The Independant Student Newspaper of Sam Houston State University Vol 117— Issue 13
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Theatre, Page 5 Basketball, Page 6
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
Photo courtesy of Michael Brosilow
INDEX
News..........................page 4
Viewpoints.................page 2
Entertainment............page 5
Special.......................page 3
Sports.........................page 6
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Worlpal: Connecting Students from around the world Kats’ kicker launches new social media site with more privacy By Lauren Adkins Contributing Writer
Social media networks have taken over the world. Most people could not go a day without accessing their Facebook, Twitter, or Myspace account. Many people would rather socialize over the Internet than in person. This can form a problem because it takes away the sense of privacy that can be shared between two people and social networks are not as secure as they claim to be. For Junior Computer Science major, Matthew Foster, these are the reasons why he created worlpal.com, for those who desire a more private way to communicate online. “I wanted to create something that was fully private where you can meet students from around the world,” Foster said. “The idea is sort of like meeting someone randomly somewhere like at the store or at a mixer and becoming friends.” Worlpal is similar to Facebook and Twitter, but much more private. This is how it works: Every time you update your status, one person randomly selected will appear under your update.
RIDD WEEK SHSU E-MAIL UPDATE
The Sam Houston parking garage at 1730 Ave. I will be closed to the public and hourly parking on Tuesday to provide reserved guest parking for The Investiture of University President Dana L. Gibson. Garage contract parkers will continue to park in their assigned garage space as they normally do. Hourly parkers may park in the Bowers Stadium lot at no charge for the day. For more information contact the Parking and Transportation Office at parktrans@shsu.edu or call 936-294-1790. MARDI GRAS
Campus to get a taste of Jambalaya Cajun Band By Stephen Green Viewpoints Editor
Photo courtesy of Matthew Foster
WELCOME TO WORLPAL. Australian study abroad student and Computer Science major, Matthew Foster, developed his new social media site as a more private way for students to communicate about their college experiences across America and around the world.
You can see their profile and decide whether you want to become pen-pals. If you decline a person, then you will never see their profile again. If you do both choose to become friends, you will be able to message one another and comment on each others updates. The account user decides what information a person is
allowed to see and if a person is not friends with another person, their information is completely anonymous. “I got rid of my social network account because I didn’t like how people could just see all your information,” said Foster, who is also studying abroad from Australia. “So I thought about being able to meet people randomly
and make an interaction with each person while still having privacy and limiting the information that people could see. So I drew up a little sketch of how it would look and had ideas about making it just for students.” According to Foster, some early effects of the site were that people tried to compare Worlpal to other sites and wanted to be able to do the
same things on Worlpal as they do on other social networking sites. But Foster knew that keeping things private meant keeping information between two friends, not providing the opportunity for anyone else to contribute to the conversation.
— See WORLPAL, page 3
From the bayou of St. Martin’s parish in Louisiana came one of the most influential and popular Cajun bands in history. Next door in Erath, La., came the “Cajun Hank William’s.” Now, with Mardi Gras around the corner, the Jambalaya Cajun Band and Doris Leon “D.L.” Menard will come together to teach the students of Sam Houston State University about the Cajun culture on March 3. The event is free to attend for those with Bearkat OneCards and $10 for those who don’t, the symposium beforehand — See CAJUN, page 3
TEXAS INDEPENDENCE
University Marches to the Grave Kats celebrate Texas hero’s birthday with annual tradition
By Kolby Flowers Senior Reporter
Mike Silva | The Houstonian
BEARKAT TRADITION. Sam Houston State students, led by the SHSU Army ROTC, marched from Austin Hall to the gravesite of Sam Houston yesterday morning in an annual ceremony that honored the Texas icon’s 218th birthday, which also coincides with Texas Independence Day. There were several speakers and organizations at the event including Huntsville Mayor, J. Turner
Students gathered at the grave site of General Sam Houston yesterday morning to celebrate his birthday, March 2. The ceremony started with the traditional march to Houston’s grave site at Oakwood cemetery from Austin Hall. Students and other attendees were led down University Avenue by SHSU ROTC members to the site of the grave. Ryan Bridges, student body president, said the celebration is something that is very special for him. “It was very significant
for me,” said Bridges. “My family was part of the original German immigration to Texas in the 1840s and my grandparents down the line actually fought at the Battle of San Jacinto.” Bridges was also invited to speak at the event where he told students and other attendees how proud he was to be at a university with Houston’s name on it. “Its kind of fitting for me that I would be graduating from a university with the namesake of the person who led the Texas Revolution,” said Bridges. “I’m so proud to be a part of this university and everyone who attends this school should feel that same pride.”
Other festivities included commemorating the 175th anniversary of Texas’ Independence at the Sam Houston Statue and Visitor’s Center. After the event at the grave site, the ceremony moved to the Sam Houston Memorial Museum where Bear Bend Cabin was dedicated in Houston’s honor. Bear Bend Cabin was where Sam Houston often stayed while bear hunting, according to Museum Marketing Coordinator Megan Buro. The cabin is currently being restored and upon completion will open to the public and incorporated into the museum tours.
HONORING VETERANS
Congressman recognizes Sgt. Virgil LaRue By Hugo Lopez
Contributing Reporter
More than 500 people attended the 2011 Bataan Memorial Death March Dinner Tuesday evening at the Veterans Conference Center. This dinner, organized by SHSU ROTC instructor Maj. James Ross, took place as a fundraiser in order to send WWII Bataan Death March survivor Sgt. Virgil LaRue, a team of ROTC instructors and cadets to White Sands NM, where the Bataan Death March reenactment takes place annually.
In 1941, LaRue was stationed with the US Army 200 Coast Artillery in the Philippines. He and his unit fought the Imperial Japan forces from Dec. 7, 1941 until April 9, 1942 as second in command Maj. Gen. Edward P. King, Jr., was forced to surrender his soldiers as they were low in ammo and had almost no food and supplies. The Japanese then forced more than 11,000 American soldiers to march more than 60 miles in 12 days with no water or food. Those who slowed down, tried to drink water or aid their fellow battle buddy were killed by the Japanese
soldiers. SHSU History Professor Caroline Crimm, PhD, gasped the audience by giving a speech that placed the listeners in LaRue shoes during WWII. “It’s an honor to pass the torch, stories of hardships, strength and courage to fellow young students.” said Crimm. Congressman Kevin Brady sent a representative to the dinner to award the Prisoner of War Medal to LaRue. “It’s an honor to know you, it’s an honor to have served you, it’s an honor to have represented you said Ross. Six members of Sigma Chi, 12 members of Kappa
Sigma and 10 members of Alpha Delta Pi volunteered to help out in this event along with eight ROTC cadets who attended this event to show their support. Several items were also auctioned to help raise funds such as a shadow box containing a signed image of UT Austin and Earl Campbell that sold for $150. Other items that were auctioned included a book about the Bataan Death March that sold for $160, a Photo courtesy Amber Trent quilt that sold for $200 and a serviceable M1 Carbine, with WAR HERO. WWII Bataan Death March survivor Sgt. Virgil LaRue a 30 round magazine that (above) with his son (left) was honored by Congressman Kevin Brady and sold for $525. the community at the ROTC Team LaRue fundraiser Tuesday evening.
Viewpoints
Page 2 Thursday, March 3, 2011
houstonianonline.com/viewpoints
Comedy Corner All cartoons courtesy of creators.com.
High cost of free speech Paws Up, Steven Perry discusses protests at military funerals, right to free speech
It has long As Chief Justice been said that Roberts wrote freedom isn’t in the majority free. This ideal o p i n i o n , was once again “Speech is proven true powerful. It can yesterday in stir people to the Supreme action, move Court decision them to tears in Snyder v. of both joy and Phelps. The sorrow, and -Court ruled eight as it did here to one that public -- inflict great expressions of pain.” Speech is Steven Perry speech in protests Recurring columnist what allows us to are protected, paint our vision even when the message is of the future, it’s why we inflammatory. can stand and discuss what’s For over twenty years, the best for our country in an Westboro Baptist Church open and public forum. has protested at military So, for a moment, let me funerals across the country express my free speech: On against government policies one hand, it sickens me to they believe promote know that I live in a society homosexuality, and I have where this kind of behavior to admit that I just don’t is protected, but on the other understand it. hand, I’m a little proud. It’s not often that I I’m proud to know I live don’t understand political in a country where anyone actions. But I can stand simply cannot and proclaim u n d e r s t a n d “I don’t understand their beliefs, how an matter how innocent no American can how horribly choose to stand soldiers can be held m i s g u i d e d at the funeral they may be. of one of our responsible for the I’m proud of fallen soldiers those men and and hold a sign abstract policies of women who proclaiming still choose “Thank God their government...” to don the for Dead uniform of our Soldiers” or country and “You’re Going to Hell.” stand up for freedom around I don’t understand how the world, even when they innocent soldiers can have seen what it can be be held responsible for used for. I’m proud for our the abstract policies of system of government that their government. I don’t stands for true freedom no understand how a group matter the consequences. that claims to represent a But maybe most of all, I’m merciful and forgiving God proud of our soldiers, like can stand and proclaim such Matthew Snyder, who lay hatred. down their lives in defense But there is something of something bigger than all in this horrible situation of us, in defense of the land I do understand: that free of the free. - Steven is a recurring political speech is one of the most powerful rights we possess. columnist for the Houstonian.
Why TX should join the festivities Stephen Green thinks that students and universities should have done more to celebrate Sam Houston and Texas’ 175th birthday On April 21, 1836, General Sam Houston and 910 men stormed an afternoon “siesta” that the Mexican army, led by General Santa Anna, was taking. In under 18 minutes, the Texan army had set their territory free. On March 2, 2011, I was in school, not off for Texas Independence Day, not off for Sam Houston’s birthday. Now, most would say that it would be useless for students to have a day off. I say we should join the party. Louisiana State University is getting three days off for Mardi Gras. Technically, it is something of a religious holiday. Mardi Gras means “Fat Tuesday” when translated into French. The day is supposed to be last of 40 days before Lent to eat rich, fatty foods. According to data on www.thearda.com, only 35.3 percent of the population
r e g i s t e r days to weeks. themselves as It typically ends a religion that with a massive traditionally parade with over follows the the top attire, and Lenten period. let’s not forget the So, now that alcohol. we’ve excused I say we join 74.7 percent the party. As of the class for long as states a holiday that are around the doesn’t apply country are letting to them, they students out to are supposed not celebrate Stephen Green to convince the Viewpoints Editor what they should remainder to be, I say Texas practice Lent in the traditional should lead the way. We do sense. everything else big, why not So there goes the religious Sam’s birthday? holiday argument. Not many Another thing I felt was people use this holiday for handled incorrectly was our its traditional purpose. Even attempt at honoring two those who declare themselves holidays. The busiest time in religions that practice Lent on campus is between 10 don’t always practice it. and one. Scheduling the only For those who don’t know, celebration, the March to Mardi Gras in Louisiana Sam Houston’s Grave, at 11 and Southeast Texas that has was in the least an epic fail. become a festival of nonThis should be a bigger, stop drinking and eating for more publicized holiday.
Obviously we will never get to the stage that Mardi Gras is, but I think our university, out of anyone, should do more. The march is a start, but we did virtually nothing to celebrate Independence Day. There were no local parades, inadequate university ceremonies and no fair. Fairs are what Texas is all about; food, music, beer, etc. and there weren’t any. My family has resided in Texas since its founding as a territory and it makes me sad that we don’t take more pride in living in such a great state. I challenge Sam Houston State University and its students to better honor our state and Sam Houston next year. Or, in the least, take a lesson from Louisiana, and join the party. - Stephen is the Houstonian Viewpoints editor.
The Houstonian Editorial
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Tuesday’s Issue............... Friday at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday’s Issue........... Tuesday at 2:00 p.m.
Paws Down “Paws UP” to the Women’s basketball team for beating the SFA Lumberjacks 76-66 on Sam Houston’s birthday,
“Paws DOWN” to the parking garage for being closed on Tuesday, March 8, for the entire day.
Letter: Time for some reform It’s clearly time for credible drug law reform (Proposed Texas Marijuana Bill Could Lessen Possession Penalties, Mar. 1, 2011) and at the very minimum that means decriminalizing the relatively safe, extremely popular God-given plant cannabis (marijuana). Another reason to decriminalize cannabis that doesn’t get mentioned is because it is Biblically correct since God, The Ecologician, indicates He created all the seed bearing plants saying they are all good, on literally the very first page (see Genesis 1:1112 and 29-30). The only Biblical restriction placed on cannabis is to accept it with thankfulness (1 Timothy 4:1-5). It’s clearly time for
credible drug law reform (Proposed Texas Marijuana Bill Could Lessen Possession Penalties, Mar. 1, 2011) and at the very minimum that means decriminalizing the relatively safe, extremely popular God-given plant cannabis (marijuana). Another reason to decriminalize cannabis that doesn’t get mentioned is because it is Biblically correct since God, The Ecologician, indicates He created all the seed bearing plants saying they are all good, on literally the very first page (see Genesis 1:1112 and 29-30). The only Biblical restriction placed on cannabis is to accept it with thankfulness (1 Timothy 4:1-5).
- Stan White lives in Dillon, Colorado.
Tech talk: iPad 2
makes the first obsolete Apple yesterday unveiled the iPad 2 rendering my current iPad 1 obsolete. No complaints from this guy however. A devout worshiper of all things Apple, I now have the soul-searching task of paying off my credit card to purchase Apple’s newest tablet and purchase it, I will. Even now as I write this column, I’m simultaneously using Facebook and Twitter to sell my current iPad so that I may buy the new iPad on March 11. Apple’s newest iPad is full of new features, but my favorite would be the addition of the front and rear camera. I’m a huge supporter of video chatting which will now be available via Apple’s Facetime chat (which I’ve never had the experience of using) and reportedly through the Skype App. With the cameras comes the ability to record videos and take pictures. The iPad 2 will have a Photobooth app, much like its predecessor the Mac ,as well as iMovie to create actual movies. Apple gave its new device a Dual-Core A5 Chip. This means it will be twice as fast. It also means super fast graphics in games and other graphic-heavy apps.
Battery life remains the same however with 10 hours, but with my current iPad it takes forever for it to die. Perhaps the second coolest feature, in my opinion, is the new Smart Cover designed just for the iPad 2. The cover has magnetic technology which protects the front of the screen. When you place the cover on the iPad, it will go to sleep. It awakens the instant you reveal any part of the screen. The iPad 2 is also 33 percent thinner and 15 percent lighter than its predecessor. The original iPad measured 0.5 inches thick and weighed 1.5 pounds. This new iPad measures at 0.34 inches thick and weighs 1.33 pounds. In my last column about Apple, I encouraged everyone to buy the new iPhone on Verizon. Now I’m encouraging you to buy the new iPad. Apple is always a step ahead of its competitors and it proves it again with the iPad. Apple’s device sells at the same price as the iPad 1 starting at $499 and ending at $829. - Written by Kolby Flowers is the Houstonian Senior Reporter.
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. Stephen Green Viewpoints Editor sgreen@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) 294-4864. The Houstonian is a member of the Associated Press.
News
Page 3 Thursday, March 3, 2011
Relay season to kick off with carnival
houstonianonline.com/news
By Erin Peterson Associate News Editor
Students will have the opportunity to win prizes and begin to “Change the Channel on Cancer” during the Relay for Life Kick Off this evening. Colleges Against Cancer is hosting the Relay for Life Kickoff, complete with games, prizes and registration information from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the LSC Ballroom. “Kick Off is a time for students, faculty and staff to come out and learn about how they can join in the fight against cancer, register
Today in History - 1585 - Olympic Theater inaugurated in Vicenza - 1845 - Florida admitted as 27th state - 1857 - Second Opium War: France and UK declare war on China - 1861 - Alexander II of Russia signs the Emancipation Manifesto, freeing serfs - 1875 - Carmen premieres in Paris - 1885 - American Telephone and Telegraph Company is incorporated in New York - 1910 - J.D. Rockerfeller announces retirement from managing his businesses to devote all his time philanthropy - 1923 - TIME magazine published for the first time - 1931 - US officially adopts “The StarSpangled Banner” as its national anthem - 1938 - Oil discovered in Saudi Arabia - 1939 - Mohandas Ghandi begins to fast in protest of the autocratic rule in India - 1969 - NASA launches Apollo 9 to test the lunar module - 1974 - Turkish Airlines Flight 981 crashes at Ermenonville near Paris, killing all 346 on board - 1985 - Magnitude 8.3 earthquake strikes the Valparaiso Region of Chile, killing 177 - 2005 - Steve Fossett becomes the first person to fly an airplane non-stop around the world solo without refueling
From WORLPAL page 1
However, Foster did add a notification that allows two friends to comment on one anthers updates, but the comments aren’t meant to be a form of back and forth communication. “I liked the idea of making it meaningful so users would only get one update a day, and when they did they would meet a certain amount of random people,” Foster said. “I like the idea that I could meet someone that has the same major as
From CAJUN page 1
will take place in the Evans Complex, Room 105. Terry Thibodeaux, Ph.D, professor of communication studies and self-professed Cajun, said that part of the reason he invited the group on campus is to speak to the Texas Crossroads class taught by Gene Young. “When we started the class, we were looking to bringing as many influences in this area of Texas,” Thibodeaux said. “There is a strong Cajun influence in Southeast Texas. We often get Cajuns around Huntsville and Houston.” The class, Thibodeaux said, gets its name from the fact that Huntsville lies on the edge of the plains and the piney woods area. “It’s the same thing
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
WALK IT OFF. During last year’s relay for life, SHSU raised more than $30,000 for the American Cancer Society. The goal for this year, themed “Change the Channel on Cancer,” is $40,000. teams and purchase luminaria bags,” said Kalyn Cavazos, Relay for Life event chair. “Our 2011 Relay For Life Kick Off will be a carnival themed event with tons of
games and prizes and free food.” Last year, the university community raised over $30,000 for the American Cancer Society. This year’s
goal is $40,000. The Relay For Life kickoff will have the same kind of atmosphere as the actual event, so participants who have never attended can come and find
about cancer, nutrition and different ways to stay active. “I think this is a really fun event,” said sophomore Melva Gomez, “I like that they showed us that there are different ways of staying healthy, especially with spring break coming up,” she said. This week’s events included a presentation on Monday from the American Cancer Society and Colleges Against Cancer to teach students the impact of alcohol and drugs and their chances of developing cancer. On Tuesday, RIDD events focused on teaching students about binge drinking, blood alcohol level and serving sizes, some of the most important things to learn about according to Roseanne
Keathely, ADAI coordinator. “The turnout has been huge so far and that’s what we want,” said Keathley. This week’s events have been a collective effort of several professors and advertising to involve other organizations and departments in order to expose students to the variety of resources available on campus she said. Today, the Greeks will lead the events as Omega Delta Phi and Lambda Theta Alpha host “Greek Carnival: Brothers and Sisters against Drunk Driving,” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the LSC mall to promote safe drinking. At 6 p.m., Alpha Tau Omega will present a video in the LSC Theater about the dangers and treatment of alcohol poisoning.
out what to expect, according to Lisa Joyner, entertainment chair for Relay for Life. “If you are someone who wants to help make a difference Relay For Life can help you achieve this goal,” Cavazos said. “Together, each Bearkat can make a difference, and we can come together as a campus community to help fundraise for such a worthy cause.” This year’s Relay for Life will be held on April 29, from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. at Bowers stadium. For more information, contact Cavazos at krc021@ shsu.edu or visit www.relayforlife.org/samhoustontx.
RIDD Week focuses on students’ health, habits By George Mattingly Contributing Reporter With spring break approaching, the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Initiative encourages students to Reduce Irresponsible Drinking and Drug use through this week’s events aimed at educating students on how to make responsible decisions. The health and kinesiology department, recreational sports, counseling center, and other local businesses set up booths at Wednesday’s health fair as a part of RIDD week to educate students on the dangers of drugs and alcohol, while encouraging them to stay healthy through fun and games. The fair included a variety of booths including some
Today’s events are especially important for students to attend with spring break just around the corner. Friday’s activities will focus on several types of addictions including drug, alcohol and food addictions and the counseling center will discuss the different causes and behaviors associated with each. “Although 65 percent of students don’t consume alcohol, they can help by sharing the things they’ve learned with other students and raise awareness about making responsible decisions. To find out more about RIDD week, visit http:// www.shsu.edu/~org_aai/ or contact Rosanne Keathley at 936-294-1171.
STUDENT GOVERNMENT UPDATE In Tuesday’s meeting, the Student Government Association passed two pieces of legislation and tabled another two. The first piece of legislation of the night was Senate Bill S11-02: Freshmen Council and Mentorship Program, which was tabled for the time being. This bill would create the Freshmen Council, which would be responsible for “writing legislation directly related to freshmen, publishing and tabling to increase freshmen participation in SGA and other campus organizations, as well as host town hall meetings for freshman about important issues and other events directly for freshmen.” Also, members of the Freshmen Council would be paired with a mentor from either the senate or the executive board. This bill was tabled for the time being, as members of the senate and executive board questioned whether or not the
bill was necessary given the current responsibilities of the senators and the current mentor program already in place. The second bill of the evening was Senate Bill S11-03: Bearkat Equal Protection and Opportunity Act, which passed unanimously. Under the legislation, SGA is to “urge the Division of Student Services to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in the Student Guidelines handbook, specifically under the section ‘Student Organizations Policy’,” effective immediately. In addition, “sexual orientation is to be listed under discrimination elements.” The third piece of legislation for the evening was Senate Bill S11-04: “It’s Too Big,” which passed. Under this bill, when adding parking to campus, the university would be required to “take into consideration bigger spaces for
bigger vehicles, making parking spaces standardized to meet state regulations.” Due to time constraints, the last piece of legislation for the evening, Senate Bill S11-05: The Wake Up Act, was tabled for next Tuesday’s meeting. Under this bill, “all senators of SGA would be required to write, co-write or sponsor and submit to the Department of Internal Affairs no less than one piece of legislation per long semester. Failure to write, co-write or sponsor one piece of legislation during any long semester will prohibit that senator from holding office the following long semester.” In addition, SGA voted in several chairs to the SGA Election Commission: Ruby Guerra from the College of Fine Arts and Mass Communication; Ren Kiser from the College of Education; Genie Rudolph from the College of Criminal Justice; and Richard Trottier from the College of Sciences.
myself another university and be able to share what I have been learning or how hard I am finding some classes.” Sophomore Brian Bell is a Worlpal member and loves the site. He is also a member of Twitter and Facebook and believes that Worlpal is just as the two well-known media sites. “Matt told me about Worlpal and his ideas with it a while back,” said Bell. “It has always sounded like a good idea and now that I have tried it, I love it even more. Worlpal gives you the option to expand your
friend-base to each person’s comfort level. If you do not want to be pal’s with someone, you don’t have to be, it is as simple as that. I have had a couple of good conversations with people from Australia and Indiana. Everyone else I am friends with is from SHSU.” Foster’s main goal for Worpal is to give people the opportunity to meet students from across America and the world so that people can create friendships with
one another and share their college experiences and issues through short updates each day. He wants students to be able to meet students that they might not usually have the opportunity to meet base on their locations and the many different universities that there are. So for students who do not feel that some of the social networks out there are safe enough to be apart of, but still want to socialize with others online, Foster has developed
a private way to communicate over the Internet without the risk of being stalked. The site has proven to be reliable and as time goes on could quite possibly be one of the main social media sites used. “The more people that get on Worlpal the better,” Bell said. “It will continue to get more and more entertaining. Worlpal is a unique social network and the only way it will get better is with more people. So everyone here at SHSU needs to get with the next big thing in social networking. Worlpal is where it is at.”
culturally,” Thibodeaux said. “So I thought let’s talk about the Cajun culture.” The other reason Thibodeaux invited the band was because of Menard, who doesn’t play often, but plays with the Jambalaya Cajun Band when he does. “He is one of the most famous Cajun musicians around,” Thibodeaux said. “When I first thought about bringing a band on campus I wanted him. He is one of the best known and kind of an ambassador to Cajun music.” Terry Huval, band leader and member of the Cajun Music Hall of Fame, said that it’s an honor not only to be able to play with Menard and produce his music. “Menard has been playing Cajun music since the late ‘40s. He met Hank Williams when he was a teenager and it was an inspiration to him to write music. He and I
have been working together the past few decades.” Menard’s most recent album was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Cajun/Zydeco Album award. “Happy Go Lucky,” is a collaboration between Menard and other wellknown Cajun artists. Huval knew once they had started that the project was going places. “I have a recording studio in my house, we started getting together guest musicians and then as we kept going we saw that we had something special,” Huval said. “It was a remarkable complexion of our culture. Being there and watching the Grammy’s was a really special evening and event for us.” Although, Menard didn’t win, the group still plays the same way they did before. Huval said that he loves not only playing music here, but
to be able to speak to the class beforehand. “I think that the cultural diversity is a good thing for people to understand,” Huval said. “Cajun music, language and food all have a certain ambiance all their own. It provides students with a more well-rounded education about their neighbors.” Thibodeaux said the band will help clear up some questions often asked about the culture. “We often hear, ‘How do we come about having all these Cajuns in Southeast Texas?’” he said. “The band will talk about the history of the music and where the Cajun people and culture come from.” He wants the class to put rumors to rest about the culture that are often misconstrued. “A lot of time, what
students see on MTV makes them think that all Mardi Gras is,” Thibodeaux said. “There is more to it, and I think it’s important for students to learn the true meaning of Mardi Gras rather than what they hear.” Huval said the most amazing thing he has seen while performing has been the growth and acceptance of the culture all across the globe. “It was really noteworthy that people in other parts of the world picked up this music in such a profound way. We played a concert in Copenhagen, Denmark. Another thing has been how people have embraced the culture.” “It’s the music, the language, the food. People have accepted the music to a point to where they truly embraced the culture.”
Campus Calendar Thursday, March 3: - RIDD Week: “Greek Carnival: Brothers and Sisters against Drunk Driving” - 10 a.m. in the LSC mall area - Biology Lecture: Springsnails in the Southwest - 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in LDB 214 - Ars Perpetua: New music by SHSU student composer - 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the PAC Recital Hall - Relay for Life Kick Off 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the LSC Ballroom - RIDD Week: “Tell Me Something I Do Not Know” - 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LSC Theater - Chinese Film Showcase: “Beijing Bicycle” - 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in AB IV 220 - Percussion Group Performance - 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the PAC Concert Hall - Mardi Gras: Cajun Band 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in LDB Atrium Friday, March 4: - Deadline: Apply for Rural Internship - RIDD Week: “Addicted: Food, Drugs, Alcohol” - 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the LSC Mall Area - English Lecture: Middle England - 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Evans 417 - Faculty Composers’ Concert of New Works 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the PAC Recital Hall - Baseball v. Michigan 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Don Sanders Stadium - Intersection Concert 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the PAC Recital Hall - Dance: Thesis Concert 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the PAC Dance Theater Saturday, March 5: - President’s Investiture 5K and Fun Run - 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at Bowers Stadium - Bearkat All Paws In: Ivestiture Edition - “Paint the Town Orange” - LSC mall area - Sign-in at 8:30 a.m., kick-off at 9:15 a.m. - Baseball v. Mass. - 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Don Sanders Stadium - Men’s Basketball v. Texas State - San Marcos 7 p.m. at Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum - Chorale Concert - 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the PAC Concert Hall - Dance: Thesis Concert 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the PAC Dance Theater Sunday, March 6: - Baseball v. Michigan 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Don Sanders Stadium - Baseball v. Mass. 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Don Sanders Stadium - Recital: Tuba and Euphonium - 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the PAC Recital Hall Monday, March 7: - Robert Blocker Piano Recital - 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. - PAC Concert Hall - Investiture: Student Reception - 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the LSC Lobby - SQUAD UP 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the LSC Mall Area - Investiture: Opening Reception - 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in PAC 258
Become a fan on Facebook Follow us on Twitter @HoustonianSHSU Please recycle your copy of The Houstonian
THE INVESTITURE OF
Dr. Dana L. Gibson
S A M H O U S TO N S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y
Tuesday, March 8, 2011 Ceremony
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum
Reception
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Lowman Student Center Ballroom
STUDENT SERVICES PRESENTS:
Saturday, March 5th Presidential Investiture 5K & Fun Run 7:30 am, Bowers Stadium Please visit www.shsu.edu/studentactivities for details
Saturday, March 5th SGA Bearkat All Paws In - Investiture Edition 8:30 am, Bearkat Plaza Please visit www.shsu.edu/~org_sga for details
Monday, March 7th Presidential Investiture Student Reception 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, LSC Lobby & LSC Art Gallery
For more information contact Student Activities at 936.294.3861 or studentactivities@shsu.edu Sam Houston State University is A Member of The Texas State University System
Arts & Entertainment
Page 5 Thursday, March 3, 2011
houstonianonline.com/entertainment
The importance of “Expressing Yourself”
Musical teaches life lesson through story of hardship By Thomas Merka
Entertainment Editor
It pains me to admit that before I saw that “Billy Elliot The Musical” was coming to Houston I had never heard of it. I did my research, read the general synopsis and found out that it is set in England, which didn’t enthuse me. I’m not generally a fan of watching a show where everyone
What: “Billy Elliot The Musical”
When: Feb. 23 - March 13 Where: The Hobby
Center, 800 Bagby Street, Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77002
Tickets:
• www.tuts.com • 1-800-982-ARTS • 50% discount for students Visit www.tuts.com for more information.
has an English accent, but Billy Elliot was a huge exception. This show is truly fantastic. Being the theatre nerd I am, I tend to focus on things that many people do not consider when going to see a show. For instance, the set design of this show thrilled me. The way the set is constructed allows the stage to completely transform in a matter of seconds, transporting the audience from scene to scene seamlessly. Although this show is a musical, and the songs are fantastic, I was mesmerized more by the dancing. The amount of talent the young actor playing Billy Elliot possesses is aweinspiring. Enough about the technical, visual aspects of the show; let’s focus on the story itself. The story centers around 11 year old Billy. Motherless and living in the middle of family and community strife caused by the UK miner’s strike, Billy stumbles upon the world of ballet after boxing class one day and eventually trades in his boxing gloves for ballet shoes. As Billy struggles with his fear of what others will think of his newfound talent, the audience is taught a very important lesson:
never let others keep you from following your heart. When Billy faces rejection of his talent from his family, he decides to give up ballet and misses his chance at auditioning for a prestigious ballet school. After a heart-warming scene where Billy’s father has a change of heart, Billy finally auditions and makes it. Although Billy almost gave up on his dream, in the end it becomes a reality. Through Billy’s journey, we see that following your dreams pays off in the end. In all, “Billy Elliot The Musical” is a heart-warming comedy that will have you laughing hysterically and then crying your eyes out through the whole show. “Billy Elliot The Musical” will be playing at The Hobby Center in Houston Feb. 23 March 13. Tickets for the show are on sale and can be purchased at the Hobby Center Box office, by phone at 800-982-ARTS or online at www.tuts.com. One hour before each show, a student discount will be available for 50% off tickets when a valid student I.D. is presented. For more information visit www. tuts.com.
Music Billboard Hot 100 1. “Born This Way,” Lady Gaga 2. “Forget You,” Cee Lo Green 3. “Grenade,” Bruno Mars 4. “I Need A Doctor,” Dr. Dre 5. “Firework,” Katy Perry
Digital Songs 1. “Born This Way,” Lady Gaga 2. “Forget You,” Cee Lo Green 3. “I Need a Doctor,” Dr. Dre 4. “Never Say Never,” Justin Beiber 5. “Grenade,” Bruno Mars
Radio Songs 1. “Grenade,” Bruno Mars 2. “Firework,” Katy Perry 3. “Tonight,” Inrique Iglesias 4. “Born This Way,” Lady Gaga 5. “Hold It Against Me,” Britney Spears
Pop Songs 1. “Grenade,” Bruno Mars 2. “Tonight,” Inrique Iglesias 3. “Hold It Against Me,” Britney Spears 4. “Firework,” Katy Perry 5. “Perfect,” P!nk
R&B/Hip Hop
Country Songs
1. “Moment 4 Life,” Nicki Minaj 2. “6 Foot 7 Foot,” Lil Wayne 3. “Fall For Your Type,” Jamie Foxx 4. “Love Faces,” Trey Songz 5. “Pretty Girl Rock,” Kerri Hilson
1. “Who Are You When I’m Not Looking,” Blake Shelton 2. “Don’t You Wanna Stay,” Jason Aldean 3. “This is Country Music,” Brad Paisley 4. “Someone Else Calling You Baby,” Luke Bryan 5. “Back to December,” Taylor Swift
Visit www.houstonianonline.com for the latest entertainment news.
Photos courtesy of Michael Brosilow
FOLLOW YOUR DREAM. Top: The company of “Billy Elliot The Musical” join together to express their strife in regards to the UK Miner’s strike. Above: Billy passionately depicts his dreams of dancing through a dance choreographed to “Swan Lake.”
Original music and guest composers to come to SHSU By Thomas Merka
Entertainment Editor
The 49th annual Contemporary Music Festival will feature music from students and professional composers, Thursday through Saturday, in the Performing Arts Center. The Ars Perpetua Student Composition Concert and Fisher Tull Composition Award Ceremony will kick off the festival on Thursday, at 4:30 p.m. in the PAC Recital Hall. That evening, the music of guest composer Michael Byron will be featured in a performance by the SHSU Percussion Group beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the PAC Concert Hall. On Friday, guest composers Stefan Weisman and Byron will discuss their work in two lectures beginning at 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., respectively. Weisman’s discussion will be in Music Building room 201, followed by Byron’s in PAC room 240. Born in Chicago and growing up in Los Angeles, Byron began playing the
trumpet in second grade. He studied at the California Institute of the Arts and York University and his music has been released on Cold Blue Music, Meridian Records, Koch Records and New World Records. Weisman began playing the violin in grade school and attended Bard College before receiving degrees from Yale and Princeton universities. Wesiman has written chamber, orchestral, and choral pieces—as well as music for theater, video, and dance—and his works have been played by the Bang on a Can All Stars, Newspeak, the NOW Ensemble, So Percussion, the FLUX Quartet, the Miró String Quartet, Odd Appetite and many others. He currently lives in the Hell’s Kitchen area of New York City and teaches at the Bard High School Early College. Friday afternoon, both guest artists will work with students in a masterclass from 1:30-3 p.m. in Music Building room 219, followed by a concert featuring new works by SHSU faculty
composers beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the PAC Recital Hall. Finally, that evening, Intersection, the student new music collective, will present “Duo/Trio” at 7:30 p.m. in the PAC Recital Hall. The concert also will feature faculty cellist Daniel Saenz, guest artists Johnny Yang, Yenn Chwen Er, Huailun Liu and Yuri Saenz, and guest composer Christopher Wicks. The festival will culminate on Saturday with the SHSU Chorale performing “The Ecstasies Above” at 7:30 p.m. in the PAC Concert Hall. Admission is free for all of the concerts, except the SHSU Chorale concert on Saturday night, for which tickets are $15 for general admission and $12 for SHSU students and senior citizens. Tickets can be purchased through the PAC box office at 936.294.2339 or tickets@ shsu.edu.
For more information, call the School of Music at 936.294.1360.
Sports
Page 6 Thursday, March 3, 2011
houstonianonline.com/sports
twitter.com/HoustonianSport
Women’s basketball chases history Kats even up Piney Woods rivalry Victory clinched winning season, SHSU SHSU dominated paint in 55-40 win over SFA women’s first above .500 record since 1996
By Lotis Butchko Sports Reporter
HUNTSVILLE -- For only the third time, the Sam Houston State women’s basketball team will finish the season with a winning record in Division 1. The last two times were in 1988 when now Head coach Brenda Nicholls was a player, and 1996.
Winning 76-66 last night, the Kats clinched third place in conference going into Saturdays game against Texas State Bobcats. “I feel really good going into the game against Texas State,” said Nicholls. “Our AD Coach Williams has a good rivalry going with Texas State and it looks to be a good game.” The Kats spent most of the first half fighting with Stephen F. Austin’s offense, which lit them up in the first half. The Kats had to switch to a full court press defense to slow the Lumberjacks down, but still couldn’t stop them. “They just came out hot,” said Nicholls. In the second half, twoguard Britni Martin came alive. After focusing primarily on defense in the first half, she scored all of her team-high 18 points. “I felt like I was thinking about it too much in the first half,” said Martin. “I didn’t care what they did in the second half - I just shot it.” Martin’s points came off of five three pointers, a layup that started the second half, and one free throw. Along with Martin, junior point guard Khamra Echols added a double-double with 11 points and 10 assist. The Kats clawed their way back into the game, and were finally able to take their first lead since 11:59 in the first half, when Terrah Austin made a swift inside move, scored a layup plus one with 10:56 left to go in the game. Immediately following their first lead, Martin sunk a three pointer assisted by Echols to get the ball rolling. Both Echols and Martin were able to fill a big hole as guard Chanice Smith spent most of the second half on the bench due to foul trouble. Smith, despite her foul trouble, was able to add 13 points. “In the second half we
Kats axe Jacks, sort of
went in there and told them we have to do a better job of taking care of the little things,” Nichols said. “We weren’t taking care of our turnovers. When they were turning it over we weren’t making our layups. We missed the bunny shots from underneath and it was just a lack of focus of taking care of the little things. If we take care of the little things, the big things will come.”
Photos by Jessica Gomez
Just four outs away from earning a series sweep over Stephen F. Austin to start 2011 Southland play, the Bearkat softball team gave up three unearned runs in the bottom of the sixth as the Lumberjacks won 3-1 Wednesday at the SFA Softball Field. Sam Houston won the opening two games of the series in a doubleheader Tuesday by scores of 2-1 and 10-2. The Bearkats took a 1-0 lead in the third inning as Alyssa Coggins bunted and reached on an error by the first baseman. Coggins scored on a single by Alex Survant. The senior outfielder led Sam Houston at the plate Wednesday, going 2-for-4. After a pair of singles in the bottom of the sixth, a Bearkat error loaded the bases. Sam Houston got its first out with a force at home plate and earned the second on a pop foul ball. But Lauren Luetge tagged a shot to deep center fielder for a triple to bring in the winning runs for the Lumberjacks. Tomi Garrison produced another outstanding performance in the circle, spreading six hits over six innings and striking out four Lumberjacks. Stephen F. Austin upped its season record to 4-15 while Sam Houston dropped to 9-14 for the year with the loss. The Bearkats continue their Southland Conference road swing beginning a threegame series at Nicholls in Thibodaux, La., on Saturday. - SHSU Athletics provided this report
Jessica Gomez
The Houstonian
BOTH HANDS. Gilberto Clavell (above) led the way for the Bearkats with 17 points and 11 rebounds against the Lumberjacks
By Brandon Scott Sports Editor
Bearkats men’s hoops dominated the paint in a 55-40 win over SFA on Wednesday night in Nacogdoches. Gilberto Clavell led the way with 17 points and 11 boards. With Clavell’s tenacity down low, the Kats outscored SFA 34-16 in the paint and also dominated the boards, outrebounding SFA 34-19. “One of our goals tonight was winning the rebounding game,” said SHSU head coach Jason Hooten. From the opening tip, the SHSU got after it on the defensive side of the ball. SFA didn’t score its first points of the game until the 13:04 mark, finishing the first half with just 14 points on 33 percent shooting. The Bearkats gained some
momentum at the end of the first half when Lance Pevehouse knocked a fadeaway jumper at the buzzer to give the Kats a 26-14 lead at halftime. The Lumberjacks didn’t get 20 points on the scoreboard until there were 16 minutes left to play in the game. “I am really proud of the guys tonight,” Hooten said. “They came out and executed the way we wanted.” The Kats, like most of the season, didn’t shoot well from long range, hitting just 2-of-18. Still, they shot 52 percent from the floor, going 24-of-32 from inside the 3-point line. The victory puts the Kats in the Southland Conference Tournament which starts next week in Katy. The Kats will wrap up the regular season on Saturday at home against Texas State.
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