A STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF -CLEAR LAKE

PENGUINS PAGE 12 TVolumeT XXXVII,H Number 6 E Swww.uhcl.edu/thesignalIGNALApril 20,2009 UNIVERSITY BUDGET Decisions, Decisions PROPOSES A STUDENT Overcrowding Issues UHCL Plague Upcoming SUCCESS CENTER Graduations Jenna Simsen success center in March to Carl Stockton, senior vice The Signal Staff president for academic affairs and provost. The idea was taken to Staples who then publicly presented his Brenda Cabaniss marshal would have contacted In a recent budget proposal from William Staples, goals to the university community. The Signal Staff the security guards at the gates the -Clear Lake president With information gathered from the pilot program of Reliant Park and had the announced his top priorities regarding the usage developed in the spring of 2008, the university was Now that the Ides of March guards notify arriving guests of of funds for fiscal year 2010. One item on the list able to gauge the amount of student interest and has passed, Easter is a mere the issue. Those guests would was the proposal for an on-campus Student Success desire to expand the success program in to a success distant memory of white rabbits have been refused entry into Center. center. The pilot program involved 100 students who and colorful eggs. The next the arena. However, that was Darlene Biggers, associate vice president for participated in a tutoring program and 150 students thing to look forward to are May not done because of a break in student services, originally proposed the student Student Success: continued on page 10 flowers, right? Well, for most communication. Thus, the excess people yes, but for many students number of people posed a safety and parents across the country-- hazard. it’s graduation. Included in that In order to avoid similar Cinco de Mayo Celebration eager bunch are University of circumstances for next month’s Houston-Clear Lake students. graduation ceremony, UHCL This year, graduates get a little officials are politely asking added surprise. graduates to keep their invite Students planning to graduate numbers down. spring 2009 have one more item “Approximately 1100 students to add to their never-ending, To- have applied for graduation in Do List. Now, UHCL seniors have May,” said Yvette Bendeck, the pleasure of deciding which associate vice president for family members get to partake in enrollment management. “Of the graduation festivities because those applicants, 900 students for this semester’s ceremony have chosen to participate in the graduates are being asked to commencement ceremony.” “voluntarily restrict” their guest However, the problem is not lists. with the number of graduates “This year, the university or their guests, but mostly due is asking that graduates limit to the size of the venue. UHCL their guests to five,” said Paul graduations are held at Reliant Willingham, chief of police for Arena. The arena has a seating UHCL. capacity of 5,800 and an overflow The request is not to add room of 600. another burden to students. To put things into perspective, Instead, school officials are take for example a graduate requesting the limit as a safety who has been waiting for this Jade Emanuel: The Signal precaution. They want to avoid moment for 30 years. He is overcapacity problems that married, has three married Because final exams fall on the week of May 5, the HACE student organization sponsored an early Cinco have plagued UHCL graduation children, 10 grandchildren and de Mayo celebration, where the Mexico Ballet performed and promoted Mexican culture through their ceremonies in the past. a few neighbors that have stood high energy folklore dances. At last December’s ceremony, by him for the long haul. That for example, crowd control was alone would be 20 guests for one an issue when Reliant Arena’s graduate. Multiply that number maximum capacity limit was by 900 graduates and “Houston, UHCL Postpones Expansion Proposal exceeded by 1,000 people. Under we have a problem.” Even if each normal circumstances, the fire graduate only invited 10 guests, Graduation: continued on page 10 Luis Aceves other factors,” said William very multifaceted subject and The Signal Staff Staples, president of University of many factors go into account to Houston-Clear Lake. determine the best strategy to The proposed legislation UHCL’s plans for downward address the planning of downward regarding the downward expansion was approved by The expansion. IN THIS ISSUE expansion was originally set to University of Houston System “Fundraising is something have been introduced to the Board of Regents last December. that we are always going to be Legislature in the 2009 session, One of the plan’s qualifications mindful of,” McInnis said. “We however it has been decided that to be met was that UHCL would know there is always going to the proposal will be postponed begin admitting freshman in 2012. be fundraising and we know we until the 2011 session. “Whether the downward will always need scholarships. Many items of importance expansion was proposed during Fundraising never kicks in until regarding downward expansion the 2009 legislative session or the plan is approved. were taken into account the 2011 session, our original “We first must obtain a clear concerning this decision. Some resolution was to admit freshmen understanding of what our donors of these items include the further by 2012,” Staples said. “We are are willing to support. From there discussion of the needs among planning to be prepared for that on, we can then start to determine groups and organizations of key date.” our needs. Then we can begin interest such as the local school If there is an approval from to examine our vision, value districts and community colleges. the state legislature in 2011, “it and needs and see how we may “Once the university obtains is an approval to start planning align ourselves with the interests the authority for downward but it is not required to act on of our donors and other fellow expansion, we will decide it,” said Dion McInnis, associate supporters. We both have visions, what year we will exercise that vice president for university values and needs and depending authority based on the financial advancement at UHCL on where those overlap will WRESTLEMANIA HOOKS BASEBALL PAGE 7 condition of the university, among McInnis noted that this is a determine our options.” PAGE 6 2 April 20, 2009 Success center proposal brings important issues to mind Students’ success is directly propor- most centers is to help students realize and tional to the support a college or university achieve their academic goals while maxi- offers to its students. mizing their potential. Recently, a budget proposal was This would be an absolute boon for presented that included a proposal for a the students and faculty at University Student Success Center. This center would of Houston-Clear Lake. Students who serve as a hub that provides services for have problems with a required class, for students so we can readily find help as example Advanced Writing, can be sent we progress through college careers and to three places to start with: the teacher, beyond. the library and the Writing Center. From While our humble college has numer- there, where can they go? If there are no ous services and offices to help students solutions at any of those places, what is succeed, there is no centralized office to the student left to do? direct students when in need. The help that will be offered at a If a student needs help writing, go to Student Success Center will not only assist the Writing Center. If a student needs help current students, but also those transition- practicing for the GSP , talk to one of ing into our campus from other back- the communication professors. If a student grounds. Potential incoming freshmen needs help with finding a book, ask a could receive classes and help in managing librarian. What if you just plain need help their time, balancing school life and other though? difficult tasks that we, as upperclassmen, Is there a genuine need for a center? I overlook, but are vital to succeed in transi- do not mean just a few scattered offices, tioning from high school to college life. but a genuine, honest-to-goodness office At this point having a Student Success where the staff specializes in giving help to Center would be where students could all students are able to direct efforts to help turn, but for now there is no place for students. students to go. You might as well ask if there is a need Investing in the center and setting aside for a telephone book, or Google, or even a precious funds so help for students can directory. always be given would be a sound invest- A Student Success Center that not only ment to make now for the long run. is dedicated to the success of its students, When identifying the potential markup but also thrives-nay-survives on the suc- of tuition and other fees to counterbal- cess of the students would be a beneficial ance the funding for the center, students investment for the college. and other involved parties would have to What services would the center pro- identify and weigh the options, but the vide? real question that needs to be addressed is Other schools across the country have simple. similar programs. One common goal of Can we afford not to?

Rami Schindler: The Signal

We are now on

The Signal staff invites students, faculty and staff to visit our new blog via our Twitter site at www.twitter.com/uhclthesignal to voice your comments and opinions about anything involving UHCL campus life. To Do List

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Editor Matt Griesmyer Broadcast Reporters Hayley Shaw The Signal is a public forum and will print Address letters to: letters to the editor subject to the following: The Signal Lindsey Lashway letters must be no longer than 500 words. UH-Clear Lake Assistant Editor Jenna Simsen Where necessary, letters will be edited for 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Box 456 Reporters/ Luis Aceves grammar, spelling and style requirements. Houston, TX 77058 Designers Jade Emanuel Photographers Brenda Cabaniss Letters must be signed and include the Christi Minter Derek Calhoun writer’s full name, address and phone Reach the staff: Tina Di Vora number. The editors reserve the right to Phone: 281-283-2570 Assistant Designers Shawnie Boudreaux Adolfo Gonzalez refuse letters, announcements and Fax: 281-283-2569 Britney Godfrey Mark Guillory contributed articles deemed libelous. E-mail: [email protected] Aide Ramirez William Humbird Nancy T. Nguyen Videographers/ Savannah Drake Lucia Y. Rodriguez Ad Manager/ Lindsay Humphrey Video Editors Dustin Koch Dianna Shaw Production Asst. Hayley Shaw Web Master Lindsey Lashway Editorial Cartoonist Rami “Fenris” Schindler Faculty Adviser Taleen Washington 3 The Signal

Pregnant And Not Sixteen

It all started get a lighter for some birthday candles we needed about seven right away. I grabbed the first lighter I saw and months ago. waited in line. I smiled at the cashier who looked at Hurricane Ike me funny and said “I.D?” I stared at her in shock as hit pretty hard, she continued, “You need to be at least 18 to buy a leaving us without lighter here.” I was so upset that I just walked out of electricity and the store. As I drove home I came to the conclusion more importantly, that in a few months I was going to look without anything like a pregnant teen, a statistic. to do for almost I know it sounds stupid, but three weeks. for some reason it really both- Times were ered me. I vowed never to Savannah Drake tough and my put another ribbon in my hair The Signal Staff husband and I ever again and to start dress- were forced to ing more like an adult. entertain each other. As Forrest Gump would say When I finally decided “that’s all I have to say about that.” to share my feelings, I called my Hazardous Duty Fast forward to a month and a half later mother. After she stopped laugh- and you can hear the phrase, “Hey babe, I ing, she gave me some good It is a topic that makes a think I’m pregnant,” coming out of my advice. She first asked if I was lot of people uneasy. As many mouth. After the initial shock we happy with my situation. “Of people who are employed now became super excited about our new course I am,” I responded are walking around on egg family unit. I took it as a personal op- promptly. “Well then, that’s shells. There will probably portunity to demonstrate to everyone all that matters,” she told me. not be workers on television that I had indeed grown up and was I know it’s pretty simple advice, but it ready to become, not only a parent, but always sounds so much better coming from boycotting their wages any an adult in general. your mother. Anyway, that’s when I real- time soon now with the present Even at the age of 23, I felt like I ized how lucky I was to be in my situa- economy. was still being looked at and treated as tion in the first place. I was so happy One employee’s supervisor a child. Now my 4’11” frame, freckles about being a mommy that letting flat-out told him the railroad Mark Guillory and hair ribbon may not have helped my stupid stuff bother me was ridiculous. just had a huge layoff and The Signal Staff cause, but things were going to change Now that people can tell I have those terminated employees because I was going to become a mother. a bun in the oven, I get comments The is facing will be looking for jobs. We decided to go to Arkansas to spread all the time. The most common difficulties it has not experi- This type of behavior from the news to my husband’s family. Every- are “Oh, but you’re so little,” and enced since the Great Depres- upper management is probably one was so excited and happy to hear of our “It’s even harder when you’re announcement that my mother-in-law personally younger,” but I shake it off. I sion of the 1930s; at least not helpful to a work environ- took my sister-in-law and I to celebrate. We pulled just needed a reminder on that is what the news tells us. ment and can be downright up to Chili’s restaurant and as I got out of the car, how not to care what Watching television it seems dangerous. I began to feel that pregnancy glow everyone talks other people think that job opportunities are van- Demeaning people who are about. and just do what ishing by the minute. already worried about losing We walked to our table and I could feel my you do. I guess It is true that the unemploy- their jobs can cause an uneasy radiance lighting up the room. We sat down and the that advice can ment rate is up to 8.5 percent work environment. waitress began handing out our menus. She then work in regard to – the highest it has been since Another employee tells the placed a child’s menu and crayons in front of me. anything concerning 1992 when it was 7.5 percent. story of how a co-worker was Seriously. My pink pregnancy glow suddenly life. Things are going to This grow- released turned green with disgust and embarrassment; happen; you just have to from his job well, actually I turned green because I needed deal and make do with what ing statistic “It is true that to vomit, but you get the idea. you have or, you can look at it like seems to have and drove A few weeks later I was once again mistaken for Juno, “I’m already pregnant so what other kind a lot of out-of- the unemploy- around in an underage teen. I ran to the convenience store to of shenanigans can I get into?” work people ment rate is up the park- concerned, ing lot for but it also has to 8.5 percent – 30 minutes some who the highest it has afterward. are employed Other concerned. been since 1992 employees Many when it was 7.5 were scared people now to even go feel trapped percent.” outside. and obligated Compa- to a job they - Mark Guillory nies have the may not like The Signal right to hire out of fear of and fire who being unable to they want, find another. but sometimes the outcome Not only does this seem to can be dangerous, especially be the harsh reality for em- when handled the wrong way. ployees, it also seems to be an So with a rising unemployment advantage for some employers. rate, businesses should remain With a soaring unemployment as professional as possible. rate, some businesses that A hostile work atmo- seem recession proof may have sphere lowers the morale too much power. of its employees, and this The concern is that indus- hurts production. Companies tries exempt from the mas- should always remember those sive job layoffs have started employees who were loyal to treating their employees more them because the economy ruthlessly. Knowing that other will rebound. Companies who companies are laying off their mistreat good employees will employees who will actively stand a good chance of losing be looking for work, makes them when the economy gets their present employees more better. expendable. 4 April, 20 2009 The Real Basis of Civilization

William Humbird The Signal Staff

“Life is too short to drink tasteless beer,” a simple motto that Saint Arnold’s owner, Brock Wagner, uses to begin the tour of his brewery off Highway 290 in north Houston. Saint Arnold is Texas’ oldest craft brewery, as the awning outside their office proudly claims, with its 15-year anniversary taking place this summer. Wagner left his job in investment banking to start the company in 1994. Wagner named the brewery Saint Arnold after the Bishop of Metz, who was canonized by the Roman Catholic Church as the patron saint of brewers. A story that Wagner used to recant during his tours, and now simply posts on Saint Arnold’s Web site, tells the tale of St. Arnold’s final miracle. “In 641, the citizens of Metz requested that St. Arnold’s body be exhumed and ceremo- niously carried to Metz for reburial in their Church of the Holy Apostles,” tells the story from Saint Arnold’s Web site. “During this voyage a miracle came to pass in the town of Champignuelles. The tired porters and followers stopped for a rest and walked into a tavern for a drink of their favorite beverage. Regretfully, there was only one mug of beer to be shared, but that mug never ran dry and all of the thirsty pilgrims were satisfied.” Wagner tells a simpler story of why St. Arnold was so beloved by his parishioners. “St. Arnold used to walk around and tell people to drink beer; it’s a gift from God.” Wagner said. “Needless to say, he was extremely popu- lar with the villagers of Metz.” St. Arnold had legit- imate reasons for pro- moting beer over water. At that point, villagers had not discovered how to separate drinking water from sewage, and beer is boiled during the brewing process, so it was safer to drink. In its 15 years of operation, the Saint Ar- nold brewery has grown in popularity, paving the way for a $6 million expansion. By the end of the year, Saint Arnold will be moving into its new home Top Left: Saint Arnold employee Mark Boguslavsky loads bottles of Saint Arnold’s at 2000 Lyons Ave, in a Amber into boxes for shipping to local stores. former Houston Indepen- dent School District Food Top Right: The mural of St. Arnold resides over the tasting bar at the Saint Ar- Services Building. The date nold’s brewery. of the actual move is still unknown because of delays Bottom Right: People wait outside of Saint Arnold’s in construction. to take a tour of the brewery. Wagner hopes the new brewery will allow for Bottom Left: Pallets of kegs and cases of Saint increased brewing capacity, Arnold beer are lined up before being placed on trucks as well as, more amenities for shipping. Saint Arnold brewed 660,000 gallons of for people going on the beer in 2008. tours. “The new building will have A/C, which is nice in Photos by William Humbird: The Signal the summer months,” Wag- ner said. “And a lot more restrooms.” The restroom issue grew as the popularity of the brewery tours grew. The number of visitors at the tours used to range from 20 to 30. Volunteers like Peet Bighorse, who has been coming to the tour for 14 years, estimated the number of people on the April 11 tour to be more than 600. “It’s great,” Bighorse said. “Where else can I go to meet new people and try great beers for free?” The brewery tour used to be free, but because of the overwhelming number of beer fans who show up, Saint Arnold charges $5 per person to go on the tour. The tour does come with a pilsner-style tasting glass and four wooden nickels that individuals can trade in to have their tasters filled. The tours start at 1 p.m., but plan on arriving early, since the line was out to the street by 12:45 p.m. For information on the tour and a map to the brewery, visit Saint Arnold’s Web site at www.saintarnold.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS Galveston County Fair and Golden Dragon Acrobats: China’s Senior Art Exhibit Clear Lake Greek Festival 2009 Rodeo Premiere Acrobatic Troupe April 13-June 11 April 24, 25, & 26 April 17-25 April 24 Bayou Building Art Gallery Clear Lake Park, Landolt Pavillion Jack Brooks Park Miller Outdoor Theatre www.clearlakegreekfestival.com www.galvestoncountyfair.com 281-FREE-FUN April 20, 2009 5 The Signal EXTRA! EXTRA! UHCL communication students set new record,winning 34 awards in state and national collegiate competitions

Dianna Shaw The Signal Staff

Student Publication Sometimes the hardest part is the waiting; communication majors from the University of Houston-Clear Lake anxiously awaited the results Awards Received: of their hard work at the awards ceremony the100th Texas Intercollegiate Press Association convention April 9-11. Spring 2009 “This year student publications won a total of 34 awards at both the state and national level,” Student Publications won 33 awards for work said Taleen Washington, faculty adviser for student produced during the 2008 school year: 23 state and 10 publications. “Each year our students compete against the best in their field, and each year our national. Newspaper won 14 awards at state and 2 at students more than hold their own.” national. Magazine won 9 awards at state and 8 awards A total of five UHCL communication students at national competition. Plus, one student won an on- attended the convention: Matt Griesmyer, The site competition while attending the conference – for a Signal editor; Jenna Simsen, The Signal assistant total of 34 awards. editor; Amy Garcia, current Bayousphere editor; Laurie Perez, Bayousphere designer and Lindsay State Competition: Humphrey, production assistant. Awards were Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) given for on-site competitions as well as for previously published works. Entries are evaluated NEWSPAPER by expert media representatives from around the First Place Winners: country. Special Section/Edition Staff (Election Edition) “The best feeling ever was how proud I felt of Picture Story Staff (Hurricane Ike) myself and my school,” Simsen said. “We were News Feature Story Krystin Hewitt (NASA–50 Years) surrounded by many other schools, some with Sports Feature Story Cryss Godoy (Roller Derby) teams of ten or more. We were able to shine with Headline Staff (Tangled Web) our elite handful of five students who represented Second Place Winners: our school with pride.” Laurie Vaesa-Perez: The Signal Sports Action Photo Cryss Godoy (Roller Derby) University of Houston-Clear Lake Sports Feature Photo Jorge De La Garza (Selvin Velasquez) communication majors generally spend one Laurie Vaesa-Perez’s feature photo of Dallas resident Daniel Third Place Winners: semester on the staff of The Signal newspaper or Editorial Jeff Meier (Possible tuition relief) Crider earned her an honorable mention award for On-site Bayousphere literary magazine while enrolled Feature Photo at this year’s TIPA convention. News Feature Story Jenna Lewis (Eyewitness) in either the newspaper or magazine publication Feature Photo Karen Raney (Oscar) classes. In contrast, many of the other students Honorable Mention Winners: entered in the competitions spend up to four years Sports Feature Photo Laurie Vaesa-Perez (Chris Gamez) against such prestigious universities,” Perez said. Feature Story Laurie Vaesa-Perez (HipHop) in these types of positions. Overall Excellence Staff “It’s a testament to the quality of education the “Winning only amplifies the truth that photography is Online, General Excellence Staff students receive thanks to the collaborative efforts of all my calling. I have my family and friends to thank for On-site Feature Photo Laurie Vaesa-Perez (Downtown Dallas) the faculty who teach in the Communication program being so supportive and letting me practice on them all and the high caliber of students who are attracted to these years but, mostly, I have God to thank for giving MAGAZINE UHCL,” Washington said. me the eye and the talent. I will take this experience First Place Winners: TIPA is the oldest and most prestigious press into my future knowing that this is my calling.” Cover Design Scott Turnbough (Spring 08-Canoes) association in America. It was established by students In addition to the competitions, workshops were Feature Photo Lona Cain (Pursuit) at Baylor in 1909 with the objectives: to advance held at the convention to educate attendees on selected Third Place Winners: journalism on college campuses, to elevate standards of topics, such as how to properly prepare your resume, Essay Jimmy Franks ( of betrayal) college publications and to unite college editors. Hispanics in the media, editor’s round table and many Poem Donna Pauley (English Teacher) “On-site contests are conducted under a deadline,” others. News Photo Joel Carter (Southbound Delay) Griesmyer said. “This makes them very difficult.” “I attended a workshop on how to get a job in Photo Essay Donna Cox (Self Redemption) television,” Simsen said. “Listening to other student’s Literary Package Richard Willis, Kourtney Pace and Perez received an honorable mention for the on-site Joel Carter (Ima, The Taxi Sage) feature photo contest. She also received numerous other reactions and questions within the workshops led me Overall Excellence Staff (Spring 2008 Issue - Canoes) awards including a certificate of Merit from Columbia to believe that I was getting the best quality education Honorable Mention Winner: University of New York for a single spot news in the room. I felt like I was more versatile than most Feature Story Joel Carter (Ima, The Taxi Sage) photograph, a national award. other students because I had a more diverse and well- “It really was unexpected since I was going up rounded education.” National Competition: The communication students Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) who attended the TIPA confer- ence in Dallas jump with glee NEWSPAPER after the awards banquet April Honorable Mention Winners: 11. From left to right: Matt News Photo Laurie Vaesa-Perez (Ike-Yacht Club) Single Subject Package Wendy Westmoreland (Texas) Griesmyer, Amy Garcia, Laurie Vaesa-Perez, Lindsay Humphrey MAGAZINE and Jenna Simsen. First Place Winners: Cover Design Scott Turnbough (Spring 08-Canoes) Second Place Winners: Cover Design Richard Willis/Kourtney Pace (Fall08) B/W Photo Donna Cox (Self Redemption) Third Place Winner: Page Design Richard Willis/Kourtney Pace (Ima) Honorable Mention Winners: Free Verse Poem Donna Pauley (English Teacher) Illustration Miguel Herrera (Somewhere Out There) Literary Single Spread Scott Turnbough (Taking Note) Overall Design Scott Turnbough (Spring 08-Canoes)

Royce Walker: Courtesy The Signal 6 April 20, 2009

Adolfo Gonzalez: The Signal Adolfo Gonzalez: The Signal

ABOVE: WWE Superstar takes WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter mocks time to sign autographs for his loyal fans. Beth “The Glamazon” Phoenix’s entrance FADED CENTER: WWE Superstars meet in pose. the ring for the THQ Superstar Challenge. segment, the World Heavyweight Champion made his way down into the ring. defeated Edge for the world Heavy- WrestleMania weight Championship and his 16th consecutive win at last year’s WrestleMania XXIV in Orlando, Fla. answer segment, but still took the time to sign autographs “Wow, I’ve got nothing against Shawn, but I think Fever Hits for fans who were gathered out back waiting for him. Undertaker is going to come out on top,” Edge said. The next WWE Superstar to come out for his question- The Undertaker has a 16-year winning streak at and-answer session was none other than , who WrestleMania. If Shawn were to win, he would be the only defeated both Edge and The for the World wrestler to ever defeat the Undertaker at WrestleMania. Houston Heavyweight Championship April 5 at WrestleMania , , , Hurricane Adolfo Gonzalez XXV. Helms, Ted Dibiase, Jr., and The Signal Staff “Toughest match for me is going to be Sunday,” Cena were some of the WWE Superstars signing autographs at said. “The reason why it’s the toughest, not only is the Big their booths. The anticipation was over and the time had finally Show the world’s largest athlete, but the third wheel in The main event of the night was the annual THQ arrived. World Wrestling Entertainment’s WrestleMania there, Edge ‘The Rated-R Superstar,’ is one of the best at Superstar Challenge where 16 WWE Superstars, Legends Axxess had finally arrived in Houston. Wrestling fans being in the right place at the right time.” and Divas, are pitted against each other to play WWE Leg- from around the world gathered for this incredible event A triple threat match, like the one Cena participated ends of WrestleMania video game. taking place at Houston’s Reliant Center. in, involves three wrestlers set against each other where The first round included WWE Hall of Famers “Mil- WrestleMania Axxess is an event held every year whoever scores the first pin wins the World Heavyweight lion Dollar Man” Ted Dibiase, “The American Dream” where fans have the opportunity to interact with their fa- Championship. The catch is that the current champion Dusty Rhodes and Sergeant Slaughter. WWE Superstars vorite superstars at autograph signings and photo sessions. does not have to get pinned in order to lose. participating were Ted Dibiase, Jr, Cody Rhodes and CM Fans can also experience unique activities including the After the question-and-answer sessions, there were Punk, along with WWE Divas Michelle McCool and Beth chance to be filmed creating their own ring entrance and two live wrestling matches. The first was R-Truth versus “The Glamazon” Phoenix. take home a DVD of the experience, call classic WWE Chavo Guerrero, Jr., where R-Truth came out on top. The second round included WWE Superstars Kofi matches, walk the Undertaker’s Graveyard, test their skills The second match was Jimmy Wang Yang against Paul Kingston, Finlay, Hornswoggle, The , Eze- at WWE trivia, compete in the SmackDown vs. Raw video Burchill with his sister Katie Lea Burchill standing in his kiel Jackson and Evan Bourne, along with WWE Divas game challenge and have a chance to win a championship corner. Yang came out the winner of this match. Brie and . belt. The second day of the event was even better than the emerged triumphant out of the 16 par- This event is held annually for four consecutive days first. More WWE superstars and divas made appearances ticipants after beating Cody Rhodes. Out of nowhere “The leading up to the pay-per-view event known as Wrestle- and there were more activities in the ring that was set up Golden Standard” came out to con- Mania. This year it ran from Thursday, April 2, to Sunday, dead center of the arena. gratulate and challenge Kofi, intending to show that Kofi’s April 5. The first WWE superstars to come win was a fluke. For the second time in eight to the ring were and Shawn Needless to say, Kingston beat Shelton using himself years, wrestling fans gathered Michaels. What was unique about as the wrestler in the game and was named THQ Superstar outside the Reliant Center, their introduction was that instead of Challenge 2009 Champion. waiting with joy and eagerness coming out separately with their own For a true wrestling fan, nothing could top meeting for the doors to open. Enthusi- music, they decided to come out as and watching your favorite WWE Superstars up close and astic fans waited in a long line Degeneration-X, one of the greatest personal. This is a once in a lifetime experience. discussing everything and any- wrestling stables of all time. What better way to top off an amazing weekend than thing about wrestling. As soon After Triple H and Michaels com- the event which made WrestleMania Axxess possible? as the doors opened, many fans pleted their short Houston, the Reliant Stadium and let out the famous Rick Flair 72,744 fans from around the world “WOOOO!” chant while walk- welcomed WWE’s 25th Anniversary ing through the doors. of WrestleMania with open arms, Some of the WWE Su- cameras and lots of fan-made signs perstars on hand signing to hold up during the show. autographs the first day were Goldust, Christian, Shelton Benjamin, , The Adolfo Gonzalez: The Signal Great Khali, , Jesse and Festus, Cryme Tyme and WWE WWE Divas Eve Torres and Hall of Famers Gerald Brisco Candice Michelle on their way to and . WWE Divas pose for pictures with the fans. Maryse and Layla were also signing autographs while ECW Interim General Manager and Diva Tiffany took pictures with fans throughout the evening. The show was hosted by WWE Hall of Famer “The Mouth of the South” Jimmy Hart. The first WWE superstar to come out for the question- and-answer session was Rey Mysterio, who defeated John “Bradshaw” Layfield for the Intercontinental Champion- ship April 5 at WrestleMania XXV . A member of the staff passed out note cards to the fans so they could write their questions for Mysterio. “The best match I’ve ever had,” Mysterio said “was without a doubt, ’97, Halloween Havoc, versus Rey Mysterio, Las Vegas, Nevada.” Adolfo Gonzalez: The Signal Mysterio was referring to a pay-per-view match he had Adolfo Gonzalez: The Signal with the late Eddie Guerrero, who passed away in Novem- WWE Superstar Paul ber of 2005. Burchill poses for a picture Mysterio left when he was done with his question-and- WWE Superstar R-Truth pounding away on Chavo Guerrero, Jr. after his match with Jimmy during their live match at WrestleMania Axxess. Wang Yang. April 20, 2009 7 The Signal

Hook it up Corpus Christi Style

Jenna Simsen The Signal Staff

With a population of approximately Jenna Simsen The Signal 300,000, Corpus Christi has been home to the ’ double A affiliate, the BELOW LEFT: Astros catcher Humberto Hooks, since 2005. Quintero stands in the Astros bullpen and Originally from Memphis, the fran- autographs baseballs for the fans through the chise was founded in 1968 and was the af- fence. BELOW CENTER: Large crowds of filiate for the . Since then, people gather outside of the Astros’ warm- the franchise moved from Tennessee as the up area hoping to snap a photo or get their Memphis Blues, to Texas as the Victoria souvenirs autographed. BELOW RIGHT: Toros, to Mississippi as the . A mix of Astros’ and Hooks’ fans fill nearly The team was bought out by Hall of Famer every open seat in Whataburger Field at the Nolan Ryan in 1998 and moved from Exhibition game April 2. A record-breaking Jackson, Miss., to Round Rock, Texas, to crowd of 9,118 attended. become the Round Rock Express. There, well-known profes- sional players Roy Oswalt and Morgan Ensberg coached the team. After just one season in Round Rock, they worked their way to the title. In 2004, Ryan announced his intention to move the club to the Gulf Coast. In 2005, the club was renamed the Hooks and moved to Corpus Christi. Whataburger Field was built that since 2005, the same year and became the official stadium Hooks have of the Hooks. advanced 23 total Over the past four years, the Hooks players to the ocean and sky of the have employed many players who have major leagues. gulf. Rusty Hook and since advanced to Major League Baseball The team has also seen many famous Sammy Seagull are the offi- the community through their “Hooks teams. Current MLB players who were Astros grace the greens of Whataburger cial mascots for the Hooks and can be seen Help” campaign. They plan to better the once Hooks players include: Hunter Pence Field. Jeff Bagwell, Wandy Rodriguez, at any home or away game. community by helping to renovate baseball of the Houston Astros, Charlton Jimerson Humberto Quintero and Brandon The 2009 season began in April at fields in poor condition with their “Field of the Seattle Mariners, Hector Gimenez Backe have all appeared in Whataburger Field where the Hooks of Dreams” campaign. The team also hosts of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Jason Hooks jerseys while play- played an exhibition game against their several special event fundraisers with in- Hirsh of the Colorado Rockies. ing with the team MLB affiliates, the Houston Astros. The tentions to honor talented local players as In 2006, the Hooks won their as they recovered game drew a crowd of more than 9,000 well as raising money for the Hooks Help first Texas League Champion- from injuries. fans, shattering a record previously held in campaign. ship in a win over the Witchita The team’s a game against the “You’ve got to give something back,” Wranglers, marking the 10th colors are light with special guest Roger Clemens pitching Schrom said. “It’s something we believe championship win in blue and dark for the Hooks. in; it’s just part of our fabric.” franchise history. blue, which are Residents of Corpus Christi and the The regular season will run through In the four sea- said to repre- greater Gulf Coast area attended the game September. For more information on the sons sent the to see the Astros play in Whataburger Hooks, visit www.cchooks.com. endless Field. In an outcome that may have been surprising, the Hooks beat their ‘big brother’ affiliates with a final score of 6-5. “They’re [the Astros] a great organization to work with,” said Ken Schrom, Hooks president. “They’re quality guys, and that means some- thing … we’ve got a great relation- ship.” From the sounds of the crowd, it seemed as if most fans were elated to see the Hooks win in their hometown. However, several fans were seen in a mixed attire of light blue Hooks jerseys and brick red Astros caps, cheering for both sides. “I was excited to see the Astros, but my heart was torn,” said Katherine Garrett, Houston native and biology major at Texas A&M University- Jenna Simsen The Signal Jenna Simsen: The Signal Corpus Christi. “I cheered every time Hooks catcher Brian Esposito warms up in the someone scored.” A look at the scoreboard at Whataburger Field, Hooks’ bullpen during the game on April 2. The Hooks have a goal to impact home of the Hooks. The Signal 8 April 20, 2009 ** Student Life **

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For more information go to www.uhcl.edu/records April 20, 2009 9 The Signal CAMPUS CALENDAR Showcase: Reaching New Heights April 20 Britney Godfrey experience appropriate to teach 2009 Physics Seminar Series, The Signal Staff Fault Tolerant Computing and has “Plasma Physics Applications for recently retired from Charles Stark Aerospace Technology” uch like the student body, Draper Laboratory (formally MIT 7 p.m., Bayou 1211 the faculty of University Instrumentation Laboratory) at NASA/ of Houston-ClearM Lake represents JSC and is now consulting with NASA April 22-23 its own body of diverse people from on the space shuttle,” said Jim Helm, Career Week Presentation: mixed backgrounds. These professors Engineering Division Chair. “The Successful Interviewing, offer vast amounts of information space shuttle onboard computers are time TBA, Bayou Atrium II to their students pertaining to their required to be fault tolerant. Basically curriculum while offering real-life this means that if an instruction fails, Ongoing through experiences. Despite the appreciation the onboard computer logs the failure April 24 of the university’s full-time faculty, and keeps running.” Early College Campus Visit Week The Signal would like to spotlight Goodwin has no shortage of “real those educators who teach in addition world” experience to bring to the April 23 to holding down full-time jobs – the classroom. Goodwin says he would Last Day to Drop/Withdraw adjunct professors. The Signal will be like to think his classes are interesting 8-week II Classes profiling an adjunct professor from to UHCL students because he tries to each school to be acknowledged for bring his “outside world” experience April 25 their dedication to education as well to the classroom while remembering Film Screening ‘The Wrestler,’ as the real-world experiences they his own personal challenges as a 7 p.m., SSCB Lecture Hall bring to the university. This is part student. four of a four-part series. “Since my ‘day’ job was with Prep Course for the Gifted From adventurous mountain Draper Laboratory at NASA (retired Supplemental Certification, 8:30 climbing, to working at NASA, to in 2003), I’ve been involved in both a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Arbor A176 gardening with his wife, adjunct Ken the industry and academic sides in Courtesy my dealings with the university,” April 27 Goodwin brings adventure, knowledge Goodwin said. Ken Goodwin, on a previous trip to Nepal, stands at the peak of Kala 2009 Physics Seminar Series, and experience to his students. Goodwin started his education Goodwin is currently a member Patar in the Mt. Everest Region. “The 200 kW VASIMR Experi- of the Computer Systems Engineering mental Engineer (VX-200): Design by receiving a Bachelor of Science Industrial Advisory Board and to buy amateur radio equipment,” Goodwin is part of the IMG Challenges and Recent Results,” in Electrical Engineering from prior to that was a member of the Goodwin said. trekking group that will attempt to 7 p.m., Bayou 1211 Tufts University. He then went on to receive a Master of Science Industrial Advisory Group of the Goodwin also helps his wife, climb Lobuje, the nearest village to Research Institute for Computing Camille, with her hobbies. the trekking peak, then to Island Peak April 30 in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University in Boston, and Information Systems and “I also attempt to assist my before heading back to Lukla for the Alumni Award Nomination the Computer Science Program Deadline and did postgraduate work in electrical wife Camille with her interests aircraft ride back to Kathmandu. engineering, computer science and Advisory Board. He has also been in gardening,” Goodwin said. “I “I will trek to the Everest base business from the University of associated with the university through usually provide the manpower for camp and then on the way back to Ongoing through a membership in the Institute of June 5 Houston and Massachusetts Institute her garden projects so even though it Kathmandu, attempt to climb two Electrical and Electronics Engineers.” Summer 2009 Open Registration of Technology. isn’t an engineering type of activity, trekking peaks that are both above Goodwin has been an adjunct in When Goodwin is not teaching, I must enjoy it. I did instrument her 20,000 feet,” Goodwin said. one can probably find him on any Ongoing the UH system since 1977 starting gardens with wireless moisture and “He is fantastic,” said Jeanne number of adventures. through at the main campus then moving to temperature sensors so the sprinkler Leslie, suite secretary for SCE. “He is One of Goodwin’s many hobbies August 21 UHCL in 1981. Goodwin credits the system only provides the necessary interesting to students because of his is amateur radio. Fall 2009 Open move to University of Houston Clear water during the year.” unique personality, his work with the “I’ve been a ‘ham’ since I was 15 Registration Lake to former science and computer Currently, Goodwin is on a 26-day space center and his many mountain engineer Dean Charles McKay. years old and I think the only reason adventure in Nepal. He is on his fourth climbing adventures.” “Mr. Goodwin has more I went to college was so that I could trip with International Mountain than twenty years of specialized have a job that would pay me enough Guides to the Himalayas. The Signal 10 April 20, 2009 Graduation: continued from page 1 Staff Holds Town Hall Meeting the arena would still exceed multiple graduation Nancy Nguyen expansion, Staple the capacity limit by 2600 ceremonies and restricting The Signal Staff reminded the people. the number of guests per audience that it Nevertheless, UHCL has graduate by providing a At the joint meeting of the had been shelved a solution to the problem. limited number of tickets Professional Administration Staff until 2011, but Next month’s graduation to each graduating senior. Association and Support Staff not stopped ceremony will be streamed The committee is asking Association held April 9, the groups permanently. live on the Internet. So, the SGA to submit their discussed the current and future “The four-year people unable to attend preferences to UHCL endeavors of the university. These expansion could the ceremony due to the President William Staples. meetings are held once a year and be reality in fall of voluntary restriction, or Staples will make the final are open to all staff, faculty and 2012,” said Richard because their plans did not decision. students of University of Houston- Adams, director of allow for travel to Houston A decision is expected Clear Lake. operations. or for whatever reason, soon, since the application The topics ranged from budgets Staples spoke they still have the option to deadline for UHCL Fall and funding to job security and about this being Nancy Nguyen: The Signal view the ceremony via the 2009 graduation is in June. campus safety, as well as ongoing important to the World Wide Web. Bendeck Additional information developments in student services. university’s growth Carl Stockton, senior vice president for academic says testing is in progress on the December 2009 One of the topics that many and increasing its affairs and provost, Michelle Dotter, vice president to ensure the feed works commencement will be attendees were concerned about was status in the Clear for administration and finance and President William properly for the May 16 mailed to students in the how the economy has affected the Lake community. Staples spoke at the annual town hall meeting. event. coming weeks. school and its funding. “Another issue Although the issue has Luckily, spring 2009 In this tough economy, many that I was pleased been somewhat resolved for graduates will not have employees are concerned about pay to see included was they will receive their associate’s next month’s graduation, to face those decisions. cuts and losing their jobs. President the fact the rumors about layoffs are degree.” overcrowding remains an Instead, students will William Staples assured those in not true,” Adams said. “I will retire On another note, Michelle even bigger issue for the be asked to voluntarily attendance that the university would from UHCL.” Dotter, vice president for December graduation, restrict their guests to five. not be cutting jobs. Another concern was for the administration and finance, plans which includes 350 summer Information regarding the “Our number one priority is safety of employees and students. to work with the school’s Risk students and 1,400 fall voluntary restriction will compensation,” Staples said. “Not There has been an increase in crime Management Department on students. be mailed along with other that we don’t value other priorities.” in the area including events at different environmental projects Still, Bendeck says graduation material later Staples talked about how the UHCL. such as planting trees and flowers on Reliant Arena is the best this month. Texas Legislature could change “If you think you see something the campus. She also spoke about location to hold the UHCL In the meantime, guests state laws, possibly affecting future suspicious, call the police leadership programs and culture commencement ceremony. planning to attend the May funding for the school. department,” Staples said. “We changes that will be taking place on In the past, UHCL used the commencement should “We do not know what is going are safer than most places in this the UHCL campus. University of Houston’s arrive early. The doors of to happen,” Staples said. “This is region, but due to events that have “In helping with the environment Hofheiz Pavilion and the arena will open at 5 p.m. important for two reasons, at present happened, I ask all of you not to our campus is making moves Moody Gardens, but “The police department our funding comes from two sources. become complacent.” towards a paperless campus,” Dotter those venues are now too and fire marshal’s office It comes from formula funding from Carl Stockton, senior vice said. small. Other venues in the will be more proactive the state based on credit hours and president for academic affairs and She informed employees about area such as the Toyota in dispersing dangerous from disciplines, such as education, provost, spoke about changes in the new training programs currently on Center, Minute Maid Park crowding situations and business, and science, by degree spring that will introduce reverse paperwork that is being converted and Reliant Stadium are keeping people from saving levels, like bachelors and masters.” articulation. to computers. Dotter reassured unavailable due to conflicts banks of seats.” Willingham Staples spoke of how stimulus “To remind you what reverse employees not to worry, the change with sporting events. said. “Once the arena money from the government will articulation means is basically when would be as painless as possible. A committee of reaches its capacity, the help stabilize concerns for now; a students comes to our university “Over all I think the meeting faculty, staff and Student entry doors will be closed.” however, he also noted that this before completing their associate’s went very well,” said Fran Davis, Government Association UHCL Spring 2009 is a one time endowment. He also degree,” Stockton said. “Let’s say president of the support staff members is currently Graduation will be held at mentioned how steadying sales they have six to ten hours left to association. “I may be sounding evaluating the problem. Reliant Arena, One Reliant taxes will help the overall economy, complete that degree and they come bias, but I am a big fan of Dr. Instead of just appealing to Park, 8400 Kirby Dr., at 7 therefore, benefiting the university to the university and take the hours. Staples because he honestly shows students to keep the guest p.m., on May 16. Parking and other businesses. Those hours can then be articulated his concern for everyone here at the list to five, two solutions is $8. In speaking about downward back to the community college and university.” being reviewed are hosting

Student Success: continued from page 1 who participated in an academic help the students be the best that support referral program. The they can be.” pilot suggested that students Although it was not at the found the program to be truly top of the university’s priority beneficial to their academic list, Anthony Jenkins, dean of standing with the university. students, has great intentions for More than 50 percent chose to the center and high hopes that remain in the program upon it will become of the upmost completion of the pilot program. importance to the university. The Student Success Center “If UHCL is ready to be would assist students of all age considered one of the major groups and college education universities in this area, we have levels with several different to have the components of a needs. It would include, but major university,” Jenkins said. not be limited to: students who “We should be doing everything have never attended higher-level to make sure students have in education, students with gaps place all of the mechanisms to be in their education, and students successful.” who have never attended the Jenkins summarized that a university. The center will also center dedicated to the success Lindsey Lashway: The Signal implement emphasis on first- of students is necessary if the year experience programs and university wants to be considered transition programs for students one of the major universities in Trung Huynh, a nursing major at –Central, tutors Charles Cole, a general studies major, new to the university. the area. He believes the center with algebra in San Jacinto College’s Student Success Center. “I see the need for tutoring at UHCL outside Aside from the tutoring will contribute to the overall of writing and mathmatics, “ said Tanya Stanley, learning lab supervisor at SJC’s Student Success Center and already in place, the center will improvement of the citizenry of literature graduate student at UHCL. also offer assistance for more the university. will involve the idea being tutoring services and the academic “Students asked for it, specific courses that the general If created, the center will be reviewed by the planning and referral support programs in hopes students wanted it, students love tutorials do not currently cover. housed on the third floor of the budgeting committee, which will of building on these programs it,” Jenkins said. “This needs to be Tutorials for particular courses Student Services Building, where meet in June. with additional funding as it is in place to make sure our students would include one-on-one help the tutoring center currently Biggers explained that if the provided. The center would also have the type of support that they with difficult classes such as resides. He noted that the area funding was provided for the hope to grow in strength and size not only deserve, but that they managerial accounting. would expand and be designated center, it could be established with the university as it enters are paying for, and that every “Everyone wants to do the as the official location for the for the fall semester. The center the opening stages of downward institution in the surrounding area best that he or she possibly can,” Student Success Center. would focus on the current expansion. has.” Biggers said. “That’s our goal, to The next step in the proposal April 20, 2009 11 The Signal

Downtown Houston’s legendary Rice Hotel houses more than history

Lucia Y. Rodriguez then sold The Signal Staff the building to Texas politician Lucia Y. Rodriguez: The Signal and businessman Jesse H. The original sign for the Rice Hotel advertised its On the eve of Nov. 21, 1963, Jones. The building was excellent cuisine. President John F. Kennedy had dinner at demolished and a new 17-story The Rice Hotel. The next day Kennedy hotel was built. It opened in Lucia Y. Rodriguez: The Signal would be assassinated while riding in 1913 boasting the first air- many weddings and social functions. a car as it passed a grassy knoll near conditioned public room in Houston. “The Crystal Ballroom maintains At the Post Rice Lofts, residents can enjoy the Dealey Plaza in Dallas. The Rice Hotel was the site of a very active social calendar and is a convenience of the METRO rail. The legendary Rice Hotel in Houston many public events and notable very popular social activity venue,” now the site of The Post Rice Lofts guests including the 1928 Democratic Duarte said. and is home to some Houstonians. This Convention. In 1928, an Anti-Prohibition Residents of the lofts now historic landmark is located downtown faction called The AntiDry Movement socialize on the once famed “Rice on 909 Texas Ave. and is listed in the made its headquarters at the Rice Hotel. Roof,” where past hotel patrons National Register of Historical Places. The hotel’s underground Rice danced to live performances from the “The historical component has huge cafeteria was famous for its delectable Tom Dorsey Big Band. The modern- appeal to potential leassees,” said Monica Rice Pudding. The Flag Room was day conveniences located near the Duarte, property manager. known for fine dinning and was Rice Hotel include Azuma, Sambuca, The Capitol of the Republic of Texas frequented by powerbrokers and oilmen. Chipotle restaurants and Sunset Body from 1837 to 1842, which housed the Presently the Flag Room and Works beauty spa. Texas Congress from 1837 to 1839, was cafeteria are used as storage facilities. “I work downtown and love located on this ground site. The basement pool that was concreted downtown,” said Travis Baker, a The original building was razed in for many years has been refurbished. Rice Lofts resident. “The Rice Lofts 1881 and the five-story Capitol Hotel Adjacent to the pool is a workout area are close to work and have so many was built. The building was purchased in with state-of-the-art fitness equipment. amenities available and the historical Lucia Y. Rodriguez: The Signal 1883 by the founder of Rice University, The still-functioning, elegant Crystal value is just incredible.” William M. Rice, and it was renamed the Ballroom, with its high ceiling, murals, The Post Rice Lofts’ modern-day sign refer- Rice Hotel. and classic chandeliers, is still the site of ences the building’s past incarnation as the Rice Hotel. $50,000 PAID ON YOUR COLLEGE LOANS TEXAS

www.1-800-GO-GUARD.com The Signal 12 April 20, 2009

Left: Journalist Christi Minter enjoys King penguin Watson.

Christi Minter silversides (Menidia menidia), herring (Clu- The Signal Staff pea harengus harengus) and the occasional mackerel (Scomber japonicus) await for The pitter-patter of little feet and shrill- mealtime. ing screams from the distance made me think I left the feeding to the experts and as of children. At four feet tall, clothed with a journalist, I got special permission to go tuxedo-like feathers and equipped with large further behind the scenes. I slipped on some beaks, I was not experiencing children. I just rubber boots and stepped through the gate to had a penguin encounter. enter the land of penguins. To the left, people Going to see the penguins located in the stood watching the penguins through glass. I Photos by Christi Minter: Aquarium Pyramid South Atlantic Exhibit stood engulfed by walking tuxedos. The Signal at Moody Gardens is one of the most unique In awe of the squawking birds in my adventures I have ever experienced. Although presence, I quickly learned they go by differ- Top Right: Falyn Woung pets the temperature is a chilling 45 degrees and ent names and portray distinct personalities. Watson as biologist T’Noya currently dropping for their winter, the pen- Some were very excited to see me and some Thompson holds him during the Private Penguin Encounter. guins were warm and friendly. were skeptical of me inside their territory. Marine biologist and trainer In the penguin habitat, water submerges Middle: Watson makes a piece T’Noya Thompson a dry area giving the penguins the luxury to of art for the audience. was my tour swim, dive or just relax. Among this pen- guide around the guin group were five out of 18 species found Bottom: Penguins feast, play premises to witness around the world including: King, Chinstrap and swim within the exhibit. the penguins and their (because of the line under their chin), Gentoo, caretakers. Rock Hopper and Macaroni. “I couldn’t imag- I then joined a family of four in another ine doing anything room to experience the real penguin encoun- else,” Thompson ter. The door opened and in entered Watson, said. “Ever since a King penguin. Thompson started off by I was young, I explaining about the exhibit and sharing her always wanted to knowledge about the penguins. As Watson work with marine got comfortable with everyone, Thompson animals.” prepared him for the art show. With water- With 104 based paint on his feet, Watson performed his penguins, a lot is walk of art on a canvas, which was later given involved in their to a guest. feeding and care; “The penguins were my favorite part,” the more helping said Christi Woung of Lakewood, Colo., who hands, the better. visited Moody Gardens, while on vacation As two volunteers with her family. washed down the From seeing the penguins play with kitchen area, I was bubbles to mealtime craziness; the penguins enlightened on food were extraordinary to watch. The exhibit is preparation. heart-warming, full of laughs and educational. Just like any other Visitors can choose from a 45-minute kitchen, cleanup is neces- Public Penguin Encounter Program for $40 sary to make sure the area each or a Private Penguin Encounter Program stays sanitary. for $300 per group of up to four people. For In a nearby freezer, iced more information, call 800-582-4673 or visit buckets of apelin moodygardens.org. (Mallotus villosus),