Student-run since Volume One

VOLUME 67 ISSUE 1 August 24, 2021 In-person commencement celebrates resilient UHD 2020, 2021 graduates BY CHRIS KEMP in-person commencement ceremonies. UHD Gators came to- They were also more gether with friends, family, spread out than commence- and faculty at NRG stadium ments of times past, stream- on Saturday, Aug. 14 for two lined to minimize the risks in-person commencement associated with being in ceremonies celebrating the close proximity to unfamiliar graduates of 2020’s spring, vectors, and accompanied by summer and fall semesters; many hand sanitizer stations. and spring 2021. Beneath these surface For many in attendance, level changes was a famil- this was the first time being iar spirit of celebration; a around so many fellow Gators much-needed reprieve after since the global pandemic the years of hard work that caused UHD, and much of the precede any graduate’s cov- rest of the world, to drasti- eted walk across the stage. cally change its operations Several speakers congratulat- in spring of 2020. The two ed this season’s graduates ceremonies marked the first with uplifting remarks. Graduates from 2020 and 2021 kick off UHD’s first in-person ceremony since the time since the pandemic that COVID-19 pandemic during the 70th commencement’s first of two ceremonies UHD returned to holding CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 on Aug. 14, 2021. PHOTO CREDIT: CHRIS KEMP UHD’s largest chemistry classes extend flexible lab curriculum, spark study BY INDIRA ZALDIVAR Eszter Trufan, Ph.D., year just to see “if this was When the COVID-19 associate professor of chem- even going to work.” pandemic hit last spring, the istry; and Elene Bouhout- The flexibility offered by UHD community was forced sos-Brown, Ph.D., chemistry the online laboratory cur- to move to a fully-online lecturer, teamed up to devel- riculum has extended to the mode of instruction. op an online laboratory cur- current fall semester with the With chemistry classes riculum for UHD’s General in-person and hybrid mode fundamentally dependent Chemistry 1 and 11 (CHEM also available. on hands-on, face-to-face 1107 and 1108) courses. General Chemistry I lab interaction, chemistry faculty The online laboratory is offered both in person and members, had to be quick on curriculum debuted last sum- online with no cost resourc- their feet and devise engag- mer implementing nonhaz- es; and General Chemistry II ing ways to teach students ardous materials that are fre- lab is offered in person and how to conduct at-home ex- quently used in a household in hybrid modality, of which periments that would deliver and are free to affordable. only the hybrid option uses a level of learning experience They co-taught the very no-cost resources. Associate Professor Eszter Trufan, Ph.D., layers close to an in-person envi- first section of CHEM 1107 CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 the solutions. Screenshot courtesy of YouTube. ronment. in the July semester of last

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Flexible lab curriculum CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Trufan and recorded the demon- responded quite well, “guides the community Bouhoutsos-Brown strations. Soon, all their and they submitted to perform every step,” would like all UHD stu- video-recordings will some stellar work.” Trufan added. dents to be aware that be Open Educational Riyasa Shrestha, “It led to a more these options exist and Resources and “freely a junior majoring in meaningful, much have the opportunity to available to everyone at chemistry with a con- deeper integration of hear from their peers UHD and beyond.” centration in biochemis- everything that they who completed these Together they try, took general Chem- were experiencing and courses in the past year. designed the elaborate istry I taught by Trufan studying,” Trufan said. No-cost resources prompts that follow a and Bouhoutsos-Brown Online labs also include equipment and lab. These prompts get in summer 2020. eliminate the commute chemicals that are pro- students to perform a “The affordable to school and extend the vided to the students as variety of calculations experiment materials opportunity to “reach a kit and a shopping list to document their own made my education a students who normally of approximately $10 data collection, think lot easier as I didn’t would not be able to do that includes things like about implications on have to stress over the the in-person courses.” baking soda, a liter of both large and small cost of the materials,” Trufan and vinegar, a pack of food scales, record observa- Shrestha said. “I also Bouhoutsos-Brown are coloring, red cabbage, a tions, and think about liked that I could do the performing a “fairly can of seltzer water. In what’s happening to experiment in my own rigorous” pilot study to Trufan’s words: “small the elements within time, and also be able to look and evaluate how items that you can pick the compounds as they complete them on time. well the students are At-home experiment of General Chem- up from any grocery were transforming in Sometimes in person performing in at home istry 1 in the summer of 2020, displays store.” the course of the experi- labs don’t have enough labs versus the in-per- late stage of decomposing baking soda to “The main reason ments. time to collect all the son experiments. The grow stalactite and stalagmite. why we were interested This online ap- data.” outcome of that study PHOTO CREDIT: RIYASA SHRESTHA in incorporating these proach had never been Traditionally chem- will inform the depart- materials in our labs is implemented at UHD istry labs are confined ment to decide if these Trufan and something to make that to make the experience before. to two hours and 45 more flexible modali- Bouhoutsos-Brown decision just a little bit of doing chemistry General Chemistry minutes. At home, ties should be offered will share the data from nuance not just ‘it’s relatable,” she added. I and II are UHD’s larg- students could “let beyond next year. their study with the always been done this Bouhoutsos-Brown est chemistry courses something sit for a cou- “Implementing department, UHD com- way, so let’s keep it this came up with a list of with a combined aver- ple of days” and “then classes online should munity, and the Ameri- way.’” ideas for the at-home, age enrollment of 300 observe it over time,” be an option,” Shrestha can Chemical Society. “I am super excited online experiments. students per semester. Bouhoutsos-Brownson said. She would want Before the pandemic that students will be Some of the list of “If we had not said. UHD to permanently hit, the ACS said only able to participate in the at-home experiments done this, we could Online labs with- implement chemistry face-to-face courses study that we are doing include extracting have compromised out group members courses both online and could be used to teach because they are going calcium from eggshells, the education of over also lead students to face-to-face. chemistry. to make a difference,” making a potato battery, 600 students in the last perform every step by “Personally, I’d like “We want to chal- Bouhoutsos-Brown growing crystals, and year,” Trufan said. “We themselves or if with to take online classes lenge that a little bit... said. “They’re going to electrolizing a red cab- didn’t know what to their families, they because I find that I can whether that is true have an impact, and I bage solution. Trufan expect, but the students become the expert who manage time better.” or not,” Trufan said. think it’s really cool.” “We want to contribute

At-home experiment displays the early stage of decomposing Late stage of decomposing baking soda to grow stalactite and baking soda to grow stalactite and stalagmite. The liquid (sodium stalagmite at home. PHOTO CREDIT: RIYASA SHRESTHA carbonate solution) was made by decomposing sodium bicar- bonate (baking soda) at home. PHOTO CREDIT: RIYASA SHRESTHA The University of Houston-Downtown August 24, 2021 GATOR LIFE 3 Gators On-Campus Experience welcomes new students BY SHAHERYAR KHAN lanueva states that the campus is packed with On July 22, UHD hosted resources and clubs, and “Gators On-Campus Experi- THE DATELINE organizations that students ence,” one of the first live, can partake in. His convin- University of Houston-Downtown in-person, campus events cing remark was when he since the COVID-19 pre- 1 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002 said that the college tuition dicament limited on-campus the world of social media. was being used for all these Office: S-260 Phone: 713.221.8275 activity. Director of Student Duvall is also the station resources, so essentially, Life Eugene Bernard and manager for UHD’s radio [email protected] students are already paying Interim Director of Student station, iRadio, where this for it, so they might as well Fall 2021 Staff Transition Programs Jordan assembly was broadcasted. utilize them. Greene hosted the event. The following speaker The second person to As this was one of the engaged with the audience speak was Dean of Students Editor...... Indira Zaldivar first events hosted in person was UHD alumni Eric Meritza Tamez, Ph.D. She Assistant Editor...... Aansa Usmani and on campus, it was proper Contreras, Professional and shared her story of being Social Media Manager...... Jema Pantoja to acknowledge COVID-19 University Banking Consult- a first-generation college Business Manager...... Ann M. Lummus safety precautions. With the ant for Truist Bank. Contre- student, stating that “it took Gator Life Section Editor...... Shaheryar Khan rise of permissible indi- ras introduced Truist Bank, an entire village,” to get her viduals granted access to a new bank that will be the News Section Editor...... Gean Garcia to complete her bachelor’s vaccines, many public spaces sixth largest in the nation. Opinions Section Editor...... Ann M. Lummus degree. Her story aims at in Texas do not require face His following remarks A&E Section Editor...... Savannah Mims individuals who often do not masks. UHD has decided to were made to emphasize Faculty Advisor...... Joe Sample, Ph.D. seek assistance when times have face coverings optional monetary responsibility for are tough. on campus. The triumphant university students. One ma- She described her time at The Dateline is the official student newspaper of duo of Bernard and Greene jor thing to take away from college as a “pingpong ball,” the University of Houston-Downtown. Since its first then introduced the first Contreras’s presentation and when she had enough, issue in 1982, The Dateline is proud to be “Student speaker, none other than the was his appeal to students she sought out help. Tamez Run since Volume One.” We strive to meet the needs Vice President of Enrollment to graduate with the least emphasized that UHD is here Management Daniel Villanu- amount of debt possible. of a growing university as well as the growing metro- to help in any way possible eva,Ph.D. The Gators On-Campus politan city that surrounds us. and encourages everyone to Villanueva welcomed the Experience was near its end, seek assistance so that their room and introduced himself as the assembly concluded Submission Policy college experience can go as a mirror reflection of the with the introduction of a smoothly as hers did eventu- The Dateline staff consists of students from UHD audience, full of first-year few campus organizations ally. Bernard then welcomed who complete all tasks required to produce the news- students and transfer stu- and clubs, as well as a group UHD’s “celebrities,” the next paper, which serves all UHD campuses. The opinions dents. He shared his personal interaction of the famous pair of speakers. story from how he started “Gator Chant.” The event and commentaries expressed within reflect the views Student Government As- “dirt poor” and his build-up ended with a campus tour, of the contributing writers. No opinions expressed in sociation President Shamika in education. He enlightened as well as closing remarks at The Dateline reflect the viewpoints of UHD, its ad- Jefferson and SGA Vice the audience with a couple of the gym. ministration, or students. President Michelle Duvall pieces of advice for success. To view the entire broad- The Dateline reserves the right to edit or modify emphasized that there are so “First thing no one will cast of the live event, visit submissions for the sake of clarity, content, grammar, many ways to get involved tell you is that earning a col- iRadio’s Instagram account with the Gator community. or space limitations. All submissions become property lege degree is difficult, but I @uhdiradio, for more infor- They expressed the import- of The Dateline and may not be returned. am here to tell you that what mation. ance of building relation- All paid writers must be currently enrolled stu- you are about to do is really ships and networking within dents at UHD. All paid writers must also complete difficult.” vendor registration with the University of Houston Villanueva emphasizes that the route the first-year System prior to contributing. students and transfer students Press releases, story ideas, news tips and sugges- are taking is by no means tions are always welcomed. We encourage all students a walk in the park. UHD is to contribute. Any student interested in joining The known to be a university Dateline staff may request more detailed information consisting of first-genera- sending an email to the editor Indira Zaldivar at edi- tion college students, so this [email protected]. was a remark many of the individuals in the audience needed to hear. “The second thing you Follow us on Social Media! need to know is that there are a lot of resources on cam- pus.” Many students have the routine of simply going to class and then going home until they graduate. Vil- Illustrations on this page are BY GEAN GARCIA @the_dateline The University of Houston-Downtown 4 GATOR LIFE August 24, 2021 Faculty, Staff senates want flexible work policy, course modality BY INDIRA ZALDIVAR 5 as the delta variant UHD President Loren fall semester.” cites how other Texas threat level,” the letter increased hospitaliza- Blanchard on July 8 The recent letter universities have im- reads. As COVID-19 cases tions in Harris County. mentioned that for the asks that UHD allows plemented a work from At the time of this in Harris County have Statewide, COVID-19 fall semester, “approx- faculty to change their home policy as allowed writing, UHD remains spiked over the past cases have skyrocketed imately 60% of classes course modality for fall by Texas Government in green status but month, the UHD Fac- primarily affecting the at UHD will be offered and authorize and final- Code 658.010 through will start the semester ulty Senate Executive unvaccinated, as they face-to-face, with the ize expeditely a “flexi- a written authorization with a “soft open- Committee and Staff make up a significant remaining 40% offered ble workplace policy.” by the “administrative ing” announced by Senate Executive Com- majority of hospi- in various hybrid, on- According to the head of the employing UHD President Loren mittee raised concerns talized patients from line and online interac- letter, UHD should state agency.” Blanchard Ph.D on of the risks of returning COVID-19. tive modalities.” reconsider the “ongoing “The continued rig- Aug. 12. Fall semester to in-person classes for Since July 12, In response to the refusal” of implement- id push to return UHD classes scheduled for the fall 2021 semester UHD has operated at new policies attached ing a work-from home to pre-covid operations hybrid and in-person in an open joint-letter a “green” status from to the green status, the policy. The letter states restricts the ability of modalities will contin- addressed to the UHD UHD’s COVID-19 Faculty Senate sent a working from home UHD staff to take their ue to be offered with community on Aug. 9. threat level matrix with resolution on July 27 would “reduce traffic health and safety into students expected to The letter came just faculty and staff ex- to UHD Administra- on campus and accom- their own hands, despite meet at least once for days after Harris Coun- pected to “resume their tion “asking that UHD modate faculty and staff the university being the first two weeks of ty raised its COVID-19 pre-COVID on-campus faculty be allowed to who are caretakers of squarely located in a the semester. threat level from orange work schedules.” choose the form that children/elderly.” county that is currently to red “severe” on Aug. A message from their courses take in the The letter also at its highest COVID

Resilient Graduates CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Derek Delgado, a ened their physical and deadly freeze, as well member of the Univer- mental health before as the ongoing pandem- sity of Houston Sys- presenting former UHD ic. tem Board of Regents interim President Anto- “One thing I’ve served as one of the nio Tillis, Ph.D., with learned about Gators… guest speakers. the UHD Presidential is that they will always Delgado remind- Medallion of Honor. emerge from the waters ed graduates that the Upon receiving his to keep swimming,” recent roadblocks award, Tillis took some Tillis said in his speech. the global pandemic time to acknowledge “Gators are not had presented would how he is eternally afraid to put in the ultimately be “setups grateful for the time he hard work necessary to for future success.” spent as a member of achieve their goals and Delgado’s comments the UHD community. serve their communi- were followed by words He also noted how ties.” of encouragement from he had witnessed the Throughout each UHD President Loren community overcome speaker’s remarks was a Blanchard, Ph.D., who challenge after chal- palpable sense of pride commended graduates lenge during his tenure in UHD. This pride was for the impressive feat at UHD. directed at the students of balancing schol- Tillis, who now who have persevered as arship with the many serves as the Chancellor well as the faculty and other challenges the last of Rutgers Universi- staff who have support- year had presented. ty-Camden, reminded ed them. Blanchard touched graduates how many Following the com- on how proud he was of them had overcome mencement ceremony, I of how students had Hurricane Harvey at caught up with some of adapted to a corrosive the start of their col- the graduates who were environment that threat- lege journey, the recent being celebrated. Steph- anie Arteaga, a graduate Gator graduates’ families, friends, and other invitees to UHD’s of UHD’s College of 70th commencement, enter NRG Stadium on Aug. 14, 2021. Public Service was PHOTO CREDIT: CHRIS KEMP especially appreciative of the care that went many Gators that felt masks, this most recent into the ceremony that the 68th Commence- commencement cere- took place that morn- ment left a lot to be mony had it all. Bull- ing. desired. horns, matching t-shirts, Arteaga shared that “Today was much celebratory dances, that CONGRATULATIONS she had felt disappoint- better,” Arteaga re- one unfortunate Gator CLASS OF 2020 ed by the virtual com- marked on Saturday who took a spill while & 2021! mencement ceremony morning. crossing the stage, and Plushies dressed up in graduation regalia. that took place on Dec. - The Dateline PHOTO CREDIT: CHRIS KEMP Outside of a few even a mariachi band to 19, 2020. She is one of smiles hidden beneath boot. The University of Houston-Downtown August 24, 2021 GATOR LIFE 5 Technology Needs Survey returns, qualifies Gators for technology equipment

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UHD’s affordable tuition rates and competitive On- lineU’s Salary Score, placed UHD both among Texas’s most affordable online colleges and among Texas’s online schools with the highest alumni salaries!

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The University of Houston-Downtown 6 NEWS August 24, 2021 Harris County raises COVID-19 threat level to severe BY AANSA USMANI Gov. Greg Abbott is- sued orders preventing On August 5, Harris such measures.” County Judge Lina With these factors Hidalgo raised the in mind, it is now more COVID-19 level to important to get vacci- “severe” in light of nated. growing cases amid the Hidalgo has contin- delta and the lambda ued expressing urgency variants. in getting vaccinations, “We find ourselves otherwise avoid “all retracing our steps but the most essential toward the edge of a interactions.” cliff,” Hidalgo said at a “If you’re in the minori- press conference. “It’s ty who has not gotten very conceivable that the shot, you’re the rea- we can once again be son we’re here today,” heading toward a public Hidalgo said. health catastrophe.” Additionally, she According to The Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo informs on the spike of COVID-19 hospitalizations, advised that both vacci- Houston Chronicle, delta variant, and announces that Harris County’s COVID-19 threat level is moved to nated and unvaccinated Harris County has “severe” at a press conference on Aug. 5. 2020. Photo courtesy of ABC13. individuals to continue remained at the “red” wearing masks and to (severe) threat level for The new advisory lambda variant. Origi- cine-resistant” variant, “perfect storm” from use emergency rooms most of the pandemic, comes amid growing nating from Chile, prompting further viral having “strained staff, “for life-threatening lowering its threshold cases of COVID-19— the delta variant was concern. a more transmissible emergencies only.” this past May to “or- predominantly amongst first detected at Hous- According to virus, and the limited ange” (significant) as the unvaccinated ton Methodist this past Houston Public Media, ability for local leaders more people got vacci- crowd. Other causes June. Since then, it has Hidalgo has dubbed the to implement public nated. for concern include the emerged as a “vac- current situation to be a health policies after Senate passes bipartisan $1 trillion infrastrucure bill

BY SERGIO PRESA are planning to propose The Senate passed a a 7% tax for corpo- bipartisan infrastructure rate profits over $100 bill on Aug. 11 aimed at million. upgrading various parts King defended the of infrastructure across measure saying, “it’s the U.S. not socialism, it’s an at- Democrats are also tempt to have a fair tax hoping to pass a $3.5 at a pretty low level for trillion budget plan. companies that would Having support otherwise pay zero.” from both Democrats Democrats have and Republicans, the also considered raising $1-trillion bill infra- the corporate tax rate up structure bill includes to 28% and increasing $550 billion for the top individual tax spending on utilities, bracket to 39.6%. broadband, and trans- Democrats must portation, such as roads, keep the support of all bridges, railways, their members in the waterways, public Cars stop at a red light as Metropolitan Transit Autority’s RedLine METROrail moves Senate and from most transit and other areas north on Main Street in downtown Houston on July 19, 2021. PHOTO CREDIT: INDIRA ZALDIVAR Democratic members in of transportation. the House if they want Both parties have get through the Senate. Democrats $3.5 trillion was called “the most infrastructure bill is a to get the spending plan said the bill is overdue The other target is the to spend on childcare, consequential piece of priority for Democrats, passed. Losing support and will modernize budget resolution. In tuition-free community legislation for working their biggest priority is from just a few Demo- transportation as well a letter to colleagues, college, healthcare, and people, the elderly, the the $3.5 trillion budget cratic lawmakers in the as help get the U.S. Senate Majority Leader climate change policy, sick, and the poor since plan. House or in the Senate economy back on track Chuck Schumer said without needing a vote FDR and the New Deal Democrats want could jeopardize getting after the impacts of the the Senate will work from Republicans. of the 1930s” by Sen. to enact corporate and the spending plan COVID-19 pandemic. towards passing the Schumer wants Bernie Sanders who is individual tax reforms passed. The bill is one of budget resolution. If the measure approved also the Senate Budget to pay for the spending the budget resolution before the Senate’s Committee Chairman. plan. Sens. Angus King two legislative targets Democrats wanted to passes, it would allow August recess. The bill While passing the and Elizabeth Warren The University of Houston-Downtown August 24, 2021 NEWS 7 Houston federal judge denies new DACA applicants DHS failed to dis- ents have contributed rization. Also consistent tinguish between the immensely to the with that order, DHS protections from depor- Houston community will continue to grant tation and the benefits as educators, business or deny renewal DACA (such as work and ed- owners, doctors and requests. ucation authorization) nurses. Including law- Universities like that came with DACA. yers, fashion designers, UHD have worked with DHS did not con- musicians, athletes, and DACA students during sider whether to retain military servicemen and these uncertainties in the protections from women. recent years. deportation, even if the HILS also notes For assistance, benefits were terminat- during Harvey, DACA please visit the DACA ed. recipients risked their page on UHD’s official The Greater Hous- lives and in one case, website at uhd.edu/stu- ton area which Hanen giving it to keep Hous- dent-affairs/daca/Pages/ resides over, has the tonians safe. default.aspx. fourth largest number of The July 16 order DACA recipients in the from the Southern Dis- country. trict of Texas instituted DACA supporters rally outside the U.S. Supreme Court on June Over 33,000 indi- by Hanen, stated that 18, in Washington, DC on the day the Supreme Court, in a 5-4 viduals in Houston are the DHS is prohibited decision, rejected the Trump administration’s attempt to end supported by DACA. from granting initial DACA. Photo courtesy of Drew Angerer via Getty Images. Houston Immigra- DACA requests and tion Legal Services accompanying requests state DACA recipi- for employment autho- BY ANN M. LUMMUS ruled the program was policy matters. “created in violation of In July, South the law” and “illegally District of Texas Judge implemented.” As a Andrew Hanen ruled result, the ruling barred the Deferred Action for the government from Childhood Arrivals, as accepting new applica- illegal. Remember when tions to the program. According to Although this can- Hanen, the Obama newspapers had celled Biden’s execu- administration who tive order in the mean- instated DACA did time, Hanen did not birthday not use the right legal pull DACA recipients procedure to create the their status. announcements?! program, making it “These rulings do illegal. not resolve the issue of Now buy Ad space On Jan. 20, Presi- the hundreds of thou- dent Joe Biden issued for special sands of DACA recip- an executive order rein- celebrations and ients and others who stating DACA after the have relied upon this annoucements! 2017 Trump adminis- program for almost a tration planned to phase decade,” Hanen stated. out the program. Prior, on June 18, Through a series of the Supreme Court events between 2017- ruled that the DACA Email The Dateline your picture and 2018, DACA recipients’ program could contin- message. And we will publish your Ad deferrals and employ- ue. The Court explicitly in the newspaper or on social media. ment authorizations states: “The dispute under DACA were is instead primarily valid until the date of Prices start at $25 to $64 about the procedure the expiration. Submissions and payment must be agency, Department Pending applica- received by the 1st or 3rd week of Homeland Security, tions and renewals are of the month. followed in, rescinding considered by a case- DACA.” by-case basis under the Ad message must be less than 50 National Immi- current rules. words. gration Law Center DACA is a program explained that although that allows eligible im- DHS was bound by the migrants to temporarily attorney general’s legal avoid deportation and conclusion that DACA Email for more info at, receive renewable work was illegal, the agency [email protected] permits or education. failed to offer sufficient These recipients reasoning for rescinding are people who were DACA by failing to brought to the U.S. exercise its discretion in as children. Hanen The University of Houston-Downtown 8 NEWS August 24, 2021 Military coup threatens ILLUSTRATION CREDIT: SARAH RAMIREZ Myanmar women

Lights out protects night- time migratory birds BY INDIRA ZALDIVAR tive is a partnership among Houston Audobon, the Cor- Bird fall migration has nell Lab of Ornithology, Tex- started and ongoing through an by Nature and more bird November. conservation organizations to With the migration ap- monitor these collisions and proaching its peak on Sept. 5 learn how to prevent them. through Oct. 9, it is import- Turning lights out, keep- ant that city folks be aware ing cats indoors, and grow- that exterior artificial lights ing native plants in one’s on structures may distract garden are all initiatives that migratory birds flying at help nurture migratory birds night and cause them to fatal- and the abundant wildlife ly collide against buildings. in Houston. Nurturing a May Sabe Phyu (right) protests in front of Indonesia Embassy on Feb. 24, Bird coservation societies are bird-friendly environment 2021. Photo courtesy of @maysabephyu; on Instagram. calling bird-friendly Hous- are a win-win situation for tonians to turn out exterior all, according to Houston nonessential lights from 11 BY JEMA PANTOJA the progress made by women that they once again have to Audubon’s director of con- before the coup threatens fight for democracy in their p.m. to 6 a.m. every night In the midst of the servation, Richard Gibbons, their rights, gender equality, country. GEN is a collation through Nov. 30 to help military coup happening in Ph.D. Not only do birds and safety, as a result revital- of more than 100 organiza- make a safe passage for these Myanmar since Feb. 1, the benefit ecology, but also izing Myanmar’s long history tions across the country that important feathered friends. women of Myanmar have contribute to the economy. of patriarchal oppression. advocates for gender equality An estimated 1 billion taken a stand and are leading Bird watching, for example, Before the coup, wom- and women’s rights. U.S. birds die each year from protests. attracts tourists and stimu- en’s rights advocates started “Over the past ten years colliding with buildings. Myanmar’s coup has lates economy. to pave the way for gender we have worked tirelessly Houston ranks No. 2 among been deadly to peaceful pro- “Anyone and everyone equality and to empower to expose the many forms of U.S. cities for exposing testors who are marching the in our community...intersect women concerning the polit- gender-based discrimination night-time migratory birds to streets in need of democracy with the endeavor of having ical, economic, and cultural and violence,” Phyu stated light pollution. Almost 2 bil- and to stand up to the mili- a community that is in tune ideology of society. Women’s in a piece published by Open lion birds fly through Texas. tary. However, the coup has with nature,” Gibbons said. rights organizations such as Democracy. The Houston-Galveston area, been especially devastating “If we have a community Gender Equality Network, Phyu has been pressuring specifically, is important for for the country’s women. where birds can thrive, peo- Karen Women’s organiza- the international community birds flying on the Central Due to the coup, State ple are also going to do better tion, Burmese Women’s since the coup for their sup- Flyway migratory path. Counsellor Aung San Suu in that environment.” Union, and Women’s League port and to raise awareness The “Lights Out” initia- Kyi was forced out of office, of Burma were beginning to and importance of women’s this now threatens to reverse take apart traditional societal rights. the progress made over the norms and stereotypes that “Women’s rights have past few years that brought delayed gender equality in never been part of the about more equal opportuni- Myanmar. military agenda. They may ties in society to women in Despite the threats pretend they care, but it’s all Myanmar. brought about due to the lies. In their view, the role of Over the past 10 years, coup, women are taking a women is to preserve culture the number of women in stand and protesting on the and religion,” she added. power has been steadily frontlines to secure what they Activists worldwide call increasing and in the No- have worked to gain. for people to get involved vember 2020 elections, 17% May Sabe Phyu of GEN and care about the Myanmar elected parliaments of the is taking action and speak- women ‘s equal rights in a government were women. ing out against the injustices country overtaken by patriar- This progress is remarkable women have faced in the past chy. considering how Myanmar and what they could face in has culturally ingrained the future due to the coup. sexism and discrimination Many women are angry Illustration courtesy of @houstonaubon on Insta- against women. Reversing and saddened by the reality gram. The University of Houston-Downtown August 24, 2021 OPINIONS 9 To BE or NOT to be vaccinated

BY ANN M. LUMMUS paralytic poliomyelitis were also reported in Texas in Covid-19 As the 2021-2022 school 1970, about two-thirds of the year moves forth the pande- national total. vaccinations mic still exists in Texas and The diphtheria outb- has reached another peak in Availiable for reaks, particularly, caused coronavirus cases. some public alarm. As of right now, our the UHD In spring 1971, with the communities are debating support of the Texas Me- community over this overtly overdrama- dical Association, the Texas tic sense of a vaccine which State Department of Health, is no different from other and other groups, the Texas vaccines, including the fact Legislature enacted a man- that our nation is designing datory immunization law for health mandates. school children. To note, in a public The Texas school On-campus Vaccination Vaccinations available institution kids and young immunization law requires adults are required to have event with HEB with UTHealth protection against small- an immunization record. pox, diphtheria, tetanus, In other cases, regarding poliomyelitis, rubeola, and health regulations, kids are Date and time: rubella. Dates and time: to quarantine 24 hours for Exemption may be UTHealth is administering the head lice and the flu. Also, 1st dose Thursday 8/26 granted for religious reasons in general people were to go Pfizer Vaccine every everyday or medical contraindication, home for high fevers. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. but “religious exemptions from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. What is at stake right may be set aside in time of 2nd dose: Friday 9/17 now to even ask a question emergency or epidemic by about not following a safe 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Where: UTHealth Cooley the State commissioner of and proper guide with this health.” University Life Center at 7440 virus? The Texas State Board of Texas is not privy to Cambridge St., 77054 Health is authorized by law immunization nor is this the (recommended) to modify or delete require- Where: first-time Texas communi- ments for immunization, and If this place is not within your ties have been affected by a under that authorization the UHD Welcome Center virus. reach, there are more places you board eliminated smallpox Parents and health pro- requirements in 1971 and can visit by scanning the QR fessionals are worried that established regulations. their kids face illness with no code below All immunizations support right now. should be completed by the But there is hope, history time of enrollment. Cost: Free (insurance will pay for the fee) shows vaccines and mask do However, the law also al- work even when there are lows an unimmunized child no mandates but there are What to bring: Insurance cards or Social Security to enter school as soon as he regulations. has received the first dose of According to Public Number card (if you have no insurance card) vaccine, provided he conti- Health Reports, Texas has nues to receive the remaining a school immunization law Important: Don't take any over-the-counter medicine prior immunizations as rapidly as that provides no penalties for is medically feasible. noncompliance and, as with to the appointment (ex. Tylenol or Motrin/ibuprofen) Finally, the law requires all such laws, it could cause the Texas State Department pre-school immunizations to of Health to provide the show the record of morbidity Scan to schedule an appointment required immunizations to that led to its enactment. children in areas where no From 1967 to 1970, local provision exists to pro- Texas had reported a dis- vide these services. proportionate share of the This is particularly im- nation’s morbidity in the portant in Texas, where only vaccine preventable diseases. 77 of the 254 counties are In 1970, an outbreak served by a State-associated of diphtheria occurred in local health department. a Texas city, the third such out-break in three years. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Twenty-two cases of

ILLUSTRATION CREDIT: GISELLE OVIEDO The University of Houston-Downtown 10 OPINIONS August 24, 2021 It’s okay to enjoy the Olympics BY VARAH THORNTON Open a month before the Olympics began. Despite The delta variant is the outpouring of support surging, people are still fight- she received, Osaka was ing facts, and Tokyo can’t nevertheless maligned and seem to get their COVID-19 criticized for her decision to outbreak under control. But not participate in the required wasn’t that opening ceremo- post-match press releases. ny great? Did you secretly After a tete-a-tete with whisper “Yeah!” in your own the Big Four Tournaments, head despite being alone and Osaka withdrew altogether knowing no one can read to focus on the upcoming your thoughts? Did you feel Olympics where she would that twinge of guilt as you represent Japan. It was a thought it? If so, you’re not delightful surprise when she alone. appeared as the final torch No matter how you feel bearer and lit the Olympic about the Olympics, the Cauldron. pandemic, or just sports in Osaka and Biles were general, there’s something two of many Olympic about the Olympics that just athletes who were front and gets to people. Whether it’s center with their mental seeing the majesty of the health struggles. Because opening ceremony or getting of this, the conversation to watch a variety of sports across social media platforms played by athletes at the top evolved to better understand of their field, people go nuts. Tennis star Naomi Osaka lights the delayed 2020 Olympics’ cauldron. Photo the pressures athletes and Some chalk it up to courtesy of Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images their families were under. patriotism, but it’s some- Amid a pandemic where thing deeper. It’s a collective ceremonies have been Come Together Epitomized by Simone Biles’ mental health has been awe at an annual worldwide Taekwondo athlete Pita When the Olympics withdrawal from several pushed to the limits, it was event that most people can Taufatofua, the oiled-up flag concluded, there was no competitions, mental health refreshing for many to see be on the same page about. bearer representing Tonga. great fanfare except that of was at the forefront. For the athletes advocate for their I’d even go so far as to say He has stood out not only for a pesky moth stealing the first time, athletes’ mental well-being instead of allow- that the Olympics gets more sporting his country’s tradi- show during the concluding condition was put forward ing themselves to be pres- traction than the FIFA World tional costume, but also for speech. All of the major as equally important as their sured to give it all for the Cup. There’s just no beating his impressive musculature. athletes had already returned physical. sake of a medal. the scale of both participa- Despite the current condi- home or were waiting for Before the games began, Regardless of the indi- tion as well as viewership. tions, Taufatofua pulls it off final results. Japanese native and tennis vidual accomplishments of There’s also an endless with a smile and this year One of the most united superstar Naomi Osaka drew participants, it felt like the amount of sharing. In the age was accompanied by Malia stories to come from the international acclaim and world as a whole won by the of social media, we’re more Paseka as the International games this year wasn’t the controversy for choosing display of camaraderie on prone to watch more, learn Olympic Committee enacted pandemic or a feat of great her mental health over the this alone. more, and absorb more of gender parity rules for every strength, but one of caution. requirements of the French what global events have to country. offer. For many, this is the first time they get to not only But what about the Pan- see people from other cul- demic? To BE tures competing on the world As individuals, we cannot stage, but it might be the first control what our govern- or time they get to see someone ments enact, good or bad. who looks like them excel. Like many others, I don’t NOT to be vaccinated believe the Olympics should The Parade of Nations have proceeded. Tokyo in CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 Viewers also get to wit- particular is still experienc- ness one of the biggest fash- ing a severe outbreak with ions shows the world will less than 40% of the popula- “Successful implementation To be or not to be vaccinated ever see. The fashions range tion vaccinated. Regardless, of the Texas compulsory school is within itself a question of public from the traditional to the the games proceeded, and it immunization law is attributed to concern. It is in the best interest of basic and sometimes outright appeared that both athletes public concern, a good law, and ex- Texans to encourage immunization bizarre. Each participating and Tokyo officials took cellent cooperation from all agencies against COVID-19 just as we have country is introduced by the precautions seriously. in the State concerned with health against previous outbreaks. The host nation along with a del- Those athletes who chose and education,” Gon Lee 1975 Texas American image of morality and egation of their participating not to get vaccinated were State Department of Health said. community is being tested. Immu- athletes. Various companies quarantined under question- vie to style participating del- “The provision of money and sup- nity cannot be better as kept broken, able conditions. The United port by the Texas legislature is also while in the past the regulations put egations, sometimes gather- States was not alone in ath- cited as one of the most important in place improved people’s quality of ing multiple. letes who voiced opposition One of the standouts to getting vaccinated. factors.” life. of the past three opening The University of Houston-Downtown August 24, 2021 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 11 Gymnast Simone Biles withdraws from Olympic competitions, challenges mental health stigmas

Superstar Simone Biles of the United States Gymnastics bounces back to win bronze-medal after mental health break and celebrates on the podium on Aug. 3, 2021. Photo courtesy of Mike Blake via Reuters.

BY SASHA SMITH communities, where she has it’s hard for us to process allowed fellow athletes, such that,” Biles commented. On July 27, 32-time as Michel Phelps and other She proceeded to Olympic gold medalist Si- USA Olympic gymnasts to give her much-anticipa- mone Biles decided to back delve into their own recol- ted answer in response out of the Tokyo Olympic lections of their struggles to the negativity. Games 2021 and competing or prioritizing “For anyone saying individual sections to their own mental health. I quit, I didn’t quit. prioritize mental health. Teammates My mind and body are Though Biles has never and Jordan Chiles took to simply not in sync... I shied away from the topic Instagram to show their don’t think you realize of mental health, this same support not only for Bile. how dangerous this is respect was not met by “You will forever be on [a] hard competition others when she announced loved. We can’t thank you surface.” her mental health withdrawal enough. You have such a Simone Biles has from the games. huge inspiration on all of us. been a true testament of Commentator Charlie We wouldn’t have done it mind over matter. An Kirk went as far as to say without you…” voiced Chi- example being the past Biles was a “selfish socio- les. Olympic Games in 2016, path” and a “shame to this “love you so much. thank when she competed country.” you for inspiring me every after the conviction of “We are raising a gene- single day. you are not only her former doctor. She ration of weak people like an amazing gymnast but you has constantly paved the Simone Biles,” Kirk added. are also an amazing person,” way for those in sports However, Biles has commented Lee. and allowed all to see endured many challlenges Celebrities such as that it only takes a little for the love of hersport. Biles Michelle Obama, Adam time, and work to make has competed through a ILLUSTRATION CREDIT: GISELLE OVIEDO Rippon, Justin Bieber, Meg- yourself great. broken rib, a shattered toe, han McCain, Andy Cohen, “Before you can achieve, and a calf muscle that has I’ve even been here.” This was a facet duly Kerry Washington, and you must believe in yourself. been torn two to three times Biles not only gives noted once media outlets many more, took to Twitter You are more capable than already, amongst other things herself grace but praise as found out that Simone Biles’s to give an outpour of support you think,” Biles said. yet, she has pushed herself she honors the fact she still aunt had suddenly passed to Biles and the decision she Simone has seven Olympic despite the extremities of her placed and prioritized what two days before she decided consciously made. Biles not medals including four gold, injuries. matters most. to return to the Olympics. Si- only shook the stands but one silver, and two bronze. Biles has not only fought “At the end of the day, mone has continued to grace many hearts when she let the The last bronze is the through external wounds we’re not just athletes or the stage and blow us away media into her headspace. statement piece she took but the internal ones caused entertainment; we’re human with her world-renowned “With gymnasts, when home from the delayed 2020 by former USA Gymnastics too. We have real emotions, talent and skill. you get injured, your heal Tokyo Olympic Games. physician, Dr. Lawrence and sometimes they don’t “I’m not the next Usain time is four to six weeks, but “It means more than all of Gerard Nasar, as well. realize that we have things Bolt or Michael Phelps. I’m then something so traumatic the golds because I pushed The strength and unwa- going on behind the scenes the first Simone Biles.” that happens like this… there through so much the last five vering dedication of Biles that affect us whenever we is no four to six weeks, so years and the last week while are respected amongst many go out and compete.” The University of Houston-Downtown 12 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT August 24, 2021

Barbarossa Coffee Shop

famous Honey & Milk High School. With the Latte. This drink is best success and ever-grow- to drink cold because ing customer base of instead of ice cubes, Barbarossa, Ozzy was this coffee shop uses able to open a second milk cubes for a cream- location in Tomball. ier and delicious coffee, This was a very proud rather than a watery moment for him as his one. dream continues to If you are in the grow. mood for a hot drink, Caner Hıdır is the the Honey & Milk Latte manager of the Tomball can be made as a hot location, and the coffee one, as well. Anoth- shop holds a deep con- er hot favorite is the nection in his life. Captain’s Latte, a drink w“Barbarossa is a with maple syrup and very important, his- cinnamon that will keep torical person in my you warm. country [Turkey], so A patron does not this place is more than The Dateline’s Shaheryar Khan enjoys a cup of coffee at Barbarossa Coffee Shop. necessarily have to a coffeeshop to me,” Photo courtesy of Doğaç Özgün Arı. choose a drink on the Hıdır said. “I feel like menu, for the talented this is my home away BY SHAHERYAR KHAN in Spring. In four years, his coffee shop in the try one of the specialty baristas can make any from home.” Barbarossa has grown Spring area. With the brewing methods they Houston is a heaviy drink that a customer Barbarossa con- to somewhat of a cult immense number of offer. They have a caffeinated city, with an can come up with. tinues to grow and followed by several coffee shops in Hous- Chemex, a Siphon, an enormous selection of Serving delicious gather new customers loyal customers. ton, Barbarossa need- AeroPress, a V60, and coffee shops to choose coffee is not the only worldwide, for they Ozzy is from ed to do something a traditional Turkish from. One local coffee way Barbarossa serves ship their single-origin Turkey and always had to stand out, so they coffee. No matter what shop that is gradually the community, for they coffee beans all around a passion for coffee. became one of the only method of brew you climbing the ranks in are constantly engag- the world, including Thanks to his duty coffee shops in Houston choose, you will not the Houston coffee ing with customers their signature, Anchor in the Turkish Naval that roast their coffee be disappointed with scene is Barbarossa and fans. They hold Blend. Forces, he had the beans. your cup of coffee and Coffee Shop. events such as coffee opportunity of visit- Barbarossa has the selection of 18+ Barbarossa first workshops, car meets, ing over 1,000 coffee items on the menu for single-origin coffee served their coffee and they sponsor many shops. After his service every coffee enthusiast. beans. If you are a in 2017, when Ogu- community figures, like in the navy, he followed If you are a coffee con- casual drinker, then you zhan “Ozzy” Guragac sponsoring sporting his dream and opened noisseur, then definitely should try Barbarossa’s opened the first location events for Klein Cain

Barbarossa Coffee raises funds for a community cause. In addition to coffee, Barbarossa serves other signature drinks. PHOTO CREDIT: SHAHERYAR KHAN PHOTO CREDIT: SHAHERYAR KHAN The University of Houston-Downtown