Welcome to our last issue of the 2020-2021 school year: our annual Coogs Choose. During March, we released a poll that had a variety of multiple choice and write-in questions about the UH community’s thoughts on all the best things about Houston and UH — from the areas of lifestyle, student life, entertainment, and food and drink. You all shared your voice, and this issue is a collection of the winners in each category and a few fun pieces to give some insight into some of the winners.
As you probably already know, UH and Houston can feel overwhelmingly huge sometimes. Even if you feel like you’re an expert on the culture here, it still can feel difficult to find exactly where you fit in on and off campus. We hope that this issue provides some valuable insight into the community’s favorite people and places, and that you can feel at least one step closer to making Houston feel like home to you.
Thanks for reading,
AUTUMN RENDALL, Executive EditorEDITORIAL
Autumn Rendall, Executive Editor
cooglife@thedailycougar.com
Juana Garcia, Creative Director of The Cougar ame@thedailycougar.com
HAYA PANJWANI
MICHAEL TAGGART
cooglife @cooglifemag
@cooglifemag
Assassin Tattoo
Located in Montrose, Assassin Tattoo is Coogs’ top choice to get some new ink in Houston. The shop specializes in a variety of art styles, and even offers custom work for their clientele.
Discovery Green and Hermann Park
Cactus Music
Supporting your local record store is a great way to spend a day. At Cactus Music in Montrose, customers can find a vast array of vinyl, CDs, cassette tapes, posters, collectibles, and much more to please the average music geek. Pursue the discount bins to try and find the next gem of your collection, or check out your favorite artists to see if their work is in stock.
Especially during the pandemic, an afternoon in the park can be the ideal way to spend time with friends, get some exercise or catch up on a good book. Discovery Green and Hermann Park are Coogs’ top choice for a park to spend a lovely day at, so check them out the next time we get some great weather!
2nd place: Eleanor Tinsley Park
Nan’s Games & Comics Too Bedrock City Comics
With both stores having a huge selection of comics to choose from, it’s no wonder both tied for Best Comic Shop! Check out the following page for tips on how to select the perfect comic for you on your next visit.
Buffalo Exchange
Shopping second hand for clothes is a great way to be kind to the planet and kind to your wallet. At Buffalo Exchange, you can find plenty of unique pieces, and even name brand items at a fraction of the price.
2nd place: Out of the Closet Thrift Store
Brazos Bookstore
Whether you’re an avid reader or still searching for the right book to turn you into one, Brazos Bookstore is the place to be. With helpful staff and a great selection of works across many genres, this book store is a slice of paradise located in Rice Village.
With its amazing collection of things to do, places to eat and shops to spend your money, there’s no shortage of things to do in Houston. Here’s Coogs’ top picks!Photo of Cactus Music by Tyler Scott
What’s up Coogs! For this year’s “Coogs Choose” one of the questions we asked was what’s your favorite comic book shop in Houston. And it seems that you were torn between two shops because surprisingly there was a tie! The most popular shops amongst voters were Nan’s Games & Comics Too and Bedrock City Comics. Both offer
With a huge selection of comics to read that span across decades and decades, getting into comic books can feel a little overwhelming. No need to fear, writer Michael Taggart has created this guide to selecting and shopping for the perfect comics for you.
a wide variety of merchandise ranging from classic sci-fi shows and horror movie figures to the latest in manga and comic series.
Aided by the rise of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies (MCU), comics and comic book shops have seen a huge uptick in popularity. And that got me thinking, what would it be like
for someone who has never been to a comic shop or who has never read a comic book before.
Looking from the outside in, the sheer number of comics, heroes and storylines must seem daunting and off-putting. Even for someone such as myself who has been frequenting comic book shops since I was a teenager, it can still be overwhelming. So, I thought I would write up some tips on how
to jump into comics in 2021.
The first thing I took into consideration was the fact that we are still very much in the middle of a pandemic. So, if you don’t feel comfortable going out to your local comic book shop then don’t. It’s just that simple. Besides, there are several options to read comics online and through your phone or tablet. If you are comfortable going to a shop, then here are
a few tips to help you navigate the world of comics.
My first bit of advice would be to keep an open mind! There are thousands of series, heroes, and universes to jump into so don’t be afraid to read or enjoy something that might be outside of your wheelhouse. If you are a fan of the Marvel or DC movies, then try looking for comics with characters that you recognize. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or ask for help from shop attendants. Most comic shops have a “Manager’s Pick” section in the shop. They highlight some of the most popular comics out today and some hidden gems that are overlooked. Don’t be afraid to read a comic just for the artwork or the narrative storytelling. You might find an artist or writer that you love. Check out their other works to explore new comics or genres.
Yes, there are a lot
of comics out there, going to a comic shop might seem like having your Netflix catalog come to life. But don’t let that discourage you! Because here is a secret...you don’t have to read all of them! Just pick one and go from there. If you do pick a comic and you’re feeling a bit lost because it’s in the middle of a storyline then check out the graphic novel. Graphic novels are great, typically they are an entire story arc or a year’s worth of comics collected into one book. So, you can always go back to start a story arc. If you find a hero or storyline that you like, chances are there are volumes of previous story arcs that you can always go back and read. Heroes like Spider-Man, Batman, and Wonder Woman have generations of storylines available to read with a multitude of spin-offs and restarts.
If you don’t feel up to going to your local comic shop or hoarding a giant comic collection in the future (trust me, it happens) then digital comics might be the route for you. There
Thank you to our students for confirming what we already knew –that Dr. Jason Marsack is a 1st class, 1st rate and 1st place educator!!
are 3 major comic book apps that you can check out, ComiXology, DC Universe Infinite and Marvel Unlimited. All 3 feature a free version of the app but if you want to get the most bang for your buck then the subscription model is the one for you.
They have over 25,000 digital comics in their collection, featuring comics from both Marvel and DC, while also featuring smaller publishers like Image and Dark Horse. They also have manga and graphic novels in their collection. If you aren’t a die-hard Marvel or DC fan, then ComiXology might be the app for you. It offers the best of both worlds.
Cost: There is a monthly plan that costs $7.99 plus tax or a yearly plan that costs $74.99 plus tax
For the die-hard Marvel fan, this app offers more than 28,000 digital comics. The app is very user-friendly, and the catalogs are meticulously maintained.
Cost: There is a monthly plan that runs for $9.99 plus tax or a yearly plan that costs $69 plus tax
For the die-hard DC fans, this app offers more than 25,000 digital comics. DC has some of the most iconic heroes and villains in the industry. Stories featuring Batman, The Joker, Superman, The Flash, Lex Luthor, and more are all here on DC Universe Infinite.
Cost: There is a monthly plan that is priced at $7.99 plus tax and a yearly plan that costs $74.99 plus tax.
I hope these tips help you and please don’t be afraid to explore comics. They are an incredible art form and an amazing medium for storytelling. Stay safe out there Coogs, until next time.
This second hand clothing shop chain with a Houston location in Montrose is a great place to find unique, stylish and even designer items at a fraction of their original cost. From one avid thrift shopper to another, here’s how to make the most out of your next trip to Buffalo Exchange.
Second hand shopping isn’t just a choice that’s good for the environment, but it can also be great for your wallet and style. After years of thrifting, and being an avid fan of Buffalo Exchange, here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
The great thing about Buffalo Exchange is how organized the store is, so if there’s a usual item or size you like to thrift for you can just head straight there. While it might be tempting to just stick to the area you usually go to, my advice is to look through every section of the store so you’re able to see each item. This hunt is how you can find the absolute gems, as opposed to just stumbling upon whatever caught your eye first. Also, you might fall in love with some item you didn’t expect to. Maybe you never search through the long dresses section just because they’re not really your style, but during your hunt you find the coolest pair of overalls!
Go into the store with a plan
While I do love some good spontaneous retail therapy, going to Buffalo Exchange with a plan of the kinds of items you’re looking for can help you really help you A) buy clothes you’ll actually wear and B) feel more grateful for the purchases you do make. Go through your closet at home and think about what pieces of clothing you feel are still missing from your wardrobe. A quality pair of go-to jeans? A denim jacket perhaps? Then once you go to Buffalo Exchange, you’ll really be on a mission to find the perfect items that you’ll be so excited about once you do.
Make sure you’re getting a good deal
Even though it’s a second hand store, so the items are cheaper than they would be at their original price, Buffalo Exchange’s prices are typically more expensive than a traditional thrift store due to the quality and relevance of the items. If you’re on a budget, and you want to make sure the items
of clothes you purchase are a solid deal, I suggest looking up the brand that’s on the tag and finding the original price of the item. Once I found a dress that originally ran for about $120, but at Buffalo Exchange it was only about $17.
Also, to make sure you get your money’s worth on whatever you buy, don’t purchase an item without thinking of at least a couple of things in your existing closet that you could pair with it. It can be hard to resist one piece that is from a short turnaround trend, but your style and wallet will thank you for it.
Some quick extra tips:
• Go on unconventional days since there will be less people
• Try on whatever you’re buying
• Don’t just settle for purchasing an item because it fits
• Check the condition of whatever you’re buying
Happy shopping Coogs!
Moody Towers
The Quad
With their incredibly important role in the Spirit of Houston, a drum major is Coogs’ top pick for the best student leader you can be. Check out page 12 for an interview with a SOH drum major to learn about what the position is really like.
Jordyn Looney, Cougar Village II
The job of an RA serves a vital role in student housing, and Jordyn Looney is Coogs’ top choice of the position. Congratulations Jordyn and CV2!
With a tie for the best on-campus residence hell , it’s clear that UH has some great places to live on campus, your favorites being Moody Towers and The Quad.
Even though the pandemic has had an effect on its hours, MD Anderson Library is still the perfect place to get some studying in. Whether you rent a group room with some classmates, grab a table with a friend, or find a private study room — you’re sure to be test ready by the time you leave.
2nd place: Cougar Grounds
2nd place: The Nook
Junior guard for the Men’s Basketball program Quentin Grimes is a pride and joy of the University. Just during the 2020-21 season, he’s received multiple All-America honors and helped lead his team to the NCAA Final Four for the first time in decades. Recently, he even announced that he will declare for the NBA draft and sign with an agent.
Being the heart of UH games and being talented musicians is no easy task. The band is always on their feet, especially on game days, and they put in a hefty amount of time and work into their craft.
• Dr. Jerry Evans, Info & Logistics Technology
• Jerome Trupiano, Communication
• Dr. Jason Marsack, College of Optometry
With no shortage of outstanding professors, the write-in nominations for these professors put them in a threeway tie.
It’s no secret that UH is full of amazing students, professors and places, but here is a list of your favorites for student life.Quentin Grimes Photo of Quentin Grimes by Andy Yanez/The Cougar
Best On-Campus Hangout
Cullen Fountain and Reflection Pool
Whether you have some serious reflecting to do or you just want to have a nice afternoon with your friends, Coogs know that the Cullen Fountain and Reflection Pool is the place to be if you’re looking for a wonderful afternoon.
2nd place: Pink’s Pizza
Best Off-Campus Apartment
Tower 5040
Live Proper
If you’re looking for an apartment that’s off-campus but is still close enough to get you to your classes, Coogs say that Tower 5040 and Live Proper are your best bets.
GREEK LIFE CORNER
Congratulations to the top picks for Greek life on campus!
Best Sorority
Chi Omega
Tau Beta Sigma
Best Fraternity
Alpha Phi Omega
Written by Haya Panjwani | File Photo/The Cougar
Whenever you attend any UH football or basketball game, you’re likely going to hear the sounds of the “Spirit of Houston.”
Contrary to popular belief, it isn’t just a marching band. The Spirit of Houston includes everyone from the band, cheer and dance teams, culminating for an experience like no other.
Every member of the organization is always on their feet, and are usually the loudest people at every game.
The people that facilitate this organization are known as the drum majors, who direct and lead rehearsals, and act as a liaison between students and faculty.
Charles Burnap is one of them. He’s a senior studying music education and joins three other drum majors in leading the band portion of the Spirit of Houston.
Burnap, Hannah Scott, Peter Winski and Matt Hogan all spent this last year learning to adapt to maintaining the livelihood of the Spirit of Houston amid the pandemic. Specifically, their rehearsals changed in a new way.
“It used to be we would have a full band rehearsal every day, or every three days a week, Monday, Wednesday, Friday,” said Burnap. “Since the pandemic, it has changed
to splitting the band in half. So half the band comes on Mondays, half the band comes on Wednesdays, and then the full band on Fridays.”
Rehearsals are a big part of the Spirit of Houston experience, since that’s what usually brings the organization together to create a close chemistry, but now, they only see each other at games and on Fridays.
When he joined the organization in 2017, he knew he wanted to be a leader eventually. After two years with the Spirit of Houston, he thought he would apply as a section leader, but found the drum major position was very similar.
“Drum majors are typically expected to be people that are going to be there earlier than everybody else in later than everybody else as well,” Burnap said. “So our commitment is much larger than just a typical member.”
On game days, as he stands in front of 300 band members from the Spirit of Houston, Burnap feels honored to be a leader in the organization.
“It’s crazy to just hear how powerful the band is. And then, you know, whenever we play “Womp Womp”, and the whole student section is getting into it, it just feels like it’s just an incredible honor to be a part of that organization to be just to be able to
stand in front of everybody,” Burnap said.
Game days are a whole day affair. “Typically, we get there about two to three hours before the game starts. We also have service fraternities that are associated and they get there early as well,” Burnap said.
“The games typically go probably three to four hours and we’re the first people there and last people leave,” Burnap added. “And so at the end of every rehearsal and every football game, or sports game, we all sing the alma mater together. And it’s a really special experience. No matter if we win or lose. We always end by singing together.”
Regardless of the pandemic, Burnap and his bandmates did everything they could to make sure that the virus didn’t stop them from expressing their love for music.
“While the world felt like it was falling apart, we would just come and work on the fight song. And it felt like some degree of normalcy.” Burnap said. “Which even in itself, something being normal during all of this felt like something crazy. And so that was just such a rewarding experience.”
Barbarella
Barbarella is the club for people who didn’t think that they liked clubs. If you’re tired of the typical music at clubs, Barbarella is the place to be. They host 80s nights, indie hits of the 2000s nights and more. Pre-pandemic you could also dance the night away with your friends and meet plenty of other great people too.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Whether you’re looking to learn something new or just to stroll through the hall of gems with your friends, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is a great place to be. They always have their classic exhibits like the dinosaurs but also new traveling exhibits. So stay posted!
2nd place: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Hay Merchant
Boasting an impressive beer selection, food and a chill atmosphere, The Hay Merchant might be your new favorite spot for a drink.
Blur
Before the pandemic, if you and your friends were looking to dance the night away, Blur was the place to be on a weekend night. Especially when they start playing early-mid 2000s pop favorites.
House of Blues
If you’re an avid concert goer in Houston, chances are you’ve been to House of Blues. The venue has a great selection of artists come through, both an upper balcony area and a general admission area depending on where you want to watch your concert from.
2nd place: Satellite Bar
With all of its amazing culture and nightlife, Houston has a phenomenal entertainment scene. Whether you’re more of a live music, clubbing, museum or hangout person, there’s something for everyone. Even though the pandemic has upended some operations, here are some of the best entertainment spots in town.Graphic via Canva
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Houston is its amazing array of every cuisine you could dream of. From beloved local establishments, popular chains and sweet mom-and-pop restaurants, we’ve got it all. So, dig in!
Best Restaurant
The people have spoken, there is no shortage of great restaurants in Houston! Here are your top picks:
• Hobbit Cafe
• Cuchara
• MDK Noodles
• Emmaline
The Burger Joint
Between its cool patio atmosphere, late night hours, and delicious eats, The Burger Joint is absolutely the place to grab a great burger. Located in Montrose, there’s a burger, or milkshake, for everyone here.
2nd place: Lankford’s Grocery & Market
Pink’s Pizza
Coogs have been so happy to have this popular establishment on campus for years now. They have some of the most delicious pizzas you can get and a fun atmosphere. What are you waiting for, go grab a slice!
2nd place: Azza Cafe
2nd Place: Mondo Subs
Hungry for classic fried chicken? Well Frenchy’s Chicken is the place to be. It’s no secret that Frenchy’s is a pride and joy of the neighborhood, and even stars like Beyoncé and Travis Scott have made stops here.
2nd place: Cream Burger
Just thinking about the ramen served at this chain is enough to get you to want to hop in your car and order a Tonkotsu Black. You’re also able to customize your dishes, and they have delicious vegan options for your plant-based pals.
If you’re a barbecue lover, you’re lucky to live in Houston that’s for sure. It’s no secret that we have some amazing establishments here, so many that we had two win as your top pick for best BBQ. So get your napkins ready, and pile your plate high with brisket at these BBQ joints.
Even those outside of Houston love Saint Arnold, since it’s so good you can even find it in your local HEB. The establishment is a pillar of the Houston brewery scene, and they have a great selection of craft brew to choose from.
2nd place: Karbach Brewing Co
Not only does Pho Saigon have an absolutely delicious menu, but your food also comes out pretty quick (which is great when you’re so excited about the pho you just can’t wait any longer). Try a Vietnamese coffee while you’re here too!
No matter the location, Common Bond has some of the most delectable treats you could ask for. From rich pastries, chocolates, cakes and more. They also have delicious coffee and a more savory cafe menu.
Tacos A Go Go
Breakfast, lunch or dinner, Tacos A Go Go has delicious tacos, burritos and more for every taste and occasion. They’ve been ranked as some of the best tacos in Houston before, and that’s for a reason. Try a delicious brownie or soda while you’re here too!
2nd place: Taconmadre Taquerias
Pink’s Pizza
There’s a reason why this pizza place won in two categories! From classic standards to more unique dishes, Pink’s Pizza has it all. Check out page 15 to hear about why Coogs love their on-campus location at UH.
2nd place: Frank’s Pizza
Just stepping into Black Hole Coffee Shop makes you feel at least 10% cooler, not to mention their amazing coffee. They also have some great snacks and breakfast items if you find yourself hungry while ordering your iced oat milk latte.
2nd place: The Nook
Lindiana’s Southern Vegan Kitchen
Another Third Ward favorite, Lindiana’s Southern Vegan Kitchen serves up delicious southern comfort food — vegan style. They have everything from mac n’ cheese, wings, po’boys and more!
