The Rice Thresher | Wednesday, January 17, 2024 by The Rice Thresher

VOLUME 108, ISSUE NO. 15 | STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916 | RICETHRESHER.ORG | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

AHITAGNI DAS / THRESHER Hayv Kahraman’s solo exhibit, titled “The Foreign in Us,” debuted at the Moody Center for the Arts Jan. 12. Kahraman’s art is centered in her refugee identity and explores themes of isolation and migration.

Moody’s new exhibit examines ‘The Foreign in Us’ THOMAS PICKELL

FOR THE THRESHER

Hayv Kahraman’s solo exhibit, “The Foreign in Us,” debuted at the Moody Center for the Arts Jan. 12. Consisting of over 40 drawings and paintings, the newest exhibit tackles themes of identity and belonging, framed through Kahraman’s personal experience as a refugee grappling with themes of isolation, migration, colonization and fear. Kahraman, an Iraqi-Kurdish artist, has been featured in numerous American and European museums. Forced to flee from her home at a young age due to the Gulf War, Kahraman became intimately familiar with the struggles of isolation and non-belonging that populate her works. These themes permeate over two decades of works using paintings, drawings and various other media through which she

spreads her message. Frauke Josenhans, a curator at the Moody, said that acquisition and organization of the collection began several years ago. Pieces have been borrowed from numerous collections in an effort to convey Kahraman’s message of overcoming cultural isolation and adaptation. “She went through … trying to assimilate, to adapt. It was a very violent experience for her that stayed with her,” Josenhans said. “That experience of displacement [is] certainly something a lot of people can relate to.” In the central gallery, four large paintings are prominently displayed. Within them, human figures are depicted in vulnerable positions. Layered atop these figures are smatterings of Ebru, a Turkish marbling technique, and the backgrounds are enhanced with intricate geometric patterns.

MARIA MORKAS

ASST. NEWS EDITOR

Although [Kahraman’s] experience is extremely personal and it’s hard for someone to understand who didn’t go through the same experience of being a refugee, she presents this experience through the human body. Frauke Josenhans

CURATOR AT THE MOODY

Rice women’s basketball enjoying early success in first AAC season ANDERSEN PICKARD

ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Changing conferences and playing a home game in a different arena aren’t easy for any team, but Rice women’s basketball has prevailed through this adversity, kicking off the new year with a 3-1 run in the American Athletic Conference. The Owls made their AAC debut Jan. 3, using a big third quarter to fuel their victory over Wichita State University. Sophomore Dominique Ennis led the way with 17 points, four rebounds and four steals while sinking four of 10 three-point attempts. This game was played at the University of Houston’s Fertitta Center after Rice’s venue, Tudor Fieldhouse, sustained water damage during a construction mishap. Rice went on the road Jan. 7, taking down the Southern Methodist University Mustangs. The Owls carried a 31-23 lead into the second half and managed to win by two points after SMU’s comeback attempt fell just short. The Owls returned to Tudor Jan. 11

Community members gather to honor MLK Jr.

against the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, which ranked atop the standings with a 3-0 conference record at the time. Faced with an opportunity to become the AAC’s top team, Rice faltered. They led by two points at halftime but were ultimately outscored in the second half, falling to Charlotte 61-54. Missed opportunities from beyond the arc spelled disaster for Rice in their first AAC loss as the starting lineup went 0-for13 from three. Ennis’ struggles headlined a challenging night for the Owls as she missed six threes herself while being held to three rebounds and zero assists. She and fifth-year teammate Destiny Jackson each finished with 12 points while junior Malia Fisher added 14.

SEE BASKETBALL PAGE 10 COURTESY RICE ATHLETICS Fifth-year guard Destiny Jackson shoots during Rice’s Jan. 11 game against the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. The Owls lost 61-54.

SEE MOODY PAGE 8

The Rice Black Men’s Association and Multicultural Community Relations hosted a vigil to honor and celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. Jan. 14. Titled “How far have we come?” the event included musical performances, a poetry reading, remarks from President Reginald DesRoches and a keynote address by Kiese Laymon, Libbie Shearn Moody Professor of Creative Writing and English and author of “Heavy: An American Memoir.” The vigil also included a performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Kiana Day Williams, “Lord, How Come Me Here?” by Demetrious Sampson of the Houston Opera and a poetry reading by Tamaz Young, a Wiess College junior. While DesRoches introduced the keynote speaker, he shared a story about Rice’s first Black graduate, Raymond Johnson, whom he met last year in the fall. “It was certainly a very different Rice in 1970. [It] was apparent to me that Dr. Johnson was resilient. He was committed to excellence and extremely courageous — attributes that are as important today as they were 50 years ago when Dr. Johnson was on campus,” DesRoches said. “He opened the doors for others who would follow him in years and decades to come, decades when progress was too slow, and at times extremely painful. “Martin Luther King Jr. encouraged the masses to fight for civil rights; he promoted equality,” DesRoches continued. “He encouraged nonviolent activism, and he fought through education and awareness. His words have never been more important than today given the challenges facing our nation, and the world. His legacy continues to inspire people across the globe.” During his speech, Laymon said

SEE MLK VIGIL PAGE 2

2 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

THE RICE THRESHER

FROM FRONT PAGE

MLK VIGIL

“I believe that the height of human being in our country can be the ability that King’s words have the “power to to atone, to restore, to share and build, learn and destroy,” and they to vigorously admit when we have should not simply be brought out every succumb[ed] to evil,” Laymon said. January during the holiday. President of Rice Black Men’s “In 2023, according to the Senate Association Balla Sanogo, a McMurtry Joint Economic Committee, white College senior, said the organization families have 10.3 times more wanted to host an event that was household wealth than Black families both powerful and entertaining, so … America, the idea and the nation, has they reached out to Houston-based chosen not only Black performers who it wants to share their to be, but also experiences and who it refuses reflect on how far to become,” I believe that the height they’ve come. Laymon said. of human being in our Doyin Aderele, “The nation is country can be the ability who attended the as proud of its vigil, said she s e t t l e r- co l o n i a l to atone, to restore, to appreciated the history and share and to vigorously event’s curation precedent, as has admit when we have of speakers and ever been. The performances. succumb[ed] to evil. nation is as proud Aderele, a Sid of its ability to Kiese Laymon Richardson murder, as it’s LIBBIE SHEARN MOODY PROFESSOR College senior, ever been. And OF CREATIVE WRITING AND said one of her judging by who ENGLISH favorite speakers the majority of was Laymon, who white Americans want to preside over is also one of her favorite professors this nation, the nation is absolutely and writers. utterly proud of its greed.” “I really admire how [Laymon] Despite this, Laymon said he refuses acknowledges how our negative to believe that individuals in America feelings really impact us as people. He are represented by their ability to said this specific line about how evil “kill, incarcerate or own people most can feel powerful at times, even when efficiently.” you don’t intend for it to be,” Aderele

said. “Especially in the world we live in now, it’s important to acknowledge how our different types of emotions shape who we are as people, and how we acknowledge those things and work to do better.” Sanogo said he connected with Laymon’s speech and enjoyed Sampson’s performance the most. “I think for [Laymon], the story that he told was something that I can personally relate to with my own experiences, with not only the police but the worst of the white folks in America,” Sanogo said. “[Sampson’s performance was] my first time witnessing an opera singer, and it definitely was a lot more than I was expecting.”

MARK MUNYI / THRESHER

SAS results reflect need for OC housing and finance resources IVANA HSYUNG

FOR THE THRESHER The Student Association implemented changes to the Survey of All Students, including questions that collect off-campus housing data and gauge student sentiment on readiness toward personal finances and off-campus housing. The SAS is a questionnaire administered to all students each semester and is required to be completed prior to course registration. SA President Solomon Ni said that since his time at Rice, the SA section of the SAS has remained mostly unchanged. “This year is the year with the most major changes,” Ni, a Jones College junior, said, primarily in the form of additional questions. However, some undergraduate students haven’t noticed many changes. “When I take the SAS I usually get through it as fast as I can so I can register for my classes … I honestly haven’t noticed any changes,” Jacob Coyle, a Will Rice College senior, said. Some of the SA’s additional questions aim to collect data for collaborative projects. Results from one such question, “in order to better inform potential future shuttle stops, please indicate the cross streets closest to your off-campus residence,” will be used to develop off-campus population heat maps in conjunction with graduate student data provided by the Graduate Student Association. “[GSA] can pull [graduate student] addresses, we can’t. So we have to survey students,” Ni said. The heat map will help determine off-campus shuttle routes that may best serve the off-campus population, he added. Associate Vice President for Campus Services and Sustainability Rick Mello said that Rice is looking forward to providing shuttle service to off-campus students.

Student response concerning “We are very interested in any data, perspective or feedback that can help our preparedness leans toward the negative, Campus Services team better understand and Ni said that this data will allow the the needs of our students as we look to SA to begin collaborating with the General Counsel’s Office to explore future help students get initiatives that more information positively impacts about how to sign a our student’s We’re young adults, lease. experience,” Mello fresh out of high school. Coyle said he wrote in an email to Figuring out renting your saw a need for more the Thresher. university resources A c c o r d i n g own apartment and stuff regarding offto Mello, Rice can be really daunting campus housing. Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n for 18, 19-year-olds, so I “We’re young is aiming to adults, fresh out implement these think providing resources of high school. updated shuttle from [the] university on routes sometime navigating that stuff would Figuring out renting your own apartment “early to mid [spring just be super great. and stuff can be 2024] semester.” really daunting for Other questions Jacob Coyle 18, 19-year-olds, so relating to off- WILL RICE COLLEGE SENIOR I think providing campus housing include asking students to indicate resources from [the] university on navigating agreement or disagreement with phrases that stuff would just be super great,” Coyle such as “it is easy to find off-campus said. The SA also added questions assessing housing” and “signing a lease is a clear interest toward educational opportunities process, and I have no questions about it.”

for personal finance. Ni said that the SA “want[s] to work with the stakeholders on campus, whether that’s the business school or the office of student success.” Many students indicated that they wanted to learn more about tax filing through the question’s write-in option. “There’s a lot of universities and colleges that have, either through their student government or the campus, tax preparers on campus,” Ni said. “We can also work with other organizations on campus to see if people would be interested in [becoming] a certified tax preparer through the IRS, and fill out really basic, simple taxes for people.” Ni added that this is particularly relevant for those on financial aid, since you have to report any financial aid you receive on your taxes. From an administrative standpoint, “this semester will serve as a pilot to gather data and feedback to determine how we can best serve our students moving forward,” Mello wrote. For Coyle, though, filling out the survey is a different story. “When I graduate, I will fill it out,” Coyle said. “I promise.”

It is easy to find off-campus housing

Strongly disagree Disagree

Signing a lease is a clear process and I have no questions about it

Neutral Agree Strongly agree

Given the option of living on campus, I would choose to live off-campus I feel well equipped to live off-campus

0.0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1.0

IVANA HSYUNG / THRESHER DATA FROM SURVEY OF ALL STUDENTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 • 3

NEWS

Students forge ahead in blacksmithing competition AMY LI

THRESHER STAFF Jackson Hughes, Nathan Yun, George Lyu, Matt Moore and Balla Sanogo forged a sword to enter the Bladesmithing Competition hosted by the Minerals, Metals & Materials Society for their capstone projects. The sword features a high carbon steel blade, an aluminum owl head for the pommel, a handle made from epoxy resin embedded with carbon fiber and aluminum wings for the hand guard. Lyu, a Will Rice College senior, said that many of these features were designed as a homage to Rice’s mascot and/or the materials science and nanoengineering department’s history with carbon-related research. “One thing that was consistent through the brainstorming was having a strong sense of Rice pride,” Lyu said. “A lot of those aesthetic choices were just because we wanted to bring out the Rice elements for it.” Participating in the biennial competition is offered as a senior design project by the MSNE department. This is the first year that multiple departments were represented in the sword forging team, according to Ricardo Zednik, a professor in the practice for the MSNE department and one of the

One of my biggest takeaways was that it’s a lot easier to try something new than I thought it was... it turns out just by doing research, asking questions, asking experts, asking for help, it became really easy. And we got an incredible result. Nathan Yun WILL RICE COLLEGE SENIOR

AISHA KHEMANI

FOR THE THRESHER

FRANCESCA NEMATI / THRESHER team’s two faculty advisors. “This year, MSNE is doing its capstone in collaboration with other engineering departments (in coordination with the [Oshman Engineering Design Kitchen]),” Zednik wrote in an email to the Thresher. “This has allowed students from multiple departments (each registered in their own capstone) to come to work on this project together, thereby enhancing the creativity and complexity of the design. It also better prepares students to work in interdisciplinary teams in their future careers.” According to Yun, a Will Rice senior majoring in mechanical engineering, having multiple departments represented on the team aided the success of their project. “The MSNE students knew really well how to handle a blade, how to hit it, how to quench it, what we wanted to quench it in or how to heat treat and stuff like that,” Yuh said. “I’m like, ‘How do you know that?’ And they’re like, ‘We spent the last four years studying this.’ “The [mechanical engineers] definitely showed our strength once we were in the machine shop,” he added.

PRASI DESAI

COURTESY MELVALEAN MCLEMORE-CATINA Melvalean McLemore-Catina, a 2023 graduate of the Rice Masters of Science Architecture program, began her term as the president of the American Institute of Architects Houston Jan. 1, the first Black woman to hold the role. The Houston City Council recognized McLemore-Catina’s election with a ceremony and then-Mayor Sylvester Turner proclaimed Nov. 28, 2023 to be Melvalean McLemore Day. “I’m really looking forward to serving everyone,” McLemore-Catina said in an interview with the Thresher. Igor Marjanović, the William Ward Watkin Dean of Rice Architecture, said

he is excited about McLemore-Catina’s appointment and future collaboration between Rice Architecture and the AIA. “We like to think of our graduates as agents in practice who are really actively changing the world, and this is what she is doing in this role,” Marjanović said. McLemore-Catina declared her undergraduate architecture major at University of Houston on accident, checking the wrong box on her college application. However, she said she quickly became drawn to the problem solving aspect of architecture. Soon after, McLemore-Catina noticed the lack of diverse representation in the field. “When I got licensed in 2016, I became the 16th licensed black woman [architect] in Texas,” McLemore-Catina said. McLemore-Catina said she’s always been passionate about equity. She advocated for a more diverse executive board at the AIA and co-created the National Organization of Minority Architects’ National HBCU Professional Development Program, an initiative for HBCU architecture students to gain industry connections. She also said she wanted to do something about the lack of representation in academia, noting that she never had a Black professor in architecture. “I talked about [the lack of diversity in academia] so much as being something that influences our lack of representation, [and] I started to think ‘What are you going to do about it?’” McLemore-Catina said. According to McLemore-Catina, a master’s degree is a standard credential to teach, something she hopes to do later

Rice’s student-run on-campus boba shop, which was previously known as EastWest Tea, will reopen as The Tea Nook Jan. 17, with new menu options. Sienna Tu, the general manager of the student-run business, said that it rebranded over winter recess because the name and logo of the establishment were both outdated. “We did so because we wanted to clarify our values of community and adapt to the changing social sphere,” Tu, a Sid Richardson College junior, said. “‘East-

We want to build The Tea Nook based on our community values, and we are prioritizing our relationship with our customers. Maggie Xia Lyu, who is majoring in operations research, said he had previous experience with casting, a manufacturing process where liquid metal is poured into a mold. “I’ve been casting for 12 years, so it was a cool opportunity to get to cast on campus,” Lyu said. “I’ve been, since [Orientation] Week of my freshman year, trying to get permission to handle liquid metals for artistic purposes … I wanted an excuse to work with metal again.” Hughes, a McMurtry College senior and MSNE major, also had previous experience working with metal on a farm. Editor’s Note: This article has been cut for print. Read more online at ricethresher.org.

School of Architecture graduate named president of AIA Houston SENIOR WRITER

East-West Tea rebrands to The Tea Nook

in her career. McLemore-Catina also said that she hopes to focus on more student outreach with Rice and other schools as president of the AIA. Marjanović said he believes these partnerships would be beneficial and, hopefully, productive. Ekene Emenike interacted with McLemore-Catina as a member of the National Organization for Minority Architecture Students, the student section of NOMA. Emenike, NOMAS’ professional development chair, said she admired McLemore-Catina for her accomplishments and ability to juggle multiple responsibilities including a fulltime job, master’s thesis and parenting two young children. “She just became someone that was very inspirational to me,” Emenike, a McMurtry College senior, said. According to Emenike, diversity in architecture requires improvement. “As much as architecture does put effort into diversifying precedent, I think it’s very limited,” Emenike said. Emenike said organizations like the AIA should use their influence in these areas to promote a diverse array of architecture styles as well. President of the Rice Architecture Society Valerie Elizondo said McLemore-Catina’s appointment should serve as an example for young students and professionals looking to pursue a similar path. “It gives other people who are still in high school, middle school or college someone to look at and aspire to be,” Elizondo, a Hanszen College senior, said.

MARKETING MANAGER

West Tea’ no longer represents the values we are trying to convey, and it might cause harm creating a division rather than the unity that we have been striving for. [We aim to] be more engaged with the campus community [with this rebrand].” Tu said the managing team took a democratic process in coming up with a new name. “We’ve been thinking about it for a while now and have been working on it internally, picking up on things especially during winter break,” Tu said. “The entire team suggested names, and we took a vote on it to narrow down the list.” Around campus, some students are excited about the changes and appreciate the new vision of the business. “I personally like ‘The Tea Nook’ since I feel like it goes along really well with a coffeehouse vibe and feels much more comforting and fits the vibe that goes along in the [Rice Memorial Center],” Spencer Kresie, Sid Richardson College junior, said. “There might be more possibilities for people who want to hang out in the area, find a place to study in or just be with friends instead of just getting a drink and leaving,” Felipe Mola Curi, a Sid Richardson sophomore, said. Maggie Xia, the marketing manager of The Tea Nook, hopes that it becomes a cozy community for students on campus. “We envision being a cozy space for people to interact with others or to grab a pick-me-up drink,” Xia, a Hanszen College sophomore, said. “We want to build The Tea Nook based on our community values, and we are prioritizing our relationship with our customers by incorporating as much customer feedback as possible through this transition.” VIVIAN LANG / THRESHER

4 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

Veeraraghavan receives O’Donnell Award for engineering research work a reality — in optics, compressed sensing, integrated circuit design, CMOS FOR THE THRESHER fabrication and computational modeling,” Ashok Veeraraghavan, a professor White wrote in an email to the Thresher. of electrical and computer engineering, “For me, this is why it’s so exciting to work was awarded the 2024 Edith and Peter with [Veeraraghavan]’s group: Our team is O’Donnell Award for “revolutionary uniquely inter- and intra-disciplinary, and imaging technology,” and will be highly collaborative, which lets us design complete imaging systems from photon recognized Feb. 6. The Texas Academy of Medicine, to transistor. We aren’t constrained to offEngineering, Science and Technology the-shelf parts or existing models; our awards the Edith and Peter O’Donnell imagination is the only limit.” Haiyun Guo, a third-year Ph.D. student, award to a Texas researcher “addressing the essential role that science and technology and Boominathan worked on NeuWS technology to modify the original WS play in society” annually. technology. According to “Existing methods program director can image through Stephanie Shaw, scattering media and TAMEST award Great work does not other obscurants by recipients present wavefront shaping their research to happen over losing methods using highconference attendees sleep over wondering resolution spatial and receive a $25,000 whether you will get light modulators — honorarium and an award, [it] happens but previous work medal. Recipients generally requires are chosen from because you are guidestars, controlled nominations and the passionate about it. illumination, point finalist is selected scanning and/or with consideration Luay Nakleh statics scenes and from National DEAN OF ENGINEERING aberrations,” Guo Academy members and a committee of Texas Nobel and wrote in an email to the Thresher. Guo said that in collaboration with Breakthrough Prize Laureates. “[The award is a] pathway to National University of Maryland, they “introduce Academy recognition, and I hope this neural WS, a WS technique that can assists [Veeraraghavan] in progressing his computationally correct for severe timeresearch and continuing his innovative and varying isoplanatic aberrations without a guidestar.” transformative work,” Shaw said. Luay Nakleh, the William and Stephanie Veeraraghavan credits the efforts of his Sick Dean of Engineering and professor of entire lab for the award. “It really is a recognition of the hard computer science and biosciences, said work, the creativity and the innovation 2024 is the second year in a row professors done by an amazing group of graduate in the school of engineering have received students and postdoctoral researchers at the O’Donnell Award. “Last year we had Professor my lab in Rice,” Veeraraghavan said. Vivek Boominathan, a postdoctoral Jaime Padgett, the Chair of Civil and Engineering recieve research associate working on lensless Environmental imaging technology alongside Salman [the award],” Nakleh wrote in an email Khan, wrote in an email to the Thresher to the Thresher. “We do not work for describing how the lab designed miniature recognition, but we value recognition and it is important that our faculty receives cameras. “Such cameras will have applications them. Great work does not happen over as wearables, can be implemented under losing sleep over wondering whether you the skull to study brain functions, and as will get an award, [it] happens because you eyes for micro-robots and endoscopes. are passionate about it. [It] is important for We achieved this feat by completely the students to know that they shouldn’t redesigning the cameras by replacing chase recognition, chase quality and your traditional lenses with custom light- passions.” Ramamoorthy Ramesh, the vice modulating flat masks placed on the imaging sensor. Instead of focusing light president of research, stated that one of to create an image, we use computational DesRoches’ goals is to expand research in techniques to re-focus the image from the the areas of energy, environment, climate camera measurements,” Boominathan change, urban dynamics, health sciences, AI technology and data sciences. said. “[We are] investing more into research,” Mel White, a postdoctoral research fellow working on LiDAR, said that the Ramesh wrote in an email to the Thresher. collaborative environment in the lab helps “[This recognition will] help grow our them innovate to design complete imaging graduate and undergraduate programs.” “Don’t work for the recognition,” systems. “We needed expertise across the full Nakleh wrote. “Recognition comes when you do great work.” pipeline to make this

MYSHA HASAN

COURTESY JEFF FITLOW

NEWS

Cannady Hall shapes up for February completion VIOLA HSIA

SENIOR WRITER Over a year since ground was first broken on the new Cannady Hall, the building is still being constructed. According to Dean of Architecture Igor Marjanović, the vision first outlined to the Thresher and the student body is starting to take shape. “We are actually pretty close to the completion of the building, which is very exciting for us,” Marjanović said in an on-site interview with the Thresher. “Right now, the contractor is putting on the facade, primarily the red terracotta, which you see on the upper floors. The idea is that the red terracotta echoes the traditional brick architecture of the campus without being exactly the same. It’s both contemporary, but it has a little nod to history.” According to Marjanović, the building plans to have three primary spaces: a fabrication studio, a two-story public gallery facing Valhalla and a collaborative space for students and faculty to work on projects. The new building will also be connected to Anderson Hall through a walkway on the second floor, which will also serve as a “pinup” studio for students. “For our school, it was very important to add this new facility, but to keep a sense of community and culture,” Marjanović said. “This building will be crucial for the next phase of the development of the school, primarily in the fact that it’ll allow us to produce research in different [and new] ways.” According to the Vice President for Finance and Administration Kelly Fox, the building was planned to be completed in October. However, due to unforeseen site and weather conditions, the project was pushed back. “There was a little bit of weather that found its way into the project early on, that kind of delayed some things,” Fox said. “Now we’re looking at February when it should be complete.” Stuti Mehta, a junior architecture student from Lovett College, said that the construction

FRANCESCA NEMATI / THRESHER Looking east, Cannady Hall’s red terracotta facade is pictured Jan. 16. has created a few minor inconveniences, including noise and no access to meeting places such as the courtyard right outside Anderson Hall. Despite this, she says that she is excited for the new building. “For a lot of us, it’s very exciting. We’ve had only one building since the 1980s, the last time we’ve had some sort of renovation,” Mehta said. “We’ve heard that we’re going to have a bigger fabrication area. A lot of what we do requires modelmaking, or just physical building, so we’re glad that we’re getting more space [for that].” According to Marjanović, the site’s formal dedication is scheduled for Sept. 12. He added that he is excited for what the building will represent for the School of Architecture and the larger community. “This building, with this kind of aspirational focus [of] fabrication, exhibition, curation and research, really allows us to project [architectural] research forward into the community and make a case as to why it matters,” Marjanović said. “We live in a world where issues are very complex, and architecture is sort of in the middle of trying to sort of address them in a way that brings different forms of knowledge together and makes it very visible how these solutions and proposals could look different. I think this building will be really critical for us to be able to do that both in a beautiful, productive way.”

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 • 5

THE RICE THRESHER

EDITORIAL

24/7 Fondy presents more cons than pros

A petition was posted by an anonymous Rice student Jan. 13 asking for Fondren Library to be open 24/7. By publication, the petition had garnered 313 signatures. While we understand the desire for more study spaces, the extra labor required to support this endeavor may cause more difficulties than it solves. Instead, we have some suggestions for other study spaces and resources that those who want it can access 24/7. The petition claims that the change will “enhance student life and academic performance.” While it is possible that more study hours may improve grades for some, it is also true that allowing students to study at all hours will encourage unhealthy behaviors. Rice is already known for its “cult of busy-ness,” or the myth that Rice students perpetually keep themselves occupied at all hours with homework, internships, extracurriculars and more. Opening Fondy 24/7 could incentivize

students to sacrifice their physical and mental well-being as they pull more and more all-nighters. Further, there will have to be additional staff and resources allocated to support those long nighttime hours. For those who would benefit from extra study time, there currently exist places to go at all hours. The Rice ID swipe that gets you into Fondren can also access college commons and private dining rooms for latenight study sessions. Residential colleges have computer rooms with printers. The BioSciences Research Center in the Texas Medical Center is open past 2 a.m., when Fondy closes, and there is a shuttle to transport students to and from the BRC in the late hours of the night. There are many other resources that Fondren provides, from books to data software access. Even if Fondren’s hours are extended, some departments are not open for all of the library’s current hours. While Fondy’s hours are 7 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Monday through Thursday, the Digital Media Commons is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. those days and the GIS/Data Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Extending Fondy’s hours would also raise the question of whether these departments should match it, putting undue stress on their staff. Meanwhile, there are a plethora of resources available online, including the Woodson Research Center’s archives and digital collections. A sizable chunk of books, journals and other databases in the Fondy catalog are available as Ebooks 24/7 through EZproxy, enabling students doing late-night research to access them without having to go to Fondy itself. Although the desire for longer hours is understandable, we do not believe opening Fondy 24/7 would increase the quality of student life. Rather, we encourage students to utilize existing opportunities at hand and prioritize their well-being and that of others.

EDITORIAL STAFF * Indicates Editorial Board member Prayag Gordy* Editor-in-Chief Riya Misra* Editor-in-Chief Nayeli Shad* Managing Editor NEWS Brandon Chen* Editor Spring Chenjp Asst. Editor Maria Morkas Asst. Editor OPINION Sammy Baek* Editor FEATURES Sarah Knowlton* Editor ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Hadley Medlock* Editor SPORTS Pavithr Goli* Editor Diego Palos Rodriguez Asst. Editor Andersen Pickard Asst. Editor BACKPAGE Timmy Mansfield Editor Ndidi Nwosu Editor Andrew Kim Editor COPY Jonathan Cheng Editor Annika Bhananker Editor PHOTO, VIDEO, & WEB Cali Liu Photo Editor Francesca Nemati Asst. Photo Editor Camille Kao Video Editor Ayaan Riaz Web Editor DESIGN Alice Sun Art & Design Director Chloe Chan News Siddhi Narayan Opinion Jessica Xu Features Ivana Hsyung Arts & Entertainment Kirstie Qian Sports Lauren Yu Backpage BUSINESS Edelawit Negash Business Manager Korinna Ruiz Advertisement Vanessa Chuang Distribution

ABOUT The Rice Thresher, the official student newspaper of Rice University since 1916, is published each Wednesday during the school year, except during examination periods and holidays, by the students of Rice University. Letters to the Editor must be received by 5 p.m. on the Friday prior to publication and must be signed, including college and year if the writer is a Rice student. The Thresher reserves the right to edit letters for content and length and to place letters on its website. Editorial and business offices are located on the second floor of the Ley Student Center: 6100 Main St., MS-524 Houston, TX 77005-1892 Phone: (713) 348 - 4801 Email: thresher@rice.edu Website: www.ricethresher.org The Thresher is a member of the ACP, TIPA, CMA and CMBAM. © Copyright 2024

CORRECTIONS In “DesRoches delivers State of University address,” President Reginald DesRoches delivered his second, not his first, address on Nov. 29, 2023.

ricethresher.org

6 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

THE RICE THRESHER

Students, staff, Elvis impersonators take on the marathon

ANDY LIU / THRESHER Members of Rice and the Houston community participated in the Houston Marathon last Sunday.

connect with others. In 2022, he ran the then people that are doctors or engineers.” Vargas Gamboa had broken his elbow a Boston Marathon with three other runners of varying backgrounds. In Sunday’s month ago, and after going through surgery, marathon, he ran with a University of was afraid that he wouldn’t be able to run the Houston Marathon. Texas Arlington “My goal was just to student whom he finish the marathon met on Strava, a and maybe do physical exercise I wanted to prove to like four hours,” tracking app. Vargas Gamboa Reyner Daniel myself that I can do quite said. “Thankfully, Vargas Gamboa literally anything I set my I was able to do has also found a mind to. three hours and 40 community in longminutes.” distance running. MACHELE AGUILAR Madison Roy, First beginning his MARATHON PARTICIPANT a Jones College training a year ago, he began to run as a way to assuage the senior, said she began long-distance running during the COVID-19 pandemic as stresses of school. “I was looking to try something new, a way to stay active outside. The Houston and I felt like there was a big running Marathon was the first half marathon she community in Houston … that empowered ran, a major achievement in her running me to keep going on,” Vargas Gamboa, a career. While she was achieving her own graduate student at Rice, said. “It’s crazy fitness goals, the marathon also allowed — people from all ages are in running her to give back to her community. “I’m participating in the half marathon clubs, there’s Rice [undergraduates], and

HONGTAO HU

THRESHER STAFF Last Sunday morning, Rice students, staff and graduates brushed by the hedges at the Chevron Houston Marathon. The chilly weather and light breeze were perfect weather for running such a race, and if Lovetters and Sidizens happened to look outside their window that Sunday, they might have seen some of the 34,000 participants, the neon jersey of a pacer or even a priest throwing holy water onto the participants. Gustavo Raskosky, a video and photography specialist for the Office of Public Affairs, said that marathons allow him to see Houston in a different light. “Running marathons is great because you get to experience the totality of different cities,” Raskosky said. “I think running is a cool sport in general because it is the quickest way to explore a city. When I travel, I run around town.” For Raskosky, running is also a way to

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through a program called Run for a Reason, which allows runners to fundraise for a charity instead of paying an entry fee,” Roy said. “I’m raising [money] for an animal shelter called Friends for Life, and I’ve been volunteering with them for about two years now.” After the race, Roy remarked on the race’s attractions. “I think the spectators really made it,” Roy said. “There were some groups that were themed; there were Elvis impersonators … that’s pretty cool to see.” Machele Aguilar, a Baker College junior, said she spontaneously signed up for the Houston Marathon after seeing her friend sign up for the half marathon. “I wanted to prove to myself that I can do quite literally anything I set my mind to,” Aguilar wrote in an email to the Thresher. “A marathon seemed like an unattainable goal.” Editor’s Note: This article has been cut off for print. Read the full article at ricethresher.org.

1 Provider of JAPA and KORE courses, among others 5 Design detail, for short 9 Distort, as data 13 R&B artist Jhené 14 Take care of 15 But, in Bolivia 16 Splashdown organizers, abbr. 17 Drug cop, for short 18 ____ von Bismarck 19 Starring part 21 Stole during a riot 23 ____ d’Ivoire 24 Little League precursor 25 Like some yogurt 28 Risk taker 30 Breakfast staple 33 Slanted type 35 Michele and Salonga 36 One for the road? 37 It often goes with C or V 38 Van _____ (rock band) 40 Tiny amount 41 30-Across source 42 ____ de gallo 43 Revered 45 EMTs’ destinations 46 Cream of the crop 49 Fantasy writer’s creation 51 Places for pampering 53 Arise unexpectedly 55 Bottle corks 59 Add to the payroll 60 Montana neighbor 62 Couple 63 Letters on some letters 64 Completely destroy 65 Coffeehouse 66 Stadium cheers 67 Sly glance 68 Otherwise

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1 Psychologist Jung 2 Head pests 3 Where you might get some minimalist furniture 4 What professors might do to increase class participation 5 “Signed, _____, Delivered” 6 French father 7 Space-saving letters 8 Some frozen vegetables? 9 Thread holder 10 County fair treat 11 Art Deco artist 12 Timber 14 Nasal mucus 20 Indian flatbread 22 Rowboat needs 24 Leaves home? 25 Specialized market segment 26 A thin and hairy gay man, in slang 27 RMC Pavilion 29 Portion out 31 Airport boarding area 32 A, B, or C 34 Cold medicine? 39 Corrosive chemical 40 You thought she was feeling you? 42 Lima’s locale 44 “Stat!” 47 It holds your holds? 50 Unfolds 52 Hotel amenity 53 Blacken on the barbecue 54 Moreno of “West Side Story” 55 Put aside 56 And others, abbr. 57 Whistle blowers, for short 58 Hook’s helper 61 Barely passing mark

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 • 7

FEATURES

Off-campus housing options to explore AMY LI

THRESHER STAFF As room jack approaches, the potential problem of having to find affordable, convenient off-campus housing looms ever closer. Many students may think it is too soon to search for housing, but looking early is important in order to secure a lease in time. These off-campus housing options, along with their pros and cons, may help you get started on deciding where to live. The Circle at Hermann Park The Circle is a relatively popular offcampus option for Rice students and offers studio, one, two and three-bedroom homes. Apartments feature open floor plans and modern appliances. Living at The Circle includes the benefit of access to two pools and a fitness center perfect for when the on-campus gym gets too crowded. Students hoping to cook at home will also appreciate its proximity to H-E-B, 0.6 miles away. Josh Stallings, a resident of one of The Circle’s three-bedroom units, emphasized the importance of The Circle’s Essential Housing program in making his decision on where to live off-campus. “We managed to get an apartment at The Circle that was essentially 50% off on rent … I pay $500 a month, and that’s really hard to beat for me,” Stallings, a Duncan College sophomore, said.

Stallings said that the program is worth checking out. “I was told any college student receiving financial aid, merit or need based, could potentially be eligible,” Stallings wrote in an email to the Thresher. “At my particular complex, these apartments are fairly limited in number so not all of the units could be leased under this term. But if you could potentially qualify it’s definitely worth checking out, and other places could have something similar!” Despite these perks, The Circle is 1.5 miles away and mostly accessible for students with cars, bikes or a very flexible schedule. Even then, students will have to drive or bike for about 10 minutes through Hermann Park. Life Tower Life Tower is a relatively new apartment complex offering studio, one, two and four-bedroom apartments. Emma Hughes, manager of Life Tower, told the Thresher in 2022 that around 300 Rice students were living in the complex at the time. The fullyfurnished apartments include kitchens equipped with various appliances, highspeed internet and in-unit washer and dryer facilities. Amenities include a 24/7 fitness center, study nooks and an outdoor terrace. When the building opened in 2022, Life Tower residents wrote a petition to management about their lack of

responsiveness to residents’ complaints, which included electrical problems and security issues. At the time, one petition signer told the Thresher, “The ovens don’t work … and, more annoyingly, the washing machines don’t work. My dishwasher leaked all over the floor, which is not convenient.” Hughes attributed these issues to the building’s construction, which was ongoing at the time but is now largely completed. Prices currently sit at around $1,130 per person for four-bedroom apartments, $1,275 for two-bedroom apartments, and $1,400–$1,700 for studios. Mezzo Kirby Mezzo Kirby offers studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments. Apartments are designed to be semi-modern and come with appliances including an in-unit washer and dryer, a fridge, a stove and an oven. Apartments come unfurnished. Residents have access to a gym, which includes a yoga studio, and a pool. Students hoping to live at the Mezzo can expect to pay in the realm of $1,000 to $1,300. Diego Lopez, a Will Rice College senior, began living at the Mezzo back in 2020 based on its proximity to Kroger, which is directly across the street from the apartment complex, and the recommendation of a

family friend. “In 2020, none of my roommates or I had cars, so having accessible groceries was a huge factor,” Lopez wrote in an email to the Thresher. The Mezzo is relatively far from campus compared to other options at 2.3 miles from West Lot, roughly a 10-15 minute drive depending on traffic. Other housing Though many students live in the previously listed apartment complexes, many others live in houses in various areas, sharing home and rent costs with a group of roommates. This can often be far cheaper than spaces in large apartment complexes. Tyler Kadivar lives in a house in Montrose with three roommates, each with their own bedroom. However, the one big downside is that their home is relatively far from campus. “The process of finding this place was maybe a little bit difficult because I think we started a little late …” Kadivar, a Duncan sophomore said. “The biggest problem is the distance, because it’s about a 10-15 minute bike to campus, which is obviously less than ideal.” Editor’s Note: This article has been condensed for print. Read the full article at ricethresher.org.

Snap your senior shots here AMELIA DAVIS

THRESHER STAFF

With graduation looming on the horizon, seniors have a long to-do list before they enter the real world. One of a graduate’s many tasks is securing that ideal graduation picture. With the Sallyport currently playing host to chain-link fences and construction vehicles, you may want to set your sights on some of the Rice area’s other landmarks to get the perfect shot. The Turrell Skyspace Located next to the Shepherd School of Music, the Skyspace makes for a striking dusk or dawn photoshoot when its colorful lights are activated — each day, the light show begins around 40 minutes before sunrise and again 10 minutes before sunset, lasting for about 40 minutes. It’s one of the most memorable places at Rice, especially for art lovers or anyone who enjoys the installation’s futuristic aesthetic. Lee and Joe Jamail Plaza Snap a few shots in front of the rustication fountain to celebrate your victory in avoiding its spell. You get a traditional, respectable photo with a little inside joke for those in the know. Additionally, the plaza — situated between the Baker Institute and McNair Hall — is appropriate for business or social policy students, especially the bull and bear market statues at the entrance of McNair. Even if that isn’t your academic focus, the sectioned garden areas at the corners of the plaza are a beautiful verdant backdrop for a photo.

Boulevard Oaks For more traditional photos, the trees and greenery of Rice are almost as iconic as the Sallyport. There are plenty of wooded spots on campus, but the Boulevard Oaks neighborhood just north of Rice has been featured in plenty of engagement, wedding and graduation photoshoots in the past. The most popular place is along the North, South and West boulevards in Broadacres, on the brick esplanades. Houston Zoo If you feel a connection to Houston itself, a few close-by landmarks may be appealing to you. For biosciences or environmental sciences students who may go on to focus on animals, the Houston Zoo is conveniently located for some pictures that incorporate your passions. A similar option would be the Houston Arboretum for a lush and floral background with plenty of natural views. Hermann Park Hermann Park hosts a wealth of backdrops and interesting pieces for photos. The reflecting pools and fountain are a great setting, especially for political science hopefuls with their sights set on Washington, D.C.; the Pioneer Memorial Obelisk is reminiscent of a miniaturized version of the National Mall and Washington Monument. Celebrate your time in Houston while anticipating your journey onwards. Additionally, the Japanese garden is right across the street from the main entrance to campus, perfect for taking spring graduation pictures while it’s blooming.

GENESIS HAHN / THRESHER

AMY CAO / THRESHER

8 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

THE RICE THRESHER

Review: ‘Mean Girls’ is kitschy, camp, questionable

HUGO GERBICH PAIS, SARA DAVIDSON AND HADLEY MEDLOCK

THRESHER STAFF, THRESHER STAFF AND A&E EDITOR “Mean Girls” reminded us of an important truth: If you are going to make a musical, you need to hire actors who can sing and a choreographer with experience. It also proves, though, that bad films can often be great fun. Written by Tina Fey and based on both the 2004 comedy and 2018 Broadway musical of the same name, “Mean Girls,” released Jan. 8, already had much source material to adapt and live up to — something that it often didn’t do well. First, the film made a rather poor attempt at ushering the early 2000s “Mean Girls” into modernity. With multiple shots meant to make you think that it was being filmed on an iPhone camera, the prevalence of characters using TikTok and social media within the film, obvious

product placement (yes, we’re talking about that stupid Samsung flip phone Cady uses and all the ELF lipstick) and a wardrobe that looked like it came from Shein, “Mean Girls” disappointingly declined to pay homage to its Y2K roots. While the script follows the 2004 film quite closely, many songs from the musical were cut or nearly butchered in this adaptation, with some changes defying explanation. Cady often spoke lines she was meant to sing, and Regina was the only one with lines in “Meet the Plastics,” nearly negating the entire purpose of the song. Poor production changes on nearly all the songs also made it feel like a spoof of a musical theatre performance, not a Broadway adaptation. One of the most frustrating aspects of

addition to QR codes than scan to audio files, allowing guests to listen to Kahraman’s own explanations of her Entering the Brown Foundation gallery work. Maddie Garrity, president of the reveals a few dozen more paintings and Moody Student collaborative, said she drawings. Figures sprawled over canvas hopes that students will connect with hang across from walls of paneled themes and sentiments that Kahraman mirrors, inviting observers to identify aims to capture. “She talks about her experiences … with the vulnerability of the paintings. “I was thinking about what it means experiencing otherness and cultural to bend so violently, yet not break and isolation,” Garrity, a Hanszen College junior, said. “I think that’s something not feel pain,” Kahraman said. Josenhans believes that despite probably a lot of Rice students can the artist’s exceptional life story, the connect with. Just being able to see her exhibit is grounded through Kahraman’s reflections and her experience will help you feel maybe frequent use of less alone … the human form. and kind of help “A l t h o u g h people figure her experience things out.” is extremely I think people will really G a r r i t y personal and it’s find different ways said she also hard for someone appreciates to understand to connect with these the degree of who didn’t go paintings and drawings. dedication through the same and academic experience of Frauke Josenhans experience that being a refugee, CURATOR AT THE MOODY Kahraman puts she presents this experience through the human body,” into her pieces. “She’s done a lot of research in Josenhans said. “She shows human bodies … in ways that are extremely microbiology and immunology, and she … pulls from that when creating powerful.” Various texts around the collection some of her pieces to look at how your explain the themes conveyed, in experiences inform your microbiology,”

said for Janis, played by Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced Disney’s Moana at age 14 and also proved to be a vocal powerhouse. While we heard significantly less singing from many of the other characters, Damian (Jaquel Spivey), Gretchen (Bebe Wood) and Karen (Avantika Vandanapu) still carried the little weight they were given in both singing and acting. Unfortunately, Angourie Rice played Cady Heron and will likely not have a future in musical theater following this performance. Her voice fell flat, and several of her important songs were cut from the movie, likely because of this. Her singing was strained and Rice often lacked any sort of enthusiasm or energy in both her singing and acting. The directors should have put someone in the starring role who could match the vocal power of Rapp and Cravalho, instead of forcing an Australian actress to become an American singer. Unlike Angourie Rice, Chris Briney was an excellent casting choice for Aaron Samuels— though at times he does seem to be more of a prop than an actor. There COURTESY PARAMOUNT PICTURES were loud gasps in the theater the first time Briney appeared on screen, and the audience is constantly graced by his the film was its poor choreography. We evocative facial expressions and close-ups nearly cringed during “Apex Predator” of his tousled hair. Although he did not when hordes of high schoolers suddenly sing in the film at all, the Broadway run became animals and crawled around the does have precedence for a non-singing floor, and “Someone Gets Hurt” saw a male lead. Joining the likes of Cameron houseful of teenagers weirdly convulse Dallas and other hot, famous actors who can’t sing, Briney in slow motion. did a great job with The culprit was what he was given. Kyle Hanagami, We can’t deny a celebrity that “Mean Girls” choreographer who was a camp works with artists Written by: Tina Fey experience at its like Blackpink. core. Even when Instead of feeling it was trying to be like real musical theatre numbers, the film’s dance funny, we spent the entire time laughing at sequences often felt like protracted TikTok it, rather than with it. Rapp and Cravalho’s videos and lacked the emotional depth to vocals provided a welcome respite, though, and it was overall an entertaining advance the storytelling. Regina George was played by Reneé film. Despite its issues, it does remind us Rapp who sang phenomenally, though this why “Mean Girls” is such a cult hit, even was expected given her stint as Regina in 20 years after the original’s release — the Broadway version. The same can be sometimes it’s fun to be a mean girl.

FROM FRONT PAGE

MOODY

AHITAGNI DAS / THRESHER Kahraman’s exhibit features a variety of paintings evoking vulnerability and the human body.

Garrity explained. “I think it’s really cool how science and art interact [in her work].” Josenhans said she hopes that students will be able to use “The Foreign in Us” as a looking-glass through which to evaluate their struggles, and that they may each see it through the lens of their own cultures and frames of reference.

“Someone from Italy will see some Renaissance postures in the paintings, someone who comes from Japan may see some calligraphy or Japanese wood cuts, someone from the United States may see some abstract expressionist brush strokes,” Josenhans said. “I think people will really find different ways to connect with these paintings and drawings.”

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 • 9

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Review: ‘Hall & Nash 2’ showcases what makes Westside Gunn and Conway the Machine exciting JACOB PELLEGRINO

chorus and Conway and ScHoolboy Q each on a verse. Lyrically, the song deals with the rappers’ experiences and skill In 2016, underground rappers with dealing drugs. Listeners are left Westside Gunn and Conway the Machine knowing that even despite the artists’ were beginning to build a following, new careers, they still have the skills releasing albums filled with intense and mentality they needed in the past. verses over ornate instrumentals. As a ScHoolboy Q’s delivery during his verse follow up to their collaborative release, is a particular high point on the track. “Michelangelo” is another essential “Hall & Nash,” named after the ’90s pro wrestling duo, the two linked up with song on “Hall & Nash 2.” The Alchemist’s production shines The Alchemist, one of from the first second hip hop’s most exciting of the track with producers, to record haunting notes that a sequel. However, seem to hang above the Westside Gunn and Top Track: ‘Michelangelo’ verses, lingering in the Conway the Machine listener’s ears. At first it soon signed with can seem like the beat Shady Records leaving the finished album, originally scheduled will be a simple one bar repeating pattern for a 2017 release, shelved with some of before it builds and shifts into a releasing the tracks used on other projects over the piano melody. The verses in song, which years. Now, the original album is finally eschews a chorus, match the menace of the instrumental as Gunn and Conway out for public consumption. “Fork In The Pot” is an early highlight embrace the brash confidence that has from the album, featuring ScHoolboy Q helped them to get where they are today. Another particularly exciting cut and new to streaming with the release of “Hall & Nash 2.” It previously had production-wise is “94 Ghost Shit,” also a limited physical release via The previously released as a physical only Alchemist’s store in 2018. The track’s single in 2018. With a smooth transition production hinges around a bass groove from the previous track, “Michelangelo,” and drum instrumental with synth “94 Ghost Shit” moves the focus to flourishes punctuating the long verses. Conway with him rapping both verses It’s broken up with Gunn taking the over The Alchemist’s intense looping THRESHER STAFF

COURTESY ALC RECORDS

keys instrumental. Conway largely deals with his rise to fame and raw ability. In the first verse, he reflects on the factors working against him, such as his battle with Bell’s Palsy after a 2012 shooting that left the right side of his face paralyzed, affecting his flow and almost ending his rap career. As a whole, “Hall & Nash 2” is a rewarding listening experience that

includes previously unreleased tracks and recontextualizes others. Even though the project was recorded in 2016, it sounds vital and current, emphasizing the consistency and relevance of all parties involved. In an announcement on his Instagram, The Alchemist has already teased another “Hall & Nash” project featuring Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine, producer Daringer and himself.

Review: Dandelion Cafe brings brunch to campus ALEENA AHMAD

FOR THE THRESEHR The second location of the Dandelion Cafe, a Houston-based restaurant, is now open in the O’Connor Building for Engineering & Science. Described by Good Morning America as having one of the best chicken and waffles in Houston, the cafe is known for its variety of brunch options. While the Rice location only offers a smaller selection of their normal menu items, the variety of non-servery options, comforting atmosphere and acceptance of Tetra is sure to make the Dandelion Cafe a hit on campus. Placed on the first floor by the entrance, the cafe looks out on the engineering quadrangle, and the space has decent seating and a calm environment. While people may want to try venturing here for a study spot as opposed to Coffeehouse, their “soft opening” are currently only 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays. The cafe on campus offers a smaller version of their star item with a sixinch waffle and a piece of chicken. An employee at the Dandelion Cafe said that the breakfast tacos are one of their most popular menu items, as well as the variety of chicken sandwiches they offer. She also added that everything is housemade fresh every day. In addition to food, they offer classic coffee drinks and house-made syrup flavors like chocolate, caramel and cinnamon. They even use coffee ice cubes in their iced coffee to prevent the dilution of your drink as it melts. They also offer multiple milk options including whole, 2%, skim, oat and a house-made almond milk, though their alternate milks come for an additional dollar. I decided to try their honey butter chicken biscuit. It was massive, with a price tag to match, coming in around $10. I could hardly unhinge my mouth

ALEENA AHMAD / THRESHER Dandelion Cafe offers a honey butter chicken biscuit for $10. enough to take a bite. The biscuit was a sight to behold, and as a baker myself, I was thrilled by the sheer number of layers present. The chicken piece was a decent size, though there could have been a bit more honey butter — the flavor was overshadowed by the chicken’s mild spice. Regardless, the chicken was wellcooked and had just the right amount of fried coating. The richness of the biscuit, the slight spice of the chicken and the occasional honey sweetness all blended well together. To accompany my morning biscuit, I also got an iced vanilla matcha latte for $5. It was just alright. While the flavor was nice and earthy, the matcha taste wasn’t strong and overall a little watery. With the added flavoring it wasn’t overly sweet, and the specks of good-quality vanilla bean gave it bonus points. The details are what make Dandelion Cafe — their homemade touch is especially present. Overall, it tastes comforting and high quality, but it does cost you. I spent about $15 on this excursion so, lest my Tetra dry up by February, I might save my next visit as a treat next time I’m fighting through exams. Still, I will be thinking fondly of that biscuit next time I’m subjected to servery breakfast.

De Lange Conference XIII Feb. 9–10, 2024 Baker Institute

http://delange.rice.edu/

10 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

THE RICE THRESHER

FROM FRONT PAGE

BASKETBALL

“It’s not the brand of basketball we want to put on the court,” head coach Lindsay Edmonds said after the game. “We missed a bunch of bunnies and unfortunately, we weren’t able to get to the free throw line at the rate they [did]. We forced 29 turnovers but then we’re not translating those into points.” Edmonds believed her team’s struggles were influenced by the temporary relocation to the Fertitta Center and sudden return back to Tudor Fieldhouse. “We haven’t played here since Dec. 16. We haven’t practiced here since Dec. 29. It really almost felt like another away game for us,” Edmonds said. “It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to be

on the court. I think it resulted in our shooting percentage tonight.” Edmonds hinted that the Owls would bounce back in a competitive fashion against the University of South Florida during their next game on Jan. 14, and she was right. Rice went on the road and won a back-and-forth battle against the Bulls. The Owls trailed by two points at halftime but fought for a 67-64 victory after outscoring USF 22-15 in the fourth quarter. Rice combined for six points off turnovers in the final quarter; South Florida had zero. Fisher was a key reason why Rice played such strong basketball in the final period, Edmonds and Ennis agreed postgame. She added 12 points, six rebounds, one block and one steal

in the fourth quarter alone, going a perfect 8-for-8 on free throws. The junior standout finished with 23 points and 12 rebounds. When asked what sparked her late run, Fisher cited her desire to win the game for the Owls. “My decisiveness to have the ball in my hands and take over the game,” Fisher said. “I know I’m a good player, everybody knows I’m a good player. Get the ball and make plays for my teammates.” Ennis also bounced back after her quiet outing on Thursday. Against the Bulls, she delivered 16 points, shooting 2-for-4 from beyond the arc while hitting all four of her free throws. Meanwhile, Jackson added five rebounds and six assists.

Edmonds was impressed by her team’s ability to shake off the frustrating loss to Charlotte and defeat a talented conference opponent on the road. “We could’ve come in here feeling sorry for ourselves, but we didn’t,” Edmonds said. “We bounced back in a big way and showed how dominant we can be, how impressive we can be, how deep we are. [I am] just really proud of the grit and determination this group showed.” The Owls now own a 3-1 conference record, which ranks fourth among 14 teams in the AAC. They remain on the road for three more conference games, starting with a matchup against East Carolina University on Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. Rice won’t return home until Jan. 27 when they play the University of Memphis.

COLUMN

Checking in: Men’s basketball 13th in AAC at midseason

COURTESY RICE ATHLETICS Senior forward Max Fiedler drives against a University of Incarnate Word defender. At time of publication, the Owls are currently 6-10 on the season.

Halfway through the season, Rice men’s basketball has not won a game against an American Athletic Conference opponent. Following Jan. 12’s loss to the University of South Florida, the Owls are 6-10 on the season, 0-3 in conference play and stuck in a four-game skid, at time of publication. “It’s a challenging league,” head coach Scott Pera said. “We got off to a slow start. I think we should’ve won two of the first three [in conference]. We

EDITORIAL CARTOON

have to find ways to close out games.” According to Pera, the team’s struggles partly result from a newfound difficulty in making three-point shots. In the 2022-23 season, Rice was fifth in Conference USA in three-point percentage and second in total threepoint field goals made. The Owls sat at the bottom of the AAC table in threepoint percentage going into last week’s South Florida game, but thanks to sophomore guard Mekhi Mason and

“Owl-American”

“It’s not rocket science, y’all!”

senior guard Alem Huseinovic each going four for five from the perimeter against the Bulls, Rice has risen to tenth, out of 14, in the AAC in that column. “We haven’t shot the ball particularly well, which has been a surprise to us,” Pera said. “We thought we had a pretty good shooting team. But we have a lot of games left. We shot it well [against South Florida], so hopefully that will continue … We need to continue to get better at taking the right shots, not forcing it, sharing the ball and staying calm.” The players responsible for 67.7% of Rice’s scoring in 2022-23 have returned for this season. Missing is then-senior guard Quincy Olivari, who led the Owls in points per game and scored 24.3% percent of the team’s points before transferring to Xavier University in March. According to Pera, Rice’s shooting has also been hurt by the absence of junior Cameron Sheffield, who has been sidelined with a foot injury since November. Two key returning Rice seniors have started every game this season: guard Travis Evee and forward Max Fiedler. Fiedler leads the Owls in field-goal percentage and averages nearly twice as many rebounds and assists per game as the next guy, while Evee is first in points and steals per game. According to Pera, the quality of Rice’s play relies heavily on the duo’s ability to show up and lead. “Travis and Max are a big part of everything we do,” Pera said. “We count on them to be productive every night and to be consistent contributors. We

also need them to improve defensively, and be great, vocal leaders of the team.” Improvement on the defensive end would help the Owls, who currently have the worst scoring margin in the conference and sit at fourth most points allowed per game. The perimeter is a particular weakness for Rice on defense as on offense, with opponents making a higher percentage of threes against the Owls than against any other AAC team besides the University of Texas at San Antonio. Additionally, Rice is last in steals per game, next to last in turnover margin and below average in blocked shots. However, Pera sees progress in the Owls’s ability to slow down opponents. “I think we’ve improved defensively,” Pera said. “We still have a long way to go, but we’re making strides.” The Owls have 15 conference contests left before their first AAC tournament. Rice went 6-9 in the final 15 games of their last two regular seasons in C-USA. 6-9 also happens to be the lowest rate at which the Owls can win in the second half of 2023-24 to enter the conference tournament with a better winning percentage than they have right now. To do that and improve on how they performed down the stretch in previous years, Rice needs to win at least 40% of their games in a league in which they are already in the bottom half of many statistical rankings, and have the worst total record, despite having the third-easiest strength of schedule in the conference at 0.55. Pera and his players continue to have high expectations for themselves. According to Fiedler, the team shows flashes of skill and success of which they just need to lay hold. “We have some stretches where we play really high-level basketball,” Fiedler said. “We have to extend that over 40 minutes and continue to improve, and then the results will be in our favor.” “Our expectations are to compete and to try and win every game we play,” Pera said. “That’s our goal.”

Landry Wood

THRESHER STAFF

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 • 11

SPORTS

Men’s tennis sweeps PVAMU CADAN HANSON

SENIOR WRITER

Rice men’s tennis opened their 2024 season Saturday with a sweep of Prairie View A&M University at home. The Owls won both the morning and afternoon dual meet with a pair of 7-0 victories, starting their season 2-0. After the matches, head coach Efe Ustundag explained that the double-header was perfect in terms of results and preparation. “I think this is exactly how we wanted today to go,” Ustundag said. “We changed some things around the second doubles just to give everybody a chance to try some things. This is one week into the season training and to see this kind of focus and effort was good. It gives us one more week to really build on the training last week.” In the morning match, the Owls quickly jumped to a 1-0 lead after sweeping the doubles matches. Senior Yasha Zemel and sophomore Santiago Navarro defeated PVAMU’s Diego Hatem and Eduardo Nunez (6-2), senior Trinity Grear and sophomore Kabeer Kapasi defeated PVAMU’s Abdulraheem Isa and Jadyn Boone (6-1) and junior Arthus de la Bassetiere and junior Eduardo Morais defeated PVAMU’s Omari Dudley and Tafari Dudley (6-0). In the singles section of the matches, the Owls won all six of the matches. Zemel defeated Nunez (6-0, 6-2) on court one. On court two, Grear trounced Abdulraheem (61, 6-0), and de la Bassetiere bested Hatem (6-2, 6-1) on court three. On court four, junior Emir Sendogan defeated Xavier Peter-Gooding (6-1, 6-2) and on court five, Navarro swept Boone (6-0, 6-0). Finally, on court six, Kapasi defeated Dudley (6-0, 6-1). “The team is coming together well,” Grear said. “I think that our team is very deep this year; e ve r yo n e is very close in level s o

COURTESY RICE ATHLETICS Senior Yasha Zemel hits the ball in a game over the weekend. The Owls swept Prairie View A&M University over the weekend to start their dual season with a 2-0 record.

practices are very competitive and we’re all pushing each other. I’m really excited to compete with these guys going forward and enjoy my last season. I think that this weekend’s matches were a very solid start to a long season ahead. We handled our business but we also picked up some things we can look to sharpen in the coming weeks to see our team improve even more.” In the afternoon match, the Owls continued their run by winning all three doubles matches. Kapasi and Morais defeated Hatem and Flores (6-2), de la Bassetiere and freshman Petro Kuzmenok defeated Isa and Peter-Gooding (6-2), and Grear and Sendogan defeated Dudley and Dudley (6-1). Ustundag was pleased with the composure of the team in the second match after a strong early performance. “It’s always good to see our second set scores as strong as the first set score, or at times even stronger,” Ustundag said. “Sometimes when you are winning comfortably in first sets, it’s tough and it’s easy sometimes to lose a little bit of focus and get a little lazy. Thankfully, it didn’t happen, the guys just stayed the course.” In the afternoon singles matches, the Owls won all six matches. On court one, Zemel defeated Isa (6-3, 6-1). On court two, de la Bassetiere defeated Flores in three (60, 4-6 1-0 (10-3)). On court three, Sendogan defeated Hatem (6-2, 6-1). On court four, Kapasi defeated Peter-Gooding (6-1, 6-1). On court five, Morasis defeated Dudley (6-0, 6-2). And on court six, Kuzmenok defeated Boone (6-0, 6-1). de la Bassetiere, who won in a third-set super-tiebreak to solidify the team’s perfect record on the day, felt the team was prepared to start the season off on the right foot. “I think the team started the season in a good way,” de la Bassetiere said. “The coaches gave us great instructions for these first matches. I think everyone did a good job. We focused the last week of training more on the double parts and the work paid off. These matches allow us to set up the rhythm for this season.” The Owls return to the court this Sunday at 11 a.m. at the George R. Brown Tennis Center to take on Lamar University. Looking to keep the undefeated record, de la Bassetiere is excited to continue the home stretch. “I cannot wait to play next weekend against Lamar,” de la Bassetiere said. “It is always special to play at home. We will continue to play with a positive mindset and we will keep defending our home court.”

12 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

BACKPAGE

Spring 2024 Horoscope ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

(MAR 21 - APR 19)

(APR 29 - MAY 20)

(MAY 21 - JUN 21)

( JUN 22 - JUL 22)

Beware—your next pregame may be taken over by a band of wily freshmen. Keep returning your servery plates and composting, or face their liquid longing!

You could take 21 credit hours this semester… but should you? Your persistent nature will lead to your downfall if you don’t drop a class and a club (Kesem will survive without you, we promise).

Inside of you there are two wolves: one who doesn’t want to get into anything right now and one who is scared of hurting your situationship’s feelings. Keep leading them on, girl!

This semester will bring a lot of emotional maturity, and you’d be wise to share your knowledge with your peers. Take the RHA class and resist referring to your friends’ rant sessions as “tea.”

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

( JUL 23 - AUG 22)

(AUG 23 - SEP 22)

(SEP 23 - OCT 23)

(OCT 24 - NOV 21)

Your hunch is right: Wiess Tabletop Theater needs you. And if it turns out they don’t, there’s some other stage calling for you, like raising your hand to supplement your lecture with crucial fun facts.

Your residential college could use a star like you on Cab. Run for office! Your steely heart is already prepared for the disillusionment that comes with student government.

Spring is the time to approach that special someone you’ve had an eye on! Whether O-Week parent or Rice faculty member, the draconian no-dating rules apply to you no more!

Once the weather gets warmer it will no longer be socially acceptable to spend the entire day in your room. Beat the curve and start chilling in Commons now to forge new, unbreakable bonds.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS ( JAN 20 - FEB 18)

PISCES

(FEB 19 - MAR 20)

“I’m interested in solving problems and working in a field that allows me to work on dynamic teams every day, but I don’t know where to start.” If this is you, here’s your chance to learn about Rice Consulting. Through the club you will gain real-world consulting experience by helping companies with their operational strategy; connect with recruiters through club-exclusive recruiting events; secure first round interviews by providing resume and networking advice; get the offer with help from club members who have secured internships/jobs at top consulting firms!

No cap, this semester is going to be a rough one. But you will soon discover a TA from heaven that will hardcore carry you if you start attending office hours now.

You may be wondering: what is missing in my life? Should I switch to Business? To quell this turmoil within you, go to West Servery at 2:00 A.M. tomorrow and all will be unveiled.

Remember that weird dream you had? The one you told the guy at the Wellbeing Office about? It’s going to come true. There is nothing you can do about it, so go ahead and start crying now.

(NOV 22 - DEC 21)

(DEC 22 - JAN 19)

The Backpage is the satire section of the Thresher, written this week by Ndidi Nwosu, Andrew Kim, and Timmy Mansfield and designed by Lauren Yu. For questions or comments, please email dilfhunter69@rice.edu.