve ever seen during my tenure about making that recommendation solely on the basis of cost,” said Dr. Carol Baker, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and the chairwoman of the advisory committee. The dispute centered on whether it was worth doubling the price tag of

the program for such a rare disease. “I would like to see the whole age group immunized, because it looks like it’s an age thing and not a college thing,” said Baker, who supported Davis’ bill, though she said it is difficult to reach those who don’t enroll in higher education. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Bacterial Meningitis is a serious and potentially deadly disease that can progress very quickly. It is the inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include high

SEND US YOUR NEWS TIPS Dan Rather Room 210 936-294-1505 sgreen@houstonianonline.com

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fever, rash or purple patches on skin, light sensitivity, confusion and sleepiness, lethargy, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, nausea, and seizures. Last year the vaccine costs anywhere between $90 to $103 at the Student Health Center. They can be administered for $10 at the Texas Department of State Health Services on Lake Road to students. The evidence of vaccination of bacterial meningitis form can be found at: http:// w w w. s h s u . e d u / ~ u h c _ www/documents/

is appropriate.” But when these additional factors are considered in national studies, gender pay inequity persists. According to a 2011 report prepared for the American Association of University Professors, faculty pay disparity has barely changed in 35 years. The salary disadvantage of female assistant and associate professors is 7 percent and 12 percent for full professors. As a professor that teaches a graduate course on gender and society, Davis understands that more than merely being a woman influences pay. Gender roles that are associated with women place a major part in inequity. “The age at which one gets their degree and whether or not the universities are childfriendly impact women on a different level than men,” Davis said. “Men have a direct clear path for tenure because they do not have gaps in their process for children and care-giving.” There are numerous options available to increase family-friendliness at the university to aid women in moving up the tenure and salary tracks. “Many campuses offer daycare services, family-friendly offices, family-friendly maternity policies,” Davis said. “At a campus with 17,000 students, in a small community, one thing that would help our students and young faculty is childcare facilities on campus. Many of these facilities that exist are integrated into the early childhood development courses.” Davis earned her bachelor’s degree at 20 years old and her master’s degree at 22. She got married afterwards. While both working full-time and participating in the Ph.D. program at North Texas, she dropped out to have children. “My biological clock was ticking,” Davis said. “I raised two kids and went back and finished my doctorate once they had


Arts & Entertainment

Page 5 Thursday, December 8, 2011

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Students to modernize classic tales Animation students to present original short films By George Mattingly

Arts & Entertainment Editor

A group of senior animation students will tell a modern twist on classic stores as they present their original short films at Animation from Sam at 6 p.m. in the Mafrige Auditorium located in the Smith-Hudson Building. The screening will feature short animations, each three to five minutes long, that will be based on classic fairy tales or myths with stories ranging from Greek mythology to the rivalry between cats and rats. “(The presentation) motivates the students to have a deadline and to show the rest of the campus and community what they are doing,” Diana Salles, assistant professor of animation, said. Although each of the films will only be minutes long, students have been working on their projects for a majority of the semester. Each film began as a mere concept and students took creative reigns that involved drawing story boards, creating 3-D models, writing lines, recording and animating characters that require “the patience of a zen monk,” according to Salles. In one of the films titled “E”, one group retells an old folktale in their modern version about a man who is led down a cliff by a

George Maingly | The Houstonian

MINI PIXAR: Groups of senior animation students will present their final projects at 6 p.m. after about three months of detailed work. Their short, three to five minute films are based on classic fairy tales and myths and are a culmination of an entire creative process similar to Pixar animations such as drawing storyboards, creating 3-D models, and recording and animating characters.

mysterious old man, but is saved by an unlikely hero: his car. According to members of the group, their film involved lots of details, especially with animating a car. The red car they include in their film involved very precise movement in order to make it more humanlike.

“3-D is way different than 2-D animation,” Ross Bradfield said, who took his first 3-D animation class this semester. “All animation has basics, but it’s very different. 3-D is like puppetry.” Another film titled “Love Hurts” explores the past to explain why cats hate rats.

One scene depicts the cat and rat being thrown out of a restaurant as they crash into each other and tumble across the ground. In “Persephone,” another group will present their lighter take on the classic Greek myth about the origin of the four seasons. With each story told through animation, each

group also experienced their own set of challenges. “The biggest problem I had was having to redo things,” senior Sarah Beal, who animated the rat for her group, said. “I realized I could make it (the animation) better afterwards and had to go back.” “A lot of our problems had to deal with

compatibility issues,” Carter Mceachern said. “We had different versions of the programming so it took time to come it and work on it (the project).” For other groups, working in a group helped overcome several issues and allowed them to achieve what they wanted. “It’s like an assembly line,” senior Cole Wiser who worked on “Persephone,” said. “If one of us wasn’t good at something, we had other people who were. Everyone had their part.” For all students, having the chance to finally present their work will be a huge relief after months of hard work. “It’s like being pregnant and finally giving birth to a child,” senior Erin Izbrand, said. A small reception will precede the screening at 5 p.m. and will feature prints from the “Shading, Rendering, and Lighting” and “Interactive Games” classes. Animation from Sam is sponsored by the SHSU Art Department and SHSU Siggraph, an organization of students creating animation, games, computer graphics and comics. For more information, contact Salles at 936-2943200 or dms033@shsu. edu.

What’s on your playlist? Houstonian Staff answers

George Mattingly | The Houstonian

HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR: The School of Music will showcase a variety of ensembles that will bring the holiday spirit to campus through their performances. Ensembles include choral, jazz, orchestra groups and smaller groups such as the flute ensemble, saxophone quartet and harp duo.

Holiday cheer in PAC Musical ensembles to present tunes of the season By George Mattingly

Arts & Entertainment Editor

Christian Pratt | The Houstonian

Some of the most memorable music of the holidays will kick off the season before finals as the School of Music presents a “Glorious and Triumphant” Holiday Spectacular on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. The concert will feature a wide variety of music ensembles, including the SHSU Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Choir, Jazz Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Saxophone Quartet and a harp duo, involving about 200 faculty and students. The selections for the concert will include

different arrangements of classic holiday tunes and other pieces associated with the holidays such as four excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker”. Faculty members James Franklin, Aric Schneller and Nicole Franklin are among the conductors for the different groups According to David Cole, Ph.D, Director of Orchestral Studies, the concert serves a dual purpose for the audience and students. “We try to include music that students will play later on in their careers,” Cole said. “Almost everywhere, holiday concerts are a staple. So it’s not just for fun, it’s to help prepare

students as musicians.” The performances will serve as a way to bring the holiday spirit to the campus right before the stress of finals and a chance to showcase the range of musical talent at SHSU. “The people coming to the PAC will get to see a whole spectrum of what the school of music does, including vocal, jazz and orchestral music.” The Holiday Spectacular is the last major performance for the School of Music. Tickets are $14 for students. For more information about upcoming performances next semester, contact the School of Music at 936294-1360.



Sports

Page 7 Thursday, December 8, 2011

houstonianonline.com/sports

twitter.com/HoustonianSport

Football preps for next round

By Zach Birdsong Sports Editor

Coming off a nail-biter game against Stony Brook, the Bearkat football team is preparing to take on the Montana State Bobcats in the quarterfinals of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs on Saturday. With the win the team improved their record to 12-0 and extended their overall win streak to 14, the longest active streak in Division I. In that game, the Bearkat offense started slow, but was able to open up in the second half, rushing for 182 yards total (144 in the second half) and a combined 343 yards. “We had a very hard fought ball game against Stony Brook,” Bearkat head coach Willie Fritz said. “We got behind early, but the guys did a great job coming back.” Montana State (9-3) is coming off a narrow 26-25 win against New Hampshire. Down 26-19 with seven seconds to go, New Hampshire scored to make the score 26-25. But, Montana State was able to get through and block the point after touchdown securing the win for Montana State. Comparing the Teams Against Stony Brook, the Bearkat defense struggled, allowing 376 yards, and 226 of those came off of play action passes. It won’t get any easier for the Bearkat secondary, as Montana State averages 213 passing yards a game. They are led by

Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian

BREAKING THROUGH. Running back Tim Flanders, rushes the ball against Stony Brook. Flanders finished with 102 yards and scored the game winning touchdown.

quarterback DeNarius McGhee. In 12 games this season, McGhee has completed 61 percent of his passes for 2,527 yards and 23 touchdowns. Overall, the Bobcats average 436 yards a game, good for the 12th best in the FCS. Running back Cody Kirk leads the team in rushing, picking up 1,329 yards and scoring 14 touchdowns. Running back Tray Robinson has also picked up 599 yards and rushed for

five touchdowns. The Bobcat defense is expected to have a tough time against a Sam Houston squad that rushes for 244 yards a game, ranking eighth in the FCS. But the Bobcat defense ranks as one of the top in the FCS, allowing just 315 yards a game, including just 125 rushing yards. The Bearkats are led offensively by running back Tim Flanders. This season, Flanders has rushed 1,235 yards and scored 21 rushing

Fritz robbed of honor Sports Editor Zach Birdsong voices his opinion about Willie Fritz being snubbed for ‘Coach of the Year’ A crime occurred at Sam Houston State University when head football coach Willie Fritz was robbed of a nomination for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year on Tuesday. In his second season at Sam Houston, Fritz has the team 12-0, the only unbeaten team in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), and the overall number one team in the Subdivision. At the end of the online fan voting which closed last week, Fritz led all voters in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) with an overwhelming 38 thousand votes. Rob Ambrose, head coach of Towson, finished in second with 15 thousand. But, when the top five finalists for the award were announced Tuesday, Fritz’s name was nowhere to found. This inspired many Sam Houston fans to tweet at the company’s twitter page for the award (@lmcoachofyear), and question the legitimacy of the award. At first the company was open and willing to respond to fans, but later on in the day, the company stopped responding.

The company attempted to justify their reasoning by stating via twitter: “Community service, player academics, and past violations also go into consideration for the media & college HOF voters.” All of that into consideration, Fritz’s daughter Lainie, reminded the company about the impact the football coach has made in Huntsville. “Team GPA is 2.7. Done at least 2 community service projects AND the wounded warrior jersey auction that raised 13k #tryagain. And not one NCAA violation in coaching history…” The company also went on to explain how the voting worked by posting a link to their selection criteria page. According to the page, fan voting is only responsible for 20 percent of the award. 25 percent is from national media votes, and the other 55 percent is from the College Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee Votes. While fans are quick to judge the company, the real blame should be on the national media and the College Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee. While the company sponsors the award, the

voters are the ones who make the selections, and the fact that Fritz isn’t nominated for the award is mind boggling. However, I’m hopeful this Bearkat football team will use this as extra motivation against Montana State. After all, after learning Fritz had been snubbed, I, as an SHSU fan feel devalued and overlooked. The team should use this and seemingly come out against the Bobcats with a “chip on their shoulder.” While Fritz won’t be getting the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year award, he is still nominated for other awards. He is still a nominee for the Eddie Robinson Award, given to the FCS Coach of the Year and presented by The Sports Network, and is also one-of-five candidates for the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Coach of the Year award. The Robinson Award will be presented on Jan. 6 in Frisco, Texas as a part of the Sports Network Banquet. The AFCA Coach of the Year announcement will be made on Jan. 10. For more information about Fritz and the football team, visit gobearkats.com. Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian

DISSED. Sports Editor Zach Birdsong reacts to the snub of head coach Willie Fritz by the national media and College Football Hall of Fame committee, as Fritz received an overwhelming 38,000 votes compared to Rob Ambrose’s 15,000 votes in the fan portion of the award process, only worth 20 percent.

touchdowns. Out of the “Wild Bearkat” formation, wide receiver Richard Sincere has rushed for 756 yards and scored nine touchdowns. Both Flanders and Sincere will be utilized as receivers as well. Sincere leads the team in receiving yardage with 406 yards and scored on three receiving touchdowns. Flanders has 28 receptions for 404 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback Brian Bell has been an integral part of

the team, throwing for 1,768 yards, 16 touchdowns, and more importantly only throwing 3 interceptions. Game Information The game on Saturday will be broadcasted on national television on ESPN and kick-off is scheduled for 11 a.m. “It’s really exciting to have the game on ESPN,” Fritz said. “But when the ball is kicked off, it’s just a regular ballgame.” Tickets for Saturday’s

game against Montana State are still available. Students can purchase their ticket in Bearkat Plaza during the week for $5. On Monday, the university announced that reserved seating at the game has sold out. General admission tickets are still available and can be purchased online. For more information about the football team, including ticketing, visit gobearkats.com.



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