jaunuary 19, 2012
DESCRIPTION
The Jaunuary 19 issue of the Houstonian.TRANSCRIPT
Austin Hall is currently undergoing renovation after its 160-year-old structure has deteriorated from years of outdoor exposure.
The project was designed by Ford Powell & Carson Architects & Planners, Inc., of San Antonio and contracted to The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company of Houston.
“Bricks were falling off and
there were interior issues. It needed a bunch of work, but we had to be careful because it’s such a historical building,” Maggie Collum, Director of University Events, said.
Higher Education Assistance Funds has provided a substantial amount of the $2.27 million budget for the rejuvenation project. The remainder of the funds have been furnished from gifts and grants given to the university.
“Austin Hall is being restored to preserve a historical landmark for future generations to appreciate. Without the current restoration project Austin Hall would continue to deteriorate and possibly cause irreparable damage and threaten its functional usage,” Denise Neu, Director of Facilities Planning and Construction, said.
Austin Hall’s estimated date
of completion is this May, and it will continue to host many events including the annual Ring Ceremony. Director of University Events, Maggie Collum, ensured that the historical building would hold events just as it had before.
“Austin Hall will have luncheons, dinners, banquets and ceremonies, at a max capacity of 80 people and a rental fee,” Collum said.
Built in 1851, Austin Hall is one of the oldest state-owned collegiate facilities still in operation in the state of Texas. What this architectural symbol has endured is overlooked by many students. Austin Hall has survived the Civil War, Reconstruction, many hurricanes and even a devastating fire in 1982, but like many buildings, it has simply weathered overtime.
Vol 120 | Issue 1
Publishing since 1913 Independent Student Newspaper of Sam Houston State University
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Viewpoints ....... pg. 2News .................. pg. 3 A&E ................... pg. 4
Sports................. pg. 5 Advertisement... pg. 6
INDEXKAT Links
For additional content and news updates, visit houstonianonline.com.
PAC price changes, pg. 5
Judge: TX ‘sonogram law’ can now go into
effect, pg. 4
MISTI JONESSenior Reporter
Historical Texas landmark goes under $2 million recontruction
Rejuvenation renovation
The Houstonian, the independent student newspaper of Sam Houston State University, announced that Stephen Green will be the new Editor In Chief beginning January 2012.
Green worked his way up to Editor-in-Chief in less than two years, beginning as a contributing writer in August 2010, which led to his first position as Senior Reporter. Prior to taking over the lead role for the student paper, Green held the Viewpoints Editor and Associate News Editor positions.
Robin Johnson, Ph.D., faculty advisor for the Houstonian, said Green’s drive, professionalism and commitment to journalism’s core principles made him the ideal candidate for the position.
“Stephen practically moved in
to the Houstonian offices since he first set foot on campus as a freshman,” Johnson said. “His hard work ever since and his desire to make the paper a vital part of the community will serve him well during his tenure.”
As Editor in Chief, Green said he is ready to continue the Houstonian tradition of excellence in writing and reporting in his new leadership role.
“To lead the staff, who are also my friends, is a great honor,” Green said. “I can’t wait to see this newspaper become known as one of the premiere university media outlets.”
During Green’s previous two years at the paper, he has covered events such as the SHSU social media policy and subsequent protests, the “Nerf gunman” incident, and a campus bomb scare.
Green is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s of Art in Broadcast Journalism. He has also served as the weather anchor for KSHU Channel 7 News and will co-host a one-hour radio show on 90.5 The Kat during the Spring semester.
STEPHEN GREEN. In addition to his journalism studies, Green is also an active member of the Elliot T. Bowers Honors College.
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
HOUSTONIAN STAFF
Green selected new Houstonian Editor-in-Chief
AUSTIN ADJUSTMENTS. Austin Hall was damaged in 1982 by the same fire that destroyed the Old Main building. The fire was contained mostly to the roof where the fire department put out the fire before major damage was done.
Megan Laurie | The Houstonian
Wikipedia shut down their sight Wednesday for 24 hours. due to anti-pirating bills going through Congress.
The site black out began 12 a.m. Wednesday and ended 12 a.m. today. Co-founder, Jimmy Wales, made the decision based on the new legislation going through the House and Senate.
Visitors to the site, yesterday, were greeted with a black page and in bold white print, “Imagine the world without free knowledge.” They were also given options on how to contact their representatives and information on the two acts.
Twitter blew up with hashtags including: #StopSOPA&PIPA, #factswithoutwikipedia, and #stoppiracynotliteracy.
The Protect IP Act (PIPA) was introduced to the Senate in May of 2011. According to opencongress.org the bill allows the Justice Department
to take down sites that dedicate themselves to infringement defined as: distribution of illegal copies, counterfeit goods, or anti-digital rights management technology.
The Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) was introduced to the House in October of 2011. This bill also allows the Justice Department to shut down websites for infringement, and will make unauthorized streaming of copyrighted content a crime, according to opencongress.org.
Wales told BBC’s, Martha Kearney, that this legislation would make, “something like Wikipedia essentially impossible.”
Other sites, such as Reddit, WordPress, Craigslist, and Boing Boing, are also shutting down with Wikipedia because they don’t agree with the censorship.
“I wouldn’t want Wikipedia to shut down. It is my paper writer.” Ryan Rowland,
Players proud, confident after title lossIt just wasn’t meant to be for the
Bearkat football team as they fell to North Dakota State in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) National Championship game, 17-6.
With big plays and a relentless defense, North Dakota State (14-1) gave the Kats their lone loss of the season.
It wasn’t all bad for the Bearkats as their defense also stepped up and allowed the Bison to pick up only 235 yards and created two turnovers.
The Sam Houston offense seemingly mirrored that of their rivals. The Bearkat rushing attack that was previously ranked number 5 in the subdivision, was limited to just 94 yards and the offense as a whole was held to 210 yards. SHSU running back Tim Flanders led both teams with 84 yards carrying on 21 carries.
While both teams played equal, it was key turnovers late in the ball game that made the difference as the Bison captured their first FCS title.
Early in the game, the Bison set the
tempo as they outgained the Bearkats in yards 108-52. But, the Bearkat defense stepped up when it mattered, including a third down stop from the1-yard line. The Bison would settle for an 18-yard field goal that was made by kicker Ryan Jastram.
In the second quarter, it was the Bearkat offense that was dominant. But, they couldn’t punch it in the endzone, settling for two field goals that were made by kicker Craig Alaniz. They would take that 6-3 lead into the break.
With the Bearkats carrying momentum out of halftime, the defense stepped up and held North Dakota to what looked like a three-and-out. However on fourth down, the Bison called a fake punt that was rushed for 27 yards.
“They caught us off guard,” SHSU safety Robert Shaw said. “I’m not sure what happened because I was man to man with my player. But I wish it would have been a different outcome of that play. And I gave North Dakota State a good job for that.”
On the next play, Bison quarterback
— CHAMPIONSHIP, page 5
FALL AT THE FINISH. Senior Travis Watson (73) walks off the field after the FCS National Title game. Watson and the offense struggled to get anything going and fell to North Dakota State, 17-6.
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
ZACHARY BIRDSONGSports Editor
MOLLY WADDELLAssociate News Editor
— BLACKOUT, page 3
SOPA instigates online blackouts
Page 2Thursday, January 19, 2012Viewpoints
houstonianonline.com/viewpoints
PHOTOGRAPHERJessica Gomez
FACULTY ADVISERRobin Johnson
936-294-1499
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF936-294-1505
Stephen Green
SPORTS EDITORZachary Birdsong
WEB AND MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
Matt [email protected]
A&E EDITORGeorge [email protected]
GRAPHIC COORDINATORChristian Pratt
STAFF LISTING
ADVERTISING MANAGERChelsea Boyd
AD DEADLINESTuesday’s Issue - Friday 5 p.m.
Thursday’s Issue - Tuesday 2 p.m.
VIEWPOINTS EDITORKarmen C. King
SENIOR REPORTERMisti Jones
COPY EDITORAllison McMath
BUSINESS MANAGERPaty Mason
PRODUCTION MANAGERMeagan [email protected]
Letter to the Student Body
The individual opinions on the Viewpoints page are not necessarily affiliated with the view of The Houstonian or SHSU. The Houstonian is published semi-weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is a news publication of Sam Houston State University, a member of the Texas State University system, and is produced by students. It is self-supporting and welcomes all advertisers. Those interested in placing ads or classifieds should call 936-294-1495. The Houstonian is a member of the Associated Press and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association.
Dear Sam Houston Students, Staff and Faculty and Alumni:
The Houstonian would not survive were it not for the continued involvement and dedication of the SHSU student body. We welcome all column submissions and letters to the editor. If at any time you feel the need to express an opinion, please do not hesitate to email your thoughts or drop by our office in the Dan Rather communications building. We look forward to hearing from you and thank you as always for your continued support of the Houstonian.
Karmen C. KingViewpoints Editor
ASSOCIATE EDITOR936-294-1502
Molly Waddell
Thank Yout’s not often that I stop and think about the opportunities that I’ve had, but even before kickoff of the Football Championship Subdivision
(FCS) National Championship game, my last football game as a student, that’s what I found myself doing. But had it not been for the performance of this year’s Sam Houston football team, none of that would have been possible.
That being said, I would like to personally thank every member of the team and coaching staff for everything that they have done this season and not just for me, but for everything that they have done for this university.
Sure, I know you guys wanted that last one, and as a fan so did I, but you guys have done something that was unprecedented here at this university. 14-1 speaks for itself and on top of that, you were the second team in school history and the first since 1956 to finish the regular season undefeated, as well as the first out-right conference championships in school history.
To the seniors on the squad: While I know you guys would have liked to go out on top, you guys set in motion something much bigger than that game. You guys were leaders on this team and you helped garner the fan support. You guys started a tradition here at Sam Houston State University that will carry on through the years and you can hold your head high.
After the game, senior center Travis Watson said it the best: “To come this far and do what we’ve done with this program and turn it around so fast, it’s been great to be a part of. And no matter what, this has been the best year I’ve ever had. And I’m just blessed to be part of this team.”
To the younger players: You guys have an amazing opportunity in front of you guys. Unlike the seniors, you have another year to go out this and build off this foundation. I’m sure I don’t have to tell you guys this, but
use this championship game as motivation for next season.
To the entire coaching staff I just have two words for you guys: Thank you. Head coach Willie Fritz has said many times that he has the best coaching staff and certainly it’s hard to argue with him.
Coach Fritz: I don’t even know where to start. In just two years you have successfully turned around this program and done a remarkable job. Though, it was easier to see this year, you really started to make your presence felt in 2010. I know you think that you have done the least amount of coaching this year, and maybe that’s true, but your presence on this team has been remarkable and as offensive lineman Chris Crockett said during the pre-game press conference, you indeed have been the x-factor. And your presence doesn’t just stop on the football field. The impact you have had on this community has been tremendous. Even for guys like me in the media, you are always fun to talk to and really helpful and it’s been a pleasure.
Lastly, I would like to thank the fans. I know I have been critical of you guys, but you guys really proved me wrong and during the playoffs, you guys showed up and made those games more special. I was on the sidelines during the Montana game and to this day, I still get chills remembering you guys shout “Sam Houston” back and forth. All I ask is that you don’t give up on this team and continue to support the football team. Remember too, we have other sports that could use your support as well.
And as I wrap this up, I would just like to say thank you again to everybody involved with the football program and from the bottom of my heart I say this, “Eat ‘Em Up Kats.”
“Eat ‘Em Up Kats!”View the full article online at houstonianonline.com
Sports Editor Zach Birdsong thanks the entire football team for all they’ve given to the university community
I
Senior OL Travis Watson was named Southland Conference Football Student-Athlete of the Year. Watson is the first
SHSU football player to receive the honor.
Head Football Coach Willie Fritz was named the American Football Coaches Association 2012 Football Championship
Subdivision “Coach of the Year.”
Junior Sequeena Thomas was named SLC Women’s Basketball Player of the Week.
The end of the winter break! Just a few more weeks off, please? Pretty please?
The national championship ticketing fiasco. It was a nightmare to secure student tickets.
Side note: Bearkat Athletics ticketing department had no control over the situation so we still love them.
his newspaper just got better. It’s hard to really say how much
better because the results of the most recent change to The Houstonian staff aren’t in yet.
For that staff, I’m positive success is going to be measured by the amount of awards won at the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association conventions over the next couple of years.
But aside from that and maybe more importantly, there’s an improvement here, already. Just telling you what I know.
Stephen Green is your new editor-in-chief. That’s an empty statement to you at the moment, but get back to me at the end of the semester and we’ll see how much it resonates.
I’ve had the pleasure of watching this publication evolve over the past four, almost five years. The past four or five EICs are either friends of mine or folks I think a lot of and chat with on Facebook from time to time.
Green is somewhat of both and that’s okay to qualify here. I don’t mind revealing to you that I know Stephen Green and personally rooting for him to do well.
That’s actually quite unimportant, or as we said at The Houstonian when I was on staff – “soooo irrelevant.”
Green is going to do well no matter how anyone feels or what they have to say about it. That has been his attitude since he got here in the fall of 2010.
I was Viewpoints Editor at the time, with little to no idea this kid was looking to take my job. Only it had nothing to do with me, because I was irrelevant. Green was about advancing himself, as well as this publication to levels possibly unimaginable for that specific regime, or at least the way it was structured.
It wasn’t just my job Green wanted, but it was the evolution of my job and the paper as well. This is something you, the reader, will come to learn soon.
The kid, as I’ll always refer to him, has a plan – a well thought out one that can work if it’s actually executed. And Stephen Green executes. Just telling what I know from
working with the kid. He walked into our newsroom that year
with his childhood buddy, Kolby Flowers, and they had to have been by far the nerdiest kids I’d ever met. All they wanted to do was talk about the news, politics and Anderson Cooper.
I was floored. Soon these two would be writing all of
what might be considered major stories the paper reported on. Green’s most well-documented work probably starts with the “NERF gunman” fiasco and travels through last semester’s free speech wall story, the city elections debate that he moderated, and introducing Dan Rather to a select number of the student body has to be up there too.
All I’m saying is, I’ve watched the kid work.
Expect this publication to have more of a web presence, maybe the biggest of all Huntsville media, with multimedia packages and required blogs of every staff member. For real, though.
Don’t think this is a slob fest for Stephen Green. He’s benefitting from the same system I’ve benefitted from, and that has a lot to do with how all of us get our opportunity – politics.
I benefitted from being “the next one up” just like he has. Only with Green, I’m certain that politics gets it right here, and I haven’t always been able to say that when it comes to hiring decisions at this paper.
Including myself in this discussion, I’m of the opinion that Stephen Green is going to turn out to be the strongest hire this paper has made in all of the time I’ve known about it.
We’ll word it that way because if you remember Brad Basker, who was hired long before I got here, you know it’s hard to top that.
But Green is more than likely going to be the editor-in-chief that you’ll remember here, never mind if he’s only one, since he’s only 20 and will be around for a couple of years.
That’s more than enough time for you to come back and tell me I was right. Give it a semester.
PHOTOGRAPHERMegan Laurie
SPORTS REPORTERCody Lewis
This is where we normally would put interesting historical events. We were unable to do this due to yesterday’s Wikipedia blackout. So instead of reading about history we suggest you make
history. Call your elected officials.
Tell them you are their constituent, and you oppose SOPA & PIPA.
Why?SOPA and PIPA would put the burden on website owners to police user-contributed material and call for the unnecessary blocking of entire sites. Small sites won’t have sufficient resources to defend themselves. SOPA and PIPA would build a framework for future restrictions
and suppression.In a world in which politicians regulate the Internet based on the influence of big money, Wikipedia — and sites like it — cannot survive.Congress says it’s trying to protect the rights of copyright owners, but the “cure” that SOPA and PIPA represent is worse than the disease. SOPA and PIPA are not the answer: they would fatally
damage the free and open Internet.
Your Representatives:Rep. Kevin Brady [R, TX-8] Phone: 202-225-4901
Twitter: @RepKevinBradySen. John Cornyn [R, TX] Phone: 202-224-2934
Twitter: @JohnCornynSen. Kay Hutchison [R, TX] Phone: 202-224-5922
Twitter: @kaybaileyhutchInfo courtesy wikipedia.org
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes
Former Sports Editor Brandon K. Scott expects great things from the new Editor-in-Chief
his semester I’ll be taking over one of the best newspapers in the state…but I don’t plan on being content.
I’m stepping in the footsteps of highly respectable journalists like Dan Rather, Rachael Gleason, Meagan Ellsworth and Erin Peterson.
However, I plan on moving the paper into a more modern direction with more content geared toward the online community. In my time I’ve spent at the paper I’ve seen it expand its horizons and I want to continue that tradition.
I know that this paper has had a negative
reputation for a long time. I want that to change. Being a part of a world-class mass communication department, we should have a world-class media outlet. I’ll settle for nothing less (even if my staff plots my death).
As readers, I want to stay in communication with you. Email me if you have any questions about stories, story ideas or comments about the newspaper.
This will be a great time in my life and, hopefully, I can provide an entertaining, enriching and educational service to this university.
YOUROPINION
HEREHave something to say?
Say it here.Email your thoughts and
opinions [email protected]
Incoming Editor-in-Chief Stephen Green outlines his goals for The Houstonian under his tenure
T
T
A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday the 10th that a Texas law requiring abortion providers to show or describe an ultrasound image of the fetus to the woman will go into effect i m m e d i a t e l y , according to Associated Press.
The new law requires doctors to conduct a sonogram 24 hours before the procedure. According to The National Post, a woman can legally decline viewing the ultrasound and hearing the heartbeat, but she must listen to the doctor describe the fetus.
“The required disclosures of a sonogram, the fetal heartbeat, and their medical descriptions are the epitome of truthful, non-misleading information,” Chief Judge Edith wrote for the three-judge panel.
The Center of Reproductive
Rights started a Trust Texas Women campaign as soon as the original law left legislation in 2011, and took it to the courts. The center believes that the law does not truly inform the women like the three-judge panel claims it does.
“But any law that makes doctors force-feed a woman i n f o r m a t i o n that she doesn’t w a n t — e v e n when the doctors themselves believe it’s inappropriate—isn’t really meant to inform her, but to harass her and prevent her from
making the decision on her own,” The Center of Reproductive Rights said in a press release.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit did not agree with the federal judge in Austin that ruled that the law violated physicians’ free-speech rights.
“Only if one assumes… that pregnancy is a condition to be terminated, can one assume that such information about the
fetus is medically irrelevant,” the judicial panel concluded.
Planned Parenthood also believes that there is no medical reason to require women to come in 24 hours in advance.
“Ultrasounds have been a standard part of abortion services and are always performed on every patient before any type of procedure is done,” Planned Parenthood explained in a
statement on their website. The Center of Reproductive
Rights plans to continue to fight this law, and is evaluating all means to block it.
Page 3Thursday, January 19, 2012 News
houstonianonline.com/news
Name:
Email:
SEND US YOUR NEWS TIPSDan Rather Room 210
News:
MOLLY WADDELLAssociate News Editor
PRO-CHOICE. Planned Parenthood is one of the clinics that performs abortions as well as other services. They are home to many protest throughout the year for Pro Life.
Megan Laurie| The Houstonian
Sam Houston State University’s online college was recognized Tuesday (Jan. 10) for having one of the “Top Online News Education Programs,” by U.S. News and World Report.
SHSU is one of only 14 graduate education programs to receive this recognition, and one of only two in Texas. The other school in Texas to receive this honor is University of Houston.
“The College of Education is excited about and appreciative of receiving such an honor. It is truly a tribute to our innovative and student-centered faculty and staff,” said College of Education Dean Genevieve Brown, according to Today @ Sam.
Along with the Honor Role, the magazine ranked SHSU fourth for student services and technology, with Syracuse University in first, University of Southern California in second, and University of Houston in third. SHSU also ranked second in the nation for its online bachelor program, 21st for faculty credentials and trainings, and 46th for student engagement and
accreditation. Honor Role designations
were awarded if a program ranked in the top one third of three out of four indicators. The four areas are: admissions selectivity, faculty credentials and training, student engagement and accreditation, and student services and technology.
“Our student services and technology is like a village. We’re always trying to improve and I think services
such as those offered by the Distance Education and Learning Technologies for Academics (DELTA) Center have helped us improve,” Beverly Irby, associate dean for graduate programs of the College of Education, said.
SHSU offers nine fully online graduate degrees, eight hybrid graduate degrees, and 14 fully online and hybrid certification programs for students who have a bachelor’s degree.
“Any law that makes doctors force-feed a woman information that she doesnt want isn’t meant to inform her....”
UPD UpdateJanuary 18, 2012
Officer stopped two males walking in the middle of the road in the 1200 block of 16th Street at 12:50 a.m. One of the males stopped and the other continued down the road disregarding the officer’s commands. After catching up to the male (a university student), it was determined that he was intoxicated and slightly injured. The other male stated to the officer that they were attempting to take him home; however, he would not go with him. At this time the male was arrested and charged with the Class C Misdemeanor Offense of Public Intoxcation.
January 16, 2012
While conducting a traffic stop in the 1000 block of University at 10:30 p.m., officer determined that the driver (a Huntsville resident) was wanted on an outstanding warrrant of arrest. The driver was arrested and transported to the Walker County Jail.
January 15, 2012
At 12:05 a.m., an officer was dispatched to Raven Village (located at 2133 Avenue I) in reference to a male sleeping in the hallway. Upon arrival, officer determined that the male (underage) student was highly intoxicated. Walker County Emergency Medical Services were summoned to the scene and transported the male to Huntsville Memorial Hospital. During this time, the male became very combative. Subsequently, the male was issued a Class C Misdemeanor citation for the offense of Public Intoxication of a Minor.
Officer responded to the 2501 Lake Road to assist the Huntsville Police Department with a report of a reckless driver at 11:42 p.m. Officer observed an individual standing next to a vehicle matching the provided description. While talking to the male (a university student), the officer determined that he was highly intoxicated. The male was arrested and charged with the Class C Misdemeanor Offense of Public Intoxication.
RAISING AWARENESS. The Crime Victims’ Institute was created to prevent criminal victimization and to better understand victims .
Photo courtesy of Crime Victims Institute
A Sam Houston State University study shows that the Choking Game is widespread among Texas teens.
The Choking Game, also known as the Fainting Game, Pass Out, or Space Monkey, is played in groups or individually where blood flow is deliberately cut off to
the brain in order to achieve a high.
Nearly one out of seven college students surveyed at a Texas university has participated in the choking game. The study was based on a survey completed by 837 students at a Texas university.
“This study was undertaken to determine who is playing the game, in what context, and how they learned about it,” Glen Kercher, director of the Crime Victims’ Institute said.
Among the findings were: 16 percent of students reported having played the game, 72 percent reportedly played the game more than once, 90 percent of those
who played the game first heard about it from peers. The average age when the students first played the game was 14.
According to chokinggame.net reported incidences of this game date back to 1969. There are currently 614 incidences recorded in the U.S., with the most recent being in February of 2011. Out of those 614 reports 549 suffered fatality.
“It is our hope that these findings will inform efforts by parents, schools, and community agencies to warn young people about the dangers of participating in the Choking Game.” Kercher said.
Although curiosity about
the effects of the Choking Game was a primary motivation for playing the game, learning about the potential dangers in engaging in this activity served as a deterrent for the majority of non-participants.
A similar study on the Choking Game found that 90 percent of parents would support incorporating information on the behavior in health and drug prevention classes.
Created by the Texas Legislature, the Crime Victims’ Institute has been charged with studying the impact of crime on victims, survivors, family members and the community in Texas.
Choking game popular among teens
MOLLY WADDELLAssociate News Editor
COE program receives recognitionMOLLY WADDELLAssociate News Editor
Texas abortion law put in effect immediately
Study:16% of TX students participate
accounting major, said in reaction to the bill.
According to Associated Press, some volunteer editors of Wikipedia were not pleased with the shutdown. Robert Lawton, editor, believed that it made it look like Wikipedia was picking sides when it is supposed to be a neutral site.
“It won’t work; no one goes to Wikipedia, if it were Facebook that would work.” Casey Auton, senior criminal justice major, said.
Markup of the house bill will continue in February, while there was a motion in December for the committee to present the bill to the senate, according to elobbyist.com.
BLACKOUT, page 1
~JUMPS~
HONOR ROLE. SHSU is one of only 14 graduate education programs to receive this recognition, and one of only two in Texas.
Photo from shsu.edu.
Page 4Thursday, January 19, 2012Arts & Entertainment
houstonianonline.com/a-e
David Fincher’s adaptation of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo unveiled a grungy, rusty tattoo needle imprinting its point on the tender skin of the public.
Fincher’s production not only proved successful in the theaters, but it conveys a powerful message of hidden strength within women.
Fincher incorporates the abominable theme of sexual perversion within the mystery at hand. This awkward sexual presence seems to dominate the film and steer away from the unfurling mystery. But with such aggression, Lisabeth Salander represents womens’ fist against sexual violence.
The protagonist, Lisbeth Salander, depicted by Rooney Mara is a foul, gothic woman who lives on welfare from various foster elders. Fincher’s cinematography and camera work with Mara’s character isolates her cold eyes and slender figure from scene to scene.
Though Salander is antisocial and confined to her own vices, a warm sympathy brews within the audience as Salander is gruesomely violated sexually and forcefully raped. Her struggle to survive is exposed as she fights against the paws of her violator.
Salander’s powerful answer to her rape is an ultimate hoorah for women activists. The grimy mattress has switched and Salander is in control; control of her revenge as well as the thoughts and actions of her attacker.
The underlying tension of sexual boundaries extends to the male characters as well. Mikael Blomkvist, played by Daniel Craig, is a financial journalist that employs his well defined detective work to search for the disappearance of Vanger. He is the love affair to his co-editor as well the frequent lover to Salander.
Blomkvist’s role as Salander’s lover and outside work partners, proves as a remedy and an ailment to Salander. His sexual activeness with Salander allows the audience to see more dimensions of her personality and personal life. Her attachment and loyalty to Blomkvist proves useless as she is left broken hearted in an alley under his window as he woos another woman.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo provides a heart wrenching mystery that is complex and deceitful. Though sexually aggressive scenes are sprinkled throughout the film, the power of Mara’s character rises from the shower water from which her blood runs orange and poisons the assailants and leeches of the streets.
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With the Academy Awards coming up next month, the modern silent film “The Artist” and the drama “The Descendants” have already emerged as front-runners to win after winning big at this year’s Critic’s Choice Awards and the Golden Globes.
The Critic’s Choice for Best Picture, director, costume design, musical score all went to “The Artist” while also winning Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture, Best Original Score and Best Actor in a Motion Picture for Jean Dujardin’s role in the film.
George Clooney took the Critic’s Choice for Best Actor and the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture for his role as a father trying to reconnect with his daughters in “The Descendants”. The film also grabbed the Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture.
In his speech, Clooney talked about his roots and words from his father before giving thanks to all the work for the film.
“If you’re not proud of what you’re doing, then do it better or do something else…I have to say I am very proud to be in this film. I’m very proud of our association with Fox Searchlight in making this film. I am proud of all the actors that I got to work with on this film that make everyone better.”
While both award shows crowned big winners, they also unveiled some surprises for other films like “The Help” and “Iron Lady”.
Octavia Spencer took awards for Best Supporting Actress for
her portrayal of Minny in the 1960s drama about black maids in Jackson, Mississippi beating out nominees from other big films like “The Descendants”, “Shame” and “The Artist”.
“I guess the operative word here is supporting because I was truly supported by the most amazing
cast,” Spencer said in her tearful acceptance speech at the Critic’s Choice Awards.
Meryl Streep took home her eighth Golden Globe award for her role as Margaret Thatcher in “Iron Lady” calling her win “a thrill” and “embarrassing to win in a year that [had] so many
extradordinary performances by women in leading roles.”
The counterpart award in the Critic’s Choice Awards went to Viola Davis for her role as Aibileen in “The Help”.
With the Oscar nominations coming up next week, both “The Artist” and “The Descendants”
are expected to win big while leaving other major awards up in the air for films like “The Help”, “Iron Lady” and “My Life With Marilyn”.
The 84th Academy Awards will air on February 26 at 6 p.m. on ABC.
GEORGE MATTINGLYArts & Entertainment Editor
Awards unveil early Oscar hopefuls‘Artist’, ‘Descendants’ begin award season with top honors at Critics Choice, Golden Globes
PROUD DESCENDANT: George Clooney thanked his parents for instilling value on pride for his work as he accepted his third Golden Globe on Sunday.
Beacon Radio | Flickr“EMBARRASSING” WIN: Meryl Streep recognized her fellow actresses for their work in 2011 as she accepted her Golden Globe for Best Actress.
Beacon Radio |Flickr
CONNOR HYDEContributing Reporter
‘Dragon Tattoo’ makes a markBOX OFFICE INK: “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo has earned a total of $89.2 million in the in the U.S. since being released in December.
Photo by Aranami| Flickr
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CLASSIFIEDS
Brock Jensen found running back D.J. McNorton on a screen pass and 39-yards later were into the endzone for the first time.
“We work all the time on sudden change. It was a good play call,” SHSU head coach Willie Fritz said. “They ran a little screen to the back and caught us in the zone, and lineman came up and blocked the linebacker and then ran off the secondary. So it was the right call at the right time. And many times people take a shot, sudden change situations. They were patient, ran a nice screen play, so it was a good play call.”
The Bison would take that 10-6 lead into the fourth quarter. With 9 minutes to go in the game, Sam Houston quarterback Brian Bell threw his first of two interceptions on the day that was picked off by North Dakota State Linebacker Travis Beck and returned to the Kat 1-yard line.
One play later, the Bison scored again as Jensen kept it and ran it in, ending the scoring for both teams.
With one last attempt, the Bearkats got the ball back with just over 2 minutes left to go in the game. That drive would quickly as on the first play, Bison safety John Peck intercepted Bell ultimately ending the game.
“Just a great job by North Dakota State University,” Fritz said. “We just want to
congratulate them for winning the championship. They really played well today, and without
question, and congratulations to them.”
While this was the last game for 14 Bearkat seniors, they would have liked to go out differently. At the same time, many of them are proud of this season.
“To come this far and do what we’ve done with this program and turn it around so fast, it’s been great to be a part of,” Sam Houston center Travis Watson said. “And no matter what, this has been the best year I’ve ever had. And I’m just blessed to be part of this team.”
While this closes the door on the 2011-12 season, some of the younger players are talking about next season and feel confident about the future of Sam Houston.
“We’re going to be back,” Shaw said. “Coach Fritz is a good coach and we have a good coaching staff, and I have confidence we’ll be back.”
The 1,355 fans at Johnson Coliseum were on their feet as the Bearkat Men’s Basketball team won a close game beating the Texas State Bobcats 71-68 last night.
This was the first of a two-game home stand, and the Bearkats took the lead in the two team’s all-time series record.
It was Texas State’s last game in Johnson Coliseum due to the fact that they, along with UT-Arlington and UT-San Antonio, are moving from the Southland Conference to the Western Atlantic Conference.
Statistically, the teams were evenly matched in almost every aspect. Both shot almost 50 percent from the floor, and their three point percentages were nearly even at approximately 40. However, the Bearkats did have more points in the paint.
Demarcus Gatlin led the team with 19 points, 15 of which he scored in the second half. Almost with an identical performance, Marcus James had 18 points and 5 rebounds.
The Bearkats could not help but think about the UTSA game they hosted on January 8. In this game, they held a lead until the
final minutes of the game when the Roadrunners staged a heart-breaking comeback run.
The loss apparently fueled the Bearkats’ fire as they almost saw the lead shift towards the Bobcats but came in clutch down the stretch to win this important
game.“The UTSA game prepared us
for a close game,” James said. “We went to the drawing board and worked out situations in practice and we knew we would be ready for the next game.”
Head Coach Jason Hooten
was also pleased with his team’s performance.
“It was good to see how well we responded to adversity,” Hooten said. “Our guys fought hard and were very efficient offensively and defensively. We made a play when we needed to.”
The Bearkats hope to take this win and build momentum as they finish this two-game home stand. The next game will be against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi at Johnson Coliseum on Saturday January 21 at 7 p.m
Page 5Thursday, January 19, 2012
Sportshoustonianonline.com/sports twitter.com/HoustonianSport
Men edge out Bobcats, 71-68
ROLLING ALONG. Senior Dayna Galganski lines up her shot during an exhibition match. Galganski and the the team is ranked No. 4 in the country.
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
Galganski gives Alley Kats leadership
Clad in orange, wearing number 15, hailing from Florida, a team and fan favorite, can describe only one person…no, not Tim Tebow, Sam Houston State bowler Dayna Galganski. It is not a coincidence, however, that Galganski wears 15; she might be the number one fan of the popular and polarizing Denver Bronco quarterback.
Growing up in a bowling family, Galganski was first exposed to the sport of bowling at a young age, and started competed when she was in high school.
“When I first started bowling I was five or six,” Galganksi said. “But when I started competitively bowling I was 16 or 17.”
When asked who the ace of the family is, Galganski was quick to point out that in addition to her; both parents and her brother have all rolled perfect games.
“We’re all good. My Dad’s claim to fame for my family is that we all have 300s,” she said.
The mass communication major has quite a list of accolades, but the one that stands out for her is making Team USA.
“Making Team USA has always been a goal of mine, and to be able to do it and be on the team was definitely a big deal for me,” Galganski said.
In addition, the senior received All-American honors last year competing for the Bearkats in the inaugural year of the program.
Bowling is not all highs, there are also lows, injury and adversity, and Galganski has faced both. Before coming to SHSU, Galganski suffered a serious ankle injury.
“I tore all sorts of ligaments in the bottom of my foot and fractured a bone in my ankle,”
Galganski said. “I was in a cast for a month and I was not bowling for two months.”
There are also slumps or as Galganski describes it, “the ‘S’ word.” She has her own way for dealing with slumps, “I take time off. I just don’t bowl. If I’m bowling bad, I stop bowling for a while.”
Galganski, her head coach Brad Hagen and the other girls are quite close, perhaps that is a result of the long hours they spend together traveling and at tournaments.
“A lot of times there’s really interesting conversations that come up in 12 hour van rides,” Galganski said. “So, that’s always entertaining.”
Her head coach, also gave her plenty of praise.
“(Dayna is) that girl, on the competitive side, that keeps the girls together,” Hagen said. “She’s kind of the girl on the team that has the experience, has the heart and the passion and pulls everybody together.”
While the senior has not ruled out becoming a Graduate Assistant for Coach Brad Hagen, she does hope to go into public relations. “I wanna go into public relations and work for someone to start out, and then maybe eventually start my own public relations firm.”
While her future plans are still up in the air, Galganski and the rest of the team are preparing to travel to Nebraska and compete in the Big Red Invitational. That tournament begins on Thursday and lasts until Saturday.
DEREK MARTINContributing Reporter
CODY LEWISSports Reporter
CHAMPIONSHIP, page 1
GETTING TO THE BASKET. Bearkat guard Demarcus Gatlin (11) drives the ball to the hoop against Texas State. Gatlin scored 19 points in a 71-68 victory over the Bobcats as the Bearkats improved to 2-2 in conference play.
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
The women’s basketball team dropped to 3-1 (8-7 overall) in conference play Wednesday night at Texas State falling 66-53. The Bearkats were led by junior Britni Martin with 19 points. During the game Martin hit her 1,000 SHSU career point.
Junior Sequeena Thomas, Southland Conference Women’s Basketball Player of the Week, added 15 points and 18 boards.
The Texas State Bobcats were
led by Ashley Ezeh with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
Shooting only 25 percent (17-68) from the field was costly to the Bearkats.
SHSU led at halftime 30-28, but were outscored 38-23 in the second half.
After leading at halftime, the Bearkats came out cold and the Bobcats took advantage, going on a 18-0 to start the second half.
“We just didn’t bring our intensity tonight and it cost us,” Head Coach Brenda Nichols said. “We didn’t come out very well in the second half and it took us 10
minutes to score. You can’t win games like that. We will take a look at this loss and then get ready for Corpus.”
The Kats continue to struggle with scoring contributions from the bench. Khamra Echols scored five with Jazmin Wiley and Nyha Carter each knocking down a free throw to make up the seven points from the non-starters.
Sam Houston next travels to face the Islanders of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (6-11, 2-2) on Saturday night.
KARMEN KINGViewpoints Editor
Kat Fight: Women’s team falls on road, 66-53
ROUGH ROAD GAME. Basketball traveled to College Station Wednesday, losing to the Texas A&M Aggies (7-1) 64-37.
Jessica Gomez | The Houstonian
Gatlin leads team with 19 points, 15 in second half
