6-11 Houstonian by The Houstonian

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TONY AWARDS REVIEW

Ormsbee: Death penalty is expensive, final

Green: Strict security isn’t always good online

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Volume 123 / Issue 30

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Technology

Apple unveils operating systems, iTunes Radio MONTY SLOAN Staff Reporter Apple’s annual conference showcased updates to their computer and mobile operating systems and unveiled a new service called iTunes Radio. This year’s Apple Worldwide Developers Conference was light on hardware revisions, only the MacBook Air and Mac Pro were updated with new designs, as the showcase focused mainly on software updates to Apple’s iOS and Mac operating system. The new iOS, the software that runs iPhones, iPads and iPod Touches, features changes throughout the entire operating system as Apple has completely redesigned the look of the system. The new look of iOS has been complimented with changes across the entire system. Multitasking has been improved on the devices; a double-tap of the home button will launch a multitasker view allowing the user to scroll through all the applications currently running on the device and give them the ability to stop any application by swiping it off the screen. “It’s a complete redesign of iOS,” Apple CEO Tim Cook said.

“Installing iOS 7 is like getting a completely new interface, but one you already know how to use.” Apple also unveiled their new service iTunes Radio in response to the growing popularity of music streaming services. Like similar services, iTunes Radio streams music based on the user’s personal preference directly to their devices, but unlike other services, is built in to Apple’s devices creating a more streamlined experience. On the computer front, Apple unveiled their OS X 10.9 software, dropping the previous naming convention of large cat species in favor of calling the new version “Mavericks.” The new operating system changes include better support for multiple monitors, new organizational tools for files and increased compatibility with iOS devices for users of both Apple computers and mobile devices. An update to the hardware of the MacBook Air was announced, as well as an update to the Mac Pro, the only one since its inception in 2006. The new design is notably smaller than its replacement and is assembled in the United States. “’Can’t innovate any more’ my ass” Paul Schiller, senior vice president of Apple said when revealing the Mac Pro’s new design.

AP Photo/Eric Risberg

NEW iOS RELEASED. Craig Federighi, senior vice president of Software Engineering at Apple talks about the features of the new iOS 7 during the keynote address of the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference Monday.

Campus

Shields named dean of COFAMC KASSIDY TURNPAUGH Staff Reporter The College of Fine Arts and Mass Communications at Sam Houston State University will be welcoming a new dean as of July 1. Ronald Shields previously served as a professor and chair of the Department of Theatre and Film at Bowling Green University where he was recognized for his leadership, research, creative work, service and teaching over a 17 year period. “We are so delighted that Ronald Shields is joining the academic leadership team at Sam Houston State University,” Dr. Jaimie Hebert, provost and vice president for academic affairs, said. “Dean Shields will bring vast, positive administrative experiences within the arts community to this great college.” Shields is expected to bring a fresh new outlook and

vast creative changes to the department. “Coupling his experience, and the quality of the college, with a vision of generating synergism among these programs and promoting the college image to the larger c o m m u n i t y, I cannot overemphasize SHIELDS my confidence in the inevitable success he will have taking the college to the next level,” Hebert said. Shields graduated from Louisiana State University with a doctorate in Speech (Oral Interpretation, Theatre, Radio/ Television/Film) in 1983. In addition Shields played a key role in building internal and external support for the arts at

BGSU, including the opening of a new performing arts center in 2012, the designation of “the arts” as a Center of Excellence at BGSU, and the cultivation of diversity, interdisciplinary programs, as well as expanded curricular offerings. Shields also professionally serves as a member on the executive committee of the National Communication Association and the chair of the finance board for that organization. “I am honored to be selected as dean of the (COFAMC) at (SHSU), an institution known for leadership in education, engagement with the community, and excellence in the study and practice of the arts and mass communication,” Shields said. “My immediate plan is to begin the work of partnering with the college faculty and staff to advance the goals and mission of the university and prepare our students for the future.”

Campus

Wall of Honor member, Bennett, dies at 75 STEPHEN GREEN Editor-in-Chief The College of Humanities and Social Sciences lost it’s last original inductee when Walter Bennett, Ph.D., died at the age of 75 on Wednesday, June 5. Bennett graduated from Sam Houston S t a t e Un i v e r s it y with a b a c h e l o r ’s and master’s degree in sociology in 1961 and BENNETT 1962. He then went on to Mississippit State University where he received his Ph.D. in sociology in 1970. Bennett was a professor in the sociology department from 1962 to 1964, and again from from

1970 to 1973. From 1973 to 1994, Bennett served as the chair of the sociology department. He retired in 2010. He was both the youngest and longest-serving chair in the deparment. In 2011, Bennett and three others were placed on the CHSS Wall of Honor in recognition of their service. Then chair of sociology Alesandro Bonnano, Ph.D., said Bennet was a distinguised member of the department for more than 40 years. “I can safely say that in my long career in academia, I have not met a more dedicated member of faculty than (Bennett),” Bonnano said. “He has been and is an example for us all.” State Rep. Lois Kolkhorst wrote Bennett in 2003 thanking him for his service to SHSU and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, where he also taught. “It is people like you that touch lives and inspire people,” she said in the letter. “I appreciate all that

you do for (SHSU) and (TDCJ). You’re truly making a difference in the lives of many.” During his tenure at SHSU and TDCJ, he saw 522 students graduate with their degrees in sociology and minors in psycology. Bennett also served on Huntsville’s Youth Advisory Board and the Police Promotion Review Board. Walter was preceded in death by his wife, Minnie Margaret Bennett, whom he met while attending SHSU. They had one child, Walter Bennet, Jr. Walter was born in Beaumont but was raised in Devers. He graduated from Liberty High School in 1956. Memorial donations may be made to: Walter and Minnie Bennett Scholarship Fund, University Advancement Office, SHSU Box 2537, Huntsville, Texas 77341 or a charity of choice. He was buried on Saturday, June 8 at Conroe Memorial Park Cemetary.

Huntsville Police Dept. Reports Day Shift – June 7 • A one-vehicle crash was reported in the 1200 block of 13th Street. The vehicle struck a building. No injuries reported. • A two-vehicle crash was reported in the 1300 block of University Avenue. No injuries reported. • A two-vehicle crash was reported in the intersection of Montgomery Road and Interstate 45 North. No injuries reported. • A theft was reported in the 1500 block of 11th Street. An unknown suspect took a wallet without consent. • A theft was reported in the 600 block of Interstate 45 South. Unknown suspect(s) used another person’s identification information. • A two-vehicle crash was reported in the intersection of Sam Houston Avenue and Montgomery Road. No injuries reported. • A two-vehicle crash was reported in the 7500 block of State Highway 75 South. No injuries reported. • A theft was reported in the 3400 block of Old Houston Road. Unknown suspect(s) used another person’s identification information. Night Shift – June 7-8 • A three-vehicle crash was reported in the 1700 block of Sycamore Avenue. Three taken to Huntsville Memorial Hospital with minor injuries. • An assault was reported in the 100 block of Interstate 45 South. • Elbert Rogers was arrested in a child support warrant. • Robbie Bell was arrested on municipal warrants. • Dana Calderone was arrested for assault, and interference. • Jason Rash was arrested for assault. Day Shift – June 8 • A stolen motorcycle was reported in the 1300 block of Smithers Drive. • Criminal mischief was

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reported in the 5000 block of Sam Houston Avenue. Suspect damaged victim’s motorcycle in attempted theft. A stolen motorcycle was reported in the 5000 block of Sam Houston Avenue. The Walker County Sheriff ’s Office later recovered the vehicle abandoned out of gas in the 100 block of Interstate 45. A theft was reported in the 1700 block of 11th Street. A theft was reported in the 2500 block of Sam Houston Avenue. A two-vehicle crash was reported in the 2300 block of Sam Houston Avenue. No injuries reported. A stolen motorcycle was reported in the 2300 block of Lake Road. A burglary of a vehicle was reported in the 900 block of Avenue N. A two-vehicle crash was reported in the intersection of 11th Street and Normal Park. Preston Herron was arrested for theft.

Night Shift – June 8-9 • A theft was reported in the 2300 block of Sam Houston Avenue. Suspect pumped gas into vehicle and left without paying. • Kaylin Guest was arrested for theft. • Shannon Menefield was arrested on a theft warrant. • Ashly Johnson was arrested for driving while intoxicated. • Timothy York was arrested for public intoxication. Day Shift – June 9 • A one-vehicle crash was reported in the intersection of State Highway 19 and Interstate 45. No injuries were reported. • A burglary of a vehicle was reported in the 3000 block of State Highway 30. Night Shift – June 9-10 • A theft was reported in the 1200 block of 11th Street. • Manuel Wiley was arrested for public intoxication. • Joshua Pitman was arrested for public intoxication.

Page 2 Tuesday, June 11, 2013 houstonianonline.com/news

Entertainment Review

‘Kinky Boots’ walks away with top musical awards RICHARD MCKINNEY Contributing Reporter

Doogie Howser, Marilyn Monroe, and Matthew Perry’s Counselor are singing a song about canceled TV shows. No, this isn’t the set up of some bad joke, it’s actually the Tony Awards. For those of you not involved in the ever-growing world of theatre, this is like the Oscar’s for Broadway. The night began Neil Patrick Harris doing the scheduled musical number to introduce, and subsequently joke about, the past year in Broadway. For his fourth time hosting the event, Harris always finds a way to keep things interesting throughout the entire show. His quick quips offer a sting and sass that many award hosts could only attempt. As is customary, there were performances by all of the musicals nominated for the coveted Best Musical category. Introducing the performances were costumed, incharacter from other current running Broadway shows, no one knows why. I would urge that this never happen again. It was confusing and unnecessary. Bring It On: The Musical was in full swing – and yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. I would personally like to congratulate the kids of Matilda The Musical for showing the entire country how talented our young theatre actors can be. Combining these with the performances with the others, there was something for any type of lover of theatre. Kinky Boots ended up walking away with the title of Best Musical, along with Tony’s for Best Choreography and Best Original Score, with music and lyrics by 80s idol Cyndi Lauper. Award-Winners ranged from newcomers to seasoned veterans. Among them, 79 year-old Cicely Tyson won the Tony for Best Actress in a play for her in The Trip to Bountiful. Add a drag queen and a

circus ringleader to the list of winners and you have a full night event. Then, of course, Neil Patrick Harris returns at the end to finish out the show with a rap recap of the night’s events. Overall, the Tony Awards were a phenomenal spectacle that really showed audiences what can be done in the theatre.

TONY AWARD WINNERS Best Musical ‘Kinky Boots’

Evan Agostini/Invision/AP

BOOTS MADE FOR DANCIN’. Billy Porter winner of the Tony award for best actor in a musical, left, performs a number with fellow nominee Stark Sands and the cast of “Kinky Boots”.

Best Play

‘Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike’

Best Lead Actor in a Musical Billy Porter, ‘Kinky Boots’ Best Lead Actress in a Musical Patina Miller, ‘Pippin’ Best Lead Actor in a Play Tracy Letts, ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’

Best Lead Actress in a Play

Cicely Tyson, ‘The Trip to Bountiful’

Page 3

Viewpoints

Tuesday, June 11, 2013 houstonianonline.com/viewpoints

Too much security means none for parents on new social media

STEPHEN GREEN Editor-in-Chief

Many are turning from “sharing” on social media giant Facebook to “exploring” on photo sharing application Instagram. This move could lead to many problems with America’s youth. Traditional social media like Twitter, Facebook and Google Plus inhabit a saturated market

of conversation. Though slowly, users are starting to spring a leak. Social media tracking company SocialBakers found in early December 2012, 1.7 million users jumped ship. Many of those are now turning to more rapid sharing social medias like Instagram, Kik, Keek, Vine and Snapchat. Instagram is the most like traditional social media allowing users to comment and like their favorite images. Kik and Snapchat are basic messaging applications that have no permanent user interaction. In addition, it’s an interaction between only two individuals, or group texts. Definitely not easily seen by outside eyes. Parents – you have been warned. Kik and Snapchat on their own are harmless ways for teens to send funny pictures to each other. However, there is a down side.

Traditional social media has a type of permanency where parents can log in and see what their teen has been up to, or can check in from their own accounts. Things don’t easily disappear. The only way parents can make sure nothing fishy is going on with their children when using the new social media is to literally stand behind them while it’s being used. Snapchat messages aren’t visible once the time expires on the pictures and Kik messages are easily erasable. Unfortunately, underage children are being exposed to adult themes at younger ages. Twitter’s Vine (video) service, another up-and-coming service, has been under scrutiny as being an outlet for porn. Thanks to Tumblr, Snapchat has gotten attention for this after a classy page called “Snapchat Sluts” (since shutdown) showed pictures

girls sent over the app in different stages of undress. Survata.com, a web-survey group, studied 18 to 29-yearolds to assess how much they sext. Not surprisingly, almost a quarter of respondents said they’ve done so through text and more than 13 percent said they do it on Snapchat. It’s reasonable to estimate that Kik has the same, if not worse problems because it’s so similar to text messaging. Parents first wanted their children to have more privacy online, which is a reasonable request. However, increased privacy controls that are default in these new forms of social media make it extremely difficult to find others. This is an excellent feature for protection from pedophiles or stalkers, but not good for parents. It’s hard to be big brother if their children remotely set the privacy settings. Parents can feel safe

Apple invented online radio! How do they keep coming up with this stuff?

Kassidy Turnpaugh | The Houstonian

knowing random users can’t easily access their kids profiles, but they need to be aware that it becomes more difficult to monitor their behavior. Instagram does protect users from pornographic material due to younger ages. But these applications have other issues aside from the X-rated material. They further inhibit personal communication. Seems counterintuitive but communication experts say social media breaks down the ability for children to communicate person-to-person. At the point all children have to do is snap a picture or video, or type a quick message it’s easy to lose touch with reality. This sounds far-fetched but it’s what happened when texting popped up. People of all ages are texting more then calling someone on the phone than ever before. Traditional forms of social media still provided a variety of communication methods with video, images, written, instant chat, groups, lists, forums, discussion boards, etc. It also allowed users to find each other easily. This isn’t to say that the applications aren’t without their merit and should be abolished from tween use. They are an incredibly user-friendly way for kids to stay in touch with their friends without running up the phone bill. Online communication is the wave of the future so it is important for parents to allow their children some form of access to these devices and applications so they aren’t falling behind their peers. The best thing for parents to do is to keep in touch with their children and ask questions. Make sure their children are aware of the dangers of the Internet, but not to restrain them too much. The online world is a gateway to creativity. Parents need to be aware of the risks involved but also not to be afraid to let their children explore the tools on the new horizon.

Generation Y don’t you care?

Death penalty is expensive, prevents possibility of redemption

ANTHONY ORMSBEE Columnist For the past few nights, I have been up late with a sick puppy. The good thing about this is that I have been able to watch the moon and the stars over the past few nights. It reminds me of my childhood and all of the camping trips with friends. This past Sunday, I met a man that went seventeen years,

eight months and one day without seeing the dark of night and the light of the moon. Juan Melendez was sentenced to death in Florida for first degree murder. The evidence against him consisted of witness testimony that was loosely connected to each other. Needless to say, Juan protested his innocence without success and spent close to 18 years on death row. DNA testing proved his innocence and now Juan travels the world speaking against the death penalty. Juan spoke to me about the relationships he formed there with serial rapists, murderers, and people that would make the hair stand up on the back of my neck. But for Juan, they were neighbors. These men lived together, worked out together, cried together, and prayed together. I was

EDITOR’S NOTE Articles and views by Houstonian staff members or others in this paper are their own and not the opinion of the Houstonian, unless it is noted as such. Submissions and letters to the editor are welcome. Please send viewpoints to mjones@houstonianonline. com. Articles may be edited for grammar and spelling at discretion of editor. Deadline for submission is by 5 p.m. on Mondays, or Wednesdays.

overwhelmed by the emotion, passion, and love that was in Juan’s voice when he spoke of his incarcerated family. This was really the first time I ever thought about the death penalty. I live in Huntsville, death capitol of Texas. Honestly, we should think about it every day but most of us are sheltered in our life of campus activities, class projects, and the ignorance that just miles away people are killed with a simple injection of chemicals. There are two reasons I oppose the death penalty. I believe that the murder of a person separates that person from the promise of redemption and grace given to us by God. I believe that every person is capable of change and progress. I understand that some people are mentally

unstable and prohibited from working towards that progress on their own but for the most part we are capable of becoming better people. Even though a person committed a terrible act, killing them does not allow them the option to reform and make progress. It tells people that we are unworthy of a second chance. Secondly, the cost of killing people is expensive! Did you know that the average cost of a death row case is about 2.3 million dollars? That includes the appeals process. That doesn’t even begin to count the money we spend on housing, security, and other accommodations. There are currently 221 people on death row; that is a combined estimated legal cost of $508,300,000. If Texas abolished the death penalty and used that money to pay for college

education, the state could have paid the way for 8,411 Bearkats to complete their undergrad degree (based on the average semester cost with degree completed in four years.) Keep in mind that this is all the legal fees spent on death row inmates. We still haven’t touched housing, medical and other cost but I am a sociology major not an economics major so we will not go there today. I am not writing this because I want you to think the way I do. But I do want you to think! Do your own research, have conversations, question everything. Our age does not exempt us from becoming involved in the way our state conducts business, especially when that business is killing people on our behalf! - Anthony is a sociology major at SHSU.

The Houstonian Editorial

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stephen Green....................................................................................936-294-1505 FACULTY ADVISOR Robin Johnson....................................................................................936-294-1499 SECTION EDITORS

The Houstonian was named in the top 100 college newspapers for journalism students by JournalismDegree. org. Members of Associated Collegiate Press and Texas Intercolligiate Press Association.

Molly Waddell.................................................................................Associate Editor Misti Jones....................................................................................Viewpoints Editor Cody Lewis...........................................................................................Sports Editor TBA............................................................................................Entertainment Editor TBA...........................................................................................................Web Editor Kassidy Turnpaugh........................................................................Graphic Designer STAFF TBA....................................................................................................Sports Reporter Jay Jordan.......................................................................................Senior Reporter TBA............................................................................................Multimedia Reporter TBA..........................................................................................................Copy Editor TBA.................................................................................................Web Programmer

Advertising BUSINESS MANAGER Paty Mason......................................................................................936-294-1500 STAFF Stacy Hood...........................................................................Advertising Manager

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CORRECTION In the Houstonian’s Best of Huntsville awards, Bearkat Tan was named the ‘Best Tanning Salon’ in Huntsville in error. The salon named has been closed for more than a year and should have been disqualified. Mystic Rays tanning salon will be noted as the winner of this category. The Houstonian apologizes for the error and any inconvenience.

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