by Alissa Davis
Staff Writer
Over the last school year, various members of the University of Houston community have questioned the actions, the ethics, or at least the maturity level of the UH College Republicans.
Filing paperwork to keep the College Democrats registered last semester and subsequently filling the positions with CR members was considered a low blow by some, and CR Vice President Arik Wolf's April 11 Daily Cougar guest column resulted in a barrage of letters complaining about its criticism of the National Organization for Women.
However, CR President Daryl Bevis seems to distance himself from these grade-school tactics graciously while supporting the individuality of their advocates.
"I would have written the (NOW column) differently, but I support anyone who wants to speak up," Bevis said. "If someone has a viewpoint and they would like to express it, I don't see that it's any great harm that they express themselves."
When asked what he would have done differently in the column, Bevis paused and said, "I would have done it more towards those who weren't sure (of their political opinions), not necessarily to sway people, but to put together an article that doesn't offend anybody."
Surprised to find a Republican leader concerned with offending people?
"Daryl is not about causing conflict and stirring up rivalry," said Joseph Burrus, junior management information systems major and CR member.
"That was last semester's group. They were more confrontational."
Bevis said he chose to get involved in CR rather than the Students' Association because he prefers to spend time with people who share that philosophy.
"I like getting involved, but I enjoy doing something for people who feel strongly about those ideals - freedom and individualism," he said.
Bevis is a political science major graduating in May. "I love politics," he said.
In explaining Republican ideology, Bevis referred to the CR mission statement: "(We) strive to provide a forum for those individuals who hold conservative ideals, and who believe in the importance of freedom and opportunity."
However, he included those with liberal ideals as well.
"I definitely want people who believe they are Democrats to have a dialogue with us," he said. "If we feel that they are wrong about some issue, or perhaps we are wrong about some issue, nobody is ever going to change their mind without a constructive dialogue."
Bevis said he plans to study U.S. foreign policy at American University in Washington, D.C., and will work on the application after graduation.
He also has a life outside of CR. He rides a motorcycle (but not when it rains) and practices his musical talents by playing the piano at home and at "open mic nights" around town.
"It's fun to either laugh at the musicians (who go to open mic night) or appreciate them. I don't know if it's 'open mic night' or The Gong Show."
However, Bevis' relaxed attitude only briefly surfaced from his serious, down-to-business personality. "Young people always hold important the freedom in their lives: freedom from their parents, freedom from religion," he said.
"That's what the founders set up for us. That's what the Republican ideology truly believes in. So maybe it's not that uncool to be a Republican."