VOLUME 105, ISSUE NO. 16 | STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916 | RICETHRESHER.ORG | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021
Decrease in COVID-19 positivity rates prompts earlier move-in dates and lifting of restrictions
ISAIAH HWANG have also observed similar trends FOR THE THRESHER in positive tests with a spike over winter break, and decrease Over the past two weeks, COVID-19 over recent weeks. For example, cases on Rice’s campus have been Princeton University reported only decreasing after a spike in positive one positive case the week of Feb. tests from late December until the 5 — a marked decrease compared third week of January. In response to to the 27 and 17 positive tests from this decrease, undergraduates were the two weeks before then. Kirby allowed to move in on campus one said he remains optimistic week earlier, on Feb. 6 and 7, without and confident that cases needing petitions. will continue to decrease Kevin Kirby, chair of the Rice on campus over the Crisis Management Advisory next couple of Committee, said in a recent email weeks. that in-person classroom restrictions and gathering capacity limitations will be eased with classroom capacity being raised to 40 as well as indoor and outdoor group activities of up to 25 and 50 people, respectively, being permitted. Recently, the greater Houston area has also been experiencing slight decreases in positive tests. According to the Texas Medical Center’s COVID-19 Testing Metrics, the week of Jan. 25 had weekly average of 3,509 positive tests in contrast to the average of 4,282 during the week of Jan. 11. During In an email the week of Jan. 31 to Feb. 6, campus on Jan. 31, Dean of testing reported nine positive tests, Undergraduates Bridget while the two weeks before that had Gorman said that due to recent 20 and 38 positive tests respectively. improvement in the COVID-19 “What we are seeing now in situation in Houston, students Houston now is an improving will be allowed to move in on the environment, and we are seeing that weekend of Feb. 6 and 7 in addition ‘My college career fizzled out’: Three reflected in our own numbers as to the original date on Feb. 13 and 14. well,” Kirby said. Kirby said that peer institutions SEE TESTING PAGE 3 alumni talk graduating a semester early
MORGAN GAGE had seen what online classes were going to SENIOR WRITER be like and what a virtual Rice was going to be like and how the in-person experience The Ultimate Guide to Celebrating Although many Rice seniors are eyeing was so different than it was before,” Duffus their May 15 graduation date, Emily Duffus said. “I figured it would be better for me Valentine’s Day in COVID Times (McMurtry College ‘20) transitioned from to just do my research without taking the student to alumnus sooner than she had course through Rice.” JULIA LI & SARAH BARTOS These flowers lean on the pricier side ($65+), expected. Instead of settling into a new Currently living off-campus, Duffus said FOR THE THRESHER but they’re sure to impress that special semester’s schedule these past few weeks, she can still see her friends in the Houston somebody. Fancy Flowers Houston offers she has been working full time at a mobile area, just as she would as an enrolled student. Love is in the air, but so is the novel same-day delivery and online ordering, but urgent care in Houston as a medical However, without classes, she has more time coronavirus. Thus, everyone’s favorite don’t wait till someone snatches your rose! technician and part-time as a contact trader to spend with those friends — along with a Hallmark-sponsored holiday is going to look Who doesn’t want something sweet on with Rice Crisis Management. She spends her break from classes and a chance to make a bit different this Valentine’s Day? time driving around in an SUV with a nurse money before going to medical school. year. It may seem Lucky for you, practitioner to address patients’ medical “I spend a lot of time with my friends like the only option Houston boasts concerns in the comfort of their own homes. because I’m coming to the time where we’re for Rice students is several dessert Duffus is one of various Rice alumni who all going to be splitting up and not living to buy your special [If] you’re looking for a options to give decided to graduate early last fall after the in the same place anymore,” Duffus said. someone a fancy something sweet to pandemic turned their senior year plans “It’s really great to have [time to spend latte from Brochstein socially distant picnic your sweetheart. upside down. The Thresher checked in with with friends]. Especially because I always or take a romantic date ... there’s something The Chocolate three graduates to see how their transition get involved in so many activities, I can’t couple’s walk to for everyone this Bar in Rice Village out of Rice has gone. remember the last time that I really had Reckling Roost for a Valentine’s Day. offers unique no responsibilities like this. I have to go LAMP test, but we’re Valentine’s Day Medical care and managing Pub to work, but once I leave work, nothing’s here to broaden your chocolates and Last summer, Duffus found her plans coming home with me. I don’t have anything options. Whether boxes, great for derailed by the pandemic, leading her to else to do.” you’re looking for a socially distant picnic gifting. From mini chocolate sculptures of graduate a semester early to work before While Duffus said that she initially felt date, cupid-themed photoshoots or even cupid hearts and keys to specialty chocolate medical school. When Rice announced the bad for leaving extracurricular activities just sending yourself a well-deserved box of boxes, there’s something to satisfy just about reduction in price for online summer classes, that she had made year-long commitments chocolates, there’s something for everyone any chocolate lover. But the best part? The Duffus decided to enroll in some, racking up to, when she reached out to the executives this Valentine’s Day. Check out our guide Chocolate Bar offers delivery via UberEats the credits she needed to graduate. of her clubs she was met with support and down below for date ideas, local events, and DoorDash, making it easier than ever to “It’s the same class that’s usually $3,000 congratulations. Even after graduating, she florists and chocolatiers. send your valentine (or yourself) the most for, like, $750,” Duffus said. “Because I was says that she is still the general manager for delectable chocolates. able to take those classes, I kind of got all Willy’s Pub. We Heart Houston: Where to Shop Local Another dessert option is Tiny’s Milk and the credits I needed and only needed one “I am still the [general manager] of Pub, for Your Sweetheart Cookies, a West University establishment more semester.” which is funny, ‘cause there’s no Pub,” Duffus Located in the Galleria area, Fancy that delivers Valentine’s goodies. One deal is Originally, Duffus planned to be a full- said. “But they voted and said it was okay for Flowers Houston offers extravaganta sugar cookie decorating kit — a dessert and time student in the fall and then only take me to stay on for the semester because the floral arrangements on the daily, and its a fun activity all wrapped up in one box. her year-long research course in the spring. Valentine’s Day selections are no exception. SEE VALENTINE’S DAY PAGE 6 “I realized that I had all of the credits and SEE GRADUATING EARLY PAGE 5 2 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 THE RICE THRESHER NEWS
SA President Candidates Feb. 15, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. Jarrett Prchal Kendall Vining SA Internal Vice President Candidate Madison Bunting SA External Vice President Candidates Hunter Brown Lily Sethre-Brink Jared Butler SA Secretary Candidate Savannah Parrot Student SA Treasurer Candidate Association Elliot Riesman-Tremonte Presidential Debate Hosted by the Thresher International students scramble to fulfill visa requirements
BRIAN LIN ASST NEWS EDITOR
New international students rushed to find at least one in-person class that would begin at the start of the semester to satisfy visa requirements, after most of the classes that had an in-person section pushed back their in-person component to start on Feb. 15. This requirement only applies to students who arrived in the U.S. after March 2020, which includes freshmen students and transfer students who have recently entered the country. New students who are taking their courses fully online are not eligible to enter the US on an F-1 visa. “People who are here in the United States and were new[ly issued] an F or J visa after March 9, 2020 needed to have an in-person course at the start of the semester,” Adria Baker, executive director of the Office of International Students and Scholars. said. “There are still [in-person] courses [that begin at the start of the semester] being offered, it’s just a smaller list.” Jonathan Gan, an international student ILLUSTRATION BY CHLOE XU from Malaysia, said that when the in-person section of that course was pushed back to said he does not know how many classes on you want to open a face-to-face section.” the OISS in finding classes for international Feb. 15, Gan said the Registrar Office directed the list met at the start of the semester. Mehek Jain, an international student from students. him to a list from which he could choose an “The list was, and continues to be, a list Hong Kong, said it would have been more “I do appreciate everything Rice has done alternative course that was approved to begin of courses that were approved to meet prior convenient if the Provost organized an in- and I think that it has been very welcoming in-person on January 25. to Feb. 15, 2021, which means that they could person study hall class that would fulfill the to international students,” Jain said. “I just “I had an in-person class going and it ‘may’ meet before then; that does not mean requirements for the visa. think that when the government seems so was fine, but when Rice announced that that they actually did or will,” Schilke said. “My solution would have been to just do unreasonable, it’s kind of Rice’s duty they were going to push back the resumption “You would need to contact the individual like a three-credit in-person study hall,” Jain, to make it easier on their international of in-person class to Feb. 15, that class was instructors to determine if the course met or a freshman at Lovett College, said. “It would students.” ineligible for [fulfilling visa requirements],” plans to meet prior to Feb. 15, 2021. I can’t even have made life for all of us a lot easier. But All of the students that were searching Gan, a freshman at Jones College, said. estimate this number. You would need to poll instead, all of us had to spend numerous for an in-person class which began at According to Gan, the list on the Registrar’s the individual instructors of the courses.” hours emailing professors and trying to figure the start of the semester were able to website was confusing because it contained Barry Dunning, a professor of physics, said all this out.” find one and fulfill the visa requirement, classes that didn’t actually begin on Jan. 25. the Registrar’s Office asked him to open an in- According to Baker, the OISS decided according to Baker. “For Intro to Photography, I emailed person section of PHYS 102 that would start at not to push for a special in-person class that “Every international student that the professor and it turns out that the class the beginning of the semester. Dunning said would solely satisfy visa requirements for this needed an in-person class as of the wouldn’t even be starting in person until Feb. he now lectures to around six international semester. first [day] of the semester on January 25 15,” Gan said. students in person in conjunction with his “We did not want students to waste time was able to find one,” Baker said. “The Justin Schilke, the senior associate online lecture. and money. We were rushing to help them international students are brilliant and registrar, said the classes on that list were “I was happy to have people in class find something that wasn’t just [a course] to they’re very conscientious about trying approved to meet in person prior to Feb. 15, because frankly, I enjoyed lecturing to people fill a slot,” Baker said. “We wanted it to be a to make everything right for themselves. but students had to email each professor on in class,” Dunning said. “I think it was during positive experience and for the courses to be And Rice faculty truly care about the the list to determine if a class actually met the first week of classes this problem came up. something that would be meaningful.” international students.” in-person at the start of the semester. Schilke So I said it was not a problem and I’m happy if Jain said she appreciates the effort of This story has been condensed for print. NEWS WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 • 3 Rice extends the test-optional policy for the Class of 2026 undergraduate applicants
SUMIN YOON policy even after the pandemic ends, several Announced test-optional policy for THRESHER STAFF new students and current students favor keeping the policy. University the 2021-2022 application cycle Rice’s Office of Undergraduate Admission Current Student Association President extended the test-optional policy into the Anna Margaret Clyburn, who helped pass the 2021-2022 application cycle, according to their SA’s resolution to ask the admissions office to website. Vice President of Enrollment Yvonne go test-optional in April 2020, said she felt that Brown Romero da Silva said that Rice’s test-optional Rice should consider permanently going test- policy gives students the option to decide optional not only to diversify their applicant whether or not to submit their scores since pool but also to reduce disparities. the pandemic continues to restrict students’ “We know that standardized tests reflect California access to testing. racial and class disparities that exist in all “With the continued uncertainty and areas of American society,” Clyburn said. Institute of variable access to testing we felt it best to “While making these tests optional can’t erase extend our test-optional policy for another those injustices, we can reflect on how to Technology year,” Romero da Silva said. “We allowed restrict the amplification of those disparities students to submit a range of test scores in our college admissions process by allowing that they felt would showcase their college students to choose whether or not to report Cornell readiness and academic strengths.” them.” Roselyn Ovalle, a high school senior from Ovalle shared similar opinions as Clyburn Houston, Texas, said that Rice’s decision to and said that a test-optional policy would go test-optional was one of the major reasons encourage more low-income applicants to Columbia why she applied to Rice. Ovalle was admitted apply. to Rice’s Class of 2025 through the Early “I didn’t have the exact resources to get Decision cycle, which had a record number of a test prep course or to have a tutor,” Ovalle applicants. said. “If Rice goes test-optional again, it Duke “It was the fact that [Rice] went test- would increase and motivate more students, optional that gave me the motivation and especially those who don’t have the resources confidence,” Ovalle said. “I might actually get to increase their scores, to apply to schools in — it’s possible!” like Rice and give themselves the opportunity Emory Disha Baldawa, an international student to be at a school like Rice.” from Dubai who also applied Early Decision Sanat Mehta (McMurtry College ‘20) to Rice, also wrote a letter to the Harvard cited Rice’s test- editor last May about optional policy as standardized testing, a major motivator believing that Rice for applying, [The test-optional policy] should not extend the Johns Hopkins and believes that gives a welcoming sense to test-optional policy Rice’s test-optional students that you can be after the pandemic. policy is why a Mehta said that from any type of background record number of de-emphasizing Massachusetts applicants applied and you can apply. standardized testing to Rice this year. would place greater “I don’t think emphasis on non- Institute of students just all Roselyn Ovalle academic factors magically decided ADMITTED STUDENT TO CLASS OF 2025 that may be easier Technology to apply [to Rice] to manipulate for some reason,” and harder for the Northwestern Baldawa said. “I think it was definitely the admissions committee to objectively evaluate. test-optional policy because if I knew I had to Although Rice’s current test-optional submit my scores, I wouldn’t have [applied] policy will only be in place for freshmen ED to Rice because I knew I had no chance.” and transfer students matriculating in 2022, Princeton A number of Rice’s peer institutions Romero da Silva said that extending the such as Harvard University, Cornell test-optional policy will allow the Office of University, Yale University and University of Admission to better understand its impacts. Pennsylvania went test-optional for the 2020- “It is unclear whether [the test-optional Stanford 2021 application cycle. Harvard, Yale and policy] will motivate more low-income University of Pennsylvania reported record students to apply to institutions like Rice,” high numbers of applicants. Romero da Silva said. “More information is UCLA Romero da Silva said that although she needed to understand the impact of a test- believes that the test-optional policy may optional policy and by extending the policy a explain the record-high applicants, she second year, it will allow us time to do deeper believes that other factors may also have analysis of student performance. My hope University of helped. Rice received over 29,000 applications is that this will inform our testing policy for this year. future prospective students.” Notre Dame “Rice saw the highest ever increases in Ovalle believes maintaining the test- applications across all of our applicant pools optional policy will not only pave a way for a — QuestBridge, Early Decision and Regular more fair admissions process, but also allow University of Decision,” Romero da Silva wrote in an email applicants of all types to feel welcomed. to the Thresher. “We believe that a portion of “It gives a welcoming sense to students that this increase can be attributed to Rice’s test- you can be from any type of background and Pennsylvania optional policy. However, we also believe you can apply and just because you don’t have that the newly revamped website and virtual the resources to increase your score doesn’t programming contributed to the increased mean that [admissions will] immediately shut Vanderbilt interest in Rice.” the door on you,” Ovalle said. “The whole Although it is unclear whether or not Rice test-optional policy kind of proved to me that Note: Some of the schools listed above may not have announced an extension yet. will continue to maintain their test-optional you are more than just a number.” INFOGRAPHIC BY ANNA CHUNG
FROM PAGE 1 “It was definitely great news when I found protocols and best practices recommended from the state regarding vaccinations yet, out that we could move in a week earlier. by the Centers for Disease Control and Kirby said he remains hopeful that sometime TESTING I could not wait to meet my friends and be Prevention, according to Kirby. over the following month, Rice will gain back on campus after this year’s particularly Marc Shen, a sophomore from Hanszen access to their requested allotment. “We are just trying to space out the long winter break,” Santhirasegaran said. College, said that it was important to abide “We know that it is hard for our students arrivals on campus, to make it a smoother Kirby said he maintains a positive outlook by COVID restrictions and protocols on to maintain unconventional practices such process in an effort to accommodate all on the upcoming semester regarding the campus. as social distancing and mask-wearing students’ plans given the improved safety COVID-19 situation both on and off campus. “While it is not the ideal college over a long period of time, but it is more on campus with recent case decreases,” He said that while there have been over 280 experience any of us want, following the important than ever that we ask them to Kirby said. positive tests since the start of testing in regulations that Rice has requested us do so over the following months before Charan Santhirasegaran, a sophomore at August, only 10 originated from on-campus to follow is the best way to ensure our vaccinations are distributed,” Kirby said. “It McMurtry College, said that he was excited transmission. This is largely due to the wellbeing during this unprecedented time,” is only through collective effort that we can that Rice allowed students to move in a student body’s dedicated adherence to the Shen said. improve our fight against this pandemic, week earlier than anticipated. Rice Culture of Care Agreement, as well as Although there have been no updates and accelerate the return to normalcy.” 4 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 THE RICE THRESHER OPINION EDITORIAL Sprinkle days are replacing spring break — so take an actual break In a normal spring semester, we get — to actually take a break. weren’t great. And so this semester, as by Johns-Krull, who wrote: “The ARC spring break. This year, we get five “sprinkle” Students: you shouldn’t feel any guilt for we again face the elevated stresses of an encourages all instructors to consider the days instead — random weekdays dispersed doing absolutely nothing on your day off. accelerated academic schedule, sprinkle intent of these days as breaks as they design throughout the semester on which no class Spring break is much needed in a normal days are a deserved chance to slow down, their schedule of assignments for their occurs and no assignments can be due. semester, but keep in mind that a semester recharge and take care of ourselves. courses – and as such, we also encourage The idea is to give Rice students their well- spent on Zoom during a pandemic brings If you would normally spend your instructors to refrain from assigning any deserved days off without encouraging with it a host of new mental and physical spring break thinking as little about school work due the day immediately following a unnecessary travel. As Christopher Johns- as possible, that’s what you should do ‘sprinkle day.’” If instructors do not take the Krull of the Academic Restart Committee on your sprinkle days — guilt-free. And if ARC’s recommendation seriously, students wrote to course instructors, “it is intended you’d normally spend your time off doing will find themselves using their sprinkle that, to the extent possible, these be real something like an alternative spring break, days preparing for the next day instead of breaks for students and instructors.” You shouldn’t feel any you might consider looking into ways taking a much-needed break. That might be easier said than done. Our to safely replicate typical learning and Finally, to the entire Rice community: first sprinkle day is next Wednesday, Feb. guilt for doing absolutely volunteer experiences. The bottom line is enjoy your day off, but remember to do 17. Because it falls right in the middle of the nothing on your day off. that almost none of us spend our spring so safely. While the situation has been fourth week of classes, Rice students might breaks doing school work every day, and improving at Rice and in Houston, it is up feel like they should use the day off to catch challenges, and that it’s okay to not be “used that’s not how we should spend our sprinkle to all of us to do our part and help keep that up or get ahead on their assignments — a to it” yet, or ever. Last semester, which had days, either. trend going. Although we encourage you to feeling that will inevitably be encouraged no fall break, was an experiment of sorts Professors likewise need to honor the take full advantage of your sprinkle days, it by professors who decide to have work due in what would happen to students if they intent of sprinkle days. The goal of sprinkle should go without saying that we must all the next day. But having students spend pushed themselves to their limits without days as a break can only be fully realized if continue to uphold Rice’s Culture of Care their sprinkle days doing school work would taking proper time to catch their breaths. For professors do not assign work to be due the agreement. Breaking it would defeat the defeat the purported purpose of the holiday many of us, the results of that experiment following day, a recommendation echoed point of sprinkle days, too.
OPINION An open letter to O-Week coordinators: recruit more transfer advisors Content Warning: Brief references to college. Transfer advisors are key not only for first two years at a new institution average responsibility of coordinators to break the sexual assault and suicide the invaluable intangibles of providing role five percent lower GPAs and are 10 percent vicious cycle that has continued for years. I can’t remember my Orientation Week. models and advice to transfer students but less likely to graduate compared to equally That said, don’t rest on your laurels because It’s not a blur of happiness or a general lack also for the concrete knowledge of how the accomplished freshman matriculators. On you managed to get a single transfer advisor on of memory on my part. It’s a malaise of stress system of transferring works. Most systems the social side, a study from the University your team. Transfer students are perhaps the and not knowing my place. Coming in as a at Rice are designed for freshman new of Michigan found that transfers score least monolithic group on campus, differing transfer, I felt simultaneously alienated from students largely at the expense of transfers: significantly lower on measures of social in previous institutions, races, sexualities my O-Week siblings and my O-Week parents, college constitutions fit housing to a standard connectedness when compared to freshman and attitudes on transferring. A few weeks too old to feel the freshman excitement but progression new students. The ago, I sat on a panel for transfer students and too inexperienced to engage with established throughout Rice, and combination of directly contradicted the answers of another Rice students. I had no model of what I was despite all the time academic struggle transfer student I greatly respect. The transfer supposed to be or even could be — transfer for various “things Having transfer student and social alienation students in your O-Weeks will be similarly students received maybe an hour of transfer- to know your first creates the perfect diverse and while one is better than none, specific programming, and I only had one year in college” representation is an storm for mental multiple transfer advisors could better serve conversation with a transfer co-advisor who I presentations, easy fix, a way to show health issues, with these students. never saw again. there is no time for incoming transfers what transfer students On top of that, transfer students are still We need more transfer advisors. That transfers to sort out their role can be at Rice twice as likely to awesome people and great advisors. While my won’t solve all the issues that transfer credit issues with the display depressive status as a transfer influences how I advise, I students face, but it’s a start. Having transfer registrar. At the very least, transfer advisors traits when compared to native students. hope I was able to be a good advisor absent student representation is an easy fix, a way to can be a source of information to other Unfortunately, this can manifest itself in this demographic point. Transfer students show incoming transfers what their role can advisors who are unsure of how to interact suicidal ideation and self-harm — a study are some of the coolest, sweetest and most be at Rice, a form of support to transfers who with their transfer new students — advisors indicated that transfers are more likely to self- interesting people I’ve met with a truly unique can come in with confidence or fear or both. with transfer students in their groups would harm and attempt to commit suicide. viewpoint on college that I firmly believe they In my experience, I have found transfer often approach me with questions. These statistics are far from well known. can offer to new students, transfer and non- representation in O-Week advising to be Transfers could use the help. I don’t mean Transfer students are not identified as the risk transfer alike. O-Week should be about both severely lacking. I only met one transfer to victimize transfers, who I know to be some group they are — despite the fact that they are making people from different backgrounds advisor total my year of matriculation of the toughest, smartest, most determined more likely to be survivors of sexual assault feel accepted and exposing people to new and some of my transfer friends from my people I’ve met at Rice, but the data shows and face income insecurity. Advisor training perspectives from others. matriculation year recounted meeting none. that the deck stacks itself against transfers largely continues to propagate that the only Adding more transfer students to advisor When I advised last O-Week, many transfer from the start. A well-documented trend difference in advising transfer students is that teams is not a cure all, but it’s a start. If we students told me that they didn’t have any within academic research, “transfer shock” you shouldn’t “baby” them because they’re empower and serve transfer new students transfer advisors at their college. What I was refers to the period of high stress leading to older. This approach is not only controversial from the second they arrive at Rice by having asked to do as an O-Week advisor and transfer lower performance due to sharp changes in within the transfer community but also more transfer representation among their reflected this — I found myself being put in academic and social environments. But even horrifically reductive to the unique stresses advisors, I have no doubt that Rice will charge of transfers at other colleges, and when this initial shock wears off, transfers transfers face. become a better community for all. advisors at other colleges asked me for advice still face disproportionate academic and “But we don’t get enough transfer advisor on how to best support their transfer students. social challenges. applicants!” cries the chorus of overworked Unfortunately, this seems to be a common A 2011 study from the Maryland Higher (and underpaid) coordinators. The lack of Jacob Tate problem. My discussions with transfer Education Commission found that transfers applicants arises from the lack of transfer MCMURTRY COLLEGE students from many different classes revealed from community colleges averaged just a 2.73 advisors in the first place — transfer students JUNIOR similar perceptions of a lack of representation GPA in their first year at a new institution are systematically disenfranchised from the and interaction during O-Week. largely due to difficulties in adjustment. Even moment they step onto this campus because In order to sufficiently support their when transfers make it past their first year, a of a lack of support and representation. It is transfer students, colleges need at least one study from Western Washington University not our responsibility as transfers to engage Have an opinion? Submit your transfer advisor, preferably from their own found that transfers who make it past the with colleges we feel ostracized from, it is the draft to [email protected]. STAFF
* Editorial Board member ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PHOTO Katelyn Landry* Editor Channing Wang Editor The Rice Thresher, the official Editorial and business offices are Ivanka Perez* Editor-in-Chief Sanvitti Sahdev Asst. Editor student newspaper of Rice University located on the second floor of the Rishab Ramapriyan* Editor-in-Chief DESIGN since 1916, is published each Ley Student Center: Amy Qin* Managing Editor SPORTS Dalia Gulca* Art Director Wednesday during the school year, 6100 Main St., MS-524 Ben Baker-Katz* Editor Katherine Hui Sports Designer except during examination periods Houston, TX 77005-1892 NEWS Daniel Schrager Editor Anna Chung News Designer and holidays, by the students of Rice Savannah Kuchar* Editor Katherine Chui Features Designer University. Phone: (713) 348 - 4801 Rynd Morgan* Editor BACKPAGE Robert Heeter Opinion Designer Email: [email protected] Talha Arif Asst. Editor Simona Matovic* Editor & Designer Ivana Hsyung A&E Designer Letters to the Editor must be Website: www.ricethresher.org Brian Lin Asst. Editor Yifei Zhang Illustrator received by 5 p.m. the Friday prior COPY Chloe Xu Illustrator to publication and must be signed, The Thresher is a OPINION Bhavya Gopinath Editor Ndidi Nwosu Illustrator including college and year if the member of the Nayeli Shad* Editor Morgan McMains Editor writer is a Rice student. The Thresher ACP, TIPA, CMA, BUSINESS OPERATIONS reserves the rights to edit letters for and CMBAM. FEATURES ONLINE Karoline Sun Business Manager content and length and to place letters Ella Feldman* Editor Mateo D’Agaro Web Editor Lindsay Josephs Advertising Manager on its website. © Copyright 2021 Kavya Sahni Asst. Editor Audrey Yao Video Editor Lily Wieland Distribution Manager THE RICE THRESHER WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 • 5 Crossword Senior Spotlight One crossword wasn’t enough? Meet Gabriella Feuillet, an Head to our website to play our architecture student and this second crossword of the week. week’s senior spotlight. FEATURES See more at ricethresher.org See more at ricethresher.org JAYAKER KOLLI AND NIKHAZ OMAR Dragon Tales THRESHER STAFF 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ACROSS DOWN 1 Yoke bearers Sweet potato 9 10 1 5 Gyro wrapper 2 Zoroastrian concept of 9 Ground support for a TIE holy fire 11 12 fighter 3 Leafy green 10 A procrastinator’s favorite 4 What Yogi Bear might do time? at a picnic? 13 11 Sleeping Beauty’s dragon 5 Rodent also known as a queen gibnut 13 Diana Prince and Selina 6 Parts of lists 14 15 Kyle for Wonder Woman and 7 2020 film starring John Catwoman, respectively David Washington 14 Former Houston Rocket Creative 16 17 18 19 20 8 Mbah a Moute 10 Copperhead? 15 Pigpen 12 Seasonal vaccine 21 22 23 24 16 ___ CAH TOA 16 Subject of philately 19 Soak (up) 17 Seeps 21 Dragon trained by Hiccup 18 Georgetown students 25 26 25 The Dragon Prince 20 _____ to the metal 27 Intended 22 Splinter’s students, 28 In addition abbr. 27 28 29 Attention-getter 23 Nuke enclosure 30 | || || | __ 24 Attitude 26 ... _ _ _ ... 29 30
FROM PAGE 1 GRADUATING EARLY going to Singapore,” Pierre-Louis said. “Then I realized we couldn’t be changed rules are that the [general manager] together at all. Like, we couldn’t be has to be 21, and we didn’t have anyone in the same room playing Uno or go who was 21 yet that was interested in doing to the [Multicultural Center] to hang it, so I was like, ‘I’ll just stay on for an extra out. You see the movies, [senior year] semester.’” is this big, hyped-up thing, and it just It is this lingering connection to campus not happening was disappointing.” that Duffus said makes her experience Still, Pierre-Louis said she had different from the typical graduate. unexpectedly good moments come “I definitely still feel really strong out of her senior year. connections to Rice and things that happen “I took a shot in the dark ‘cause I at Rice,” Duffus said. “I still feel like I’m kind really wanted to have a graduation of involved, but it’s nice to get this transition of some sort, so I asked President period where I am an alumni but still able to Leebron if he would do a photoshoot see McMurtry emails.” with me,” Pierre-Louis said. “He actually did it. I have pictures. I do From Singapore to Chicago have pictures [where] we are socially Camille Pierre-Louis (Hanszen College ‘20) distanced and masked. It was like a headed straight into the workforce after her rap album cover almost — it looks graduation last fall. After 115 job applications, really cool.” Pierre-Louis said that she was able to find Pierre-Louis is optimistic looking a job she wanted: an entry coordinator at forward. She is currently preparing to PHOTO COURTESY DANIEL DAVIS AND L DIOP McMaster-Carr Supply Company. earn her MBA paid for by her employer But before COVID-19 affected study abroad and said she thinks that Chicago, her Camille Pierre-Louis (Hanszen College ‘20), said she “took a shot in the dark” by asking President David programs, Pierre-Louis planned to spend her new home, will be a new place to Leebron to take graduation photos with her last fall. Him agreeing to a photoshoot was one of many last semester in Singapore. Because of this, make her own community again. surprises that came out of the decision Pierre-Louis made to graduate a semester early. she had already done the work to have her “I’m 21. I need to be around other graduation requirements done by the end of young people,” Pierre-Louis said. Liu said. “I was just like, ‘I might as well “I do think it’s a little bit difficult [to stay in her senior fall semester. graduate early, because sticking around touch] because your life is so much different “I decided to graduate early and take Fizzled endings and new beginnings won’t really benefit me other than the social from people who are still attending Rice,” advantage of that About 790 miles aspect of being able to stay connected with Liu said. “They still have class, and you don’t extra semester,” away from where Pierre- my friends longer.’” necessarily know how busy their schedules Pierre-Louis said. “If Louis has settled into For the senior year that she did have, are or what their life looks like anymore. I didn’t want to go to Chicago, Tina Liu (Sid Liu said that she felt like she missed out on You’re separated from that. Especially for me, school, I could take a It’s kind of weird knowing Richardson College milestone moments like her last in-person I’m in a different time zone as well.” gap or start working my last class was just me ‘20) has moved to New exam, Sylly Week and Beer Bike. Liu said that student groups were able to immediately turning off Zoom. It’s just not York City, where she is “I didn’t have that experience of being connect in surprising ways last fall. depending on how working on a certificate able to know that I’m going to see people for “Even for the Thresher, we were able to the job market that feeling of walking out of in product design and the last time. The expectation that I had was continue working and doing print issues,” fluctuated.” a classroom for the last time. management from [my senior year] was going to be a lot more Liu, who was the Thresher’s art director from With the shift the Pratt Institute and eventful and sentimental,” Liu said. “What 2019 to 2020, said. “Being able to see how to a virtual college Tina Liu getting ready to start actually happened was just my college career the community adapts with the changing experience, Pierre- Sid Richardson College ‘20 working at Hulu in fizzled out.” circumstances was really surprising.” Louis said that she March as an associate Devoid of the typical senior experience, Moving forward, Liu’s foreseeable future did not feel like she project designer. Liu said she felt like college came to an will be remote as well. She said that it leaves was missing out on much by deciding to “It was stressful, because the whole hiring anticlimactic end. her with the same sense of not knowing graduate early. process slowed down because of COVID. It “It was like, ‘Okay, you’re done. We’ll what to expect that she had going into last “We can’t be together anyway,” Pierre- took them until February to get back to me mail you your diploma,’” Liu said. “It’s kind fall semester. Louis said. “If I was missing 100 Days or the with an actual offer, so I was kind of freaking of weird knowing my last class was just me “You don’t really know what it’s going to big senior days, then I’d be really sad about it, out like, ‘Am I going to be unemployed?’ It’s turning off Zoom. It’s just not that feeling of look like,” Liu said. “You don’t really know if but since we can’t do it anyway, I feel like this nerve-wracking.” walking out of a classroom for the last time or you’re ever going to meet your coworkers in was the best move for me.” Looking at the potential of a senior walking out of an exam room. You just shut person or if you’re going to get that in-person That isn’t to say that the loss of that in- spring, Liu realized that because of the your laptop, and you’re like, ‘okay, that’s my experience. Even though it is a little anxiety- person experience did not affect her. Pierre- pandemic she was no longer getting the full last thing of college, I guess.’” inducing, I think it’s still exciting, because, Louis said that it felt like “shots to the heart” college experience. Since she’s moved to New York City, Liu regardless of how it happens, it’s going to be a as she experienced the feeling of losing “In terms of academics, I wasn’t learning said that she’s been able to stay in touch with new experience.” senior year. anything that was applicable to my career her friends by regularly FaceTiming them and This article has been condensed for print. “I definitely was disappointed in not choice in the future, which was design,” checking in. Read more online at ricethresher.org. 6 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 THE RICE THRESHER “Portal of Healing” An immersive art installation by Rachel Gonzales makes space to reflect on grief and resilience.Read ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT online at ricethresher.org. The ones on display at the Moody Center uniquely influenced by the Rothko Chapel. Rothko retrospective to open at Moody are miniature versions of four larger panels “The Questioning Column” by Sheila of the same name, which are currently on Hicks, a 26-foot tall, rainbowy waterfall of view at the Menil Collection and which the textile, currently stands outside the Moody JAMES KARROUM Moody Center was unable to acquire. In Center’s main entrance. SENIOR WRITER 1975, Novros created “Room 1” and “Room “[‘The Questioning Column’ is of] 3,” each a three-walled room of enormous monumental scale but also chromatic The Moody Center panels with intense colors. When standing complexity, the colors that are visible — for The Arts’ spring 2021 with each room on the viewer’s sides, a underneath you can see other colors as exhibition, “Artists and subdued, single-walled “Room 2” serves as well,” Josenhans said. “In a work like this, the Rothko Chapel: 50 a visual buffer between them. you can see her understanding of fiber. It Years of Inspiration,” Josenhans said the process of reuniting was specifically developed for her needs, will open to the public and restaging these original works posed to be able to be manipulated at such a Tuesday, Feb. 16. A challenges for her. Because the larger large scale, be shown outdoors. Here she celebration of the legacy versions of “The wanted it to be on a and influence of the Seasons” could not pedestal.” Rothko Chapel, the two- be borrowed for the When Sam part show includes a restaging, Marden Gilliam came to restaging of “Marden, volunteered to create You can see it as a Houston’s Fifth Ward Novros, Rothko: Painting additional works for the De Luxe Show in the Age of Actuality,” a David Novros, Untitled, 1973-75 last year for this masterwork of modern in 1971 — one of the 1975 campus art exhibit Courtesy Moody Center for the Arts exhibition — “The art, you can read it first major racially held in response to the Seasons – Study” as a symbol of social integrated art shows chapel, as well as contemporary abstract “Seeing the Rothko Chapel is one of the and “River Study 2” in the United States works that reflect the chapel’s influence on first things you want to do when you come each demonstrate a justice... everyone is free — he also visited artists today. to Houston,” Moody Center Associate continued, long-term to experience it in ways the Rothko Chapel, The Rothko Chapel is a non- Curator Frauke Josenhans said. “You can influence of Rothko Josenhans said. denominational space founded by see it as a masterwork of modern art, you on him. Frauke Josenhans The pieces he made Houston philanthropists John and can read it as a symbol of social justice or “[‘The Seasons’ MOODY CENTER ASSOCIATE CURATOR for “Artists and the Dominique de Menil in 1971. The human rights. There’s a spiritual aspect as are] encaustic on Rothko Chapel” are octagonal building shows 14 paintings well; everyone is free to experience it in canvas, so while the Menil was extremely exemplary for the same simplicity that by famous postwar abstract artist Mark ways that speak to them.” supportive, they are works that couldn’t defined Rothko’s work. Rothko, known for his rectangular works Brice Marden and David Novros are two leave the Menil Collection,” Josenhans said. “[Gilliam has] had a lifelong of pure color that pioneered the color New York artists known in the 1960s and ‘70s “Marden lent additional works, [having engagement with color like Rothko,” field painting style, a tendency within for their abstract minimalism. After visiting used] color as a conduit for emotion. It Josenhans said. “He makes works that abstract expressionism. His paintings at the Rothko Chapel in 1972, Dominique de almost looks like it’s unfinished, you can are almost just color. He spoke of the idea the Rothko Chapel are nearly black but Menil invited them to respond artistically — see an absence that is a presence in a of wholeness, where everything that you show some subdued colors within them, “Marden, Novros, Rothko: Painting in the way. This is something he picked up from use forms one work. I wanted to create and the spiritual atmosphere created Age of Actuality” was shown at Rice’s once- the Rothko Chapel; you can see these a dialogue between [his] paintings and by the architecture and his paintings famous “Art Barn,” (officially called the brushstrokes, it is apparent.” sculptures to emphasize Gilliam’s idea of have influenced artists, musicians and Martel Center) which was demolished in The second part of the exhibition wholeness.” the general public in the 50 years it has 2014. Marden’s “The Seasons” is composed showcases pieces made since 2010 by This article has been condensed for print. existed. of four small vertical, solid-colored panels. four different artists who have each been Read the full story online at ricethresher.org.
FROM PAGE 1 drive-in movie venue with a great ambiance. Valentine’s Day For Valentine’s Day, the drive-in is showing Comfy, Classy, Crafty: COVID-Safe Date Ideas “The Notebook” and “Love and Basketball.” You can’t go wrong with some Netflix If you want a special Valentine’s Day meal & chillin’, so here are some movies we’d while crying to “The Notebook,” the Drive-In recommend watching this Valentine’s Off Navigation offers two on-site food trucks: Day. These movies show love in all Kurbside Eatz, serving comfort Asian-fusion dimensions and include stories that food, and Sizzles HTX, a burger truck that depict BIPOC and LGBTQ+ characters, puts their twist on the American classic. as representation is vital to an enjoyable They say that a picture is worth a movie-watching experience. thousand words, and there’s nothing just “Someone Great” quite as picture-worthy as the stunning “A Walk to Remember” Houston Botanic Garden. Take your sweetheart “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” on a heartfelt, unforgettable date at the “Something Borrowed” garden and get Instagram-worthy photos “The Vow” by Joanna Brandt Photography at their “The Notebook” Valentine’s Day-themed photo sessions. “The Longest Ride” For more information, be sure to visit their “Brokeback Mountain” website and book your tickets before they’re “13 Going on 30” sold out. “27 Dresses” If you’re looking for a budget-friendly “10 Things I Hate About You” way to enjoy the outdoors, consider a picnic. “When Harry Met Sally” ILLUSTRATION BY NDIDI NWOSU Since the start of lockdown, picnics have “Sleepless in Seattle” quickly risen to the top of the list of COVID- “Love and Basketball” safe activities to enjoy by yourself or with a “Love, Actually” “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” If you want to leave your home to watch a socially distanced group of family or friends. “Once” “Carol” movie but still be COVID-conscious, the Drive- This article has been condensed for print. “Love, Simon” “If Beale Street Could Talk” In Off Navigation by Rooftop Cinema is a new Read the full story at ricethresher.org.
WEEKLY SCENES AND SCREENS t IN CONVERSATION: POMPEII: ASTR* SUBMISSIONS “WILD LIFE” THE EXHIBITON LOVE YOU TO DEATH Submit your creative work to ASTR*, Talk to Jessi Reaves, one of the artists The Houston Museum of Natural Science Join Insomnia Gallery on their YouTube Rice’s art and design magazine, before behind the Contemporary Arts Museum’s will unveil its new exhibit on the historic channel at 7 p.m. CST on Friday, Feb. 12 the Friday, Feb. 12 deadline. Themes for new exhibition “Wild Life,” ahead of Roman city of Pompeii this Saturday, Feb. for an online art show all about love, their third issue can be found on their its opening on Thursday, Feb. 11. The 13. Visitors will have the opportunity to loss, lust and everything in between. Instagram or Facebook, and submissions exhibition will be on view for the public see over 150 artifacts from the city that The show is free, but all pieces will should be sent to [email protected]. starting Thursday, Feb. 18, and brings were preserved in volcanic ash after the be on sale on the gallery’s website together sculptures by Reaves and cataclysmic eruption of Mount Vesuvius starting at 8 p.m. paintings by Elizabeth Murray. Admission in 79 A.D. See this snapshot of Roman life is free. for $16 when you bring your Rice ID. THE RICE THRESHER WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 • 7 SPORTS Battle of the Birds: Owls sweep Golden Eagles
PAVITHR GOLI SENIOR WRITER
The Rice men’s basketball team won both their weekend games against the University of Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles. The Owls now have a 12-8 overall record with a 6-6 record against Conference USA teams, ranking No. 4 in the conference’s West Division. Redshirt-sophomore forward Riley Abercrombie said the weekend sweep was very important for the team, which was coming off five straight losses. “We lost a few games in a row and this was a really big week for us,” Abercrombie said. We knew that we needed to get some big wins, get back on track and build our confidence as we get to the top of our game.” Owls starting forward Max Fiedler, who made several key plays during the final stretch of Saturday’s win, said he is optimistic for the rest of the season as the team anticipates the return of several key players. “[Both wins] were really big and, PHOTO COURTESY RICE ATHLETICS hopefully, next week we will have [junior Sophomore guard Quincy Olivari (left) with freshman forward Mylyjael Poteat (right) at Tudor Fieldhouse. Both players played key roles as the Owls guard] Chris [Mullins] back and [graduate swept a pair of games against the University of Southern Mississippi over the weekend. transfer guard] Tre [Clark] back,” Fiedler said. “We will have the whole squad back One of the attributes that Pera prides older players have missed time due to either showcasing what they can really do.” for the first time in a long time, it feels like.” his team on is their toughness. Pera has injuries or getting COVID-19, a number Sheffield has gotten plenty of playing Head coach Scott Pera was very proud of commended the team’s resolve through the of freshmen have had the chance to gain time and starting opportunities with several his squad, not only because of their strong season and said he believes that it is a key valuable playing time. Starting guard and key players out with COVID-19 and injuries. weekend performance, but also his team’s towards the team’s success not only for this second-leading scorer on the team Travis Pera was not short on compliments in his overall performance throughout such a season but for the future of the program. Evee said that freshmen Cameron Sheffield praise for Sheffield. precarious and uncertain season. “Our guys were tough. I thought that’s and Mylyjael Poteat have both been “Cam [Sheffield] is going to be great for “We have such a big sense of pride in what they needed to be tough-minded resilient and played invaluable roles for the us,” Pera said. “He does a really good job our guys and this program,” Pera said. “We down the stretch and I couldn’t be prouder team down the stretch. of understanding his role and what his job have seen our share of adversity and we of what they have done so far,” Pera said. “It’s really cool to see Cam and Mylyjael is. He [also] adds value in the locker room, don’t look at it and say that it’s unfair. It is “They are such a terrific group of kids and stepping up,” Evee said. “There has character, everything that we want and he life in a pandemic and we don’t try to make very skilled basketball players. We have this always been the next man up mentality keeps improving. He does whatever you ask excuses. We just try to get better and better train on its tracks for years going forward for this team due to the pandemic and him to do and he has a very bright future.” and we have a special group of young men. and we are excited.” that anytime, someone could be out. They The Owls will take on Western Kentucky I am really proud to coach them and proud A big part of the program’s future is the are playing really good and it is good to University, the current leader of the C-USA of how they represent the school.” team’s freshmen. Since many of the team’s see the freshmen getting comfortable and East Division, on Friday and Saturday.
Soccer tops McNeese in season opener BEN BAKER-KATZ getting sucked into tackles, and not SPORTS EDITOR being first to the ball,” Killgore said. “Just simple things that we need to be better Rice soccer concluded their first at.” game of the season on Sunday, beating In an attempt to shake things up, Lee McNeese State University 2-1 on Holloway inserted senior forward Haley Kostyshyn Field. The Cowgirls got off to a strong into the lineup to start the second half. start, finding the back of the net in the Kostyshyn, who was out the first half due first minute of the match. But following to a minor injury, provided an instant the intermission, the Owls were able spark. Off of a pass from freshman to score two unanswered goals that midfielder Catarina Albuquerque, propelled them to victory. Head coach Kostyshyn’s equalizing header found the Brian Lee said his team recovered well back of the net in the 55th minute. from their initial shaky footing. “I was definitely wanting to get in the “Obviously we need to work on being game, seeing how the first half went,” ready to go when the game starts,” Lee Kostyshyn said. “The ball was fumbling PHOTO COURTESY RICE ATHLETICS said. “But we recovered well, stayed around, [Albuquerque] got her foot on it, Junior midfielder Madison Kent challenges a McNeese State University player for the ball during calm, and took care of business over the and I just saw it in the air and headed it in.” their season opener on Sunday. While McNeese State scored first, the Owls came back to win 2-1. 90 minutes.” Four minutes later, freshman midfielder Mikala Furuto collected the as the goalkeeper came up from her box to open their season last Thursday, on ball on the outside, and fired a 30-yard to take free kicks for the Owls throughout the road against McNeese. However, rocket into the back of the net. It was her the afternoon. It’s exceedingly rare for a that game was called in the first eight first collegiate shot, in her first collegiate goalkeeper to have any shots on goal, let alone minutes due to poor field conditions. It might not have been game, and Furuto became just the tenth four, but as Lee explained, this is something Then, on Friday, it was announced that the prettiest at times, but Owl in program history to score a goal in she has been working on for a while. the Owls’ Sunday opponent, Houston we found a way to win, her first career game. “Bella Killgore was outstanding,” Lee Baptist University, had suffered multiple and that’s really all we’re “She smacked it,” Lee said of Futuro’s said. “She’s worked really hard practicing injuries in their season opener and were goal. “She isn’t scared; she’s tough and those free kicks, and they almost paid forced to postpone their match with Rice. trying to do. aggressive, and has a great attitude and dividends today. Fortunately, McNeese was available, and Haley Kostyshyn personality on the field.” Killgore, who was surprised to learn the Thursday match was rescheduled. The Owls were able to hang on to their that she led the Owls in shots, said this “One of our team mottos for this spring is, Senior Forward one-goal lead for the remainder of the isn’t something she’s done at any level ‘don’t plan, prepare,’” Lee said. “I think these match. According to Kostyshyn, despite of soccer previously, but expects to keep things will keep happening this spring, and From the perspective of junior their early blunder, the team will take doing it as the season progresses. hopefully we’ll keep being ready.” goalkeeper Bella Killgore, the Cowgirls’ every win they can get. “It’s very exciting,” Killgore said. The Owls will be back in action on early goal was due to the Owls’ lack “It might not have been the prettiest at “[It’s] a good time, and you should see it Holloway Field, assuming no more of mental readiness, as well as simple times, but we found a way to win, and that’s moving forward.” schedule changes, against the University tactical errors. really all we’re trying to do,” Kostyshyn said. This match capped a strange week for of Texas at San Antonio on Thursday, “[Their goal] was a function of [us] In an interesting twist, the leader in shots Rice, as their schedule changed multiple Feb. 11, and they’ll face Texas Southern underestimating the other team, not for the Owls was none other than Killgore, times. The Owls were originally scheduled University on Feb. 14. 8 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 BACKPAGE
The Official Backpage Gu ide t o Valentine’s Day Gifts
Valentine’s Day is coming up this Sunday. We at the Backpage understand if you still haven’t gotten a gift yet. Maybe February has felt like a quarantine fever dream, or you’re really busy or maybe you’re so touch-starved you just don’t know where to start. All of these are true for us at the Backpage (except the second, but don’t tell that to our classmates who send us When2Meet forms). Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of super thoughtful gifts to show your special someone that you care.
A Poem You Wrote A Home-Cooked Yourself Meal
So, you saw Amanda Gorman perform and decided you Restaurants are simply viral infections waiting to happen, so suddenly like poetry again. She makes it look so easy. You eating out somewhere fancy is off the table (although eating can do it too, right? But maybe steer clear of whatever out in other ways may not be, but even those ways can be viral infections waiting to happen). Never mind all of that, cook your angsty ballads you wrote in middle school. We can assure own romantic candlelit dinner! If you only know how to cook you that your oddly-spaced hormone-induced rhymes one dish, try adding some new ingredients to spice things about all the injustices you faced as an eighth-grader up. Feel free to apply this to regular old water chicken in the were not as deep as you once thought. Instead, take servery, too. Any food automatically becomes romantic a note from Willy Shakes and write a sonnet! and fancy with the addition of chocolate. Ramen? We’ll get you started with a little template: Add some chocolate to those noods and maybe you’ll receive noods in return — meaning “Roses are (insert adjective) / Violets your date will cook for you next time, are (insert romantic adjective) / of course. At the very least, your PLEASE HAVE SEX WITH ME!” date will be so grossed out by That’ll make ‘em swoon. the concoction that you’ll seem delectable by comparison.
Anything Heart- Something They Will Shaped Actually Like
You could just take the easy route and buy a heart-shaped pizza or something like that, but that’s just paying more Why are you even looking at the last page of the money for less pizza. Why not take a few moments to go the Thresher for inspiration anyway? You should know extra mile? Make your partner your OWN heart-shaped gift! what your partner loves. If you don’t, then maybe Surprise them by cutting their paper or lab report into you deserve to get dumped. But, if that happens, little hearts! Maybe snip their favorite mask, too! Draw the Backpage has your back, too. The paper we hearts on them while they sleep! As long as hearts print on is surprisingly absorbent, so it’s are involved, the possibilities are endless! Keep perfect for crying into. in mind though, actual biological hearts are not romantic at all — they’re not even the right shape — so the Backpage urges you not to dissect any lab rats as a gesture of affection.
The Backpage is satire, written this week by Ndidi Nwosu and Edward Wong, edited by Simona Matovalentine and designed by Simp Matovic. For a love poem, email [email protected]. CLASSIFIEDS WANTED
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