The University live Bengal tiger mascot is doing well and growing rapidly. Weighing in at about 150 lbs., this large cat is expected to exceed 400 lbs. She was born from a litter of 1.4, one of which was all white. "Pretty Baby II," who was born October 2, 1997, at a mere 10 lbs., near Somerville, Texas, is termed a heterozygous breed. Her coat is uniquely striped with a birthmark of a distinctly patterned, series of circles on her lower underside.
Most are surprised at the sheer size of her large feet. While not tamed, "Pretty Baby II" has charmed students, alumni and faculty alike.
Housed in a nearby rural community, she roams around her cage, rests in her water pool, and plays with gold fish in the nearby pond. She is walked daily and receives a well-balanced diet.
The acquisition of "Pretty Baby II" was the brainchild of Alice Rogers, cheerleader coordinator and student publications manager. In 1997, the homecoming sterring committee met to solidify plans to celebrate the 50th anniversary Homecoming festivities. At that time, the half-time committee chaired by Detria Ward of KTSU worked hard and secured the necessary funds from TSU alumnus attorney Victor "Vic" Bonner.
"Pretty Baby II's" debut was the highlight of the golden anniversary homecoming football game's half-time on Nov. 15, 1997. Temperatures had plummeted. It was frigid, near 32 degrees and a light mist persisted when she was presented by Bonner and Miss TSU, amidst a backdrop of fireworks and fanfare at Rice Stadium. 
"Pretty Baby II" was welcomed with a standing ovation. The office of student activities has been responsible for the tiger's upkeep.
The first group of students responsible for guarding "Pretty Baby II" on her campus visits were Entourage, a group of freshmen males.
The predecessor, "Pretty Baby," was purchased by the Student Government Association according to Joseph Williams, former longtime dean of students. A male, this tiger was seen on campus with coeds holding it and cuddling it. Once he grew larger, Williams negotiated residency for him at the city of Sinton zoo. "Pretty Baby" visited the campus and was seen in the Homecoming parades. Unfortunately, his demise came in the mid 1980s. He reportedly succumbed to old age.
The Ocean of
Soul
During
halftimes at Texas Southern football games, you may notice not many people
leaving their seats. They’re there to
see the performance of the nationally renowned “Ocean of Soul” marching band of
TSU.
The Director of Bands is Richard F. Lee, a native of
Houston, Texas. Assistant Directors are
John P. Henry, Jr., Dr. Paxton Girtmon, and Howard Harris.
The “Ocean” as the band is referred to on the Texas Southern
campus, has thrilled audiences across the country. They have performed on national television and before capacity
crowds in the Houston Astrodome. The
versatile “army” of musicians has performed at track meets, basketball games,
and other functions in addition to football games and parades.
The “Ocean” has gained an enviable reputation for its
thrilling performances, which include the execution of intricate dance
routines.
All members of the band and staff endeavor to achieve
excellence. Their endeavors have been
many times juxtapostional with such individuals as Barry Hall and Rocky White, members of the Distinguished Duke
Ellington Band; jazz singer Anita
Moore; flutist Bobbie Humphrey; James Bolden, first trumpet player with B.B.
King; Don Patterson, principle bass player with the group Sessions, and
celebrated jazz saxaphonist Kirk Whalum.
Jennifer Holliday, who appeared in the Broadway play, “Dreamgirls” has
also been featured with the “Ocean of Soul.”
The spirit of the “Ocean,” the enthusiasm the members have
for their music, and the excellence and precision displayed in their
performance, are in themselves a guarantee that they want to perform for you!!
