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1-17-2012

Current, January 17, 2012

University of Missouri-St. Louis

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This Newspaper is brought to you for free and open access by the Student Newspapers at IRL @ UMSL. It has been accepted for inclusion in Current (2010s) by an authorized administrator of IRL @ UMSL. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Jan. 17, 2012 VOL. 45; ISSUE 1364 TheWWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM Current Last year’s tornadoes leave mark one year later

By Cate Marquis, page 2 NIKKI VAHLE / THE CURRENT

ALSO INSIDE

‘Tinker,Man Eating Tailor, SandwichSoldier, Spy’ MLK winner recognized Men’s basketball 77 ThomasNew art Alfredson installation reimagines feeds one the man spy 1312 Essay winner Andrew Smith interviewed 14 Tritons pulling ahead in the standings 2 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | NEWS TheCurrent VOL. 45, ISSUE 1364 News WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM Yesteryear’s tornadoes still leaving marks in EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief...... Matthew B. Poposky Managing Editor...... Jeremy Zschau St. Louis; updates on damages and recoveries News Editor...... Hali Flintrop Features Editor...... Ashley Atkins Sports Editor...... Owen Shroyer A&E Editor...... Cate Marquis Tornadoes of New Year’s Eve and Good Friday 2011 Opinions Editor...... Aladeen Klonowski Copy Editors...... Sara Novak, Caryn Rogers, Casey Rogers Staff Writers...... David von still marking communities, birth rebuilding projects Nordheim, Yusef Roach, Eli Dains, Dan Spak, Joseph Grate, Dianne Ridgeway, Janaca Scherer, Sharon Pruitt, Leon Devance, Saad Sharieff CATE MARQUIS DESIGN A&E Editor Design Editor...... Janaca Scherer Photo Editor...... Nikki Vahle For the recent New are still recovering from ripped up on that street.” deal with that situation as Web Editor...... Yusef Roach Year the weather was 2011. “Everything is not When the tornado hit, well.” Staff Photographers...... Jarred Gastreich, Sarah surprisingly mild, but necessarily back to normal Perniciaro was at his job at The First Baptist Lowe, Jenny Meahan a year ago it was wild. but I think we are settling Bailey’s Chocolate Bar in Ferguson church at Royal Illustrators...... Karlee Sellars Tornadoes on New Year’s into a new normal,” Pam Lafayette Square. “I was at and Florissant was hit. Eve ushered in 2011, a Hylton, assistant to the work but my parents were “We were blessed that BUSINESS rough weather year in City Manager of Ferguson, home. They were down in all the damage to the Business Manager...... John Wallace Missouri. said. “There are some the basement. They said buildings were in the Advertising Director...... John Wallace The National Weather businesses that are still they just barely got down education buildings. Distribution Manager...... Mavis Hollis Service reported that working on recovering, in the basement in time for Our worship center was Advisor...... Charlotte Petty nine tornadoes touched and there are still some the tornado to come by,” virtually untouched by CONTACT US down in and around homes that are in that Perniciaro said. the tornado,” associate St. Louis around mid- repair process.” Homeowner’s insurance pastor Ron Beckner said. Address 388.MSC,.1.University.Blvd day on December 31, Royal Avenue, which helped. “We are pretty “Although it came through Saint Louis, MO 63121-4400 2010. Hardest hit was runs between North much re-built now... A on Good Friday, right Newsroom 314-516-5174 Business/Advertising 314-516-5316 Sunset Hills, where a Florissant Road and N. couple of months after the after we had had our Good Fax 314-516-6811 tornado rated EF-3 on the Elizabeth Avenue, was tornado, everything was Friday services here in the E-mail.(General) [email protected] National Weather Service’s one such street heavily fixed up,” Perniciaro said. church, we were able to E-mail.(Advertising) [email protected] Enhanced Fujita Scale damaged in the tornadoes. Not everyone in the have a candlelight service E-mail.(Employment.Inquiries) [email protected] destroyed several homes “There is one street called neighborhood recovered as on Easter Sunday morning E-mail.(Tips / What’s Current) [email protected] and killed one person. Royal where the tornado easily. “There are at least that was incredible,” Twitter umslcurrent On April 22, 2011, basically went right up one or two abandoned Beckner said. Facebook The Current Good Friday, an EF-4 the street and ripped most houses on the street, and Repairs are still tornado ripped through of the trees out of the a couple more in the underway and that total ABOUT The Current the St. Louis North front-yards. This was an neighborhood,” Perniciaro cost of repairs would come The Current is the student newspaper at the University of Missouri- County area. It tore area where the front yards said. to “around two and three- St. Louis, printing weekly through the fall and spring semesters on through Maryland probably had not seen the “We had 700 homes quarters million dollars.” Mondays. Advertising rates are available upon request; terms, condi- Heights, Bridgeton, light of day in fifty years. that were damaged,” “A lot of those houses tions and restrictions apply. The Current, financed in part by student Lambert St. Louis Suddenly, all that tree Hylton said of Ferguson (on Royal) have been activities fees, is not an official publication of UM-St. Louis. International Airport and canopy they were used as a whole. “We still have restored and are being put The University is not responsible for the content of The Current and/ or its policies. All materials contained in each printed and online is- Ferguson, a community to is now gone, so they about 93 homes that back together, with some sue are property of The Current and may not be reprinted, reused, or near the University of are struggling with a new are in the repair phase. areas that are a little slower reproduced without the prior, expressed and written consent of The Missouri-St. Louis campus. normal.” The city is tracking and to recover and homes that Current. Despite widespread “I live on Royal. The trying to encourage the have been abandoned,” The Current accepts letters to the editor. All letters should be brief, property destruction from tornado pretty much tore restoration of those homes. said Hylton. “But I think and those not exceeding 250 words will be given preference. The Cur- the Good Friday tornado, down one side of that However, some of them, that slowly but surely the rent edits letters for clarity and length, not for dialect, correctness, in- no one was killed. street,” Mark Perniciaro the homeowners did walk whole community is on tent or grammar. All letters must be signed and must include a daytime Many communities said. “A lot of houses were away, so we do have to the way to recovery.” phone number and, where applicable, student number. The Editor-in- Chief reserves the right to respond to and to deny any letters. WEATHER AFFILIATIONS MON. 59 TUES. 36 WED. 34 THURS. 45 FRI. 52 SAT. 54 SUN. 60 30 18 27 30 36 43 38 NEWS | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 3 Mitt Romney and President Barack ObamaThe win UNDERCURRENT Iowa caucus Traditionally unconventional caucus attendees’ voices are heard in end results

DIANNE RIDGEWAY Staff Writer

Winning the first round percent of the vote and refer to themselves as the cally, allowing time to per- of Iowa to the other,” said the caucus. “The whole of the presidential nomina- candidate Jon Huntsman “99 percent” based on the suade the neighbors before American political blog thing that makes Iowa im- tions in Iowa last week, got .6 percent of the vote. statistic that one percent of casting votes. Republicans DailyKOS. The party later portant is the media that it President Barack Obama Also joining the Iowa Americans own the major- typically write their votes released a statement chang- generates for the winner,” and Republican frontrun- caucus this year was ity of wealth, leaving the on blank pieces of paper, ing their position, deciding said David Yepsen, politi- ners Mitt Romney and the group Occupy Iowa remaining 99 percent in then submit them. to count and report the cal reporter, Des Moines Rick Santorum had an Caucus. They visited need. Events aired on the The controversy re- 136 votes. Register. “It’s the cover of eventful and controversial Democratic offices, Barack cable channel C-SPAN and volved around the Republi- Some democratic at- Time magazine and what couple of days. The leading Obama’s campaign of- local PBS stations of Oc- can Party’s decision not to tendees showed up in the networks are talking Republicans were separated fice and each Republican cupy Iowa caucus included report votes of “undecided” “uncommitted” groups, about. That’s the prize,” by only a tenth of a percent candidate’s office in Iowa. music, poetry readings and to the media from this dissatisfied with President Yepsin said. (eight votes) out of the Occupy Iowa Caucus, speeches prepared and ad- year’s caucus. They planned Obama’s past three-year Winners of the Iowa over 100,000 votes cast. originally Occupy Wall libbed by those who were to “hide rate,” meaning performance. Reports on caucuses in 2000 and 2008 Romney finished the Iowa Street, is a group com- “uncommitted” to any of not report, votes for “no iowademocrats.org indicate were George W. Bush and caucus with 24.6 percent mitted to nonviolent civil the candidates. preference,” believing they that over 98 percent of President Obama. Candi- of the votes to Santorum’s protest calling attention to Voting “uncommit- should not be made visible the delegates pledged their dates who went on to win 24.5 percent.Republican issues of corporate greed, ted” in the Democratic to all Iowans. “By hide rat- support to the president. the general election after Senator Ron Paul trailed, bank greed and corruption Party and “undecided” for ing votes of ‘no preference’ The bulk of support for winning Iowa included with 21.4 percent of votes. in policymaking around Republicans is a long-time and turning their backs on Republican candidate Bill Clinton and Ronald Newt Gingrich received the globe. The movement tradition for Iowa and their own traditions, they Romney is primarily from Reagan. Predicting winners roughly 13 percent of began on September 17th, has even taken the lead are showcasing their own urban precincts, and Santo- and generating media at- votes, followed by Rick 2011 and has taken place some years. The parties intolerance and exclusion- rum received much of the tention may be present-day Perry with 10.3 percent. in 951 cities in 82 coun- have different processes. ary values for all to see… rural vote in the Hawkeye intentions, but this Iowa Michele Bachmann decided tries around the world Democrats initially group and deserve nothing more state. caucus produced one solid to suspend her campaign with the goal of reducing together in support of than laughter and ridicule Some argue the real winner: the voter. after receiving only five economic inequality. They different candidates physi- from one side of the State value or benefit of winning

The UNDERCURRENT by Sarah Lowe “What did you do over winter break?”

“I worked all break.” Ronald Heaggans “I worked a lot and hung Kristin Williams “I worked, fished, Joshua Lembeck Junior with my family and friends. Junior studied and visited Junior Biochemistry & I also went to a Lord of Psychology family.” Business Psychology Biotechnology the Rings marathon and hosted a Harry Potter marathon.” Physics professor impacts UMSL; memorial- “He was a leader in the Department of Physics & Astronomy, a superb astronomy teacher for thousands .” ized for accomplishments -Bruce Wilking

4 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | NEWS Legislation concerning financial aid promises new improvements MATTHEW B. POPOSKY Editor-in-Chief

President Barack Obama people who have direct students attending UMSL recently signed into law a loans in addition to loans now and in future semes- string of reforms concern- from a private lender. ters. ing Federal Financial Aid. Those loans could then be In addition, Georges These changes are meant consolidated to a lower, talked about how changes to help benefit the stu- single rate” Tony Georges, to Federal Financial Aid do dents who are completing Director of Financial Aid, not always actually benefit their college educations UMSL, said. the majority of institu- in this time of economic Naturally, this could be tions to which they apply. strife and the slow job beneficial to students who “Rules and regulations are market enveloping not are concerned with figur- not made specifically for only the United States, but ing out how to balance the sectors they origi- the world. paying off several different nate from. Rather, they According to an article lenders after graduating. are applied to everybody on StateNews.com, one of With education prices when a problem is found these changes will be the rising and students having in a very specific sector or Pay as You Earn proposal, access to more choices for institution in the United which effectively sets a financial aid, it can be States. This can actually cap of ten percent on any daunting to balance repay- cause more problems to loan collection through an ment after college. Even if emerge than those which individual’s discretionary this option is only avail- the changes were meant income (the money left able to a select group of to solve in the first place,” over after paying for living students, its benefits still Georges said. Student loan legislation has changed for the better. SARAH LOWE / THE CURRENT expenses such as food and exist. With such a variety housing). In addition, this “The problem with of changes already on change would bring about changes right now, in gen- the way and even more loan forgiveness after only eral, is that whenever there sure to come to light in 20 years for most loan is an article written about the coming months, it is holders and a possible changes to the financial evident that students will earlier point of 15 years for aid system, students react want to keep an eye on those going into a career in very powerfully. Some are the resources available to public service or educa- scared, and some instantly them. “Know your lenders. tion. run out without under- Contact the companies Of course, such a standing whether it can holding your loans to learn change is going to hold truly benefit them or not. more. And read our news- a degree of appeal to Most of the issues right letter when we release it,” students exiting their col- now do not affect students Georges said. lege careers and entering so much as they affect the Those hoping to learn FM with IQ into the job market. The lenders and the institu- more in the meantime University of Missouri – tions, like UMSL, who would certainly do well to St. Louis’ own Office of hold these loans. They will take Georges’ advice. Many Financial Aid was reached give us more headaches lenders have 24/7 custom- for comment on the up- than they will the stu- er support lines available coming changes, including dents,” Georges said. and some even have local comments on another pro- Georges also cited that offices. Knowing the facts posal to consolidate loans UMSL’s Financial Aid concerning financial aid for students whose loans Office plans on releasing can help avoid trouble may come from a variety a newsletter to the entire down the line for students of sources. community in the upcom- who have taken out finan- “The loan consolidation ing weeks concerning how cial aid. Know the facts will be for a very restricted these changes to financial and utilize the changes group of folks. It is for aid may aid or impact the that are coming up. READ The Current A Service of The University of Missouri – St. Louis NEWS | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 5 Rep. Bachmann botches Iowa, UM System Board of Curators drops out of Presidential race selects a permanent President HALI FLINTROP JOSEPH GRATE Staff Writer Staff Writer

Representative Michele in Florida and run a more taxes and removing the new On December 13, 2011 bilities. president of Covansys, a Bachmann was, for a mo- national campaign. T ese regulations on credit. Tim Wolfe was announced During his introduc- global consulting and tech- ment, the star of the 2012 campaign choices were to Representative Bach- to be the next president of tion at Reynolds Alumni nology company, for a few Republican presidential Representative Bachmann’s mann described her stand the University of Mis- Center on the University years. Following this he race as the clear winner of detriment and despite the on foreign policy as one souri (UM) System. He is of Missouri - Columbia joined Novell, a provider the Iowa Straw Poll, but Straw Poll results, she only that would not shy from scheduled to replace the (Mizzou) campus, Wolfe of infrastructure software, the constitutionalist, social pulled 6,073 votes in the the use of force to protect interim president, Steve mentioned key aspects of until it was bought out. A and f scal conservative and Iowa caucus. T is amount United States interests. She Owen, on February 15, his ideas and expectations few months later, Wolfe only female in the race had is scant compared with said that President Obama 2012, at which time he for the UM System. He got a call offering him the a poor showing in the Iowa caucus-winner Romney’s ended the War on Terror hopes to begin instituting then proceeded to visit all opportunity to be presi- caucus due to reported 30,015 votes. Following the too quickly and that she changes for the benefit of the other UMS System dent of the UM System. missteps in her campaign, Iowa caucus, Representa- would be committed to all students, faculty, staff, campuses - first Rolla, then “I concluded that my which caused her to stop tive Bachmann dropped winning it. and communities sur- the University of Missouri- Missouri roots, my leader- seeking the Republican her candidacy for the GOP Representative Bach- rounding campuses in the St. Louis (UMSL). “My ship experience, all in nomination. presidential nomination. mann’s healthcare policies UM System. role right now is to visit all addition to my passion for Representative Bach- Representative Bach- clearly stated that repeal- The board of curators the campuses and under- higher education, could mann had an impressive mann has served as the ing the current healthcare for the UM System was stand as much as I can likely help the UM System showing early in the G.O.P sixth district United States reform act was her pet faced with a dilemma about the challenges they to further its quest in race. For citizens, she House Representative for issue. She said that Presi- when Gary Farsee, the for- face,” Wolfe said in an teaching research, service served as a conservative Minnesota since 2006. dent Obama’s healthcare mer president of the UM interview with St. Louis’s and economic develop- alternative to more moder- Representative Bachmann’s law will harm the United System, resigned early due Channel 5 News, KSDK. ment,” Wolfe said. ate candidate and front- congress website bachman. States healthcare system to his wife’s recovery from Wolfe holds a great The big issue that looms runner Mitt Romney. At house.gov characterized by increasing govern- cancer. To temporarily take deal of respect for the UM over every campus in the the beginning, some party her as a constitutional ment involvement, which his place, Steve Owens System. “The UM System UM System at the moment of cials and news media conservative who prom- Representative Bachmann became acting president, is the state’s greatest asset,” is the constant threat of a were skeptical of Represen- ises to support legislation staunchly opposes in most allowing the curators to Wolfe said during the news tuition hike. For UMSL tative Bachmann’s potential that simplif es and limits cases. Representative Bach- carefully choose his re- conference at Mizzou. students, there is talk because of her relatively government and relies on mann wanted to extend placement. He himself was raised in of increasing tuition to short stint in the United literal interpretation of the Medicare and keep it con- After months of care- Missouri and is a gradu- compete with the cur- States Congress and her less Constitution. sistent, though her web- ful deliberation, the new ate from Mizzou, having rent market rates. During established voting record. Representative Bach- site does not outline how president of the UM earned a Bachelor’s degree Wolfe’s travels, he said that Public support for Bach- mann publicizes on her this can be accomplished. System was announced as in personnel manage- he would first listen to mann led her to win the campaign website, michele- She also wants increased President-Designate Tim ment during his college what all the other constitu- Iowa Straw Poll, a poll used bachmann.com, that she is competition in the health- Wolfe. Wolfe is currently career. He also finished an ents from other campuses for projecting the results of in favor of religious liberty, care market and would delaying his position to 18-month internship with have to say. the Iowa Caucus. is pro-life and favors the presumably support further adjust and prepare for the Cramer Products while “We have to continue After that win, the traditional family. Her privatizing it and elimi- job. attending the University of to find ways to creatively Washington Post reported economic policies include nating healthcare related According to The Missour - Columbia before deliver high quality educa- that Representative Bach- “repatriation” of United government regulations. Missourian, Columbia’s moving on to a few jobs. tion to more people at a mann made some critical States money, presumably Her take on the en- newspaper, Owens said After that, he started a lower cost,” Wolfe said. errors in her campaign, that by lowering business taxes ergy issue is similar, as she that he would stay on to budding career with IBM His final words at the led to her dropping out of to entice branches of the reported that she advo- lead the curators into the Corporation in Mis- conference in MU were the race. She did not raise United States currently out- cates reducing government vote about tuition and fee souri that lasted for 20 that the UM system should enough campaign money sourcing overseas back into regulations that limit the increases. He also said that years. This allowed him identify the market needs to run early television ads the country. Her economic actions of energy com- the two months would to experience a variety of and, at the end of the day, in Iowa in preparation for policy also suggests lower- panies, and eliminate the give Wolfe the opportunity leadership positions. He have more student success. the caucus and she actu- ing the number and salaries Environmental Protection to better understand the left IBM and went on to “We need to chart our own ally left Iowa to campaign of government jobs, cutting Agency. position and its responsi- become the executive vice course,” Wolfe said.

SOMETIMES IT’S OKAY TO LET STRANGERS TALK TO YOU.

READ The Current 6 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | WHAT’S CURRENT Your weekly calendar of campus events. “What’s Current” is a free service for student organizations. Submissions must be turned in by 5 p.m. the Thursday before publication; fi rst-come, fi rst-served. Listings may be edited for length and What’s Current style. E-mail event listings to [email protected], with the subject “What’s Current.” No phone or written submissions.

This week, UMSL’s campus was covered in the fi rst big snow of the winter. SARAH LOWE / THE CURRENT Wenesday, January 18 Friday, January 20 Mindfulness meditation Student government association general assembly meeting From 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Located in the Center for Student Success and open to all. From 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Located in the MSC SGA Chambers and open to all. Mindfulness Meditation is a proven—and increasingly popular—method for reducing stress, The Student Government Association will be holding its monthly General Assembly Meeting to anxiety, insomnia, and a variety of medical conditions. Incorporating mindfulness into your announce reports, discuss current issues and pass new SGA legislation. All meetings are open. schedule can enhance your overall well-being and allow you to live your life more fully. These For more information, call Jericah Selby at 314-516-5130. weekly guided Mindfulness activities are free and open to beginning as well as experienced meditators. For more information, call Jamie Linson at 314-516-5711.

Thursday, January 19 Monday, January 23 Spring semester peer academic leaders seminar Wellness classes sponsored by Campus Recreation From 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Located at the Center for Teaching and Learning and open to all. Check online for times. Located at Mark Twain Recreation Center and open to all. It is campus policy that all undergraduates who are working as tutors, mentors, or in similar Get healthy! Get happy! Join Campus Rec’s Winter/Spring Wellness Programs. AEROBICS & positions attend the Peer Academic Leader Seminar (PALS). This seminar introduces you to SPINNING Spinning, Body Challenge, Core Fusion, Pilates, Stretch & Tone, Yoga, Water Exercise mandatory campus policies and procedures such as FERPA, Sexual Harassment, and Anti- Training, Zumba, and more. For class descriptions, schedules, and fees, visit www.umsl.edu/ser- Discrimination laws; prevention of academic dishonesty; and student conduct regulations. vices/recsport For more information, call Peggy Cohen at 314-516-7133. For more information, call Campus Recreation at 314-516-5326.

Tuesday, January 24 Succeeding in online classes From 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Located in the Center for Student Success and open to students. Are you thinking about enrolling in an online course? Or are you already enrolled in one and would like to gain tips on how to succeed? This workshop is intended to give you a comprehensive look at online learning. We hope that it not only answers some questions about online courses but that it also provides tools necessary to succeed in this relatively new and exciting method of learning. For more information, call Antoinette Sterling at 314-516-5300. A&E | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current 7 A&E

Gary Oldman stars as George Smiley in Focus Feature’s release of Tomas Alfredson’s TINKER, TAILOR, SOLDIER, SPY. PHOTO COURTESY OF JACK ENGLISH Alfredson’s Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is no ordinary spy movie

DAVID VON NORDHEIM gave rise to modern Smiley believes that a Soviet flm’s intricacy then that however, it seems that some best known for the Staff Writer espionage through the mole in the agency is to this very impenetrability of Le Carre’s fendishly spellbinding supernatural perspective of veteran MI6 blame for the debacle. is also its one major intricate design was lost drama “Let the Right One To most flm-goers, the agent George Smiley. He certainly has his hindrance. Alfredson is in translation, as several In,” crafts an utterly chilling phrase “spy movie” tends to Gary Oldman is nothing work cut out for him. clearly a director who of the novels tangents, Cold War-era Europe, a bring certain expectations short of masterful as the Although 007’s nemeses refuses to backpedal for including subplots involving bleak landscape populated with it: the hero, a roguish disillusioned Smiley, often throw an eye patch or the sake of exposition, a homosexual tryst between by vacant cities which have playboy with an arsenal imparting the aggressively a Russian accent in for good and consequently, the two MI6 agents and an a lot more in common with of absurd gadgets at his clandestine man with a measure, these bad guys many shady characters and operative who goes AWOL “28 Days Later” than James disposal; the villain, a bald poignant weariness as are not so easily identifed. intricate subplots the flm to rescue the battered wife Bond. European who reveals his he tries to unravel the Seemingly everyone in the throws at the audience of the Soviet agent he Just as the Alfredson’s ridiculously convoluted Byzantine communist agency, including Smiley quickly become difcult to is tailing, simply vanish “Let the Right One In” scheme while stroking a conspiracy which threatens himself, operates with a manage. before reaching a satisfying sucked the schlock out of Persian cat. to engulf the agency and hidden agenda, adding layer “Tinker’s” previous conclusion. horror, “Tinker, Tailor, “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, him with it. upon sufocating layer of incarnation, a 1979 Despite the occasional Soldier, Spy” injects a dose Spy” is a spy movie, to be Te flm follows the complexity. television miniseries which plot hole, Alfredson of gritty realism into the certain, but a spy movie cut weathered Smiley as he In “Tinker,” director starred Alec Guinness as succeeds in paring the spy thriller, creating another from a dramatically diferent tries to unravel the cryptic Tomas Alfredson’s vision Smiley, used its length Smiley chronicle to its genre flm which implodes mold. Based on Jean Le circumstances surrounding of Cold War-era Europe, to advantage, allowing it essentials. While “Tinker’s” its own tradition in favor Carre’s novel of the same a disastrous MI6 operation there is no white or black, to more easily navigate political origins may be of something far more name, “Tinker” explores in which a fellow agent was just the hazy gray which Le Carre’s famously well-traveled, its direction fascinating. the lingering tension and captured and presumably permeates every scene. labyrinthine story structures. is decidedly contemporary. Grade: B+ political paranoia which murdered by KGB agents. It is truly a credit to the In Alfredson’s flm, Director Tomas Alfredson, 8 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | A&E The best of 2011 LATEST + GREATEST torrent of solo releases Raphael Saadiq had MOVIES DAVID VON NORDHEIM from Odd Future’s many long been touted for his Staff Writer members seemed poised to supporting role in the R&B OPENING FRIDAY, JANUARY 20: All in all, 2011 was monopolize underground community, his own releases a pretty typical year in hip-hop in 2011, Shabazz typically took a backseat EXTREMELY LOUD & INCREDIBLY CLOSE (everywhere) music. ’s “21,” an Palaces’ “Black Up” came to his contributions as - Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock star as the parents of a boy struggling to old-fashioned collection of out of nowhere to steal producer and songwriter cope with his father’s death in the World Trade Towers on September 11. pop tunes if there ever was their thunder. With its to artists such as Jill Scott, one, was the frst choice for fractured beats and abstract Kelis and Erykah Badu. HAYWIRE (everywhere) of the Year. “Watch rhymes, “Black Up” is Still, it is difcult to imagine -Steven Sodebergh directs this action thriller about a betrayed black- the Trone” killed two truly a thinking man’s rap Saadiq relegating himself ops soldier (Gina Carano), backed by a big-name cast that includes the birds with one stone as the album boasting a cosmic to second fddle for much ubiquitous Michael Fassbender, Ewan McGregor, Channing Tatum, Michael requisite Kanye West and weirdness not seen since longer after listening Douglas and Antonio Banderas. Jay-Z release, that garners Kool Keith’s Dr. Octagon to the explosive “Stone far more attention than days. Of course, it does Rollin’,” a defantly jubilant, A DANGEROUS METHOD (Plaza Frontenac) it deserves. Lady Gaga’s not hurt that Ishmael utterly infectious blast -One of several Oscar hopefuls making their way here in the next few pop culture domination Butler, the mastermind of thoroughly pedigreed weeks, “A Dangerous Method” stars Michael Fassbender as Carl Jung, Vigo continued as she made guest behind Palaces and a major neo-soul. Like all great Mortensen as Sigmund Freud and Keira Knightley as a brilliant woman appearances on everything player in alternative rap R&B records, “Stone patient in a searing, intelligent drama about social attitudes and early from Paul Simon albums to legend Digable Planets, is a Rollin’” plays like a virtual psychoanalysis set in pre-World War I Europe. the Simpsons. veteran of the sort of high- history lesson on the genre, Since 2011 seemed to minded hip-hop heard on particularly emphasizing SHAME (Tivoli) do very little to distinguish “Black Up.” Although the the rock ‘n’ roll spectrum -Another Oscar contender, this taut drama also stars Michael Fassbender as itself in the annals of pop surrealism of Shabazz Palaces as it careens from Sly & a New York man with a sexual addiction who is forced to confront his life music, the sheer diversity of is a far cry from Digable the Family Stone to Chuck when his troubled sister, played by Carey Mulligan, moves in with him. 2011’s many highlights came Planets’ earnestness, it is Berry. But while a straight- as some thing of a shock. clear that the 15 years since faced retread of R&B’s PARIAH (Tivoli) Te year was peppered the last DP release has not innovators would be a -Oscar bait again, a powerful indie drama exploring the forbidden territory with groundbreaking diminished the talents of rather lifeless afair, Saadiq of lesbian teens in the black community. releases in rock, hip-hop, the artist formerly known as injects the proceedings with R&B, electronic and pretty Butterfy in the slightest. enough reverence and wit “Dedication” by much every other genre to make it both charmingly MUSIC Zomby: imaginable. A requiem for familiar and entirely “Smother” by Wild Zomby’s departed father, original. “Smoke Ring for My Beasts: Wild Beasts rely “Dedication” is the TUESDAY, JANUARY 17: Halo” by Kurt Vile: on a nostalgia for the sonic equivalent of a funeral A excesses of the 1980s. march. Whereas Zomby’s motley bunch of low-f pop ATTACK! ATTACK! “THIS MEANS WAR!” Although they are hardly previous efort, 2008’s tunes from the brooding -Releasing their first full-length album in almost a year, Attack Attack is the only group trying to “Where Were U in 92?” Midwesterner known simply going to be making waves with their latest album. Strangely featuring all resurrect the sumptuous played like a goofy ode as Kurt Vile, “Smoke Ring track names that start with “The” (not joking here, all 10 tracks start with sounds of new wave, they to 1990s culture, for My Halo” was one of the word the), “This Means War!” is going to be a hit without a doubt. are undoubtedly one of the Zomby’s sophomore 2011’s biggest revelations. fnest. “Smother” culls its release forsakes the party Vile had previously pegged “A FLASH FLOOD OF COLOUR” inspiration from sources vibe of its predecessor himself as a promising -When the first single from this album “Sssnakepit,” it was hard to figure which have largely fallen for something far more newcomer on the indie out what the album was to become. But now it is obvious that Brit post- out of fashion in modern austere and introspective. singer/songwriter scene, hardcore band Enter Shikari has found the perfect combination between indie rock, such as Adam Despite its dour origins, beginning with his tenure everything that could possibly be good about dubstep and combine it with Ant’s hypersexuality, “Dedication” never wallows as lead guitarist for the like- their already unique and singular sound. Buy this album. It will blow your Morrissey’s detached wit and in its sorrow and much minded outft Te War on mind. Siousxie and the Banshee’s like that other anonymous Drugs. Whereas that group’s overproduced grandeur. dubstep wunderkind twangy, shufing indie rock ANTHONY GREEN “BEAUTIFUL THINGS” Vocalist Hayden Torpe’s , its productions are brought Neil Young’s Crazy -Ex-vocalist of Circa Survive, Saosin, and The Sound of Animal’s Fighting lyrical focus rarely strays far equal parts danceable and Horse output to mind, Vile’s has a new solo project that is sure to deliver. The amazing vocal abilities from sex or dying, and often thought-provoking. While accomplished solo work is of Anthony Green are going to be back in the ear buds of listeners soon addresses both subjects in Burial favored bleaker, more more haunting, low-key enough and the music will be so sweet listeners cannot help but hit repeat. the same song with a mega- emotionally sterile territory, territory. “Smoke Ring for literate delivery reminiscent Zomby’s “Dedication” My Halo’s” shambling, bare- TUESDAY, JANUARY 24: of Belle & Sebastian’s Stuart is disarmingly emotive, bones aesthetic carries the Murdoch. Individually, these demonstrating the grace same Neil Young torch with FOXY SHAZAM “THE CHURCH OF ROCK AND ROLL” elements are not particularly and poignancy of which decidedly diferent results, -Who knows what is going to come from this album. Foxy Shazam is back original, but they are dubstep, often perceived as with Vile emerging as the in the studio recording what may be one of their most outstanding records superbly executed. a superfcial favor-of-the- younger, more naive cousin to date. Pushing the limits with their untouchable and indefinable style. It “Black Up” by month, is capable. to the weary drunk on is nothing like they have ever done before but they have developed a more “Stone Rollin’” by Shabazz Palaces: Just Young’s own “Tonight’s the defined sound than ever before. Raphael Saadiq: as the seemingly endless Although Night.” A&E | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 9 Best films of 2011 including Everyone gets old; not everyone the unexpected and unusual grows up, and ‘Young Adult’ means it CATE MARQUIS story through the eyes of flm is built around a loose ALADEEN KOLONOWSKI A&E Editor individuals on both sides, tale of two sisters played by Staff Writer the Japanese soldiers and the Kirsten Dunst and Charlotte spoon-feed the audience. Mavis and Patton Oswalt is a It is traditional to greet If we compare the flm Chinese and international Gainsbourg, a wedding, It presents the life of Mavis charming sidekick. Oswalt’s the new year with a look “Young Adult” to leftovers residents of the occupied clinical depression, self- Gary (Charlize Teron), Matt Freehauf is possibly the back at the past one. So in the refrigerator, it might city. Tis is an astonishing delusion and the end of the a 27-year-old ghostwriter only character worth giving a here is a look back with be the spicy foreign food flm that can be viewed world. Tis flm is worth nearing the end of a long damn about. He is defnitely this critic’s picks for 2011’s that you only brought home in Mandarin, Japanese or your time for the images line of high school novels. the onlyonethat eases the best flms. Almost everyone because there are starving English. alone, many of which could Tat subtle fact helps explain tension. Tere is a lot of loves lists, but your list kids somewhere. So you set Te Descendents: George be framed and hung in a who she is fundamentally. subtle character development and this list may not agree. it next to the plain, boring Clooney gives the best gallery. Spending years writing for Mavis but Oswalt’s Matt Hopefully you will agree leftovers you eat every day, performance of his career in Skin I Live In: Spanish from the point of view is a pretty-straight forward with some of these choices, romantic comedies like “No this flm from “Sideways” director Pedro Almodovar of a high school student guy. or feel like checking on Strings Attached” and “Te director Alexander Payne. practically re-invents the would make it hard to grow As a prescript for a some of the flms you have Ugly Truth.” What do you Te story is set in Hawaii classic horror flm, and up, as the flm’s tagline movie, “Young Adult” is not seen yet. Films are listed think you will reach for? Te and deals with family, legacy proves once again that he suggests: “Everyone gets bad. Nobody gets what they alphabetically. foreign food might leave a and the struggles of a man really knows how to make old. Not everyone grows wants. Tere is no happy Te Artist:Tis black and weird taste in your mouth, with two daughters who a movie. Te scariest flm up.” First and foremost, a ending. Mavis is not tamed white, nearly-silent flm is a but it clears your sinuses, or learns his comatose wife was of the year, it stars Antonio writer’s characters have to be like the shrew and she is not clever, technical marvel of a in this case, your dependence cheating on him. this movie Banderas as a brilliant plastic believable or it is impossible hit by a bus like the witch in love letter to early flms, but on the normal movie mold is a touching, realistic mix of surgeon with issues. It has to care about them. “Mean Girls.” Walking out it is also so entertaining and that has gotten a little bit… drama and comedy, just as a twisty, edge-of-your-seat Mavis Gary is a static of the theater, it was hard afecting that it made the well, moldy. life often really is. script but it works through character. She does not to fgure out just what had leap from flm festivals to “Young Adult” is not Drive: Tis movie is suspense, imagination and change, and that is not what happened. What was the multiple screens everywhere a likable movie but it is a nothing like what you skillful storytelling rather people go to movies to see. ideal outcome? Mavis breaks in the same way “Slumdog thought-provoking one. expect. A stylish, visually- than plain gore. Tere is plenty of that in up some poor, unsuspecting Millionaire” did. It is a It is hard to sit through striking, twisting and Tree of Life: Another our daily lives. In the end guy’s marriage on a whim mix of drama, comedy and because it is unexpected. emotionally rich flm from visual movie that demands there is no pretty bow for the thinking it will save her life, romance packed with movie Te previews and the fact director Nicolas Winding a big screen, this one has top of the box of crazy that and then it does? Tank references for the fan of old that it was written by the Refn, “Drive” breaks the drawn comparisons to is the “protagonist” of the goodness that was not the Hollywood. same person who wrote rules of drama, crime Kubrick’s “2001.” Director movie. In fact, Mavis is the answer. Beginners: With “Juno” suggested it would thrillers and romance. Ryan Terrence Malick starts with antagonist of her own movie, Mavis has a chance at amazing acting and a be funny. Unfortunately, Gosling delivers another the creation of the universe which is not something that redemption near the end but clever, original narrative most of the humorous stunning performance as a and crafts a dreamscape happens. Ever. Hollywood she does not take it, because style, this emotionally- bits were cut together into laconic movie stunt driver flm that is a contemplative, has a formula and every that is not what people do. appealing drama-comedy the preview, viewers are who moonlights as a get- almost non-narrative, time- patron has it down pat. It is hard to change who you about a young artist (Ewan left with an onslaught of away driver. Carey Mulligan shifting meditation on life, Good luck watching “Young are and sometimes people McGregor) trying to fnd suggested mental illness and as a young mother heads a death, family, dinosaurs, Adult” without at least fail. “Young Adult” deserves his way to new love with unrelenting narcissism. great cast of actors playing volcanoes and faith, plus a having felt a little queasy at respect for representing that. a French actress (Melanie One of the most against type. remarkable child’s-eye view some point. Laurent) while still interesting things about the Hanna: Tis is another of growing up in 1950s Charlize Teron is Grade: C+ mourning his late father movie is that it does not rule-breaking thriller, from small-town America. A completely believable as (Christopher Plummer), “Atonement” director Joe visual delight flled with who came out as gay late in Wright. It is an unlikely astounding efects and life. It sounds far-fetched but departure that re-imagines stirring music, featuring a Herp & Derp want to hear your the story was based on the the spy thriller as a dark remarkable performance by writer/director Mike Mills’ Grimm’s fairy tale starring Brad Pitt, supported by Sean Best of Lists for 2011 own experiences and it is a young Saoirse Ronan as a Penn as his grown son. surprisingly universal warm girl raised to be an assassin Ides of March: In this tale of family and love. with marvelous supporting political drama, Ryan City of Life and performances by Cate Gosling ofers one of three Death: Tis moving Blanchett and Eric Bana. remarkable performances Chinese historical epic uses Melancholia: Tis this year, the others being in beautiful black and white visually lush flm demands “Crazy, Stupid, Love” and photography, an unusual to be seen on a big screen. “Drive.” Gosling plays an frst-person narrative Director Lars Von Trier idealistic campaign worker style and fabulous acting gives us a surreal, symbolic for a presidential hopeful to recount the infamous flm of amazing beauty (George Clooney) in this “Rape of Nanking” during with scene after scene intelligent, sometimes heart- World War II. Like Clint constructed like paintings breaking political thriller Eastwood’s pair of flms from the Pre-Raphaelites about modern campaigns, on Iwo Jima, it tells its or even the Surrealists. Te directed by Clooney. www.thecurrent-online.com 10 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 11_

CATE MARQUIS tableau as the painting is Many characters are in pairs, A&E Editor completed. often middle-class people Sondheim's “Sunday in the Park With George” continues Rep's wonderful art-filled season George and Dot's faltering who aspire to upper-class Te Repertory Teater love afair forms the emotional respectability and provide of St. Louis is having great heart of this play. Bohmer is much of the play's comic success this season with plays wonderful as the emotionally element as well as a shifting about artists this season. Te distant, obsessed artist. He soap opera. Rep opened its season last fall loves Dot but cannot see how George's friend and more with “Red,” a fabulous drama she is sufering in the heat of a successful fellow artist Jules about modern artist Mark Sunday afternoon in the park (Chris Hietikko) and his wife Rothko. Te Rep continues as she sings her discomfort Yvonne (Deanne Lorette) that trend with “Sunday and longing in “Sunday in the serve as the voice of the in the Park With George,” Park With George.” prevailing art world's opinion. Stephen Sondheim's musical Te luminous Drake is Teir servants, a married drama about French pointillist touching as Dot, who adores German couple Frieda painter Georges Seurat both the artist and his work, (Rebecca Watson) and Franz working on his masterpiece yet she is wasting away from (Jamie LaVerdiere), relishing “A Sunday Afternoon on the lack of any kindness from their day of in the park, Island of La Grand Jatte.” her lover. Teir duet, “Color discuss their own upwardly “Sunday in the Park and Light,” as George paints mobile ambitions. Te Old with George” is one of and Dot powders her face, Lady (Zoe Vonder Haar), Sondheim's best, with clever preparing for a rare night out, George's aristocratic mother, , memorable music and speaks clearly to their dilemma pines for the past while taxing an emotionally-involving and mutual love of his work. the patience of her nurse (Kari story. Te Rep's excellent Bringing the painting to Ely). production is a must-see. life is one of the joys of this Te frst act ends with a Rob Ruggiero directs the production. It starts with wonderful living tableau of two-act play. Te longer frst George facing a white stage, the famous painting as the cast act focuses on Seurat (Ron a blank canvas, which is sings “Sunday.” Bohmer) and his long-time suddenly transformed into the Te second act, rather mistress, model and muse background of the painting than resuming the story of Dot (Erin Drake) as the artist by clever staging. As George George and Dot, fast-forwards works obsessively on his paints his subjects in the park a hundred years. Te artist's masterpiece. Dot is devoted on Sundays, fats depicting great grandson, another artist to the artist but becomes elements in the painting, named George (Ron Bohmer increasingly frustrated as she stylized animals, pop up, again), is preparing to unveil is ignored by George, who parasols descend from above his latest modern art creation is creating a new kind of and painted trees slide across in the museum where Seurat's painting inspired by scientifc the stage. When the artist masterpiece is displayed. discoveries about perception. decides he does not like where With him is his 90-year-old Seurat covers his canvases a tree is located, the tree grandmother Marie (Erin in tiny dots of paint in trundles across the stage to a Drake), Dot's daughter. primary colors, such as red more pleasing spot. Te same actors take and blue, knowing that the It is not just the sets that new roles now. George is viewers' minds will blend recreate the painting, but surrounded by critics, patrons, them to create violet. While Alejo Vietti's costumes as well. museum directors and fellow the painting appears fat and Like the painting, the colors artists. While he really knows stify formal, there is a riot are created by tiny dots of how to work the room, he is of activity in the crowded primary colors that the eyes losing his artistic vision. Te scene. Characters are rich fuse into a blend. Te fower modern story resolves some of with details and clever on Dot's hat, for instance the issues of the frst act and social commentary about a is not really purple, it just ends with a living recreation rising middle-class and the appears that way. of the painting again. new concept of leisure. Te When the artist is working Tis excellent production painting shows a suburban in his studio, placing the runs through January 29 Paris park on the river Seine, precise little dots of color that and is well worth a trip to with people of various classes will create the illusion, the the Webster Groves campus. crowded together as they try large transparent version of Student discounts or to escape the city, ironically in the painting allows us to see bargain “rush” tickets make order to enjoy nature. both its outlines and the artist it possible for everyone to Apart from the artist, all at work. enjoy this wonderful, moving the characters in the play are Tere are playful songs production. also people in the painting, as George pays homage to who turn intovz a living Grade: A the elements in his painting.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis' production of 'Sunday in the Park with George' at the Loret- to-Hilton Center in St. Louis. ©PHOTO BY JERRY NAUNHEIM JR. 12 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | FEATURES Student recognized at MLK observance for winning essay ASHLEY ATKINS Features Editor at the Touhill Performing reasons for participating. our politicians to advocate Art Center. As first place “I am a social worker for social injustice just like How often do you check winner of the contest, and Martin Luther King Martin Luther King Jr. your student email? Smith is expected to grace Jr. was an advocate for did.” For student Andrew the stage where he will social justice and that is Beyond the essay Smith Smith, junior, social work, deliver his essay word for kind of what social work is working on realizing the answer might be “not word. is all about: social justice this meaning through his enough.” Deborah J Burris, for the underprivileged actions. Last summer, In early November director, Office of Equal people,” Smith said. “That he devoted his time to 2011, the Office of Opportunity and Diversity, really stuck out to me. It Camp Wyman in Eureka, Equal Opportunity and said that the essay contest helped me want to be in Missouri, where he acted Diversity at the University had a three-fold purpose. the contest.” in the leadership role of Missouri – St. Louis “First, is to engage Smith admits that while among teenagers on a daily sent out a mass email the students in serious beginning to construct basis. He is helping his concerning a Dr. Martin reflection about the the essay he did not have message come to life by Luther King Jr. essay principles that Dr. King a specific point, though looking toward a career contest. The theme of the espoused by applying those he did want to construct in social work, a position essay was “How can we principles to a current something that was that he has come to respect further Dr. King’s legacy of issue of our world. Second interesting and creative. after depending on the service in today’s economic the contest is intended to The majority of his essay government in his earlier climate?” provide an opportunity revolved around a saying youth. The contest was for students to enhance that was commonly used in “It was fine because I open to all registered their analytical and writing public during the election got through it and made it undergraduates for the fall skills. Third, the contest of President Barack to college,” Smith said. “I and spring semester and provides a financial award Obama. “Rosa sat so MLK figured that I can use my promised $300, $200 and which assists students their could walk. MLK walked knowledge and experiences $100 cash prizes to the college expenses.” so Obama could run.” In to help other young people first, second and third- She believes that his essay, Smith added, finish school and become place winners respectively. its three-fold purpose “Obama ran so that people somebody in life. The office even went as far compliments Dr. King’s could fly.” Smith wants the as extending the deadline attributes as a scholar. “I intertwined that with community to realize that of the competition from Smith decided to serving and how if we all service is more than a its original due date participate in the contest give that message a push or thought. It is an action. of December 2 and all after realizing that his a boost or a lift, we can all He believes that people Andrew Smith, junior, social work, won this year’s MLK that was required of the fellow students would not fly,” Smith said. “The last can deliver his message Holiday Observance essay contest. winners was to attend due to finals. He also saw part of my paper talked by offering out a helping COURTESY OF ANDREW SMITH the Dr. King Holiday the cash prize as ideal, but about how we can do this hand to at least one other Observance on January 12 these were not his only by voting and contacting person. UMSL radio station pulls out the stops for 5th year anniversary

ASHLEY ATKINS Features Editor SEMPA member, Shelecia with somebody who had location. “Mashup” a big event growing and growing McKinney, junior, media experience in that area as “Tis is college. Tis for U-Student Radio, and fve years is really a Te U-Student radio studies, was the one who far as bringing together is when you are supposed but it acts as the kickof milestone for something station at the University brought the rock group local talent.” to open your mind to to a monumental year, that pretty much started of Missouri - St. Louis has “Te Garrisons” into the Eason believes the things that are not just according to Station in a closet in 2004-2005,” decided to ring in the new equation. upcoming “Mashup” to put in front of you by Manager Keith Robinson, Robinson said. spring semester in song. Te event will be be a one-of-a-kind event, MTV and big companies,” senior, information Robinson believes that A “Snowball Mashup” hosted by recording artist praising it for its ability McNew said. “Tese are systems. the “Snowball Mashup” will will take place in the Pilot Penelope Jones, who has to bring diferent forms of independent artists doing “Te week of April 9 will present the campus with House of the Millennium recently joined the U radio music together on one stage their thing. It is a good be our fve-year anniversary something that they have Student Center, January station. Jones is known at UMSL. He does not time to see something here in the Millennium never seen before, resulting 20, from 7 p.m. to 10 for her 2006 collaboration believe that this has ever diferent, something out of Student Center. We started in the achievement of the p.m. Te brainchild of with Mya in “No Matter been done before and hopes the ordinary.” in April 2007 and what we station’s original goal. Mark Lodes “DJ Paradise,” What Tey Say.” She was that it can be re-created on When critics try to were planning to do was “Te students are what senior, political science, the introduced to the idea of other campuss. categorize the event as bring back all the DJs that brought us here. We are event will consist of both hosting after meeting with “I think that it would another “Battle of the have been a part of the funded by student fees and rock and hip-hop acts on student DJ Bryan Eason, be a great cooperative efort Bands,” McNew does radio station for the last I think that it is our job one stage. Te ambitious junior, media studies. on everyone’s part to see if not hesitate to voice fve years.” to entertain the campus event was created for the “It has been hard for we can mix the two and see the “Mashup’s” non- Te entire week will act and inform the campus,” well being of the student us to get artists on our if something good comes competitive drive. Instead, as a reunion week where Robinson said. “We put on body and also allows bills or any of our events from it,” Eason said. he believes it to be an old DJs will be mixing with things that we believe are participating artists to without paying serious SEMPA president Josh artistic vision where artists new DJs (on air), building going to be entertaining to network and promote their money,” Eason said. McNew, junior, media have the freedom to play up to a retrospect on Friday the campus population.” original work. “We just happen to run studies, sees the event as a together and not play April 13 in the Pilot House Te “Snowball Mashup” Each individual act was into each other. It was great way to support local against each other. of the MSC. will be free of charge, so recommended by a U- DJ. an opportunity to work artists in an appropriate Not only is the “Each year, we keep come enjoy the music. FEATURES | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 13 A viral world makes it possible for the student to come out on top DIANNE RIDGEWAY used to photograph and days to weeks depending Staff Writer save material you may need, upon sites. Amazon is a allowing you to access that popular site and of ers a trial Endless options in a f n- information from all of your Amazon Prime membership, gertip world raise choices, devices. which includes free two-day including textbook shop- Despite these techni- shipping to anyone with an ping yet another opportu- cal of erings, a 2010 study .edu email address. Interna- nity for f nancial analysis. done by a California Public tional editions are another When one North American Interest Research Group, or way to save money but can higher education book PIRG, reports that 75 per- take long periods of time for publisher, Pearson, reported cent of students prefer print delivery. prof ts of over seven- rather than digital text- Looking to social media hundred-million dollars in books. Ebay, ecampus.com, and community sites like 2010, how can we f nd the Abebooks and textbook. Craigslist for books is lowest price and best choice com are all places to start another alternative solu- for our learning and budget- the textbook hunt. Other tion. T e best way to ensure ary style? sites like campusbook.com, you are not wasting your Our educational horizon campusbook4less.com and hard earned (or borrowed) is surely expanding with af ordabook.com will shop money on books is to make ebooks and audiobooks and compare prices for sure you actually need them. more easily accessible than you. Even the University of Waiting until required texts ever and the ability to surf Missouri-St. Louis book- are posted, emailing profes- A student searches for books on his list in the UMSL bookstore. the web for the lowest price store has jumped on board sors or even holding of to JARRED GASTREICH / THE CURRENT in seconds. Renting, buying, with comparison shopping hear directly that books you branches to be sent to yours. for 97 dollars would be same price as a lower-end copying and downloading at compare.umslbookstore. will be using can save you Knowing a classmate to bought on textbook.com for used book. Chegg.com is a are all ways to obtain that com. time, money and the hassle share a book with or copy over f fty dollars. T e last book rental company that educational material you T e convenience of pick- of returning any unneeded chapters from is another option for college students of ers free shipping both may or may not be reading ing up your book on cam- books. way to cut or share costs. who plan to sell their books ways and promises to plant this semester. With tools pus puts one example at 97 T e earliest you can start Bookstores can be known at the end of the semester a tree for every book rented. and applications for nearly dollars, while the same book your cheap book search the for high purchase prices is renting. Some college By going completely paper- every technical device, one was found on cheapesttext- more fruitful it will become. and extremely low returns. campuses are implement- less with an e-textbook, can be left feeling a little books.com for 86 dollars Checking the school and lo- Looking to online sites for ing their own rental services opting for a black and white overwhelmed. Androids, and campusbooks4less.com cal libraries can prove to be book resale may prove more while online sites have of- used textbook or renting iPhones, Blackberrys and with a copy for 46 dollars. the most cost- ef cient way benef cial as their quotas fered this option for years. a Chegg.com returnable iPads can all be used for It is important not to forget to prepare for your courses are most likely consider- Campusbookrentals.com book, we seem to be going reading and using our text- about the cost and time and of ers the option to ably higher. T e same book and Alibris.com of er text- a little more green in our ef- books. Even the note taking of shipping ranging from request copies from other found in UMSL’s bookstore books for rent for about the forts to save a little green. software Evernote can be Make this year count; 5 steps towards a succesful resolution SAAD SHAREIFF a day.” also takes the fun out of single day of the year. Split Staff Writer Instead of taking on a life! Take the time to focus up the workout between monstrous task that will on the resolution; do not the days. The holidays are past us wreak havoc on her self- make the resolution fit Rule 5: Be proud of once more and the dawn esteem, McKee is instead your time. Whether it is your resolutions. Whether of a new year is upon us. focusing on one small working out, paying bills it is losing weight or tak- Maybe you would like to thing that will inspire her or driving to class, try to ing a picture a day, be shed some of that holiday to do – or look at – things never rush. proud of the cause. This weight or climb out of differently. Rule 3: Take a break. If little trick will boost your debt. Either way, there are Rule 1: Make an in- you have only five minutes self-esteem and give you 365 days ahead to fully verted to-do list. Instead to spend on a workout for something to talk about accomplish your goals. of writing a massive list of the day, take the day off with new people. Before up taking up year- chores to do, try writing and work out tomorrow. Less than ten percent long tasks, some organiza- a small list of important No one is perfect and ev- of Americans success- tional rules are necessary. things that were accom- eryone needs a break now fully complete their New “I’m doing a 365 photo plished. This little trick and then from the hustle Year’s resolutions. Incred- project,” Erin McKee, works as positive reinforce- and bustle of everyday life. ibly enough, gyms make graduate student, says. “So ment. Also, you can wit- Focusing on a resolution the most money during many people take the op- ness how much work gets can be another addition to the first three months of portunity of a New Year’s accomplished in a single stress, so once in a while the new year. The most resolution to extremes! day! just be lazy. surprising fact, actually, I want to focus on one The number one resolution for 2012 is losing weight Rule 2: Never, ever, Rule 4: Split it up. is that many people give and getting in better shape. small thing this year and rush. Not only does rush- There is no reason for up their resolution before that’s taking a photograph ing exhaust you, but it anyone to work out every January ends! SARAH LOWE / THE CURRENT 14 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | SPORTS Sports Tritons basketball is scoring well, winning numerous games OWEN SHROYER Sports Editor

St. Louis has always been to buckle down and get to Undefeated in conference, a college basketball town. business as their conference and on a nine-game winning Perhaps it is because we do schedule began. Would the streak, the Tritons went on not have an NBA team. team be ready by their f rst the road for two conference Perhaps it is because of all two conference road games games, the f rst of which the nearby teams that have after starting 2-3? Yes; they was at St. Josephs. Again the perennial success, such as easily cruised to two confer- Tritons led for the f nal 35 St. Louis University, Miz- ence road wins by a total of minutes of the game. T e zou and the University of 26 points. story would not be the same Illinois. T is season, though, Winning on the road is in Indianapolis. University there is a new team to talk tough, but doing so can give of Indianapolis led for the about. Even University of a team conf dence and mo- majority of the game, and Missouri - St. Louis alum mentum. T e team respond even by double digits most Frank Cusumano, DJ for to the three-game road win- of the second half. But the 590am, the Press Box, gave ning streak by coming home Tritons showed grit, worked the team a shout-out on his to win three more. T ey beat to tie the game and even got radio show. McKendree, Culver Stockton a two-point lead after a 9-0 T ere was a lot to be ex- and Robert Morris Spring- run in the f nal two-and- cited about heading into the f eld, all by double digits. a-half minutes. With four season. Second-year Head T ey were not just beating seconds left, the Greyhounds Coach Steve Tappmeyer had teams, but trouncing them. Miles Mitchell hit a three- already improved the men’s How did the team respond pointer to give Indianapolis basketball program at UMSL to playing on the road for the win and cap the Tritons drastically in one year, lead- their f rst time in a month? ten-game win streak. ing to perhaps its best season T e team came out f ring During the Triton’s ever. It was certainly the best against Maryville, jumping ten-game win streak, they in terms of conference wins. out to a quick double-digit dominated opponents. T eir But, apparently Tappmeyer lead and working with it for average margin of victory had not even begun to tap the remainder of the half. was 16.5 points. Troy Long into his plan to lead this Maryville slowly chipped has been averaging 20 points team to greatness. away at the lead, but good per game in conference play. Six Flags Fiesta Texas T e Tritons dropped their teams win close games, and T eir hot stretch has led f rst two games, and then when the Tritons needed to them to f rst place in the January 28th and 29th dropped their fourth game hit their free throws in the West division of the Great by 15 points. If you did f nal minutes, it was team Lakes Valley Conference. 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. not know any better, you leader Troy Long, senior, T ey are 6-1 in conference, would have expected another liberal studies, who knocked and 11-4 overall. It has been dismal season for the men’s down four of four free throw, their high shooting percent- basketball team. leading to another Trtion age, .454, that has led to But last year was dif er- win. their high points per game ent. If anything, those games T e Tritons returned to - 74.2. were closer to practice, with their home court for two T e Tritons come home team members still getting a games that they did not lose. for two conference games feel for one another, with an T ey remain undefeated at next: January 19 against unsure rotation, new faces home, having beaten two William Jewell and January everywhere and a second- conference opponents; 79-71 21 against Rockhurst. T is is year coach just trying to over Wisconsin Parkside truly the best men’s basket- f gure out his way around his where they led for the f nal ball team this school has SIX FLAGS and all related indicia are trademarks of Six Flags Theme Parks Inc. ®, TM and © 2012. new team. He f gured it out 35 minutes and 70-61 over ever had, so come out and real quick. Lewis where they never support them as they shoot After starting the season trailed during the f nal 35 for their f rst conference 2-3, the team was ready minutes. championship ever. SPORTS | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 15 1,000 point milestone highlights stellar career for Caitlyn Moody ELI DAINS Staff Writer

The 2011 to 2012 ties on the hardwood are ing as a senior. In soccer, stayed consistent on the team, while keeping her the end of the campaign. season is already a memo- also recognized by her Caitlyn was recognized as court, once again finish- rebounding numbers “We need to keep making rable one for Tritons guard coaches. “Her strength one of the best goalies in ing third on the team in consistent as ever at 3.7 improvements everyday.” Caitlyn Moody, senior, is her shooting - she can the state, proving that her scoring with 9.5 points per game. In the 2010-11 said Moody. physical education. In shoot the three-pointer as talent extended to multiple per game and matching season she scored double After this season, the December 10 game at well as post-up and she has sports. her freshman total of 3.7 digit points in 22 out of Caitlyn’s playing days as home against the Missouri a nice pull-up jumper. She As a freshman at UMSL, rebounds per game. Her 27 games and was named an UMSL Triton will be Baptist Spartans, Moody has developed into a strong Moody started 22 games offensive highlights of a GLVC Academic All- finished. Looking forward, scored a game-high 21 leader for us and has a and finished third on the the season included 29 American for the third she plans to expand upon points to become only the big impact in our point team in scoring with 9.7 points against St. Joseph’s consecutive year. her degree in physical twelfth woman in school production,” Lisa Curliss- points per game. In her University and 27 against This season has thus far education by going to history to eclipse the 1,000 Taylor, head coach, Tritons first season at the col- Missouri Science & Tech- been even more productive graduate school to study career point threshold. womens’ basketball, said of legiate level, she showed nology. As in her freshman than any of the previous exercise physiology. If Over the course of her Moody’s skills. flashes of the athlete that season, she was also named for Caitlyn Moody. Over she approaches life with four-year career at the As a high school athlete, she would become, tally- a GLVC Academic All- the first 13 games she is the same dedication and University of Missouri – Caitlyn played basketball ing two 20-point outings, American. averaging 14.4 points and tenacity that she brings St. Louis she has certainly and soccer at Glenwood while shooting a team best Last season, as a junior, 5.1 rebounds per game, to the game of basketball, worked hard to earn her High School in Chatham, .867 from the free throw Caitlyn took a huge step both of which would her future off of the court place in the record books. Illinois. As a basketball line. She was also a Great forward on the court. be career bests. Moving should be just as successful On the court, Cait- player, she set the school Lakes Valley Conference She started all 27 games forward Moody expects as her life on it. We here lyn describes herself as record for blocked shots, Academic All-American and improved her scor- the team, which currently at UMSL wish her all the an “aggressive, versatile with a career total of 60 selection. ing output to 13.9 points sits at 6-8 on the season to best and thank her for her scorer.” Moody’s abili- and led the league in scor- As a sophomore, Caitlyn per game, leading the have a winning record by powerful legacy. Lady Tritons basketball season recapped, look ahead

LEON DEVANCE Staff Writer

Under head coach Lisa and six rebounds, respec- their opposing teams in throws a game, 238-338. points and six rebounds, senior Normeka Holder, Curliss-Taylor, the Univer- tively, as they lost on the assists, 187 to 196, an aver- T e biggest contributing led the way against the Fly- senior, sociology, to a foot sity of Missouri - St. Louis road 77-56 to St. Joseph’s age of 13.4 to 14 assists per factor in the Tritons’ cur- ers. T e Tritons controlled injury before the 2011- Tritons women’s basket- in conference play. game. T e Tritons out-re- rent 6-8 record is the con- the glass as they collected 2012 season began. ball team has been known T e f ve key statistics to bound at 40.1 per game to stant occurrence of injuries, 46 rebounds to the Flyers’ Curliss-Taylor said the strictly as a defensive focus on are the scoring 36.8 by opposing teams. which continues to plague 24. T e Tritons conducted Tritons will follow the powerhouse, pressuring op- dif erence as the Tritons T e Tritons shoot .310, the team, af ecting depth better of ensive execution senior leadership of Rob- ponents to create turnovers average 64.2 points per and hit 5.1 three-point on the roster and forcing as they dished out 11 assists inson, Moody and Kelly and opportunities for easy game compared to their shots per gam. T e Tri- the Tritons to reach down and hit 44 percent from Carter, senior, elementary lay ups. opponents’ average of 69.4. tons’ opponents are less to the end of the bench. the three-point line in the education. T e Tritons started the And the Tritons have been dependant on the outside “We are still nursing f rst half, then made 66.7 “(Caitlyn) Moody is our 2011-2012 season with outscored in the f rst half as they have connected on nagging and new injuries percent in the second half. most consistent free-throw an impressive 3-1 record. quite often. T e opponents 72 three-pointers on 223 alike. So we have to go T e Tritons connected on shooter…she gets our of- Now at 6-8, the Tritons up the pressure on the Tri- attempts, an average of deeper into our bench each 87.5 percent of their free- fense in the f ow. Moody begin the Great Lakes Val- tons and outscored them in 5.1 per game. T e Tritons game,” Curliss-Taylor said. throws. and Robinson are our team ley Conference season as the second half, as well. have connected for .400 But despite the injuries, While the Tritons captains as well as Carter,” the last-place team in the T e Tritons average three percent of f eld goals on the Tritons of ered evidence will never abandon their Curliss-Taylor said. Western Division, at 1-5 in turnovers more than their 335-838 shots compared that they are not done yet defensive DNA, injuries Curliss-Taylor insisted the conference. Devonna opponents. T e Tritons to the opponents’ 331-790 as they defeated the Lewis were a factor in the Tritons’ that the Tritons will face Smith, junior, sociology, have stolen the ball 100 for 419 f eld goal percent. Flyers 67-49 Saturday at 10-17 record last season. tough competition as the and Kiki Robinson, senior, times this season, an aver- T e Tritons shoot only .636 home on the Chuck Smith Injuries comprised against Great Lakes Valley Confer- criminal justice, were the age of 7.1 times a game from the free throw line court. T e Tritons’ dynamic the Tritons yet again in ence continues. “Everyone only highlights for the compared to the opponents’ for an 11.9 average a game, duo of Kiki Robinson, 12 the of -season as Samantha in this conference is tough. Tritons with their double- 125 steals against them, an 166-261, compared to the points and 14 rebounds Swarts, freshmen, criminol- T ere aren’t any easy games double 19 points and 20 average of 8.9 a game. T e opponents’ .704 percent- and Caitlyn Moody, senior, ogy, was lost with a knee in our conference,” Curliss- rebounds and 10 points Tritons are slightly behind age for an average 17 free physical education, 15 injury and Jennings High Taylor said. www.thecurrent-online.com 16 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | OPINIONS Point/Counterpoint

Should twelve year-old blogger be allowed celebrity exposure online? Twelve year-old blogger is Blogging is not necessarily overexposed on celebrity site an age-dependent activity

Intelligent and witty twelve Foster illustrated her youthful Now twelve year-old Foster How many of us remem- Mikaela Foster is the rounds a twelve year-old writ- year-old Mikaela Foster, recklessness in the dozens of is a role model. She is a pseudo- ber what it’s like to be a 12 youngest contributor to Hello ing for a known blog is how heavily-featured on Zooey pictures she posts of herself and public fgure at the very least, year-old? Running around Giggles. Having written a could her parents let her do Deschanel’s women’s enter- in mentioning the name of a set up on Deschanel’s blog to outside, playing games with the grand total of 10 articles for that? Simple. Mikaela’s mother tainment website and blog restaurant close to her house, serve as inspiration to other neighbors while trying to fnd the site, she is putting in simple is a writer. Publishing poetry, Hellogiggles.com, is a prime making it too easy for comfort girls. Instead of looking up to our way through what is sup- insights on such things as mu- writing hit songs for singer walking, talking, tweeting and for any unwelcome visitor to accomplished, adult women posed to be some of the most sic, sickness, I Heart Boobies Michael Buble and running posting example of overexpo- fnd her. In her naiveté, Foster like the frst lady, lawyers or awkward times of our lives. bracelets and even the Duggar her own craft blog. sure on the internet. has unintentionally created an teachers, Foster’s blog readers Middle School. family. It’s obvious that someone is Foster’s blog posts covered a unsafe environment for herself. will look to her, a peer. Foster Well, one little girl is fnding Mikaela has already broken editing Mikaela’s blog. Te sen- myriad of things that would be Tis is where responsible is a smart kid. She has written her way through the muck out by posting on her own tences seem too well-rounded important to a twelve year-old adults, like Foster’s parents, or successfully about the topics and mess of social pressure and Tumblr page (cleverly titled and thought-out at times to girl, like dating, the movie even Deschanel and those who that would interest a twelve self-awareness by blogging, and tweenage-wasteland) and also truly be from the mind of a 12 “Mean Girls,” how annoying run her website should step in year-old girl, but kids need it just happens to be on a site openly using Twitter. It’s not year-old. Te obvious solution her parents are and hair color. with the sadly underrepresent- role models of a more mature that is known across the United like blogging is a step in a new for such a thing would be that Foster has displayed an obvious ed mindset that enough can be caliber than Foster. States and is controlled by the direction. Mikaela’s mother is editing natural talent for writing and enough and revealing some- Overexposing online read- delightfully adorable Zooey Childlike knowledge of the them. A writer who knows her she appears to love it judging times highly personal public ers to the topics and limited Deschanel (try the movie Elf, world is truly insightful. She own daughter’s mind and per- by the sheer number and size of posts made by child are too, understanding of a twelve year- the tv show New Girl, and tells us to appreciate what we sonality. It seems appropriate. posts on her Hellogiggles.com too much. Tough remarkably old unintentionally distracts the band She & Him). Te have and give to others when And the opportunities this blog. Tis does not include articulate and mature, a child them from focusing on mate- website, called Hello Giggles, she talks about when her dad child has been handed at such a the probably numerous posts is what Foster is. She even de- rial that is mature and could be is geared towards ‘intelligent is in the hospital with cancer. young age are astonishing. She on the Tumblr and Twitter picted herself next to a stufed more benefcial. While Foster, women’ who are looking for She tells us that we delve too is already being talked about. If accounts Foster announced she Brobee, the green, fuzzy “Yo like everyone, should enjoy free an entertainment site that isn’t far into the dating scene when she wants to be a writer in the has at the top of her blog, invit- Gabba Gabba!” character. Any speech, it is dangerous for her flled with fart jokes and one- discussing if she’s old enough to future, she has already found ing all of the strangers who visit owner of a Brobee is too im- and silly for everyone else for night stand stories. have a boyfriend. her way. If she wants to do the public website to join. mature for public blogging. In- her to have massive exposure But the debate here is A good portion of the anything else, she has already Foster is far too plugged in tervention is needed to prevent on a celebrity blog site. Foster whether we live in a time where American population can learn been given a great chance to for a twelve year-old, a topic Foster from posting something should be published only on it is acceptable for a 12 year-old from this little twelve year-old prove what she can do. Who that she even jokingly covers she will ultimately regret and it private websites where she can girl to be posting articles of girl who is sharing thoughts wouldn’t want to take another on her blog. Tough she ap- is a perverse refection on our safely share only with friends. life, love and happiness on the that really aren’t so deep and chance on this adorable little pears intelligent, Foster is, at narcissistic, exhibitionist society Ultimately, public blog spots internet. Te answer for this aren’t so profound. Simple girl? twelve, too young by yards to that what once were personal should be occupied by mature, question is yes, we do. We live lessons that she may just be While the idea of a 12 year- predict the consequences of thoughts and feelings meant ethical writers, the likes of in an age where this child isn’t learning right now in her life, old blogger may seem a little her actions, an ability that psy- for a diary with a lock and key which Foster may well grow going to have to go a day with- that shouldn’t be so far lost in weird, it’s a good thing. She is chologists have said becomes hidden under a pillow are now into. Until then, she needs to out some sort of technological the hustle and bustle of the helping others, her mother ap- fully honed sometime when perfectly commonplace, fair be better observed and limited advantage, so why not let her grown-up world. proves and she is setting herself people reach their twenties. game for a public blog. by her parents. use it? Te biggest issue that sur- up for success in the world. OPINIONS | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 17 Opinions OUR OPINION DEFINING MOMENTS Google’s driverless car: our ride ‘Happy New Year!’ given scope into a bleak, dangerous future and definition for January 2012

It is like a bad gag in an vehicle, such as how quickly syndrome. Te ball drops in Times Of course, all resolutions old movie: there’s a kid in the Google or the automobile Now there are some Square. “Happy New Year!” do not go to pot. Someone, back seat riding along a busy industry would move on benefts, real benefts, not just they shout, and then people if not you, will lose twenty highway when he notices that from cars to say, semi-trucks. “oh I can use my commute have to kiss. People have pounds, get an “A,” be there is no one driving the car Charming as Optimus Prime time to read or work,” when to kiss someone to ring in promoted or buy a new car. next to them. Te sighting is, we don’t actually want him really that time will probably the New Year. It could be Tose people, the lucky res- is immediately followed by a rollin’ down our highways be spent playing Words with someone they love, like, olution achievers, gambled double-take, a dropped jaw and driverless semis would Friends or updating Facebook hate or do not even know. on New Year’s Eve when and pointing at it in hopes put a lot of people out of statuses. If cars drive them- And there is not necessarily they made their resolutions, that other people see it as work. Other thoughts involve selves, there is less room for anything happy about this just the same way the rest well. Well, best warn your taxi, shuttle and metro bus human error. Highways can kiss. Tere is something did. Everyone who made a kids because Google intends drivers. Countless jobs would have smaller lanes and thus obligatory about it, and the resolution gambled because to make the driverless car a fall before the robot car and more of them to ease conges- kiss could be with the sweet they hoped to win. And, Hali Flintrop reality. what looks innocent enough tion. Te driverless car can powder-smelling widowed really, every year, everyone re-made. Tere are difering ideas in a Youtube video becomes a drive itself home after it has aunt you happen to be sit- could best their resolution. In reality, time is a as to what the cars would be creature with the Jaws of Life dropped of its person, there- ting next to on the couch Failures of the past year fail continuum, and there is no used for initially. An inven- for teeth to the thousands it fore reducing the need for or a sad, single friend des- to matter as the world turns rational diference between tion of this magnitude must puts out of work. A person garages. Another interesting perate for human contact - the inch that makes the dif- New Year’s Eve and any be introduced slowly - most should not let idealism steal result would be that because any human contact. Kissing ference between 2011 and other time. Tere could agree on that. One report the dinner of another’s table. human error is reduced to the wrong person is a ter- 2012, and it is a time to not possibly be legitimate says guided tours and another Now we are not against next to nothing, in theory we rible way to start anything, set a hopeful goal. Te fate cause to believe that a goal indicates the more altruistic: technology here. Tings would collectively spend less let alone a whole year. But of that goal is uncertain, set while ringing in the aiding elderly people and should move forward, but money. tradition is everything, so but it is still best to set one New Year is more likely those with limited mobil- at a steady pace that allows We would pay less in in- anything goes. anyway. to be achieved than a goal ity: good options to get the time to consider possible surance and since the number Resolutions are made, “Experts,” whoever they set at any other plain old driverless car into the public repercussions and how to of accidents would conceiv- which means unhappy are, say it is always best to time, right? Except for eye so it can begin to gain the resolve them. Why leap of a ably drop, we wouldn’t have sacrifces are promised for have a goal. Tey say that hope. New Year’s Eve is general populace’s trust. Con- clif before you know if there to replace cars as often. Is it happy results. Cheesecake people’s minds function the only time in the whole sidering our exposure to mov- are rocks in the water below? a good thing? For lives, yes. is unhappily sacrifced for best when they have an year that anyone is willing ies like Te Terminator, iRo- Our general feeling toward For young, accident-prone looking happy in a string endpoint in mind, and to pucker their lips with bot, and Te Matrix, it is easy the driverless car is that it teenagers, it is - but for the bikini come summer, sleep that success builds self- reckless abandon to receive to understand why we might will only promote laziness people who make their living is unhappily sacrifced in esteem. So why not set a a kiss from whoever is the be gun-shy of a car that can and stagnation. Some people making cars in factories, hopes of the happy day that goal? It is not like failing closest. Tere is a naïve, drive itsself. As of right now, might not value driving as a for the dealerships and the the big promotion or best to accomplish a New Year’s silly, genuine and absolutely the actual driverless car has legitimate stimulant to the automobile-makers, not so grade is yours, and spare Resolution will make for an delicious hope that our lips driven about 1,000 miles in mind but there are many much. It is hard to imagine cash for concert tickets unhappy year or the total will connect with someone cities and on highways with many people who receive a world in which we are all or Pabst Blue Ribbon is decimation of self-esteem. wonderful as the old year no problems. Te car drove great satisfaction from the chaufeured, but it might be unhappily sacrifced for So many people resolve kisses the New Year hello. itself through the famously action and have a great love just around the corner. the happy day the down something on New Year’s It may be a good kiss, it winding and sloping roads of for the machine they control. Unsigned editorials refect payment on the shiny new Eve, despite their resolution may not. Te optimism is San Francisco. Most recently, It is an extension of them the majority viewpoint of Te car becomes afordable. success rate, that it seems the important part, and the state of Nevada began and removing their ability to Current’s Editorial Board: Oh how blissfully naïve pretty safe to say that self- just like with resolutions, considering it. weave in and out of trafc Matthew Poposky, Minho Jung, to make resolutions, for esteem has a pretty quick there will be winners and Tere are a lot of things or change their destination Ashley Atkins, Cate Marquis, resolutions are the promise rebound rate. No matter losers. New Year is “happy” to consider when thinking on a whim might leave some Jennifer Meahan, Jeremy of disappointment to come how it feels in March when because of goals, kisses and about an “autonomous” with a sort of phantom-limb Zschau and Janaca Scherer. when they lay bleeding in dead resolution carnage is optimism. If none of that the middle of life’s road the reason for the world’s works out, there is always come March or so. No woe, when the next year 2013, 14, 15, 16… Happy What do you think? one is as happy in March rolls around resolve is New Year! as they are at midnight on reincarnated. Hope feels Hali Flintrop is the News www.thecurrent-online.com. New Year’s Eve, at the mo- natural and happy, and Editor and a columnist can- ment of the kiss. resolutions are made and didate for Te Current. 18 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | OPINIONS SCIENCE MATTERS MAD WORLD Media coverage of Keystone pipe- Postmortem bullying showcases line shows science reporting flaws the worst the internet has to offer

Last year, Congress created debate over how many jobs It’s safe to say that suicide point? Tat’s assuming, how- a showdown over attaching it may or may not be created isn’t usually considered ever, that social commentary approval of a 1,700-mile oil or focus on the issues role an amusing topic, unless is as much of a factor in pipeline from Canada to Texas in some kind of political perhaps in the hands of a tal- their actions as some claim. to legislation extending the stand-of between the Obama ented comedian. Tose who Without the threat of payroll tax cut. administration and Congress have taken to the internet re- social retribution, unpopular Judging from comments or between Obama and envi- cently to mock the death of attitudes can thrive on the on the internet, it appears ronmental groups. 15 year-old Amanda Cum- internet, where even the a sizable portion of the But what is left out of this mings are neither talented most heinous viewpoints American public thinks that picture is the most important nor funny, but represent a can fnd support and even the debate over TransCanada’s aspect of the debate, the one disturbingly unapologetic applause. When criticized Keystone XL oil pipeline that matters most in terms Cate Marquis group whose antics have by the media, those being Sharon Pruitt is about jobs or oil prices. of what the public needs to repeatedly crossed the line. challenged claim that their Tat conclusion misses the know to form an informed Converting it into crude oil Two days after Christmas, free speech is being infringed the sociopathic nature in real topic at the heart of this opinion on it. Namely, the requires enormous quanti- Cummings stepped in front upon; they do so with a level those who were previously issue, oil production from tar reasons behind the opposition: ties of water and natural gas of a bus with a suicide note of self-righteous indignation just mean-spirited and cyni- sands, but much of the blame the real costs of oil production and it creates large amounts in her pocket. She died six and fury that can only exist cal. It can serve as a vacuum, for that mistaken impression from tar sands. of carbon dioxide and waste days later from her injuries. online, where one can live in sucking out all of the empa- is how the subject has been First, let us look at what material. Extracting oil from Te online taunting that fol- a nearly untouchable bubble thy that many would at least covered by the news media in the pipeline is. Since this tar sands produces 82 percent lowed her death began with of unwavering moral superi- pretend to possess in real-life this country. is Canadian oil, building more greenhouse gas emis- the forum 4chan.org, whose ority. Te resulting adoption situations. Te power and Te news media often the pipeline will not reduce sions than conventional users have been criticized of the oppressed victim role privilege of anonymity covers science and environ- United States energy depen- oil production and releases in the past for taking their by those who initially began brings out the best and the mental stories the same way dence on Middle Eastern more mercury and arsenic. mob-like online jeering to a the cycle in the frst place is worst in people, the bravery it covers political or social oil or reduce prices at U.S. Te process also produces place of real-life harassment. laughable and showcases the and the cowardice. With an- issues stories. Reports present pumps. Tis is a Canadian an exceptional dirty kind of Users of the site gathered supreme obliviousness of the onymity comes a fearlessness a summary of the issue, with enterprise, carrying petroleum petroleum. on the Facebook memorial most narcissistic among us. that brings out whatever the two equally-presented, oppos- from Alberta, Canada to the Te difculty in extract- page created in Cummings’s Part of the problem is one behind the virtual mask ing viewpoints. However, this Texas coast, intended solely ing oil from this natural honor to openly mock that many today live in a isn’t brave enough to reveal seemingly balanced approach for export overseas. It will not asphalt had previously made both Amanda and those society where the internet in the “real” world, where actually is often a disservice be refned or sold here. Jobs it prohibitively expensive but who mourn her, citing the afords us an amount of consequences exist and to readers when covering will be created in building rising oil prices have made it ridiculousness of Facebook distance from the “real everything isn’t a joke, no science, because it fails to it but few will be needed to tempting for oil companies. memorials as justifcation world.” Someone can type matter how much they think give a complete picture of the maintain it. We can create an A pipeline for export will ac- for their actions. Tose and send words out into the it should be. Would these science underlying the topic. equal number of construction celerate its production. involved pose as enlightened limitless void of the internet people be so quick to openly Frequently it gives the illusion jobs with any number of more As the world uses up easily- critics of society in order to with no real thought as to mock the death of a teenage there are two equally valid useful projects. obtained oil, it is forced to justify their crass behavior, the actual real-life repercus- girl in the physical presence arguments, when that is not Ten, there is what this choose between more costly, painting their actions as sions of their actions because of her loved ones? Judging always the case. project means for a livable less accessible oil sources, like being more thoughtful than it has no bearing on their by the tendency of many of A case in point is the cur- planet. Tis oil comes not tar sands, or switching to they most likely are. While day-to-day personal lives. them to go by a pseudonym rent debate over the Keystone from an ordinary oil feld but other energy sources. As oil the merits and sincerity of It’s this disconnect from im- whenever they’re ofcially XL oil pipeline. TransCanada’s from a source once considered costs rise, alternatives become expressing grief in a manner mediate reality that leads to quoted in the media, it’s a pipeline is intended to carry so costly, so unproftable and more economically attractive. that’s simultaneously social overzealous online shopping, safe bet that many wouldn’t. Canadian oil from tar sands so dirty that is was inconceiv- Tose other energy sources yet disconnected has been out-of-hand Facebook fghts, Tat’s the point where the in Alberta to a Texas port able to ever consider it as a would then become even debated, at what point is it and shameful behavior such joke stops being funny. on the gulf of Mexico, for source: tar sands. cheaper due to efciencies and worth hurting those who are as this. Sharon Pruitt is a colum- export to other nations. While Tar sands are a mix of clay, economies of scale. already grieving the loss of Tere’s something about nist and staf writer for Te news media report that there sand, water, and bitumen. Tar sands are a costly a loved one just to make a the internet that brings out Current. is strong opposition from Bitumen is also known as source for oil and the com- environmentalists and many asphalt or tar, a naturally-oc- plete picture of the costs to scientists, although why they curring, thick, smelly, viscous all of us should be the real are opposed is never explored. material. Tis is not liquid issue the news media focuses On the other side, the media pumped from the ground. on when reporting on the WHAT DO YOU THINK? reports that business interests Tar sands are strip-mined and Keystone pipeline. favor it and claim it would melted to release its oil or it is Cate Marquis is Arts and Let us know at www.thecurrent-online.com create jobs. Media coverage extracted by injecting steam at Entertainment Editor and a then typically goes into a high pressure. columnist for Te Current. HOROSCOPES | | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | JANUARY 17, 2012 | The Current | 19 CURRENT HOROSCOPES by The Inane Collective altered by: Horoscopes The Most Recent Intern

CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES ARIES (DEC. 23 - JAN. 20) (JAN. 21 - FEB. 19) (FEB. 20 - MARCH 20) (MARCH 21 - APRIL 20) So, too much winter fun led When people talk to you, they Find pleasure in the simple How much did you actually to a terrible case of pneumo- tend to use baby voices and things this week. Enjoy a night accomplish over winter break? nia, eh? Remember to take all tell you just how beautiful you out under the stars. Dance How much more could you of your medicine and that, for are. Keep in mind that while when nobody is watching. have accomplished had you future reference, swimming in these compliments may be Throw a frisbee with your dog. not sat around drinking beer a lake at two in the morning plentiful now, personality is Just remember a coat for the and watching reruns? Why are during snow is not smart. still key in the long run. outdoor activities. you taking my advice?

TAURUS GEMINI CANCER LEO (APRIL 21 - MAY 21) (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) (JUNE 22 - JULY 22) (JULY 23 - AUG. 21) Late night visits to Memebase Fast cars and trips to bars That roaring sound you keep The start of a new semester and Cracked may be benefi cial are hallmarks of the rich and hearing in the middle of the means the start of a new you. to your sanity, but they have famous. Unfortunately, this is night is not a monster, nor is Give up old vices, start living a been seriously impeding your not a future which anybody it your overactive metabolism. healthier lifestyle and do not ability to function when sur- sees for you, so starting a real Your home is actually located take no for an answer. Not even rounded by other people. Con- savings account this week will right next to a stealthed mili- from the rude attendants at sider lowering your dosage. be benefi cial. tary base. Investigate. Subway. Get those sammiches!

LIBRA VIRGO SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS (SEPT. 24 - OCT. 23) OV EC (AUG. 22 - SEPT. 23) (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) (N . 23 - D . 22) Moments like this only come once Chaos really is underrated, This week, somebody will inten- As more and more of the in a lifetime, so be sure to pursue don’t you think? Honestly, all tionally lock you out of the rest- world around you begins to of this balance stuff is pretty fall into patterns of idiocy and this opportunity with absolute dedi- room at the most inconvenient ridiculous and it never really moment imaginable. In order conformity, remember that one cation. Do not let anything sideline pays off in the long run. True to combat this, be sure to eat day, their works will amount your passions and be sure to be anarchy is the only way to... and drink sparingly and use the to nothing and yours will pay home by eleven: mother’s orders. wait...Libra...right...later! facilities before leaving home. off. Just saying.

After all is read and done, Please Recycle!

-Your friends at The Current 20 | The Current | JANUARY 17, 2012 | WWW.THECURRENT-ONLINE.COM | | COMICS Comics Simply Beagle by Karlee Sellars

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