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Feature Service

Each month, the UNT News Service creates and distributes the feature service. All stories from this service may be printed verbatim in newspapers and magazines. When available, photos are provided to accompany the stories, and may also be downloaded for use in publications.

April 2008

Sleepless Nights UNT researchers seek to help students with insomnia.

UNT, Freescale Semiconductor join forces to promote engineering careers to high schools students UNT's College of Engineering and an Austin company, are creating a new program to encourage high school students to pursue careers in engineering.

Suiting Up North Texas alumnus keeps professional athletes, regular guys looking their best.

February 2008

Pulitzer Prize winner N. Scott Momaday headlines UNT's 4th Annual Mayborn Conference This year's conference keynote speaker is N. Scott Momaday, the current poet laureate of Oklahoma and a Pulitzer Prize winner.

UNT researchers developing polymers for non-stick cooking without toxic adhesives Researchers seek to develop a new, safer non-sticking cooking surface to replace the current generation surfaces that potentially can emit a suspected carcinogen.

University's Bilingual Certification Program helps address shortage of teachers The population of students learning English has increased 113 percent in the last decade, making bilingual teacher recruitment a priority for Texas.

UNT student success program focuses on mentors, campus involvement in addition to financial support The Emerald Eagle Scholars program provides more than financial aid to students - they're also provided with campus mentors and must agree to work in campus jobs and become involved in campus activities.

Super Bowl advertisers will benefit from female viewers, YouTube effect An advertising professor's thoughts on the commercials for this year's Super Bowl.

January 2008

Texas Center for Digital Knowledge at UNT to store course materials for Texas colleges and universities The grant supports an online database that can store and make course materials accessible to faculty at public universities and colleges across the state.

UNT leads a national revolution in teaching, learning UNT's Next Generation course redesign program, which is improving the way that large lecture courses are taught.

Texas State Historical Association selects University of North Texas as new home The Texas State Historical Association selecting UNT as its new home, after being housed for decades at the University of Texas at Austin.

Magazine names UNT as top choice for Hispanic students UNT’s recognition as a top university for achievement by Hispanic students from Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education magazine.

University faculty member creates encyclopedia covering American Jews' experiences The first encyclopedia to explore the experiences of American Jews in depth, as co-edited by a UNT faculty member.

Zappa University Musician Arthur Barrow practiced for years with one goal in life: to play for Frank Zappa.

December 2007

Professor of addictions offers tips for kicking bad habits as New Year's resolutions Advice from the director of UNT's addictions degree program to those who want to break bad or unhealthy habits for their New Year's resolutions.

Most North Central Texas residents planned to get flu shots this year, UNT survey says The results of a flu shot survey from the UNT Survey Research Center.

Merchandising students list top 10 gifts for 2007 The top 10 Christmas gifts for 2007, as compiled by students in a graduate-level Merchandising Strategies course at UNT.

University professor creates podcasts for course textbook UNT nutrition professor Dr. Priscilla Connors is creating podcasts for her internet course.

Foreclosure relief plan more exclusionary than helpful to homeowners, real estate professor says A real estate professor's thoughts on the new foreclosure relief plan that could assist 1.2 million homeowners nationwide.

Universities, school district receive federal grant to address teacher shortage Award allows UNT to financially support students preparing to teach in high-need schools - those in which 40 percent of students are eligible for free or reduced lunch subsidies.

November 2007

University professor lives in student residence hall under faculty-in-residence program The program is designed to connect students' academic development with their personal development by making faculty members more accessible to students outside of the classroom.

Avoid top 10 spending mistakes when buying holiday gifts The top 10 mistakes that shoppers tend to make when budgeting for and buying holiday gifts, according to the staff at UNT's Student Money Management Center.

UNT computer programming students place first at regionals to qualify for international programming competition A group of student computer programmers from the University of North Texas has qualified for an international computer programming contest in Canada.

University selling items with albino squirrels for holiday gifts Items featuring UNT's legendary albino squirrels that are being sold on campus just in time for holiday shopping.

Motorola Foundation grant will let Robocamp hit the road The University of North Texas will take "Robocamp" to the school districts to help female secondary school students learn about careers in engineering.

Oral History Program includes Norman Mailer's war time remembrances The UNT Oral History Program's interview with author Norman Mailer, has preserved Mailer's wartime experiences beyond what readers will find in his first novel, "The Naked and the Dead."

University researcher receives grant from U.S. Air Force to fund development of new "liquid crystals" The research could result thinner and more flexible video screens in the future.

University percussion ensemble to perform in France UNT's Percussion Ensemble, which will perform in Paris later this month at the PerKumania Festival hosted by the prestigious Paris Conservatory of Music.

High price of oil has benefited some of Texas economy, but will affect cost of almost everything, economist says A UNT economist's thoughts about the economic impact of high oil prices for Texas and the rest of the United States. The prices reached close to $100 a barrel this week.

Innovative money management center wins state award The University of North Texas Student Money Management Center has received the 2007 Star Award from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

What's that in the sky? UNT astronomy lab program director says it's an unusual comet University astronomy lab director says it's an unusual comet that is expected to remain visible to the naked eye for another two weeks.

October 2007

Partnership allows students to earn ESL master's degrees from UNT, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México A new master's degree program in English as a second language that UNT began this fall allows students to simultaneously earn the degree from UNT and the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México in Toluca.

UNT one of three Texas universities named to America's 100 Best College Buys For the twelfth year in a row, the University of North Texas has been named to the list of America's 100 Best College Buys®,

Comic success A move to the suburbs made "Over the Hedge" a winner for Denton native T Lewis.

Hot rod artist, Texas native finds success on TLC's Overhaulin' An East Texas native and UNT graduate who is finding fame by creating custom cars and motorcycles on TLC and SPEED Network.

Iraq unlikely to remain democracy, pave way for peace in Middle East, political scientists say Two UNT political scientists' research on imposed democracy suggest that if history repeats itself, however, Iraq will not remain a democracy.

Art show part of Fine Arts Series discussion of race relations As part of a multidisciplinary event on race relations, the College of Visual Arts and Design presents a new series of mixed media drawings by artist Zoe Charlton that explore social and racial interactions.

Texas Instruments researcher to direct UNT Center for Advanced Research and Technology As director, J.D. Luttmer will coordinate and maximize the center's use by the UNT community, industries and the federal government.

Caseload in new Supreme Court term will focus on voter rights, detainment of foreign nationals A UNT political scientist’s opinions about the cases being decided by the Supreme Court this term that will be the most significant to Americans.

September 2007

UNT Criminalistics Certificate program receives forensic comparison microscope The Houston Police Department Crime Laboratory donated the microscope in recognition of the high quality of UNT’s criminal justice program.

UNT to expand software development partnership with National Science Foundation grant $10,000 National Science Foundation planning grant will allow the University of North Texas to expand its current partnerships in a net centric software consortium that also involves UTD, UTA and SMU

NSF grant funds cutting-edge modeling work that could lead to smaller, more powerful electronics A UNT assistant professor of computer science and engineering has received a three year National Science Foundation grant to study the power and performance of digital systems through computer aided design modeling.

International piano competition hosted by UNT professor draws talented students Piano prodigies will gather in Dallas for the prestigious Viardo International Piano Competition, presented by Vladimir Viardo, UNT professor of music and artist-in-residence.

UNT to offer bachelor's, master's degrees in biological and environmental engineering The program, which will offer bachelor's and master's degrees beginning with the fall 2008 semester, will focus on issues such as engineering applications that address climate change and sustainability.

College of Music students, faculty perform at Austria's Salzburg Festival This year, the College of Music was well represented by two students and a faculty member in the musical life of this city.

August 2007

Professor receives NSF grant to study global work teams that develop and write computer software A UNT professor's research on the performance of student work teams in four countries as the teams write computer software. The research is being funded by a nearly $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation.

Exhibit to present fashion designs of Texan Michael Faircloth An exhibition of fashions by UNT alumnus and Dallas resident Michael Faircloth, sponsored by UNT’s Texas Fashion Collection Sept. 21 through Dec. 21.

University to sell academic calendar for students featuring campus' legendary albino squirrels An academic calendar for UNT students that will feature the three legendary albino squirrels who have made their home on the UNT campus since 2000. The squirrels have become unofficial UNT mascots.

Mattel's response to toy recall good, but will hurt the entire toy industry, professor says A marketing professor's opinion about Mattel's response to a recall of more than 18 million Chinese-made toys, which comes almost two weeks after a recall of an additional 1.5 million toys made in China.

University to provide training in American history teaching to Irving school district teachers Project Building Excellence in History Teachers, a program of UNT’s Center for Teaching, Learning and Assessment to develop, implement and strengthen the teaching of traditional American history as a separate academic subject in public schools.

UNT joins other universities in offering master's degree in electrical engineering A new master's degree in electrical engineering that will be offered by the UNT College of Education beginning this fall.

UNT professors receive National Science Foundation award to research flooding and watersheds in urban areas The research involves optical remote sensing technology used to develop digital terrain elevation models of flooding in urban environments. The professors hope to determine how various watersheds leak over to each other, to predict flood damage before it happens.

University establishes first endowed professorship named after African-American woman in Texas An endowed professorship established by the UNT School of Library and Information Science to honor a longtime educator and advocate of children’s literacy on her 100th birthday. The Hazel Harvey Peace Professorship is the first at a four-year, public university in Texas to be named for an African-American woman.

University acquires $1.5 million pipe organ The installation of the Richard Ardoin-Paul Voertman Concert Organ in UNT’s Murchison Performing Arts Center. When completed at the end of this year, the organ will have 3,820 pipes and will span 28 feet in width and 37 feet in height. Preview performances on the organ will begin during the spring 2008 semester.

University students in documentary filmmaking program find inspiration wherever they look The UNT Department of Radio, Television and Film’s master of fine arts degree program that emphasizes documentary film production. It is the only graduate program of its kind offered at a Texas college or university.

July 2007

University of North Texas receives funds to add to National Digital Newspaper Program UNT will receive a National Endowment for the Humanities grant to add to the National Digital Newspaper Program, a long-term effort from NEH and the Library of Congress to develop an Internet-based, searchable database of historic U.S. newspapers.

French Chef Extraordinaire. UNT graduate and San Antonio native Andrew Weissman made his dream come true, once he knew what it was A San Antonio native and UNT alumnus who became an international star after he discovered that cooking, not broadcast journalism, was his true calling. He now owns an acclaimed French restaurant in San Antonio

Children who shunned reading before "Harry Potter" can turn to other fantasy literature after final book released The opinions of two UNT faculty members - both experts on children’s literature - on the appeal of the "Harry Potter" series, and what children may read after the final book in the series, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," is released this weekend.

Timing of Bush's commuting of Libby's prison sentence surprising, but not unexpected, political scientist says A UNT political scientist's thoughts on the timing of President Bush's commuting of the prison sentence of former White House aide I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby.

UNT to offer summer academy for future bilingual teachers A weeklong summer program that UNT is offering for high school and community college students who would like to become teachers of bilingual elementary school students.

UNT graduate performs on "America's Got Talent" A UNT graduate from Richardson, Texas, who is appearing on "America’s Got Talent" on NBC as one of the 3 Redneck Tenors. The classically trained singers, billed as "Greater Tuna meets Das Barbecu," are going on to the next round of the talent competition and will be on the show next Tuesday, July 10.

June 2007

Long-term sales of pricey iPhone unclear despite media blitz, marketing professor says A marketing professor's opinion about the prospect for long-term sales of the pricey iPhone, which is being unveiled this Friday, June 29, after a six-month marketing campaign.

Book town of Archer City inspires University of North Texas writing class A UNT writing class that is being held for three weeks in July in Archer City, hometown of Pulitzer Prize-winning author and UNT alumnus Larry McMurtry. Offered by UNT's Mayborn Graduate Institute of Journalism, the class allows students to explore Archer County's ranches, cafes and McMurtry’s "Booked Up" - billed as the largest antiquarian bookstore in the country - while searching for inspiration for stories.

Logo for 2012 Summer Olympics in London misses the mark, communication design expert says A communication design professor's thoughts on the recently unveiled - and controversial - logo for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

UNT’s student investment group provides education in stocks for students of all majors The Student Investment Group at UNT, which is open to undergraduates and graduate students of all majors. Students in this group buy and sell stocks from a cash account of more than $195,000, which was liquidated from a donation of life insurance and annuities from a retired colonel in Austin.

Take control of your inbox to avoid "e-mail bankruptcy," computing expert says A computing expert's tips for managing a large amount of e-mail messages and avoiding e-mail "bankruptcy" - deleting all messages and swearing off e-mail in frustration.

Texas' past is just a click away via Portal to Texas History created by university The Portal to Texas History, one of the most comprehensive Internet sites to explore the state’s past. The portal was created by the UNT libraries’ Digital Projects Unit to provide access to material from historical societies, archives, museums and private collections in Texas.

May 2007

Students create online concert to carry on art of storytelling Sixteen UNT students who created a storytelling concert - recordings of themselves via digital video telling personal tales or reciting classic tales - on the Internet. The concert will be on the Internet indefinitely for viewing.

Spelling bees not effective teaching tool, education professor says An educator's opinion on the benefits of spelling bee participation for students - a story tied to the start of the annual Scripps National Spelling Bee this week.

Preference for educated, skills immigrants likely to be hotly contested in immigration legislation debate A political scientist's thoughts about the proposed immigration legislation that will be debated in the U.S. Senate next month.

Super Bowl XLV will bring economic revenue, prestige to Dallas-Fort Worth area in 2011, economist says An economist's opinion on the economic impact and other impact of the Dallas-Fort Worth area hosting Super Bowl XLV in 2011. The new Dallas Cowboys football stadium under construction in Arlington was chosen this week for the site of the game.

Falwell will be remembered for theocratic vision for U.S., religion professor says A religion professor's opinion on the legacy of televangelist Jerry Falwell, who died earlier this week.

Legacy of "Star Wars" includes "nostalgic blockbuster" genre, summer movie season, film professor says A film professor's thoughts about the contributions of "Star Wars," which was released 30 years ago this month, to the science fiction genre and summer movie season.

Texas fashion design students to showcase work at fashion fair in mainland China Two UNT students, both Texas residents majoring in fashion design, who were selected to show some of their original designs at an international fashion fair in mainland China beginning later this month.

Generation Y students no slackers about work, university study says Research by a UNT faculty member on the work habits and ethics of Generation Y - those who are currently between 18 and 29 years old.

University finds third albino squirrel on campus A new albino squirrel on the UNT campus - the third albino squirrel found living at the university in Denton since 2002.

Music lover with no ties to University of North Texas gives $1.5 to university An Oklahoma man who gave $1.5 million to the UNT College of Music for its keyboard studies program, despite having no ties to the university other than regularly driving more than 200 miles round trip to UNT to hear piano recitals by students.

Texas congressional bill on religious freedom at school is middle ground, but could be seen as proselytizing A religion professor's and a constitutional law professor's opinions on the Schoolchildren's Religious Liberties Act, which calls for school districts to set guidelines allowing students to express their religious views in "limited public forums" at school events without fear of punishment. The Texas House of Representatives has approved this bill.

Photographers capture beauty of Texas' oldest churches Exhibit of Texas Church Project scheduled at UNT The Texas Church Project, in which five photographers, including a graduate student in UNT's School of Visual Arts, travel the state to capture images of churches that were built in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Selected photos from the project will be on display this month at UNT.

April 2007

Salary gap between men and women still vast 44 years after passage of Equal Pay Act A women’s studies professor’s opinion on a new study commissioned by the American Association of University Women that shows that the gap in pay between college-educated men and women starts soon after graduation and expands over time.

Physical education requirement in elementary, middle school could lead to more active life later on, professor says A kinesiology professor’s thoughts on a bill recently passed by the Texas Senate would require 30 minutes per day of physical education class for kindergartners through eighth graders.

University announces program providing free tuition for students with high financial needs The university’s new Emerald Eagle Scholars program, which will provide full tuition and fees to selected students with family incomes of $40,000 a year or less.

Yearly roof inspections can minimize damage from Texas' severe spring weather, risk manager says A risk management professor’s suggestions on how homeowners can prepare themselves for possible damage to their homes during the spring storm season.

University of North Texas to host high school sophomores at Texas Governor's School this summer The Texas Governor's School, which will be hosted by UNT this June and have a focus on the future of science and technology. The 150 students selected for the school will also take courses to prepare for college and improve their writing, in addition to taking science courses.

Even those with no ties to Virginia Tech may experience trauma over shooting, counselor says A counselor's opinion on why this week's mass shooting at Virginia Tech University may impact college students and others who live hundreds of miles away from Virginia and have no ties to Virginia Tech.

Student artists create fashionable accessories for inauguration of university president Broaches and an academic regalia stole created by students in UNT's School of Visual Arts for the formal inauguration of Gretchen Bataille as UNT's 14th president.

Coach helps small-town students find success A former North Texas football player who works with middle and high school student-athletes in a small South Texas town, encouraging them to achieve in school and to consider life outside of their small town.

Effort to pass new Equal Rights Amendment long overdue, says women's studies director The opinion of the director of UNT's Women’s Studies program on House and Senate Democrats reintroducing the Equal Rights Amendment, now called the Women's Equality Amendment.

Empowerment of nursing home employees could lead to better care for residents, study says Two separate research studies by UNT professors that shows that empowering nursing home employees - whether through a union or a self-managed work team - could lead to better care for residents of the nursing homes and more reported complaints before they turn into situations that endanger residents' lives.

March 2007

Friendly fire death of Pat Tillman not accurately reported to Tillman's family. Two military historians’ opinions about the Army's findings in the investigation of the aftermath of the friendly fire death of Army Ranger Pat Tillman. Tillman, a former NFL player, was killed in Afghanistan three years ago.

Day care behavior problems not major concern, child care expert says A child development professor’s thoughts about a recent study rom the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development that found that children who spent large amounts of time in child care centers had more behavior problems than children who spent less time in the centers.

Two-step approach needed to combat asteroid threat, astronomy program director says An astronomer’s thoughts on a potential asteroid threat being discussed this week at NASA-sponsored "planetary defense" conference.

UNT Dallas campus receives $1.1 million grant to help future mathematics teachers. A grant from the Texas Instruments Foundation that will create the TI Math Scholars program to train more qualified students to become mathematics educators. Students must be college juniors who are either currently enrolled at the UNT Dallas campus or planning to transfer to UNT Dallas to qualify for the program.

February 2007

"Flair" skills nets Texas student spot in Legends of Bartending competition A Dallas bartender and UNT student whose skill at flipping drink garnishes, bottles and mixing equipment qualified him for the Legends of Bartending World Finals in Las Vegas this weekend.

University takes steps to protect future musicians from hearing loss Steps that the Texas Center for Music and Medicine, part of the UNT College of Music, is taking to educate students about the risk of noise-induced hearing loss in music ensembles.

Program at University of North Texas assists toddlers with autism by teaching their parents A UNT program that teaches parents of autistic children intervention approaches derived from Applied Behavior Analysis so the parents may help their children learn how to interact with others and master basic skills.

Journalism students' class project makes impact on proposed Taser legislation Research by journalism students on law enforcement’s use of Tasers, or stun guns. The students’ findings, which were published, helped a state representative prepare a proposal to limit officers’ use of Tasers.

Name recognition drives media coverage of candidates, but may not be an advantage with start of primaries A political scientist’s thoughts on the increasingly crowded field of Republican and Democrat presidential candidates for 2008, and how media coverage can help or hinder these candidates.

Professor to study Spanish language television and emergency warnings A UNT professor’s research to discover why Spanish language television stations across the United States do not always broadcast severe weather warnings.

Educator says bill to fine parents for missing conferences could alienate parents from schools Thoughts from an expert in education law on a bill in the Texas Legislature that would fine parents who do not attend parent-teacher conferences

Students receive college credit for learning about romantic relationships UNT's "Romantic Relationships" course - in which students learn about communication, dating, mate selection and marriage. The other stories for this week are:

January 2007

Military historian writes book in response to Iraq war A story about a military historian's book on the history of U.S. military force from World War II to the current war in Iraq, and the motives people and governments used to wage war, the discord among military personnel, the flawed political policies that guided military strategy, and the civilian perceptions that characterized each conflict. The historian wrote the book, called "The American Culture of War," in response to the U.S. military’s failure to capture Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan.

Proliferation of information about sports statistics may cause overconfidence in those who bet on teams Information from an addictions professor on how reading player and team statistics can cause overconfidence in those who gamble on the outcome of big games like the Super Bowl.

Controversy may result in big payoff for Super Bowl ad, professor says An advertising professor's thoughts on the ads that will be broadcast during this year's Super Bowl and which ones will be the most effective. A former copywriter for a Dallas advertising agency, the professor also analyzes past Super Bowl ads.

Changing roles after coaching can be a challenge A sport psychologist’s thoughts about Bill Parcells retiring from coaching professional football, and leaving the Dallas Cowboys after four seasons, and how the team could react to a new coach.

University employees care for stray, feral cats on campus, provide low-cost neutering service for employees’ pets UNT’s Feral Cat Rescue Group, which began to address the problem of more than 100 wild and stray cats living on the UNT campus. In addition to trapping the cats and taking them to veterinarians for sterilization, the group offers a low-cost spaying and neutering program for students’ and employees’ pets.

Recycling leads to high fashion for UNT students UNT fashion design students who create new garments from old clothes, guitar picks and other recycled materials.

Businesses' decision to accept foreign currency represents good customer service, professors agree An economist's and a marketing professor's opinions about a Dallas-based pizza chain that is accepting Mexican pesos for payment as well as American money.

Chicken embryos and zebrafish help biologists understand oxygen deprivation, blood clotting Research by two UNT biologists that may help to explain how human respiratory and cardiovascular systems develop and the impact of lack of oxygen on a developing human fetus and blood clotting inside a vessel.

Program creates paths to new futures A program that UNT started at a predominantly Hispanic high school in Dallas to introduce students to the health science professions and help to break the cycle of Hispanics being underrepresented in those professions.

Teams can turn losses into motivation, sports psychologist says A sport psychologist's opinions about steps that the Dallas Cowboys and other teams that have ended their seasons with devastating losses can take to bounce back the next season.

Golden Globe nominees reflect contemporary political issues, professor says A film professor's thoughts about the films nominated for this year's Golden Globe Awards, which will be presented Jan. 15, and if any of the nominees will be nominated for Academy Awards later this month.

Sediments help track tsunamis through time,according to research by university geographer A geographer who studies storm surge deposits left by hurricanes and sediments left by ancient tsunamis on the Pacific Northwest coast of the U.S. His research may contribute to improved preparedness for future hurricanes and tsunamis.

December 2006

PACCAR Foundation gift of $1.5 million will benefit University of North Texas engineering college A $1.5 million donation from PACCAR Inc., a multinational transportation and technology company, to the UNT College of Engineering. The gift will create permanent endowments to establish the PACCAR Technology Institute at the UNT Research Park, which houses the College of Engineering, and a professorship.

Researchers reach the Holy Grail of computational chemistry Two chemists' work in computational chemistry, which translates results of theoretical chemistry into computer programs to calculate the structures and properties of molecules and solids.

UNT libraries a partner with the U.S. National Archives The CyberCemetery maintained by the UNT Libraries to preserve web sites and electronic publications that were published by now-defunct U.S. government agencies and commissions. It is the only CyberCemetery in the nation

UNT among few universities in Texas to offer advanced study of Arabic UNT’s minor in Arabic language - one of the few advanced level programs in the language offered at a Texas college or university.

Tenor's quitting performance amid boos understandable, voice professor says A voice professor’s opinion about an Italian tenor leaving the stage amid a performance at La Scala when he received boos for his aria.

In cultural context, ethnomusicologists explore of the human experience of music making The research of two UNT ethnomusicologists - faculty members who study music and music making within specific cultures such as that of the people in Ghana and Malawi in Africa.

Evidence of possible past water flow on Mars may lead to further space mission Thoughts by the director of UNT’s astronomy lab program on water possibly existing on Mars during the past seven years, and the outlook for construction of a base on the moon by 2020.

Race-based decisions in education may diminish public confidence in schools, professor says An education law professor's thoughts about the Supreme Court's review of voluntary integration plans in public schools in Seattle, Wash., and Louisville, Ky.

Pessimism in Iraq study indicates failure of war, military historian says A military historian's opinions about the Iraq Study Group report's recommendations for changes in the military strategy in Iraq.

November 2006

Convenience has made gift cards a preferred gift for many givers, marketing expert says A marketing experts' opinions about why gift cards, which were once considered gifts of last resort, are increasingly becoming preferred gifts.

Clear Channel buyout a surprising case, media professor says A media professor's thoughts about Clear Channel Communications, the nation's largest radio operator, being acquired by a pair of private equity firms.

Students to visit Mexico to experience the nation's real estate market firsthand Graduate real estate students traveling to Mexico in December to learn about the real estate in the nation, thanks to UNT alumni who paid for almost all of their airfare, food and lodging.

Pelosi will face test as new House speaker, but not entirely because of her gender, professors say A political scientist’s and a women’s studies professor’s thoughts on the obstacles that Nancy Pelosi may face as the first woman speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Ordinances passed to curb illegal immigration differ by legal arguments, professors say Two professors’ opinions about the legality of ordinances passed by the city council of a Dallas suburb that are aimed at curbing illegal immigration.

Stick to a list when buying holiday gifts, Tips from a merchandising professor about smart shopping and sticking to a shopping budget this holiday season.

Rumsfeld's resignation almost inevitable, UNT military historian says A military historian’s thoughts on the events that led President Bush to accept Donald Rumsfeld’s resignation as defense secretary this week.

Cooking Thanksgiving dinner for a crowd doesn’t have to be complicated Advice from the manager of UNT’s student-run restaurant, who is also a former chef, about creating Thanksgiving dinner for a crowd with minimum hassle.

Film student producing documentary about growing up in war-torn Beirut A UNT film student’s experience with being back in her hometown of Beirut this summer when war erupted between Lebanese Hezbollah and the Israeli Army - and her decision to create a documentary about growing up during a war for her master’s thesis film.

Economics professors examine potential impact of Supreme Court case on electricity in rural America A study by two economists that could play a key role in the argument of a Supreme Court case on electricity in rural America. The case was scheduled to be argued before the Court this week.

More research needed to prove same-sex schools are beneficial, educator says Two educators’ thoughts about whether same-sex classrooms are beneficial to students. The Bush administration is giving public schools wider latitude to teach boys and girls separately under new guidelines issued by the U.S. Department of Education.

Raising minimum wage won't help average worker,university economist says An economist's opinion about five states’ proposed minimum wage increases, which are on the state ballots this month.

October 2006

Extremes of high, low notes and unusual harmonies result in scary music, musician says A music professor's opinions what makes certain pieces of music spine tingling and perfect for Halloween parties.

Cursive handwriting falling by wayside, educator says An educator’s thoughts on the increasing disappearance of cursive handwriting instruction in schools.

University of North Texas opens center for Spanish media UNT's new Center for Spanish Language Media, which will be launched this fall as one of the first comprehensive training and research programs to meet the growing demand for Spanish-speaking media professionals throughout Texas and the United States.

Educator in the Wilderness University of North Texas graduate teaches fire starting, mammal tracking and didgeridoo playing

Supreme Court decisions this term will indicate new justices' ideological positions Three political scientists' thoughts on the new Supreme Court term, which began last week, and how decisions on certain cases will showcase the new justices' political ideologies.

Former college quarterback leads his business to presidential award for excellence An automobile dealership owner in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and former college quarterback, who, as the "quarterback" of his business, put together a staff that led to the dealership winning a Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation's highest presidential honor for performance and organizational excellence.

Parents should hide own fears while discussing school violence, counseling professor says Tips from the director of UNT's Child and Family Resource Clinic on how to discuss media coverage of violence in schools with children and respond to their fears.

University of North Texas to host national fashion competition judged by world-renowned designers A national student fashion competition that UNT will host later this month. The students will hold a fashion show, open to the general public, to close the competition.

UNT receives $450,000 federal grant for suicide prevention programs A federal grant that UNT received to develop training programs to respond effectively to students with mental health problems that may lead to suicide attempts. UNT was one of 34 colleges and universities in the U.S., and one of two in Texas, to receive the grants from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Thinking big by looking small University upgrades capability of atom probe tomography microscope

September 2006

Declining ratings prompted advertisers to drop "Survivor" An advertising professor's opinion on why certain companies will no longer advertise on "Survivor," which premieres tonight after producers made the decision to dividethe teams by race.

Hewlett-Packard created trust problems by spying on board members, journalists to track media leaks A management professor's thoughts on the chairwomen of Hewlett-Packard-s board of directors obtaining telephone records of board members and journalists to look for media leaks.

Political scientist says lower female voting rates in Texas linked to low voter turnout in general in state A political scientist’s opinions about a study from the Institute for Women’s Policy Research that places Texas 49th out of 50 states in the percentage of women who voted in the 1998 and 2000 elections.

August 2006

"Stealth marketing" latest way for businesses to reach young consumers, says UNT professor "Snakes on A Plane" buzz latest example A marketing professional's thoughts about "viral marketing" -marketing of a movie or product that relies on blogs and websites to reach the target of teens and young adults.

Altering cartoons not a complete answer to curbing smoking among young people, professor says An addiction professor’s opinion about Hanna-Barbera removing scenes that glamorize smoking from its classic cartoons, following a complaint to a British media regulator.

Definition of "planet" changing, says director of astronomy laboratory program A UNT astronomer's thoughts on the International Astronomical Union's proposed change to its definition of what is considered a planet. The IAU will decide on a new definition before its meetings end Aug. 24.

Foiled terrorist attacks could lead to businesses reassessing need for travel, risk management expert says A risk management expert's opinion on companies' possible reassessment of the need for their employees to travel in the wake of last week’s foiled terrorist attacks against U.S.-bound airplanes.

Radio-television-film professor receives look at war while filming documentary A documentary filmmaker's experience of watching the war between Israeli and Hezbollah forces unfold while she was near Lebanon's border on a planned shoot of her latest documentary.

America Online had no choice but to restructure, marketing professional says A marketing professional's opinion about America Online's plans to cease marketing of its subscription service in favor of an Internet-based business supported by advertising.

School uniforms equalize students, education professors say Two education professors' thoughts on the use of school uniforms, and how the uniforms equalize students and lead to more time for teaching and learning.

July 2006

Book provides lesson plans focusing on bullying A book by an education professor, provides lesson plans that school counselors or teachers can use to increase the self-esteem of students who are bullied, and help them deal with anger.

Honors College student overcomes learning disability to graduate with a perfect 4.0. grade point average

Sales tax holiday a win-win for retailers, shoppers, merchandising professor says A merchandising professor’s thoughts about the upcoming annual sales tax holiday in Texas.

Linguist preserving Western Apache language A linguist and UNT adjunct professor who is preserving the Western Apache language by creating a searchable digital archive of Western Apache texts.

Expectations of empty nest syndrome often worse than reality, psychologist says

University students soak up Zappa this summer

Pirates of the Atlantic flourished 100 years after traditional end set by historians

Popularity of flip-flops as all-purpose casual shoe will decline, professor says

Winner of Mexico's presidential election must form coalition to make new policy

June 2006

Equations with vacation SixtyTexas students to attend math camp at UNT

Repair tests crucial to survival of space shuttle program

Warfare tactics from British, not those of tribes, helped Americans win War of Independence, historian says

Summer camp addresses shortage of bilingual teachers in Texas schools

"Grandma" nickname is more of a slogan for Strayhorn,

North Korea's plans to test a long-range missile

Investigation into Marine Corps' involvement in civilian deaths must be thorough to avoid harm to war effort in Iraq, military historian says

Professor writes book on Bush’s "towel snapping" of media

May 2006

Cutbacks in PE class time could have long-term impact on children

April 2006

University students ace tests, improve grades with help from peer tutors

Adjustable rate mortgages causing financial heartache, professor says

Criticism of Rumsfeld by generals reflects historical tension between military and civilians

Chernobyl nuclear accident helped change world politics, professor says

Houston native pens story of Iraqi boxing team

Religion professor says "Gospel of Judas" provides interesting perspective on early Christianity

Rising gasoline prices not high enough to reduce summer consumption, economist says

New MBA graduates can expect more job choices, higher salaries than 2005 graduates

Director of astronomy lab program comments on NASA Dawn mission

Words of Wisdom As Baby Boomers turn 60, experts offer advice about aging

March 2006

Cooking illiteracy forcing cookbook publishers to simplify recipes

Proposed U.S. immigration policy providing valuable lessons, education professor says

Have your book and eat it too at university's Edible Book Festival

University to open astronomy center in North Central Texas region

Finding on high school students' reading skills is indication of new population taking college tests

Merger of phone companies could stifle innovation in telecommunication, professor says

Inner-city San Antonio is spring break destination for some university students University of North Texas students to spend week off doing community service

Getting out of debt is first step to building up savings, finance professor says

Art professor receives grant to continue search for modern Iraqi art lost after bombings

UNT names its own Eagle Idol San Antonio resident takes top prize in contest modeled after "American Idol"

February 2006

Radio Shack must be aggressive in rebounding from ouster of CEO

Literary nonfiction conference sponsored by UNT to offer unknown authors book contract, cash prizes Submission deadline is June 1

Literary symposium at University of North Texas to offer lectures from prominent Texas authors Literature from the Lone Star State will be the topic of discussion April 5 with authors Frank Thompson, Elmer Kelton, Robert Flynn and John R. Erickson.

Aftermath of Sept. 11, 2001, had adverse impact on government's response to Katrina, expert says

Graduate of Texas university, medical school to compete in 2006 Iditarod Sled Dog Race in Alaska UNT alumnus from Big Lake, Alaska has taken with the dogs from his kennel to compete in this year's race

Relationship counselors give advice for finding -- and keeping -- love Two relationship experts say even struggling couples can keep the romance alive all the time - not just on Valentine's Day.

Recent findings on low-fat diets won't mean cuts in restaurant menu choices, nutritionist says

New anthology from University of North Texas Press celebrates state's nature through essays

Advertising professor gives thoughts about Super Bowl ads His students will study commercials for class discussion

Journalists embedded in Iraq need to dig below surface, ask tougher questions, says military historian Journalists concerned with their marketability, hesitate to make any strategic judgment about what they are seeing

"Brokeback Mountain" the latest in queer cinema to be recognized for Oscars, film historian says Though some may see "Brokeback Mountain's" success at winning and being nominated for awards, including eight Academy Awards, as a breakthrough for movies with gay, lesbian and bisexual themes, UNT film historian Harry Benshoff says it's the latest in a trend of movies that are increasingly recognized at awards shows for their depiction of complex gay and lesbian characters.

January 2006

University of North Texas group takes leadership role in national program addressing sexual harassment of student Nearly two-thirds of college students nationwide are sexually harassed,says most comprehensive national research to date

On the border University of North Texas initiative transforms library service along the Rio Grande

University student wins international prize for gloves constructed from beer cans Inessah Selditz's stylish red gloves inspired by origami and made of beer cans earned her an award of best accessory from the United States

Sport psychologist to assist mogul ski team at Winter Olympics in Torino Karen Cogan will be one of several sport psychologists on hand to provide support to members of the U.S. Freestyle Mogul Team and their coaches when the mogul competition begins Feb. 11.

Finger scans can now buy food at university UNT selected as one of two campuses in the nation to use new biometric finger-image technology.

Artist depicts personal struggle with dyslexia

An entertaining career With Jackie Gleason's help and the flip of a coin, Longview native sang and danced her way to Hollywood

Texas student to appear on "Montel Williams Show"

High school student research World War II cavalry with UNT's Oral History program Students pushed legislation to honor veterans

UNT Expert on the Future of Israel without Sharon's leadership After suffering a massive, life-threatening stroke, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is unlikely to return to politics.

Plano computer analyst has second career as Texas Poet Laureate

University of North Texas senior rallies neighbors to fight wildfire Emergency management student puts lessons to good use

Expert offers tips to resist addictions During this first week of 2006, many Texans have probably vowed to kick bad habits that have been clouding their lives -- whether it's drinking too much, smoking, overeating or taking drugs.

December 2005

Student to graduate from university more than 50 years after starting degree

UNT Press offers ideas for holiday gifts

Animal therapy provides way for pet owners to honor pets Put your pet's photo on the Center for Animal Assisted Therapy web site with a donation of any amount.

Making a better nonstick frying pan Polymer researcher Witold Brostow says that, among plastics, nonstick and scratch-resistance are almost mutually exclusive properties, but that may soon change.

Narnia's myth-like qualities hold universal message Viewed by many scholars as a fairy tale with Christian symbolism, the beloved tale by C.S. Lewis also has mass appeal.

Labor of love: Art prof Eric Ligon opens world of books Thanks to his dad’s ingenious design, Ethan Ligon can share a Braille book with his sighted brother and the rest of his family.

Earth, wind and fire: Predicting the path of a wild one A GIS expert can determine the path of a grass fire, making it possible to warn nearby residents before fire threatens their home.

Hurricane history may lie in Louisiana marshlands Geographer Harry Williams will study marshes along the Texas-Louisiana border for evidence of past tsunamis and hurricanes, and try to discover whether their deposits can be distinguished.

Artist begins painting after losing sight English major John Bramblitt took up paintbrushes after he lost his vision, painting his way across the canvas by touch.

November 2005

Murder of Saddam Hussein's lawyers creates no-win situation Despite the assassinations, political scientist James Meernik doesn't believe that Hussein's trial will be moved out of Iraq, although more violence can be expected.

Holiday shoppers: mind those credit card bills With larger credit card payments looming, finance prof John Baen says shoppers can still make wise choices.

Education rolls out $500,000 in full ride scholarships Math and science professionals looking for career change teaching secondary education are eligible for $7,750 annually, starting in spring 2006.

When athletes behave badly A UNT sport psychologist says the recent suspensions of Terrell Owens and Kurt Busch show that athletes are being held to the similar standards as others.

Budding scientist only Texan in Siemens Westinghouse finals Last summer, while other 17-year-olds were working as lifeguards, camp counselors, sales clerks or wait staff, Desh Mohan studied how nematodes adapt to oxygen deprivation.

Gas for Google: Researcher develops fuel for Internet search engine Rada Mihalcea continues research on natural-language processing in information retrieval, thanks to a grant from Google.

Battle over Prop. 2 hinges on definition of "marriage" Communication studies professor Jeffrey Bennett found both common ground and cultural baggage attached to marriage's definition.

Nomination could trigger filibuster, politicial scientists say Professor Wendy Watson notes that, despite several progressive decisions, Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito's staunch anti-abortion dissent in Planned Parenthood v. Casey makes him a lightening rod.

Forcing blooms goes high tech By introducing a specific gene to a leaf, biology professor Bryan Ayre and Robert Turgeon, of Cornell University, caused the Arabidopsis plant to flower out of season.

October 2005

Miers' withdrawal a rarity, political scientist says Corey Distlear points out that 10 other nominess withdrew their Supreme Court nominations for health issues or a scandal, not to save a president continued embarrassment.

Battlefield bravery marks West Texas native's medical career UNT alum Frank Spencer beat the odds to attend college, become a decorated war hero and distinguished cardiac surgeon.

Mapping the spread of avian flu Medical geographer Joseph Oppong says that diseases don't respect boundaries, so helping other countries contain avian flu protects the U.S.

TAMS student snaps up international photo prize Nick Murphy took photos of dragonflies along the creek near his Dripping Springs home and then took home Wildlife Photographer of the Year from the Natural History Museum of London and BBC Wildlife Magazine.

Shedding light on ghostly phenomena Researchers seek ways to inquire scientifically into ghosts and other supernatural claims.

Group takes up RFID technology A tech think tank based at UNT is examining the many ways radio frequency identification could impact the way we live and do business.

Funny business: writers deliver punch lines for DJs Dallas comedy writers Pat Reeder and Laura Ainsworth spark the morning commute through their service, The Comedy Wire.

The Pepper Lady keeps it spicy Author Jean Andrews traveled the globe to research peppers, carving an international reputation with her adventurous spirit.

Parenthood redux Graduate student Leah Bell chronicles children being raised by their grandparents in an award-winning documentary that will show at the Cannes Film Festival.

September 2005

Student identity connected to mobile devices, study finds Students create virtual families in their cell phones and lap tops, making the devices an extension of their bodies.

Drummers find their muse at UNT Although John Bryant and Earl Harvin came to the College of Music in different decades with different styles, each followed his own beat to a successful career.

Reality better than TV for these apprentices Eight students with entrepreneurial dreams learned risk-taking from Dallas business executives.

March 2005

U.S. Marine marches ahead with accounting studies Despite the fact that his unit was deployed in Iraq, Oscar Lopez is on track to graduate with a bachelor's degree. He plans on attending officer candidate school.

College students dependent on cell phones, e-mail An anthropology study finds that students create virtual families in their mobile devices, but lose social awareness.

February 2005

Dallas Diamonds a best friend to devoted athletes Women's professional football national champions this year, the team is a venue for women who played flag football and other sports in high school and college.

Turkish police train in Western criminology at institute The graduate program helps Turkey move toward community-oriented policing in order to better fight organized crime and terrorism.

Setting priorities your first step in time management Expert Katy Goolsby says that knowing yourself and your limits often helps you accomplish more than using the latest personal digital assistant.

January 2005

His old-school values get the job done A child of the Great Depression, Ronald Waranch ('54) made his fortune as a Southern California homebuilder but his commitment to share the wealth made him a Horatio Alger Association winner.

When a co-worker needs your shoulder UNT's senior staff counselor offers ways to listen and be flexible when a colleague has a crisis.

December 2004

Researcher's study of heart proteins targets disease of the young The research of Douglas Root, associate professor of biological sciences, is leading to a better understanding of the most common cause of heart-related sudden death in people under age 30.

Materials science professor invents stronger materials for security vests Rick Reidy, assistant professor of materials science and engineering, developed a lightweight soft body-armor vest — a flack jacket — that stiffens upon impact from high velocity projectiles.

October 2004

An American Original G. Harvey discovers the artist within

UNT computer courses provide cheap training for library staffs during budget cuts The School of Library and Information Sciences is creating an affordable and convenient means to train staff through UNT's Library Education @ Desktop program.

Mapping outbreaks Medical geographer tracks the spread of infectious diseases

September 2004

Low-carb diets compromise overall health, nutritionist says According to nutritionist Juliet Getty, a UNT faculty member, a low-carb diet isn’t healthy because it trades off balanced meals for fats from animal sources as well as foods that are high in protein.

Grant creates program to produce more bilingual librarians for Texas

August 2004

Modern Explorer University photographer follows the footsteps of Lewis and Clark Exhibition to open at Fort Worth's Amon Carter Museum Sept. 25

A Team United Racism brought University of North Texas football players together in 1956

No big changes for fall TV, television professor says With only six new comedies scheduled to premiere on FOX, ABC, NBC and CBS in September, the fall 2004 network television schedule is filled with the familiar.

July 2004

Gender bias still evident in Olympics coverage, study says

Play areas, Texas atmosphere among desired features at D-FW airport, study finds

Libraries offer cure for summer boredom

May 2004

Burning issues Technology and tradition unite to help fight fires

Waiting to Inhale Hot time in the city can mean too much ozone in the air

UNT expert says Brown v. Board of Education altered the foundation and policies of public libraries Though the 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka is known for integrating schools, it also changed the face of public libraries.

April 2004

Flower power UNT biochemists discover new method for preserving cut flowers

Business fun At CI Host, only the interns are younger than the owner, and he's on company No. 3

The Weather Dude Fort Worth native on Weather Channel describes forecasts in song

March 2004

King of Thailand treated to jazz Texas style University of North Texas band performs special concert

Want ads or wake up calls? "Seize the day!" could be the battle cry for many people who have been downsized or terminated from their jobs.

February 2004

Rhythm and rhinestones Dancer finds heart in competitive country dance

University of North Texas digitizes a chunk of black history Graduate students of the University of North Texas School of Library and Information Sciences have been digitizing rare photos of black history icons, as well as well as photos of black life in the United States from the 1940s to the 1980s.

January 2004

UNT students improve quality of life of animals through animal training organization During the past four years, ORCA has worked with the Frank Buck Zoo, Animal Edutainment in Aubrey, Texas, and other sites throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, training animals ranging from La Mancha goats and a lemur to ostriches.

Death defying Forensic anthropologist reconstructs lives

Waking Up With Debbie WFAA-TV's morning anchor

December 2003

Study questions the sizing methods in women's apparel According to a University of North Texas study, women may have a quick fix for those extra pounds before they hit the gym to fit into a certain size — if they’re willing to pay the price.

Costume dramas, offbeat smaller films among 2003's best films Dr. Don Staples, professor of radio, television and film and a member of the Screen Actors Guild, called 2003 a year of many "pretty good, but not great" films.

Joyful Noise Unique classes turn baby sounds into beautiful music

November 2003

UNT professor helping to preserve American films As a member of the National Film Preservation Board, Ben Levin, a University of North Texas professor of radio, television and film, joins others in making recommendations to the Librarian of Congress on possible feature, documentary, experimental, amateur and other films for the registry.

Overcoming the ghosts of Christmas past Banishing the holiday blues

You can have your dessert — just don’t eat too much of it For many, November and December are the months of excess and overeating, but the best option for everyone is moderation, according to nutritionist Juliet Getty, a University of North Texas associate professor of hospitality management.

October 2003

Mental lapses linked to depression in middle-aged and older adults Depression, rather than the effects of normal aging, may be the culprit when an older person forgets how to do routine tasks such as becoming lost on familiar driving routes.

Halloween icon came from witch hunts, historian says Dr. Richard Golden gives his insights into how the witch hunts of past centuries contributed to Halloween images that we see today.

A taste for adventure Teacher's environmental projects inspire students worldwide

September 2003

Sam Moon Madness Marketer turns wholesale into a whole lot of business

NAFTA pumps dollars into Texas economy, but at expense of border cities, economist says Dr. David Molina, director of UNT’s Center for Inter-American Studies and an associate professor of economics, studied the impact of NAFTA on four metropolitan statistical areas, or MSAs, in the Texas border.

Fall colors to adorn Texas soon Different regions, different trees display fall colors across the state

August 2003

Romancing the wind Balloonists dance with Mother Nature

The Battle for Lunch Money Professor warns parents of potentially unhealthy competition for children’s eating environment

Historian debunks myths about American colonial troops' warfare tactics

July 2003

Ghostwerks College friends pool their talents on the way to their comic book destinies

Math E matics Overcoming the fear of math through the language of mathnerds.com

Anti-smoking CD-ROM seen as cool to Texas middle school students

June 2003

Recycling Cyanide Biologist searches for key to detoxifying the poison

Saving Nature's Shaders Botanist working to preserve post oak

Professor says Harry Potter books inspire reading, discussion between children and adults