Student Run Since Volume One

Thursday, August 27, 2020 | Vol. 65, Iss. 1

In This Issue...... continue as noted in Gator Life...... 2 UHD plans to keep returning Step 2 ORANGE. If the change to Step News...... 6 3 YELLOW occurs Opinions...... 13 while planning the Arts and Entertainment...... 16 students safe amid pandemic spring semester and By Sheryl Sellers the previous semes- ry? The list below includes until Sept. 8. ter (fall) was at Step Returning to the some concise but important 1 RED or Step 2 ORANGE, fall semester under the information regarding which Step 2 ORANGE: Sept. 8 - additional hybrid, online pandemic that disrupted the students can enter campus TBA interactive and low capacity spring semester can feel and when. This is up to date face-to-face classes will be overwhelming. Students are as of Aug. 26. The difference in scheduled for that coming coming back to a semester classroom instruction modes semester. like never before. The virus Step 1 RED: Aug. 24 - between Step 1 RED and During Step 3 contamination between Sept. 7 Step 2 ORANGE regards YELLOW, students will be spring and fall turned for population density. It is allowed on campus for class- the worse rather than for the Classes will be held anticipated that hybrid, face- es or to use services based on Faculty Spotlight better. Students check and online or online interactive, to-face and online interactive availability. Students will be double check their classes see Gator Life, Page 4 i.e. class held via Zoom at will operate as scheduled if allowed to drop in at Student and the mode of instruction the stated class time. Classes population density is con- Affairs and Enrollment Man- they will receive and make that can be held on cam- trolled. The Provost will agement. any necessary changes. Ex- pus, face-to-face and social prioritize courses that need perience in adaptability and distanced, will be approved to meet face-to-face based Step 4 GREEN: TBA flexibility abounds. We must by Provost Eric Carl Link, on content and floor to floor learn the steps to continue to Ph.D. This small selection balancing of population if If the situation changes from be flexible. of classes includes those with density becomes an issue. Step 3 YELLOW to Step 4 UHD is operating critical instructional needs or Students will be allowed on GREEN during mid-semes- under the same Response resources like classes with campus during the time sur- ter, classes will continue as Steps put in place via exec- lab portions. Students are rounding their face-to-face noted in Step 3 YELLOW. NY Attorney General utive orders of Texas Gover- only allowed in the building class(es). If the change from Step 3 nor Gregg Abbott (see Figure for their face-to-face class Student access is YELLOW to Step 4 GREEN sues NRA 1 below). The campus will or to connect with a specific allowed to visit with stu- occurs while planning the see News, Page 8 begin the fall semester at student service during its dent support services or by next semester (spring) then Step 1 RED. Although UHD available hours of operation. appointment with Student normal course planning will can move into Step 2 OR- Students may be Affairs or Enrollment Man- resume with all available ANGE on August 24, the able to enter the campus by agement. Students are not modes of instruction. Normal decision was made to operate appointment with a specific allowed to study or gather on activities will resume. the campus at Step 1 RED to service, for instance, to pick campus. In this sense, “go- make an easier transition to up supplies or textbooks. ing green” takes on a whole Step 2 ORANGE on Sept. 8. Face-to-face award ceremo- Step 3 YELLOW: TBA new connotation. Though What exactly does nies, student conferences or the safest route may seem all this mean for the student, activities are not permitted. If a change from the longest, here’s to “going and even more so, what does UHD will begin the Step 2 ORANGE to Step green” in the fall semester... this mean for the first-time semester in Step 1 RED and 3 YELLOW occurs during or sometime soon after. Remembering student navigating what is will continue in this phase mid-semester, classes will activist, John Lewis already unfamiliar territo- see News, Page 9 Step 1 - RED: Severe, Uncontrolled Community Transmission

Step 2 - ORANGE: Significant, Uncontrolled Community Transmission

Step 3 - YELLOW: Moderate, Controlled Transmission

Step 4 - GREEN: Minimal, Controlled Transmission

Fund our Future Figure 1 - Phases of the spread of COVID-19, used to gauge the safety of returning to campus. see News, Page 12 The University of Houston-Downtown 2 Gator Life Thursday, August 27, 2020 Editor’s Note: In the previous issue, Vol. 64 Iss. 0, published July 1, 2020, The Dateline printed a statement referring to student, Victoria Jackson as BSA President.

The Dateline retracts this statement, as Victoria Jackson is a BSA member, not BSA UniversityTHE ofDATELINE Houston-Downtown President. 1 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002 The mistake has since been fixed in the online version of The Dateline. Office: S-260 Phone: 713.221.8275 The Dateline apologizes to Victoria Jackson, BSA member, as well as to the actual [email protected] BSA President, Samantha Mosely. Fall 2020 Staff Editor...... Jaida Doll Assistant Editor...... Aansa Usmani Social Media Manager...... Varah Thornton SGA announces #MaskUpUHD Business Manager...... Sheryl Sellers News Section Editor...... Indira Zaldivar Gator Life Section Editor...... Laura Dunn and introduces new officers A&E Section Editor...... Varah Thornton By Indira Zaldivar Opinions Section Editor...... Briana Garcia The Student Gov- senators at-large. Mosley up on your career, your Faculty Advisor...... Joe Sample, Ph.D. ernment Association is also the new attorney dreams, or goals that you (SGA) wants to see your general for SGA. have in mind. Keep push- selfies! Members of the ing forward,” Chavez The Dateline is the official student newspaper of In support of the legislative board rejected added. the University of Houston-Downtown. Since its first Mask-Up campaign, SGA four nominees running for The director of issue in 1982, The Dateline is proud to be “Student has invited our Gators to senior senator positions for health and wellness is a Run since Volume One.” We strive to meet the needs submit selfies wearing a the Marilyn Davies Col- new position, and SGA of a growing university as well as the growing metro- face mask. lege of Business, College said they welcome stu- politan city that surrounds us. Kassandra Apari- of Humanities and Social dents to apply. cio, director of commu- Sciences, and the College Also addressed Submission Policy nity outreach with SGA, of Science and Technolo- were the plans for Wel- The Dateline staff consists of students from the invited Gators to post gy. These positions remain come Week Fall 2020. University of Houston-Downtown who complete all pictures of them wearing open as well as senior The current pandemic tasks required to produce the newspaper, which masks and attending online senator positions for the forced the accommodation serves all UHD campuses. The opinions and classes and to tag SGA College of Public Service of most Welcome Week commentaries expressed within reflect the views of in social media platforms and University College. Events onto a virtual plat- the contributing writers. No opinions expressed in using the #virtualgators SGA also has 13 open sen- form. Furthermore, due to The Dateline reflect the viewpoints of the UHD, its hashtag. Similarly, SGA ator-at-large positions and Hurricane Laura, the only administration, or students. Vice President Leboriah is accepting applications in-person event sched- The Dateline reserves the right to edit or modify Chavez, announced that for assistant justice and uled for Welcome Week, submissions for the sake of clarity, content, grammar, gators could be featured in student defender. “Drive-in Movie at the or space limitations. All submissions become property a social media campaign Mario Torres, Bayou Lot,” has also been of The Dateline and may not be returned. by UHD’s Office of Stu- current Pro-them Speaker canceled. All paid writers must be currently enrolled stu- dent Affairs to “reinforce of the House, and “Shay” The meeting con- dents at the University of Houston-Downtown. the importance of wearing Tatum, Chief of Staff, said cluded as Meghana Karra, Press releases, story ideas, news tips and sugges- masks.” Students who that even if students are senator for the College tions are always welcomed. We encourage all students wish to participate must not accepted the first time, of Humanities and Social to contribute. post a photo wearing a they can re-apply again to Sciences, urged students to Any student interested in joining The Dateline mask and tag the social the same or a different po- attend general assemblies staff may request more detailed information sending network accounts of the sition. Nominees can also to voice out concerns and an email to the editors at editordatelinedowntown@ Office of Student Affairs ask the board to provide an obtain help. gmail.com. and include the #Mask- explanatory report in case “We’re always UpUHD hashtag in their of a rejection. here to provide support posts. Taiya Youngs, a and give the best answers Follow us on Social Media! In addition to nominee, said the reports to your questions,” Karra announcing the campaign, are important so that said. “Stay safe and take the executive board con- students can learn what care of yourselves. We firmed the nominations to improve on for future look forward to seeing of three senators at-large. endeavors. everyone back on campus Chief Justice Ameena “The door is not very soon.” Rasheed swore in Aamir closed forever,” Torres Merchant, Samantha Mos- said. @the_dateline ley, and Zizi Kanyabire as “Don’t ever give The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 Gator Life 3 Oh, the places you’ll go... or not By Sheryl Sellers *Updated as of Aug. will be available; Mon. – Thurs., 8 pointment at Step 2. such as 25. mobile ordering is a.m. – 12 p.m. It also drive by The what, preferred. Starbucks offers curbside pick- IT Equipment: document where, when, and will be open 8 a.m. – up: Mon. – Thurs., 12 Approved students deliv- why of resources 3 p.m. beginning Aug. p.m. – 4 p.m. and Fri., must make an ap- ery or availability and club available and open 24. At Step 2, lunch 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. pointment to pickup pickup. At Step 2, in sports are suspend- or unavailable and items will also be or drop off equipment person appointments ed. At Step 2 expect closed on the UHD available. Burger 713 Library: both in Step 1 and will be available. limited availability to campus can be found in the Cafeteria will Initially, the library is Step 2. locker rooms, per- in several places. be open from 8 a.m. only virtually avail- Career Counseling: sonal training, and It can be daunting to 1:30 p.m. Mobile abile, but they will Registrar: Counseling services massage therapy, plus to find particular ordering via Boost is move to limited avail- At Step 1, availabili- will remain virtual at virtual sports and information and in in the planning stage. ability for document ty will be limited to, first, then they will fitness. common student lan- Grab ‘n Go items retrieval and comput- specific, pre-approved move to limited avail- guage. will be available. er lab by appointment and essential issues of ability by appoint- Food Market: Following is Large combination only. Some weekend student support, such ment only at Step 2. The university is a list of available re- vending machines are and evening times as drive by document working to open the sources at the start of being installed for will be available at delivery or pickup. Center for Food Market. At Step the fall semester and more substantial item Step 2. At Step 2, in person Disabilities: 2, the Food Market then as the university choices, such as sand- appointments will be This service will will be open by ap- moves from Step 1 wiches and salads. Math Lab and available. remain vrtual at first, pointment only. (Aug. 24) to Step 2 There will also be Writing Center: then will move to anticipated on Sept. 8. vending machines for Initially, these ser- Financial Aid: limited availability by More and masks if needed. vicesare restricted to At Step 1, availabili- appointment only at updated information Dining: virtual availability, ty will be limited to, Step 2. can be found on the Initially, hours will Bookstore: though there are plans specific, pre-approved UHD website under be limited and only The bookstore is open to move to limited and essential for Sports and Fitness: the “UHD COVID breakfast and coffee for in-store pickup: availability by ap- student support only, Initially, only virtual Communications.” UHD helps manage student stress in pandemic

By Salvador Hernandez Academic Advising By Priscila Batres Counseling Services “What’s your adopt a virtual plat- ment to which you The beginning dent fees cover these student might have, major?” A typical, form. This does not belong. You will be of the fall semester costs, all currently even if it is not a cliché question that mean that the quality redirected to your is here and 80% of enrolled students are seemingly ‘big’ issue. many students or pro- of advice or quan- department homep- classes have been eligible. To set up As college fessors ask on the first tity of advisors has age; under “Current offered online due an appointment, call students, it is import- day of class. There diminished. It does Student” you will see to the COVID-19 713-500-3852 or fill nat to take care of are endless answers to mean more flexibil- “Advising.” From pandemic. This new out the form on the one’s mental health, this question, how- ity for students, and there, schedule an academic school year UHD Counseling the same way one ever, many students the appointments are appointment via the will be challenging Services webpage. would care for their cannot always pro- the same 30 minute “Navigate” website for many students, They also offer physical health. vide one. length as usual ap- set up by UHD. Make especially those that 15-minute phone ses- Asking for help takes Although a pointments. Students sure to log in with the are not used to taking sions on a first-call a lot of courage since student may not know have the option of same credentials used online courses. basis Monday-Friday mental health is so what they want to two formats - virtual for BlackBoard and UHD is offer- at 10 a.m.- 11:00 a.m often stigmatized. do, there is always and over the phone. GatorMail. ing multiple services and 2:00 p.m and However, taking a guidance available To schedule The services like counseling to 3:00 p.m.. However, step and talking to from UHD. Academic a meeting with an provided range from help students tran- it is best to make an someone when things Advising is a good academic advisor, be academic advising to sition to the “new appointment first, so get overwhelming place to find guidance aware of where to go. learning about special normal,” and have a that your session is can help many stu- that can be helpful to Like many services in programs or planning successful fall semes- scheduled and guar- dents succeed, not understanding your UHD your first stop is the route to your ter. anteed. only academically passion in life. to arrive at the UHD degree. Students can UHD Student All coun- but also personally, Due to landing page. Once even set up phone or Counseling Services seling sessions are as it helps to bring the outbreak of on the landing page, email reminders to offers five compli- confidential, and the peace of mind. COVID-19, UHD’s place your cursor manage their sched- mentary counseling counselors are open Academic Advising over “Academic”, ule. sessions per student, to listening to any Center was forced to and select the depart- per semester. As stu- type of concern a The University of Houston-Downtown 4 Gator Life Thursday, August 27, 2020 Faculty Spotlight: Professor Michael Duncan, Ph.D. By Sheryl Sellers After three at that time, repair- 330 BCE ‘On the Duncan find to be asked Dr. Duncan years, he returned ing computers. After Crown’ and Donald the most rewarding to submit text to the Professor. to his hometown to completion of his Trump’s October stint as president of publication. Ques- Writer. Researcher. attend the University doctorate he followed 10, 2019 Minnesota the faculty senate? tioned if he would Guitarist. Religious of Memphis where the academia path to Rally Speech” and He had the ability to consider that again, scholar. Music aficio- he earned his M.A. in land at UHD. “The Curious Silence learn and see the big he answered that it nado. Those are just Professional Writing Dr. Duncan of the Dog and Paul picture outside the “may be more chal- a few of the titles that followed by a doctor- teaches many courses of Tarsus: Revisit- silo of his department. lenging.” In our cur- characterize Michael ate in Composition in the English depart- ing the Argument of “I was able to rent environment he, (Mike) Duncan, Studies. Duncan ex- ment and has also Silence.” see how it all inter- and others like him, Ph.D., professor of plained this decision. taught three sections The Dateline sects and fits togeth- are stuffing 50 hours Technical Communi- “The reason I of a course in reli- was interested in er.” of work into 20. cations in the UHD pursued the doctorate gious studies. When Duncan’s tenure as He observed As indicated Department of En- was a combination of asked whether he had president of the facul- that in the six years at the beginning, Dr. glish. At UHD, Dr. working as a graduate a favorite course on ty senate, a term that that he served on the Duncan is quite a Duncan is also the teaching assistant, his lecture list, af- expired in August. senate, this past year musician and a mem- outgoing president of and having a much ter some thought he He explained that the as president (2019- ber of a small band the campus faculty more positive and responded, “I teach senate affords a way 2020 academic year) comprised of other senate. intellectual experi- a graduate course in to organize the facul- has been the busiest. faculty located on the This list of ence with campus in Rhetorical Theory ty in a representative They passed five 10th floor. He owns distinctions began graduate school than I and Criticism, it plays way and offers each resolutions during an impressive col- developing when did in my undergrad- to my strengths.” member an oppor- that year, and the lection of guitars and Duncan completed his uate years.” As a writer, tunity to speak up, summer months a poster of the great undergraduate degree So, why Dr. Duncan has con- act, and have a voice involved several Jimi Hendrix hangs in in Media Arts from would an individ- tributed to several ar- in the policies of the side-meetings and his 10th floor office. the University of Ari- ual with a Media ticles and publications university. Dr. Dun- ongoing negotiations. “Hendrix”, zona. He then moved Arts degree turn to on such subjects as can cast the faculty The many committees Dr. Duncan stated. “is to Boston where he academia? During the history of rhetoric, senate as a parallel that function within one of the holy trini- worked for several his doctorate course scholarly publishing, to an informal union. the faculty senate ty: Jimi Hendrix, Eric social media-type studies, he had a and technical com- Members are elected acted on such issues Clapton, and Jimmy startup companies revelation that the munication. With a by each department as an emergency plan Page.” with similar ideas to professors had a pret- passionate interest in and the number is for what became the Facebook. Though ty “sweet gig.” They writing and argumen- based on the number COVID-19 pandemic, the ideas were inno- had good ideas and tation studies, he has of department tenure faculty and staff com- vative, such as “put- concepts and seemed recetnly published ar- and tenure-track fac- pensation plans, and ting webcams in dorm to him that their ticles titled, “Knives ulty. There are also anti-racism, to name rooms,” he noted. career looked vastly in the Air: Argumen- five slots for full time just a few. None of the compa- preferable to what tative Arrangement lecturers. There was a nies exist today. he had been doing in Demosthenes’s What did Dr. time that the Dateline Dr. Duncan’s Favorites: Food: Steak, medium well

Movies: “The Empire Strikes Back” and “The Godfather”

Pastimes: Playing the guitar and drums, wood- working, chess, fencing, computer and board games, and playing Legos with his five-year-old son

Books: Science fiction; “Dune” by Frank Herbert and authors Robert Heinlein and Roger Zelazny

Music: Classic rock and blues rock Professor Michael (Mike ) Duncan, Ph.D. Photo credit: UHD website

The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 Gator Life 5

Tips for incoming Freshmen By Salvador Hernandez By Keven Balderas Where do I get my books that students Always check the The rapid attend Welcome Week The Dateline, and textbooks? want to resell. Ama- course content tab for spread of COVID-19 as much as possible, other student-run zon is another option any updates to course has forced most which takes place the organizations to This is prob- especially if a student work or due dates. institutions of higher first week of school. be kept in the loop ably one of the many is pinched for time, There is al- education, including It is a week-long on things going on questions bouncing since Prime Student ways maintenance go- UHD, to go almost series of activities, around the campus. around in a newly offers complimentary ing on in Blackboard fully virtual. For all virtual except for For example, follow- enrolled freshman’s two-day delivery. so it is important to those determined to the Drive-In Movie at ing @uhdmaincareer mind. The rule of save your documents go to college, it is UHD’s Bayou Park- on Instagram informs Before doing thumb with text- constantly. going to be an expe- ing Lot. This offers students about the anything, it is always books is to always rience like no other in freshmen the op- job fairs that UHD’s best to ask a few price match. There is Other Important modern history. portunity to connect Main Career Center questions. For exam- always the possibil- Tips: Following with other students, is planning to host in ple, are my textbooks ity of a book being are three steps that play games and meet September. so specific to the cheaper in UHD’s Additionally, incoming freshmen staff from the several Eugene Bernard, course that I have to Bookstore than in oth- there will be moments can take to start the departments serving Director of Student get them through the er places. Textbooks of confusion in a semester strong: UHD students. Transitions at UHD, bookstore, or can I get which include access course lecture, taking Welcome offers incoming fresh- them elsewhere? This codes such as, Cen- good notes is import- 1. Attend the Week is just one of men the following is a good question to gage or McGraw-Hill ant. Freshman Orienta- the many ways that advice: ask a professor before can only be purchased Check Qui- tion. Not only is this the Office of Student “Get involved acquiring course ma- new. In some instanc- zlet to find flashcards a great way to learn Activities seeks to on campus, and don’t terials. es, books with access from people who have about available cam- help students of all be afraid to ask for Now, let’s codes are specific to taken the class before. pus resources, but it levels and classifica- help. Our team of pro- get down to the nitty the course and have to It is a free online also offers students an tions to “develop their fessionals are always gritty of places to find be bought at UHD’s resource. If not, it’s opportunity to meet life and leadership ready and willing to textbooks. One of the Bookstore. alwaus beneficial to with an academic ad- skills…and enrich assist in any way pos- textbook providers for make your own flash- visor and register for [their] college experi- sible. We also encour- which many students Where is the materi- cards ato review ourse classes. ence.” age students to stay vouch, is Chegg, al for my classes? materials. There are two “There are positive and remain a company that in Another thing parts to UHD’s Fresh- numerous clubs and flexible. There are addition to textbooks If students to note, applications man Orientation ses- organizations, re- many uncertainties in also provides tutoring are not familiar with like Office365 are sions – Gator Ready search initiatives, our current climate services and help- BlackBoard, this is a included with UHD’s and Gator Gateway. study abroad opportu- with COVID-19. ful extracurricular quick crash course. student tuition. In the first segment, nities, honors pro- We are all materials. The other BlackBoard provides There will be freshmen will finalize grams and so much learning to manage upside to Chegg is students with a space many sleepless nights, enrollment, while in more,” Tremaine our new normal and that in comparison to to view course materi- but in the end your the second portion, Kwasikpui, Director together we can find other companies they al, grades and updates hard work will be they are given the of Student Activities, endless opportunities provide free shipping to courses. worth it. Welcome to opportunity to interact tells The Dateline. “If in the midst of our on qualifying orders, It can be eas- college, Gators. with faculty, staff and they need any help current circumstanc- competitive prices ily accessed through other new students. with getting involved, es.” that will save money UHD’s main page un- For any ques- reach out to the Office and typically include der “Quick Links” or tions about Freshman of Student Activities free gifts with each simply type bb.uhd. Orientation, reach at studentactivities@ purchase. edu in the address bar. out to the orientation uhd.edu.” Other plac- Many students make team at orientation@ es to look include the mistake of rely- uhd.edu. 3. It is a good eBay because there is ing on BlackBoard idea to follow the always the possibili- updates to keep up 2. It is recom- official social media ty there will be used with course work. mended that freshmen accounts of UHD,

The University of Houston-Downtown 6 News Thursday, August 27, 2020 A Glan ce Students return as pandemic rages a By Lauren Anderson r debate on this mat- the transmission rates wave, many parents o u

Health officials warn ter, while others all were low. Howev- have kept their stu- n

that the growing around the world pre- er, after reopening dents at home. How- d

number of COVID-19 pare for the reopening schools, these rates ever, Denmark has

t

cases pose unsafe of schools in phases. increased so schools shown no significant h

conditions for stu- In Wuhan, shut down once again. spikes in cases. e

dents to return to China, schools re- Israel attempt- South Korea G

l

school. Despite opened in May, but ed to reopen schools reopened schools in a

b these warnings, in students and teachers with the requirement a series of phases be- e early July, President had to wear masks, that students and staff ginning in late May, Trump insisted that pass through tem- wear masks and prac- but the process was students should return perature checks, tice social distancing. not as smooth as Den- to sanitize their hands also worried about the to the classroom like and enter and exit at However, this move mark’s process. Rules and shoes before implications of not in other countries. staggered times to was boycotted by included disinfecting entering; they must returning to school. Trump threatened to avoid crowding. In parents because of classrooms, wearing wear masks and eat Families say cut federal funding Beijing, authorities poor government masks, checking tem- lunch behind dividers. that because of the in- for the schools that do closed schools once preparation. India is peratures, and social The younger students decision within their not open in the fall. again in June after an another country that distancing. However, are even learning how -communities, they Even though outbreak in the city. is undecided about schools shut down to measure one meter have resorted to pull- Trump pushed force- In Shanghai, stu- whether schools will after COVID-19 cases of social distance. ing their students out fully for the reopen- dents and staff must reopen this year or increased among stu- Although not of school altogether ing of schools in the enter through ther- not. Summer break is dents in Seoul. every country can to homeschool them fall, he retracted his mal scanners when over, but schools in On the other reopen schools safely, or hire tutors. Howev- previous claims stat- schools reopened Israel remain closed. hand, South Africa many schools have er, while some have ing all students should after months on lock- Denmark has not reopened implemented safety the resources to learn return to school. He down. The walls are closed its schools in schools because requirements such from home, others is now supporting covered with posters, March but is now the parents have refused as face masks, hand are missing months the use of masks and explaining the steps first country in Eu- to send their children, sanitizers, and desk of education. Because acknowledged that to protect against rope to reopen them. and teachers are much shields. In contrast, of this, some families the pandemic would COVID-19, and glass Almost all primary opposed to the ideas others have limit- do not have a choice. only worsen before it walls divide the tables schools were func- of reopening. They ed class sizes and Some schools will improves. in the lunchroom, so tioning by April. argue that a crowded scattered arrival and reopen, while others “In cities or only two students can Strict rules were put classroom will put leaving times. Some will not. states that are current eat together. in place as students both the students and schools even restrict Pediatrician hotspots, districts Although returned. Students teachers at risk. the return to school Michael Rich, found- may need to delay China is taking steps stayed in small However, in to specific grades. er of the Center on reopening for a few to reopen with cau- groups, classes took Australia, schools Hybrid plans, where Media and Child weeks, and that’s tion, Israel’s govern- place outside, arrival reopening has differed students spend some Health said that al- possible,” Trump told ment is postponing times varied between between states. Some time physically in though students with- reporters. any reopening de- students, staff and schools have re- school and some time out medical problems Along with a cisions until Sept. teachers to enforce opened in May, while learning from home are not at risk for few other countries, Israel reopened a few social distancing. Out others reopened in have also been intro- the virus, like other the U.S continues to schools in May when of fear of a second June. Schools in New duced. Many schools people, they can still South Wales, leave the choice spread it to family. Australia’s to send students to “Kids in most popu- school to the discre- general are less lated state, tion of parents and symptomatic, but that only allowed legal guardians. also means they can students to Despite the be super-spreaders,” attend one precautions taking Rich said. “In other day a week place with the reopen- words, they can come and to arrive ing of schools, many back home as carriers at different parents still worry of COVID-19 and times. about the spread of not even know it, and While the virus and feel no one around them in Taiwan, that it is still unsafe knows it.” schools for their children to closed for attend school. Many only a couple parents, teachers, and of weeks in students are dis- February. traught about return- On Aug. 5, in Godley, Texas, elementary school students wear masks and wait in the gym for school to Now, stu- ing to school but are start. Photo Credit: LM Otero, AP dents are required The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 News 7 Hurricane Isaias leaves 6 dead, billions in damages By Lauren Anderson It then weakened you should take this Two people were restore power and a fire station down- Hurricane back into a tropical storm seriously, and killed, dozens of oth- make improvements town, sustained dam- Isaias left at least six storm after arriving make sure your fam- ers were misplaced, to prepare for the rest age from heavy rains dead, over 3 million in North Andros, ily is ready,” Cooper and ten homes were of hurricane sea- and flooding. with power outag- Bahamas, on Aug. said. destroyed as torna- son. Mark Treyger, There was a torna- es, and $4 billion in 1 before traveling The Nation- does tore through a council member do warning in the damages as it ripped through Florida and al Hurricane Center North Carolina. One who represents parts Wicomico County in through the East Georgia. It then made had been correct in person died in Penn- of Brooklyn in New Maryland as a tor- Coast from July 23 to its way to the Car- their predictions that sylvania as their car York City, expressed nado swept through Aug. 6. olina coastline and the storm would be was overtaken by concerns for future Vienna in Mardela Hurricane escalated back into a life-threatening and flooding, two other storms. Springs. In Charles Isaias was identi- hurricane as it ar- that people on the people died from fall- “When peo- County, Maryland, fied by the National rived near Ocean Isle East Coast should ing trees in Maryland ple ask me, are we emergency workers Hurricane Center on Beach, North Caroli- take the necessary and New York, and prepared for another rescued a man and July 23. Isaias pro- na, on Aug. 4. Lastly, precautions to keep another died from a storm? The answer is, woman after flooding duced tornadoes and it continued to travel themselves and their falling tree branch in ‘No,’” Treyger said. swept their cars away. deposited rain along along the East Coast families as safe as Delaware. “We’re better The woman was the U.S. East Coast as a strong tropical possible. The most Ross Dick- informed, but we’re found clinging to a over the past couple storm before settling damage occurred in man, a meteorolo- not better prepared. tree limb, and the of weeks, starting in down in Quebec. the east and north gist at the National We are simply man- man was on the roof North Carolina. Al- The governor because that was Weather Service of- aging crises day to of the car. Motorists though the storm had of North Carolina, where the hurricane’s fice in New York, said day, we’re not solving had to be rescued as started as a tropical Roy Cooper, warned eye was. Boats piled that Isaias brought the crises on a day to day roads flooded in the storm, it was soon that the storm could on top of each other, strongest winds since basis.” Philadelphia area. upgraded to a Cate- be dangerous no mat- decks facing the water Superstorm Sandy In Ocean Isle Further north, in Le- gory 1 hurricane and ter the strength were smashed, homes back in 2012. Beach, North Caro- high County, a mo- reached an intensity “Whether were destroyed, and “The wind lina, where the hur- torist was killed after of 85 mph and a pres- it’s labeled a tropical at least six people and flooding impacts ricane’s eye moved driving into high wa- sure of 987 millibar. storm or a hurricane, were killed. from Isaias will be over, many homes ter and being swept similar to what the were flooded, and downstream. In New city has seen from at least five houses York City, the Stat- some of the strongest caught fire. Eighty en Island Ferry had coastal storms. But miles north of where to suspend service, we haven’t seen one the storm first landed, because strong winds this strong in many in Surf City, about 30 and rain attacked the years,” Dickman said. people were displaced city, and barriers were There were due to a condomini- set up to protect Wall power outages, col- um complex catching Street and the South lapsing trees, torna- fire. The counties Street Seaport from does, and heavy rain. along North Caroli- flooding. There was even a na’s Southeast Coast In Bertie storm surge warning were the hardest hit County, North Caro- for a life-threatening with fires and reports lina, deputies visited flood of water coming of tornadoes, and people’s homes to A motorist drives through the tropical storm in Philadelphia on Aug. 4, 2020. Photo courtesy of from the coastline about two dozen shel- see if anyone need- Matt Slocum, AP in Ocracoke Inlet to ters were open due to ed help. An aerial Oregon Inlet N.C. the storm. shot by WRAL-TV Hurricane Isaias came Five adults showed rescuers when the East Coast and three children had looking through the was also suffering to be rescued after a wreckage to find from the pandemic’s storm surge, which those in need. effects. However, also caused damage “It doesn’t despite this, the East to the beachfront and look real; it looks like Coast suffered consid- caused electricity and something on TV. erable damage at the sewer facilities to go Nothing is there,” hands of the hurri- offline. Moreover, John Holley, the cane. in Suffolk, Virginia, Bertie County Sheriff, Power out- many homes were told reporters. “All ages spread through damaged by falling my officers are down the entire East Coast. trees, and there were there at this time. Over 3 million peo- tornado reports. Pretty much the entire ple lost electricity. Many buildings and trailer park is gone.” High winds cause a tree to be uprooted and falls on a fence in New York on Aug. 4. Image courtesy Utilities rushed to businesses, including of David Crary, AP. The University of Houston-Downtown 8 News Thursday, August 27, 2020 Derecho winds of 140 mph rip through Midwest By Sheryl Sellers Tornados, nary thunderstorm. in her condo as the cartwheel over houses as of Aug. 22. Clean- ed to continue for hurricanes, typhoons, In Iowa, straight line, intense finally landing in the up efforts are expect- more than a month. are all storms with original estimates of winds blew for 45 garage of a nearby which we are familiar. 100 mph winds were minutes, much longer home. But a derecho? From conservative. The than wind associated A derecho is the Spanish word for National Weather Ser- with a tornado. Asked estimated to occur “straight” referring vice data later deter- if she found safety, every one to two to direction, a dere- mined that 140 mph she explained, “I put years in the Mid- cho is a straight-line, winds ripped through on my bicycle helmet west, Ohio Valley long-lived windstorm Cedar Rapids, among and fled to a closet.” and Mid-Atlantic associated with severe the hardest hit com- The derecho states, primarily thunderstorms. munities. This wind tore through corn- between May and A recent strength would equate fields lying stalks August. Typically, derecho raced through to a Category 4 hurri- on the ground, and a storm is charac- Iowa, Illinois and cane. ripped up silos, terized as a derecho Indiana on Monday, Iowans had storage bins and hog if it travels across Some of the derecho’s damages. Photo courtesy of Tracie Hodina Van Pelt. Aug. 10 leaving a little warning as the buildings. It is esti- at least 240 miles swath of destruction severe thunderstorm mated that two-thirds with winds ex- in its wake. On Sun- gained intensity. The of the state’s corn ceeding 58 mph. day night, Aug. 9, a Storm Prediction crop was demolished, They are very hard thunderstorm devel- Center in Norman, and a loss of 3.5 mil- to forecast because oped in South Dakota, OK predicted severe lion acres of corn. the features causing grew as it thundered thunderstorms and Innumerable a derecho occur through Nebraska, some tornados form- trees were uprooted subtly. picked up strength ing in the area. There and crashed onto elec- Four deaths as it raged through was no indication that tric poles, cars, barns, have been attributed central Iowa, and these models would and homes. One of to the storm, three finally weakened as it form a derecho. the strangest sights in Iowa and one approached Ohio. By Cedar Rapids was an airplane wing in Indiana. More the time it descended resident, 77-year-old from Cedar Rapids than 8,000 of the on central Iowa, it Barb Eastland Mc- company, MidAmer- 200,000 Iowans that was classified as a Mickle, described ican Aerospace, that lost electricity, were derecho, not an ordi- windows shaking neighbors watched still without power Some of the derecho’s damages. Photo courtesy of The Weather Channel. New York Attorney General sues NRA By Priscila Batres On Aug. 6, that Lapierre used lawsuit can take years them but the GOP. the GOP this year. If this lawsuit will end, New York Attor- NRA money to fund before a final verdict, The NRA spends the NRA dismantles, but there should be ney General, Leti- luxuries like taking and although it may millions of dollars in the GOP will lose one new updates com- tia James, sued the private jets to the Ba- seem that dissolving GOP candidates’ cam- of its main lobbying ing in the upcoming National Rifle Asso- hamas multiple times. the NRA is unrealis- paigns and is expect- groups. months. ciation (NRA) to dis- According to National tic, it is not impos- ed to spend enormous As of now, it mantle it for all these Public Radio (NPR), sible. The NRA is amounts of money for is difficult to tell how years of corruption. Attorney General, Le- registered as a non- The lawsuit mentions titia James, also found profit organization in years of bribery and that the NRA has used the state of New York. mishandling mon- more than $64 million The attorney general ey of several NRA in the last couple of of New York has the officials, including the years as part of their authority to dissolve executive Vice-presi- financial misconduct. nonprofit organiza- dent Wayne Lapierre. Through the tions that fail to meet Rumors of decades, the NRA has the guidelines. Lapierre and other gotten more power Soon after officials’ misman- and influence in poli- the attorney general agement of money tics. made the statement and greed have been “We seek to dissolve to the press, the NRA going around for a the NRA because no responded that her ac- while. One of the organization is above tions “were politically many examples of the law,” James said motivated.” This ac- corruption that the during the lawsuit’s tion against the NRA lawsuit presented is announcement. This would not only affect Woman protests with a sign reading ”stop the NRA.” Image Courtesy of Alyssa Yung The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 News 9 Trump’s “shale revolution” plans arctic drilling By Stacey Gutierrez On Aug. 17, the nation’s reliance mer President of Shell ecosystem, which is in Northern Alaska – al Wildlife Refuge, the Trump adminis- on foreign oil. Oil Co. and author of home to endangered North Slope. found in Northern tration announced its This decision the book “Why We species like the polar As a response Alaska, spans 19 mil- plans to allow oil and is in line with Mr. Hate the Oil Com- bear and the arcitc to Alaska natives and lion acres and is only gas companies to drill Trump’s promises to panies: Straight Talk fox. Due to the ref- activist groups, the a part of the Arctic 1.5 million acres of restore the American from an Energy Insid- uge’s remote location House of Representa- circle which includes the Arctic National energy dominance er” disagrees with the and extreme winter, tives passed H.R.1146 Canada, Greenland, Wildlife Refuge in through deregulation Department of Interi- conditions increase on Sept. 12, 2019, the northern coast of northeastern Alaska. and innovation. Based or’s recent decision. the risk of a spill by which seeks to protect Iceland, Norway, Fin- The plan was on a 2005 assessment “We should leave the 75%, delay emer- the Arctic National land and Russia. The set in motion by the of Area 1002 by the Arctic National Wild- gency response, and Wildlife Refuge by Refuge was originally 2017 Tax Cuts and United States Geo- life Refuge alone. prolong environmen- prohibiting leasing protected in 1960 and Jobs Act, PB 115.97, logical Survey, The The amount of oil to tal remediation. to oil and gas com- has largely left un- requiring that at least Refuge is believed to be obtained from it is In 2006, BP panies. However, the touched for the harsh two 400,000-acre contain an estimated not worth the envi- Exploration Alaska Trump administration weather conditions leases of the 1002 7.7 billion barrels of ronmental and social was fined $25 mil- continues to relax and its fragile ecosys- area must be sold by recoverable oil. By cost,” Hofmeister lion after a pipeline regulations for oil and tem, which is home 2027 and authorizing comparison, the 1002 said. released 267,000 gas companies. While to endangered species oversight to the De- Area contains 27% The deci- gallons of crude oil the pandemic contin- like caribou, Arctic partment of Interior. the amount believed sions moved quietly into the Prudhoe Bay ues to negatively im- foxes, polar bears In a press to be held in the through then Republi- area and would take pact the energy sector, and walruses. Adam release by the Interior Permian basin, which can-controlled House over a year to clean it is still too soon Kolton, the executive Department, David is estimated to hold and Senate, but it has up. Following the to tell if any energy director of the Alaska Bernhardt, secretary 28.9 billion barrels of since fueled dissent investigation, it was executives will purse Wilderness League, of interior, confirmed oil and produces up to from environmental determined that the oil exploration in the opposes drilling in the approval of the 4 million barrels per conservation groups root cause for the spill Refuge. However, Refuge. Coastal Plain Oil and day. and Alaskan Natives. was environmental one thing is certain, “This is our nation’s Gas Leasing Pro- As the admin- These groups have corrosion and im- if oil production is to last great wilder- gram, touting Alaska istration plans to ac- spent years attempt- proper maintenance proceed in the Arctic ness,” Kolton said. as the “nation’s new cept bids on the leases ing to block oil and of the aging well. The National Wildlife “Nowhere else in the energy frontier” with by the end of the year, gas development in Alaska Department Refuge, enhanced oil five-nation circle po- the hopes of creating it is unknown if the the Refuge for fears of Environmental and gas governance is lar north do you have jobs, increasing reve- high-risk venture will that oil production Conservation, be- needed to ensure cor- such abundant and nue and minimizeing spark any interest. will cause irreparable tween 2010 to 2019, porate responsibility. diverse wildlife.” John Hofmeister, for- damage to the fragile reported 3226 spills The Arctic Nation- Remembering civil rights icon John Lewis By Riyasa Shrestha original “Freedom gomery Bus Boycott. Continued on page 12 On July 17, Fighters” who fought Later, in 1963 Lewis Representative John against racial and so- helped organize the Lewis, passed away cial injustice. During March on Washington at 80 years old, after this time, Lewis on the steps of the a 6 month battle with said that in order to Lincoln Memorial, pancreatic cancer. His achieve change they which boasted Martin death was announced need to engage in Luther King Jr. as its by a statement from “good trouble, neces- key speaker. the Speaker of the sary trouble.” On March 5, House of Representa- He was 1965 Lewis, along- tives, Nancy Pelosi. inspired by Martin side Hosea Williams, “Today, Amer- Luther King Jr. and led a march on the ica mourns the loss pursued racial ac- Edmund Pettus of one of the greatest tivism from a young Bridge for voting heroes of American age. As a student, rights and equali- History: Congress- Lewis organized ty. Armed police man John Lewis, the sit-ins at segregated discharged tear gas Conscience of the lunch counters during and attacked them Congress,” Pelosi the Nashville Student with clubs, bullwhips stated. Movement. and rubber tubing John Lewis, official portrait as U.S Representative, D-Ga. Image courtesy of United States House of Lewis was the Representatives In 1955, wrapped in barbed son of sharecroppers Lewsis led the Mont- wire. and a member of the The University of Houston-Downtown 10 News Thursday, August 27, 2020 Kamala Harris, the first of many By Jazzmin Jones On Aug. 19, intent to sell were ers and homicide would otherwise be referred to the state’s Open Justice which is Kamala Harris made instantly dropped to detectives refused to charged with felonies. hands-off policy a database for public history as the first misdemeanors, and speak to her or look The plan aimed to which prohibits the access to crime statis- woman of color to she did not prosecute her in the eye during help them get back attorney general from tics, including the use accept the nomination small possession meetings in which she into school and get intervening unless the of force in the police for vice presidency of charges. Harris re- demanded they solve stable jobs. district attorney has department. This the United States for fused to implicate the more murders in poor Niki Solis, a conflict of inter- database was a widely the 2020 presidential death penalty even neighborhoods,” a manager of the est. Despite being popular tool in police election. in what the public Silard said. “Instead, public defender office asked, she would not reform that is still in Harris, senator considered as gross- they addressed white considered Harris as conduct any outside use today. of California, will of- ly unjust situations. men; her subordi- a progressive district investigations into of- Harris has had ficially be part of the While this decision nates.” attorney. ficer-involved shoot- a challenging career. historical 2020 pres- appeared as admira- Harris also “Although we ings. It was a very As the first woman of idential race. While ble, her peers in the understood that the as public defenders unpopular move with color in most of her many people were justice department did exploitation of young may have disagreed the minority commu- previous positions, thrilled to have Harris not feel the same way. girls was a grow- with Harris at times nities. she had to climb on the democratic bal- In 2004, three ing problem in this or wanted more from In her second uphill to succeed. lot, others did not feel months after she took country. Instead of her office, there is term as attorney gen- Harris did what she the same. During her office, she refused prosecuting for prosti- no one who can say eral, Harris outlined believed was right at time as California’s the death penalty for tution, she treated that there was a more a plan to make police the time. Though ome first Black attorney a gang member who women in sex work progressive district accountable for their of her decisions have general, the public shot and killed Offi- as victims. Harris attorney in California actions. Bill AB-86 not aged well, she has has viewed some of cer Issac Espinoza. advocated for the re- than Kamala Harris,” would have required remained an advocate Harris’ decisions as Former Chief of Staff habilitation of young Solis said. a special task force for women and peo- controversial. Timothy P. Silard said people involved in In 2011, to investigate police ple of color. Most im- As district that The San Francis- sex trafficking and Harris took the office brutality cases. Harris portantly, Harris has attorney, Harris was co Police Department prostitution. During of the attorney gen- refused to endorse been and continues to considered progres- shunned her for not her time as district eral. At the time, such a bill because be a strong advocate sive for the time. pursuing the death attorney, Harris also California had one she did not like the for justice. During Harris’ term, penalty of such a implemented the of the highest rates idea of overstepping charges of possession respected officer. Back on Track pro- of police-involved on district attorneys. of marijuana with “Command- gram for youth who shootings. Kamala Instead, she initiated Elections expose complications for mail-in voters By Anthony Raul Ramirez meet one of the (NPR) found that day before the elec- Voter’s website fea- must be resolved with Amid pan- requirements: must New Jersey rejected tion, according to the tured a statement by urgency with less than demic, the U.S is be 65 years or older, about 65,000 votes report. The mail ven- Co-Director at CLC, 120 days until the looking to see if any have a disability, ex- that showed up late. A dor provided them to Danielle Lang. General Election.’” issues may arise from pect to be absent from USPS vehicle in New the post office about 6 “All eligible A group of full mail-in voting the country, or are in Jersey was set on fire p.m. on election day.” voters should be able seven minority voters, this coming presiden- jail. June 25, 2020 that At least 1,600 to have confidence along with the orga- tial election on Nov. In the March potentially contained ballots for Fox Valley that when they partic- nizations Common 3. presidential primary, mail-in ballots. were found to have ipate in an election, Cause Massachusetts Since the California reported Reporter Pat- not reached citizens their vote will be and MassVOTE, filed rise of COVID-19, a that over 100,000 rick Marley for The in time for voting. counted,” Lang said. a petition to sue the hot-button conversa- mail-in ballots were Milwaukee Journal The Fox Point vil- “As more New York- state of Massachusetts tion entertained the rejected because Sentinel covered the lage in Milwaukee ers rely on the state’s for failing to deliver idea to allow mail-in of applicant errors. difficulties of timely also had 160 ballots vote by mail system mail-in ballots. The voting for all citizens Over 18,000 mail-in delivery for voting accidentally delivered to exercise their right state recently allowed this coming presi- ballot applications in ballots in Wisconsin. to the wrong location, to vote during the citizens to request dential election. The Florida had errors or “Three mail leaving the residents pandemic, more face mail-in ballots, but movement to allow were received late. tubs containing 749 unable to vote. the risk of disenfran- the group cited a lack all citizens to vote New Jersey held an ballots from the Fox In July, the chisement due to their of internet accessibili- by mail cites results all-mail-in vote this Valley didn’t get to League of Women signature or other ty that creates a disad- from the states that June that saw rough- voters in time for Voters sued the New benign errors. New vantage for voters in allow absentee voting ly one out of every them to cast them,” York State Board York’s rejection rate the community. for all. Texas requires ten votes rejected, Marley said. “Apple- of Elections for the for absentee ballots voters to present an leaving 9.6% of the ton officials had given state’s current “er- is alarmingly high. absentee excuse that ballots being un- the absentee ballots ror-prone ballot veri- The lack of notice to only allows vote by used. An analysis by to a third-party mail fication process”. The voters and an oppor- mail for citizens who National Public Radio vendor on April 6, the League of Women tunity to fix errors The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 News 11 Biden-Harris accept nomination at DNC By Aansa Usmani *Updated as of Aug. Since the desired since Trump’s According other social policies. mantle systems that 25 beginning of his inauguration. to the AFGE web- According to their have setback progress During the campaign, Biden has Biden’s record site, former Attorney official website, they to some. Although Aug. 2020 Democrat- continuously spoken in Congress proves General of California, hope to tackle im- they themselves are ic National Conven- out against the cur- his ability to com- Harris, advocated on plemented systemic not perfect, it is better tion (DNC), former rent Administration’s promise with those behalf of unions and racism within the than the current solu- Vice President Joe stances and legislative across the aisle. As has prosecuted local legislation, institu- tion within the Oval Biden and Senator policies. He referenc- Vice President, he— companies that seek tions, and other places Office. Kamala Harris (D- es the infamous 2017 alongside then-Pres- to take advantage of of power, hoping to This year’s CA) accepted the “Unite the Rally” ral- ident Obama— was workers and their empower everyone election is significant, Democratic nomi- ly in Charlottesville able to lead the coun- wages. and allow more to especially noting how nation for the White as motivation for his try into economic Yet, her tenure succeed, without hav- there are individu- House. Nearly a year presidential run, reaf- growth and stability, as California’s At- ing their ethnicity or als wanting to make ago, both were pitted firming the statement leaving office with torney General drew racial background be voting harder within against each other of how he is “running policies that aim to criticism from the a setback, “ensuring specific areas. In the seeking their indi- for the soul of Ameri- assist the economy, left-wing, arguing that that everyone is treat- wake of this pandem- vidual Democratic ca,” tweeting, while also benefiting she frequently sides ed with dignity and ic, racial tensions, nominations, but they “White su- the American people. with police unions, has [the] equal op- climate change, and have now joined to premacists descended Senator Ka- and did not attempt portunity is built into other issues, this form one campaign. on Charlottesville mala Harris, Biden’s to overhaul known all of Joe’s domestic election will either be As the nation with torches in hand Vice-Presidential police departments; policies.” a referendum on the continues to struggle and hated in their choice, also has these criticisms have The current Administra- with the COVID-19 hearts. Our president extensive knowledge given her the nick- Biden-Harris ticket tion, or a continua- pandemic and racial said they were ‘very and experience under name of “Copmala” hopes to eradicate the tion of their policies. tensions, it is crucial fine people.’ It was her belt. In addition to on various internet divisiveness and po- Regardless of politics, to understand the clear then, and it’s being the first South threads, questioning larization within the it is crucial to partici- significance of this clear now: We are in Asian and Black whether her previ- country, implement- pate in the democratic pairing for the White a battle for the soul Individual to serve as ous record is best ing policies that will process (voting). House. Although of our nation, and we California’s Attorney suited for being Vice benefit all, and dis- both differ in terms of must win.” General and Senator, President, especially political experience Although his her experience speaks during an era of racial and viewpoints, they campaign has dealt for itself, receiving awakenings. share the common- with controversies a 100% rating from The ality of wanting to and blunders, it has both the American Biden-Harris cam- serve the American shown leadership, re- Federation of Labor paign hopes to adopt people and conclude silience, and openness (AFL-CIO) and the more progressive the Trump-era of the to change—qualities American Federation stances regarding White House. that the American of General Employees racial relations, people have longed (AFGE). imprisonment, and Running-mates, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Photo courtesy of Week.com

the upcoming gener- For those that are and curbside assist- Voting during pandemic al election, which is at higher risk for ed voting are two great for democracy, COVID-19 for any very viable options By Jazzmin Jones to the Texas Su- early voting officially but what about the reason, there is curb- for those concerned With the gen- preme court, the begins on Oct. 13. COVID-19? side voting. Curbside about COVID-19 . It eral election around “lack of immunity” This general election People are voting is available via is our right to cast a the corner, many to COVID-19 is not is crucial. Based on being persuaded into paper ballot or porta- ballot, and the nation people have concerns a qualification for run-off elections, vot- voting early, espe- ble voting machine. should be able to cast about voting during mail-in voting. These er turn out is expected cially in Texas. With Keep in mind that a ballot without fear- the corona pandemic. restrictions force to be record-breaking. USPS at risk of being best practice is to ing for their health Mail-in voting could most Texans to vote In the 2018 midterm entirely defunded and call the voting loca- and safety. This be a solution in many in person, which elections, about mail becoming de- tion ahead to request general election could states, but not in Tex- might be dangerous 432,180 democrats layed, mail-in voting curbside assistance. prove to have the as. In Texas, mail-in for some during the voted. According to is not considered via- This option is open to highest voter turnout voting is mainly for corona pandemic. an article published ble. However, almost everyone that seeks it. to date, so it is essen- seniors over six- The general by the New York every state allows While mail- tial to take the proper ty-five, disabled peo- election is on Tues- Times, this year, early voting. Wearing in voting may not be precautions. Wear a ple, out of the country day, Nov. 3 and Tex- over 955, democrats a mask and keeping available to everyone mask and practice military peoples, and ans are permitted to voted in the state- social distance should in Texas, but there social distancing! those in jail but still vote early. Early voter wide run-off election. be enough to protect are other ways to Check out Vo- eligible to vote. registration ends on Many more should from COVID-19 stay safe and cast a teTexas.com for more According Mon., Oct. 5 while be joining to vote in during early voting. vote. Early voting information. The University of Houston-Downtown 12 News Thursday, August 27, 2020 Remembering civil rights icon John Lewis By Riyasa Shrestha Continued from page 9 phone,” Lewis said. Obama said in a to speak out, to get In the deba- “But I felt statement after Lew- into what I call ‘good cle, a police officer when we were sit- is’ death that he will trouble.’” fractured Lewis’ ting in at those lunch “continue, even in his Former Pres- skull.The gruesome counter stools, or passing, to serve as ident Obama said, image infuriated the going on the Freedom a beacon in that long “Generations from nation and galvanized Ride, or marching journey towards a now, when parents support for the Voting from Selma to Mont- more perfect union.” teach their children Rights Act of 1965, gomery, there was a After the what is meant by which was signed by power and a force. killing of Houstonian courage, the story of then-President, Lyn- God Almighty was George Floyd in May, John Lewis will come don B. Johnson. there with us.” Lewis told ”CBS This to mind – an Amer- “Sometimes Lewis fought Morning”, “It was ican who knew that when I look back and against segrega- very moving, very change could not wait think about it, how tion and poverty. In moving to see hun- for some other person did we do what we 2011, he received the dreds of thousands of or some other time; did? How did we suc- Presidential Medal of people from all over whose life is a lesson ceed? We didn’t have Freedom by Ameri- America and around in the fierce urgency John Lewis, official portrait as U.S Representative, D-Ga. Image courtesy of United States House of Representatives a website. We didn’t ca’s first Black presi- the world take to the of now.” have a cellular tele- dent, Barack Obama. streets—to speak up, Activists paint streets of Laredo, “Defund the Wall” By Indira Zaldivar On Aug. 16, gagement with SGA, when our commu- Lives Matter street that are appalled with and what we want our anti-border activists Kassandra Aparicio, nity is experiencing murals painted na- the situation affecting future to be,” Gaytan of Laredo painted opposes the wall. a significant loss of tionwide. While the Laredo’s natives. said in a press release. “Defund The Wall, “There are more lives, our City has Laredo City Council Coalition member “We believe that if we Fund our Future” on a important issues to been urgently request- unanimously granted and filmmaker Karen say, ‘DEFUND THE street outside the U.S worry about than a ing state and federal permission for the Gaytan said in a press WALL’ the rest of Federal Courthouse wall with no pur- assistance to provide mural on July 27, the release that art has the country will pay in Downtown Laredo pose,” Aparicio said. essential ICU care mural was painted a power to convey attention to what’s in opposition of the “Health and education and hospital services without city funds. important messag- going on here, and federal contract that should always be to no avail,” Vielma Community leaders, es. “We believe that listen to what we, the awards $275 million prioritized.” said. volunteers, enraged public art can ignite residents of Laredo, dollars to build 14 No Border “The priority property-owners, and important conversa- want for our future.” additional miles of Wall Coalition said for our region should activists collected tions about what we border wall in Laredo, on a press release that be to fund a trauma funds from people value in our society, Texas. water for Laredoans hospital to The No Bor- and the endangered serve our der Wall Coalition Rio Grande are at tax paying said the mural sends a stake. constitu- message to Washing- “The wall ents’ needs, ton to reprioritize the threatens Laredo’s rather than funds and invest them only source of drink- funding in schools, healthcare, ing water, the Rio this out- affordable housing, Grande, as well as landishly and conservation of public spaces, private expensive the Rio Grande in homes, and ranches, wall. We Laredo. The multimil- and the city’s Master should not lion-dollar contract Plan for economic be losing projects construction revitalization.” lives due to start at the begin- Laredo Council- to lack of ning of Trump’s sec- woman Nelly Viel- funding.” ond term if re-elected. ma condemned the The Construction would government decision grassroots, displace many home- to prioritize funds for anti-border owners, businessown- the border wall over group said ers and a Catholic the needs of the peo- they were orphanage. UHD ple in the community inspired student and director facing a pandemic. by the On Aug. 16, activists and volunteers with the No Border Wall Coalition finished the street mural that reads “Defund The Wall, Fund Our Future” outside of the U.S Federal Courthouse in Downtown Laredo. Photo courtesy of No Border Wall of community en- “At this crucial time, many Black Coalition’s official Instagram page. The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 Opinions 13 Virtual mode is the new normal... or just a phase? By Jesse Fitzgerald Rodriguez What defines an all time high due through mid-Oct. On will everyone be tion as a vital tool to begin this academic normal when it comes to the virus. Millions top of that, Harris taught virtually? achieve the Amer- year optimistic about to education, and is of people are out of County Judge Lina The desperation, the ican dream. While the future, our educa- that education worth work, many parents Hidalgo and May- frustration, and the resources are limited tion, and the school risking our health? are contemplating or Sylvester Turner uncertainty of our ed- in this time of crisis, system, regardless of Since De- whether to send their agreed to keep Harris ucation lingers in the virtual mode is the hardships, obstacles, cember 2019, over children to school, county schools in wind like pollution new normal, and we and the challenges 200 countries have and meanwhile, this virtual mode. in the air; it is every- must remain optimis- that await us. been affected by disease shows no Universi- where around us, and tic and stay safe by Though COVID-19. Millions sign of slowing down ties and community we cannot even see it. all means necessary. schools around the of people live frus- amongst its enemy: colleges have been Judge Hidalgo Help someone. Teach U.S. are forced to trated, nervous and, the people. following the rules explained her deci- someone. We must adopt a virtual mode unsure about tomor- In all honesty, and taking necessary sions on July 24 on redefine and identify to cope with the row. education is the last precautions and safety KRPC Channel 2. the new normal in our ongoing pandemic, As the 2020 thing on one’s mind. measures. Can we “The last lives. We must stick citizens of the nation fall semester begins But no matter what, blame them? Do we thing I want to do is together. Even UHD’s don’t have to give up for students of all we will prevail. Yes, adapt? Are these man- shut down a brick and interim president, An- their goals or sacri- ages, who will study our educational rou- dates declared by the mortar representa- tonio D. Tillis, Ph.D., fice their education. online? Who has tine and status may Centers for Disease tion of the American seems to think so. They simply have to access to this virtual not return to normal, Control (CDC) ac- dream. But right now, “This is not find new (and virtual) shift and online ed- but the education ceptable, feasible, and we’re guided by hu- the way any of us ways to reach those ucation, not to men- system itself cannot healthy? Is our edu- man life.” envisioned the begin- goals. Who knows? tion, the new norm of disappear. Nonethe- cation system being So, we must ning of this academic Maybe this new nor- living, shopping, con- less, many still ask corrupted and man- not forget about the year. Working togeth- mal will prove to be gregating, working, themselves, “What is gled by big govern- American dream, er, however, we can even easier than the and educating one normal?” ment and education about one’s goals and keep you and your old one. another in an unstable Additionally, lobbyists? Is virtual aspirations, and, more families safe while environment? the HoustonPress an- mode constitutional importantly, our edu- making sure you stay What lies nounced that Texas’s or unconstitutional? cation. Any attempts on track for a suc- ahead, and will school largest school district, Given the to chase these dreams cessful semester and, ever be the same H.I.S.D. has taken facts, the statistics must be done safely ultimately, gradua- again? Undoubtedly, massive action and and the growing and cautiously. tion,” Tillis expalined no. The country has stated that its schools number of COVID-19 In these rough on Aug. 7. taken a dramatic turn. would go virtual cases, should students times, we must think We must stay Tensions are rising to beginning Sept. 8 return to school, or about self-educa- strong, stay safe, and A new age of dating for a new age generation By Khadesia Nedd In the age of deeper into online various benefits and tical would not want masked, unmasked, or around, you’ll find COVID-19, many dating’s myriad of roadblocks that make too many strangers entirely virtual dat- fewer date spots, with of us somehow find choices. COVID-19 the dating world huffing and puffing in ing. Different forms no air-conditioned time to date. Since the has wedged distance enjoyable. The social their personal space. of dating give extra movie theaters to days of video dat- between us all in our distance measures are Allowing pauses for insight into the dating open and no local ing, technology has familial, working, forcing an even pace those to agree to an setting during the concerts to watch. opened the floodgates and social worlds. in the popcorn brain’s in-person date: are pandemic. There will no longer of possibility. Choos- For as far back as need to match, meet, you willing to risk For those bold be quirky plays to ing a partner has been long-distance letters, and date as fast as the the virus for “Jacob, enough to immediate- see along with no commodified to the people have used a internet can connect. 28” who dared to take ly meet a stranger in nightclubs to dance likes of online shop- variety of mediums For people a poorly-lit selfie in a public place, maybe in. Supposedly, in ping, where simply throughout the ages. like me who prefer his cluttered bed? faced with another an attempt to avoid click and add the Today, many people a more even pace Furthermore, dating dilemma - where? crowds, many people people we would like have gotten creative for dating, you fi- applications like Restaurants of my are proposing to have to meet our virtual by taking advantage nally have another Bumble have new childhood are closing a first date at home - cart of matches. We of technology like excuse to take things social distancing pro- day by day. To date, to which I instantly have been living in an online video gaming slowly. Allowing file filters that allows bars, and nightclubs declined. All hope age of instant com- and live video chats. someone into your you to identify your across Texas are is not lost, for there munication at infinite Now more than ever, social bubble now personal pandemic entirely shut down are plenty of options degrees of separation, people are dating requires an extra preferences. You - including my go- available aside from and the pandemic remotely. This shift in level of commitment. have the options of to spot, Neil’s Bahr the classic indoor has only pushed us pace and platform has Even the most skep- socially-distanced and in EaDo. Searching dinner and movie. Continued on next page The University of Houston-Downtown 14 Opinions Thursday, August 27, 2020 A new age of dating for a new age generation By Khadesia Nedd Continued from previous page You will find plenty games, board games, world. Due to the like a show and tell meeting someone in connect and reflect on of space at your local and video games alike chat limitations in the of the books and person. That means our needs. Technol- park, drive-in movie that allow you to keep game, dates would gizmos around your you won’t have to get ogy will continue to theaters popping up the energy going for supplement the game room. Not to mention, catfished or sit at a enlighten us on a new across town, and even even the shyest dates. with video chatting or all of this is entirely cafe with a guy who avenue for intimacy, outdoor concerts are At the pandemic’s the classic phone call. safe and free. Frugal thinks testing your IQ such as video dating. becoming more wide- spark, a charming and I found that having a people can find fun is a fun activity. At the same time, we spread. Some of these quaint animal world phone call first helped and free alternatives The pan- face an unforeseen alternatives, such as of Animal Crossing test the waters and like music and games demic has impacted revival of archaic drive-in movies, may appealed to both breath the ice for con- to entertain your the entire world, but pastimes like drive- become trendy in the casual and hardcore versational chemistry. date. Then, of course, that does not mean in theaters. We are post-COVID-19 age. gamers alike. Wild- Video chats have been wallflowers can find that you have to stop at a fascinating crux Of course, there’s ly enough, many surprisingly engaging. an abundance of living your life. As of past and present, always virtual dating. people used this as You are able conversation kindling we navigate through bound to engender a If you’re a platform to hang to make eye contact, to stroke the date’s this effervescent new age of science, ready for the new age out with other people get a feel for their flames. Cautious world of change, we art, and life for years of dating, do try vir- by using an in-game unfiltered appearance, people like me can have the opportuni- to come. tual dating. There are character avatar in an and even do some add an extra layer ties to discover new live, multiplayer card aesthetically pleasing innovative activities of security before and creative ways to The weakest link - Pandemic healthcare for disabled By Michael Kowis which, among other population is signifi- are cared for during who cannot be saved. our economy, which The “weakest limitations, means cant, and the care for this pandemic. Often Starr County Memo- hurts the bottom line link” in society is at that my muscles are this population is of people like us are sent rial Hospital did this of the state of Texas. risk. We must take a tighter and conse- utmost priority. to group homes or are because they ran out This is what I mean stand for the health- quentially weaker In my research offered home health of ICU beds. As of by saving the weakest care of the disability than the average of how the health of aides. July 24, the hospital link. community now, person. I use a walker the disabled popula- In this sce- ran out of the 29 beds The weakest while we still can. everywhere and rely tion is being handled, nario, it appears that in its COVID-19 unit. link is the lack of We live in a on public transport I talked with Michael the nurses and nurse It could be argued stable healthcare of society that is com- services and family Young, Assistant assistants are doing that Houston hospitals the disabled and the prised of extensive drivers to get me Dietary Technician at everything they can may never reach that economic prosperity health checks. We where I need to go. Focused Care of Lin- to ward off this virus state, but it is a wor- of their guardians, undergo tempera- According to den, to discuss what currently. I should risome issue. What if parents and atten- ture-checks every the Center for Disease his post-COVID-19 make that point more the COVID-19 surge dants. I leave you time we enter a Control (CDC), 61 training as a Direct vivid though: as of overwhelms our hos- with the following public building. We million Americans Service Provider had Aug. 13, 31.2% of pitals and we have to image: Society is get swabbed if we live with a disability. taught him. ICU patients are implement healthcare like a chain, only as are feeling even the Of those 61 million, Young ex- either confirmed or rationing? It is the strong as its weakest slightest bit sick. 21.6 million did not plained that employ- suspected to have 215,000 persons with link. Shoring up the This is all fine if you have a regular helath- ees are required to COVID-19, accord- disabilities and their weakest link ensures have a car, your own care provider and did wear Proper Protec- ing to Community attendants that will that the greatness of house, and are other- not attend a yearly tive Equipment (PPE) Impact Newspaper. suffer. the chain remains wise healthy. checkup, due to costs. including masks, According to The According to intact, not just for the But what if This means 1 in 3 gowns, and gloves. Texas Medical Center the CDC, disabled upper-class or even you lived your life in disabled adults do not He also stated that (TMC) in Houston, persons are three the working class but a wheelchair for 99% have access to health- temperature checks they can free up an times more likely everyone. We should of your day? Or what care. In Houston are conducted reg- additional 504 ICU to have secondary save the weakest link if you are blind and alone, the disabled ularly. In the event beds. conditions that impact so we can come out forced to rely on the population exceeds that a patient con- We cannot their health. These of this stronger than closeness of others to abled 215,000. tracts COVID-19, the afford to be com- individuals are more ever. Stay strong, stay guide you through the The point of employee is required placent now. I say likely to be turned safe, and remember world? What if, for these numbers is to to self-isolate for 14 this because in Starr away if healthcare ra- that even the small- whatever reason, your illuminate the sober- days and not return County, Texas, tioning is implement- est person can have cognition is impaired ing fact that disabled until their temperature healthcare rationing ed. Consequently, the a major impact on and you do not under- people do not re- is below 100 degrees was implemented. parents or guardians the trajectory of this stand the severity of side in the shadows and the virus tests This basically states of these individuals pandemic. COVID-19? of outdated census return negative. This that the healthcare will likely be forced I live my daily statistics, nor are they news is good as it community has the to pick up the slack. life with a condition just a small part of relates to how per- power to decide who This takes hard-work- called Cerebral Palsy, a larger whole. This sons with disabilities deserves to live and ing individuals out of The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 Opinions 15

aware of, as my Mil- should I put up with “novel coronavirus.” Why I don’t wear a mask lennial daughter has any discomfort, Lastly, even suggested. She cannot much less impose if all the above were By Keven Balderas my expense for some will be found compel- be right...I brush my it on myself, in a entirely false, bur- I finally days before another ling. teeth too frequently country where I pay lesque and invented decided to go to the local curiosity went First, when and too vigorously to taxes, own property, for satire’s sake, grocery store myself viral, and made them snug, the mask have bad breath.) and work hard for a there yet remains last week, because forget about me. I supposedly blocks Secondly, if living? To force me the most irrefutable my wife can never now take great pride debris from going out, anyone will take a to walk around with a reason: that I am so find the Lorna Doone in my public outburst, and it from coming moment and turn to stuffy, sticky, smelly, stressed and struck cookies. When I ar- for which the Face- in. Along with that, the mirror when you sweaty, and unsexy with fear by all the rived, however, I was book groups I belong others around you put a mask on, it must mask on, in effect, is change and hardship not allowed in for not to have showered me exhale. They forget to be quickly and thor- to waive my rights, caused by the pan- having a mask on. I with hundreds of likes mention, though, how oughly observed that my personal liberties, demic, that refusing admit I got upset and and flattering com- uncomfortable it is it might as well be a my choices. To me, to wear a mask gives threw an angry fit, at ments, validation I wearing one. baby’s diaper on your wearing a mask that me a sense of control, one point overturning have long craved. It is, in fact, face. A mask not only is stuffy and sweaty, which, though just an a shopping cart next Yes, I hold amazingly uncomfort- covers my trimmed containing my own ounce, yet is gold to to me. that it is not fair that able to walk around six-day beard, but recirculated air is an me in such a period At first, I did I, or anyone else who with a mask on, also stings my del- infringement on my as traumatizing and regret it because I considers themselves which, besides leav- icate self-esteem. I right to comfort. uncertain as to the became a meme. A a law-abiding patriot, ing marks on one’s feel intolerably ugly Indeed, I have one in which we are recorded video of my should have to wear temples, it smells with a mask on. heard it from credible living. actions showed up a mask (or rather a obscene. (It can’t be Yes, so per- patriotic sources that in my peer’s feeds. muzzle) when unwill- that it is my own bad sonal appearance is the masks themselves My neighbors and ing to do so. These breath which I am be- not a Constitutional may be contaminating coworkers laughed at are my reasons, which ing forced to become right. But still, why us with the so-called

near the lips are avail- disease from reduc- The importance of wearing a mask able for those with ing. Their actions By Briana Garcia loved ones who com- make COVID-19 In our current and keeping one’s must be handled by who whine about how contaminants from the string and either wearing one makes municate by lipread- more dangerous for day, an age a new ing. Safety guidelines all of society, specif- social norm is waving being expelled. If cleansed, stored or one hot and difficult wearing a mask in disposed of correctly. to breathe in? The are still present with ically to those who through our society. It those with disabilities do not have the same changes our lives in- public and following The constant upkeep option to stay isolat- the six feet apart, in hygiene with cor- ed and inside one’s to ensure safety for resources available stantaneously because oneself and others. to them. Until prop- of the new guide- this will stop the rise rect handwashing pro- own home is still in COVID-19 cases cedures is a helpful available, along with Oh no, the er respect is given lines everyone has to mask is in the car, to mask’s usage, follow when out in and keep loved ones attribute to preventing healthcare individuals safe then, and there COVID-19’S spread. explaining how to and one has already the continuing rise public. COVID-19 walked the ten feet in cases will spike has informed a man- should be no issue This, along with stay- breathe intake does on the matter entire- ing home if feeling ill not decrease when a from the parking higher than ever, datory mask mandate spot to the doors, of which will merely in many states in ly. Its presence will or keeping a mask on mask is worn. Those significantly reduce when around people. with medical con- the store, that hold prolong the stay at America - Texas, be- flyers plastered all home orders and its coming one of them. the number of rising Yet some choose to ditions that weaken cases if the guidelines ignore these demands their immune system over it explaining lockdowns present The reason behind how a mask is man- around our nation. this order given to given with them are and choose their com- have been informed followed correctly. fort versus the safety to stay home and datory. Just as one Wear your masks, the Texan residents is walked to the doors most effective masks to keep the spread- The mask- of everyone around isolate to reduce the wearing will allow them. The mingling in risk of contracting one can take the to protect oneself ing of COVID-19 to steps back and place and others, keep the a minimum and to one to still partake society without masks COVID-19. If an out- in most activities feeds into the rising ing is needed, a mask the mask on without distance between each reduce this disease’s screaming obscen- other, respect others exposure. It has been without interference cases, and those who is required. Reach out whatsoever, and there act on it do not care to your primary care ities to the workers around you, keep informed to the public who are enforcing masks worn correctly by the CDC that are simple rules to what their actions can doctor on up to date follow when wearing do to our community. information regarding the mandate to keep and practice safe hy- masks aid in reducing other customers safe. giene and proper care the disease’s takeover one so no errors can If one does outings and the best be placed. The proper not feel comfortable masks to wear with Many are forced to and disposal for one’s in our communities. shelter in their homes masks. This pandemic When worn wear and care of a wearing a mask, then the conditions one mask are simple, to staying home and has. Masks are evolv- and have to rely on is merely beginning, correctly, the masks deliveries to prevent and those who don’t are extremely bene- have the item snug continuing to isolate ing daily, and new on one’s face while should be readily ones are available to the spreading of this practice their abilities ficial as the correct pandemic. Yet those to end it will only let material prevents any it covers the nose available to most purchase on many in mouth, if needed who cry discomfort. markets, masks with who see themselves it fester and grow into airborne contaminants higher prevent this a plague. from being inhaled to be removed, it What about to those transparent shielding The University of Houston-Downtown 16 Arts and Entertainment Thursday, August 27, 2020

daya snagged her first Director of a Comedy times. The Emmy’s in color Emmy nomination for Series. Sandra Oh The lack of By Jazzmin Jones Indigenous and quoted during a live Best Lead Actress in a was nominated for the representation for In the last few Asian populations are stream with Vanity Drama Series for her third time for her role Latinx, Asian, indig- months, Americans always overlooked Fair stating, “This role in HBO’s “Eu- in “Killing Eve.” In enous, and LGBTQ+ have called for in- as well. This year’s year we are also bear- phoria.” 2018, Oh was the first peoples only speaks clusion in the media. nominees are a step in ing witness to one of Billy Porter is Asian woman to be to the work that still Award shows like the the right direction, but the greatest fights for nominated for Lead nominated in a Lead needs to be done in Emmys and the Os- there is more work to social justice in histo- Actor in a Drama Actress category. the tv and film indus- cars have notoriously be done. ry, and it is our duty Series for his role EGOT win- try. It is nice to have been gatekeepers to This year 37% to use this medium in FX’s “Pose”. The ner Rita Moreno was so many nominees, Black people and peo- of the nominees are for change.” show is centered snubbed for her role but how many Black ple of color (POC) in Black or people of Dime Davis, around LGBTQ+ in “One Day at a and people of color the film and television color, a 6% increase director of “A Black people of color in Time.” Despite being will win? In 2018, industry. Often, actors compared to last year. Lady Sketch Show the 1980’s New York on the show for four only eight of the 38 are nominated multi- Reginald Hudlin, (HBO),” is the first City. Noticeably none seasons, Moreno Black and POC nom- ple times for the same director of “Boo- Black woman to be of the show’s central has yet to gain any inees won major act- roles every year and merang” and “House nominated for Best trans actors were Emmy recognition ing awards. In 2019 rarely win. While the Party,” will be the Director of a Vari- nominated. Hulu’s for her talent. This only three walked nominations this year first Black person to ety Series. HBO’s “Ramy” was the first year’s Emmy nomi- away with trophies. are an improvement, produce the Emmy “Watchmen” series Muslim- American nations only included there are still unrepre- award show. The tops the list with 26 show to be nomi- one Latinx nominee, All of the sented groups. There Television Academy total nominations, nated for an Emmy. Alexis Bledel, for nominees can be seen is a glaring absence acknowledged the including Regina Ramy Youssef, the her guest appearance on Emmys.com and of nominees from the pressure to diversi- King’s nomination for lead actor, gained on “The Handmaids the award show will Latinx community fy the awards. CEO Best Lead Actress in two nominations for Tale” which she has air on Sept. 20. despite having plenty Frank Scherma was a Limited Series. Zen- Outstanding Actor been nominated in of worthy candidates. and Outstanding and won multiple The games must go on - Sports in the pandemic By Alex Riley Four months the first domino in a season in the midst of before any players or offer options for the required quarantine after all sports shut string of events that a pandemic. team personnel could same game without before leaving and down in America, the would ultimately lead Major League test positive. the crowd noise in the returning), and must games have restarted to the postponement Soccer (MLS) also Resuming background, should they must constantly in a capacity never of the league. began the season play was no simple you prefer to watch it test for the virus. seen before in efforts Major League as COVID-19 was feat, but every league that way. Prior to begin- work around and Baseball (MLB), becoming prominent. that experienced dis- The MLS ning the tournament, throughout the ongo- which was original- All teams played only ruptions was able to was the first of the 10 players and 1 staff ing pandemic. ly slated to begin 2 games before the successfully recom- American profes- member of the FC On March 11, on March 26, only league was suspend- mence, though some sional sports leagues Dallas team tested COVID-19 proved 2 weeks after the ed on March 12. For much more effective- to resume play with positive, as well as that no one is immune positive COVID-19 MLS, this is the first ly than others. All the a tournament enti- several members of to its effects. That results from the NBA. time a season has league, however, were tled “MLS is Back,” the Nashville SC night, the medical In light of this, MLB been postponed since faced with the same which premiered on team. This forced an staff of National Bas- delayed their opening the attack on 9/11. reality upon restart: July 8. The tourna- immediate expulsion ketball Association’s day to Jul. 23, with there is no way they ment launched in from the bubble. (NBA) franchise, a shortened season When National Hock- could commence with a bubble-format in Aside from the initial Oklahoma City Thun- of just 60 games, as ey League (NHL) fans in the bleachers. which all the leagues hiccup with 2 of the der (OKC), rushed opposed to the usu- suspended play due Initially, this teams were contained 26 teams making up onto the court just al 162. To say that to the pandemic, the was an obstacle that to a site in Orlando the league, the tour- moments before tip- MLB has navigated league was only 3½ seemed impossible to on grounds owned nament proved to be off between the Utah this tumultuous delay weeks from complet- remedy with any sort by Walt Disney highly successful and Jazz and the OKC with ease, would be a ing the regular season of subtlety. Fortunate- World. This “bub- went on to comple- Thunder. The medical complete farce. The and beginning the ly, European soccer ble” mandated that tion on Aug. 11, when team spoke with the leage dealt with labor Stanley Cup Playoff began before any all team players and the MLS crowned the referees who imme- disputes between games. NHL’s rapid sports in America and staff members stay Portland Timbers as diately called off the players and owners response to growing provided a sample for in hotels inside the the winner. game. Later, it was regarding salaries for concerns surrounding how fans would react bubble. They were released that a mem- the shortened season, the spread of the virus to crowd noise being not allowed any con- ber of the Utah Jazz in addition to con- proved beneficial virtually pumped tact with personnel had tested positive for cerns about how to as they were able to into the broadcast. outside the bubble COVID-19. This was safely commence the suspend the league However, they did (unless they undergo Continued on page 17 The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 Arts and Entertainment 17 The games must go on - Sports in the pandemic By Alex Riley Continued from page 9 world, no fans have back to July 29. As the top 9 teams in the public health proto- crown a tournament Major League been allowed in of publication, MLB east played eight reg- cols were satisfied. champion, telling Baseball returned to attendance. has had to postpone a ular season games to As of the pub- us that sports can be action on Jul. 23. In However, total of 33 games due determine seeding for lication of this article, played in this uncer- light of the delayed baseball has dealt to COVID-19. NBA, the playoffs. And like the NBA would have tain and tumultuous start, they reduced the with several hick-ups the league that has every other league, no gone four consecutive time. If the proper season to 60 games to date, including a served as the catalyst fans were physically weeks without a sin- safety measures and limited travel by mass outbreak on for the pandemic’s at the games. Howev- gle positive test. This and precautions are having teams play the Miami Marlins eaffect on the sport- er, the NBA implored is a clear indicator the exercised. Sports most of their games of at least 17 players ing world, returned a tactic of allowing process the NBA is fans, like myself, only against division rivals testing positive for on Jul. 30, in unique fans to appear virtual- undergoing to finish hope that the NFL is and teams in close COVID-19, caus- conditions. Instead ly on screens around their season is highly paying attention and geographic proximity. ing the franchise to of the original 30 the court in order to effective. preparing to do what For safety pur- postpone several teams, the league was add to the atmosphere Currently, it takes to safely and poses, every player games. The St. Louis reduced to 22 teams of the game. the NBA is playing successfully play the and coach for every Cardinals followed and they all played Upon arrival, out their postseason, 2020-21 season. franchise is being suit with 17 players in a bubble-format in of the 302 players, 16 MLB is continuing tested daily. Like and 10 members of Orlando, FL. tested positive. Those the grind that is the other professional the coaching staff The top 13 players remained in regular season, and leagues around the testing positive dating teams in the west and isolation until the MLS was able to Trump sets the clock against TikTok By Lauren Anderson that “The spread in nese-owned app by rosoft would have media app. argued that there was On July 31, the United States of Sept. 15. “I set a date to pay the U.S. Despite a lack of due process, President Donald mobile applications of around Sept. 15, at government to gain this, experts say the which is safeguard- Trump told reporters developed and owned which point it’s going ownership of the demand for payment ed in the 5th and that he would ban by companies in the to be out of business,” Chinese-owned from the deal would 14th amendments. the social media app, People’s Republic of Trump told reporters. app ultimately. The be considered illegal. They also stated that TikTok, in the United China continues to “But if somebody, Treasury Department However, Microsoft TikTok spent almost a States. threaten the nation- and whether it’s Mi- has yet to respond confirmed both inter- year trying to engage The Trump al security, foreign crosoft or somebody to inquiries about ests in the purchase of with the U.S. gov- administration and policy, and the econ- else, buys it, that’ll be how payment can TikTok and in giving ernment to discuss lawmakers believe omy of the United interesting.” be received if a deal up government com- its concerns. Godwin TikTok is a securi- States.” Trump then Microsoft is made. However, pensation. stated that the legal ty risk because it is ordered ByteDance to showed interest in through the CFIUS If Microsoft challenge would be owned by a Chinese strip itself of the data buying the U.S. President Trump has ends up not purchas- focused on worker company called obtained from TikTok portion of the app, the authority to either ing the app, TikTok rights rather than ByteDance. Because users in the U.S. and announcinged it pressure for a sale or and its U.S. employ- national security. both the republicans TikTok has through a blog post. force the company to ees plan on taking the “TikTok is and the democrats around 65 million to Trump later con- stop operating. Trump administration loved by 100 million worry about the 80 million users in the firmed the news and The CFIUS to court to fight the Americans because it security risk, the U.S. The American stated that he and the has focused its at- ban. Mike Godwin, is a home for enter- Democratic National Civil Liberties Union, CEO of Microsoft, tention on looking the lawyer who rep- tainment, self-expres- Committee (DNC) a nonprofit advocacy Satya Nadella, spoke into Chinese invest- resents the TikTok sion, and connection,” warned people against organization, stated about it. Microsoft ment deals with U.S. employees, stated that a TikTok spokes- using the social media that banning the app and Bytedance have influence. ByteDance the legal challenge to person said. “We’re app. President Trump will go against free- given a formal no- did not ask for autho- the executive order motivated by their stated that he would dom of expression tice of their desire rization from CFIUS would be separate passion and creativi- sign something soon and will be “techno- to purchase to the when it purchased from the lawsuit from ty and committed to and rejected the deal logically impractical.” Committee on For- Musical.ly in 2018, the company who continuing to bring that Microsoft would Trump later eign Investment in which is why TikTok owns the app. joy to families and buy TikTok. modified his stance the United States is currently being It is unclear meaningful careers Trump signed on the subject. He (CFIUS), which will investigated. Because if the executive order to those who create an executive order stated that rather give Microsoft the TikTok has increased will make it illegal on our platform as on Aug. 6, giving than immediately ownership to operate in popularity, many for TikTok to pay its we build TikTok for ByteDance 45 days banning the app, he TikTok in the U.S., were worried that the workers in the U.S. the long term. TikTok to sell the app before would only ban it if Canada, Australia, Chinese government and it would prohibit will be here for many it is banned in the Microsoft or another and New Zealand. could gain informa- any transaction with years to come.” U.S. Trump’s exec- American company Trump then tion on U.S. citizens TikTok and ByteD- utive order stated failed to buy the Chi- insisted that Mic- through the social ance. The employees The University of Houston-Downtown 18 Arts and Entertainment Thursday, August 27, 2020 Reviews and Recomendations “Honey Boy” By Salvador Hernandez a non-linear fashion screenplay, written represent positive and James, gives him movie was an enter- in which the story by Shia LaBeouf who negative aspects of the guidance needed taining watch and What makes switches between the also stars as Otis’ masculinity with Otis for him to transition an astonishing piece a man a man? This protagonist’s present father James Lort, has trying to break from from a boy to a man. of cinematography. question has been and past, operating in a profound connec- the immaturity of Otis sacrifices his The film’s emotional examined in various flashbacks of mo- tion with the film. It his father in order to past to redeem him- connection is thor- films, amongst them ments with his father, is a semi-biographical become a full-fledged self. Letting go of his oughly felt through Richard Linklater’s a recovering alco- look toward LeB- adult. For example, demons provided the LaBeouf and Noah “Boyhood” and Barry holic, ex-felon and eouf’s childhood and throughout the film view that becoming Jupe’s interactions Jenkin’s “Moonlight”. Vietnam veteran. his run-ins with the James’ masculinity a man means taking on screen and are In this instance, Alma The film law. At its heart, the comes from a place responsibility for your beautifully captured Har’el’s “Honey Boy” showcases beauti- film is a dark and of immaturity as he is actions and letting by the chemistry answers the question ful cinematography. heart wrenching look unable to cope with go of childhood. He between the breakout by linking the rela- Though the shots used into the cycles of pain his emotions of guilt comes full circle, no performance of Noah tionship between an may not be the most and confusion expe- and frustration. His longer lingering in Jupe and the veter- individual’s child- experimental, it is a rienced in childhood emotions from his the man-child men- an actor. The movie hood and their pres- good watch. Director and post adolescence. time in the war and tality which his father will certainly leave ence as an adult. The Alma Har’el creates Amongst the alcoholism results in inhabited. Rather his audiences feeling the plot revolves around a well-paced and themes in “Honey psychical and ver- willingness to sacri- sense of self-discov- Otis’ mandatory stay visually captivating Boy” of self-discov- bal abuse towards fice has stripped him ery that Lucas learned in a rehabilitation film using neon and a ery, redemption and his son. Otis on the of his boyish imma- through his journey facility after driving plethora of colors to loss, masculinity sits other hand develops turity and has led him of redemption and his under the influence expertly illustrate the at the focal point a longing for a true to embrace mature pursuit of righting his and resisting arrest. madness and lunacy of the film’s narra- father figure to bond manhood.. wrongs. The story develops in seen on screen. The tive. Both characters with, one who, unlike Overall, the

fresh perspective on one as they uncover viewers. Anohana was Five Anime series for fall life and cohabitation hidden secrets from directed by Tatsuyuki By Khadesia Nedd in nature. Madhouse their shared dark Nagai and based on In the days of pressing through the The story darkens as produced this anime pasts and the events the novel written by yore, anime fans had selections than you the parasite becomes nearly 20 years after leading up to present Mari Okada to rely on Toonami do binging a show. To more ubiquitous and the original manga day.Confronting the For those broadcasts or unoffi- make it easier, here destructive. Shinichi ended which results past is never an easy looking for something cial and sketchy web- are several titles you must sacrifice his in a complete and sat- feat. Reconnecting more lighthearted sites filled to the brink should be watching. normal life for the isfying anime. It was comes as a serious and fun, there’s the with pop up ads and This is a primo array good of humanity. directed by Kenichi obstacle. However, classic “Cardcaptor phishing links. How- of anime as a jumping As he develops better Shimizu and written they must reckon with Sakura”. Originally ever, you can now point for a nightly strengths and senses, by Hitoshi Iwaaka. each other in order to released in 1997, this find many of these Netflix binge. other parasites begin “Anohana: move forward with 90s classic is filled titles on Netflix and For the horror to detect him and The Flower We Saw their lives. This par- with the monsters of other streaming sites. lovers, try “Parasyte make attempts on his that Day” is a great ticular title goes past the week that delve There are few stream- the Maxim”. The life and others. Fol- tear-jerker. This su- sentimental angst and into more complex ing sites that missed 2014 film is about low as a young boy pernatural drama fea- provokes deep reflec- issues as the series the opportunity to Shinichi, a high turns into humanity’s tures a character re- tion in how people develops. This series feature popular anime schooler that gets last hope as he works visiting his old friend relate to each of the is aimed towards a titles such as Bleach, infected by a sentient with the parasite in group after becoming characters in their younger audience, but Naruto, and Dragon parasite that can com- a symbiotic rela- a shut in. A childhood separate stories and can be enjoyed by all. Ball Z. In fact, there municate telepath- tionship. The show crush pays him a how they converge. This anime captivates are so many titles that ically. While most focuses on themes visit and settles in his The characters endure audiences with a cast you may get what is parasites take over such as self-preserva- home and life. He is a substantial amount of colorful characters called “Netflix syn- the brain, this para- tion, environmental forced to confront the of grief and guilt that and charming dynam- drome” where you site only takes over issues and the value rest of his estranged can provide a pro- ic relationships. spend more time the hand, leading to a of empathy. It gives a friend group one by found catharsis for Continued on next page oddball partnership. The University of Houston-Downtown Thursday, August 27, 2020 Arts and Entertainment 19 Five anime series for fall By Khadesia Nedd Continued from previous page trust.With 72 clow on a boy aside from anime cannot be sole- classic legend. A boy to stop watching as This is a card monsters to the main character ly defined by its giant realizes his destiny is the 25-episode series magical girl clas- face, the series does a because it was not robots. From the first bigger than his small successfully threads sic where Sakura is great job staying con- believed young girls episode, viewers will dreams to follow his together an epic tale tasked with collecting sistent and interesting would enjoy an action know if this is the friends and it grows of a young boy’s path 72 clow cards that with its challenging packed show. Howev- show for them. The and grows to greater to revolutionize his resemble tarot cards. foes. For this camp er, that proved to be series starts with a heights. Simoun starts world and the world The magic of the classic, the show is false as many people small and soft-spoken off small and it is of others. Gainax show is so simple and known for deviating of all genders grew underdog that literally hard to believe that he produced this original straightforward, but from the standard up loving the show. starts in an under- is the main character anime that proceeds the characters learn heteronormative rela- “Cardcaptor Saku- ground village. There, as he is surrounded by any derivative works about themselves tions and innocently ra” was directed by he meets Kamina, a people much louder and succinctly encap- and the world around touching on contro- Morio Asala and was loud-mouth champion and more colorful. sulates the beginning, them in ways that versial topics. Origi- based on a manga by of dreams and ad- But that is the point middle and end. help them change and nally, when the Unit- the creative collective venture ready to take of the series. We develop. Enemies be- ed States syndicated known as CLAMP. his friends to greater watch him grow into As of Aug. come friends, friends the show, it heavily If looking heights. Literally. The someone bigger than 25, all of these titles become lover, and the censored any mention for something inspi- series is as chaotic his body and some- can be accessed on characters learn more of queer relationships. rational and boldly as it is simple and one who cannot be Netflix. and more about who In fact, the series was aesthetic, watch rings true with many ignored. After the and what they should begun by focusing “Gurren Lagan”. This viewers as an instant first episode, it is hard “On the Trail: Inside the 2020 Primaries” By Aansa Usmani “On the Trail: and Jasmine Wright. a week.” was asking questions works remotely with Overall, the Inside the 2020 Pri- Although it is dated to Similarly, or being booed at the network, juggling documentary was maries” gives insight the beginning of the presidential candidate Trump campaign ral- filming and cam- well executed and into how media pandemic lockdown, Elizabeth Warren lies, Collings stated, paign coverage while conveyed its message distribution is ensured it shows the impor- em-bed Daniella Diaz “Trump’s the only helping her son with of the importance of through the work tance of women in mentions how her life president I’ve ever virtual education. women in political of internal media media and how their is “[running] around covered...when [he] Towards the media. Were it not for spokespeople and work helps inform the with a twenty-pound goes after the press... end, it showed how em-beds, campaigns how vital information general public. camera, seven days it’s definitely hostile. the news landscape would be shown made available to It also gives a week, 24 hours a You still have to do has had to adjust to through its outward the public. It is more insight into the lives day...documenting ev- your job.” Covering lockdown measures. appearance rather than just a political of em-beds and how erything a presidential the White House has Some anchors by than the work that campaign documen- their assignments candidate is doing.” been a challenge, yet filming from home or occurs behind the tary. It highlights the meant constant When Klobu- Collins continued other methods to en- scenes. Although this importance of women change, whether it be char (D-MN) decided to report and com- sure social distancing documentary could be in media. Whether as moving or residing in to end her bid and ment, often showing and limiting further geared towards polit- producers or camera hotel rooms to con- planned to endorse up at the near daily spread. For the em- ical or media junkies, operators, internal tinue their campaign Vice President Joe COVID-19 briefings. beds, it was a sudden it gives insight into media people with- coverage. In the first Biden, Wright was the Dana Bash’s shock. Previously, women’s roles when in a campaign (also few scenes, presiden- first to confirm and role is briefly men- they had been active covering significant known as “em-beds”) tial candidate Amy dictate Klobuchar’s tioned, touching on within campaigns. events. It shows that are important roles Klobuchar em-bed plan going forward. her personal life and Once ended, they the field itself has that allow for further Jasmine Wright men- Additionally, her current position were left with a sense become more diverse distribution of media tions how her life is Diaz gave full cover- at CNN. She give an of anxiety about their and inclusive. How- content. continuously evolving age of Warren’s press insightful message of careers. For now, ever, much needs to The documen- and how moving is conference discussing hope to women cover- they are continuing to be reformed to ensure tary follows the lives a given within her the termination of her ing politics (pre-pan- report on campaign more individuals can of women from CNN field of work. Wright political campaign demic) and how matters for Joe Biden, have opportunities. ranging from Chief mentions how her and the path ahead. the field has shifted instead using online Political Correspon- work field has led her The documen- towards diversity and reports rather than The documen- dent Dana Bash and to sublet her D.C. res- tary briefly touches inclusivity. Bash stat- physically following tary, “On the Trail: White House Political idence until Novem- on Kaitlan Collins, a ed, “I know how hard the candidate. These Inside the 2020 Pri- Correspondent Kait- ber. She stated “With CNN White House it is to be a woman measures could be- maries,” is available lan Collins to Cam- this job, my life is Correspondent, and in this business. You come the new norm exclusively through paign Correspondent just so transitional... the struggles she had can have it all, but not for covering political HBO MAX. Kyung Lah and em- on the road for six, to endure as a nation- always at the same campaigns, but time beds Daniella Diaz sometimes seven days al reporter. Whether it time.” As of now, she will only tell. The University of Houston-Downtown 20 Arts and Entertainment Thursday, August 27, 2020 “Mexican Gothic” Office Gossip in 2020 By Keven Balderas By Laura Dunn Set in a 1950s Her wit helps the reader picturesque country- along the way because side in a fictitious town no matter what happens, in Mexico, “Mexican it is hard to lose faith in Gothic” focuses around Noemí. aristocratic Noemí as Fans of anything she journeys to check up thriller, suspense, horror on her newlywed cousin or mystery will find this now living in a house an absolute gem of a known as High Place. book. Ancestral secrets, High Place has a deep, ghosts, medicine ladies, dark past that is much twisted doctors and more more complicated than are all condensed into what meets the eye. 301 pages of page turn- The main charac- ing intensity. ter Noemí is extremely Once picked up, likeable and perhaps it is almost impossible ahead of the times for to put back down. This the period. She is chain book invites the reader smoking, sassy and ex- into the strange universe tremely intelligent. Her that has been created. But ‘take no bull’ attitude is be warned, you may need necessary for everything to sleep with a light on Hey, did you hear about what happened during Monday’s meeting? Matt’s webcam... High Place reveals to her. for a night or two. yea, that Matt, the one from Accounting...well, this guy’s webcam fell down, and guess what? He wasn’t wearing any pants! Well, but that makes three of us, don’t it, pal?

Lamar have been us- “no trouble.” This tistically, this decision things. We are joy and “Black is King” ing elements from this phrase is arguably a might be deliberate. beauty and strength. By Jazzmin Jones genre in their music. driving force in both In “The Lion King”, So, the way Simba is songwriters, direc- In a country In this film, however, films. Yet, “Black Is Simba loses his sense learning about who he tors and composers where Black skin the complete sound King” fails to use any of culture because he is, we are collectively came from various was outlawed for is presented creative- reference to Tanzania, left his home at such rediscovering who we different backgrounds generations, Beyon- ly and intriguingly. Kenya, or Uganda, all a young age. Black have always been.” and cultures. Tradi- cé’s “Black Is King” The dance sequenc- west African coun- Americans suffer “Black Is tional African danc- is monumental. The es match perfectly tries where this lan- a similar journey. King” is a reference es inspired many visual album is a with the numerous guage is widespread. During slavery, guide to African of the sequences in companion piece to rhythms. Understandably, Af- Africans were taken culture from a Black the film. The back- the Disney remake The criticism rica has 54 countries, from west African American perspec- ground art decor is of “The Lion King” for this movie comes and it would be tough countries like Nigeria tive. The discon- full of genuine west (2019). The film from East Africans. to include every and Mali and brought nect between Black African art piec- loosely follows the While everyone can country’s culture and to the Americas to be American culture and es, some borrowed story of a young agree that the visuals traditions. slaves. Most African African culture stems from Tina Lawson, African prince cast were outstanding, it Another Americans will find from slavery and Beyoncé’s Mother out into the world is not entirely per- source of criticism that they have roots oppression. “Black (RollingStone.com). who must find his fect. East Africa was comes from peo- in some of those Is King” seeks to There are voice-over way back to his home extremely underrep- ple who are tired of western countries. prove that Black can clips from “The Lion kingdom. West Afri- resented. While parts seeing African culture Hannah Bleacher, be beautiful, divine King” (2019) movie can cultures inspired of the visual album represented by paint- the production de- and graceful. This that aid in the audio art for the album. The were filmed in Kenya, ed white faces and signer for “Black visual album is for storytelling. Beyoncé film showcases and there are no Ken- African print. Nige- Panther”, spoke to future generations is quoted as saying, amplifies artists from yans featured in the rian college student the LA Times, say- to see how two very “The soundtrack is a Nigeria, Ghana, Mali, soundtrack or film. Grace Bassey spoke ing, “We were told different cultures can love letter to Africa.” South Africa and The movie is pack- to the Washington that our culture was combine and be great. The use of Cameroon. aged as the sound Post in an interview ghetto and bastard- It is a pathway back west African artists Overall the of Africa, yet leaves stating, “There is so ized, and that’s just to the original roots of brings a new sound artistry is nothing out a culture that is much more to Afri- who we were. And Black Americans. to the mainstream short of perfection. thriving in new art ca than lions ... and we believed that for music scene. Afropop Every scene, hair- and music. “The Lion painting our faces a long time. But what The visual al- is already thriving in style, outfit and King” movies use white,”. The use of we didn’t know, and bum,“Black is King,” Nigeria and the coun- makeup choice were the Swahili phrase this imagery suggests what we’ve lost from is available to stream tries that surround it. chosen with preci- “Hakuna Matata,” how the western the ancestors, is that on Disney+. American artists like sion. The producers, which translates to world sees Africa. Ar- we’re none of those Drake and Kendrick The University of Houston-Downtown