•«

OP-ED P. 3 A&E P. 9 SPORTS P. 11 I pledge allegiance One step up, two steps back Lucky number seven The 300 or so students transferring to McMurtry and As the calendar turns, here's a look back at the holiday flicks The women's track and field team has six straight titles Duncan all have their reasons, so why the scarlet letters? and a preview of the best video games to come in 2010. under its belt. What will it take for number seven ?

thVOLUME XCVIIe, ISSUE NO . 1Ric5 STUDENT-RUe N SINCE 1916 FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2010 Rice-BCM Closure of merger colleges saving green falls apart BY DIANE RAMIREZ THRESHER STAFF BY JOSH RUTENBERG THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF In keeping with its recent efforts to go green, the university has also After more than a year of discus- attempted to stay in the black. The sion, and only two weeks from the university decided to close the resi- Jan. 31 deadline of their Memorandum dential colleges over winter break of Understanding, Rice and Baylor with the hopes of reducing its carbon College of Medicine have ended dis- footprint with the aim of saving an cussions to merge the two institutions. estimated $100,000 in utility bills. In a joint statement between Rice and Although Housing and Din- BCM sent via e-mail last Tuesday, Rice ing is in the process of computing President David Leebron and BCM more accurate data and numbers, Interim President William Butler in- it is clear that the university saved formed their respective communities at least $35,000 by closing the col- that while no formal merger will take leges, Housing Operations Manager place, there will be future efforts to Mark Chaszar said. This figure is a strengthen the existing relationship preliminary number, but is expect- between the two schools. ed to be much higher once all the . . , Martel College junior Chris Kopcynzski speaks at the McMurtry College town hall In the joint statement, Leebron and calculations are complete. Butler left open the possibility of ex- DIIII51 ngine meeting Monday to discuss the college's future. McMurtry and Duncan College are stl panding collaborations between the in- IT13SS6S tOgGthcr " w'thout many of the necessities of a college, such as masters or upperclass- a stitutions, such as in the neuroscience men, but both colleges are ramping up the process to fulfill these necessities. and global health initiative programs. "While we are bringing the merger We had good results, • discussions to a close, we are opening a new chapter of collaboration that we haven't received will advance the field of biomedicine Beer Bike parade changes proposed any complaints, and and improve human health," the we have made sure [the statement said. BY JOCELYN WRIGHT 11 colleges, as well as the Graduate Stu- tion races. In an e-mail, Director of News and THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF dent Association. "Sort of like what they did for students] were safe. "Overall, it's going to be a longer- powderpuff, it would be great to let Media Relations B.J. Almond wrote, Mark Chaszar lasting track, which is going to be great the new colleges experience [Beer "Rice and Baylor agreed not to do me- As the Beer Bike coordinators pre- Operations Manager dia interviews about the merger and to pare for the 50-day countdown to Beer for Beer Bike next year and hopefully Bike] in the atmosphere of the es- let the joint statement from both presi- Bike on Jan. 29, they are also propos- something that will actually save mon- tablished programs at Will Rice and dents speak for itself." ing significant changes to the parade ey in the long run because we actually Baker," she said. 99 In the months leading up to and security system and have reached have a good track," Henderson said. The total cost of the project is es- the decision, students and faculty a final decision about accommodating Martel College senior Kristin An- timated to be between $100,000 and voiced their concerns, both for and Duncan College and McMurtry College derson, who has competed in one Beer $150,000. Henderson said Beer Bike Rice was able to cut its costs against the merger, in a number of in the races this year. Bike and one Beer Run, said she agrees will be responsible for 15 percent of the due to the fact that the residential public meetings. with the decision to wait until next year cost if the capital budget request they colleges had limited power, water "I think the community took in New track will wait to include Duncan and McMurtry on submitted is approved. and air conditioning running over mind that it's not a simple proposition Due to time constraints, Beer Bike the newly resurfaced and resized track. "If we get that funding, which we're break. Although these utilities were but that it's a more complicated situa- Coordinator Brian Henderson said im- "It's probably good that Rice expecting, we can definitely cover the not completely cut off in any col- tion, because there are potential ben provements could not be made to the isn't including Duncan and Mc- cost from our capital reserves," Hen- lege, the reduction was significant efits but also significant costs," Faculty bike track to allow Duncan and Mc- Murtry in the competition races this derson said. "We hope that the cost will in terms of costs. But the reduction Senate member Moshe Vardi said. "I Murtry to compete in the March 20 rac- year," she said. "They most likely go down a little bit because there's a lot in costs is not nearly as high as it would like to think that with this kind es. Instead, an exhibition race between wouldn't be able to field a full team of contingency factored into that plan, could have been, mostly due to the of scrutiny, the administration and the the two colleges will be held between of bikers and chuggers." which is based on FE&P planning for fact that temperatures in Houston board are a lot more cautious in some of the alumni and women's races. For However, Anderson said she potential problems in terms of money." dropped so low. Chaszar said that the decisions they make." next year, Henderson said Facilities, thought the best idea for this year Henderson said he, fellow Beer due to this abnormally cold weath- Vardi, a Computer Science pro- Engineering and Planning will resur- would be to allow the two colleges to Bike Coordinator Nazish Malik and er, Rice had to keep some utilities fessor, believes the atmosphere of face and widen the entire track to make join their sister colleges, Will Rice Col- Assistant Dean of Students Boyd Beck- running, such as heating and hot open discussion encouraged by fac- it large enough to accommodate all lege and Baker College, in the competi- O see BEER BIKE, page 6 • see ENERGY, page 4 ulty and students in the past year al- lowed those involved to make better- informed decisions. One of the larger concerns Vardi and Government officials discuss border safety others had was BCM's existing multi-bil- lion dollar debt, incurred from beginning BY CINDY DINH Bersin, who is responsible for de- should be seen as flows of people, not deny the very serious security construction of its own hospital in 2007. THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF veloping strategy on security, immigra- goods, ideas and capital. challenges caused by organized Financial concerns played a key role in tion, narcotics and trade matters affect- "Stop thinking about security and crime," he said. discussions throughout the process. Rice, like the rest of Houston, is a ing Mexico, describes the two nations' trade promotion as antithetical," Ber- The level of violence was of ut- "BCM's key problem was they don't short trip from the U.S.-Mexico border, relationship as "friendly but proper." sin said. most concern for Mexico and was as have a hospital," Vardi said. "A medical and is directly impacted by immigra- "It is only at the border where He suggested that 90 percent of much a problem of drug users as of school needs to have a partner hospital. tion, making the campus an ideal site asymmetries of power dissolve," Ber- the border security's time should be drug producers, Fernandez said. He They split from Methodist [and later) St. for discussions of border security and sin said, adding that the economic spent on identifying 10 percent of the estimates 95 percent of all the kill- Jude's Episcopal Hospital and they decid- U.S.-Mexico relations. Both Alan Ber- and political power between U.S. and goods and people that border secu- ings in Mexico within the past year ed to build their own hospital instead." sin. Assistant Secretary of the Office of Mexico is equal at the border. rity does not know about. were the result of inter-gang wars or In 2009, BCM announced that it International Affairs and Special Rep- Both Bersin and Fernandez sug- Since the early 1990s, transnation- from failed police operations. Only a planned to cease construction of its resentative for Border Affairs, and Un- gested paradigm shifts to think al crime has grown more sophisticat- small percent are "regular citizens," hospital after the exterior is completed dersecretary of the Interior of Mexico about borders as flows rather than ed and has affected the shared values he said. this year. Vardi speculates that once the Geronimo Gutierrez Fernandez spoke definitive lines. While borders of democracy, rule of law and protec- "It is not acceptable by any means, Rice administration realized conditions about U.S.-Mexico border security at outline the geographic divisions tion of citizens. Fernandez said. but it is important to recognize that," O see BAYLOR, page 6 Rice Wednesday in Duncan Hall. of countries, Bersin said borders "The Mexican government does O see DRUGS, page 5

Shopping for classes No classes Monday Home for the holidays INDEX You're just one measly week into the spring Here's to the man with a plan. Monday is Mar- Go listen to the Borromeo String quartet play Opinion 3 semester — there is still have time to add and tin Luther King Jr. Day. What does that mean? selections by Bartok and Schumann in the Stude News 4 drop classes! (Might we recommend looking No school! If you're not sleeping in, be sure to Concert Hall at 8 p.m. on Tuesday. The event Arts & Entertainment 9 into BROW 111: History of Batman, in Rayzor check out the Rice float in the MLK Parade in is sponsored by the Houston Friends of Music, Sports 11 Calendar 15 Hall 123 next Tuesday at 8 p.m.?) A word of downtown Houston. Also, don't go to class. who provide a number of complimentary tickets, Backpage 16 warning: Tuesday is the last day to return available at the Shepherd School of Music. Call books at the bookstore for a full refund. X5400 and grab yours today. 2 EDITORIAL THE RICE THRESHER FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010

WHAT Do Vou SAT the Rice (Thresher WE FLIP A Coin To Decide This MERGER Merger cancellation Business? necessitates transparency It was slated to be the biggest development Rice had seen since the advent of the college system. It was going to pro- tT PICK pel Rice into the upper echelon of educational institutions in terms of both prestige and research monies. It was going HEADS! to create the intellectual and innovative center of the fourth- largest city in the world's wealthiest nation. Instead, the proposal to merge Rice and the Baylor College of Medicine was the biggest anticlimax our university has seen in recent memory (see story, page l). The sound of the deal fail- ing earlier this week was deafening, and reverberated across the university. We can't say we're not disappointed that the deal fell apart — everyone likes to be part of a historical occurrence, of course — and it is worrisome for those in the Rice-Baylor pro- gram, who will soon be attending a medical school whose fi- nances are in such unsteady waters that the most logical course of action, merging with Rice, was torpedoed. However, there is a silver lining to this implosion. The administration was obviously quite enraptured with seeing this deal through — look no further than President David Leebron's column in our Nov. 20 issue. Thus, we are pleased that they didn't let the possibility of merging with an elite medical school cloud the financial facts. We are disappoint- ed that BCM could not get its house in necessary order, but we are happy knowing that the administration and the Board of Trustees recognized the evidence that precluded this deal from taking place. But the death of the proposed acquisition does not mean that Rice should let the momentum gained from the discussions die. We applaud the university for thinking big in such an instance, and though a wrong turn resulted, it should take solace in the fact that it committed its due diligence in these efforts. From the perspective of a media organization, we would WHAT REALLY WENT DOWN call for the university to be forthcoming with what nixed the proposal. Rice and its constituents are often forthcom- ing with information, so this sustained secrecy goes against precedent. At the least, a statement of the reason they will not reveal the sticking points is required. After such a lengthy and confusing process, some clarity on LETTERS TO TH E EDITOR thresher-ops@rice. edu, twitter, com/thericethresher the matter is needed. Perhaps then, some of the anticlimactic nature of this non-deal can be dispersed. own identities. Last year, a large Baker/Will Rice-dominated version of Online Comments group of motivated freshmen and one of the most exciting days of their of the Week sophomores should have been cho- freshman year. sen to form bonds and establish MBYM12 Beer Bike proposals In response to "Martel erroneously unified college spirit before Orien- labeled as a mistake," Dec. 4: tation Week. Maybe then the new In response to "Lack of discussion poorly calculated Thank God someone finally wrote Duncaroos and McMurtrians would stigmatizes sexuality," Dec. 4: this article. I was really getting sick of know what color to wear to their It is sad, but 1 perfectly understand Since Lance Berkman did not answer our calls for aid ("An the quotes from the dean's office in the own powderpuff games. why instructors feel uneasy about open letter to Lance Berkman, concerning Beer Bike," Nov. 20), Thresher saying that they don't want a Also frustrating is the university's discussing human sexuality. Even we applaud the necessary parties for taking it upon themselves repeat of Martel College's founding. lack of foresight as to the integration though 1 normally do not feel insecure On another note, I totally agree of the new colleges into Beer Bike. about sex, as an instructor 1 would be to pony up the funds to construct the new Beer Bike track (see with the last statement. Indeed, the The track is too small for 12 teams. worried about being sued for sexual story, page 1). The annual event is unfairly shunned by the uni- new colleges aren't really colleges An expansion won't be completed harassment. Sexual topics represent versity, so the recognition of its inherent importance — to the at all, and I feel sorry for the fresh- until next fall at the earliest. 1 would minefields in the United States. tune of more than $100,000 — is a commendable feat. men who had to be the foster chil- hate to be one of the freshmen at the I'm glad that I work in a discipline Alas, that is where our applause ends. We've looked over the dren of Will Rice College and Baker new colleges that could very well be that lets me pretend, without detri- College — in their own homes, no forced into a two-contender exhibi- proposed changes. We agree with sentiments — safety should ment to the studied subject, that sexu less. I guess this is largely a result tion race. It's degrading. I'll bet a lot ality doesn't exist (which in computer be the preeminent concern of the organizers of the school-wide of the need to house Will Rice and of those kids smiled at the thought science is almost true anyway). race. However, and we hesitate to sound like codgers opposed to Baker while their facilities undergo of cheering on their college at Beer Mathias Ricken any notion of change, the proposed shifts of the parade, both in much-needed renovations, but the Bike long before they were even ac- Computer science graduate student location and logistics, are resoundingly incompetent. administration has really done a cepted to the university. Instead, poor job of giving the colleges their they'll just get a watered-down, For instance, examine the suggestion that a neutral third party would somehow monitor fines and penalties with stricter and keener eyes. It is certainly possible that heavier fines could Casey Michel result, but a third party would not only add more unnecessary Editor in Chief The Rice Thresher, the official student news- paper at Rice University since 1916, is pub bodies, it would bring in outside parties to a thoroughly Rice- Sarah Rutledge lished each Friday during the school year, centric tradition. The security must be better trained, yes — but Senior Editor except during examination periods and holi- NEWS days, by the students of Rice University. we do not need to bring in Blackwater to do our jobs. Cindy Dinh Editor Ariel Shnitzer Asst. Photo Editor Meanwhile, removing the trucks — long a call from a minor- Josh Rutenberg Editor David Rosales Multimedia Manager Letters to the Editor must be received by Jocelyn Wright Editor 5 p.m. the Monday prior to publication and ity of Rice's population — seems to be on its way. Which is, of Jaclyn Youngblood Editor Stephen Wang Web Editor must be signed, including college and year if Dennis Qian ^ssf. Web Editor the writer is a Rice student. Letters should not course, a complete atrocity. The limiting of trucks last year was exceed 250 words in length. The Thresher re- OP-ED Eric Doctor Design Director one thing; their removal altogether would be anathema to the serves the rights to edit letters for content and Christine Pao Editor Zach Castle Head News Designer length and to place letters on our Web site. fight itself. Safety concerns about the trucks are minimal; the Kay Fukui Cartoonist trucks are moving five miles per hour, and that is only after the BUSINESS Editorial & business offices are SPORTS Yvette Pan Manager located on the second floor of the Ley Stu- streets have been cleared. It is borderline ridiculous to believe Natalie Clericuzio Editor Jessie Huang Subscriptions Manager dent Center: that the trucks could potentially run over someone out there, Jonathan Myers Assistant Editor Charlie Ary Distribution Manager Gustavo Herrera Distribution Manager 6100 Main St., MS-524 unless that person is looking for an excuse not to bike against ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Sergio Jaramillo Distribution Manager Houston, TX 77005-1892 Phone (713) 348-4801 Editor Will Rice College. Joe Dwyer Fax (713) 348-5238 ADVERTISING E-mail: [email protected] It appears that, unlike previous changes to Beer Bike, COPY Cathleen Chang Ads Manager Web site: www.ricethresher.org these changes are not taking place organically; rather, they Anna Wilde Editor Molly Slattery Ads Manager Rose Cahalan Editor Tiffany Kuo Classified Ads Manager Unsigned editorials represent the major seem to be directed in a top-down manner. We call on Stu- ity opinion of the Thresher editorial staff. dent Association President Patrick McAnaney to open a cen- STAFF COORDINATOR CALENDAR All other opinion pieces represent solely the opinion of the piece's author. tralized, school-wide forum on the manner, both online and Catherine Bratic Brian Reinhart Editor The Thresher is a member of the Associated at a forthcoming SA meeting. Student opinion needs to gov- MEDIA BACKPAGE Collegiate Press, Casey is the worst kind of ern Beer Bike — not the wishes of a small minority. Lauren Schoeffler Photo Editor Kyle Barnhart Editor person. © Copyright 2009 Logan Beck Photo Editor Cristina Tortarolo Editor Unless, of course, that minority is Berkman, in which case whatever he says goes. Op-Ed College transfers deserve understandingCatholic Church abandons As YOU MAY have already heard, upon reviewing my options, I felt I am not here to argue for or the Office of the Dean of Under- most drawn to this school, with against any of these individual rea- social services for homeless graduates has offered a limited the residential college system as a sons; every potential transfer must number of students the option particular standout. make his or her own deliberation. ONE OF MY favorite parts of going houses low-income residents. The to transfer to Duncan College or It is true that each college of- And the decision they reach must home to Washington D.C. for the Catholic Church plays an important McMurtry College at the beginning fers a close-knit community and a remain their own. Although we are holidays is the opportunity to find role in protecting some of society's of the next academic year. The pro- sense of belonging. But what really all Owls, each of us came to Rice for out what's really going on in na- most vulnerable individuals. cess was intended to populate the distinguishes this system from a our own reasons. tional politics. Sure, you can watch In an odd departure from its pre- new colleges, which each currently fraternity or sorority is the tangible And this decision about whether the news or read the newspaper vious charitable efforts, however, boast one class, with upperclass- unity between the various colleges. to transfer is no different. anywhere in this country and learn the Catholic Church threatened to men — a necessary goal. I had heard of the isolation and Aesop once wrote, "In union there about current events. But only in remove all of its aid for the homeless separation of Greek life at other is strength." These words reflect the D.C. are people truly immersed in if the gay legislation were to pass. institutions, but it was something significance of our residential col- the political arena. Fortunately, the council didn't bend, I felt the residential college system lege system. Every college houses its and the Dec. 1 vote, which required would uniquely avoid. At Rice, our own students, uses its own coat-of- the Church to provide equal benefits undergraduate experience is not arms and follows its own constitu- to its gay employees and prohibited defined by our individual college, tion. Unlike students living in frater- it from denying adoption services to but instead by the union of them. nities or sororities, we aren't urged gay couples, passed. to spend the majority of our time The Church's message, coming within our own college. Instead, we directly from the Vatican, has stat- Kern Vijayvargiya St are able to make friends from across ed that such practices violate its re- campus and appreciate each college Patrick McAnaney ligious ideology. Therefore, Wuerl But unfortunately, a seedy and It is my sincere belief for its own merits. alleged, it would not be able to sign despicable result has taken place. The Office of the Dean of Under- contracts with the city government Instead of fostering a new sense of that the majority of graduates has indicated that we are So when I went home this winter and would thus be forced to reduce community within the new colleg- transfers love their still below the required quota of break, I was surprised to discover that many of the services it now pro- es, this process has engendered a original college, transfers, the original goal being 130 one of the hottest topics had noth- vides to the homeless. wave of infighting within the other and 150 students per college. As such, ing to do with the White House or The homeless, of course, were fu- residential colleges. myself included. there will likely be a third round of in- Congress, but rather with the intense rious at the threat. In the most recent It seems that some students feel vites, and this process will continue. battle brewing between the Catholic edition of Street Sense, a newspaper that those seeking to transfer are dis- w Decisions will be made — some stu- Archdiocese of Washington, the City produced and sold by the city's poor, playing disloyalty to their original dents will stay at their colleges and Council and the homeless. The issue? five homeless individuals criticized colleges. As a Jones College sopho- others will transfer. Believe it or not, gay marriage. the Church for abandoning them more transferring to McMurtry, I wit- When I matriculated, there were It is my sincere belief that the ma- in order to send a political message nessed the controversy reported in nine colleges; now, with the addi- jority of transfers love their original about homosexuality. a recent Thresher article ("Transfer tion of Duncan and McMurtry, there college, myself included. So to those tt The message I took from this de- troubles arise," Dec. 4) firsthand. are 11. These new colleges have al- who remain at the original colleges, bate was loud and clear. Even though I am not writing to weigh in on ready contributed, and will continue don't think the new physical distance I believe in the the Catholic Church preaches social that matter; that time has passed. to add, to the diversity and spirit of across campus will separate us. We Church's commitment justice and charity, it is completely Rather, I would like to respond to our university, and I know that many value the friendships we have built, willing to throw the needy under a the general angst that surrounds transfers plan to help shape them. the stories we have shared and the to social justice and bus in order to advance its archaic re- the transfer process. As one of the I realize that some students have life we have enjoyed. Although we charitable causes, ligious dogma. As a former Catholic, j transferring students, I would ask different motives for their decision leave to open a new chapter in our it was hard for me to accept this. I be- my fellow Owls for understanding to transfer. Some may hope to meet undergraduate education, we have and I always believed lieve in the Church's commitment to regarding this decision. new people. Some may be trans- no intention of closing the last. that the Church social justice and charitable causes, A resident of Florida, I will ferring alongside a group of close prioritized curing and I always believed that the Church admit I had never heard of Rice friends. Some may simply be look- Kern Vijayvargiya is a prioritized curing the sick and feed- before applying to college. But ing to avoid living off campus. lories College sophomore. the sick and feeding ing the hungry above its political the hungry above its doctrine. The fact that it would rather abandon D.C.'s homeless than allow political doctrine. gays to adopt shows how wrong I was First semester challenging yet rewarding The fact that it would in this assumption. rather abandon D.C. 's When the bill passed by an 11-2 IT'S THE START of the second semes- of optimism, a smidgeon of awe frame ceased to be my own and margin, the Catholic Church issued ter at Rice. This means a last-minute and two hours of jet lag. Had you the high schooler with his chest homeless than allow a scathing critique arguing that its scramble for books and classes as asked me a year ago where I would puffed out was no more. By Octo- gays to adopt shows religious freedom had been jeopar- Owls gear up for another academic be going to college, Houston, and ber's pumpkin grades, I was almost dized. It has since been negotiating term at one of the most prestigious by extension Rice, would be the last ready to call it quits. how wrong I was in with the D.C. city government to academic institutions in the nation. thing on my mind. this assumption. reach an understanding to the con- But before getting back into the hus- Yet somehow, here I was. I knew flict, but no timetable has been set. tle and bustle of school life, this is a so very little about Rice. I wondered 4i 99 good time to reflect on what was, for if I would fit in. I wondered how many, their first semester at Rice. classes would be. I wanted to meet I knew so very fi some of the smiling people in the little about Rice. I On Dec. 1, the D.C. City Council Rice brochures that frequented my voted on a law legalizing same-sex It is disgraceful mailbox, ask them about the cause wondered if I would marriage. As 11 of 13 council mem- to me that an of their happiness. I wondered how fit in. I wondered bers openly supported the bill, it was long it would take for this place to expected to pass easily. The Catholic institution that how classes would feel like a home, if it ever would. Church, per usual, had been one preaches love and Then O-Week happened: a blur of be. I wanted to meet of the most vociferous opponents compassion is faces, shenanigans and flooded bath- some of the smiling of the legislation. In November, room floors. Ice was broken, scaven- the Conference of Catholic Bishops willing to use the Kevin Lin people in the Rice wrote a letter, supported by Wash- gers were hunted and food was eaten D.C. homeless as a under a giant yurt. Marches were brochures that ington Archbishop Donald Wuerl, Reactions can vary depending on conducted in an attempt to intimi- describing same-sex marriage as "a pawn in this debate. the student, and answers encompass date the neighboring clans. In our frequented my multifaceted threat to the very fabric everything from relief at still being case, war was declared on the Dunca- mailbox, ask them of society" that affects "the intrinsic 99 alive and functioning, to the expres- roos. In McMurtry College's first jack about the cause of dignity of every human person and sion of boundless joy that radiates as a college, an early raid of Duncan the common good." with the warmth of the Houston sun. College at 2 a.m., my roommate and their happiness. However, this approach made It's clear that the Archdiocese I want to take this moment to offer I stumbled upon a Bakerite who was little progress with the council. As of Washington now faces a crucial my two cents as the respite of winter taking an early shower. He chased af- 99 such, in a sinister twist, the church choice. It can recognize that our na- break provides me the time and ease ter us in his shirtless fury, alerting the reverted to another tactic. Wuerl tion is going through a period of cri- of mind required to formulate it. college of our presence and taking my declared that if the law passed. sis and embrace the people on the I arrived at Rice merely a semester roommate hostage. But I pressed on, and remained Catholic Charities would cut off all streets in desperate need of care. Or ago. A young and hapless pre-frosh, I remember watching the fireworks afloat to find that Rice was not services to the city's homeless. it can leave these people to suffer I was merely trying to find a parking exploding in the distance, soaring simply an astounding school, but Poverty is a serious problem in in order to take a stand against the spot by McMurtry College when three brightly for but a moment before burst- an astounding community. My life, Washington. As an independent gay community. disreputable hooligans chased me ing in a spectacular explosion of lights since my arrival at Rice, has a been district with a weak tax base and I believe the Catholic Church has down, snatched my luggage and car and colors. It was at that moment that a series of incredible moments that a dependence on allocations from every right to express its opinions ried it up to my room. I felt the smallness of my existence: shine like a cascade of fireworks in the federal government, the city has regarding freedom of religion and Given an Orientation Week a pale figure under a night sky lit up a dark night sky. With the first se- historically had limited resources to same-sex marriage, but it is dis- t-shirt and enough reading material with dazzling fireworks, illuminating mester under my belt, all my initial devote to the poor. As a result, D.C. is graceful to me that an institution to placate even the fiercest academ, all the people around me who were, in questions have been answered and the jurisdiction with the third-highest that preaches love and compassion I claimed my side of the room, rolled many regards, my betters. all initial worries have been dis- poverty rate, one of the highest homi- is willing to use the D.C. homeless as out the bed sheets and stowed my Any illusion of competence was carded. And don't worry, I plan to cide rates and one of the worst public a pawn in this debate. This is not the luggage under the bed, where it has slowly but systematically eliminat- disrupt a few more Baker showers school systems in the nation. Many Catholic Church that I grew up in. remained unopened ever since. ed as the weeks pressed on. I was before my time is out. of the citv's poor and homeless rely At this point, I had been at Rice introduced to the other side of the on services provided by non-govern Patrick McAnaney is a for about an hour. My excitement bell curve. The theory of relativitv Kevin Lin is a ment organizations such as Catholic Brown College senior and was tinged with a healthy helping ceased to be a theory, the inertial McMurtry College freshman. Charities, which feeds, clothes and Student Association president. 4 NEWS THE RICE THRESHER FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 • ENERGY Student published in national magazine FROM PAGE 1

BY MICHELLE PHILLIPS ten, Roman penned a nonfiction piece and second-year students with a Inn, said that although she did not water circulation, to prevent dam- about her seventh birthday, spent GPA of 3.4 or above. go home to Macedonia, she had an THRESHER STAFF age to the university's water pipes. with distant relatives in Ecuador, and The organization has 240 chap- During the time that the colleges enjoyable break, mainly due to the It is one thing to have your work the connections she found with the ters nationwide. The one-time $75 closed, a total of 23 days, 69 Rice living situation she experienced. read on your own campus, but one family members she barely knew. joining fee primarily goes to funding students stayed at the Holiday Inn "The rooms were wonderful and Rice student recently found her work the scholarships and offerings the and Suites Houston Medical Center, the hotel personnel worked hard to read on campuses across the nation. society provides, Deegan said, one of 1.5 miles from campus. The univer- make sure [the students] were hap- Cintia Roman, a Lovett College soph- U them being The Collegiate Scholar. sity subsidized costs so that each py," she said. omore, had her short story, "Birthday Roman joined NSCS during the student paid $275 to stay. Chaszar said student safety was in Ecuador," published in the fall first semester of her freshman year, paramount. Also, unlike last year, The message of The accommodations includ- 2009 issue of The Collegiate Scholar, she said, and is now the secretary of there were no significant problems ed transportation via bus during which is produced by The National family connected- the Rice chapter. As part of her du- with vandalism or damages to the move-in and move-out days, trans- Society of Collegiate Scholars. ness and love across ties, she helped organize an induc- portation to Target and Fiesta, and empty colleges. The Collegiate Scholar, NSCS's on- tion ceremony Dec. 7 for new chap- organized trips to museums and Evaluating the policy in a posi- the world was very line literary magazine, is published ter members. athletic events. tive light, Chaszar said that the mon- once at the end of every semester and touching, and I She said she has always been While the rooms had kitchenettes, ey saved this year with the process features poems, short stories, essays, interested in writing, and has had a variety of meals were also provided likely means that H&D will close the wanted to share it journalism, art and photographic some of her poems published in to the students. One of the first din- colleges again next winter break. pieces. All members of the society with our members. local, state and national antholo- ners upon arriving at the hotel also "We had good results, we haven't may submit work, Janine Deegan, the gies before. However, according to included a chocolate fountain. received any complaints, and we have Kayla Manning Outreach and Communications Coor- Roman, it was her creative writing McMurtry College freshman Ani made sure [the students] were safe," NSCS official dinator for NSCS, said. class last semester, ENGL 201: In- he said. Ristovska, who stayed at the Holiday troduction to Creative Writing, that "We wanted this magazine to be ft a way for students to showcase their inspired her to write this story. talent," Deegan, who oversees the "I didn't even take the class for publication of the magazine, said. "The message of family connect- the distribution requirement — I STUDENT ASSOCIATION MINUTES According to Deegan, this has been edness and love across the world just took it for myself," Roman said. The following were noted at the most recent meeting of the magazine's goal since its found- was very touching, and I wanted to The piece she submitted to The Col- the Student Association on Jan. 11. ing in 2002, when it became the share it with our members," Kayla legiate Scholar was actually the first online literary magazine open Manning, the Region 5 Manager of first assignment for that class, Ro- solely to college students. NSCS, said of Roman's piece. Man- man said. She said she hopes to get • Student Association President Patrick McAnaney talked about Roman, a cognitive science ning was on the panel for judg- into ENGL 301: Fiction Writing this the campus master plan, which was presented to the SA by Uni- major following a pre-medical ing submissions to The Collegiate semester. While she admits that her versity Architect David Rodd last semester. Further discussions track, was among 19 students from Scholar this semester. Though they hobby does not seem to coincide about the plan will involve a survey consisting of six topics: green around the country whose work receive dozens of submissions, the with her aspirations to be a doctor, space, campus social dynamic, parking and traffic, undergradu- was chosen to be published in the magazine's guidelines allow for Roman said that her dream would ate growth, recreation and athletics and campus aesthetics. most recent edition of the maga- only three short stories to be select- be to somehow combine the two. zine, according to its Web site. The ed for each issue. Roman said that "I used to tell people that my • External Vice President Amber Makhani said the senate sent a let- magazine is only one of the many she received notification that her dream job was to be a doctor in a ter to Dean of Undergraduates Robin Forman addressing student- scholarships and awards offered by story had been selected the Sunday third-world country who wrote about specific needs and requests for the next athletic director. Key NSCS, Roman said. of Thanksgiving break, though it her experiences," Roman said. was only posted online recently. points included embracing the college system, removing divisions "I just found [the magazine] there, But even if that dream is not re- Roman said she primarily joined alized, Roman said she certainly in- between students and student athletes, cooperating with campus just snooping through all the options that they have," Roman said. NSCS to take advantage of the tends to continue creative writing as civic groups and engaging with the campus. Wiess College junior After reading the stories of previ- scholarships and discounts that a hobby. Tiffany Gill is the undergraduate representative on the committee ous editions, Roman said, she decided the society offered. According to To read Roman's piece, go to to select the athletic director to replace Chris Del Conte, who left to submit her own. In what she says Deegan, NSCS is an interdisciplin- www.tinyurl.com/RomanEcuadorStory. for Texas Christian University in October. was the first story she has ever writ- ary honors society that invites first- Her story is on page 25.

• McAnaney, a Brown College senior, presented the history of the Student Center and the prospects for its remodeling (see story, page 7).

• Director of Elections Ronnie Ren announced that general elec- tions are coming soon. More information will be announced at the next SA meeting, which will be held next Monday at 9 p.m. in the Farnsworth Pavilion.

www.chickenkitchenhouston.com

warm up your winter A/ith... coffeehouse

Every day after 4pm any regular size chop-chop and drink for $5.55 when you show your Rice University ID 'cannot be combined with another other offer* CK RICE VILLAGE CK DOWNTOWN 2516 Rice Blvd McKinney PlaceTunnel coprtiMOJ** Tel: 713-523-2323 9030 Main ST Suite T-240A Tel: 71 3-752-2323 FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 THE RICE THRESHER NEWS 0DRUGS Fond memories abound for Fraser, 52 FROM PAGE 1

Fernandez said. tion in a timely manner and a shared BY JOSH RUTENBERG a Japanese tradtion. Fraser had one The level of violence may be a infrastructure to have similar systems THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF cat in particular that she kept in her personal issue for individuals with operating in each government. massage room at Rice. It will remain families living along the border, re- "What happens at the border does Massage therapist Julia Fraser, there, Page said. gardless of its impact on the aver- not necessarily originate at the bor- who worked at the Wellness Center, Fraser was also among the mas- age Rice student. der," Fernandez said. died Dec. 24. She was 52. sage therapists who gave 10-minute "From my limited time in Hous- The event was preceded by a his- The Wellness Center notified the massages to students during the ton, there are a lot of Mexican toric signing of a document of the Rice community of Fraser's death, President's and Dean's Study Break immigrants here," Jones College Puentes Consortium, which provides of natural causes, via e-mail Jan. 4. last semester. freshman Chris Keller said. "A lot a forum for university presidents from A memorial service for Fraser was For Fraser, her work at the Well- of people have families in these both sides of the border to discuss conducted in the Rice Memorial ness Center was more than just a job. border cities. It's not such a per- U.S.-Mexico relations and research Chapel Tuesday. "Rice had become a part of her sonal issue for me, but to a lot of initiatives. The five participating Fraser joined the Wellness Cen- life," Page said. "She enjoyed being other people it's a matter of [ask- universities were Rice, the University ter staff in January 2004 and found on campus." ing], 'Can my family be safe?"' of Arizona, Instituto Tecnologico de ways to share her interests with The Wellness Center is in the pro- The Mexican government is con- Estudios Superiores de Mexico, Uni- students, Wellness Center Director cess of searching for a new massage fronting organized crime through ar- versidad de las Americas Puebla and Emily Page said. Fraser integrated therapist, and it hopes to offer the rests and extradition, but Fernandez Universidad de Monterrey. her lengthy experience with the spa Julia Fraser service again within the next month. said it is important for citizens to "I was suprised to hear that industry and her own personal val- Updates can be found on the Wellness know that both governments recog- among the U.S. schools, Rice was ue into teaching LPAP 178: The Art Center Web site at wellness.rice.edu. nize the problems and work to address one of them," Sid Richardson Col- of Relaxation. formation entertaining and fun to be Students and faculty wishing to them. To accomplish this, Fernandez lege sophomore Amir Nikahd said. "[Fraser's] approach in the class- in class." pay respects can visit the Wellness outlined a joint security strategy that "I'm proud that Rice is being in- room was to expand the notion of This spring, Fraser was scheduled Center over the next few weeks to involves pre-certified trade and trav- volved in this and hopefully it gets taking care of oneself and finding to once again teach the LPAP. The sign a print that will hang in the of- el, sharing border security informa- more attention." balance," Page said. course will still be offered this semes- fice. The Wellness Center has also Students shared in Fraser's ter with an instructor the Wellness made a donation in her name to the classroom enthusiasm. Center selected. Houston Society for the Prevention of "Her class was great, and she was Aside from her work at Rice, Cruelty to Animals. Students hoping always excited and down to earth," Fraser was known for her collec- to make a donation in her memory Baker College junior Lauren Rosen- tion of maneki neko cats, cats that can do so at the Houston SPCA Web berg said. "She tried to make the in- are placed in businesses as part of site, houstonspca.org.

NGAGEMENT COMMUNITY 1NVOLVEMENT CENTER

INTERESTED IN MAKING AN IMPACT THIS SUMMER? VOLUNTEER ABROAD!

'he Community Involvement Center has two unique summer opportunities for non-graduating students:

Loewenstern Fellowship Earn a stipend of up to $6,500 for a summer of international service in Latin Undersecretary of the Interior of Mexico Geronimo Gutierrez Fernandez discussed ways to reduce organized crime along the U.S.-Mexico border at America or Asia! As a Fellow you will have the opportunity to serve in a 4-12 the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy Wednesday. week placement.

International Service Project to Guatemala Participate in a two-week group service experience in San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala. The ISP group will work with a parish on a variety of locally led initiatives such as a reforestation project and a construction project. I Application deadlines: Wednesday, January 27 at 5:00 pm

Showcase how you have spent your time at Rice University, whether you want to focus on academics, the residential colleges, sports, traditions, or another aspect of your life!

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three videos, along with prizes for videos with a focus on:

• Wellness • Civic Engagement • • Sustainability • New Residential Colleges • • Student Organization • Academic or Research Focus • FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY TO EITHER PROGRAM. • Library Resources • PLEASE VISIT THE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT CENTER'S WEB SITE. Full details on the contest, including information on campus resources and HTTP://CIC.RICE.EDU copyright information, are available at http://cic.rice.edu/videocontest.

Completed videos are due by s:oopm on March 26, 2010, DISCOVER. VOLUNTEER. LEAD. but start you planning and filming early! C:K .RicE.nnu HE CENTER FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT ^RICE Sponsored By Digital Media Center, Fondren Library, Department of Information Technology, Off ice of the Dean of Undergraduates, Off ice of Student Activities, Office of Sustainability, Community Involvement Center, and the Wellness Center TEACH for testmasters! (...and get paid for all the training!) Full and Part Time Positions available now. Looking for Dynamic and Energetic Teachers. Pay rate is $18 to $30 per hour. Call (281) 276-7743 or email us at rice-jobs(5)testmasters.com. 6 NEWS THE RICE THRESHER FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010

MAN ON THE STREET What do you think about postponing the water How do you feel about adding two new bike lanes to balloon fight until after the Beer Bike parade? the Beer Bike track for McMurtry and Duncan?

1 ES*

"I think if we make the parade ridicu- "It wouldn't be as fun. In the past, "It's expensive, but it's a necessity. "I'm from Sid and traditionally we lous, it will be worth it. It becomes a you get to run around on different [McMurtry and Duncan] are part of don't care about the biking part. competition for each college to get terrain, and it's super muddy. If the community now and the two I'm assuming for more competi- their bikers to the track in the most it's at the stadium, they should do tracks will better integrate them into tive colleges it's important. It's all ridiculous fashion." something like Capture the Flag to the Rice community." about how we can most creatively defend your territory." disqualify ourselves."

Will Randall Vu Nguyen Gracelyn Tan Michelle Li Hanszen College junior Lovett College junior Hanszen College sophomore Sid Richardson College junior

leges to get all of the balloons to the an outside agency, such as a frater- Bike Coordinators are working to make the more you talk about it, the site. nity from the University of Houston, Beer Bike more unified with the rest of more you talk about how it would O BEER BIKE increase safety and really maintain FROM PAGE 1 Additionally, since there are only that serves as a neutral force. the Willy Week events. two entrances to the field, Hender- "We must make sure security's do- "We've been looking at introduc- the essential elements of a water with are also partnering with athletics son said RUPD and REMS would be ing their thing and not staying 50 feet ing a voice of Willy Week, where the balloon fight, once they hear the to acquire more bleachers. He said they better able to monitor the site and away and writing ridiculous fines," person would serve as a moderator reasons they're more likely to see currently borrow the bleachers from keep it secure. Henderson said. "That's not a deter- of the Beer Debates, an MC on the where we're coming from," Hender- Reckling Park, but that they are hoping Although the water balloon fight rent to dangerous behavior." tower at Beer Bike and ... as the son said. to acquire their own bleachers so that may seem like it has been around for Henderson pointed out that, as it spokesperson for Willy Week/Beer Henderson encouraged students they do not have to schedule Beer Bike decades, Henderson said the tradition stands, these proposals are still just Bike," Henderson said. to send e-mails to [email protected] around the baseball team's schedule. is only about a decade old. that: proposals. Nothing substantial Henderson said the group is also with their opinions and suggestions "It used to be an actual parade, a has changed from last year's parade, working to have better concessions about the proposal. Caretaker system procession of the riders and the chug which means that this year's events and beverages at the races this year. "This is new territory for us and This year, a caretaker system simi- teams where the colleges would make are still slated to be the same. Although the proposal was initial- everybody and we want to make lar to the one at Night of Decadence floats and people would come from off "If the alternative plan is outright ly met with skepticism from students, sure there's plenty of input," Hen- will be implemented for Beer Bike. campus to watch it," Henderson said. rejected, we've still got a parade to Henderson said they warmed up to derson said. "We want this to be The caregivers will have training and The balloon fight started when run, and we've told the colleges to pre- the idea after he explained it. something that everybody knows is receive all the benefits of security vol- Wiess College, which was previously pare for that," Henderson said. "A lot of initial reaction is, 'Oh coming and knows why it's coming unteers, including free breakfast and located along the inner loop by Han- This year, Henderson said the Beer no, we don't want to do that!' but and supports." a t-shirt. Henderson said the idea for szen College's master's house, start- an improved caretaker system came ed spraying water at the parade. about last semester in campus-wide "Old Wiess started it, and then it committee discussions. became, 'Let's load trucks with water "[Rice Emergency Medical Ser- balloons,'" Henderson said. "It used vices] expressed concern that in previ- to be that colleges would have both ous years they've been distracted from floats and water balloon trucks, but My password was handling more serious cases because for the last 3-4 years, no college has there's nobody to handle less serious opted to make a float." cases," Henderson said. If there is sufficient student inter- stolen! est, Henderson said he would like to Proposed parade bring the old parade back. The proposal for the parade this The cost of a water balloon fight year, which Henderson stressed is on the football field would be the not final, is to move the water bal- same as the cost of the parade, loon fight to the football practice Henderson said. field. Henderson said this field is Although he understands why stu- significantly larger than the foot- dents may be skeptical, Henderson ball field in the stadium. Colleges said he hopes they consider this new would have stations to which water type of parade. balloons could be ferried from larg- "For years there has been a lot of If you give your er trucks parked near the entrance pressure to eliminate the truck system to the field. In order to prevent one due to safety concerns, and this year password to college from gaining a competitive we believe we have one of the most advantage, the stations would be legitimate alternative plans ever and rotated so that different colleges we have the team and time to get it in anyone, you are are furthest away from the entrance place," he said. each year. Two to three flatbed trucks Beefing up security getting SCAMMED! could park near the entrance to Henderson stressed that the cur- hold balloons. Henderson said col- rent fine and security system for leges could also deliver balloons Beer Bike is ineffective at ensuring to the field the night before, to be student safety. guarded by Rice University Police. "We will be looking at complete- Henderson said there would be a ly overhauling the way security is schedule for balloon delivery and done," Henderson said. trucks could be paired between col- Some ideas include bringing in II you Id 11 lora scdm. D BAYLOR contact your SCC or the FROM PAGE 1 Help Desk immediately to

could not fully satisfy both institutions, lot of research opportunities and as a reset your password: the talks were dropped. whole, not merging will be bad for both "There was disagreement over the institutions," Lovett College sophomore 713.348.help (4357) or last few months, but 1 think they made Matt Carey said. [email protected] the right decision," Vardi said. Ultimately, Vardi said, the merger KWTX-TV in Waco went so far as discussions were something that bound to suggest Baylor University may have the university together, uniting every- made BCM a better offer for a merger one towards a common cause. than Rice was willing to make. Regard- "We ail believe in Rice's potential less, BCM and Rice appear open to fur- for greatness, and we all work very ther cooperative endeavors. hard, even if we disagree on means to Some students, however, said they achieve such greatness," Vardi said. ©RICK were disappointed with the administra- tiflnrmotinn T>r,h«Blrav tion's decision. Jocelyn Wright contributed to this "I think ... Rice has lost out on a article. DON'TGIVE UP YOUR PASSWORD TO ANYONE, FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 THE RICE THRESHER NEWS New house for Wiess masters set to break ground in February

BY JOCELYN WRIGHT tate, supplemented by money from he worked closely with the archi- THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF Housing and Dining. tect to ensure that the house was EVERYTHING IN ITS RIGHT PLACE The house, which will have three friendly to students. A great re-shuffling of building tenants will Construction of the Wilson House, bedrooms instead of the four in the "One thing that went back and (FROM DUNCANJ ) occur when Baker College and Will Rice College the brand-new Wiess College mas- current Wiess masters' house, will forth between the architects and ters' house, will begin next month. be slightly smaller and boast much myself was balancing student ac- move back to their The house is named after longtime more modern architecture. The cessibility and privacy for the mas- rightful homes next fall. Wiess Resident Associate Bill Wilson, smaller size will help it meet its ters," Gustin said. "So little minor Follow the diagram to who died last spring. The construc- LEED certification, Hicks said. things came up to make students see who will end up BAKIR MASTERS'HOUSE tion should be completed by the end "LEED guidelines for homes are feel more welcome in the court- where and who is I FORMER TENANT: BAKER MASTERS of the year, and the house is aiming all about living smaller, so it was a yard, such as having double doors getting a new home. CURRENT: HOUSING & DINING for silver Leadership in Energy and challenge with this house because to make the space more open." FUTURE: BAKER MASTERS Environmental Design certification, public areas serve a really important The house will also have a Project Manager Tina Hicks said. function," Hicks said. "We had to be "green" roof, which in this case will HANSZEN MASTERS' HOUSE The house will be located next to mindful of trying to do both at once." be a reflective white roof, Glenn said. FORMER: WIESS MASTERS the east side of Wiess by the South Hicks said the house will have The project will also get LEED points CURRENT: HANSZEN MASTERS Power Plant. Facilities, Engineer- two courtyards with concrete patios for reusing the maple wood flooring FUTURE: HOUSING & DINING ing and Planning Manager of Com- and crushed stone for gatherings, from Autry Court on the second floor • munications Susann Glenn said the and the house's entrance will be on of the house, and installing Energy •nwi WIESS MASTERS' HOUSE cost of construction will be paid the face closest to Wiess. Star-certified appliances. FORMER: HANSZEN MASTERS for by a donation from Wilson's es- Wiess Master Mike Gustin said Once Gustin and his wife, Denise, CURRENT: WIESS MASTERS move into the new house during winter recess, Hanszen College Masters Rob FUTURE: HANSZEN MASTERS and Ann Griffin will move into the old Wiess masters' house, which used to %•T-J NEW WIESS MASTERS' HOUSE be the Hanszen College masters' house FORMER: N/A before new Wiess was built in 2002. CURRENT: N/A Campus Blood Drives Housing and Dining will then move its / FUTURE: WIESS MASTERS offices from the Baker masters' house GRAPHIC BY ERIC DOCTOR Sponsored by Kice Student Volunteer Program (HSYP) to the current Hanszen masters' house. Gustin said he expected the college, while there's a little more Wiess College junior Mary Dozi- January 21-22, 2010 closer proximity of the Wiess and of an expanse between Hanszen er said she is looking forward to the Hanszen masters' houses to en- and its masters' house and Wiess new house. 10: OOa ?77 - 4 :OOp 771 hance the relationship between the and its current masters' house, so "1 think it sounds great, espe- masters and their colleges. the fact that they're bringing them cially because [the current Wiess KMC Farnsuoorth Pavilion "Some of the masters' houses are closer will make it easier for people masters' house] used to belong to really more embedded with their to hang out," Gustin said. Hanszen," Dozier said. Sign up to do?iate at: http://cic. rice, edu HELP MAKE THE WORLD

Gcjlf Const Regional For more Blood Center information, please call Commit for Life. 713-348-4970. S3 RICE Join the Thresher design team.

NEWS IN BRIEF

The question, McAnaney RMC may soon be said, is whether the Student Center should be torn down or undergoing new renovated. President David Lee- renovations bron has voiced his support for building a new student center, At the Student Association but doing so would require mil- meeting Monday, SA President lions of dollars from donors to Patrick McAnaney presented fund the construction. the history of the Rice Memorial McAnaney said typically such Center and opened a discussion fundraising would not be an issue, over future plans concerning the since benefactors usually ask only Student Center. to leave their name on the build- The presentation focused on ing, buttheLeyStudentCenterhas the Student Center's fragmented kept its name since its opening in distribution of space. Because 1958. In order to find a solution, of its internally focused circula- the SA passed a motion to form a tion design, the building does not committee to discuss the future of interact with the central quad, the RMC. Applications to join the Brochstein Pavilion or the Barbara committee will be soon posted on and David Gibbs Recreation Center. the SA Web site at sa.rice.edu. Additionally, the RMC is in need of additional space in orderto accom- — Benjamin Chou modate a growing student body. /&• <% 'll- RV RESORT Rent by Day. Week, Month Furnished/ kitchen fully 10650 SW Plaza Ct.* 713-981-6814 equipped, all amenities 11991 S. Main St.* 713-723-0973 • Private lake, walking track, indoor/ outdoor, Jacuzzi, NO LEASE/ NO DEPOSIT swimming pool, exercise room 2401W. H0LC0MBE BLVD. • Laundry Facility • Free Wi Fi 713.741.0600 • Minutes to Medical Center RV Trailers! 1Q (ask for details) 45 ORDER ONLINE AT JIMMYJOHNS.COM All Star Sppl Lakeview ©MM JIMMY JOHN'S FIINCHISE. UC III II6HTS HSUVH. FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 8 NEWS THE RICE THRESHER the Rice (Ihresher STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916 Subscribe to the Rice Thresher, Rice's student-run weekly newspaper since 1916. For only $60, you'll receive a full year of campus news, opinion, humor, college theater reviews and Rice Owls sports coverage you can't find anywhere else.

YES. I'd like to subscribe to the Rice Thresher, Rice's student-run newspaper.

Name: ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION RATE $60 Domestic Address: $150 International

PLEASE MAIL FORM TO City: the Rice Thresher Attn: Subscriptions Phone #: ( ) P.O. Box 1892, MS 524

State: ZIP: Houston, TX 77251-1892

Payment: Check (payable to 1 Rice University) or fax it to (713) 348-5238. Credit Card

Type of card: Visa ^MasterCard American Express Discover Number: Exp. Date:

Signature: Date: Cardholder agrees to perform the obligations set forth in the Cardholder's agreement with the Issuer. arts& .^ENTERTAINMENT

oliildQrnojte wrap-up NOW loading: 2010 A look back at the best (and worst) flicks that closed out 2009 Will this be the year of the Duke? PHOTOS COURTESY WARNER BROS. PICTURES, 20TH CENTURY FOX, 2K GAMES (5

BY JACKIE AMMONS and middling plot, Avatar's stunning No wonder it was a failure. BY JOE DWYER spellbindingly fantastic, leading THRESHER STAFF visuals pleased audiences and critics Meanwhile, in Did You Hear About THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF players through the underwater dys- alike and earned four Golden Globe the Morgans?, Hugh Grant (Music and topia of Rapture, dripping with Ayn From a studly detective to a blos- nominations. Lyrics) and Sarah Jessica Parker (Sex Last year was all about sequels: Rand-ish undertones and filled with soming queen, this year's holiday films On the other end of the fiscal and the City) performed up to task in Games like Left 4 Dead 2, Uncharted creepy, degenerated residents. The delivered delightful gifts wrapped spectrum, flops performed up to — or the story of a New York couple who 2, Assassin's Creed 2 and Modern atmosphere of the game and its re- from top to bottom. As they often do, below — par, including Everybody's enter the Federal Witness Protection Warfare 2 exploded sales figures and markable art-deco styling creates an a deluge of notable films flooded the- Fine and Did You Hear About the Mor- Program after witnessing a murder. garnered loads of critical acclaim. environment unlike anything that aters over the past few weeks in order gans? The former, starring Robert De While it contained funny moments, But that's all old hat now, right? A had been seen in a game before. to take advantage of vacationing mov- Niro (Righteous Kill), Drew Barrymore the film became more of a low-brow, new year means new games to look With Bioshock 2, developers 2K iegoers and attempt one last swipe at (Whip It) and Kate Beckinsale (Noth- slapstick comedy, with most laughs forward to, so I've picked out the top Marin and 2K Australia will return an Oscar nomination. ing But the Truth), failed to place in originating in rural, Red State-Blue games of 2010 that will have you rush- players to Rapture as one of the origi- While the wealth is often distrib- the top-io grossing films of the holi- State jokes, such as Parker falling off ing to Gamestop to trade in all your nal Big Daddies, complete with rotat- uted fairly equally during the winter day season, amassing a measly $9.2 of a horse and Grant avoiding a bear old crap for the latest and greatest. ing drill arm and plasmid powers. months, 2009 propelled one film to the million. Advertised as a feel-good attack. Still, Grant's witty verbal hu- Bioshock 2 will also feature an addi- head of the class handily. James Camer- movie in which the family is, in fact, mor, perfected over the last decade, Mass Effect 2 tional multiplayer component, being on's (Titanic) Avatar outperformed any fine, the film was a disappointment was entertaining in spite of the film's (Xbox 360, PC) developed separately from the main other film over the holidays by bringing with a depressing ending: One son overall corny nature. Jan.26 game by Digital Extremes, which will in more than $441 million at the time dies, the cocktail waitress daugh- Of course, there were films Continuing the sequel theme es- actually add to and continue the Bio- J of this writing — plus $906 million in- ter has an illegitimate baby and the that fell in the middle of these ex- tablished in 2009, Mass Effect 2 is shock storyline o- e of the single- ternationally — to make it the second- other daughter's husband cheats on tremes. Three major films opened the highly-anticipated follow-up to player experience. highest grossing film of all time. Even her. Everybody's Fine wasn't quite the on the big screen on Christmas 2007's Mass Effect. This time around, with its two-and-a-half hour runtime happy movie that the title projects. O see MOVIES, page 10 Commander Shepard is assembling a Heavy Rain new crew to journey into the danger- (PlayStation 3) ous Terminus system and confront a Feb.23 newfound galactic threat. In development since 2006, Heavy Going back to the 'oud' school with Istanbul I'll keep plot details to a mini- Rain is French developer Quan- mum, mainly so I don't have to re- tic Dream's stab at making "a very search them and ruin the game for dark film-noir thriller with mature BY BRIAN REINHART Istanbul is just as enjoyable for new- provisation for five musicians at myself, but suffice it to say that if you themes," according to game director THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF comers. It is an exotic, spicy feast for once. Improvisation is important in the ears, and a great way to discover Turkish and Arabic folk music, much loved Mass Effect, you'll definitely David Cage. The game follows a group The oud is a millennia-old Middle as it is in jazz, but rather than being want to pick up Mass Effect 2. The of people trying to unravel the mys- Eastern musical instrument that Arab incorporated into each song, improv combat system has been reworked tery behind a serial killer known as conquerors brought to Spain, where stands independently. Musicians are to be less of a hassle and more intui- "The Origami Killer." The game will the locals trimmed down its size, expected to simply make up entirely tive, and players can expect more of play out akin to an interactive movie, lightened the sound and renamed new tunes, or transitions from one the compelling writing and dialogue with contextual controls appearing it the "guitar." However, the guitar song to the next. that developer Bioware has become from time to time to allow the player never caught on in the Muslim world, Istanbul The songs themselves, from Tur- known for. If you've never played the to control the character's actions. and the oud remains, to this day, • • • • • key, Armenia and the Ottoman Sep- original Mass Effect, it's dirt cheap by Heavy Rain is generating a lot of the stringed instrument of choice in hardic community, do not have lyrics now, having sold more than 1.6 mil- buzz for its heavy moral choices wo- countries like Turkey. or even titles, making them hard to lion copies, so grab it on Amazon. ven into the plot, its multiple endings Artist: Hespfcrion XXI, My great-grandmother was one of discuss individually. Some of this mu- and the fact that dying doesn't result Jordi Savall and guests the premier oud teachers in Turkey, sic is meditative, some melancholy, Bioshock 2 in a "game over." Instead, the game Label: Alia Vox meaning, then, that my mother lived some energetic — but all are beautiful. (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC) will transfer its perspective to an- Released: Nov. 30, 2009 in a household filled with great mu- The cumulative effect is one of a magic Feb. 9 other character in the story and the sic. All her memories came flooding carpet ride to a faraway land. Not content to let a great game remaining plot will incorporate the back after 1 put this new CD, Istanbul, Almost none of the featured instru- like Bioshock stand on its own legs, last character's death. Definitely keep 2K Games has decided to give the this game on your radar. into our stereo. Istanbul is a carefully a new musical tradition. Listening to ments will be familiar to American lis- game the franchise treatment and researched, gorgeously performed Istanbul is like being transported to teners, except, of course, percussion. milk it for a sequel. The original was album of Turkish folk music, uniting another world. The ney is a type of flute; the duduk is Battlefield: Bad Company 2 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC) musicians from political rivals Tur- The CD begins with a group im- a see ISTANBUL, page 10 key and Armenia. "The best Turkish March 2 music I've heard in ages," my mother If Modern Warfare 2 fired the first mused, before singing along to sev- LIFE salvo in the first-person shooter war, eral instrumentals. ROCKETS O see GAMES, page 10 The expert opinion is positive, but * DELOREANS "Life in the universe — where The Rockets take on the Mi- is it hiding?" This is the ques- ami Heat tonight at 7:30 p.m. Great Scott! Back to the Future tion that HMNS' latest IMAX LYMBYC at Toyota Center. Man, there (aka "The Greatest Movie of exhibit, Life in the Universe, are so many fire- and heat- All Time, Ever") will be play- attempts to answer. With 2010 According to our Backpage related puns that I could ing tonight and tomorrow marking 50 years since the first Editors, The Lymbyc Systym throw in here, but I won't. I night at River Oaks as part of searches for extraterrestrial (an electronic instrumen- THE will say though that Portland their Midnight Movie Classic life, the film celebrates the tal band from Brooklyn) are WEEKLY is terrible and the Spurs are series. Lights dim at 11:55 P*m. beauty of space and the nooks supposed to be pretty good. going to win the Finals. Cry and tickets will run you $9»5° and crannies of our universe They'll be playing at Rudyard's SCENE some more, Casey. Tickets to each. Save your popcorn after- that might hide life. Check the tomorrow night with doors tonight's game start at $15. wards - Mr. Fusion's hungry. site for more details. 9 p.m. Strictly 21 and up. Joe's picks for events outside the hedges, both TOYOTA CENTER RIVER OAKS THEATRE HMNS RUDYARD'S around Rice and in tfye 1510 POLK 2009 WEST GRAY 1 HERMANN CIRCLE 2010 WAUGH RUDYARDS.S425.SURESERVER.COM Houston area, for this week. WWW.ROCKETS.COM WWW. LANDMARKTHEATRES. COM WWW.HMNS.ORG

-l- FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 10 A&E THE RICE THRESHER O GAMES O ISTANBUL FROM PAGE 9 FROM PAGE 9 have since become Turkish pop tunes. EA and DICE, looking to unseat devel- an indescribably beautiful Armenian My mother began singing along to oper Infinity Ward, have returned fire woodwind with a deep, sad sound one instrumental and revealed that with Bad Company 2, the latest itera- like a baritone sax. The oud gets its it is now the chorus to a love song, tion in the long-running Battlefield share of solos, as does the kamancha, "Katibim," which was even covered franchise. Featuring 15 different types a sort of three-stringed violin. Help- (poorly) by American jazz singer of land, sea and air vehicles, over 40 fully, the booklet that comes with the Eartha Kitt. highly-customizable guns, massive CD has color photographs of all the The Eartha Kitt connection is an fully-destructible environments and featured instruments in action. interesting one, because Turkish folk (gasp!) support for dedicated serv- Roughly half of the performers are music, with its emphasis on small ers and party chat in games, Bad Turks and Armenians who have been ensembles of instruments and con- Company 2 looks poised to topple playing this music for decades. They tinual improvisation, inspires com- Modern Warfare 2 off the first-person are joined by Hesperion XXI, a group parisons to American jazz. But jazz shooter throne. No Javelin glitch of Spanish and French artists whose is, like the country of its birth, fast- here, friends. curiosity and talent leads them to play everything from baroque Bach paced and slick, eager to go exciting God of War III fugues to traditional Afghani songs. new places. (PlayStation 3) The performers are all, for lack of a Turkish music, by contrast, is March better word, awesome. more laid back and contemplative. It Ah, Kratos. How we've missed The CD itself sounds terrific, reflects on the past, half-smiles and you. The epic story of revenge and though better on stereo than on head- slips into a meditative state of dreams. betrayal between Kratos, the Titans phones. The ensemble's presence is My advice: Sit down in a plush chair and the gods of Olympus is all set to big and forceful, as if it were in the with your feet on an Ottoman rug, be wrapped up in the epic conclusion room with the listener, and the bass is sip some hot tea, put Istanbul on the to the God of War saga. Boasting bet- powerful enough in parts (especially stereo and experience for yourself a ter visuals, more interactive environ- in the second track) to cause a distur- Turkish person's idea of heaven. ments and combat on a scale unlike bance at a traffic light. anything you've ever seen, God of One interesting lesson from Istan- Author's note: Do not buy the CD from War III certainly looks like it will be bul is that Turkish folk music has not Amazon.com, which is inexplicably the action game of the year. changed much over the centuries. charging a price three times that of the This album is based on songs com- rest of the Internet. The CD is cheaper Red Dead Redemption posed in the 1700s and preserved in as an import from British sites like (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3) Ottoman archives, but many of them MDT and Amazon.co.uk. April 27 Rockstar Games, the kings of open world, sandbox-style gaming, are S3 MOVIES turning their talents from the mean FROM PAGE 9 streets of Liberty City to the lawless wilds of the Old West in Red Dead Day: Nine, Sherlock Holmes and still made it into the top-io box office Redemption, the sequel to 2004's Red It's Complicated, with the latter re- performances of the season, with the Dead Revolver on PlayStation 2. ceiving the most Golden Globe nomi- musical Nine bringing in $17.2 mil- Set at the beginning of the nations of the trio, including Best Pic- lion — not much, but still nothing to 20th century, the game allows players ture (Comedy or Musical) and one of sneeze at — and the action-adventure to don the spurs of reformed outlaw Meryl Streep's (Julie & Julia) two nom- film Sherlock Holmes with $167 mil- John Marston as he tracks down his inations for Best Actress in a Comedy lion, second only to Avatar. former partner in crime across the or Musical (the other nomination is Within the realm of independent wide-open Western frontier. The crit- for Julie & Julia). films, The Young Victoria stood out ically-acclaimed Rockstar Advanced However, It's Complicated was not with its understated, refined tone and Game Engine (RAGE) that powered quite so complicated and out-of-the-or- fantastic action and production. The Grand Theft Auto IV is also featured dinary as one would hope to see in such Young Victoria tells the story of the in this title, so expect the same realis- an acclaimed film. It lacked the unique first few years of Victoria's (Sunshine tic physics throughout the game. Also story that typically characterizes a film Cleaning's Emily Blunt) lengthy reign expect plenty of action, violence and of Best Picture caliber, as the most as Queen of England. Thrust into the trademark Rockstar wit to color this Top: In an improvement over the previous title, Bioshock 2 will let original part of It's Complicated was the monarchy at the age of 18, she marries Wild West tall tale. Prince Albert (Cheri's Rupert Friend) players dual-wield a plasmid in one hand and weapon in the other, fact that a divorced woman (Streep) has an affair with her married ex-husband and wins the favor of her country's instead of having to switch back and forth. Duke Nukem Forever (My Sister's Keeper's Alec Baldwin) people. The film's magical costumes, Middle: Heavy Rain is shaping up to be a moody, mature and intensely (Unknown) 10 years after their separation. Martin Scorsese's (The Aviator) care- dramatic tale, going so far as delaying Trophy notifications until the "When It's Done" Although Steve Martin (The Pink ful production and Blunt's flawless end of chapters so as to not disrupt the player experience. Hey, I can dream, can't I? As they Panther2) stepped in for the occasional performance made this film excep- say, "Always bet on Duke." Seriously Bottom: Kratos doing his thing in God of War 3. Slick visuals, epic scale laugh, his character wasn't that funny; tional in every way and quite deserv- though, keep your eyes peeled for a and tight controls. What more could you ask for? rather, he was simply a watered-down ing of her Golden Globe nomination trio of Duke Nukem games coming out version of his otherwise hilarious tal- for Best Actress in a Drama. sometime this year for the PlayStation ent. At times, It's Complicated kept While none of this season's holi- Portable and Nintendo DS handheld the audience laughing, but it really day films are instant classics, they systems. Apogee CEO Scott Miller has KTRU TOP 35: WEEK OF (AN. 10,2010 wasn't anything that special — and satisfied. Gems like The Young Vic- said, "The next few years should see Tune in anytime, anywhere @ ktru.org it certainly makes you wonder what toria and blockbusters like Avatar a strong resurgence in Duke." If I may the Golden Globe nominators saw ensured plenty of traffic in the- counter with another Duke-ism, Mr. artist album label in the piece. aters. "Good" — though not really Miller (cracks knuckles): "Whaddya Slavic soul party taketron barbes While not as decorated as It's Com- "great" — is the word to describe the waiting for? Christmas?" jody seabody & the whirls orange ep self-released plicated, Nine and Sherlock Holmes holiday's films. texas funk: black gold from the jazzman/now-again lone star state 1968-1975 psych-funk 1011968-1975 a global world psychedelic various More psychedelic funk curriculum funk classics kuti, fela the best of the black president kalakuta sunrise enfin saddle ringing for the begin again constellation $200 OFF breakestra A&E dusk till dawn strut »rt(l / ivtfOnfiit waits, torn glitter and doom live anti om god is good drag city '>\y ^ Online! various shadow music of thailand sublime frequencies welch, matthew luminosity porter various well-hung finders-keepers Money back (juarantee** various the sounds of wonder finders-keepers music starts from loop 2.4.3 Flexible prep options zodiac dust silence Convenient locations discovery lp xl recordings MCAI lord newborn & th« February 8" April 22'"' Upper Kirby/ River Oaks/ West U lord newborn & the magic skulls ubiquity March 1*' May 20"' Upper Kirby/ River Oaks/ West U magic skulls March 31"'- June 9'" Upper Kirby/ River Oaks/ West U novalima coba coba (remixed) cumbancha QJRE • • -rfr • • January 2©"' March 9"' Rice Village/ Medical Center darge, moniek soundies kye GMAT February 1 7'" March 31*' Upper Kirby/ River Oaks/ West U the mathletes diaperland self-released March 23'u May 6" Rice Village/ Medical Center Leap Year review LSAT. supersilent 9 rune grammofon February 13'' May 2G"' Upper Kirby/ River Oaks/ West U By Jackie Ammons March 6'*- June 3"1 Upper Kirby/ Rivei Oaks/ West U siamese soul: thai pop various sublime frequencies spectacular vol. 2 1960s-1980s DON'T WAIT. THIS IS A LIMITED TIME OFFER! tontons, the the ton tons esthetic noise six organs of admittance luminous night drag city ENROLL BY FEBRUARY 3RD various black rio 2 strut PrincetonReview.com/NewYearSavings Interested in writing or various african scream contest analog africa reviewing for A&E? various Singapore a-go-go sublime frequencies The Send an email to nudge as good as gone kranky Princeton [email protected]. white rainbow new clouds kranky ca Review naked on the vague the blood pressure sessions dual plover platinum pied pipers abundance ubiquity 800-2Review >... / <• v.: . j PrirtcetonReview.com * ?F>R STFJO (ItfciHint 1 S only vnl««t on UPW •nroltmnnt* h«Mw«n«n Jnminrv r» F nlMiimy 3. ?OtO «n No prior experience rival consoles helvetica erased tapes MCAT « I fiAT HyfHth'.ti-nifm »• »«1 /!« < ohtt,it*>(f »• C>MAl .»>»'! fiRt Cli^snHirr • our IH«I dni:otintii HIWI V«IKI on MCAT, IKAf. UMAI awl GRf t iwilrift'it• rour*«s Priv. required. destroy all monsters 74-76 compound annex Tutoring po« witli «t l»u»»t 18 lK>uri o1 tutor my. or Ulttttoitu MCAT D«*r. mint - .moot »>*» r.orttfonod WNTI nity ofhoi OMI-I borders last kingdom self-released * * If your «r.or* tfo*x not improv*. wo II t«»fi#iwl yoot mon*»y Mi>m»v •»•»' * gu.»r »•»»«• •« do*« not We'll teach you the ropes. •ipply In CiMAT or f»Rf. I (vvOnlmi > <»or*<>s Visit Pniu MtonftawwW coiri'giiii'unti'ii for brother all us rhymesavers li»*t nnrm*» Am fhn trmfwnoirVs olrtii'ir 1 HS|ii»ctivu own«rrn wtio nrii not .iff«li.>»t»«» Prior «rton Rwvtww 1* not AffiltMtort w»rt> Pum »ton lin»v«riMtv various wheedle's grove: seattle's finest light in the attic in funk and soul 1965 records SPORTS 11 M COMMENTARY Owls fall in first C-USA matches Baseball's Hot Stove thaws Wide-open conference provides tougher tests than expected By Yan Digilov 'W frigid winter doldrums THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF After delivering mixed perfor- It's been a cold winter. A win- However, Zduriencik's mastery mances throughout their non-confer- ter of noses turned faucets, bones shined in stealing 2008 AL Cy Young ence schedule, the Owls have finally turned brittle and fingers turned winner Cliff Lee, a blockbuster deal arrived at their Conference USA com- frigid. Cold enough that the Wash- that saw Seattle lose nuts and bolts petition. With it comes an opportuni- ington Wizards' Gilbert Arenas had to create, alongside wunderkind Fe- ty for Head Coach Ben Braun to show to pack heat just to stay warm. Cold lix Hernandez, the best one-two, left- the strides or stumbles that the squad enough that Ti- right punch since has made in the coach's second year ger's remaining the Diamond- at the helm. mistresses will backs' peak nine Since Braun arrived at South have to wait until n years ago. Main last fall, the C-USA picture has spring to unveil Per usual, changed dramatically. The confer- their allegations. the Red Sox and ence, once known for greater girth in Cold enough that Yankees pawed the midsection under the domination Colt McCoy's at nearly every of the University of Memphis, has tears actually Casey Michel deal that was suddenly become top-heavy and now warmed his blub- EDITOR IN CHIEF mentioned, with appears to be moving up as one of the bering cheeks — Boston finally tougher conferences in the nation. as well as the hearts of 'Horn-haters landing the top free agent pitcher, After former Memphis Head from Pensacola to Portland. former Angel John Lackey. Sure, Coach John Calipari took the reins of Yeah, it was a cold winter. But Boston GM Theo Epstein overpaid the historic University of Kentucky if you were huddled around base- for a No. 3 pitcher, but he hollowed program, speculation abounded ball's annual Hot Stove, there was out an already struggling Angels' ro- that, for the first time in almost a de- little discontent to be found. tation at little cost to his bottomless cade, the top spot in the conference (For those who assumed that wallet. Plus, his signings of defen- could be won by a team other than our wintry woes precluded any sive wizards Adrian Beltre and Mike the Tigers (12-4, 2-0 C-USA). Though 'A talk of summer's favorite pastime, Cameron should make up ground Memphis retained some of the top a rejoinder: You're at Rice. Baseball on the defending champs. recruits in the country and are now reigns as a kindly lord, and it's only But those Yankees made some led by wunderkind coach Josh Past- a matter of time before Wayne Gra- key moves of their own, acquiring ner, lo and behold, that speculation ham's visage will replace Willy's in Javier Vazquez and Curtis Grand- has proven correct. the middle of the academic quad. So erson, with the latter filling their Three teams in the conference

let's talk ball.) one, AU-Star-less hole in the line- have better records than the Tigers r —•

It's been over two months since up. New York GM Brian Cashman with conference play just underway, » ARIEL SHNITZER/THRESHER the Yankees trampled the Phillies may have the most fitting name but despite only one loss to an un- with their cash-cows — yes, that's in all of sports, but he's no slouch ranked opponent, Memphis finds it- Sophomore Connor Frizzelle drives to the hoop in Rice's 77-65 »*/in a knock against C.C. Sabathia's gut when it comes to monitoring the self looking up at some very talented over Furman Nov. 24. Since then, Rice is 2-9 and 0-3 in C-USA play. — but the fans' interest in the game trade waters. Osee WINLESS, page 14 hasn't waned in the slightest. There In the senior circuit, Philadel- may have been an oh-so-slight phia GM Ruben Amaro should be downturn when, upon Jay-Z hop- chided for providing a declining ping aboard the Manhattan parade Placido Polanco three more years Green Wave washes away Owls float next to Alex Rodriguez and of security, but his acquisition of Andy Pettitte, people assumed Hova superstud pitcher Roy Halladay By Teddy Grodek Unfortunately, freshman forward was a steroid user, but that malaise assuaged any concerns about this THRESHER STAFF Lacey Neu went down for the season passed as soon as the first burners erstwhile NL powerhouse. Mean- with an ACL injury in the first game of of the Stove fired up. while, St. Louis kept outfielder Matt Fighting plane delays, injuries and the tournament. She was injured dur- The yearly carousel of baseball Holliday and his potent bat power- finals, the women's basketball team ing the last game for which she could roulette, with tepid general man- ing through Busch Stadium, with began playing up to its true potential receive a medical redshirt and will agers crumbling and inflated con- the offseason's only $100 million over the holiday break. The women still be able play her four complete tracts running the gauntlet, results signing. The Cardinals' Brad Penny started shooting well, were dominant years at Rice. in the most player movement of signing also brings them a high- on the boards and played lock-down A loss to Lamar University (12-4, the year. Curt Flood, the progenitor risk, high-upside pitcher — much defense when they needed big stops. 2-0 Southland Conference) stalled of free agency, undoubtedly revels like the Rangers with Rich Harden They ended last semester without the women's progression, but in his legacy reawakening every — who can pad his stats in a pitiful a win; now, as the second semester the next four games brought four off-season. This year made it clear NL Central. begins, they have six, bringing them straight victories, including a 65-57 that it was a seller's market, with So, those are the winners. But in sight of the .500 mark for the first victory against a major power op- a dearth of top-flight talent joining don't worry — many losers crashed time all season. ponent in George Washington Uni- the milquetoast economy in driving the party as well. They were the The Owls (6-9, 0-2 Conference versity (3-11, 0-2 Atlantic-10 Con- down the free agent dollars. Thus, typical bunch, running their typi- USA) received their first taste of vic- ference). The win against George as long as you're not betting on Mark cal game. The Kansas City Royals tory at their own tournament right Washington was the Owls' first road McGwire's Hall of Fame chances, parried like it was 2005, signed the before break, knocking off the Uni- win in a year and a half. the winter probably brought a smile washed-up Jason Kendall and the versity of Texas Pan-American 71-57 While the starters maintained to your face. broken-down Scott Podsednik, with sophomore forward Jackie Stan- their steady pace, it was the bench As such, let's take a prefatory while the Washington Nationals ARIEL SHNITZER ley carrying the load of the team in a that began to emerge as an asset to look at how the free agent class is threw $15 million at Jason Marquis, record-setting 36-point performance. provide depth to head coach Greg going to help some of the winners, the definition of a back-end starter, Sophomore D'Frantz Smart, The win on the opening day of the William's (Hanszen '70) arsenal, ac- and how some teams might as well and another $6 million at Pudge Ro- averaging 12.7 points in her Gene Hackerman Invitational ended cording to Stanley. the worst start to a season in the "I think in general everyone stay indoors when the winter fi- driguez, whose best years are stuck last six games, powers past a nally thaws. nearly a decade ago. And for the program's history, and the win, it ap- stepped it up," Stanley said. "Our UALR defender Nov. 24. In terms of improvement, no sake of my sanity, please don't get pears, resulted in a momentum shift bench really picked up. It's really team rose higher than the Seattle me started on the Houston Astros. for the downtrodden team. £3 see OWLS, page 14 Mariners. (Full disclosure: My Mari- If owner Drayton McLane has any ners trump my love for everything sense, GM Ed Wade should be the not named Zooey Deschanel.) Com- next panhandler squatting in Mon- ing off the feel-good season of the trose. If you're a 'Stros fan, you have decade — the campaign ended with my pity. tears streaming and teammates Other teams had peculiar off- OWLOOK carried off the field; never has an seasons — the Mets bidding against This Week in Sports 85-win season seemed so sappy — themselves for outfielder Jason Bay, Seattle GM Jack Zduriencik used the Los Angeles Dodgers handcuffed his acumen to patch up a team that, by their divorcing owners - but the Friday, Jan. 15 Sunday, Jan. 17 just two years ago, became the first weighed-down dollar made this Women's Basketball vs. Marshall Women's Basketball vs. East Carolina $ioo-million/ioo-loss squad in the offseason an abnormally quiet one. 7 p.m. — Tudor Field house 2 p.m. — Tudor Fieldhouse history of the game. The below- As the calendar turns, the Hot Stove market signing of third baseman has all but burned out, leaving us, Women's Track & Field at Leonard Hilton Memorial Wednesday, Jan. 20 Chone Figgins and four-year ex- once more, with the frostbitten chill All Day — University of Houston tension of center fielder Franklin of a winter without baseball. Men's Basketball vs. SMU 7 p.m. — Tudor Fieldhouse Gutierrez — by some calculations, Five weeks till pitchers and Saturday, Jan. 16 Gutierrez signed for only 30 percent catchers report. Start counting Men's Track & Field at Leonard Hilton Memorial Women's Tennis vs. TAMU-CC of his market worth — solidified the the days. All Day —University of Houston 2 p.m. — Jake Hess Tennis Stadium league's best defense, and Milton Bradley brought much-needed pop Casey Michel is a Brown College se- Men's Basketball vs. Memphis to a peevish lineup. nior and Thresher editor in chief. 7 p.m. — Tudor Fieldhouse 12 SPORTS THE RICE THRESHER FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 RICE TRACK & FIELD 2010 Owls hope Colwick's championship effort in 2009 translates into team success in 2010, as majority of team returns

By Jonathan Myers for him, more in the future than this workouts, as these dual-sport ath- THRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF year because he's got a lot to learn letes will return to Rice Stadium nine new events, but he's looking for spring football practice shortly Jason Colwick hasn't let up. The good so far." after the end of the indoor season, defending national champion in pole Spinks couldn't perform up to par making their presence on the track vault, the senior, who also ranks fifth last year due to nagging injuries, but the scarcer during the outdoor season. in the world in his sport, has kept a slack for the newcomers was picked up Warren is looking forward to healthy training regimen that should by Collin Shurbet and Clayton Chaney. have the players' undivided atten- make him the odds-on favorite to grab Both sophomores, then in their first tion and talent during the first two another crown. years, made the largest impact among months of the semester. But Colwick can only do so much newcomers in 2009, and Warren will "Since [Moore] scored in the Texas when trying to attain his final, furtive employ an interesting strategy by red- 4A state meet in the 100, 200 and 400 goal: a conference championship. For- shirting Chaney for the indoor season. meter events, we're hoping he can tunately, according to Head Coach Jon This decision will allow him to have a contribute, most likely in the relays Warren (Jones '88), Colwick is still do- year to improve through practice, re- and quarter mile," Warren said. "Sam ing everything he can to improve on his turning next year to compete against was obviously a great find for us last team's third-place finish in 2009. less-experienced athletes, thus increas- year in the 60 meters, long jump and "Yes, we think he'll contend [for the ing his chances at securing a trip to the high jump." title]," Warren said. "Nothing's ever for national meet. The throwers will also return from sure, and in that event there's even more "We're tentatively planning on sit- strong performances last year, with ju- variables than any other event. So far in ting Clayton out all year," Warren said. nior Will Meyers hoping to repeat his practice, he's vaulting as good as or bet- "We think it's going to be difficult, with fifth-place finish in the shot put from ter than he's ever vaulted, so there's an seeing who's in the outdoor decathlon the 2009 C-USA Indoor meet, and junior expectation that if he's on, he'll have a as well, to score the amount needed to Clay Baker coming off a fourth-place good shot to win it." get to elite status. I think he could be in finish in the shot put and sixth place Colwick has kept pushing himself the hunt to be a national qualifier, but in the weight throw. Sophomore Alex to newer heights, competing with we think he's a year away from being Zinchenko will also look to improve - some of the world's best pole vault- able to score those big points. [Senior] upon his throws this year after adjust- IP- ers over the summer at Germany's Phillip [Adam] can do it now, but we ing to his first year competing in track Rottacher Springer-Meeting. Colwick think that Clayton could be ultimately and field in the United States. took first place with a vault of 5.72 me- very, very good." ters, which broke the meet record and Competing for the crown tied his personal best. The new batch As far as Rice's chances to lay claim ARIEL shnitzer/thresher "For me, it was great," Colwick said. Replacing last year's crop of pro- to the conference crown, they will most "It was my first time competing on the ductive newcomers will be a host of likely hinge on the team's chances to international level, and for my own ex- freshmen, as well as a sophomore, improve relative to the University of Sophomore Michael Izuchukwu regains his balance after perience, it was my first time overseas. Andrew Briggs, serving as a rookie on Houston, last year's champions. completing the triple jump at the 2009 Vict or Lopez Bayou Clas- I was able to strengthen my experience the team. Warren is optimistic about Warren offered an early prediction sic last March. Izuchukwu will try to help Rice improve upon its level, since with every meet I go to, I step what he has seen from them during of what the Owls will need to do to over- back afterwards to self-regulate and re- the winter workouts. come the Cougars. third place finish in last year's C-USA Championships. analyze how I performed, and what as- "Freshman Tyler Wiest, as a high O see MEN'S, page 14 pects I did well, as well as things that I jumper, looks very, very good; he could improve." could make an impact right away," Warren said. "Freshman Ikechi Nna- A healthy bunch mani has a shot to do well in the tri- TUTOR NEEDED IN HIGH SCHOOL/COLLEGE PHYSICS So it appears as if Colwick is well ple and high jumps. Briggs has been on his way to at least competing for a in school for a couple years and just second consecutive title. He has the ex- came out for the team and looks real- perience, and more importantly, he has ly good, [and] freshman Alex Su was his health, which is not something nec- state champ in pole vault and hurdles essarily shared by the rest of the Owls, in Arizona, and with a little work in Interested in a person to do Tutoring of a young man in the area of who had a slew of injuries that hobbled the hurdles he could contribute." them throughout the season, including In the short-distance events, that of sophomore Jack Spinks, who the Owls will again rely on ath- missed a chance to exhibit his talent in letes that call Rice Track & Soccer High School/College Physics the high jump last year. Warren com- Stadium their second home, with mented on the coaching staff's project football players such as senior John for Spinks' repertoire. Welch, sophomore Sam McGuffie "With Jack, we've added events and freshman Donte Moore poised — he's moving up to the decathlon," to headline the sprinting events. In Warren said. "He'll get an indoor sea- these events, it's difficult to estab- son back. We have high expectations lish consistency during the team's Time: Once a week fori hour to 11/2

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT CENTER Interested person should send the following information to the Do you have an idea for a one-time service project? below email address: Does your organization need funding for an existing service program?

Then apply for the: COMMUNITY SERVICE GRANT - A letter giving general information on ones self

The Community Service Grant provides funding for - List of areas of studies with schools attended registered student organizations to support service through one-time projects, on-going programs, and annual operating budgets for student service organizations. - Age

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COMMUNI TY SERVICE GRANT, AND TO APPLY, VISIT THE COMMUNITY - Teaching/tutoring experience (if any) INVOLVEMENT CENTER'S WEB SITE AT HTTP://CIC.RICE.EDU. - Present occupation or profession Spring 2010 Application Deadline: 5:00PM TUESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2010

DISCOVER VOlUNTlfR. LEAD. I HE CENTER FOR CIVIC. ENGAGEMENT PRICE Send all information to: jelizaveriagmail.com

+ FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 THE RICE THRESHER SPORTS 13 RICE CK & FIELD 2010 Women's squad brings in abundance of upperclassmen, large group of freshmen to extend conference title streak

By Natalie Clericuzio title, thankfully, with a large number our team and we're looking to do great 7inHRESHER EDITORIAL STAFF of scorers from last season return- things," Bevan said. "We have com- ing. Junior pole vaulter Ari Ince, who petitors in all event groups and we are With six conference champion- won the Conference USA Indoor Pole better in the sprints, 400, throws, pole ships in three seasons, sweeping Vaulting Championship last year, will vault and in jumps.... We feel like we both indoor and outdoor competi- return, as well as sophomore vaulter can have a better overall team." tion, success has become an expecta- Cleona Oliver, who closely followed Also aiding this year's squad is tion, not just a goal, for the women's Ince in second last season. Sopho- the installation of the new track in track and field team. Last season, more Brittany Brown, senior Katie the team's home stadium. Bevan be- then-senior Lennie Waite helped Dollinger and Tina Robinson all re- lieves this facility will help improve lead the team to their success, quali- turn as throwers for the Owls as well. the team's preparation. fying for nationals in two events and On the track, senior Sarah Lyons "It's nice to have the new track to earning an All-American status in and junior Shakera Reece look to lead train on now," Bevan said. "It's nice the 3,000 meter steeplechase. the sprinting corps alongside senior to go out every day and have a facility With the graduation of Waite Brittany Washington. Junior triple- that you're proud of." (Brown '08) and of the rest of the de- jumper Sarah Agara will do the same in Senior Nicole Mericle says the parting class, there are plenty of holes jumps with senior Shannon Moran and track reflects the team's success in to fill and many opportunities for juniors Alex Gibbs and Tiffany Gill. recent years. freshmen and underclassmen to con- In distance events, senior Nicole "We just started to run on it, but tribute to the team's success in 2010. Mericle and juniors Allison Pye and it's a huge improvement from the Becky Wade — who finished second, track we had — there were inclines Faces worth watching third and fourth, respectively, in the and holes in the track before," Meri- Luckily, six freshmen in short dis- 3,000 meters behind Waite at the cle said. "I think it's symbolic of the tance and field events alone enter the Indoor Championships last season start of this new tradition of Rice team this season. Sojourner Brown — return. Sophomore Michaela Reyn- track. It shows how we've earned it, and Lillian Nwora will bring more olds and senior Britany Williams will since we've had so many conference depth to the 400-meter run for the also contribute to the team's run for titles in the past few years." Owls, while Candace Springer will another championship. run sprints and possibly compete in Meeting the competition the 4x400 meter relay, and Sheree On track for another The team will begin its search for Robinson, the younger sister of two- championsip their next championship today at the OAVE ROSALES/THRESHER time All-American discus thrower This large freshman class, along- Leonard Hilton Memorial at the Uni- Crystal Robinson and junior thrower side the number of returning team versity of Houston's Yeoman Field- Sophomore Marie Thompson competes during last season's Victor Tina Robinson, will participate in the members, should put the team in house. Twelve schools will be com- Lopez Classic. Thompson and her Owls enter the 2010 season with six weight throw and shot put. good stead to repeat their champi- peting, most notably the University of cumulative titles over the last three years to defend. In addition, several freshmen who onships, according to Heaa Coach Texas, ranked preseason No. 15 by the ran cross country will be joining the Jim Bevan. United States Track and Field-Cross team in distance events. "We have a large returning class Country Coaches Association. Other well as University of Texas-San An- seeing where the freshmen are at These freshmen will not be the among scorers, including new lead- competitors to watch for include Tu- tonio and Louisiana Tech University, because this is the first meet for uri" only ones to carry the team to another ership, and we return the nucleus of lane University and host Houston, as defending Western Athletic Confer- Bevan said. "You establish a starting ence champions. point and we'll find it and then start As the team has only a week of prac- growing from there." tice under its belt, Bevan sees the meet The Owls will need to be sharp as an opportunity against a consid- • AT to see where the erably improved Owls stand going line-up of confer- into the season. ence competition THF LANGUAGE FLAGSHIP "My goal for Head online to from last season. Creating Global Professionals the first meet is ricethresher.org Houston, which to get started, finished second have us get our to check out the behind Rice at feet wet, compete Women's Track last year's indoor hard and find out championships, where we are," 2010 is a historically Bevan said. "It Video Preview strong program will be a full- and suffered no squad meet. We significant losses will have as many from last year's people as possible competing." squad. The second-place finisher be- Bevan also hopes to find out where hind Rice in last year's outdoor cham- his team stands to begin the season. pionship, the University of South "I'm really looking forward to B see WOMEN'S, page 14 JOHN E. PARISH FELLOWSHIP 20092 1 . I . for Summer Travel

Wiess College announces competition for the 2010 John E. Parish B.A. in Certificate in Pre-College Korean for Korean for Summer Fellowship. The winner of a Parish Fellowship will receive support of Professionals Professionals Program mm "St; approximately 2 months travel during the Summer of 2010. The purpose of the fellowship is to enhance the undergraduate education You can be a Korea specialist in YOUR major. of the Fellow by broadening the range of experience via indiv idual The next generation of global professionals. Funded by the National Security Education Program, The Language Flagship leads the nation in travel. All full-time returnins undergraduates at Rice are eligible to designing, supporting, and implementing a new paradigm for advanced language education. Through an innovative partnership among the federal government, education, and business, apply. For further information, call the Wiess College Coordinator. The Language Flagship seeks to graduate students who will take their place among the next generation of global professionals, commanding professional-level proficiency in Korean or Nancy Letness at 713-348-5743. or see the web page at one of the other languages critical to U.S. competitiveness and security. Application Deadline: February 1 www.ruf.rice.edu -parish.

KOREAN LANGUAGE FLAGSHIP CENTER University of Hawai i at Manoa Phone: 808-956-8469 The deadline for application is Friday. February 12,2010, at 5:00 1859 East-West Road, Suite 110 Fax: 80&-956-6026 Honolulu HI 96822 E-mail: [email protected] PM. http://koreanflagship.manoa.hawaii.edu CUT 14 SPORTS THE RICE THRESHER FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 OMEN'S FROM PAGE 11 FROM PAGE 12 "We'll know more once some utilizing members of its cross country good to know that we have depth to After two games off the bench, and lost baggage, the Owls came out meets are run, but 1 think Houston team. Warren is optimistic this subset our roster and they're playing well." Smart finally returned to the starting flat against the Green Wave (12-3,1-1 is the team to beat," Warren said. of the team will continue to provide a The bench had also recently lineup against Northwestern State C-USA), finding themselves down 15 "They're pretty consistent, and good solid effort. added a new contributor to help out. (9-6), and promptly scored a season- in the first half. It proved to be too in a lot of areas. For them not to win " [With senior] Justin Maxwell and Sophomore point guard D'Frantz high 16 points in the victory, followed much for the Owls to overcome, as the meet, our jumpers and vaulters [junior] Michael Trejo in the 5,000 Smart, who had started 26 games by 24 points the following night. they fell by a final score of 82-60, to need to come through. We've been the meters, hopefully we can break up her freshman year, was temporarily Conference play began at the end remain winless in conference play. best team as far as scoring in the most Tulsa in the 3,000 meters, and a com- removed from the lineup over break of the break, and with it brought an But as the team knows, being events — we just need to raise that a bination of [senior] Simon Bucknell after a disappointing opening to the end to the Owls' momentum. The winless does not preclude a run couple of places across the board." and [senior] Scott Zivick could work season. The captain, whom Williams team traveled to the University of back to .500, as evidenced by its The University of Texas-El Paso, in the mile," Warren said. hoped would be a major contributor Texas at El Paso Jan. 9 to open the winter break success. The Owls which Warren describes as "the big The distance races may be one of in both points and minutes this year, Conference USA slate, but Rice could will hope to rekindle some of that question mark," could also pose a the Owls' best chances at securing had fallen short of her own goals. not find the mark on its shooting in fire this weekend, hosting Mar- threat with its international contin- the title that has eluded them since "[Smart] responded really well [to the first half, finishing at 25 percent. shall University, which is looking gent of Kenyan, Nigerian and Swed- they moved into Conference USA the demotion]," Williams said. "She While the Owls picked it up in the to snap Rice's four game home win- ish athletes. in 2005. But if the team's health is started working really hard in prac- second half, the defense faltered, al- ning streak. After Marshall (10-5, 2-1 C-USA), which averages 4.2 blocks The Miners seem to always do stable, then Colwick may no longer tice and changed her game. She got lowing UTEP (10-6, 1-1 C-USA) to put per game, the Owls host league-lead- well in the distance races, but Rice be the sole champion at Rice at sea- more aggressive, which is what we up 46 points. Rice ended up falling er East Carolina University (14-2, 3-0 could challenge their hegemony by son's end. wanted her to do. It was like she had by a final score of 74-64- a rebirth; it's important because our After a difficult trip to Tulane Uni- C-USA), which is averaging a league- • WOMEN'S team plays off of her." versity involving both a long layover leading 74.6 points a game. FROM PAGE 13 O WINLESS Florida, also boast an impressive and side. We used to sweep distance FROM PAGE 11 resilient squad. The University of Texas- events in track and now it's going to El Paso, Southern Methodist University be a little more difficult." opponents, something none of the "We lost our confidence and got Kazemi and junior Trey Stanton. Ka- and East Carolina University also will Overall, Bevan's expectations for speculators could have seen coming. passive instead of staying aggressive," zemi led the team with 11 points and aim to wrest the C-USA crown from the season remain the same: high. The University of Alabama at freshman point guard Tamir Jackson eight rebounds, while Stanton scored Rice's head. "We have two conference titles Birmingham (14-2, 2-0 C-USA), the said. "When we get passive and we nine with only four rebounds. Mericle said the past conference to defend, one indoors and one University of Tulsa (13-3, 3-0 C-USA) don't try to attack it hurts on offense." While Stanton has had troubles, championships by Rice help motivate outdoors," he said. "Both of them and Marshall University (14-2, 3-0 C- Jackson is leading the Owls with Kazemi continues to gain more respect the team to continue to defeat improved we've won in '07, '08 and '09 so we USA) stand atop of the C-USA charts. 2.9 assists per game, but sophomore around the league, leading the team C-USA foes. have a string. ... We want to defend Altogether the newly emergent guard Connor Frizzelle is struggling to in rebounds and blocks. He is also "It's a motivation to win because our titles and we want to look for- threats throughout the league spell regain his old self. second on the team behind Jackson in the whole conference is more com- ward to the most success possible out one message: "The challenge is "Connor has a good basketball points scored. petitive," Mericle said. "A couple at the conference level and at the going to get harder and not easier," IQ," Braun said. "If he can get some "Both Kazemi and Jackson have years ago it was more clear that we national level. We had two Ail- Braun said. of our post guys open by creating been bright spots in terms of produc- were going to dominate, but now Americans last year at the national That challenge has already space, then teams are going to have tion," Braun said. "They have been there's been teams like SMU and level, so we'll strive to be the best proved to be trying for the Owls to make a decision. Do they give up putting up points and rebounds, and UTEP who have stepped up even we can be at the conference and na- (6-10, 0-3 C-USA) who are winless inside lay-ups or do they go out to they really compete. That is a positive more, especially on the distance tional level." in conference and have yet to find challenge Connor?" especially as freshmen." a victory on the road. The team's top concern is getting The freshmen will need to keep Cross-town rival the University of things established on the inside on up the efforts tomorrow, as the Tigers, Houston came to Tudor Fieldhouse both sides of the floor. UCF also out- now mortal but still a force, enter Tu- on Jan. 6 to begin conference play and scored Rice in the paint by a margin of dor Fieldhouse at 7 p.m. A win is pos- posted an astounding 42 points in the 34 to 14, an instance where the num- sible, and consistency will be the key. paint, compared to Rice's 22. While the bers do not lie. On Wednesday at Tu- "It is about the team that is most FHNDREN game stayed close for the first half due lane, the battle in the paint went in the consistent," senior guard Cliff Ghoram to some inspired spurts of production, favor of the Owls, but with their tallest said. "We have to be determined and • / : \ • L i b r a r y the Coogs repeatedly demoralized the starter standing at 6'7". Tulane lim- consistent. We have to be focused on home team with easy buckets under- ited the offensive production of Rice's what we do. It has to do with heart. I RICH UNIVFRSITY neath the basket. starting forwards, freshman Arsalan think heart is a big deal."

Fondren Library Research Awards for Undergraduate Students and Graduate Students Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellows Program The Fondren Library announces the second annual research awards •V% t> Btrvmm KHyt for students who demonstrate extraordinary skill and creativity in the application of library and information resources to original research and scholarship.

The undergraduate winner will be awarded $1,000, and the graduate winner will be awarded $1,000. An honorable mention RICE MMUF ALUMNI WHO HAVE COMPLETED THE PH.D. award of $500 will be awarded in each category. Jennifer (Alvarez) Dickson. '95. Ph D from University of New Mexico in English For detailed information, please see Kadeshia Matthews. '96, Ph.I) from John Hopkins in History Vanessa Eienwa. '97. Ph.D from Princeton University in Ecology & Evolutionary* library.rice.edu/research-awards Fay Yarbrough. '97. Ph.D. from Emory University in History Armanda Lewis. '98. Ph.D. from Columbia University in Hispanic Studies Michelle Nasser. '99. Ph.D. from Tulane University in Hispanic Studies Deadline for application: January 31, 2010 Evelyn Patterson. '02. Ph.D. from University of Pennsylvania in Demography Reynaldo Romero. "02. Ph D. from Georgetown University in Spanish Linguistics. 2009 Lindsay Smith. '02. Received Ph.D. from Harvard University 111 Anthropology . 2008** Jessica /.uniga. '02. Ph.D. from Cornell 1 'Diversity in Mathematics, 2008 Iri McMillan. '03, Ph.D. from Vale University in African American Siudies FRIENDS OF Tonia Venters. '04. Ph D. from University of Chicago in Astrophysics FONDREN LIBRARY * First Rice MMUF- to receive a Ph.D. ** Rice Associate MMUI-

ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT NGAGEMENTl COM MUNI FY INVOLVEMENT CENTER GRADUATE STUDY LEADING TO THE PH.D.?

I he Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellows Program (MMUFP) at Rice University has three goals. First. 11 seeks to increase the number of Campus Blood Drives minority students, and others with a demonstrated commitment to eradicating racial disparities, who will pursue I'hDs in core fields in the arts and sciences. In doing so. the program aims to reduce over time the serious under-representation on the faculties ol individuals from Sponsored by fiice Student Volunteer Program (M S Wj certain minority groups, as well as to address the attendant educational consequences of these disparities. Second, it seeks to nurture these students to be the researchers, teachers, and mentors of the highly diverse college student bodies of the future. Third, it seeks to encourage study abroad experiences as part of their research agenda. The fields that the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation has targeted for support are: January 21-22, 2010 Anthropology, Art History, Classics, Computer Science, Demography, Karth Sciences, Ecology, hnglish. Fthnomusicology, Foreign 10:00am-4:00pm Languages, History, Literature, Mathematics. Musieology, Philosophy. Physics, Politieal Theory, Religion and Sociology Applicants should normally be completing their sophomore year as a student at Rice University. Selection will be based on a number of RJVIC Farns^joorth Pavilion attributes including but not limited to academic standing and potential, life experiences and interests, commitment to building bridges in multicultural settings, and interest in pursuing graduate education. Students who participate in the program receive a yearly stipend of S3,(KM) work closely with a faculty mentor for two years, and are also eligible for participation in summer fellowship programs at the end of Sign up to donate at: their sophomore or junior years. Finalists will be interviewed. Announcements will be made in March.

http://cic. rice, edu For more information and to download the application go to: http://diversity.rice .edu/mellon_mays.aspx Gulf Coast Regional For more Blood Center information, please call Application deadline is February 26.2009 $ 713-348-4970. Commit for Life. CONTACT: Dr. Roland B.Smith,,|r.or (iloria Bean S3 RIO Office of the Associate Provost, Rice University ,713-348-5688 FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 THE RICE THRESHER CALENDAR 15

WEDNESDAY 20 HOW TO SUBMIT CALENDAR ITEMS

The deadline for submission is 3 p.m. the Monday prior to publication. the Calendar The kind of music that soothes Submissions are printed on a space-available basis. JAN. 15-21, 2010 Bob Seger's soul Submission methods follow ifi 24/7 at twitterxofn/threshercal Sid Richardson College's spring Fax: 713.348.5238 musical is Rock 'N' Roll, by Tom Email: thresher-calendar@rice. edu Stoppard, and features music by Campus Mail: Calendar Editor cal operatives based in Kalamazoo The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Thresher, MS-524 FRIDAY who spent four years sneaking into Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix and more. his concerts in disguise. Seriously. You should try out! Auditions are in I'm not making this up. Anyways, the Sid Commons at 8:30 p.m., but all the cool kids will be at Jones Hall Pucker up if you arrive late you should head at 8 p.m. with $11 student tickets. downstairs to the Big Room. No LISTS OFTHINGS! Central Market, Houston's coolest My friends and I are in something preparation is necessary. (and snootiest) grocery store, is like the fourth row from the front. Say hello to us at intermission! The Calendar editor's list of favorite Houston restaurants, or at least having a Citrus Fest all this week- his favorites this week (in no particular order): end. Stop by the Westheimer lo- 1. Istanbul Grill cation today, Saturday or Sunday Shoutout to Jonathan Ludwig's THURSDAY 21 2. Hobbit Cafe for an acidic bonanza of freshly Russian literature class! 3. Molina's Cantina squeezed fruit juices, recipes and 4. Smashburger (a chain, I know, but irresistible) free samples of exotic citrus fruits. On this day in 1547, Ivan the Ter- All they want is your blood 5. Canyon Cafe And if nothing else, you can stock rible was crowned Tsar of Muscovy, up on limes for your margaritas! beginning a reign of conquest, mili- The "Commit for Life" blood drive tary might and (naturally) terror. Five awesome things you should read in the Rice Standard that were is in the Famsworth Pavilion from published online during the winter vacation: On this day in 1919 10 a.m.—4 p.m. Register in advance 1. "On Reclining Chairs," by David Ouyang at http://cic.rice.edu/blooddrives/, 2. "Tips on Visiting Friends from Home," by Meg Scarborough Next time you say "slower than or just show up the day of, al- 3. "Art Lessons from Buchenwald," by Garrett Schumann molasses," consider this: molas- though people with appointments 4. "To Facebook or Not to Facebook," by Courtney Ng ses could kill you. It's EVIL. And MONDAY 18 will have shorter waiting times. 5. "Some New Year's Resolutions for Rice," by, well, me it did kill on this day in 1919, in Boston, when a molasses storage Those crazy Communist cello Five arguments against 3-D movies: tank exploded, causing a 15 foot Martin Luther King Jr. Day players are at it again! 1.1 already wear glasses. tall tidal wave of tasty goo to ex- Sleep in. Don't go to class. Don't 2. The color palette available to traditional movies is so much richer plode through the city streets. 21 be racist. Of course, today's not Martel College junior Sophie (which is why, for example, Up is so much better on DVD). people died in the catastrophe; actually King's birthday (that was Benn's cello recital is entitled "In 3. Do we really need hundreds of movies where evil things jump out the molasses even swept a train Friday), but since government Soviet Russia, Cello Recital Plays of the screen towards us? off its tracks. People say that on employees would rather take You!" and features music by two 4. Some people's brains adjust to the 3-D fakery midway through the hot summer days you can still Mondays off, here we are. It's Cary composers who spent much of movie and start seeing in 2-D again. This happened to my roommate smell molasses, although maybe Grant's birthday today, if that's any their careers trapped behind the when he saw Avatar, by the way. they're full of crap. Crazy, though, consolation. Iron Curtain, Sergey Prokofiev 5. Ticket prices are bad enough. Barf! right? Events like this are why 1 and Witold Lutoslawski. The peo- love being a history major. ple's recital begins at 5:30 p.m. in On this day in 1778 Because I really desperately miss baseball, five teams which will be the Duncan Recital Hall. significantly better this year: Captain James Cook committed 1. Arizona Diamondbacks one of the great marketing errors Baseball in the Buff 2. Washington Nationals SATURDAY l6 in world history when he named 3. Seattle Mariners his new discovery the "Sandwich Houston's first baseball team was 4. Texas Rangers Islands." Later, somebody real- the Houston Buffs. You can leam 5. Chicago White Sox , about the Buffs and the rest of our You should go to the Houston ized that the name "Sandwich" city's awesome baseball tradition Symphony concert tonight was not exactly good for tourism, And five teams which will be significantly worse this year: because instead of conjuring up by attending a talk with sports his- 1. New York Mets They're featuring Gershwin's awe- images of tropical breezes, water- torian Michael Acosta, archivist for 2. Houston Astros some Rhapsody in Blue and Ravel's falls and pristine beaches, it just the Houston Astros, at noon. The 3. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim amazing piano concerto, and the made everybody want to have a talk is at the Heritage Society Tea 4. Cleveland Indians soloist is Kirill Gerstein, who just tuna melt. So they very smartly Room, 1100 Bagby St. Entrance 5. Detroit Tigers won a super-secret $300,000 prize reverted to the archipelago's na- costs $5 and guests may bring their from a cabal of unidentified musi- tive name, "Hawaii." own lunches or buy one for $10.

THRESHER CROSSWORD: THE 2009 ADULTERERS' HALL OF FAME

23. " That" (3 Doors DOWN Down song) 1. Leave this on and your pic- 24. A word that wouldn't tures will all come out black Rice's Institute of describe the marriages of 2. Houston literary critic Shivani Biosciences and this puzzle's adulterers 3. Nicely 26. Pot 4. Britney Spears did this to her Bioengineering's 28. When you can't get 2401 first marriage Internship Fair 29. Suffix with arche- 5. In lighting, code word for dim 30. The end of a symphony 6. Shrek's species 1 31. Parts of Serena's game 7. Fake grass When: Wednesday, 32. One of 8. Dr. John Zammito's favorite Jan. 27, 2010 35-down's sex scandal is philosopher from that the National Enquirer 9. Perverse way of saying raise up has become a trustworthy 10. Manor on Animal Planet 11:30 AM till 1:00 PM news source 11. Shakespearean fanfares 35- At 12. The New York Post says Where: Grand Hall of 38. Honorific for Thatcher, he has slept with 12,775 Astor or Gaga women Rice Memorial Center 39- Takes a break 15. Fancy past tense for the Rice University 43- It's good with chips religiously fortunate 44. Highs and 17. What 12-down did to 12,775 Pizza, Drinks and Cookies 45- Let the buyer women before he proposi- will be served 46. Conceal a birthday present tioned them? 48. Agency that maintains 19. Neck or bow I-610 and US 59 (abbr.) 23. Actor Bridges from "The 49' An urban legend says Agency" Hitler had only one 25. The goal of an adulterer? 50. Tough Tinactin 26. Swedish models aren't 44. City in southern Sweden 51. Obscure species of ever- good enough for this adul- 45 . and arrow green terer 47. Texas' Woods Not-quite-so-sexy name 48. Adulterers' wives might Welcome to the inaugural ACROSS 54- 27. Christian Science founder for a nematode be down in these Rice Thresher crossword 1. Delay time in a MMORPG Mary Baker Rope of death puzzle! We're just trying this 4. Famous cookie maker 56. 30. That gets in my ! 51. Pleasure-seeking gent This year's Lifetime Adul- out, so if you have any com- 8. Makes a noise you can't 57- 31. It's thicker than a soup 52. Take up against a tery Achievement Award plaints, comments or sug- make if you pinch your 33. "Ker- !" sea of troubles and, by winner is a politician who gestions for future puzzles, nose 34. Some random French fabric opposing, end them had an affair 40 years ago write to the Calendar editor at 12. Nota 35. The National Enquirer 53. Minnesota bird and got away with it [email protected]. 13. Nixed plan revealed his adultery 55. The godfather of Ameri- This crossword puzzle was 14. Fencing weapon 58. Danby's advice to Yos- 36. Ventilate an engine can adultery (initials) designed by Brian Reinhart, 15. It's next to Togo sarian 37. Kitchen utensil (and can I with some assistance from 16. Jilted wife of26-down 59. Ex-Senator Coleman just say this is a really fun a handy computer program 18. Tiredness 60. Kill, or cause to laugh word to say out loud?) If you are a puzzlemaker and with a built-in dictionary fond 20. "Dear Mary, I 61. An unpleasant pool type 40. He hiked the Appalachian would like to see your work of excessively fancy words. for you tragically." 62. What a famous children's Trail all the way to Argentina appear in this space, e-mail "Theme" clues are italicized. {Catch-22) TV song never does 41. Something so obvious you [email protected]. The solution will be pub- 21. And so on (abbr.) shouldn't even be saying it All brainspraining puzzle lished next week. 22. Feel sick 42. Little hairs (med.) types are welcome. ?r

16 BACKPAGE THE RICE THRESHER FRIDAY, JANUARY 15,2010 rice in CAUGHT IN A ROMANCE a collegiate tragedy of epic proportions (as told by the backpage) review Rice and BCM had been neighbors for many years before they were both gripped by the burning sensation of love. Baylor was always inviting Rice over week of to her house for sleep-overs. Rice even built a giant tree fort in the Medical Center so that the two schools could talk about neighborly things, like curing jan. 10 cancer and turning Houston into an academic powerhouse. But the relation- ship was purely platonic—they dared not let their tongues weave the forbid- den language of romance. student association Then, one day, a giant recession knocked BCM to her knees. Rice just hap- SA President Patrick McAnAnEy pened to be the closest person around, so he quickly rushed to her aid. Rice offered to pick BCM up off the ground with his strong and powerful arms. The two then locked in a passionate stare. Rice had never noticed the supple cur- vature of BCM's medical research grants. And just look at the academic pres- tige on her! BCM eyes moved from Rice's awesome endowment up to his big, beefy brain.

Rice Univei^sity is listed as "in an open relationship'' with BCM

ship with the mystic, alien race. a: j You, Cnstina Tortai :o, Patrick McAnaney and 1,548 others like this. Of course, what Patrick didn't know was that it was all part of a ^ Robin F-orm.in dude gj! bigger scheme to obtain precious January 7 at 2:01am carbon nanotubes located under The two were instantly smitten. What started as innocent flirting and long, late- Rice University lol thx the Na'vi Tree of Life. night phone calls soon developed into a full-blown Facebook-official relation- tenuis} .:•« sin ship. Sure, it was "open" at first—neither institution was very good at commit- new colleges? in Moshe Varui :-/ ment. But it was also more commitment than either school had shown anyone my beer oike? c^st S:QOam in a long, long time (even to their students).

Duncan and McMurtry will One night Rice became so excited (and drunk) that he texted everyone in his compete in an exhibition race "myFaves" and professed his feelings for BCM. "DUDE I <3 BCM. She com- sandwiched between this year's pletes me. A merger could produce many academic 81 research benefits 4 both Alumni and Women's races. of our institutions & the ppl we serve... in my pants : -D" The Backpage posits that any exhibition during Beer Bike As time went on, though, each institution's true nature began to put a strain should probably involve mud on the relationship. BCM loved to spend money on things like dresses and PET wrestling, especially if there are scanners and shoes; Rice had recently dipped into its strained coffers to buy Q freshmen involved. } new houses and billboards and athletic directors. Being one of the Princeton closm, Review's "10 Hottest Couples 2 Watch" was a big responsibility, and neither over wl Rice nor BCM knew how to handle the pressure. saves I At the same time all of Rice's friends began pulling the "bros b4 hos" card. ... but like, tens of thousands. Moshe Vardi, the coolest cat in the computational engineering department, You could achieve the same thing was all like "dude you deserve better than that," to which Rice responded "U by HIKING UNDERGRADUATE DONT KNOW ME!!" Rice started de-friending anyone who disagreed with him TUITION BY $20. Or printing blue on Facebook and would have really emo statuses like "noi understands me :-(" books on hemp paper. Or selling all those unused HiNi vaccines. Finally, BCM became tired of Rice's boring and sad demeanor. She started shop- That'd be much much much ping around for a new sugar daddy. This all culminated last Thursday when Rice easier than bussing international received the infamous break-up text. students and athletes around Houston all winter. misctass IfToxo I ain't savin' sfie's a gofi5 5tgger... "Rice is a fun place! Half OUR LOVE 15 of all my three-ways SPECIAL!!! occurred here "So, one?" / "So, one." Overheard in Valhalla. Mean- while, the Backpage's own outstanding three-way offer has yet to be fulfilled.

NEW YEAR, NEW MISCLASS PLEASE! [email protected] The rest, as they say, is history. OR TEXT TO 850.319.9823 OR DM TO THRESHERBKPG The Backpage is satire and is written, awesomely, by Kyle Barnhart and Cristina Tortarolo. Shout-outs to Evan and Dan, who will always be bangable in our hearts. CLASSIFIEDS @ rice.edu AFTER-SCHOOL CHILD CARE WANT help for their two children, 11 and 13. RARE FIND! 900 sq ft 1 bdrm / 1 bath swimming pool, nice grounds in well HELP WANTED ED. Bellaire family needs babysitter Educational major or experience is aptmnt in residential duplex Willow- maintained complex. To schedule a for two elementary school children preferred. Car required. Tel: Claire, bend subdiv, 4 mi from Med Ctr. w/ viewing, contact Tom Hoke 713- 805- Come teach for testmasters! No ex- from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. every school 432 230 2485 or email: kklavers@ quick access to 610 Loop. Bright living 5097- perience necessary as all training day. tPlease call 713-890-5130. hartenergy.com room, dining room/den. Hardwoods, is provided. Full and part time posi- updated fix. & furn., fresh paint; cen- New highrise condominium 2 bed- tions available. Dynamic and Ener- Elementary school tutor in general @ HOUSING tral heat, ceiling fans, A/C. Spacious room 2 full bath panoramic downtown getic teachers wanted. Pay rate start subjects needed.t 5 minutes from kitchen w/ pantries; large closets, views. 1 mile from Texas Medical Cen at $i8-$3o/hour. Call 281-276-7743 or Rice.t $3o/hr.t Mondays at 4:30, KIRBY DISTRICT 1-1 quiet condo; pri- washer-dryer in garage utility room. ter. Lease 2300$ or for sale. Great ame- email [email protected]. Tuesdays at 5:30.+ Please call 713-214- vate patio with 3 glass doors (good One block to elementary school, city nities 24hr doorman. 832-588-7833. 1685 or email Mark_BJason@yahoo. light), high efficiency a/c fridge, dish- park 81 comm. pool. $95o/mo. 713-728- Tutoring position available. Looking com. washer. Stained concrete floors, black 0456. BOTHER for dependable, caring academic tu- granite countertops, pet welcome. tors to work with students grades 1-12 Need a part-time after school driver $650 per month plus electric.3271 Sul Affordable Housing. One and two bed- TUTORING AVAILABLE FROM Rice student one-on-one in their homes during to pick up 4th grade Duchesne stu- Ross, 646-361-6794, deannaa.clark@ room condominiums with close prox- with 6 years of tutoring experience. after school hours and possibly on dent. Some tutoring and after-school yahoo.com. imity to Rice University. Tennis courts. Can tutor Math and Science subjects to weekends throughout the 2009-2010 activities are involved, plus babysit- students, call 832-310-8665. school year. Hourly rate is $25/hour. ting when parents have evening com- Please contact Alyson at At-Home Tu- mitments. Tina Pyne 713 517 7555+ ADVERTISING CLASSIFIEDS SUBSCRIPTIONS toring Services for more information [email protected] We accept display and classified advertise 1-35 words $15 Annual subscription rates: at 713-572-3533 or email hometutor- ments. The Thresher reserves the right 36-70 words $30 $60/year domestic [email protected]. PART TIME NANNY NEEDED for sweet to refuse any advertising for any reason. 70-105 words $45 $125/year international via First Class Mail Additionally, the Thresher does not take 5 year old boy. Reliable car and car responsibility for the factual content of any Cash, check, or credit card payment must Non-subscription rate: The Barbara and David Gibbs Well- insurance necessary. M- Th 3p.m. - ad. Printing an advertisement does not con accompany your classified advertise- First copy free r ness and Recreation Center at Rice 6p.m. and Fridays noon- 5. Plus, Wed stitute an endorsement by the Thresher. ment, which must be received by j p.m. Second copy $5 on the Monday prior to publication. University is hiring CERTIFIED PER- and Thurs nights so flexible evening Display advertisements must be received by SONAL TRAINERS. Applicants must scheulde is a must. More hours dur- 5 p.m. on the Monday prior to publication. The Rice Thresher The Rice Thresher be nationally certified through either ing summers. Contact: nannyi23i4@ Attn: Classifieds Attn: Subscriptions Cathleen Chang, Molly Slattery 6100 Main St. MS-524 ACSM or NSCA with at least 2 years yahoo.com 6100 Main St. MS-524 Advertising Manager Houston, TX 77005-1892 Houston, TX 77005-1892 experience. If you are interested 713-348-3967 Phone 713-348-3974 Phone 713 348-3967 please send your resume to fitness@ Family in West University is looking [email protected] Fax 713 348-5238 rice.edu. for Reliable and Kind after school