Student Run Since Volume One

Friday December 11, 2020 | Vol. 65, Iss. 8

In This Issue...... By Sheryl Sellers Gator Life...... 2 UHD student publishes self-help book UHD students con- began to wonder what He watched webi- tion of himself. News...... 6 tinue to rise to new levels, other types of writing were nars of people like Mark Fitzgerald started the Arts and Entertainment...... 9 and that is exactly what available. He felt he had Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, outline of his book in 2019 Opinions...... 11 UHD senior, Jesse Fitzger- hit rock bottom but that Bill Gates, Warren Buf- and finished the initial ald Rodriguez Sr. accom- there must be other oppor- fett and Sam Walton. He draft this past October. plished in publishing his tunities to write. found that they all set Via online searches, he first book, “Develop a In 2016, Rodriguez goals, managed their time, located editors and illus- Genius Mindset: Unleash began studying techni- had mentors and coaches trators for the book cover your Full Potential and cal communications, the and continued to study to and the graphics between Achieve Unimaginable type of behind the scenes benefit themselves. each chapter. He also held Success.” Rodriguez is writing that includes doc- He also studied auditions for an audible a projected spring 2021 uments, memos, execu- self-help authors, such as version of the book which graduate majoring in Tech- tive summaries, scientific John Maxwell and Oprah should be out by Dec. 25. nical Communications writing, and presentations Winfrey, whose books Continued on Gator Life, Page 2 Business Spotlight: with a minor in English. incorporating visuals and he found influential. He 7th Heaven His passion for writing text. further found that they see Gator Life, Page 5 ignited in 2013 while In order to improve had the same successful completing his Associate his writing and communi- traits as the others he re- degree at Lone Star Col- cation and to create more searched. lege. value for himself, he start- As he began to uti- After Rodriguez ed researching success- lize those same principles, learned the fundamen- ful women and men. He Fitzgerald realized that tals in creative writing wanted to know if there these were principles that and wrote a few short yet was something they had in others could use also. The Cover of self-help book by UHD TCOM major, unpublished stories, he common. book came out of a reflec- Jesse Fitzgerald Rodriguez Sr. Image courtesy Art Car Museum of Jesse Rodriguez. features local artists Director of Emergency Management see A&E, Page 10 discusses UHD COVID-19 regulations By Sheryl Sellers In Volume 65 Issue follows. There was not ed since March 2020. All there were only a few 2 The Dateline published an opportunity to have a of these programs are as- pens, none sanitized, and an article evaluating direct dialogue, so a back- sessed on an ongoing basis not one for each person COVID-19 safety proce- and-forth discussion on the for effectiveness and are to keep, and staff had dures and regulations on topic is lacking. revised as needed to com- to be asked that the pen campus. Noticing viola- Our initial ques- ply with new CDC and available be sanitized tions and inconsistencies tions inquired if the State of Texas guidance. It prior to its use. Op-Ed: Abolish the of some precautions put department was happy is an ongoing process that “We noted the Electoral College in place, The Dateline with the steps initially will continue through the same issues and have see Opinions, Page 13 requested an interview put in place and if/how duration of the pandemic.” since changed the check-in with Ms. Cynthia Var- were they monitored. One of the pro- procedure at the designat- gas, Director, Emergency “UHD has imple- cedures described at ed entrances. In October Management and Fire mented several different the September Faculty the check-in process was Safety. She had announced procedures and programs Senate meeting, was that digitized and plexiglass the procedures during the to improve campus safe- pens would be put at shields were added to Sept. 1 Faculty Senate ty and reduce the risk of each entrance on the sign protect the workers that Meeting. transmission of infec- in tables and there would are staffing the desk and TxDOT should However, Director tious diseases on campus. be one for each person the person checking in to of Communications, Mike Below are some of the signing in to keep. How- enhance safety.” implement Vision C Emery, allowed only for processes and programs ever, the next day Date- Continued on Gator Life, Page 3 see Opinions, Page 15 an email interview, so that that have been implement- line staff noticed that The University of Houston-Downtown 2 Gator Life Friday December 11, 2020

will be available in librar- Student publishes ies and bookstores. His advice to Continued from future authors is, “Don’t front page self-help book give up on your dreams and aspirations and goals. Rodriguez wants to book, Rodriguez says it Anything is possible with THE DATELINE expand his fiction writing, is for anyone who thinks hard work, dedication and University of Houston-Downtown and he has an idea for a they have hit rock bottom, sacrifice. Do what’s diffi- children’s book series. to let others know it is pos- 1 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002 cult now, you can get your Along with writing cours- sible to get better at your leisure back later. Where Office: S-260 Phone: 713.221.8275 es, he has 15 course credits craft. there is difficulty, there in classes on how to teach “It’s a process,” [email protected] is opportunity and where children to read and write. said Rodriguez. “It’s not there is opportunity, there Fall 2020 Staff He has studied how to something you learn one is difficulty.” write not only for small month to the next, but if Editor...... Jaida Doll children but also for older you are really interested Assistant Editor...... Indira Zaldivar adults to determine the and serious about taking Social Media Manager...... Varah Thornton reading habits of all age your fiction, non-fiction Business Manager...... Sheryl Sellers groups. or business writing to the News Section Editor...... Aansa Usmani Following gradu- next level, study your Gator Life Section Editor...... Keven Balderas ation, Rodriguez hopes to craft, study everything A&E Section Editor...... Varah Thornton find a career in writing, there is to know. We are Opinions Section Editor...... Briana Garcia maybe within the universi- not going to reinvent the Faculty Advisor...... Joe Sample, Ph.D. ty system or in publication. wheel.” In time, he wants to start Currently his book his own publishing compa- can be found on Amazon. The Dateline is the official student newspaper of UHD TCOM student, Jesse Fitzgerald Rodri- the University of Houston-Downtown. Since its first ny. He purchased an ISBN guez Sr., publishes his first book. Image issue in 1982, The Dateline is proud to be “Student Describing his number, so eventually it courtesy of Jesse Rodriguez. Run since Volume One.” We strive to meet the needs of a growing university as well as the growing metro- program offered at UHD politan city that surrounds us. UHD plans for new will focus on community engagement here in Hous- Submission Policy ton, which will appeal to Master’s program all UHD Communication The Dateline staff consists of students from the By Jeremy Barrientos University of Houston-Downtown who complete all UHD recently re- Sciences and Technology Studies students hoping tasks required to produce the newspaper, which serves ported a record enrollment or an M.S. in Criminal to grow and enrich their all UHD campuses. The opinions and commentaries of 15,251 undergraduate Justice at the College of academic careers. Before a new mas- expressed within reflect the views of the contributing and graduate students for Public Service as well as ter program is approved by writers. No opinions expressed in The Dateline reflect the fall 2020 semester, a an M.A. in Teaching. the UHS Board of Regents, the viewpoints of the University of Houston-Down- 4% increase over the last As the second many steps that need to be town, its administration, or students. year. As the university largest university in Hous- taken. A proposal must be The Dateline reserves the right to edit or modify continues to grow, many ton in terms of student submitted that outlines the submissions for the sake of clarity, content, grammar, students are eager to con- enrollment, UHD faculty recommendation report to or space limitations. All submissions become property tinue their education and are advocating for more ensure that all criteria for of The Dateline and may not be returned. attend graduate school at programs and curriculum the new degree program All paid writers must be currently enrolled stu- UHD, but the choices are based on the demand of its are met. Typical criteria dents at the University of Houston-Downtown. limited. UHD currently students. The Communi- are based on the need for Press releases, story ideas, news tips and sugges- offers nine graduate degree cation Studies faculty are such a degree, student tions are always welcomed. We encourage all students programs. hoping to launch a new success, employment to contribute. The Marilyn Da- Master of Arts in Strategic rate after graduating, and Any student interested in joining The Dateline vies College of Business Communication by Fall faculty resources to name staff may request more detailed information sending offers a Master of Business 2022. The UH campus a few. There are 24 mas- an email to the editors at editordatelinedowntown@ Administration, a Master currently offers a Strategic ter’s degrees in communi- gmail.com. of Professional Accoun- Communication B.A. de- cation programs in Texas tancy, and a Master of gree, at the Jack J. Valenti with only three offering a Security Management. The School of Communica- Master’s in Strategic Com- College of Humanities and tion, which provides basic Follow us on Social Media! munication. If approved, Social Sciences offers an knowledge, skills and eth- the UHD will increase M.S. in Technical Com- ical considerations to pre- the growth of its student munication, an M.A. in pare students for entry into body by appealing to and Non-Profit Management, the fields of advertising, recruiting prospective and an M.A. in Rhetoric integrated communication, graduate students in Texas and Composition. Students organizational/corporate and around the country. @the_dateline can pursue an M.S. in Data communication and pub- Analytics at the College of lic relations. The master The University of Houston-Downtown Friday December 11, 2020 Gator Life 3 Director discusses COVID-19 regulations Continued from front page Though need for procedural the UHD COVID-19 enhancements lated questions by is supervising the there were masks in changes and monitor website is a resource throughout campuses, phone – 713-221- person or the space vending machines, the effectiveness of for the campus com- including availabili- 8137. where the infraction these machines were our strategies. The munity.” ty of hand sanitizer, “Students, occurred or the near- several floors above Taskforce is made up What proce- cleaning products, faculty and staff must est department office. the check-in areas, of 18 members from dures take place dai- and assessing HVAC report COVID-19 di- The department head which was not help- various Departments ly to ensure student, systems. agnosis and possible or building leadership ful or efficient. and Colleges and staff and faculty “A range of exposure. In addition, will be in a position “The vending includes a representa- safety among the academic options individuals who have to ascertain whether machines are loaded tive from the Student COVID-19 pandem- available to provide been quarantined the person has an by a third-party ven- Government Associ- ic? for multi-modality of must request per- exemption and, if not, dor and are on a reg- ation. If anyone on “The follow- instruction. mission to return to politely direct the ular restocking cycle. campus has questions ing safety protocols “Mandatory campus. person to wear a face In addition, dispos- or needs to report have been implement- training on safety “As a remind- covering or vacate the able masks are avail- procedures not being ed at UHD to ensure a procedures for all er there are individual public area. able at the designated followed or people safe return to campus: faculty, staff, students procedures that those “For addition- entrances, and masks not adhering to the “Online and visitors. coming to campus al information, please and hand sanitizer can appropriate protocol, COVID-19 training “Faculty, staff, should also take on a visit the Face Cover- also be purchased in they should email module and certifi- and students required daily basis.” ings FAQ’s.” the bookstore. We Coronavirus@uhd. cation required of to perform daily self- It has been The Dateline encourage all mem- edu “ students, faculty and health assessment to anticipated that allowed Ms. Vargas bers of the UHD How does the staff before return to screen for symptoms UHD would move the opportunity to add community to have department confirm campus. before coming to to Stage 3 for the her own information a mask upon arrival that procedures “Public campus; visitors and spring semester. to those reading The and even a back-up in are being followed, awareness campaign, vendors required to What procedures Dateline. case they need it. including nutritious COVID-19 website, perform self-health will be implemented, “One of the “Additional food items in the and signage through- assessment to screen and how would stu- most important ways information regard- vending machines? out campuses to for symptoms before dents, faculty, and of preventing out- ing masks and face “UHD has provide education and coming to campus. staff become aware breaks and commu- coverings on campus various departments communicate messag- “Protocols of the guidelines? nity transmission on can be found in these that monitor daily op- ing. in place for stu- “The same campus is through FAQs [on the UHD erations related to the “Face cov- dents, faculty, and procedures that we quarantine and iso- website: ‘FAQ About list here that includes erings while on staff for reporting of have now will con- lation practices for Covid-19 > Face Facilities Manage- campuses unless the COVID-19 symp- tinue to be in place. persons that have Coverings’].” ment, Emergency individual has an toms, positive case or Any new changes symptoms, have a di- Upon visits to Management, and approved accommo- diagnosis, or potential will be introduced agnosis, or have been the university, Date- University Business dation. exposure including: via formal communi- exposed to someone line staff noticed Services. “Physical dis- self-quarantine if ex- cation to the campus with COVID-19. It is many procedures “If anyone tancing implemented posed, self-isolation community. Email extremely important were not followed, sees something they – reduced capacity in upon positive case is a primary tool for that UHD Community and discussed this in need to report or a classrooms, campus or diagnosis, contact reaching faculty, staff members report those the Sept. 18 issue of short supply of masks spaces, auxiliaries, tracing to identify ex- and students. Addi- conditions to the Con- The Dateline. Was or hand sanitizer in rearranging of class- posed UHS communi- tionally, students re- tact Tracing Team. there follow-up on the vending machines room seating and ty members, handling ceive a weekly news Forms to report [can the procedures that or the bookstore, workspaces; assess of return to campuses digest, Gator Update. be found on the UHD were not followed? please email Corona- installation of bar- following self-quar- Faculty and staff website]. “Unfortunate- [email protected]” riers; flexible work antine/self-isolation, receive UHD News “Continue to ly, I have not seen Are employ- schedules; online and establishment of twice a week.” follow CDC guidance the article... I would ees aware of the im- learning options; and a COVID-19 Re- The Dateline for wearing a mask be happy to address portance of follow- encouragement of sponse Coordinator noted that some and staying home these issues when ing the guidelines? virtual meetings. as point of contact for persons were not when you are sick I have additional “UHD com- “Enhanced handling of positive wearing masks when or exposed. Students details. I’d also like municates to the UHD cleaning protocols case/exposure issues. we went to their should feel free to re- to maintain an open community by way employed throughout “If you are a offices. port anything related channel of communi- of UHD News, Email campuses, including student who is ex- “Everyone is required to COVID-19 to coro- cation with Dateline and virtual townhalls daily cleaning of periencing anxiety to wear a mask on [email protected]” and its readers, so we that are open to facul- instructional spac- or stress because of campus. If you are The Dateline can continue to share ty, staff, and students. es and high-touch COVID-19, please around someone thanks Ms. Vargas for information and en- For a digest of all points, and cleaning consider contacting who is not wearing her responses to our hance campus safety. official University response protocol for Counseling Services a face mask, politely request, although a “UHD COVID-19 relat- disinfection of areas by phone or video at step away from that direct communication has formed the ed communication, impacted by positive 713-500-3852. Stu- person. Then please may have allowed op- COVID-19 Task- please visit the web- COVID-19 cases. dent Health Services contact the faculty portunity for further force to address the site. As a reminder, “Hygiene will answer health-re- or staff member who discussion. The University of Houston-Downtown 4 Gator Life Friday December 11, 2020 Writing Tutoring from the W R C

Writing & Reading Center Fall Semester 2020

Our Hours Monday- Thursday 9-7 p.m. (online only) Friday-Saturday 9-3 p.m. (online only)

Schedule an appointment at uhd.edu/wrc

Interested in-person tutoring? Email us at [email protected]. Faculty Spotlight success of both of Professor Ramirez’s Lori Ramirez, M.B.A. jobs - running fitness By Anthony Raul Ramirez Professor Student Life Center, businesses: Inspire male students in mid- businesses and teach- It is a ben- Ramirez graduated and even taught some Fitness Training dle and high school. ing - are measured in eficial for students from UHD in 2013 aerobics classes her- Center and Red Ride The organization’s terms of how well she to see how alumni and received a Bach- self. Cycling Studio. She co-founders consist of can help others. succeed after grad- elor’s Degree in fine Professor used her enjoyment eight female minori- Whether it be uation. Professor arts with a concen- Ramirez has served of physical fitness to ties who have a posi- instructing someone Lori Ann Ramirez, tration in art history. on the UHD alumni create local business- tion as either a man- on how to perform M.B.A., is one these She graduated with council board since es in her hometown of ager or small business a proper push-up or alumni who is not just an M.B.A. in 2017 2018. The board Houston, Texas that owner and who have on the relationship of a business owner, but with a concentration plans alumni events, has a history as one of graduated from UHD supply and demand, also a professor at in leadership and searches to fill UHD the most overweight with an M.B.A. she is using her ex- the very college she became the first stu- faculty positions, cities in America. Professor pertise in both of her graduated from. Pro- dent commencement assists with student Professor Ramirez Ramirez is also cur- fields to give back to fessor Ramirez began speaker in history of orientation, and is also a co-found- rently pursuing her the community and teaching in 2018; the M.B.A. program. speaks with potential er of the Beyond doctorate at Creighton pass that knowledge she currently teaches She was also students and their par- Great Corporation, a University to obtain a forward. Principles of Manage- the fitness coordinator ents about the UHD non-profit organiza- Doctorate of Business ment (MGT 3301), for UHD’s Sports and experience. tion run by a group of Administration in or- Business Commu- Fitness department Thanks to her UHD alumni. Beyond ganizational behavior. nication (BA 3350), from 2014 to 2017 determination in the Great focuses on We typically think of and Introduction to where she oversaw business field, Profes- young women lead- our success as being Business (BA 1301) all fitness events and sor Ramirez currently ership by providing independently based at UHD. classes taught in the runs two of her own mentoring roles to fe- on ourselves. The The University of Houston-Downtown Friday December 11, 2020 Gator Life 5 Local Business Spotlight 7th Heaven Coffee and Eatery By Anthony Raul Ramirez COVID-19 Starbucks, but with passionate in what preparation building a determining how to Support local small has severely damaged better coffee and fresh you are doing and clientele base, testing improve your estab- businesses whenever small businesses this cooked food!” what you bring to the menu improvements, lishment you’ve built you can because don’t year because of lock- How has the market. If you want to learning what your – all for it to be torn know what you have down restrictions and transition been with start a business for a customers enjoy, down within months. until it’s gone. fear of further spread. moving to a new quick buck, then think However, a business location? again. We would not owner, Davy Quin, I “The transi- recommend starting recently spoke with tion has been difficult, a business during has used this time to but we have gained COVID unless you restructure and im- several new repeat lo- have plenty of expe- prove their business. cal customers as well rience. Make sure to Quin opened Grind- as older clientele. Due support small local break Café in Decem- to tough times, how- places that you love, ber 2016 hosting a ever, people don’t go otherwise they will combination of food, out to eat as often as disappear. “ coffee, and video before so we are still Quin’s story games, even referring struggling through. is the story of many 7th Heaven shows appreciation for their customers. to drink additions as But there is a light at small business owners 7th Heaven burger. Image credit: Anthony Raul Ramirez. Image courtesy of Dharminder Tiwana. “XP boosts.” the end of the tunnel today. After years of Unfortunate- in that we are close to ly, Quin eventually a vaccine.” closed Grindbreak Were you Café. However, able to hire back any instead of giving up, of the staff you had? Quin chose to restart “Most of our with a new location previous staff, also in Humble. That was college students, the beginning of 7th stayed on board Heaven Coffee & because they love Eatery. what we serve. Some What are the students who have differences between graduated moved on your new eatery and to their career jobs. “ the previous one? Do you have “We now have any advice for entre- an excellent menu preneurs attempting from vegan options to start their own to fresh burgers with businesses in the a focus on freshness future? and quality meals. “My advice 7th Heaven was then to any entrepreneur is born as a reference to make sure to plan to Seventh Heaven for the first year, then from the video game the next five years. ‘Final Fantasy 7.’ Have projections Since we cannot host and a backup plan. events anymore, the Think over your idea Connect with a Recruiter to Learn More current location is 100 times and see if smaller. But we have there is a market for it a drive-thru so we can through research and get your drinks and talking to different food out faster. We people, because in are currently working business, not every- on getting our web- thing goes as planned. site polished so you You need to know can order from online what to do during PEACECORPS.GOV/WORK quickly for pick up, the worst times. Also as well. Imagine a make sure you are The University of Houston-Downtown 6 Gator Life Friday December 11, 2020 UHD’s search for new president continues with Presidential Candidate Forums He tional profile. But she help him achieve Faculty Advisor, and Junius J. used stories queried how finances more contacts for the a Career Advisor. throughout would play into his future. Dr. Gonzales the presen- vision. Ed Cueva, ended his presenta- tation to In answer, Dr. Ph.D. asked Dr. Gon- tion, stating that UHD Gonzales, make his Gonzales spoke about zales to talk about has a real sense of points clear his vast experience in shared governance belonging. and often fundraising, and his and transparency. The Dr. Gonzales Ph.D. mentioned place on the board of response centered is a first-generation By Sheryl Sellers Image courtesy of NYIT website his effec- directors of several around building a college student, son Nov. 16 was one of his visions tiveness non-profits where slow growth of trust of poor immigrant marked the first of for the future. He as a team player. His he garnered many and having a common parents and is a psy- many candidate fo- asserted that UHD is soft tone alluded to an contacts. His first mission. chiatrist by training. rums in UHD’s search recognized nationally approachable persona. non-profit benefactor He was que- He has held for its new president. in academia, as an in- He spoke was in the realm of ried about the impact several positions in Junius J. Gonzales, dispensable life force vividly about his theatre, then social of COVID-19 and academia, most re- Ph.D., discussed his and a leader in the past professional service, and then with what would he expect cently as the Provost belief in engaging vital face of commu- experience; however, LatinX populations. on a long-term basis. and Vice President for for a common goal, nity impact. concrete actions were He believes in two Dr. Gonzales stated Academic Affairs at with the ability to Taking that missing from thi dis- degrees of separa- he would put in as New York Institute of think, act, and influ- a step further, he cussion, and his stated tion between people. much inclusion as Technology (NYIT). ence strategically, described vital in this goals were ambiguous He furthered that he possible. Prior to joining NYIT, and following a path way: and generic. would call anyone When asked he served as senior of reach, touch, and V – visioning A ques- if needed and men- about the most suc- vice president for Ac- inspire. He remarked I – impact tion-and-answer tioned a fundraising cessful program for ademic Affairs for the that one can drive in- T - technology put in period followed his campaign he assist- students he responded University of North novation with diverse hands of every stu- remarks. Michelle ed with in Chappel with “You First” - a Carolina System, and talents. dent Moosally, Ph.D. com- Hill, Texas, where he first year transition as its interim presi- Using a theme A – agility mented that his ideas helped fund crowd- wherein students have dent from Jan.-Mar. and core components L – liberating sounded exciting for sourcing for an orga- a Professor Advisor, 2016. UHD’s future and na- nization. This would a Peer Advisor, a

First-genera- Gonzales with Distin- interact in society dent success tion college student, guished Achievement to create systems of (i.e. Asso- Rhonda M. Rhonda M. Gonza- for Excellence in discrimination and ciation of les, Ph.D., earned a University Service in oppression. Latino Pro- Batchelor and Mas- 2016. With this fessionals Gonzales, ter of Arts from the Gonzales’ awareness of inter- for Amer- University of Cali- areas of expertise sectionality, Gonzales ica, Black fornia. She went on include Linguistics, has also held various Student Ph.D. By Jaida Doll Image courtesy of UHD website to complete a Doctor Diaspora, and Mex- positions with or- Association, of Philosophy from ican History, but ganizations that are Center for academic success by and Synergy Acade- the same university. the majority of her dedicated to student Critical Race Studies, taking action against my and the UTSA’s Gonzales also has a professional research success. Some of her among many others). the systemic oppres- First Generation and K-8 Bilingual Teach- surrounds African past experiences in For her work sion that often resides Transfer Student Cen- ing Certificate from American studies. this arena include: in diversity, Gonzales in the education sys- ter. California. It delves into the Director of “PIVOT and team were twice tem. Her defini- Since 2004, histories, literatures, for Academic Suc- awarded with UTSA’s “Her defi- tion of educators is Gonzales has held religions, societies, cess,” a Fellow of the San Antonio Presi- nition of leadership quite similar. Gon- various positions and psychology of the Hispanic Association dent’s Distinguished is a simple one: It’s zales’ states “Edu- at the University of African culture illu- of Colleges and Uni- Diversity Award in creating pathways of cators… are trying Texas at San Antonio minate social classifi- versities, Fellow of 2013 and 2016. success for others,” to prepare people to including the Profes- cations and the ways the American Council Gonzales’ USTA bio stated Tricia Schwen- walk through doors sor and Chair of His- in which these classi- on Education. describes her as a nesen of UTSA. that they otherwise tory Department, Vice fications impact indi- Gonzales’ “strategic, energetic, Gonzales’ has wouldn’t be prepared President for Student vidual development. experiences in these relatable and consid- created many of these to walk through.” Success, and Vice Gonzales’ research areas could apply to erate leader.” pathways for student Provost for Strategic seems innovative and and greatly impact Much of her success at UTSA - she Initiatives. For her progressive, as it aims UHD’s many centers work focuses on the has founded both UT- work at the univer- to understand how and organizations that ways in which to SA’s Women’s Profes- sity, UTSA awarded these classifications are dedicated to stu- prepare students for sional Advancement Friday December 11, 2020 Gator Life 7 UHD’s search for new president continues with Presidential Candidate Forums

ciples are: the demographics of munity members to students by working Loren James education is first-generational col- support the program. with community the pathway lege student. Through UHD system also members to create of advance- this educational needs to provide the jobs directly benefit- Blanchard, ment; their program, Blanchard’s essential resources for ing UHD students. He children goal is to enhance faculty preparation also wants to create lives had student retention and which must include a pipeline program to be better help them obtain a training and profes- to provide a smooth Ph.D. than their degree of value from sional development. transition from grade By Stephanie Alvarez Image courtesy of CUS website. own; and UHD. To improve According to school to the UHD Loren James from the University lastly, it is student degree com- Loren Blanchard, “It higher education Blanchard, Ph.D., is of Georgia. important to place pletion, Blanchard’s is not in what we say system. Through his the Executive Vice As president intentional support. initiatives will focus but in what we do initiatives, Dr. Loren Chancellor for Ac- of the UHD, candi- Blanchard’s in the following six when they leave us.” J. Blanchard aims ademic and Student date, Blanchard plans plan is to set forth areas: Academic Being able to make UHD and Affairs at the Cali- to stimulate an equity an equity-minded preparation, enroll- to create value to equity minded edu- fornia State Univer- minded education education program ment management, the degree that UHD cational institution sity - the largest and program for UHD which will bring forth student engagement students will obtain which will cater to all most diverse system students, staff, and its a comprehensive and well-being, finan- is essential to the students, while also of higher education community. His per- structure necessary cial assistance, data future outcomes of targeting to enhance in the US. Blanchard sonal values were set for student reten- analytics, and admin- the UHD institution. the opportunities for is a first-generation forth by his parents tion, catering to all istrative barriers. For As president, Dr. degree completion college graduate, who bestowed three UHD students, but the strategies to work, Blanchard seeks to for first-generation obtaining his Ph.D. in fundamental values in also giving particular it is critical for UHD create more oppor- students. education psychology daily life. These prin- notice to the needs of faculty and com- tunities for UHD On Dec. 1, would want to be. ners and faculty and itself from UH current UHD interim Tillis stated staff development. When asked president Antonio that the UHD mission Questions how he would en- Antonio D. Tillis, Ph.D., present- “speaks to my core.” involved improving gage students, Tillis ed at the Candidate He is attracted to the distance relations with responded that the Forums. Dr. Tillis diverse demograph- UHD remote campus- Dean of Students Tillis, Ph.D.Image courtesy of UHD website. By Sheryl Sellers is a first-generation ic and the volume es. Dr. Tillis answered would work to in- munication between Tillis also college student; he of first-generation that he would inte- still pride in students faculty and admin- commented that he pursued a corporate students who will grate them into the and the ability to see istration; tuning into would not be in favor career in Washington become the “game university community themselves as alumni. online classes to see of a higher rate of D.C. after receiving changers for their and determine what He suggested commu- how faculty engage online courses vs his bachelor’s de- family.” He con- other impact they can nication with student with the students; face-to-face in the gree in Spanish from tended that UHD is have. organizations, offer- seek out community post-pandemic cli- Vanderbilt University. affordable and com- Tillis dis- ing “Pizza with the partners for oppor- mate. Following a trip to the prehensive and has a cussed adding doc- President” from time tunities for students Concerning Dominican Republic great opportunity for toral programs at to time. who learn differently; the impact of I-10 and working with an community outreach. UHD, but he implied He sees keep the campus safe; construction on UHD orphanage there, he His goals for that this may conflict UHD getting a better attentively listen to campus, Tillis said found his true calling UHD include stu- with programs at UH. footprint in STEM. learn; bringing out one needs to be aware – teaching. dent-centered intern- When inquired about He would lobby for “the jewels” that are of how to handle sur- Having had ships, and aggres- bringing a School of programs that UHD hidden in the graduate prises. TXDOT may affiliations with many sive branding of the Journalism to UHD wants to add, within programs; determine create opportunity to universities, the ques- university, highlight- to strengthen The the structure of the if the university is have more of a cam- tion is: why UHD? He ing affordability and Dateline, Dr. Tillis UH System. He sug- organized correctly. pus feel. They would stated that while UHD uniqueness. answered that UH has gests looking at ways Furthermore, need to address park- is “outside the shadow He comment- the [Jack J.] Valenti UHD can find a niche he would want to add ing issues and acquire of the University of ed that the FTIC grad- School of Commu- and ask how UHD faculty that represents first right of refusal on Houston (UH), we are uation rates are good, nication so adding can differentiate itself diversity, a small rep- property owned by the Houston’s university.” but they can be better. the program at UHD from UH. resentative of Ph.D.’s State. UHD will need Dr. Tillis men- He would contemplate would be a challenge. Other issues from underrepresent- a continuity of oper- tioned his passion for funding for scholar- He suggests looking he would address ed demographics. ations plan, and how serving and making ships, post-doctoral at ways UHD can find as UHD president Students need to see best to utilize satellite UHD a place where programs, corporate a niche and ask how include: themselves in leader- campuses. activists and students and community part- UHD can differentiate Open com- ship positions. The University of Houston-Downtown 8 News Friday December 11, 2020 Houston prepares to deliver COVID-19 vaccine By Riyasa Shrestha The The FDA announced mid-December. from storing it in Army General Gus- ing this highly infec- COVID-19 vaccine is it will review Pfizer’s Texas Chil- ultra-cold freezers, tave Perna said. tious disease.” on its way. Pharma- EUA on Dec. 10. dren’s Hospital, to then thawing it Mark Wallace, The FDA says ceutical company, Operation Houston Methodist, and distributing it to CEO of Texas Chil- its process will be Pfizer, is in the pro- Warp Speed, the US Memorial Hermann the publicin a short dren’s Hospital wrote meticulous and trans- cess of applying for based organization and MD Anderson period. in an email announc- parent when consider- an Emergency Use tasked with expedit- Cancer Center con- “We’re going ing TCH’s participa- ing Pfizer’s vaccine, Authorization (EAU) ing and distributing firmed they are in to get it down to the tion, “I can think of and will stream its from the Food and the vaccine, stated talks with the local, state. States are going no greater challenge Dec. 10 meeting on Drug Administration that once is approved, state and federal offi- to tell us exactly we have to overcome YouTube, Facebook, (FDA) for its vaccine. 40 million doses will cials about the ship- where they want it to together, and I can Twitter and the FDA The vaccine has prov- be distributing right ments. be, and we can put think of no better website. en to be 95% effective away. Houston-area These discus- it in one place in the news to hear than that during trial sessions, hospitals are pre- sions will help coor- state or we can put it Texas’s Children’s an efficacy level con- paring for the first dinate other factors in 10,000 places in will be given such a sidered remarkable. shipment, likely in regarding the vaccine, the state,” the U.S. vital tool in combat- Pope Francis appoints first Black cardinal By Salvador Hernandez On Nov. 28, ceremony, each cardi- Church as Pope Fran- the United States.” American Catholics tural parishes.” Archbishop Wilton nal as restricted to 10 cis has envisioned a Gregory further went in the United States. The Catholic Gregory was elevated guests each. goal for there to be on to state “I hope it’s Of Roman Catholic Church now has 229 to the status of cardi- In addition to more diversity and a sign to the African parishes in the United cardinals. Of those, nal by Pope Francis Archbishop Wilton inclusion within the American communi- States, 798 are con- 128 cardinals are in a ceremony held at Gregory, 11 other church hierarchy. ty that the Catholic sidered to be pre- eligible to vote for the Vatican, becoming men were chosen to Gregory com- Church has a great dominantly African the next pope once the first Black car- receive the honor of mented on his ascen- reverence, respect and American. Most of Pope France retires dinal in the Catholic the cardinal position. sion in the Church esteem for the peo- those continue to be or passes away. Pope Church. These men came hierarchy to the ple, for my people of on the East Coast and Francis has chosen 73 Due to the pandemic, from the Philippines, position of cardinal. color.” in the South. Further so far, meaning that the ceremony was far Rwanda and Chile, to “It’s been a According west of the Missis- the new Pope selected different than most name just a few. time to thank God for to the United States sippi River, African will most likely have years. Instead of the These nomi- this unique moment Conference of Cath- American Catholics the same slant toward thousands of guests nations are a step for- in my life and in the olic Bishops, “There are more likely to be his policies. that attend the papal ward for the Catholic life of the church in are 3 million African immersed in multicul-

By Keven Poll Hero Project recruits over 37,000 workers Balderas Elections ex- 100 days over 37,000 Princeton University students with alum- every 10 of those poll older Americans, who perts feared the pan- young people to be who would go on to ni to get hands-on workers were be- could by and large demic would cause a poll-workers. The form the Poll Hero experience, develop tween 61 and 70 years abstain from partici- devastating shortage volunteers exceeded Project. What con- new skills and grow of age. 26.9 percent pating as poll workers of poll workers, roles the organization’s tributed most to them professionally,” said were 71 and over. in 2020 to protect the middle-aged and original goal of 1000 coming together was, Kimberly Betz, the The country themselves amid a elderly have tradition- in less than two ironically, the pan- Center’s executive had already witnessed potential second wave ally filled. However, weeks. demic. As businesses director, at the end closed polling loca- of the coronavirus. that concern never “And we were shuttered and schools of June in an online tions and long lines With these issues in materialized, thanks just like, ‘whoa,’ cancelled class, blog which Princeton in connection with mind, the threat of not to a number of orga- maybe this is a thing, college students were launched to promote the primaries. For having enough poll nized efforts which you know,” says losing job and intern- its campaign to assist instance, in Georgia’s workers during Early recruited thousands Avi Stopper, one ship opportunities its students during the primary election in Voting and Election over several months of its co-founders, left and right. Many pandemic. June, a host of issues, Day loomed. to work the polls just of passing that first universities, including According to including four-hour Avi and his in time for Election milestone. “I think Princeton, ran to their the Election Admin- lines, malfunctioning young colleagues Season, 2020. that that was a really rescue, recurring to istration and Voting ballot machines and resolved to tackle this One such ef- remarkable moment.” their alumni networks Survey on the 2018 unprepared poll work- need, and their ini- fort was the Poll Hero A couple of to see whether anyone general election, ers, resulted in many tiative, rebranded as Project, a non-profit weeks had elapsed would assist them. 8 out of every 10 voters leaving the the Poll Hero Project, organization compris- between that moment “The Center poll workers of the polls without casting quickly grew as a re- ing mostly of high- and when Avi first for Career Develop- 637,713 reported by their votes. sult. By Election Day, school and college teamed up with the ment [at Princeton] 45 states were 41 Additionally, its volunteers num- students. It succeeded students from Denver developed initiatives years old or older. the pandemic posed bered roughly 115. in recruiting in about East High School or to quickly connect Meanwhile, 3 out of serious risks for Continued on News, Page 10 The University of Houston-Downtown Friday December 11, 2020 News 9

Nielsen case on the tion.” wind is blowing, is Judge restores DACA, legality of DACA. “Although cruel and dehuman- Juliana Macedo do this is a victory for izing. The incoming Nascimento, DACA immigrant youth, Biden-Harris admin- allows new applicants recipient and state loved ones and allies istration must use By Indira Zaldivar to the U.S. as kids ically extend to two and local policy man- who have fought every tool at their On Dec. 4, a and who meet specific years the one-year ager, of the youth-led every step of the way, disposal to move on federal judge in the criteria, to work and DACA grants and immigrant network, DACA does not give permanent solutions Eastern District of reside legally in the work permits given to United We Dream, us permanent protec- for immigrant youth New York directed U.S. for a two-year 65,800 DACA recipi- warned in a press tion from deporta- and over 11 million the Department of period subject to ents following Wolf’s release on Dec. 4 that tion,” Macedo said. undocumented people Homeland Security to renewal. For the first memorandum policy. “Trump allies could “Living from court to living in this coun- publicly announce by time since September Garaufis, an attempt to destroy court ruling, on the try.” Dec. 7, that first-time 2017, new applicants appointee of Pres- DACA and expose whims of politicians applications, renewal will be allowed in the ident Bill Clinton, millions to deporta- or which way the requests, and advance program and be able ruled on Nov. 14 that parole requests for to secure their status Wolf’ was “not law- the Deferred Action at least for two years fully serving” when for Childhood Arriv- without the threat of he issued that memo. als program will be deportation. While human accepted. Garaufis’ new rights organizations U.S. Dis- ruling in the Batalla have applauded this trict Judge Nicholas Vidal v. Wolf law- victory, many also Garaufis has ruled suit invalidated the advise the immigrant to restore DACA as July 28 memoran- community to remain originally established dum by acting DHS vigilant as other ef- on June 15, 2012 by secretary Chad Wolf forts to dismantle the the Obama Adminis- which reduced to program persist. On tration. The DACA one year the period December 22, a Texas program temporarily of renewed deferred court, led by Judge allows Dreamers, action. He directed Hanen, will hear DACA supporters rally outside the U.S. Supreme Court on June 18, in Washington, DC on the day the Supreme Court, in a immigrants brought DHS to automat- the State of Texas v. 5-4 decision, rejected the Trump administration’s attempt to end DACA. Image courtesy of Drew Angerer via Getty Images.

By Lauren Researchers identify COVID-19 super-spreaders Anderson Upon onset make an infected said study co-author about 60% greater If everything is con- plored producing a of the COVID-19 person a COVID Michael Kinzel from than when they do not densed to one exit COVID-19 cough pandemic, research- super-spreader. UCF. “We show that have these features. or has less area, the drop to thicken ers estimated that Scientists from the the human body has The research- force of expulsion, people’s spit and people with SAR- University of Central influencers, such as a ers also simulated the velocity, and the drag any sneezes to SCoV-2 could infect Florida’s Depart- complex duct sys- thin, medium, and distance are greater. the ground faster to 2 to 3 people, but ment of Mechanical tem associated with thick saliva. They Those with less or no reduce the likelihood it has recently been and Aerospace En- the nasal flow that found that thinner teeth have a weaker of transmission in the proven that they can gineering used 3D actually disrupts the saliva, that are com- sneeze expulsion as immediate aftermath infect a much larger modelling and nu- jet from your mouth posed from smaller do those with a clear of a sneeze. amount of people merical simulations and prevents it from droplets, stay in the nose. Because it can “The results that can range from to digitally recreate dispersing droplets far air longer than medi- help reduce germ- show exposure levels 14 to 40 people at a sneezes from people distances.” um or thick saliva. spread, researchers are highly dependent time. The existence of with different physio- The research- The research- suggest blowing the on the fluid dynamics super-spreaders can logical features. They ers made four models ers also stated that nose regularly and that can vary de- accelerate the rate of studied how different using computer-gen- when people with keeping it free-flow- pending on several new infections and facial features, such erated subjects - a full an uncongested nose ing. human features,” says expand the geograph- as a blocked nose set of teeth with an blow into a tissue, the “Teeth create Kareem Ahmed, an ic distribution of the or a full set of teeth, uncongested nose, no speed and distance a narrowing effect associate professor in disease. can contribute to teeth with an uncon- that sneeze droplets in the jet that makes UCF’s Department of Whether or super-spreader events gested nose, no teeth will travel decreases. it stronger and more Mechanical and Aero- not someone is a by examining these with a congested This is because an turbulent,” Kinzel space Engineering super-spreader will sneeze droplets for nose, and a full set of uncongested nose said. “They actually and study co-author. depend on a combina- the length of travel teeth with a congested provides a path for appear to drive trans- The researchers are tion of the virus, the and amount of time nose. the sneeze to exit. mission. So, if you hoping to conduct person’s biology, and they linger in the air. They found With a blocked nose, see someone without clinical trials with their environment or “This is the that when a person the mouth becomes teeth, you can actual- a variety of volun- behavior. Recently, first study that aims to has a congested nose the only exit for the ly expect a weaker jet teers from multiple researchers have iden- understand the under- and a full set of teeth, sneeze, and having from the sneeze from backgrounds to tified the biological lying ‘why’ of how spray distance of more teeth can also them.” further validate the features that could far sneezes travel,” droplets expelled are restrict the exit area. They also ex- results. The University of Houston-Downtown 10 News Friday December 11, 2020

Police Department Houston Police Review policies and prac- Poll Hero Project tices. The Kinder Continued from News, Page 8 research supports One of those universities in terms Board is deeply flawed the recent finding of volunteers who joined of where its recruits By Riyasa Shrestha the Mayor’s Police Avi and his fellow went to school, post- reports from Houston bers from multiple Kinder In- Reform Task Force founders in their ed videos of the ce- Police Department In- organizations and the stitute conducted which recommended quest to ensure a lebrity endorsements ternal Affairs, lacking law schools at Texas a study and found the current review functioning democra- it had won, including the ability to inde- Southern University that the Indepen- board to become cy was Abby Johnson, Ben Stiller’s, and pendently investigate and the University of dent Houston Police apublicly-fund- a high-school student frequently uploaded incidents. “When you Houston. The board Oversight Board, ed, independent, from Vermont. She pictures of its new re- have full-time mon- would subpoena was deeply flawed. investigate entity, found out about the cruits, who appeared itors, they can more documents, interview The report found that promoting transpar- Poll Hero Project more than pleased to closely not just at witnesses, suspects civilian police review ency, deterring officer through Instagram in publicly announce individual instances, and police officers. boards in Dallas, misconduct, and August. their contribution to but also perhaps the It would investigate Austin and Forth ensuring accessibility “And I the organization’s policies that might possible misconduct Worth adhered to the to citizens seeking thought, ‘Wow, this efforts. lead to these instanc- by police officers and national standards of accountability. is a great way to be As the organi- es.” make the final deci- independence, but the “Until we even more civically zation gained traction After the find- sion on discipline. boards in both Hous- make a change, until engaged, and one that on social media, the ing was reported, a In June, May- ton and San Antonio we come together, I really hadn’t thought volunteers contacted group of local com- or Sylvester Turner did not meet these until we look at doc- of,’” expressed Abby. major publications, munity leaders pro- signed an executive standards. uments like this, and After signing and the national press posed that the IHPOB order regarding the Stephen afford us an opportu- up, one of the orga- zeroed in on it. By create transparency use of deadly force Sherman,co-author of nity for a solution, we nization’s members mid-November, NBC, between the commu- and no-knock war- the reportwrites that are not moving,” said contacted her, , asking NPR and ABC, had nity and the Houston rants. Turner also the current civilian civil rights activist whether she would featured the Poll Hero Police Department. appointed a Policing review board relies Cynthia Cole. be willing to be a Project in its news The board consists Reforms Task Force almost exclusively on part of the team. She coverage. of community mem- to review Houston promptly accepted, The 2020 and, found herself on presidential election ‘Wipeout’ contestant dies and pitfalls, ran on the college outreach was not understaffed ABC from 2008 until team, recruitingcol- in the vast majority 2014 and is being lege-age students to of polling locations rebooted by TBS and become poll workers. nationwide. Many after completing course production company Her team’s efforts individuals and group By Lauren Anderson before participating in at the ITT Technical Endemol Shine North involved reaching out initiatives like the A competitor the show. Institute before he America. to professors, student abovementioned suc- on the television com- A spokesper- started working as a Production organizations, sports cessfully filled in the petition show “Wipe- son for TBS said, marketing director at on “Wipeout” was teams and newspa- gaps: Some counties out” required medical “We are devastated Ultimate Weight Loss paused on Nov. 19 pers. even claim they had attention from on-site to have learned of his Solutions, along with and Nov. 20 and “It was a to turn away volun- emergency medical passing and our deep- his girlfriend, in 2011 resumed after the very interesting teers because there personnel on Nov. 18 est sympathy goes out The show, in planned break for the experience,” Abby were too many. What after completing an to the family.” which contestants Thanksgiving holi- remarked. “Most of is clear is that Amer- obstacle course. After Endemol must navigate an day. the time, it was fail- icans of all ages were 38-year-old Michael Shine North America, obstacle course that ure. For every fifteen left after the election Paredes was rushed to the production com- features giant balls to twenty noes, we with a novel and pro- the hospital, he died pany for would get a yes.” found appreciation of on Nov. 19.. the series, The Poll Hero what it means to live Law enforce- added, Project leveraged in a democracy. ment told TMZ that “We offer social media particu- “I think it’s they received a call our heart- larly well to promote what so many mem- about a person expe- felt con- its work and gain bers of our team have riencing cardiac arrest dolences influence. On TikTok, come to appreciate, on Nov. 18. Paredes to the it garnered views in which is that democ- was treated with a family the hundreds of thou- racy is a participation defibrillator because and our sands, and on Twitter, sport,” expressed Avi. he “was experiencing thoughts it gained thousands of “We all need to be chest pains after com- are with followers. active members and pleting the course.” them Its savvy participants engaged Contestants under- at this marketing is clearly in defending our de- went medical exam- time.” displayed on its Twit- mocracy.” inations, including Paredes Michael Paredes with his girlfriend before he died competing on “Wipeout.” Image courtesy of ter page, where the COVID-19 testing, studied Heavy.com organization ranked The University of Houston-Downtown Friday December 11, 2020 Arts and Entertainment 11

Art Car Museum features local tributing a few of its vehicles, By Aansa Usmani artists, impacts Houston it is not in charge of The Houston ing exhibit were the in a situation that I’m the parade Art Car Museum, lo- small, bulky televi- surrounded by beau- itself. The Orange cated in the Heights, sions from the 1990s, tiful art and cool cars, Show, a nonprofit continues to showcase documenting the pro- and... be a joy ringer 501(c)(3) organiza- “art cars” in its gal- cess of creating one with our wonderful tion, hosts the annual lery from local-based of the displayed at- exhibits here and parade* and asks for artists to outsiders tractions. Each of the helping people en- donations from the amid the pandemic. televisions showed a joy a different kind museum and other In addition to the “art different angle of the of approach to what independent vendors. “Fruitmobile” by Jackie Harris. Image credit: Aansa Usmani cars” the museum artist revamping an many... would think This year the Art Car also focuses on other ordinary car into an is an art museum and Parade was canceled local artistic works artistic masterpiece. adding a little spice due to the pandemic. ranging from sculp- In the end, he drives of the cars,” Duplan The Art Car tures to paintings the car on the road said. “I just enjoy Museum is open to and everything in and notes the visible seeing people from all the public from Fri- between. Each exhibit reactions received over the world... it’s a day to Sunday 11 a.m. is on display for three from other drivers. nice place to be, and to 6 p.m. and adheres to four months and Assistant it’s always different.” to CDC guidelines is then replaced with Director, Alicia Du- The Art Car requiring face masks newer pieces, giving a plan, talked about the Museum is often con- for entry. Photogra- unique experience to impact of the museum fused with the Art Car phy without flash is visitors both new and on both the communi- Parade. Although the allowed. returning. ty and herself. Art Car Museum does An eye-catch- “I love being participate by con- Image credit: Aansa Usmani

The film is the real-life Chinese Review: ‘Over the Moon’ on Netflix engrossing from the moon rover, Jade By Varah Thornton astrophysics at the and honoring family. of a cosmic game of start with memorable Rabbit. It is an enjoy- Netflix musi- top of her class, she Fei Fei and Chang’e ping pong against and catchy songs, able film with some- cal, “Over the Moon” devises a homemade are both going Chang’e herself that stellar animation and thing for the whole follows a young girl, mag-lev rocket in through their own is as impressive in a tight plot. There is family. Fei Fei, who flies the image of her pet struggles of learning its animation as the also plenty of Chi- “Over the to the moon on her rabbit Bungee and how to move on after lyrics that are flung nese symbolism like Moon” is now homemade rocket to manages to take off the death of a loved between the two. the lucky color red, streaming on Netflix. prove that the moon only to learn that her one. The other charac- Despite her sentient moon cakes goddess is real. soon to be step broth- ters in the film serve self-indulgent in- and even a cameo of The moon er has stowed away as optimistic foils troduction, Chang’e goddess Chang’e was and risked their lives. of different ways in proves that her separated from her As they are tumbling which each can move pursuit is not out of true love Houyi after back to Earth, they on. One particularly vanity but a genuine drinking an immortal- are suddenly saved by cheerful character is connection in which ity potion and floating a beam of light, and Chin, Fei Fei’s soon she has placed all her away to the moon they crash into the to be little stepbrother hope and for which where she searches moon. Two winged who is characterized she will do anything for a way to find her lions fly them to as annoying with to achieve. The inter- lover’s soul with her the magical city of endless amounts of weaving of fable and only companion, Jade Lunaria where they energy. His quick science is beautifully Rabbit. are welcomed with acceptance of such a balanced in Fei Fei Unsure about a spectacular pop large change in both and Chang’e’s belief his father’s new love introduction by the their lives is very off that love lasts forever. interest, Mrs. Zhong moon goddess herself putting to Fei Fei, That feeling is made and her son Chin, Fei and set to the task of but it does not stop even more poignant Fei puts her faith in locating her gift in ex- Chin from helping by the loss of Au- the fable of the moon change for proof that Fei Fei in her quest drey Wells, the film’s goddess and caus- the goddess is real. to attain the treasured screenwriter and es an uproar during The film “gift” requested by original director who her family’s Moon touches on Chinese Chang’e. The best passed away in 2018 festival celebration. family traditions such example of his opti- during initial produc- as making mooncakes mism takes the form tion. An astute studier of Image courtesy of Netflix The University of Houston-Downtown 12 Arts and Entertainment Friday December 11, 2020 be instantly recogniz- Review: ‘Lego Star Wars Holiday Special’ able for fans who get to see beloved char- By James Jurewicz New Years all com- family. Bounty Hunter from “Star Wars” appropriate choice for acters from different bined into one holi- On Kodoku, “The Mandolori- is celebrating the the holidays when the film eras interact with day. Life Day is com- Rey comes across a an,”another popular holidays early this family is discussing each other. One stand- plete with presents time-traveling key Disney+ original November with the their post-meal watch out scene includes and “Tip-Yip”, the that transports her series (currently release of their Lego party. The Star Wars two Darth Vader’s hu- space version of roast to iconic Star Wars streaming its second Holiday Special on special is fun enough morously sizing each turkey. Poe Damaron, scenes. Unlike “The season). Don’t worry, Disney+. The 40-min- to be an annual tradi- other up for a possible Rose, and the Wookie Christmas Carol” Disney didn’t forget ute ride viewers take tion added to the long lightsaber duel. There Chewbacca and fami- where Scrooge sees Baby Yoda. He is also with Rey is a delight- list of quality holiday are also plenty of fan ly come for their first only one-way flash- present, looking as ful journey into the specials already in easter eggs and inside visit and to enjoy the backs, Rey and BB-8 adorable as ever slung lore of Star Wars past. existence. jokes to enjoy. Now Life Day festivities. actually interact over the Mandalori- In a similar fashion to The “Lego it’s time for a large BB-8 and Rey leave with the characters an’s shoulder. Charles Dickens “A Star Wars Holiday serving of piping hot to investigate a mys- and arguably change The Lego Christmas Carol” Rey Special” is perfect for Tip-Yip. terious message found events in the past, films have a certain and her loyal droid, fans, though people “The Lego within an ancient Jedi breaking the time- lightheartedness in BB-8, time travel with no “Star Wars” Star Wars Holiday Book, sending them space continuum. their DNA. Every into some of the most experience will be Special” is available to the distant planet, Rey has interactions character injects a iconic scenes in the entertained (but left to stream on the Dis- Kodoku. This planet with iconic charac- strong dose of goof- original “Star Wars” slightly confused). ney+ App. is where Rey intends ters like Finn, Lando iness. This character Trilogy and the more The iconic scenes will to continue her Jedi Calrissian, Kylo Ren, quality combined recent “Star Wars training. The group Darth Vader, Emper- with the immature, “prequels. is disappointed Rey or Palpatine, Yoda but layered and In the special, had to miss the party, and Luke Skywalker humorous dialog, the Resistance forces but everyone quickly who all appear during offers quality enter- are all celebrating forgets when they are the time traveling tainment for adults as Life Day, their ver- overrun with Chew- scenes. There is even well as children. The sion of Christmas, ie’s rowdy Wookie an appearance by the film would make an Thanksgiving and Image courtesy of DailySuperhero.com

movie theaters and ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ delayed again By James Jurewicz the sanitization and sterilization tech- “Wonder Wuornos. For her per- demic. Release was This is a very serious longer have a free niques practiced by Woman 1984” has formance in the film, pushed until Aug. 14, situation for theaters, trial due to the release the cinema employ- officially been -an Theron won the Best then Oct. 2. When it and everyone in the of WW84. ees. Warner Bros. nounced as a release Actress award at the became evident that industry hopes that Is this going announced Dec. 3 on the streaming Academy Awards for there was no slowing this development is to be the standard for that every movie the service HBO Max her dynamic portray- the spread of COVID, an exception and not movie releases? Are studio will release the same day that the al of Wuornos. DC a final hopeful Christ- a financially danger- the nights out at the in 2021 will be in film is supposed to Comics and Warner mas Day release was ous precedent. The movies going to be- theaters and on HBO hit theaters Dec. 25, Media believed in announced. film stands to lose come nights in? There Max. Though they Christmas Day. This Jenkins, handing her Both Warner massive ticket sales are still people who state that it is only release news came the reins to direct Brothers and Jenkins through this move. listen to vinyl records for this next year, the from Warner Brothers one of their beloved were hopeful things HBO Max already because they believe outcome of such an Studios in November characters, and she would pick up by the has subscribers, they they have superior announcement could 2020. “Wonder Wom- delivered big time. time Thanksgiving will be getting access sound, but record significantly change an 1984” was sup- An inevitable sequel 2020 came around to the film without players are small and the film industry for posed to be the last followed the success that there would be kicking in anything do not take up very next year. So which major wide release generated by the indicators that ticket extra. Disney released much space. Movie is it? Stay home and of the year after the first “Wonder Wom- sales have improved. Mulan on Disney+, theater screens don’t screen the film on numerous release date an” film, released in This optimism was though early access fit in private homes, HBO Max, or enjoy push-backs. June 2017. “Wonder curbed by recent to the live action and there is definitely “Wonder Woman “Wonder Woman 1984” was spikes in the spread remake of the animat- a difference between 1984” the way War- Woman” and “Won- expected to garner of the COVID-19 ed original cost extra home theaters and ner Brothers original- der Woman 1984” large ticket sales at virus. Seeing no other through the app. By multiplexes. There is ly intended? were directed by the theater and the choice than to cut waiving any addition- also a mixed message “Wonder Patty Jenkins. Jen- film was given a $200 their losses, Warner al fee, subscribers of from the film indus- Woman 1984” runs kins also directed the million budget. 1984 announced in Novem- the $15.99 a month try. They stress safety 151 minutes and is 2003 film “Monster” was supposed to be ber 2020 that “Won- HBO Max get access and the importance of scheduled to release staring Charlize released in late 2019 der Woman 1984” to “Wonder Woman social distancing and in theaters and on Theron and Christina though the film was was going to be re- 1984” on Christmas all that comes along HBO Max on Dec. Ricci, a serial killer ultimately pushed to leased both in theaters Day. On Dec. 3, with a pandemic. Yet 25th. biopic about the life June 5, 2020 due to and on HBO Max Warner announced they are also talking and crimes of Aileen the world-wide pan- on Christmas Day. that the app will no up the cleanliness of The University of Houston-Downtown Friday December 11, 2020 Opinions 13 Those the American peo- and Trump in 2016), society has long who estab- ple to choose their rendering Americans upheld the freedom U.S. should abolish lished the next president.” This to believe that their of expression, and the Electoral outdated system has vote does not matter. electoral college has Electoral College College contributed to the Another issue seemingly contradict- intended this rise of viewing states that arises with the ed this idea. By Aansa Usmani preferring to maintain system to differently during electoral college is In abolishing Every leap the Electoral College, prevent unsuitable or presidential election faithless electors. the electoral college, year (four years), the believing that who- incompetent individ- cycles, giving more Suppose these ap- it will lead to further U.S. holds its pres- ever attains over 270 uals from holding weight to specific pointed electors do American civic par- idential elections. electoral votes wins the highest office and states than others. not vote following ticipation and higher Its citizens deter- the election. instilling a corrupt This system their state’s prefer- voter turnout. The mine which of the The historical agenda that serves the has given more stress ence. In that case, Electoral College is a two major political origins of the Elector- best of their interests, to “battleground” they are deemed system, among many, parties (Democratic al College stem from rather than the Ameri- states (ex: Pennsyl- “faithless” and are ei- that continues to hold or Republican) will our Founding Fathers can people. vania, Michigan, ther fined or removed the American people govern for the next in the late 1700s. As time pro- Florida) because of a from becoming a back. No other coun- four years. In addition According to Vox, the gressed, education state’s potentiality to state’s delegate or try has a system like to the popular vote, electors were a small and literacy levels in- flip support towards elector. this, and for a country the electoral college group of people who creased within Amer- a candidate and their This system that touts freedoms also plays a crucial would determine the ican society, allowing party. Twice within prefers those to abide for all, it shows that role in determining nation’s next presi- more individuals to history, it benefited by the rules rather freedom is not truly the elective winner. dent—in addition to voice approval or the unpopular candi- than state their pref- free. Its results the popular vote. At dissent for individuals date (Bush in 2000, erences. American have been the subject the time, American or political parties at of controversies in society was mostly the ballot box. The two separate elec- rural farmers, and electoral college, tions. Within those in- most of its members however, is a rem- stances, the electoral were illiterate and nant of a different college’s fate is chal- simple-minded, and American society, one lenged, with some concepts of civic par- where civil rights and calling for its abol- ticipation or electoral liberties were mostly ishment and others decorum were within for white, cisgender, wanting its historical their infancy stages. land-owning men. structure to remain Thus, the electoral The Elec- intact. According to college was created toral College is “a PewResearch.org, and would serve as vestigial structure... 53% of Americans “checks and balanc- leftover from [an] era favor repealing the es” to decide who in which the found- Protestors demonstrate against President Trump’s victory in Philadelphia in 2016. Trump won the presidential election outdated system, would be the actual ers... did not want... compared to 40% president. despite losing the popular election by more than two million votes. Image courtesy of Mark Makela/Getty Images via NPR.

By Aansa or locally. Texas can that further suppress can ensure that Texas Texas is turning blue Usmani become blue within these voters in favor will reflect its voter Texas in 2020 urbs leaned towards Democratic party has the next few election of those who support demographics. is vastly different the Democratic party, continued to focus on cycles, but much their agenda. We need Voter sup- from Texas 20 years beginning with the the suburbs, helping work still needs to be to engage with voters pressive tactics will ago; there is more di- 2018 Midterms. its voters find better done. Alongside high and educate them on further limit civic versity, higher educa- Democratic candidate ways to vote and civi- voter turnout and the facts, rather than participation and tion levels, and more Beto O’Rourke lost cally participate with- civic participation, be submissive to hos- allow politicians to registered voters. the Senate race to out further spreading. tackling GOP-based tile rhetoric of how create laws that will Despite holding onto incumbent Ted Cruz Zoom fundraisers, misinformation is socialism is being disadvantage spe- its Red state status (R). The suburbs and phone-banking, and critical to ensur- implemented via the cific groups of peo- in the 2020 election, inner cities made the other virtual forms ing the Democratic Democratic party. ple. These practices Texas continues to margin between the connected voters with Party’s legacy in the Texas is one of the should not exist in shift towards the blue two men close (Cruz other like-minded Lone Star State. most diverse states 2020 or any other side of the spectrum. 50.9 to Beto 48.3). individuals and en- We need to tackle in the country and period. For Texas to Although it likely will That same couraged their peers voter suppression creating more inclu- truly become blue, not occur during the year, Texas picked to vote. laws by challenging sive voter programs we need to work hard 2020 or 2022 election up 12 House seats in The Texas areas that limit uni- can help change and continue fighting cycle, the chances of the Texas Legisla- Democratic Party has versal mail-in bal- the state’s political these suppressive tac- Texas turning blue ture, threatening the made many success- lots or ballot boxes. legacy. It is a chal- tics. Hard work does within the next few once-stronghold GOP ful efforts in winning It is unfair that the lenge, but nothing pay off at the end of elections continue to controlled chamber elections over the Texas Governor and is impossible for us the day, and if ev- rise. since 2001. Addi- years, whether it be its Supreme Court Texans. Through erybody votes, good Texas’ sub- tionally, the Texas federally, state-based, have implemented these massive efforts things do happen. partisan-based laws and programs, we The University of Houston-Downtown 14 Opinions Friday December 11, 2020 Parler rises in popularity amongst conservatives By Salvador Hernandez be fact-checked or Parler was founded in growth in the site’s dangerous for its part free speech platform Parler is a censored. Many fear 2018 by John Matze, popularity. in possibly furthering where all individuals social media net- that Parler could be a Jared Thomson, and “Together we partisanship in the are welcome regard- working site geared failed experiment that Rebekah Mercer. It will continue to stand United States. The less of their color, toward free speech. that breeds extremism serves as an alterna- up to cancel culture, claim of Parler as an religion, and ideolo- The app has grown in and misinformation. tive to those that see defy authoritarian echo chamber may gy. There will be bad popularity as a major- In contrast, others tech giants such as content curation, and have ground, but in actors as there are ity of conservatives view it as a safe Twitter, Facebook, reclaim the Internet as the era of MSNBC in all parts of social and a small number haven from the grips and Instagram pre- a free and open town taking on the mantle media. However, of progressives join of billionaire corpora- ferring leftist ideas square.” Matze also of FOX News by Parler’s Terms of Ser- the site. This popu- tions ever so slightly and slanting toward added that from Nov. using the same tactics vice agreement bring larity derives from tightening their con- policing of ideas of 6 to Nov. 10, the site it used earlier in the measures to combat the fact that many in trol over the public which those media had received an influx early to late 2000s of that. Parler seems like the media have called square of ideas. corporations disagree. of 4.5 million new portraying one side a place for ideas to be it an alternative to Although In a letter to users. as ignorant, deceitful, discussed instead of Twitter, one where recently, Parler has Parler users, the CEO There are and extreme both obfuscated and stand individuals are free gained traction, grow- of Parler John Matze those that describe sides are at fault, and unchallenged. to engage in political ing in popularity due commented on the Parler as an echo that is a shame. discourse without to the 2020 election, goals he had in mind chamber for right- Parler pro- feeling the need to it is not a new site. for the site and the wing ideas and motes itself as a Biden’s pandemic response ensures truth and safety By Aansa Usmani On Nov. 7, it with the COVID-19 partisan and merely have championed the partial to either ideol- fact because of pol- was announced that pandemic and steps stick to impartial, fac- anti-mask rhetoric, ogy; it is factual and itics. The virus does Joseph R. Biden Jr. the country can take tual knowledge; these calling for vari- non-partisan. It is ri- not favor one political would become the to eradicate further candidates’ diversity ous governors (i.e.: diculous to disregard party over the other; 46th president; he and spread and develop and experience will Michigan’s Gretchen mask mandates or anyone can contract his team wasted no “herd immunity.” guide the public Whitmer, California’s social distance proto- this virus, and it is time creating a strong Biden is tap- through this tumultu- Gavin Newsom) to cols because of either up to us to make sure pandemic response ping into the expertise ous era. lift restrictions on the the official’s political that we do our civ- team, proving to of Obama-era advi- President mask mandates across stance or for the sake ic duty and wear a the country how a sors including former Trump’s pandemic the country. of “freedom.” mask. Not only will true leader responds Surgeon General response is flakey In this hy- Biden and his it protect ourselves, to a national cri- Vivek Murthy and and partisan, fueling per-partisan era, administration want but it will also protect sis. Although he is Jeff Zients. Marcella rhetoric that encour- everything is con- to ensure that we those at higher risk still president-elect, Nunez-Smith, also aged the decision strued as red or blue, can return to normal (elderly, pre-existing Biden, and his vice relevant to the Obama to fire the country’s left or right, liberal or by adhering to CDC conditions) and allow president-elect, Administration will head expert on viral conservative; we do guidelines. No matter them to continue Kamala Harris, are co-chair Biden’s diseases and pandem- not need our health your political stance, being within our lives actively consulting COVID-19 advisory ics, Anthony Fauci, experts to be fol- it is ridiculous to omit and beyond. with experts across board. None of these Ph.D. Other times, lowing a set partisan following set rules or the country in dealing officials are openly Trump’s supporters agenda. Science is not disregard scientific

the Director Biden is sworn in, he someone is a felony Federal Departments ensure answers to the will be Command- under Section 3056 of newly appointed er-in-Chief. President Title XVIII. The per- president, in this Trump’s powers will son, or any persons, peaceful transition of power case, Joe Biden. be revoked, meaning doing who attempts By Cameron Smith Biden. ended, thanks to the So, the Secret Biden will hold pow- to obstruct protection Service will not make er over the military. by the Secret Service Peace is The Secret “Former Presidents any moves on behalf Nothing Trump says will be charged with a always an option, as Service’s main goals Act.” of Donald Trump to to the military will felony. many have shown us, are as follows: To in- Now, will prevent a peaceful hold any value after Peace is the even in dark times. vestigate counterfeit- they try and fight to transfer of power. inauguration of the only option Trump President Donald ing and other federal keep a president in The military new president. has when January Trump is not exempt crimes and to protect office? No, because will not do anything Another comes. So, a peaceful from that rule, and he national leaders and the Director of the also. The military, reason why peace is transition of pow- will be expected to their families. Their Secret Service is like the Secret Ser- the only option is that er will occur, and leave peacefully from purpose extends to appointed by the vice, follows a specif- obstructing the path America can focus on the White House after protect said persons president. However, ic chain of command. of any Secret Service more important things inauguration of the and families even after the president no Furthermore, when agent while they are like staying safe from next President, Joe after their term has longer holds power, President-elect, Joe attempting to protect COVID-19. The University of Houston-Downtown Friday December 11, 2020 Opinions 15 TxDOT should implement ‘Vision C’ alternative By Indira Zaldivar The very and consider multi- ans and cyclists’ safe those promises made sequently. Plummer air-filtering system least TxDOT must modal transportation mobility. to Houston into ac- stated that Vision C in those schools. do is accept “Vision efforts. The alterna- count. proposed that TxDOT However, Plummer C,” the communi- Vision C is tive Vision C goals “Vision C is leave those segments counterargued that ty-driven alternative the highly feasible align with PlanHous- what we need to get alone. Instead, Vi- COVID-19 has high- to the North Houston alternative that Hous- ton, Resilient Hous- happen,” Plummer sion C proposed to lighted people’s need Highway Improve- ton Mayor Sylvester ton, Houston Climate said. “We’re not improve the current to enjoy the outdoors ment Project, known Turner proposed in Action Plan, Com- going to be able to footprint that already and that the children as the I-45 expansion. a letter sent to Com- plete Communities, stop the project from exists. should not have to be Vision C would min- missioner Laura Ryan and Houston Bike happening at this Secondly, moved inside for the Plan. point. It is literally Plummer said Vision sake of a polluting Councilwom- the 12th hour, but we C aims to provide freeway. She added an Letitia Plummer, can at least save our alternative transpor- that the proximity to Ph.D., shared infor- city as best as we can. tation methods in the freeway would mation about Vi- And make sure that the suburbs such as elevate the number of sion C during a talk we protect our core, Park & Rides and people with asthma hosted by the Minaret and we protect the Bus Rapid Transits to and other respiratory Foundation on Dec. communities that are reduce traffic volume. health conditions. 3 regarding the I-45 at stake right now.” “Have them Without a expansion repercus- According get on a BRT into doubt, TxDOT’s sions on communi- to drawings of the Houston, and not current design of the Protestor with Houston community group, “Stop TxDot I-45,” holds signs ties, schools, places NHHIP, TxDOT’s have to add more NHHIP fails Hous- urging people to “Stop TXDOT” during a demonstration at the intersection of of worship, families, largest displacement freeway lanes so each tonians big time. Polk and St. Emmanuel, east of downtown Houston on Sept. 3. Image courtesy and the environment. would occur in Seg- one person can get The least TxDOT of Mark Mulligan via Houston Chronicle . Plummer said ment 1 and Segment in their one car and can consider for the imize displacement, on May 12. Various that when the City 2. Segment 1 and 2 cause pollution to resilient Houstonians demand that TxDOT Houston city offi- of Houston looked at could reach up to 20 communities that we who have protested provides grants for cials and community how TxDOT should lanes wide. About are living in, and they harmful health impli- Houstonians who it groups designed it. readjust this program, 20,000 people would are going back to the cations and massive persists on displacing It considers pedestri- they wanted to take lose their jobs con- suburbs where the air displacement attached is clear.” to the project is to Third, Plum- compromise and im- By Keven mer said that Vision plement Vision C to Balderas TxDOT plans for I-45 expansion C aims to restore its full extent. the core city and “This is the green spaces because perfect example of “people want to live racial injustice and here.” For exam- socioeconomic injus- ple, Bagby Street is tices, and it continues being rejuvenated to to happen all over a space where people the country,” Plum- can have lunch and mer said during the be “much like other talk. “Because this walkable cities.” entity is so large and The NHHIP so powerful and so exacerbates the health influential, when we issues among Black do find out about this, and brown commu- the only thing we can nities in Houston. really do is settle in For example, the and make a compro- NHHIP would ex- mise.” pose Theodore Roo- This talk sevelt Elementary is available on the and Jefferson Ele- official Facebook mentary within 500 page of The Minaret feet of the freeway. Foundation. The community has shown concern about worsened air quali- ty for the children. Bob: “Are we sure a bigger I-45 won’t be another Katy freeway? How about first providing TxDOT has argued for bike lanes, public transport, ramp meters, roundabouts, sidewalks, or any combination of that they would build these measures, to decongest? indoor playgrounds George: “Just get on it, Bob. I don’t have time for this.” and implement an The University of Houston-Downtown 16 Opinions Friday December 11, 2020

ACC Founder discusses role of business, movement and work on this with me, and the rest is history. students, government in climate crisis “And really what it came down By Anthony Raul Ramirez divide and delayed And Houston specifi- talking points. We ent types of ‘divides’ to was that I was in a Benjamin real action. If you cally is where we met need an environmen- we’re told we have class that was focused “Benji” Backer truly want to address with Representative tal movement that is then we can actually on entrepreneurship founded the American climate change, work Dan Crenshaw who’s focused on partnering start fixing this prob- and the class was Conservation Coali- with conservatives obviously one of the government with lem at a global scale.” focused on how you, tion in 2017. It is a who want to champi- more well-known business to work with “What gave as an individual, can nonprofit organization on reforms.” conservative elected business leaders that you the idea to start start a business to “dedicated to mobi- Recently, the officials in the coun- want to make climate the ACC and who help fight climate lizing young people ACC toured the coun- try. He has made change part of their have been role mod- change. ACC is a around environmen- try in the “Electric himself a major voice platform and tackling els you’ve looked non-profit… so, it’s tal action through Election Roadtrip.” of the conservative it as part of the solu- at to inspire your a startup mission common-sense, The roadtrip lasted 45 movement and at tion. And really at the mission?” looking through a bi- market-based, and days in which sever- times can be some- end of the day, cor- “The idea of partisan lens, through limited-government al podcast episodes what divisive with porations and com- ACC came about innovation, markets, ideals.” Backer and were streamed re- people who disagree panies in the market when I was a fresh- and bringing conser- his team look to garding clean energy. with his opinion. But can act much quicker man in college and vatives back into the promote environ- Some episode at the end of the day, than the federal gov- thought the climate discussion. And it mentalism through a included “Nuclear he does believe that ernment can to solve conversation was far really showed me that conservative point-of- Energy is Saving climate change needs problems like climate too polarizing and far while you’re in col- view. The ACC does the World,” “The to be tackled with a change. too partisan. You had lege, those are some this by supporting six Economic Power market-based ap- of the best years to principles: conserva- of Offshore Wind,” proach and he knows “If you see a problem in society, you need act on something you tion, natural heritage, “Yale Law Professor that bipartisanship to fix it. You need to be a part of that really feel passionate localism, capitalism, on Climate Action in is important to solv- about. innovation, and bal- America,” and “Turn- ing climate change. change, whether it’s at the business level, “And that’s ance. ing Poop into Power.” Having someone like really where that During a joint Episodes also involve that at the table who political level, or social level, it starts mentorship came session in 2019 of the asking corporate of- has actually been a with you.”- Benjamin “Benji” Backer in. I had professors Congressional Sub- ficials about their en- champion for cli- at the University of committee on Foreign vironmentalism, such mate action is really founder of the American Conservation Washington where I Affairs and the Select as Communications important because if attended school who Committee on the Manager of Duke you can get someone Coalition really encouraged Climate Crisis, Back- Energy, Randy Whee- like Dan Crenshaw at me to keep going on er testified in front of less, who discussed a the table and a lot of “What dif- one side, the Dem- it and connected me Congress. 39% carbon emission people like him, you ferentiates us from ocratic party, who with the right folks to “Each of us reduction, or Chief can actually make a other environmental was at the side of the get the ACC off the play a critical role Sustainability Officer lot of progress across groups is that we table. And then you ground… People who in tackling climate of General Motors party lines.” believe this needs had the Republican run other nonprofits change. To my fellow Dane Parker explain- “It says on to be bipartisan, and side who wasn’t at or run businesses in conservatives: The ing market-driven the ACC mission these market-based the table at all. And Seattle where I started climate is changing. innovation leading to statement that you mechanisms to solv- anyone who knows ACC, those really are It’s time to claim electric vehicles. promote ‘free mar- ing climate change politics knows you the mentors for me our seat at the table “What is ket, pro business can spread across the need both sides at the outside of my parents and develop smart, the purpose behind initiatives, and country and across table to get anything who are also entre- limited-government the ACC Electric limited government the globe faster than done… If you look preneurs and instilled policies to establish Election Roadtrip environmentalism.’ simply with the gov- at climate change, this… American leadership coming to Houston? How much do you ernment. And if you it needs strong and “If you see on this issue. There is What did you do believe this is differ- wait for kind of that swift action, and you a problem in soci- a reasonable, conser- while in Texas?” ent from the status “holy grail” of a per- can’t do that without ety, you need to fix vative approach to “Obviously quo understanding fect solution to solve the conservatives at it. You need to be a climate change and Texas has a massive of environmental- climate change, you the table. When we part of that change, we need to embrace environmental im- ism?” won’t actually solve were looking at ‘How whether it’s at the it. To those on the pact, but that also “We’ve it. So we believe that can we fix that?’ I business level, polit- left: Without your means it could have a needed a new envi- the market plays a big was in my college ical level, or social leadership, this would massive positive im- ronmental movement role in that, individ- class and just decided level, it starts with be receiving the pact environmentally and that’s because for uals play a big role to buy a domain name you.” attention it deserves. depending on how it the last 20 years the in that, each region for our organization But now, it’s time for goes about its busi- current environmen- in the country plays just to get it started. solutions. Politicizing ness. We visited three tal movement hasn’t a big role in that, and Then I tweeted out if climate change has Texas cities: Houston, followed through on then if we can work anyone would want deepened the partisan Austin, and Dallas. its promises or all its across all those differ- to be a part of this The University of Houston-Downtown