UH no longer feels safe. Will the new improvements help?
THE COUGAR EDITORIAL BOARD
@THEDAILYCOUGAR
It goes without saying that our student body has suffered due to the rise of crime on campus. From the Moody Towers break-in on Aug. 27, 2024, all the way up to the recent robbery where a student was held at gunpoint on Jan. 14, our campus has been a target of relentless turmoil.
UH has addressed these concerns through an email establishing various safety measures — setting up a police substation to be opened on Jan. 20, allocating a permanent budget to hire 80 security personnel and making plans to expand the main police station — but students are still uneasy.
Students still feel unsafe.
It will be difficult to undo not only the culture of fear these incidents have created, but also the lack of trust students have in UHPD to protect those who are vulnerable. Right after the sexual assault happened in the Welcome Center Garage, UH heightened security in parking garages, and students could see security guards standing idly in our buildings.
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But in just a few weeks, if not months, that presence disappeared, and UH was seen as an easy target yet again.
When one of our student reporters headed to the police station to attempt to speak with UHPD Chief Ceaser Moore Jr., he was told by staff that it wasn’t going to happen despite spending hours in the lobby.
Is this how you treat members of the community? Hiding away in an office without addressing concerns?
UH administrators are notorious for sending out emails rather than addressing the student body face-to-face. President Renu Khator earned $1,901,444 in 2023, which is more than any public university executive makes in the nation. That in itself should guarantee a higher commitment to student safety and their well-being.
However, when a UH student was robbed on Jan. 14, rather than addressing the student body, Khator was too busy posting updates about the Farish Hall demolition on X. As UH spends $43 million dollars on the Centennial Project, if students are too scared to enjoy the finished product, what
will it be for?
It seems like the only time students get to address our University leaders in person is at the Board of Regents meetings, but even then, students are met with obstacles.
The last Board of Regents meeting was supposed to happen at the main campus, but was changed to the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Houston at the last minute, where only five students were able to speak. Students were rightfully upset, and it’s a recurring pattern of UH administrators handling business without taking into account student concerns.
So what now? How can UH rekindle trust in the community?
They can start by following through with their commitments. If they are going to hire 80 new security personnel, they should be patrolling in problem areas and be equipped to respond to any potential issues. In fact, UHPD usually hosts an annual “Walk in the Dark” program, but that was nowhere to be seen this year. UHPD should have taken the initiative to offer an opportunity for our UH community, especially in 2025, to let them
know where they feel unsafe. Although UH is taking steps to increase its security, it will mean nothing if the security presence lasts only a few months. UH doesn’t need temporary solutions. We need our administrators to take a hard, no-tolerance stance on crime. If they don’t, our community will only continue to suffer.
editor@thedailycougar.com
Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar
UH expands safety resources, students share advice
WENDOLEE T. GARCIA MARTINEZ NEWS EDITOR
@WENDOLEEGARCIAMTZ
Safety remains a top concern for UH students. While the University reports the lowest violent crime rate among Texas public universities, the recent campus incidents have led students to question how to stay safe on campus. Here is an overview of UH safety initiatives and student tips for staying safe:
UH safety plans
Since March 2025, UH has added 80 new safety and security personnel to expand security presence, said a University spokesperson. UH has also upgraded and repositioned more than 120 cameras for better monitoring.
The University will add a new UHPD substation near the Welcome Center to make it easier for students and staff to contact officers. The substation will open Jan. 20.
“These investments are part of a long-term strategy that has historically kept our violent crime rate significantly lower than our peer institutions and the surrounding city,” the University spokesperson said. “We will continue to evolve our tactics and technology to ensure that every member of our community feels secure on campus.”
Tips for safety
Many students emphasized that paying attention to their surroundings is important when walking on campus.
“I make sure to stay vigilant, not walk alone and walk quickly,” said biotechnology senior Arianna Garza. “When I walk alone I make sure I am aware of my surroundings and ready for anything that could happen.”
While students don’t recommend walking at night, sometimes there is no choice. To feel safer walking at night, students suggest using the buddy system.
“I usually walk with someone when it’s dark out,” said supply chain and logistics senior Julian Garcia. “When I can’t, I always let someone know where I’m going, when I arrive and when I leave.”
Students often carry pepper spray with them as well. However, it is important to pay attention to UH guidelines as some buildings such as Cullen Performance Hall and TDECU Stadium don’t allow pepper spray and other self defense tools
inside the premises.
University safety resources
UH offers Cougar Ride, a nighttime transportation service available through the UH Go app. The average wait is seven minutes.
For those who feel unsafe walking alone, whether it be night or day, can request a UHPD security escort. This service is only for students, faculty and staff traveling on campus.
Stay Cougar S.A.F.E. is an initiative that offers safety resources and includes a list of safety tips, including:
• Programing your phone to list UHPD as a speed dial option
• Use the buddy system to walk at night
• Keep a record of serial numbers from valuable items such as phones and laptops.
• Keep music at a volume that allows you to stay aware of your surroundings
• Report suspicious activity to UHPD by calling 713-743-3333 or dialing 911.
“We encourage our community to utilize our on-demand safety escorts and Cougar Ride transportation. We will continue to work tirelessly to maintain the safe environment our community deserves,” the spokesperson said.
news@thedailycougar.com
SAFETY
Lily Huynh/ The Cougar
IMMIGRATION
Visa restrictions leave international students facing uncertainty
KAREN WEI
FEATURE STAFF WRITER
@KAREN_FEIWEI
International students face an increasingly hostile landscape. In addition to visa revocations and travel restrictions enacted last year, students from 39 countries will now be unable to obtain visas to study in the United States.
As of Jan. 1, visa issuance is fully suspended for 19 countries, including: Afghanistan, Burma, Burkina Faso, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, as well as individuals traveling on Palestinian Authority–issued or endorsed documents.
Visa issuance is partially suspended to 19 countries, including: Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Cote D’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Venezuela, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
There are exceptions for permanent residents and students with dual citizenship who are applying with a passport from a country that is not subject to suspension as well as participants in certain major sporting events and U.S. government employees.
“We recognize that recent developments around international visas have created uncertainty and may feel unsettling for some members of our international community,” said International Student and Scholar Services Office associate director Stefan Johnsson. “UH remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting any students affected by these changes by providing clear information, guidance and resources to help them navigate this moment and succeed academically, professionally and personally.”
For students, the latest increase in visa restrictions is unsurprising but concerning nonetheless; being an international student is a process inherently laden with uncertainty.
“It did not strike me as anything new, as there have always been visa restrictions and suspensions for countries experiencing internal turmoil,” said public policy and religious studies junior Han Nguyen.
“However, the scale of these measures made them feel more immediate and unsettling, especially knowing that complete and partial suspensions affected such a large number of countries.”
When visa restrictions first went into
Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar
place last year, Nguyen, who is Vietnamese, was made aware through an email from the International Students and Scholar Services Office.
“They did not affect me personally, but I do think they contributed to creating an anxious atmosphere among international students, since there was uncertainty about which country might be targeted next,” Nguyen said.
“I think it is very discouraging. International students will be very dissuaded and discouraged to come and attend school here. It clearly projects that we are not welcome or wanted.”
UH-International student
Travel has become more stressful as well. One Nigerian student, whose identity The Cougar has chosen to protect due to the current political climate, did not go home for Christmas over concerns that they would be denied re-entry to the U.S. Now, they are simply trying to prepare for whatever comes next.
Current visa-holders will not be affected by the new wave of restrictions, but international students must comply with certain enrollment and employment requirements in order to maintain their status.
“I currently work on-campus during the school year, as this is the only employment option legally available to me,” Nguyen said. “I plan to continue working in my current position until I graduate.”
Nguyen echoes this sentiment as well and states that it is past the time when the U.S. is the prime destination for attaining an education.
“At this point, there are many other countries that are more gracious to international students and also offer relatively more affordable tuition,” Nguyen
said. “Unless someone has family in the States, I think there are other opportunities that can adequately serve the purpose of attaining a well-rounded education.”
Funding for research is being upended which creates instability not only for faculty and institutions but also for students who rely on these systems to plan their futures, Nguyen said.
Ultimately, she hopes to see more opportunities for both domestic and international students within the higher education system.
“If higher education in America were trusted and supported more fully, international students would not be so easily targeted or treated as political liabilities,” Nguyen said. “I would like to see more consistent public investment in education and research along with policies that recognize international students as contributors to academia rather than sources of risk.”
news@thedailycougar.com
University officials provide update following back-to-back robberies
JOSHUA VASQUEZ
ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR @_JOSHUA_VASQUEZ_
University officials outlined planned security measures following an armed robbery reported Jan. 7 at the Texas Dow Employees Credit Union inside the Student Center South, the second firearm-related robbery at the branch in recent months. Another incident on Jan. 14 involved a student who was robbed near the Student Disability Center, marking the third incident reported on the University’s campus in the past three months.
University officials said the recent robberies have prompted continued investment in campus safety and security.
UHPD employs more than 235 police and security personnel and conducts 24/7 patrols supported by more than 3,300 security cameras across campus.
UH has accelerated a $21 million campus lighting and security project since March 2025 aimed at improving visibility and safety across campus. The University also encourages students to use safety escorts and Cougar Ride, an on-demand night time transportation service available through the
UH Go app.
The University reported 7.7 violent crimes per 10,000 students in 2024, compared to an average of 16 violent crimes per 10,000 students at peer Texas flagship public universities. The data was provided by UH and could not be independently verified by The Cougar.
As a tenant, TDECU is responsible for security at its financial institution inside the Student Center South and is reviewing its security plans and implementing upgrades.
news@thedailycougar.com
Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar
back to school
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
UH to relaunch Student Government Association ahead of 2026 elections
ANJALI MARTINEZ NEWS ASSISTANT EDITOR
@ANGI3_M415
UH is moving forward with its plans to re-establish the Student Government Association, outlining constitutional reforms, new oversight and changes to the February 2026 elections.
In the spring of 2025, SGA did not pass a new constitution required for the election process after a series of proposed structural changes stalled approval.
As a result, the SGA disbanded and the University is currently working with student leaders to restore the association. Elections for the 62nd SGA are expected to begin January 2026 with plans for a new government body to be finalized by April 1, 2026.
“Student leaders have been heavily involved throughout the process in drafting, reviewing and approving these governing documents, ensuring the new constitution reflects the needs and values of our students,” a University spokesperson familiar with the matter said.
The revised constitution, bylaws and election code were expected to be finalized by Jan. 16.
According to a University spokesperson, the new constitution and bylaws for the SGA were created to eliminate conflicts, maintain effective checks and balances and
align national standards and practices in student governance.
Student representation has continued throughout the process, with students appointed to University advisory committees made by a student-led work group in summer 2025.
Several changes will shape the reformation of SGA for 2026:
• No campaign parties: Candidates may run as either an individual or as president and vice president/ speaker of the Senate ticket. Candidates will focus on their platform and ideas rather than associating with a specific party.
• Vice President serves as speaker of the senate: Intended to consolidate communication between the executive and legislative branches
• College-based senate representation: Removes at-large seats and guarantees representation across academic units
• No negative campaigning: All materials for campaigning will be reviewed by the election commissioner
• Transparent endorsement and appeals processes: Includes studentled reviews of any election violations during the rebuilding period.
According to UH officials, a new advising structure will also accompany the changes. Dedicated advisers will work with each SGA branch in bi-weekly meetings to ensure “coordination, support and accountability.”
This training and developmental program will begin before the start of each administration and continue throughout the year, focusing on governance fundamentals, ethical leadership, University policies and effective student advocacy.
As SGA prepares to relaunch for 2026, students can expect the following key dates as part of the election and transition process:
• Candidate recruitment was expected to start Jan. 14
• SGA presidential and vice president
Town Hall debate: Feb. 23.
• Voting period: March 2-5
• Results announced March 6-13
• New SGA formed April 1
“We’d like to thank our student community for their patience as UH engaged and worked with a variety of student leaders and external stakeholders to collectively revise core governance documents and re-establish a functional SGA,” the spokesperson said. “UH is looking forward to restoring a student government that is credible, functional and trusted.”
news@thedailycougar.com
PRIZES · T-SHIRTS
Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar
CONSTRUCTION
Farish Hall’s demolition leaves behind bittersweet memories
GAURAANGI GUPTA
MANAGING EDITOR
@GAURAANGIGUPTA
Farish Hall has officially bid farewell to the campus right before students begin their spring 2026 semester.
Described as a Brutalist structure, the building was designed in the late 1960s and early 1970s by Morris Architects and was first occupied in 1970.
Now, barren land stands in the place where this building once served as UH’s College of Education for more than 50 years.
“As an education major who is now without a designated building, it is disheartening to know that we no longer have a space of our own,” said teaching
EVENTS
and learning junior Lylian Mai. “All of our classes have been relocated to either the science building or McElhinney. In a sense, it feels as though we have lost a building to call “home.”
Mai expressed that the demolition is inconvenient, especially since there is already a significant amount of construction happening around the campus, making navigation a hassle.
During her freshman year, Mai had just one class in the building, but things changed in spring 2025 when all her classes were held in Farish Hall.
“My favorite room was the Kiva, as the layout of the classroom was ideal for group work,” Mai said. “The classrooms were also small enough to allow students
to get to know one another, which helped create a stronger sense of community.”
Creating a way for the Centennial Plaza to celebrate UH’s 100th year anniversary, the location will now serve as a green space and pedestrian walkway. Adding a new space with greenery reduced the heartache of losing a building filled with memories for students like Mai.
“The idea of adding a green space is something the campus truly needs. While there are a few areas on campus suitable for studying outdoors, they lack natural elements and greenery,” Mai said. “Incorporating this green space would make the campus feel more welcoming and provide opportunities for campus organizations to host outdoor events.”
Lylian Mai, Teaching and Learning Junior
While most students have a bittersweet response to the demolition, the fact that it was a huge part of UH’s history remains true.
Students believe that there could have
been a better way to preserve the history, while also making way for the new project.
“I think there’s a way to respect the past by keeping key mementos and making a display of what was once laid upon the foundation of the newer buildings,” said marketing senior Tierre Landrum. “UH could make the first floor a memorial for the preceding generations so that each student recognizes the past as they proceed forward into the future.”
Landrum’s opinions were shared by many students, especially alumni who expressed similar thoughts and have shared some sweet moments they have had in the building.
“It’s funny I never actually took a single class in that building in four and a half years, but I was involved in an on-campus group and we’d have after-hours meetings in some of the empty rooms,” said hotel and restaurant management 2020 graduate Joel Calvin. “It was a decent building from what I saw, but really the biggest memory I had was watching The Mandalorian in it with friends!”
Students like Mai, who had regular classes at Farish Hall, do agree that the classrooms lacked natural lighting and the exterior of the building was unappealing.
“While part of me wishes that UH had found a way to preserve it, I am glad that the University is beginning to modernize the campus one step at a time,” Mai said.
news@thedailycougar.com
From fashion show to Frontier Fiesta, spring events return to UH
SYDNEY JACKSON
SENIOR STAFF WRITER
As the spring semester begins, a new set of events and socials sprout up for students at UH. Here’s a list of some must-attend events.
Frontier Fiesta
Frontier Fiesta, one of the most studentanticipated events of the spring semester, will take place from April 16 to 18, run by UH students at TDECU Stadium.
The event is the University’s oldest programming tradition, founded in 1939.
Though having a different impression than the first Frontier Fiesta, its core mission to empower the student body and boost school spirit remains.
The 2026 Frontier Fiesta schedule is currently not posted to the public, but in previous years, the event consisted of major musician headliners, student performances, variety shows from student organizations and carnival rides and games.
In addition to the festivities, the University also awards scholarships to students.
Frontier Fiesta is free to the public, with pricing for food and games inside.
Hispanic Alumni Fashion Show
The UH Hispanic Alumni Association, in partnership with the student organization UH Fashion and Business, will host their 8th Annual Hispanic Alumni Fashion Show on Feb. 7 in the Student Center South Houston Room.
The event serves as both a promotion of largely Hispanic, house-based designers and a fundraiser for scholarships for Hispanic students at UH, awarding $500 to $5,000 per student.
Hosted in the evening, the collection displays a mix of riveting traditional Hispanic and cowboy attire, elegant ballgown dresses and edgy, sustainable streetwear.
Early pricing for tickets is at $55 for General Admission and $100 VIP.
Bill Yeoman Golf Tournament
The UH Alumni Association is hosting its 35th annual Bill Yeoman Golf Tournament on Feb. 16.
Held at Sugar Creek Country Club, the tournament helps raise scholarship funds for high school students planning to attend UH and honors UH’s former head football coach Bill Yeoman.
Tickets to play, sponsor or watch start at $25.
Energy Industry Crawfish Boil
The Cullen College of Engineering is hosting its 35th Energy Industry Crawfish Boil on April 19. Cullen College students, alumni, faculty and energy and engineering professionals can network and mingle in Lynn Eusan Park with a crawfish boil.
The afternoon event will also promote and encourage development and advancement in engineering, showcasing student work and STEM activities.
10 Minute Play festival
Wrapping up the school year, the School of Theatre and Dance will host their 13th annual 10 Minute Play Festival May 1-3 in the Quintero Theatre located in the department. The festival is distinctively different from
the previous performances of the academic year.
As the name implies, students will present complex stories, consisting of one set and one scene performances with two to three characters, creating a unique theater experience for the audience.
Tickets are priced at $10 for UH students and $20 for general admission.
news@thedailycougar.com
University of Houston students watch as the demolition of Farish Hall begins on Monday, Nov. 25, 2025 in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar
Greetings from Fiesta City sign at Frontier Fiesta on Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Karolina Navarro/ The Cougar
FOOTBALL
Houston Football’s historic 2025 season recapped
MICAH CLAY & DANIEL CONTRERAS SPORTS EDITORS @MC_5ONE @DANTHESPORTMANS
Throughout the 2025 season, the Houston Cougar football program didn’t just win games but sent a message, reshaping the program into a Big 12 contender.
They finished with a 10-3 record, climbed to the No. 21 position in the nation and won a close bowl game 38-35 against the LSU Tigers under second-year football head coach Willie Fritz.
The Cougars were tested early in the season, facing the future college football playoff-bound No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders in week five. While Houston lost that game 35-11, they were still 4-1, making it a better start than last year. Instead of folding, the Cougars responded with a 3-game winning streak.
They won important games in the Big 12 against Arizona and then-No. 24 Arizona State. Although they lost two games to the TCU Horned Frogs and the West Virginia Mountaineers, Houston didn’t let those two losses derail their season. The losses became fuel to further improve their record and their chances in the ensuing bowl game. Overall, the
Cougars’ season showed confidence against their competition, balance on both offense and defense and composure in executing plays when demanded.
At the center of the Cougars’ offense stood junior quarterback Conner Weigman, who was calm, confident and clutch.
He threw for 2,705 yards, 25 touchdowns, and ran for 700 yards with 11 rushing touchdowns. Throughout the season, Weigman read defenses and protected the ball, giving Houston a quarterback they could rely on.
On the ground, senior running back Dean Connors brought the aggressiveness in the run. Connors bolted for 977 yards and six touchdowns, as well as 254 receiving yards with three touchdowns in the air. Connors used his physicality, consistency and patience to wear defenses down. When Houston needed a big run or a couple of yards, he delivered. Out at wide receiver, junior Amare Thomas was on fire through the air. The Cougars’ No.1 option hauled in 966 yards and 12 touchdowns, creating separation, speed and confidence. Thomas gave other receivers space and opportunities to make a play while almost reaching
1,000 yards, making this season strong. Additonally he was named to the First Team All-Big 12.
Houston’s 6’7 senior tight end Tanner Koziol also made his presence known in the air with 727 yards and six touchdowns. With his height, strength and physical presence, Koziol made it a mismatch for whoever was defending him.
He was also a key player in close games, allowing multiple game-winning drives for the Cougars and ultimately becoming a reliable, secure target for Weigman. Like Thomas, Koziol would also receive the honor of being named to the First-team All-Big 12.
The offense for Houston was electric throughout the year, but on the other side of the ball, the defense dominated and made crucial stops in major gamedefining moments.
The defense allowed only 22 points per game, recorded 28 sacks and tallied 12 interceptions, with two returned for touchdowns. They didn’t rely on chaos but were composed, disciplined and relaxed, shifting the game in their favor and making their presence known to the opposing offenses.
Finally, the man behind it all, secondyear head Coach Willie Fritz, brought this team together to deliver a very successful year for Houston.
Fritz allowed the Cougars to win 10 games for the first time since 2021’s 12-win year, marking a historic season in school history. Fritz also has personal records, as he is now 1-0 all-time against LSU and has had 10-win seasons at five different schools.
His blueprint ensured any team he joined had immediate success. With these impressive feats throughout the season, Coach Fritz cements himself as one of the best coaches in today’s college football landscape.
Overall, the 10-3 Houston Cougars made their mark in college football, and with Coach Fritz at the wheel, this team could be in the college football landscape in the near future.
With 8 transfers earning Big 12 honors, an impressive recruiting class and transfers wanting to join Fritz’s squad, only time will tell where this team will land in their future years of college football.
sports@thedailycougar.com
MICAH CLAY & DANIEL CONTRERAS
Houston head coach Willie Fritz holds up the Texas Bowl trophy to conclude an NCAA football game against LSU, Saturday, December 27, 2025, in Houston Texas. | Matthew Guzman/The Cougar
Cougars set the tone: No.7 Houston cruises past West Virginia 77-48
SPORTS EDITOR
@MC_5ONE
The No.7 Houston Cougars dominated and won a conference game against the West Virginia Mountaineers 77-48 on Jan. 13 at the Fertitta Center, improving to 4-0 in the conference. The night also highlighted Coach Kelvin Sampson’s 400th career game as Houston’s head coach. The Cougars started the first half hot and grabbed the lead as they went up 10-2, showing the Mountaineers why they are ranked No. 7.
Houston would continue to show-
case their dominance on a 10-3 run that denied the Mountaineers any success and left West Virginia to search for answers.
The game stalled briefly for both teams, 15-5, until freshman forward Chris Cenac Jr. banked in two free throws that gave the Cougars a 12-point lead.
The half ended in Houston’s favor, 33-18, but West Virginia cashed in 13 shots in the last four minutes. Houston’s senior guard Milos Uzan would be in the spotlight with eight points and two assists in the first half, as he commanded and controlled the court.
The second half would proceed much
like the first, as Houston banked 15 points in the first two minutes. However, the Mountaineers secured 14 points but still struggled against the Cougars’ defense.
Houston proceeded with dominance and momentum while they gave West Virginia no air, as they won 77-48.
Houston’s senior guard Milos Uzan continued to show out, shooting 55% from behind the arc and scoring 17 points. Additionally, senior guard Emanuel Sharp would score 13 points and snatch two steals.
Freshman guard Kingston Flemings
banked 10 points, seven assists and five rebounds. Cenac would grab 10 rebounds with seven points and two steals.
Houston controlled the Mountaineers in every aspect of the game. With this win, Houston improves to a 117-7 record at home since Dec. 1, 2018, showing that the Feritita Center steals the opposing team’s momentum.
Houston looks to carry this confidence into their next game against the Arizona State Sun Devils on Jan. 18 at the Fertitta Center.
sports@thedailycougar.com
Houston forward Joseph Tugler (11) dunks the ball during the second half of an NCAA men’s college basketball game against West Virginia on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026 in Houston, Texas. | Oscar Herrera/ The Cougar
Houston guard Kingston Flemings (4) drives the ball past West Virginia players in the first half of an NCAA basketball game, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, in Houston Texas. | Matthew Guzman/The Cougar
Houston forward Chase McCarty (24) holds his head in awe of a foul call during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game on Tuesday Jan. 13, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar
Houston guard Emanuel Sharp (21) dives for the ball along with West Virginia forward DJ Thomas (5) and guard Treysen Eaglestaff (52) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game on Tuesday Jan. 13, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar
MICAH CLAY
Are Houston roads ready to host the World Cup?
NASHLY RAMIREZ
OPINION ASSISTANT EDITOR
@NASHLYRAMIREZZ
Houston is known for many things: its food, atmosphere and a melting pot of diversity. On paper, it could be a great contender to host one of the most significant sporting events, such as the International Association Football Federation’s World Cup.
There are just a few obstacles,
though. With ongoing construction, limited public transportation and some of the most notorious traffic in the nation, Houston may not be as prepared for an international audience as it hopes to be.
The World Cup is more than just a sporting event; it also brings millions of fans from all around the world to root for their country. Many of these tourists also come from cities built around efficient
public transportation systems.
Visitors from Lisbon, Amsterdam, Berlin or Kingston will be navigating a city with unreliable public transportation, no subways or major train systems and almost no walkable infrastructure. This results in significant culture shock, which can be expensive and confusing for tourists.
The nightmare that is Houston traffic
For many visitors, this would result in a dependency on Uber or Lyft, whose prices are bound to skyrocket during that busy season. What should’ve been a simple commute to NRG Stadium turns into an exercise in patience as visitors might sit in their $60 Ubers amid standstill traffic.
The World Cup is expected to bring around 500,000 people. Now imagine 500,000 people trying to get around the already trafficfilled city of Houston. For those already struggling in 610 traffic at 4 p.m., this sounds like an absolute nightmare.
Forbes recently examined how a major international sporting event impacted Houston, focusing on traffic patterns and locals’ ability to maintain their daily commutes. During the Gold Cup, which the city hosted this summer, traffic surged just before the game started as many visitors delayed leaving their hotels until the last minute. This sudden influx overwhelmed the road system, a problem made worse by the fact that many international guests were unfamiliar with Houston’s car-dependent layout and complex traffic network.
The city needs to adequately prepare for scenarios like this during such a major event.
What Houston plans to do about this
The good thing is that the city is aware of these issues and is working to fix them before the big event. About $100 million is expected to be invested in expanding the city’s hotels.
As for traffic, METRO is
launching a new bus route connecting George Bush Intercontinental Airport to the George R. Brown Convention Center. The agency is also expanding service to additional areas, including NRG Park. There are also efforts to make the city more walkable for those weeks. The biggest project is the “Main Street Promenade,” which will convert seven blocks into walkable areas and add aesthetic improvements and lighting throughout the city.
If the city can pull this off, Houston will host a fun, vibrant tournament in June, where fans can move easily throughout the city and the local economy reaps the benefits of the event. If not, locals, fans and visitors will be left sitting in traffic or waiting in long lines for transportation, disappointed and frustrated. Hopefully, the city will deliver and prove that Houston is more than the traffic that defines its reputation.
opinion@thedailycougar.com
Lily Huynh/ The Cougar
EDUCATION
How do property taxes define our quality of education?
ALAN ZAMORA SENIOR STAFF WRITER
The school board meeting was unusually crowded. A hot-button education issue was afoot. A typically empty seating area now brimmed with parents talking over one another; the silence that signals contentment was nowhere to be found.
The school district had devised a redistricting plan that would send their children to a different, worse school, rendering years of careful planning about where to live seemingly meaningless.
A quality education should not depend on whether parents can afford thousands of dollars in tuition or on the particular area where a family lives.
Education inequality
Many Americans today are aware of wealth inequality, but few notice the substantial educational imbalance. School ratings and funding are closely correlated with housing prices and tuition, creating an educational barrier for children from low-income households.
Public school funding, to a large extent, is funded by local property taxes. This funding structure means that public schools in low-property-value areas receive less funding.
These areas are often poorer, which puts their schools at a significant disadvantage. Adequate funding is necessary for teacher retention and for classroom resources; without it, school quality suffers.
Public school quality not only shapes housing prices but also increases the property values of households zoned to higherperforming schools. This dynamic further excludes lower-income families from living near strong public schools.
Private school, the class divide
Private schools provide an alternative for higher-income families when their household is not zoned to a strong public school. Lower-income households don’t have the same luxury since the average cost of K-12 private schools in America is $12,970/Year. Private schools often provide lower class size, more funding per student and have substantially better teacher retention.
In the U.S., wealthy families have the privilege of choosing their children’s education, as the cost of undereducation
carries far fewer consequences for them than any tuition price. Underprivileged families, on the other hand, must juggle housing, tuition and school quality, all while the risk of their child being placed at a disadvantage looms over them.
A step backwards
Recently, in the U.S., we have implemented measures defunding public education and educational grants under the guise of freedom of choice and unnecessary bloat.
School vouchers have become a mainstay in many states, such as Florida and Arizona, with advocates arguing they offer expanded school choice and an opportunity for low-income students to attain a higherquality education.
This is a policy that could have its merits if it weren’t shown to be largely ineffective and a ruse to cut public education funding,
while funding private, often religious institutions.
In Texas, state vouchers would provide $10,800 per child, but that falls short of the average Texas private school tuition of $14,906, cutting off many lowerincome families. This shows that the main benefactors of school vouchers are mostly middleincome families or people already enrolled in private schools. Lower-income children who are in the most dire need of tuition funds do not benefit at a high enough rate to justify school vouchers.
Building a fairer education system
It is a much better policy to shift the funding of public schools away from local property taxes and make it more reliant on state and federal funding, reducing educational inequality. In addition, expanding magnet school programs provides more school choice options for students regardless of income.
Education is not simply an issue that affects children; it influences every corner of American society, from higher civic engagement to lower poverty and crime rates. A child’s educational quality should not be limited by their family income, only by their desire to attain academic excellence. The educational policies and politicians we support today shape America’s future prosperity.
opinion@thedailycougar.com
i The Cougar thedailycougar.com
EDITORIAL BOARD
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Cindy Rivas Alfaro
Wendolee T. Garcia
Gather facts before you act. Emotional spontaneity will get you in trouble. Knowing what’s possible and what you can do will help you gain ground this year. Think big while sticking to a budget and your capabilities. Make your home your focal point and use what you have on hand to get things done.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19)
-- Do your homework, follow the proper protocols and stay within budget. Do what you can yourself, but when an expert is essential, don’t scrimp. Use intelligence and consider every angle.
PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -When in doubt, say no. Pursue facts, get the lowdown, enforce rules and regulations, and refuse to spend a penny on anything that you think is unnecessary. Your opportunities will come from patience and paying attention to detail.
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
-- Keep your thoughts to yourself and avoid joint ventures and shared expenses. Look out for your best interests and say no to temptation. Focus inward. Make clarity, adaptability and getting things done your goals.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20)
-- Keep moving. The more time you spend mulling over what to do and how to do it, the more frustrating and unproductive your day will become. Just wing it.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20)
-- Open your mind, try something new and put your energy into new beginnings, creative imagination and making a difference. Fight the battles that mean the most to you instead of working tirelessly for someone else.
CANCER (June 21-July 22)
-- Keep track of your money, possessions and important documents.
You’ll need to make payments or adjustments to avoid penalties. A disciplined mindset and unique approach will pave the way to satisfaction.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Initiate change. Keeping an open mind and finishing what you start will pay off. Partnerships help you address concerns and make a difference in your community. Keep a level head and your eye on your target, and something good will transpire.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Keep moving. What you achieve will depend on how much time, money and effort you are willing to put into your pursuit. Reach out and join forces with other hardworking individuals.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Use your charm to get others to pitch in and help. A lifestyle change that soothes the soul will get you back on
track and ready to take a new direction. Personal growth will broaden your awareness.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -Wait and watch. Time is on your side, and avoiding premature changes will position you for success. Attend events that spark your imagination. Start conversations, listen intensely and observe what others do.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)
-- Get the ball rolling, ask questions, promote and market your skills, and focus on what’s possible. You owe it to yourself to follow your heart and to pursue your dreams. Avoid paying for someone else.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
-- Tone down emotional rhetoric. If you act on gut feelings, you’ll end up backtracking. Refuse to participate in emotional mayhem and instead project a positive attitude. Say less and do more.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The Cougar welcomes letters to the editor from any member of the UH community. Letters should be no more than 250 words and signed, including the author’s full name, phone number or e-mail address and affiliation with the University, including classification and major. Anonymous letters will not be published. Deliver letters to N221, University Center; e-mail them to letters@thedailycougar.com; send them via campus mail to STP 4015; or fax to (713) 743-5384. Letters are subject to editing.
ABOUT THE COUGAR
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Aretha Franklin or Ray Charles
Therapist’s org.
Already cut, as lumber
Child’s pose, e.g.
Narrated by the protagonist, or a hint to the start of 18-, 24-, 41or 51-Across
Highest point value for a Scrabble tile
One might use acid
Toward the sunrise
Texter’s “Holy cow!”
Nashville honors, familiarly
Crock-Pot creation
Title for MLK
Standing guard
Declare confidently
Divulge
Traveler’s lodging
Arts supporters
Feature of an empty house
Place for gardening tools 33 Hefty volume
Date with a doc
Tropical tuber
Alaskan cruise, say
Flexible card in blackjack
Talent
Apt anagram of “aye”
Open grazing area
Not that many
Bread served with hummus
Story trajectories
Wineglass feature
Librarian’s rebuke
“Blueberries for ___” (kid-lit classic)
Pac-12’s Beavers
blowing a kiss, for example
Sanctuary
Maker of Bubble Bath nail polish
Drag accessory
“Pardon me,” in Palermo
Shish kebab need
Angry cat’s sound
Seek answers