Run-oft,EUections Ken Pham F,ound Dead The Dateline: Downto'1n \ ndorses Annise Parker Former UHD student is found dead after being for Mayor of, Houston suspected ofa triple murder in November FR&'N';f~GE CAMP.U~ 'NEWS

T U 0 N R U N S N C £ V . Q U M 0 N NEWSPAPER FOR THE UN IVERS ITY OF HOUSTON- DOWNTOWN

Volume 43, Issue 7, DECEMBER 7, 2009- FEBRUARY 8, 2010 www.uhd.edu/dateline For Mayor, We Endorse Annise Parker

Dateline Staff Report Although Bill White has done a forum taking place at Texas some great things and is quite Southern University (attended After much debate and popular, he has left Houston by The Dateline), Parker quickly deliberation, The Dateline believes with a million dollar deficit answered questions posed and that Houston's next Mayor under his leadership. Measures quickly shut down opponents should be Annise Parker. Former such as the Rainy Day Fund a !tempting to harp on eduction, democratic opponent and City taken by Parker as Controller which the Mayor has no control Council Member Peter Brown have absolutely kept Houston over. Peter Brown came in describes Parker as having a thriving. A native Houston ian thirty minutes late and Gene " 12-year proven track record herself, Parker continues to Locke came in ten minutes after ofpublic service, particularly show her commitment to this Parker, who was there early in terms ofefficient, open city and its possible growth with with her team greeting voters government, quality of life, and visionary ideas. One vision is and preparing for a forum. It fiscal responsibility, especially possibly allowing fellow HCC or was obvious from then on that important in these difficult UHD Cadets to become peace one candidate wants to be the economic times. That candidate keepers because they receive the next Mayor ofHouston. The is Annise Parker." Since 2003, same state certification as those Dateline believes that your vote Parker has proven her fiscal students in the HPD Academy. for Mayor should be for Annise responsibility as City Controller Although the Mayoral Forum Parker. As more allegations about as she stopped wasteful spending that was supposed to take place at Locke come to light (in regard to on soccer stadiums and the UHD in September was cancelled conflicts of interest), we can trust wants, not the needs, ofthe city. by all democratic candidates, that Parker- who gladly published Now more than ever, we need a Parker and Locke continued to her and her partner's taxes for all fiscally responsible Mayor. go to debates and fo rums. At to see- has nothing to hide.

· failing placement tests and New Standards for Freshman bein g forced to take remedial Christina Rodriguez and participated in the panel Dr. Steve Murdock, whose a predictor ofthe nation's courses at UHD, which is a ASSOCIATE EDITOR discussion. work has been tO study the growth," and continued to waste of time and money on all Dr. Moosally spoke first changes in population in show slides that supported sides. He stated that a big part On Friday, November 13, and while discussing the need Texas. One of the first things this fact. The main reason ofthe problem is in our area 2009, faculty, administration, for higher standards, she he said was "! may become a for Murdoch's presentation high schools, because they are students and guest speakers stated that "Access without bit preachy, but I just want you was to demonstrate that as a having children graduate who met in Robertson Auditorium direction ...does not support to know I have a right to." In school, we must keep in mind are not able to pass placement to discuss the need for our students." Dr. Flores spoke his Powerpoim presentation, that if the given statistics hold tests. "There has tO be more raising admission standards. next and discussed University he made it clear that UHD's true, we need to consider collaboration between public The guest speakers were of Houston Main Campus, future is tied to non-Anglo the prevalence of Hispanic and higher education." He Dr. Raymund Paredes, which is already discussing populations. He gave the population when discussing also discussed the possibility Commissioner ofTexas Higher raising their admission percentage ofpopulation admission standards because it of making financial aid more Education Coordination standards, and what ki nd of growth in Texas in 2000-2001 may mean fewer students will selective, which would require Board, and Dr. Steve effect this change would have compared to 2007-2008. The be able to attend school. students in high school to take Murdock, State demographer. on our campus. IfUH Main Anglo population decreased Dr. Paredes then gave his AP or IB classes, which are The mediator was Dr. Michelle does raise their standards, then from 42 percent to 35 percent, own speech that focused on good for college credit, and Moosally, President of the those students who do not while the Hispanic population the main cause ofestablishing having at least a B average UHD Faculty Senate. Dr. meet that standard will come increased from 40 percent admission standards. He exiting high school. One William Flores was also toUHD. tO 47 percent. Murdoch maintains that a 'Pajor statement that he reiterated present for the opening speech The first guest speaker was also stated that "Texas is problem lies with students see STANDARDS on page 3 Page 2 December 7 - February 8, 2010 Dateline : Downtown STUD DDT IIPD Model Winners at Seattle Debate The Ghosts of Black Friday Amanda White employee named Jdimytai Travis Alford the ultimate goal was to reach a consensus. CONTRIBUTING WRLTER Damour was trampled to death CONTRIBUTING WRITER UHD's resolve never waned. The fundamental while he and other employees views ofdelegates were impressed upon the To most Americans, Black were opening the doors for the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) committees and the decorum. The delegates Friday is considered the predawn sales. In an article Model United Nations Debate Team traveled from The University of Houston- Downtown largest shopping day ofthe from CNN.com, Bruce Both, to Seattle on Friday Nov. 13 2009 to compete triumphed through dialogue and engagement. year, which also signifies the president of United Food and in the Northwest Model United Nations Fortune favored the bold on Nov. 15, 2009 and official start ofthe holiday Commercial Workers Union (NWMUN) event held at the University of there were none bolder than UHD as most season. Black Friday falls on stated, "Where were the safety Washington. The intensity at the debate where outstanding delegation was earned. the fourth Friday in November barriers? Where was security?" high as competing universities proved to Model United Nations is an organization after Thanksgiving Day. Wal-Mart, Green Acres Mall, respectively that People usually go out to the and Securitas Security Services represent simulates the stores before sunrise to take USA faced a lawsuit from the their actual duties advantage of sale. Some people Damour family on December, countries and priorities get an early start by camping 3, 2008. in a debate. of the United outside stores on Thanksgiving To avoid a repeat oflast The buildup Nations evening. Most people find year's disaster, about eight to the (UN): peace­ Black Friday convenient, hundred Wai-Mart stores NWMUN keeping, because they can get their around the country remained could be helping in holiday shopping done early open twenty-four hours seen as emergencies, and save money by buying starting November 27, 2009. having and several items for less, but This change will not affect parallels preventing people who hate crowds and the majority ofsuper Wal­ to an arms nuclear like to get things done quickly Marts, since they are always race; the proliferation. logon to their favorite store's open twenty-four hours. In delegations When website to do their holiday an article from USAtoday. were conflicts shopping. com, David Tovar, a Wal-Mart mounting threaten Although Black Friday spokesperson, said, "Instead ammunition international may save time and money, oflining up outside Wal-Mart, The University of Houston-Downtown won outstanding delegation which was the top overall for every award. The University of Houston-Downtown Model United Nations Debate team includes security, it there are some downfalls to customers can already be possibility Jennifer Phillips, Travis Alford, Luis Galindo (Award Winner), Adam Tiffin (Award Winner), provides a the event. There is a growing shopping in different areas of ofconflict Sarah Mayer, Lissette Charcousse, and led by The HOUMUN President Eduardo Landaeta. forum for trend in which out ofcontrol the store until sales officially during negotiation; customers push and stampede begin at 5 am". debate. it can also their way into stores. A large So how did the tradition Many hours were spent in research and send peace-keepers to stabilize a crisis. At times, number ofpeople are hurt ofconsumers gone mad start considering diplomatic strategy on how to pilot the UN organizes humanitarian relief and food every year due to this (luckily anyway? The term Black the conversation to places where our respective supplies for millions of refugees and victims this seems to have diminished Friday is believed to originate country's position could change the game. The off a mine and natural disasters. Through the in 2009), and some stores back to the 1920s from a story actual debate was challenging in sustaining International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN suffer property damage due to about a man named Laurence focus on the topic while maintaining our has helped minimize the threat ofa nuclear war people breaking down doors Black, who worked for composure and respecting the serious decorum. by inspecting nuclear reactors in more thanl40 and windows. Last year, one Osberger's Department store The decorum is members ofthe staff that countries in order to ensure that nuclear person was killed by two for thirty years. Everyone in oversee each committee, appearing like judges material is not used for military purpose. These hundred anxious customers town came to know Mr. Black in room full ofattorneys. Division within are just a couple ofaffairs where the UN is on November, 28, 2008 a as the man with the black suit each of the 8 committees was expected, but unsurpassed. thirty-four year old Wal-Mart see BLACK on page 5 Online Sound-Bites Followers- 105 (Currently) Come join the discussion on Fans · 112 (Currently) twitter and possibly be featured in The Dateline Downtown. Come join the discussion on our fan Follow @TheDateline or search facebook page to answer questions that could be uhdat www.search.twitter.com featured in @The Dateline Downtown. Due to the addition of a new HD channel, UHD is no longer distinguishable. If you would like to be part of Online Sound-Bites please use @ symbol on either Facebook or Twittter to publish your thoughts. Dateline : Downtown December 7 - February 8, 2010 Page 3 Ready? Set? Register! STANDARDS l tt t th Ed. Continued from page 1 e er 0 e 1tor Brittany Musgrave you interested in? Knowing the CONTRIBUTING WRITER answer to that question will constantly was "Access without Dear Editor, make the process a whole lot preparation is not opportunity," It's that time again. The easier, because then you will which supports his claim that I'm an accounting major at UHD College of Business and as an race is on to see who will get know who you need to speak to high schools are to blame for accountant we are taught that full disclosure is always the best the classes they want. It's about course approval. such low scores upon entering policy. I was reading some ofthe criticism of the article "Who registration time again, and secondary education. makes, what". As a stakeholder ofUHD, I'm intrigued by the everyone should know what During the panel, someone incentives that motivate our UHD top officials. And if the critics to expect when everyone (UOnline asked the question "Why aren't like Gabriela don't care about being fully informed, then that goes through the motions of Register, Pay.Class Sthedule, we applying these standards would explain why our campus and country are in the current registering for the upcoming e.services.Blackboard Vista,.. to transfer students?" This is quagmire. semester and to get everyone a relevant question because properly prepared for the To register for classes, students must go UHD is a campus whose JONATHAN CASANOVA registration process. One ofthe into student e-services by clicking on the average student age is 28 and ACCOUNTING MAJOR UOnline link on the UHD website. many things that needs to be where many students have been considered is which major are Getting courses approved to school before. The panelists is the more time consuming answered that Contact Us part ofprepping for the for right now registration race. Generally you the focus is Managing Editor would speak to the Academic on freshman Wilbert Ch inchilla Advisors. They are here to help students. [email protected] .edu students out by approving the When asked (713) 221-8569 courses they've picked out, and whether the helping each student choose the school was Associat e Editor courses that would best benefit consciously Christina Rodriguez them. The advisors are located trying to [email protected] (713) 221-8569 in the Academic Advising recruit Center in the University traditional, Business Manager Center. If you have already first time Daniel Almanza declared your major you would in college [email protected] speak to the advisor in your students, Dr. (713) 221-8192 specific college about course Flores replied Staff Writers approval. that that is Judith Wattley Once you get approved something for your classes all you have they hope to Contributing Writers to do is register. You can do do. Dr. Flores Sana Tobaccowala that online at UHD.edu and stated that he Travis Alford click the U-Online link at wants there Brittany Musgrave the top. You'll log in using to be more of Jong Hyun Koh Amanda White your student identification a 'freshman Lindsay Young number and your password, experience' Jose Gutierrez then click my registration and that keeps Frank Raia schedule. You'll need your students CRN numbers which you can feeling like a Faculty Advisor get from the class schedule cohesive group Anthony Chiaviello option in U-Online. Who will rather than [email protected] get the classes they desire? Well an 'everyone (713) 221-8520 Gators, we'll have to wait and on their own' see in 2010. mentality.

Letters to t he Editor: Dateline welcomes letters to the editor from any member of the UH system. Letters should be no more than 250 words, include the author's full name, phone number or email address, and affiliation with the University, including classification and major. Anonymous letters will not be published. Deliver letters to Room S-260 Main Bldg; email them to [email protected]; fax them to (713) 221-8119. All submissions are subject to editing. Editorial Policy: The opinions and commentaries expressed within reflect t he views of the contributing writers. No opinions expressed in t he Dateline reflect the viewpoints of t he University of Houston-Downtown or its administration or st udents. Dateline reserves the right to edit or modify submissions for the sake of clarity, content, gramma~ or space limitations. Submissions should be sent to [email protected] in Microsoft Word format. All submissions become property of Dateline and may not be returned. If you have any quest ions, please call (713) 221­ 8569. Page4 December 7- February 8, 2010 Dateline : Downtown

0am p u8 n~ w8 Do you have tips? Contact us at [email protected] for any tips, events, or story ideas to cover. Meeti ~ g Hig-hlights Safety F ormer UHI:fStude-nt, Pham ~-=z~ in the Streets and School Found Dead After Alleged Murders Frank Raia Each student has had close CONTRIBUTING WRITER calls with cars nearly hitting Photography by Christina them, and that is what UHD Rodriguez The UHD Police had a college life is all about. Dodging safety meeting on November 16, cars and the Light Rail is part This was where Ken Pham 2009 at the Auditorium. UHD ofour life because they are lived with three happens to be a somewhat safe everywhere and hit people roomates who place. The recurring idea from all the time- until METRO were allegedly murdered by the the slideshow demonstration begins construction on Main former parl·lime given by Richard D. Boyle, Street. At UHD, nobody's been UHDstudenl. UHD Police Chief, was keeping hit by the Rail, but cars do hit Less than two people more often than you minutes away your belongings with you at fromUHD, all times. The other topic was think. Not quite splatter city, university officials that crime has gone up in some more likely just a tag orslight issued a campus places but gone down in others. tap; but, it does happen. The security alert asking students to People aren't aware that UHD city of Houston isn't going to be vigilant if Pham is actually a safe campus. do much to change the gauntlet were to be seen However, sometimes things ofbrewing carnage that Shea's on campus. happen in parking lots or on surrounding streets are. You school grounds; but with the can thank the Rail expansion cameras in place, some of the plan for that. In order to crimes are able to be solved. maintain safety from almost Generally most crimes certain never ending peril, be Judith Wattley victims was still holding a cell committed are theft because careful when crossing the street. CONTRIBUTING WRITER Grocery-Washateria gate, which phone to their ear, in what they people are stupidly leaving their Also, just because you was also his place ofresidence. thought was probably a cry for possessions unattended. Or see a camera doesn't mean The UHD killer has been Lozano yelled "There's a fire up help. It also seemed that when every few years a student goes they are watching you, UHD found. Ken Pham, who fled above. Don't close that security he started the fires, it was in bonkers and brings a bow and has over a hundred cameras from the scene, was considered gate," Pham then "turned different parts of the building. arrow to school trying to assault and that number will grow. missing until December I, around and pulled the gun on Autopsies have identified these a teacher. Ifthe suspect(s) So school will be even safer 2009; when he was found dead me." Pham then drove away in men to be forty-eight year old escapes pursuit, UHD Police soon. The gym and the metered in his car from a self innicted his 1996 green Toyota Camry, David Aguilar, fifty-three year will track them down to the parking lot next to it will be the gunshot. But it was November wearing a security guard old Scott Waldo, and forty year ends of the earth leaving no next area to be covered. They 15th, a Sunday night, when uniform. old Say Trier. stone unturned. Because do see things eventually. So neighbors heard eight gun shots Detectives later discovered UHD Gatormail issued a Texas is awesome, as long as please keep your eyes open and about 7pm at Brooks Street near that Pham shot and killed his campus security alert email that it happens on campus the fuzz when you see something that Common Street. Roy Lozano, three roommates, then set fire included his picture to inform can track whomever responsible looks suspicious say something. a local bar owner, heard the to the building in order to cover all students about Pham and down and pillage them. The cops can't do everything, gun shots and came outside to his tracks. The bodies ofthe to be on the lookout. A student Other than parking, getting (they need our help too) and not see what the disturbance was. victims were found tied up in source stated "This man was across Main Street and into saying something is helping ill He then saw the thirty-six year the closet, near the balcony, in my summer class. He was so Commerce and Shea buildings things happen to people and old part-time UHD student and in a bedroom. One ofthe quiet. Unbelievable ...." continues to be a problem. that is no bueno. In Search of A Provost Christina Rodriguez recommendations. working with the Senate ASSOCIATE EDITOR But why the search for a new Faculty and policy changes, Provost? The current Provost, but also with the UH System, The search for a new provost Molly Woods, announced at and even throughout the has continued with the help of Dr. Flores' convocation that state ofTexas. Whenever the consulting firm R. William she would be stepping down UHD introduces new degree Funk and Associates, but at the end ofthis semester programs, such as the new Fine more information has been and plans to take a hiatus, but Arts and Social Work degrees, found that sheds more light on ultimately wishes to be a part these must be advocated here their process of finding a new ofthe faculty again. She was in in Houston and statewide tO Provost and Vice President the business department before the Texas Legislature, because ofAcademic Affairs. In an being Provost, and will likely it is the Legislature that will interview with Dr. Flores, he return. Another possibility ultimately fund these new stated that the reason we are is that she may do other programs. using this firm is because the administrative work. Thejob advertisement for University of Houston System Dr. Flores stated that this this position has been posted had an existing contract is a good opportunity to have on higher education websites with them. This is the same another different set ofskills in such as the Chronicle of consulting firm that found Dr. administration. Provost Woods Higher Education, Hispanic Flores during our search for is regarded well by Dr. Flores, Outlook, Diverse Issues in a new president. Using this but he considers the fact that a Higher Education, and Women company was the easiest way new president and new provost in Higher Education, not to to begin recruiting. Funk and will be a more dynamic team in mention UHD's home page Associates has a working list a new, changed environment. on the right hand side. The ofthose individuals who have Dr. Flores also said he hopes committee and Dr. Flores hope been-looking for employment in to find someone with the to be conducting on-campus higher education, and this is the same values as the current interviews by February, first place they look. They then administration, but with a although applicants who send look at the list of those people different set ofexperiences. in their documents before who have been hired at various The Provost and VPAA December 31 will be given more schools and ask these people for position not only requires consideration. Admission Changes for Tier 1 long Hyun Koh increase the minimum score equivalent level as Texas Tech Black with a moment ofsilence CONTRIBUTING WRTIER ofSAT and ACT scores. Until University and UT-Dallas. BLACK at exactly 7:48 pm, which is the now UH used to accept most of Recently, among the time Mr. Black died. Honoring Continued from page 2 University of Houston· Main the students who ranked below students who enrolled as a Mr. Black became a tradition Campus (UH) announced that 20% in high school. freshman at UH, the percentage with a red carnation on the for Osberger's Department Store it will make the admission Entel states that the ofthe students who graduate front jacket pocket. Black was and other stores around the city standards stricter than ever purpose ofthe foundation of in 6 years is only 42%. This a much respected man in the for many years to come. before. According to John UH was to offer education percentage is much lower local retail industry, and was Due to the growth of Entel, the Dean ofAcademic to working class people. For than the average graduation offered the opportunity to train technology, more people are Affairs at UH, by raising the people who cannot go to rate ofthe universities in other new workers as Osberger's participating in a event related the admission standard, UH UH because of its elevated Texas, which is 56%. Some Department Store expanded in to Black Friday called Cyber can receive superior students admission standards, they people are concerned that this the 1950s. Black died ofa heart Monday. Cyber Monday is from many schools all over can choose UH-Downtown change ofadmission standards attack on November, 27, 1964 on the Monday following the cou!ltry and enhance its as their alternate option. may decrease the number of while finishing up his twelve Thanksgiving, and is the largest reputation as well as graduation UH-Downtown currently freshman students and harm hour shift at work. The next online shopping day ofthe rate. Entel insists that this will employs the open admission the cultural diversity at UH day, Osberger's Department year. It is designed for people be the first step to make UH policy for students who campus. But Entel said that Store remained closed, while who don't like crowds, like one ofthe top-ranking schools graduated from a high school or the current racial distribution the owner joined other retail convenience, like to put their in the U.S. He claims that passed the GED. Even though ofUH is very diversely workers around the city to purchases on reserve to pick up UH will raise the standards UH tries to raise its admission constituted: White 35%, mourn Black's death. The at a later time, and for people for admission gradually and standard, it won't be as hard Hispanic 20%, Asian 20%, and next year on the Friday after who prefer to pay for products continuously. According to the as getting into University of Black 13.5%. This item will Thanksgiving, all employees at using credit. Like stores, online data presented by the council Texas at Austin or Texas A&M be discussed by the council of Osberger's Department store retailers and store websites ofUH, the new admission University-College Station. UH thoroughly where new wore black suits or dresses offer sales and deep discounts standard will limit the number However, the school authorities admission standards will along with a red carnation on goods and services, and ofstudents who are considered expect that UH will reach to an possibly be applied starting in in memory of Mr. Black. All also online sales and discounts as Open Admission and 2011. employees also remembered Mr. see BLACK on page 7 Page6 December 7 -February 8, 2010 Dateline : Downtown

aDIT0R I a I The Dateline Down!own accepts editorials from students. Has something irked you on campus? Has something gone well? .7.:=7."'"·=7.·'"·=:7=====~- Conta~t U§. at _Da~ell fl~_@l,9§!or.u_hd.ed!:!:_ ==--==-~-=--==~===~~===~=~~-=-~=~====·==:-=~' ~~;?~L~:e~~~;~~. ~~~~~. ~:~;:~~D RealCON"t CONTRIBUTING WRITER can see the old TV's from the game- Do you have a Pro response? Please Contact us at [email protected] room days. UHD is deciding on a plan to build December 2, 2009, 4:45pm - I'm I guess certain administration a student lounge for students where the library or another computer lab, so currently sitting at this university in needed bigger offices to buy useless they can hang out before or after class, students are able to have more areas to the non-smoking section on my laptop mini Frisbee's and shitty pens that and have a place which is informal and do research for classes. There are many and I decided that this letter was a long don't write, with UHD badly printed unstructured. However, there are quite more efficient ways that this money time coming, (pause taking a drag of on them; which we as students pay a few downsides ofthis move, such as could be spent to benefit students. The my cigarette). I am about to graduate for anyway. (Light another cigarette). possible tuition increase with the cost of fact that we are located on the edge of this December. There have been several SGA is under the poorest leadership building this new lounge. This means Downtown would make it difficult to things that have happened in order for in its history; I've seen monkey shit that students are going to. have to pay create space for this upcoming lounge. me to get to this point, but that's not fights that are more organized than more for something they may not even This could cause problems because important anymore. (Pause as I take this poor excuse of a SGA. They also use. Another point is the logistics that student organizations that use specific another drag). I am a very proud future have shitty little pens and pads that are involved in making this lounge and rooms for their clubs or meetings may graduate of this University. don't write, which are also paid by us. its effects on students' lives. The money have to move or find another place. First and foremost to all the UHD's Green Sustainability plan is going towards this lounge might end There is also the problem with noise students, listen and learn from what I a poor idea ofa joke with one crappy up being provided by students through from the renovations. The students am about to say because it's the truth. I garden, one Ford Escape Hybrid and increased tuition fees in the near future. are not going to be able to complete decided to write this because I'm tired some bad recycling plan that does not Students have a hard enough time assignments in quiet areas when sounds of repeating myself and nobody listens. include aluminum or glass, solar power, paying their regular tuition fees and to are going to be escalating from various To all the professors who have a wind power or pretty much anything add something that is unnecessary is places in the building. This could also constant passing rate of less than 35% else. The UHD police department is difficult for most students. Moreover, hurt students' concentration in class and ofthe class, what the fuck is your major under staffed and 50% of them are out the money that would be budgeted disturb time in the cafeteria spent trying malfunction? Do you not know or care? of shape to boot. for this student lounge could be used to relax. Therefore, it is important Ifstudents leave and can't pass, it's your It would be funny to see a foot race in better ways such as adding more for students to speak up and give fault we have an 18% retention rate. It with these guys against some heavy restaurants to campus so there are more considerable thought towards a student is the lower 50% of the students that smokers. (As I take another drag choices for students, as all students have lounge. It may sound nice to have one, require help, not the top 50%. and exhale the smoke slowly). An to eat and to have more selection would but it may also be unnecessary and You could put many obstacles in be ideal for most ofus. The money cause additional problems. front oftop students, but they will see GRAD on page 8 could also be put towards more books in still overcome the odds. The .--­------_]------­ bottom ofthe barrel students and border line students are the bread and butter of this college. To brush them offis to provide a bad service and last time I checked, this is a service based business. (Puff, puff, the tip of the cig burns bright red). Then again, the administration needs to get a clue on how to provide Holiday MiniTerm a service first. Semester Student advising is a joke reg istration ends hccs.edu and so are the advisors; I'm and classes begin Credit Hours not sorry, it's true. The parking is bullshit, and what the fuck December 14th in Three happened to my game-room? classes run through January 5 When I first started at this Weeks w~c university back in 2001, we had -•'-' a pretty good one. Where was my place ofrelaxation when I had to spend 16 to 18 hours Houston Commumty College's Mm1 Term classes let you make the most of your holiday here in this shitty building? It used to be in the area now Dateline : Downtown December 7- February 8, 2010 Page 7

0 T RiaIn m I! n'TheDateline Downtown accepts unsolicited music, film, and video game reviews from 8RT8 0 ·-na . ·- stud!nts. Have an event to pr~ote or cover? Contact us at Dateline@ga~~!:~~~~du~ ~

A Modern Twist on a Classic Carol seasonalsetstolaughyou BLACK through Scrooges life. After all Continued from page 5 family favorite Christmas Show. had given up on him, Scrooge sometimes last longer than sales There were children from ages truly defines redemption. This in the stores. For consumers, 6 to grandparents in attendance foggy production created by Black Friday means great deals Saturday night. The excitement Award-winning scenic designer on the hottest products ofthe was electric ringing in the Tony Straiges (Alley's Who's season. For businesses, Black reminder that the holidays are Afraid ofVirginia Woolf?), Friday means increased profits here. The alley theatre is lit up costumes by Alejo Vietti and placement into the black, or with a lot ofChristmas trees that (Alley's Rock n Roll), original in terms ofaccounting practices, tower over the lobby. Every seat music by John Gromada being in the black means to gain in the theatre is a great one. The (Alley's Treasure Island), and profit, while on the other hand, play is roughly two hours with a lighting by Rui Rita (Alley's being in the red means that twenty minute intermission. To Kill a Mockingbird), ended businesses are losing profit. This The contemporary Associate in a roaring standing ovation. beliefabout businesses going Director and Alley's own This is a wonderful time for a into the black on Black Friday lmave via Alley Theatre James Black puts a futuristic date, a family, or flying solo. A has proven to be untrue, as most Performers in ghost costumes in the modern produotion of "A Christmas Carol". twist on the old play. This Christmas Carol A Ghost ofa businesses really generate the Travis Alford for the 22nd year ofCharles classic story follows Ebenezer Christmas left cheer in my heart most profit on the days closer to CONTRIBUTING WRITER Dickens' "A Christmas Carol A Scrooge (Jeffrey Bean) as he and a smile on my face. Christmas. Ghost Story ofChristmas." The revisits past experiences with On Saturday November dress was dressy, the cheer was the three ghosts that visit 21, 2009 The Alley Theatre jolly, and the atmosphere rang him on Christmas Eve. Black downtown opened its doors ofthe holidays for Houston's uses eye popping props, and Taking Back Concerts

Lindsay Young come a long way this year. In in 2008, CONTRIBUTING WRITER response to their success, Taking has come back in 2009 not only Back Sunday's lead singer, Adam with a new guitarist and backup With a large blue and red Lazzara said, "When we first vocals, Matt Fazzi, but also a banner hung high, swirling started we just wanted to tour and new released back in June lights, screaming fans and ready have music be our line ofwork. called . The band got to go security, one of Warner So to have accomplished so much to work with some ofthe greatest Bros and Reprise Records' finest is just amazing. I mean, I still feel producers out there, such as bands hit Houston's House of like we have a really long way to David Kahne (who has worked Blues stage on their headlining go, but we have the best jobs ever. with Paul McCartney, Sublime, tour on November 30. With I don't think that when the band and Stevie Nicks) and producer one broken footed guitarist and started we knew where it was (who has worked back up vocals, a lead singer going to go, we just went." with , , with a swinging microphone, an Upon finding out about the and 3oh13). Their first single on aggressive bassist, an all original Transformers movie soundtrack this album, , was guitarist full of love for music, for this year, Lazzara was a little released before the album and and a passionate drummer, you confused. The movie ended up represents real life emotion. have yourself the five-piece band using a song offthe new album For the video ofSink Into Taking Back Sunday. Now on called Capital M-E, rumored Me that was released in April of tour with Houston's Buzzfest to be about the loss oftheir 2009, the band is actually in a veterans and popular guitarist Fred Mascherino. Just silly putty mix that they created radio favorites, All American reading the lyrics ofthe song can on set. "That song in particular Rejects, Taking Back Sunday has get the listener stirred up with is a good indication of where the really brought on a great value for emotions ofbetrayed friendship, band is at right now.. . It is a very co-headlining shows. a message often covered in songs literal interpretation ofthe title of With nominations from the on Taking Back Sunday . the song. It was a fun experience Teen Choice Awards and having However, Lazzara feels that the and I was purple for a week after one oftheir new songs featured in sound ofthe song was odd for the that," Lazzara said. this year's Transformers movie, Transformers movie. Although Lazzara was excited Taking Back Sunday has really Having lost Fred Mascherino see TBS on page 8 PageS December 7- February 8, 2010 Dateline : Downtown Present Artwork Li ndsay Young out for us," Allman said. with a rough idea ofa serial CONTRIBUTING WRITER Bringing a new drummer killer stalking scenario. It to the scene has also changed worked out perfectly. It was Released Aug. 31, the things up for The Used. meant to be," Allman said. brutally dark and twisted songs According to Allman he "This song is pissed and we of Reprise Records band The brought a lot of focus for the really wanted to come out Used have returned in a new group. Dan Whitesides, having strong. It's our favorite song and twisted album entitled been the drummer for The on the album. It's a great sing · Artwork. Having been started Used since 2006, and finally along and its just powerful. in the business with the help recording with them in 2008 for We thought it would be a good ofJohn Feldmann in 2001, Artwork was a great bonding choice." w ith this album The Used time for the band as well as a This album covers many takes Artwork in a different growing experience. different messages, one of them and darker direction with The first single for the about living a reckless life producer Matt Squire (Panic at album is the song Blood On which could cause an accidental the Disco, , etc). My Hands. With lyrics like, death, loosely referenci ng the Guitarist Quin Allman seems "There's death ofHeath Ledger. The to think having a new producer like the blood in you," listeners dark themes covered in this has brought out some oftheir are sure to be looking for a new and unique album from best stuff. vicious video to follow. The The Used are sure to draw "It is probably one ofour Used definitely came through. their diehard fans and future heaviest records to some degree. One oftheir most intense videos listeners in like a fly to a spider We lived in a house and worked ever to be released, this video web· wrapped up in it. This on songs for about two or three is full ofsmoke, blood, knives, album is a definite listen for months. We worked with Matt and anger. Allman and lead those who are fans ofpop and Squire so that was new for us. singer Bert McCracken came up heavy music combined. He laid back and let us do what with the plot of the video. Pho·loaraohvbvUndsayYoung _w_e_w_a_n_t_ed_to_._I_t _re_a_ll..;.y_w_o_r_k_e_d___"_W _e_b_as_ic_a_l..:ly..:j..;.u_st_c_a_m_e_u:..p_-r------'-"-'-'--'-'-""-'-'-A'-Uma;;.:.;n-"pl=ays a riff off of the band the Used's album, Atlwo(k.

such as Cute Without the E (Cut even coming to work at all. bad. I will miss homeless people TBS From the Team), Decade Under GRAD Maybe it's the fact thatthe showering in the sinks on the Continued from page 7 the Influence, MakeDamnSure, Continued from page 6 food selection is limited and third floor restrooms. The and What's It Feel Like to Be A overpriced since UHD is same people who watch porn Ghost? Even though the band fleecing and gouging the rent in the library and pan-handle about the making ofthe video performed a lot ofthe old crowd underfunded and super small to the vendors; thus, increasing for change and cigarettes. I will for the si ngle, he feels that pleasers, Lazzara truly enjoys library with little to no books. the price for food. Let's not miss students on the south side Taking Back Sunday's live playing his songs off the New Career services that can't help forget the fun game called wall ofthe 8th floor computer performance is what really Again album "I like playing the anyone find a job (I have yet running for your life every time Jab watching porn and playing counts. He feels that with a newer songs just because the to meet anyone who has found you cross the street dodging video games instead of doing great live performance, he is more you play a song the more a job through career services). cars and buses. their work. The always nice, really getting in touch with the it develops. Little things in the What about a book store that Finally, we come to the yet underpaid custodial staff fans as well as the music that he song will start to change so it· receives over priced books late smoking section. (As I Open a are wonderful people; if you has created. When fans are able is kind oflike you really get to that also cannot be sold back. new pack ofcigarettes and light stop for a second to get to knQw to sing songs back to him at a explore all the possibilities for The Cashiers' office window another). Apparently many them. show, he says "just to know that the song and grow closer to it," that usually only has three of you non-smokers have a The few good professors, you can affect somebody and Lazarra said. employees when there is a line problem with me; even some old worth the!!. weight in gold, are possibly help them out through They closed the show ofover 100 students, which is guy who asks me if I can read either gone or are not allowed something that you love to do with their guitarist Eddie the same for financial aid. because I'm smoking outside to teach the class that best is just a great feeling. There has Reyes playing guitar on the What the fuck is the problem typing on a bench marked with suits them. I could go on but I always been this raw energy bar, Lazzara swinging the with printing checks instead of a no smoking sign on it. To him challenge you to fix this; I've surrounding the band and for microphone those last few times useless gator-one cards that rape I politely respond, "fuck-om at done my best but I'm only one me going to a show has always and Fazzi running and stomping you at every ATM machine ­ least I'm not smoking indoors". man; but after reading this, been kind of an escape. It is like around even on his broken left even their own ATM. Thank I have no covered smoking hopefully you can become the outside world stays outside. foot. Leaving Houston with you for giving the students section to shelter me from many. Ifthey want to raise the People coming to our shows can these final lyrics, "I just wanna another way to lose money. the rain and maybe snow this tuition, maybe they can better hopefully forget about all that break you down so badly, in What about the business Friday. There are literally many manage money they get now. and just get lost in the moment. the worst way." A final wave hours on Fridays that imply entrances to this building; pick Ernest Hemingway once wrote, For me, that is a very important ended the night as the band left Friday is no longer a regular one to come in and out and we "The world is a fine place and thing," a thrilled crowd running for the business day for the book store, will stay away- I promise. worth fighting for." I agree with Their live set featured many merchandise. cafeteria or the administration. (Angrily puffing). Things the second part. This place is of their old and popular singles Some leaving at 3pm or not need to change, but it's not all definitely worth fighting for.