arizona daily wildcat wildlife edition — dec. 8, 2010

10
B section wednesday, december , Christy Delehanty Arts Editor 520•621•3106 [email protected] wildlife Your guide to the Tucson arts and entertainment scene The times are definitely changing, which raises a lot of questions in the world of art, design and production. For example, what will happen to the various media for art as technology grows increasingly more all- encompassing? How can we showcase creative expression in such an industrialized world? Triple Canopy is an online magazine which has taken these questions and embraced the answers. The company uses the internet to contribute to, and connect people within the world of art and design. Triple Canopy’s mission statement explains that the company “facilitates projects that engage the Internet’s specific characteristics as a public forum and as a medium, one with its own evolving practices of reading and viewing, economies of attention and modes of interaction.” As a result, Triple Canopy has created a complex world of networking for creativity all across the world. They host many events which showcase films, hold discussions and start conversations between artists and their audiences. As Alexander Provan, the editor of Triple Canopy, explains: “We’ve done some events in New York, Berlin and LA. This is a subject that people tend to respond to differently depending on where they live, and depending upon the relationship between artistic practice and publishing (in that area).” And this December, Triple Canopy is also bringing one of these discussions to Tucson. This event, called “Scale Models,” contains many exciting activities spanning three days. From Dec. 16 - 18, many important representatives of the Triple Canopy company will be “discussing the role of design in the development of emerging forms of publication” at the Museum of Contemporary Art. “As far as I know, there aren’t a lot of discussions about this happening in Tucson. We’re excited to see what people in Tucson are thinking,” Provan said. The event also features screenings of films by the prolific animator and Tucson denizen, Robert Breer. In addition, the museum will unveil “Planetarium,” a navigable scale model of the solar system by artist Matt Mullican. This work was recently featured in the online magazine. Provan encourages UA students to attend this unique and thought- provoking weekend at the museum. “This event is interesting, especially for students studying art, art history, literature, design and even computer sciences. The idea for Triple Canopy is that it’s really a space in which all those things interact and learn from each other,” he said. Although the world of emerging technology can seem daunting, Triple Canopy believes that the combination of various forms of media can be extremely beneficial. Provan said that art, literature, design and computer sciences “converge pretty often. And those convergences are really interesting and productive for all the areas involved.” What better way to end finals week than with a little comic relief? Sky Bar will be hosting this month’s Soft Rock Hard Comedy VII, a free monthly event that brings together comedy, music and even film shorts, on Dec. 19. Mike Sterner, a former UA student who started his comedy career by participating in Comedy Corner and performing in the old student union, hosts the event alongside nine comedians and four musical acts. Each “comedy clump,” as Sterner calls it, is composed of three comedians who have seven to 12 minutes each to perform. Before the next clump is introduced, there is a musical break, giving audience members the opportunity to grab drinks, a slice of pizza from Brooklyn Pizza Company next door or even step outside on the patio. The event is different from most local comedy shows for several reasons. Comedians typically only have a few minutes to perform, whereas at Soft Rock Hard Comedy they have almost triple the typical stage time. “In two minutes you barely get the audience used to you and then you have to leave. With 10 or so minutes, you have the time to do something you don’t normally do,” Sterner said. Additionally, the musical intermissions give the event more of a bar/club vibe. “There’s more of a clubhouse feel. Everyone just hangs out. You can go in and out, intermingle with the comedians and be entertained the whole time,” Sterner said. Musical acts range from a single person with a guitar to a full band. “Musical acts are supposed to be a break while still keeping the overall rhythm and feel of the event,” Sterner said. The event begins at 8 p.m. and ends at 11. The event is open to anyone 21 and older. Anyone interested in participating as a comedian, musical act or even submitting a short film should look up Soft Rock Hard Comedy on Facebook. By Miranda Butler ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT By Kristina Remy ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT WHY PLEASE WAIT YOU MUST DON’T FORGET have some professors scheduled tests this Wednesday? Finals start on Friday, people. Don’t be cruel. until after Christmas to buy gifts for friends in Tucson — most stores hold huge sales after the holiday. look both ways. There have been some scary incidents this semester involving pedestrians, so even if you’re dead tired from a long day and/or night at the library, be safe. get a peppermint mocha or a gingerbread latte while Starbucks still has them. Extra shots are good in these, too. The flavors are strong, so you can be festive and cracked out on caffeine. anything as you pack up and head home for the holidays. Remember to lock up your bike and defrost that mini-fridge! WEEKLY FIVE Online magazine to host three-day event at Tucson’s MOCA Courtesy of Triple Canopy A still from Robert Breer’s “Recreation” (1956). Triple Canopy’s three-day event at the Museum of Contemporary Art will include a screening of Breer’s films. IF YOU GO “Soft Rock Hard Comedy VII” Sky Bar 536 N. Fourth Ave. Dec. 19, 8 p.m. 21+ IF YOU GO “Scale Models” Museum of Contemporary Art 265 S. Church Ave. Dec. 16 - 18. canopycanopycanopy.com Soft Rock Hard Comedy at Sky Bar Monthly event combines music, laughs, film What not to give “We’re excited to see what people in Tucson are thinking.” — Alexander Provan editor of Triple Canopy A Stuffed Animal Stuffed animals are fun — for kids. But if you give a teddy bear or plush dog to anyone upward of 10, it just feels silly. Though some of us may have kept our favorite stuffed friends from childhood, we usually don’t have any use for a new one, no matter how cute it is. — Miranda Butler, arts writer A Craft Kit I’m not a person to dislike a gift, especially at the holidays. But it’s always pretty frustrating when I get some kind of do- it-yourself craft kit. Probably just because to me it conveys the message of, “Hey, do this craft for me, so I can know that you had fun.” Make your own beaded bag? Make your own embroidered potholder? Maybe I’d enjoy crafting some of these things on my own, but when it’s an obligatory craft, it becomes more of a nagging obligation than an indulgence in kitsch. — Kellie Mejdrich, arts writer A Charm Bracelet One particularly poor holiday gift choice people seem to love giving the women in their lives is a charm bracelet. Not only are charm bracelets so seventh grade, but they also come with a hidden, unwanted amount of work and expense for the receiver. When has someone ever received a fully-adorned charm bracelet? Never. People seem to think it is fun to only help you begin your bracelet by gifting you with the bracelet and a “starter charm.” Or even better, no bracelet at all; just the starter charm. Thanks for the useless chunk of metal; that really means a lot. — Rebecca Rillos, news writer A Package of Batteries Nothing ruins the whole “good things come in small packages” adage like six double-A batteries in their own festive wrapping. While such thorough planning ahead does save me that Dec. 26 trip to Target, I’d rather shake a few stray Energizers out of my remote than waste my excitement on such a mundane nod to practicality. — Christy Delehanty, arts editor A Self-Help Book Do you know what gift no one ever wanted for Christmas? A self- help book. Not only is it something that you’re never going to read, but it’s also a subtle insult. Gifts are supposed to be an indulgence that you wouldn’t normally buy yourself, not a practical and constructive slap in the face. They wouldn’t be getting you “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” if you weren’t a loser, “Skinny Bitch” if you weren’t a bit hefty or “Addiction and Recovery for Dummies” if you weren’t a cokehead. The only gift worse than a self-help book: a scale. — Kenny Contrata, copy chief Everyone knows what it’s like to unwrap that one gift. Whether it’s something awkward, abnormal or just not functional, there are a few things we always get but aren’t quite sure what to do with. Of course, we appreciate all the gifts we receive — but if you want your friends and family to truly love what you pick out for them, here are some gifts to avoid handing out this holiday season.

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Page 1: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B section wednesday, december ,

Christy DelehantyArts Editor

520•621•[email protected] Your guide to the Tucson

arts and entertainment scene

The times are de� nitely changing, which raises a lot of questions in the world of art, design and production. For example, what will happen to the various media for art as technology grows increasingly more all-encompassing? How can we showcase creative expression in such an industrialized world?

Triple Canopy is an online magazine which has taken these questions and embraced the answers. The company uses the internet to contribute to, and connect people within the world of art and design. Triple Canopy’s mission statement explains that the company “facilitates projects that engage the Internet’s speci� c characteristics as a public forum and as a medium, one with its own evolving practices of reading and viewing, economies of attention and modes of interaction.”

As a result, Triple Canopy has created a complex world of networking for creativity all across the world. They host many events which showcase � lms, hold discussions and start conversations between artists and their audiences. As Alexander Provan,

the editor of Triple Canopy, explains: “We’ve done some events in New York, Berlin and LA. This is a subject that people tend to respond to differently depending on where they live, and depending upon the relationship between artistic practice and publishing (in that area).”

And this December, Triple Canopy is also bringing one of these discussions to Tucson. This event, called “Scale Models,” contains many exciting activities spanning three days. From Dec. 16 - 18, many important representatives of the Triple Canopy company will be “discussing the role of design in the development of emerging

forms of publication” at the Museum of Contemporary Art . “As far as I know, there aren’t a lot of discussions about this happening in Tucson. We’re excited to see what people in Tucson are thinking,” Provan said.

The event also features screenings of � lms by the proli� c animator and Tucson denizen, Robert Breer . In addition, the museum will unveil “Planetarium,” a navigable scale model of the solar system by artist Matt Mullican . This work was recently featured in the online magazine.

Provan encourages UA students to attend this unique and thought-provoking weekend at the

museum. “This event is interesting, especially for students studying art, art history, literature, design and even computer sciences. The idea for Triple Canopy is that it’s really a space in which all those things interact and learn from each other,” he said.

Although the world of emerging technology can seem daunting, Triple Canopy believes that the combination of various forms of media can be extremely bene� cial. Provan said that art, literature, design and computer sciences “converge pretty often. And those convergences are really interesting and productive for all the areas involved.”

What better way to end finals week than with a little comic relief?

Sky Bar will be hosting this month’s Soft Rock Hard Comedy VII, a free monthly event that brings together comedy, music and even � lm shorts, on Dec. 19.

Mike Sterner, a former UA student who started his comedy career by participating in Comedy Corner and performing in the old student union, hosts the event alongside nine comedians and four musical acts.

Each “comedy clump,” as Sterner calls it, is composed of three comedians who have seven to 12 minutes each to perform. Before the next clump is introduced, there is a musical break, giving audience members the opportunity to grab drinks, a slice of pizza from Brooklyn Pizza Company next door or even step outside on the patio.

The event is different from most local comedy shows for several reasons. Comedians typically only have a few minutes to perform, whereas at Soft Rock Hard Comedy they have almost triple the typical stage time.

“In two minutes you barely get the audience used to you and then you have to leave. With 10 or so minutes, you have the time to do something you don’t normally do,” Sterner said. Additionally, the musical intermissions give the event more of a bar/club vibe.

“There’s more of a clubhouse feel. Everyone just hangs out. You can go in and out, intermingle with the comedians and be entertained the whole time,” Sterner said.

Musical acts range from a single person with a guitar to a full band. “Musical acts are supposed to be a break while still keeping the overall rhythm and feel of the event,” Sterner said. The event begins at 8 p.m. and ends at 11 . The event is open to anyone 21 and older. Anyone interested in participating as a comedian, musical act or even submitting a short � lm should look up Soft Rock Hard Comedy on Facebook .

By Miranda ButlerARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

By Kristina RemyARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

WHY PLEASEWAIT YOU MUST DON’T FORGEThave some professors scheduled tests this

Wednesday? Finals start on Friday, people. Don’t be cruel.

until after Christmas to buy gifts for friends in Tucson — most stores hold huge sales

after the holiday.

look both ways. There have been some scary incidents

this semester involving pedestrians, so even if you’re

dead tired from a long day and/or night at the library,

be safe.

get a peppermint mocha or a gingerbread latte while Starbucks still has them. Extra shots are good in

these, too. The flavors are strong, so you can be festive and cracked out on caffeine.

anything as you pack up and head home for the holidays.

Remember to lock up your bike and defrost that

mini-fridge!

WEEKLY FIVE

Online magazine to host three-day event at Tucson’s MOCA

Courtesy of Triple CanopyA still from Robert Breer’s “Recreation” (1956). Triple Canopy’s three-day event at the Museum of Contemporary Art will include a screening of Breer’s fi lms.

IF YOU GO“Soft Rock Hard

Comedy VII”Sky Bar

536 N. Fourth Ave.Dec. 19, 8 p.m.

21+

IF YOU GO“Scale Models”

Museum of Contemporary Art 265 S. Church Ave.

Dec. 16 - 18.canopycanopycanopy.com

Soft Rock Hard

Comedy at Sky Bar

Monthly event combines music,

laughs, film

What not to give

“We’re excited to see what people

in Tucson are thinking.”

— Alexander Provaneditor of Triple Canopy

A Stuffed AnimalStuffed animals are fun — for kids. But if you give a teddy

bear or plush dog to anyone upward of 10, it just feels silly. Though some of us may have kept our favorite stuffed friends from childhood, we usually don’t have any use for a new one, no matter how cute it is.

— Miranda Butler, arts writer

A Craft KitI’m not a person to dislike a gift, especially at the holidays.

But it’s always pretty frustrating when I get some kind of do-it-yourself craft kit. Probably just because to me it conveys the message of, “Hey, do this craft for me, so I can know that you had fun.” Make your own beaded bag? Make your own embroidered potholder? Maybe I’d enjoy crafting some of these things on my own, but when it’s an obligatory craft, it becomes more of a nagging obligation than an indulgence in kitsch.

— Kellie Mejdrich, arts writer

A Charm BraceletOne particularly poor holiday gift choice people seem

to love giving the women in their lives is a charm bracelet. Not only are charm bracelets so seventh grade, but they also come with a hidden, unwanted amount of work and expense for the receiver. When has someone ever received a fully-adorned charm bracelet? Never. People seem to think it is fun to only help you begin your bracelet by gifting you with the bracelet and a “starter charm.” Or even better, no bracelet at all; just the starter charm. Thanks for the useless chunk of metal; that really means a lot.

— Rebecca Rillos, news writer

A Package of Batteries Nothing ruins the whole “good things come in small packages” adage

like six double-A batteries in their own festive wrapping. While such thorough planning ahead does save me that Dec. 26 trip to Target, I’d rather shake a few stray Energizers out of my remote than waste my excitement on such a mundane nod to practicality.

— Christy Delehanty, arts editor

A Self-Help BookDo you know what gift no one ever wanted for Christmas? A self-

help book. Not only is it something that you’re never going to read, but it’s also a subtle insult. Gifts are supposed to be an indulgence that you wouldn’t normally buy yourself, not a practical and constructive slap in the face. They wouldn’t be getting you “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” if you weren’t a loser, “Skinny Bitch” if you weren’t a bit hefty or “Addiction and Recovery for Dummies” if you weren’t a cokehead. The only gift worse than a self-help book: a scale.

— Kenny Contrata, copy chief

Everyone knows what it’s like to unwrap that one gift. Whether it’s something awkward, abnormal or just not functional, there are a few things we always get but aren’t quite sure what to do with. Of course, we appreciate all the gifts we receive — but if you want your friends and family to truly love what you pick out for them, here are some gifts to avoid handing out this holiday season.

Page 2: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

wildlife

local scene

Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

To get you through your weekend …

B2 • wednesday, december 8, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat

Winter Business Graduates!2010 Senior Award Recipients:Eller College of Management Outstanding Senior:

Gabrielle Geesey Finance Outstanding Senior:

Stephen LongMarketing Outstanding Senior:

Bradley Scott ThomasManagement and Organizations Outstanding Senior:

Albert WilsonAccounting Outstanding Senior:

Gabrielle GeeseyManagement Information Systems Outstanding Senior:

Ryan Kolofer

Congratulations to all Rhino Pub

520-867-8123 • 1118 E 6TH STREET

Rhino Express is open!

Espressos, Hot/Iced Lattes, Smoothies, and

Assorted Pastries

WEEKLY DRINK SPECIALS•$2 Rhino Brew & PBR

•$3Jager Bombs •$2 Tequila Sunrise •$2 Mojitos •$3

DomesticsWed & Thurs 2-4-1 Well DrinksMICROBREWS NOW ON TAP!

Parking in Rear • Free WiFiOpen 7 days a week

TOY JAM December 11th!Toys for Tots Foundation Event

16 LIVE Bands, NO COVER(with toy donation)

• Raffl es • Car & Motorcycle Show •

“It’s all about the kids!”

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

Pulkit ChadhaMaster’s in Management

Information Systems

Harish KambamMaster’s in Management

Information Systems

Seung Mi LeeMaster’s in Management

Information Systems

Scott WakefieldMaster’s in Management

Information Systems

OFFICE OF STUDENT COMPUTING RESOURCES

Elisabeth BrennerBS in History

Nick DiGiulianBS in Civil Engineering

Sean Donald DoarnBA in Interdisciplinary Studies

WEB SERVICES TEAM

William Simpson BS in Computer Science

THE 24/7 IT SUPPORT CENTER

Alex Hickey BS in Mechanical Engineering

We are proud of our December 2010 graduates. Our student workers are the best!

UITSUNIVERSITY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

Congratulations!

We are proud of our graduating career staff as well! Jon Moser BS in Aerospace Engineering

Residence Life would like to congratulate the following

Fall 2010 Graduates

Nicole Casavant

Aimee Crittendon

Tim Egger

Stephanie Hall

Riaz Hedayati

Nate Hockins

Lauren Ivy

Micaela Jones

Amelia Leong

Randall Lopez

Brittany Smythe

Michael Thrall

CELEBRATE DEAD DAYWITH US

DEAD DAY

DEC. 9The Great Cover-Up

After a year’s hiatus, the Great Cover-Up is back this year at the Rialto Theatre and Hotel Congress for a three-day music event. Local bands and artists are invited to perform a 20-minute set of songs that are entirely someone else’s, tweaking their music styles to match those of others. Come enjoy music played by temporary tribute bands!

The Rialto Theatre318 E. Congress St.$8 one-day pass

DEC. 10“Home Alone” 20th Anniversary

at The Loft Cinema The movie that made Macaulay

Culkin famous is back on the big screen this Friday at The Loft Cinema. “Home Alone,” believe it or not, is celebrating its 20th birthday this year, so come to the screening for a dose of nostalgia and to feel like you’re really getting older. You’ll have dozens of chances to watch it on syndicated cable networks this holiday season, but only one opportunity to see it in theaters, so bring your inner child — and keep the change, ya � lthy animal.

The Loft Cinema3233 E. Speedway Blvd.10 p.m. , $6

DEC. 11The Vandals

From Huntington Beach, Calif., The Vandals have never taken themselves too seriously, but have put out some seriously great records. The punk band was formed in 1980, toured the world throughout the decades and has � nally landed in Tucson. They’re self-proclaimed funny men, using their music to let their sense of humor shine.

Hotel Congress311 E. Congress St.6:30 p.m., $15 , All ages

Border Film Festival at The Loft Cinema With issues of immigration inundating

the national news landscape, it’s easy to forget we have such a unique experience with border relations living in Tucson. The Border Film Festival will include not only three insightful documentaries, but also a panel discussion with a local private borderland owner and representatives from local human rights organizations.

The Loft Cinema 3233 E. Speedway Blvd.11 a.m., donations appreciated

DEC. 12Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair

Celebrate the last day off before � nals week really begins by catching the end of the 41st annual Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair . Three days of celebration, crafts and delicious eats begin this Thursday at 10 a.m. Hundreds of craft booths, food vendors and unique performances will pack the street between University Boulevard and Ninth Street. Winter weather in Tucson this year has been beautiful thus far, so enjoy the fare of the fair on your day off.

Fourth Avenue10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Page 3: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B3 arizona daily wildcat • wednesday, december 8, 2010 •

UApresents is hosting “Cirque Dreams Illumination.” The spectacular acrobatic show will run between Dec. 10 and 12 and includes dazzling feats of balance, contortion and dance.

The company, Cirque Productions, has been around for almost 20 years and each Cirque performance has a theme or a destination and incorporates this journey into each production. “Cirque Dreams Illumination” will take place in a city and undergo changes to “go from ordinary to extraordinary,” said professional contortionist Robert Muraine.

The company is known for astounding performances and “Illumination” is certain to please. People balancing on precariously stacked chairs and performers one on top of the other tossing stop signs into the air, tight rope walkers and jugglers bouncing balls onto a drum set to a jazzy beat are just a few of the

acts incorporated into the show. “When you see, you’ll understand

what I’m saying; everything going on on-stage seems impossible,” Muraine said.

Putting together “Illumination” may not seem like much of a feat in the two weeks the performers spend with directors and choreographers, but the intensity with which they work for 12 hours per day is certainly an accomplishment in and of itself. The acts are already compiled. “The act stays the same and they work with the director to try to create a balance between what the director wants and what performers can do,” Muraine said.

The timing of the show may not be ideal, for most of us are busy with finals as the semester comes to a close. But if you are looking for an escape, to briefly forgo that last chapter in a textbook or the finishing touch on a project, check out “Illumination” this upcoming weekend. It’ll give you something extraordinary to talk about when you get home to your family.

We all remember those classic American folk songs that we learned in elementary school music class, songs like “This Land is Your Land,” and “Bound for Glory,” which tend to get lost among the more exciting beats of popular music today.

But these songs do have a time and place in history: many of them come from the many struggles of the working class during the Great Depression of the 1930s. And during that time, singer/songwriter Woody Guthrie was the man that brought those stories to life.

This winter, the Arizona Theatre Company reminds us of this part of American history. From now until Dec. 22, the company is bringing the musical “Woody Guthrie’s American Song” to Tucson. The show tells the inspirational story of Guthrie’s life as he journeyed across

America looking for work.The show is an interesting

reminder that these classic songs are filled with meaning, especially if we take their context into consideration. “Woody Guthrie’s American Song” uses a similar technique as the 2007 film “Across the Universe,” by tying music together with an overarching story and reminding us why the songs were written. In the musical, the characters remind us that there is something simply “clear and honest” about the everyday songs, work songs, love songs and war songs of the 1930s.

And the musical doesn’t simply rehash the tunes that we’ve heard a hundred times before. The show has adapted the songs in new ways, with various parts that create incredible sounds. The resplendent vocal harmonies of Kenita R. Miller and Sally Mayes, in particular, bring a whole new interpretation of Guthrie’s music. Likewise, throughout the entire

performance, a live band performs onstage. A quartet of talented musicians utilizes instruments such as guitar, fiddle, banjo, harmonica, accordion and bass, just to name a few.

“Woody Guthrie’s American Song” is an upbeat performance that, on more than one occasion, invites the audience to sing along, clap with enthusiasm and dance in the aisles. The show both reminds us of our nation’s history and entertains us with the stories and songs of the generations that came before us.

Mama’s Hawaiian Bar-B-Cue has opened near campus. Featuring an array of Hawaiian specialties and great hours, it’s likely to be a hit for the UA area. Open 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., Mama’s offers a great alternative to the pizza and fast food options that make up the bulk of the late-night eateries in Tucson.

Mama’s features the usual and unusual on their menu. From eggs and spam to teriyaki chicken, a broad variety of choices is available. Each lunch plate is served with white rice and macaroni salad; the teriyaki chicken is simple but satisfying. They also feature an interesting chicken katsu served with a unique ketchup-based sauce that offers a hint of Worcestershire flavor.

Beyond lunch plates, sandwiches and salads are also offered. These include a teriyaki chicken salad, beef teriyaki, chicken salad, standard hamburger and island burger. Mama’s also boasts some interesting specials, offering teriyaki wings, volcano wings and loco moco — a rice dish served with a hamburger patty and a fried egg on top.

Don’t forget dessert. Mama’s offers pineapple upside down cake, guava cake, coconut pudding and other seasonal cakes. If

you find yourself with a late-night craving for dessert, Mama’s is a great place to try something outside the norm. A little taste of Hawaii is now available within walking distance of campus. Pop in and give Mama’s a try next time you’re craving a little escape from the mainland.

By Graham Thompson ArizonA DAily WilDcAt

By Ali Freedman ArizonA DAily WilDcAt

By Miranda Butler ArizonA DAily WilDcAt

indulgencesPatriotic play unexpectedly upbeat

Courtesy of Arizona Theatre Company

if you goMama’s Hawaiian

Bar-B-Cue850 E. Speedway Blvd.

792-2350

Escape from the mainland with Mama’s

UApresents strikes balance with Cirque

if you go“Woody Guthrie’s American Song”

Temple of Music and Art330 S. Scott Ave.Through Dec. 22

arizonatheatre.orgTickets start at $35

Mike Christy/Arizona Daily WildcatThe new Mama’s Hawaiian Bar-B-Cue, 850 E. Speedway Blvd., offers up tasty island cuisine like chicken katsu and the loco moco plate.

Page 4: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B4 • wednesday, december 8, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat

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The holidays are a time for friends and families to gather and celebrate their longstanding bonds by sitting in crowded rooms and not making eye contact with one another. The winter movie avalanche is approaching, and we can all be thankful that there aren’t any titles devoted to saving and/or stealing Christmas. Here’s a rundown of the myriad movie releases to get you through the holiday break.

Dec. 10‘The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader’ (PG)

In brief: Four predestined British kids take a sea expedition through a parallel world.

Equates to: Pirates of the

Caribbean + Harry Potter – sexual tension.

Why you should care: Because you love 3D fantasy worlds, magical ocean voyages and anthropomorphic animal warriors. Because Liam Neeson voices Aslan , the

Christ-figure lion, and Simon Pegg voices Reepicheep , the swashbuckling rodent. Because nothing says “Christmas” like heavy-handed Christian allegories.

‘The Tourist’ (PG-13) In brief: Johnny Depp’s

Euro trip itinerary is altered when he is mistaken for an international criminal.

Equates to: The Bourne trilogy + “The Italian Job” + pajamas.

Why you should care: Because Depp is great at being snide in the face of death, and Angelina Jolie is great at standing around in dresses. Because you can cancel your trip to Italy after realizing how few gun-blazing boat chases actually occur there.

Dec. 17

‘TRON: Legacy’ (PG) In brief: The son of a

legendary programmer looks for his lost dad (Jeff Bridges ) inside a computer.

Equates to: “The Matrix” + “Gladiator ” – blood + spandex.

Why you should care: Because computer-generated polygons have never looked more beautiful. Because the workday goes faster when you imagine

little men battling inside your laptop. Because you can’t get wasted and enjoy “Yogi Bear.”

‘Yogi Bear’ (PG) In brief: A bear in a hat

steals food in a national park.Equates to: “Garfield,” or

“Marmaduke,” or “Scooby Doo” + nature.

Why you should care: Because kids go ape for talking animals with criminal records. Because 1961 is coming back in a big way. Because it’s the only time you’ll � nd Dan Aykroyd (Yogi) and Justin Timberlake (Boo Boo) teamed up outside of ill-conceived buddy-cop movies.

Dec. 22

‘True Grit’ (PG-13) In brief: A badass Marshal

(Jeff Bridges ) helps a girl hunt down the man who killed her pa.

Equates to: The original “True Grit” + twisted Coen brothers violence + Matt Damon .

By Brandon SpecktorARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

Happy Holly(wood)days! Remakes, adaptations and a bit of the old ultraviolence mark the holiday movie season

Page 5: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

Why you should care: Because the Coen brothers are long overdue for a Western actually set in the old West. Because Bridges deserves more of your money. Because John Wayne has already guaranteed that this is a good story.

‘Gulliver ’s Travels’ (PG)In brief: Jack Black and his

ego tower over the village of Lilliput … in 3D!

Equates to: “Night at the Museum” – history lessons + KISS references.

Why you should care: Because Black spends a fair portion of the movie in bondage. Because of the irony that Jonathan Swift would sooner eat a baby than watch this literary bastardization. Because Black is a loveable buffoon and kids don’t care about books, anyway.

Dec. 31

‘My Dog Tulip’ (unrated — The Loft only)

In brief: A curmudgeon makes friends with a rescued German shepherd.

Equates to: “Marley & Me” – Owen Wilson’s nose + animation.

Why you should care: Because you and your whole family love dogs — especially the heartwarming animated kind. Because there is no bond stronger than that between a man and his bitch. Because hand-drawn films are a beautiful, dying breed and you should enjoy them while you can.

Jan. 7, 2011

‘Season of the Witch’(PG-13)

In brief: Nicholas Cage ditches the crusades to escort a witch to her inquisition.

Equates to: “3:10 to Yuma” + “Robin Hood” + a sexy magician.

Why you should care: Because messy 14th century bloodshed is the best way to get in the mood for new classes. Because “Swordfish” director Dominic Sena knows cool. Because we trusted Cage to save the Declaration of Independence; he might as well save humanity.

B5 arizona daily wildcat • wednesday, december 8, 2010 •

College Outstanding SeniorKristina GerbothNutritional Sciences

Departmental Outstanding SeniorsRobert BacheAgricultural and Resource Economics

Julie JacksonNorton School of Family and Consumer Sciences

Katherine MacFarlaneAnimal Sciences

Erica K. MoreyAgricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Blaine MorrisAgricultural Education

Michael PriestSchool of Natural Resources

Utimio TrujilloSoil, Water and Environmental Science

College Meritorious Graduate Teaching Assistant – Ph.D. LevelLeah PenrodAnimal Sciences

College Meritorious Graduate Teaching Assistant – Master’s LevelSusanna PearlsteinSoil Water and Environmental Science

Babcock, EstherBanuelos, JaimeBerkompass, JustinBorgmann, KathiCabeza De Baca, TomasCinti, AnaCorkery, ShannonDennison, ReneeDoumas, SandraHeckman, KatherineHeinze, Brian

Heuberger, SharonHodges, TanyaKaltenbach, JamesKim, Jung-KyunKubista, KatharynLanan, MicheleLey, JosephMasayesva, AnnaMiller, JessicaMiranda, VictoriaMorrison, ChristopherNaima, Sidrotun

Pearlstein, SusannaQashu, SusanRaisch-McDonald, AmandaRice, DavidRogers, YuxiSarkar, PriyancaSchlomer, GabrielScholz, MatthewShirai, YumiSoria, RodrigoTang, ChuanyiVanderlugt, Kyle

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Outstanding Graduates

Doctoral and Master’s Graduates

Page 6: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B6 • wednesday, december 8, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat

As we enter the holiday season, full of festivities and merriment, Tucson’s very own ZUZI! Dance Company offers yet another reason to give thanks and revel in this time of year. Along with celebrating its 11th year at the Historic Y in downtown Tucson, this year also marks the 13th performance of ZUZI!’s annual “Solstice Celebration,” the company’s signature performance.

Unlike traditional holiday dance performances, “Solstice Celebration” provides an alternative celebration to the Christmas holiday. In contrast to nutcrackers and other symbols associated with the season, the show touches more on the influence of nature and the ambience associated with the changing of the seasons, particularly the winter solstice.

“Dec. 21 signals the beginning of winter and is the shortest day of the year,” said Nanette Robinson, co-founder and artistic director of ZUZI!. “There are so many stories surrounding this time of year because it can be such a hard season. Throughout history, it has been a time when communities have seemed to be more connected. In many cases they came together for survival.”

For the ZUZI! Dance Company, this year’s show in particular pays homage to this sense of coming together. In commemoration of its 13th year of “Solstice Celebration,” the “Best of ZUZI! Solstice Celebration,” will not only feature new and original works by ZUZI! company members, but it will also include some of ZUZI!’s best and most memorable works from past “Solstice” performances — showcasing the spectacular artistry the company has created from its many years of coming together to reflect and bring meaning to the season.

Founded in 1998 by Robinson and Nancy Mellan, ZUZI! Dance Company has become renowned throughout Tucson for its eclectic performances. More than a display of artistic talent, ZUZI!’s performances embrace a deeper significance for the art. “Dance is more than just doing steps,” said Robison. “It is about making connections, meaning and

renewal through movement. (ZUZI!) is for people that really want to move in a way that connects them to their authentic selves.”

Not only do company members hold a solid foundation in classical technique styles, including ballet and jazz, but the dancers also draw on a wide range of movement disciplines, such as Skinner Releasing Technique, dance therapy and aerial dance, to provide an inspiring and enriching

performance experience. Robinson assures that “Best of ZUZI!” will be no different.

“The show will feature a lot of aerial work,” Robinson said. However, she noted that the work is far from being a circus act. Instead, the dancers

“literally integrate dance in the air,” Robinson said.

In addition to aerial dancing, “Best of ZUZI!” will also include original choreography by ZUZI! Associate Artistic Director Beth Braun Miscione and ZUZI! company members Alison Hart, Sara Anderson Stewart, Nicole Sanchez and Ekidai Laurie. In turn, former company member Nathan Dryden will also make a special guest appearance on the ZUZI! stage. Dryden currently travels internationally, teaching aerial technique. Other special features of the performance include live musical accompaniment by Pablo Peregrina.

‘Solstice Celebration’ a natural take on the season

By Dallas Williamson ArizonA DAily WilDcAt

Photo courtesy of ZUZI! Dance Company

if you go“Solstice Celebration”

The Historic Y738 N. Fifth Ave.

Call 629-0237 for more info

Page 7: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B7 arizona daily wildcat • wednesday, december 8, 2010 •

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Even as the semester draws to a close, a group of beginning music and acting BFA students will take to the stage to begin their university performance careers tonight.

“Loesser is More!” joins the freshmen acting students’ Freshman Debut with the talents of Encore! , a freshman musical group.

The performance celebrates the 100th birthday of the Broadway composer Frank Loesser , who wrote music for shows like “Guys and Dolls.” Loesser “wrote over 700 songs,” many of which were contemporary during the ’40s and ’50s and played consistently on the radio, according to Rob Gretta , the director of Encore! and an assistant professor of musical theatre.

“He is a great composer for the students to learn from,” Gretta said. “He’s a pretty big composer.”

“Loesser is More!” combines biographical information on Frank Loesser with performances of his work.

“Peppered through musical numbers are dialogue and biographical parts on Loesser,” said Lisa Pierce , the director of marketing and development for the School of Theatre, Film & Television. “It bridges the gaps and helps the audience get from one portion of the show to the next.”

Because of the sheer quantity of Loesser’s work, not all of it will be featured.

“All of the music is going to be done by the musical students,” said Pierce. “He wrote a ton of stuff, so they’re going to do a montage of some of his well-known work.”

The music and acting students began rehearsing together this week.

“It’s really good to have them come together and bond as a freshman class,” said Gretta. “It’s a really great collaboration.”

According to Gretta, projects like this help students grow and “develop ensemble skills.”

Each year, the collaboration between Encore! and the Freshman Debut students offers a lively presentation of some of Broadway’s best.

“This helps students springboard into performing, as freshmen, in front of an audience,” said Pierce. “They learn how to hold themselves on stage to perform.”

Because this collaboration is so often the � rst college performance for many freshmen, audiences get a unique opportunity.

“Audience members hone in on a certain student, and they get the privilege of watching that particular student grow as a performer,” said Pierce. “Sometimes it’s unbeknownst to the student.”

“Loesser is More!” will show tonight at Marroney Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.

By Johanna WillettARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

Theatre freshmen debut

“It’s really good to have them come together and bond as a

freshman class.”— Rob Gretta, director of Encore!

Page 8: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B8 • wednesday, december 8, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat

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Wishes You a Safeand Happy Holiday!

The arrival of the holiday season always brings its customary slew of new video game developments. Whether marketing new games or new technology, big companies like Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo all want you to do your holiday shopping with them.

Usually, this isn’t a problem since the newest product is typically the best available. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case this year. Despite wonderful innovations like Xbox 360’s Kinect, PlayStation 3’s Move and the Wii … wait, Nintendo didn’t really do anything new.

The point is, these “revolutionary” gaming technologies have just been released and are being shoved down gamers’ throats. They’re more gimmicky than anything and hardly have the kind of entertainment value gamers want. Plus, since it’s all so new, it’s also buggy. Wait to buy any of these until some real developments are made.

So then, what are you supposed to buy for your special gamer this holiday season? There

are a couple of games you can’t go wrong with, like Ubisoft’s spectacular “Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood” or Activision’s “Call of Duty: Black Ops,” but there isn’t much else out there.

So let me help you, Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo. Here’s what you need to do if you want gamers to stay excited about what you’re doing.

Microsoft’s Xbox 360The 360 is arguably the best and most

popular game console out there right now. There are always quality games to play on it and there are also a few you can’t get on another system.

The Kinect has just been released too, giving a new hands-free aspect to gaming on the 360, but it’s really just an attempt to create a suped-up version of the Wii. To their dismay, it hasn’t worked out that way yet. Granted, it’s still a young addition, but the novelty of new games wears off quickly, and some of them are practically impossible to play.

Still, the Kinect isn’t what they need to really focus on. Everyone knows it was a matter of trying to get a piece of the lucrative motion-gaming pie. Instead, they should have just focused on coming up with a new innovation that isn’t remotely similar to anything gamers have seen

before. Real innovation rather than copycatting would solidify the Xbox 360’s spot at the top.

Sony’s PlayStation 3Only recently has the PlayStation 3

seen the success people thought it would have on its release. After struggling for years, sales are picking up. The Move is apparently doing well, but it’s also a knockoff of the Wii, which isn’t what Sony needed either. Lucky for them, the Move functions better than the Kinect, but, again, it shouldn’t be their priority.

What Sony needs are more exclusive titles. At this point, while the PlayStation 3 has a fine series in the form of “God of War,” there isn’t much else worth mentioning. Yes, exclusive titles exist, but hardly any have become truly memorable in the face of Nintendo’s Mario or Microsoft’s Master Chief and Marcus Fenix. Sony once had the “Final Fantasy” series exclusively for years, but those days are gone.

At this point, there’s hardly anything PlayStation has that you can’t get on an Xbox. PlayStation 3 needs to prove to developers that a title on only their system will still be widely successful.

Nintendo’s WiiFor a long time, Nintendo has done very

well by appealing to casual gamers. Yet, despite the monetary success, they’ve lost the majority of their hardcore gaming fan base. Only the most loyal remain, and even those numbers are dwindling. The Wii has become more of a toy than a real gaming console, aside from the occasional new releases in their oldest and most beloved series — like Mario, Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong or Kirby.

That’s exactly the problem, though. Nintendo is stuck in the past. Yes, there are new games, but these characters are ancient. No one is ever going to complain about getting a new game in any of these series, but they need something no one has seen yet. Mario and the gang will always have a place in gamers’ hearts, but the stagnant Nintendo could use a new addition to the gang.

We want games, not gimmicks

Jason KrellArizonA DAily WilDcAt

Page 9: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B9 arizona daily wildcat • thursday, december 2, 2010 •COMICS

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Page 10: Arizona Daily Wildcat Wildlife Edition — Dec. 8, 2010

B10 • wednesday, december 8, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat wildlife

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The end of 2010 is three weeks away, but I still haven’t been able to read, watch and listen to everything I wanted to this year. So consider what follows to be an incomplete list of highlights from 2010 and thus subject to change after New Year’s Eve.

Movies“The Tijuana Project,” “Ana’s

Playground” and “Celestial Avenue” were shown at The Screening Room as part of the Arizona International Film Festival , and they were among the best � lms I’ve seen this year. “Inception” demonstrated that a movie, even a big-budget summer blockbuster, doesn’t have to eschew a smart plot in order to achieve success.

TVWe are spoiled with riches when

it comes to TV. The premiere of “The Walking Dead” proved that there’s still life, so to speak, in exploring the aftermath of a zombie apocalypse. “White Collar” oozed with style and fun as Matt Bomer’s suave, convicted con artist Neal Caffrey matches wits with criminals and his FBI handler, Tim DeKay’s Agent Peter Burke . Although I came late to it, the latest season

of “Mad Men” is just great. After a wobbly second half in its � rst season, “Glee” returned this fall with a con� dence that matched its popularity.

“Modern Family” surprised me in that its faux

documentary approach masks a sharp, satirical look at what it means to be an American family today.

MusicSome of the best songs successfully mixed

excavations into the past and imagined excursions into the future. Big Boi’s “Shutterbugg” throws in references to the Wu-Tang Clan and Soul II Soul on top of an addictive chorus crammed with synths and talk box work à la Roger Troutman . Robyn’s “Indestructible” is perfect. Just go � nd it on YouTube or Soundcloud . Ted Leo & The Pharmacists had a great album, The Brutalist Bricks, and a great concert in Tucson to match . Only they could pull off a song like “Bottled in Cork ,” which opens with a line about a United Nations resolution and ends with the line, “Tell the bartender, I think I’m falling in love.”

Other songs worth checking out: “How I Got Over” by The Roots featuring Dice Raw; “In the Dirt” by S. Carey; “Stop the Music (Justus Köhncke, Kompakt remix)” by The Pipettes; “Bloodbuzz Ohio” by The National; “Woah Billy!” by Lucky Soul; “Pow Pow” by LCD Soundsystem; “Tightrope” by Janelle Monae featuring Big Boi; All Day by Girl Talk ; “I Want You” by Cee-Lo Green.

Comic booksRoger Langridge and Chris Samnee

surprised me with their lighthearted take of the Asgardian god of thunder in “Thor: the Mighty Avenger.” Grant Morrison doesn’t hold back on the ideas on Batman, which � nds Bruce Wayne turning his personal crusade into a global crime � ghting syndicate. In spite of delays, J. Michael Straczynski’s take on Superman in “Grounded” is a welcome look

at the man wearing the cape as he begins a walking tour in order

to get perspective on his life. While it didn’t do well at the box of� ce, the � nal volume of Bryan Lee

O’Malley’s “Scott Pilgrim” proved to be a great ending and featured

a newcomer from the UA, Aaron Ancheta. John Layman and Rob Guillory continued to impress with “Chew,” especially with their very special Thanksgiving chapter.

Commentary by Steven Kwan

Best of 2010A personal list

’Tis the season — throw a log on the fire, mull some cider and put on some Christmas tunes. We all know the classics, but here’s a collection of must-have albums for this holiday season.

Sufjan Stevens Songs for Christmas (Recorded 2001-2006)

Indie artist Stevens puts his classic multi-instrumental, elaborate spin on classic songs such as “Silent Night” and

“Little Drummer Boy,” supplemented by nostalgia-drenched instrumentals such as “Put the Lights on the Tree” and “Angels We Have Heard on High.” The five-EP set, Songs for Christmas, is definitely a diverse collection of festive tunes.

Vince Guaraldi Trio A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Soundtrack to one of the most beloved Christmas specials of all time, jazz composer and pianist Vince Guaraldi’s Peanuts

debut gives listeners a chance to celebrate with the lush sounds of 1960s jazz. A good album to play anytime, especially if you want to class up your Christmas activities.

Mariah Carey Merry Christmas (1994)

When it comes to Christmas classics, Carey’s album is a no-brainer. Whether you like it or not, you probably know all the words to “All I Want for Christmas Is You” at this point in your life. Not to mention that high-emotion occasions and Carey’s voice seem to match all too well.

Nat King ColeThe Christmas Song (1963)

Besides the title track, celebrated vocalist and pianist Nat King Cole keeps his soulful promise in this famous Christmas album. Other notable

tracks include “O, Holy Night” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.”

Bob DylanChristmas in the Heart (2009)

While some might fear a Bob Dylan Christmas album as the union of two parallel universes, Dylan’s nasal-y crooning is paired with

instrumentation that keeps the album an expression of folk roots that is disarmingly appropriate.

Doctor Octoroc 8-bit Jesus (2008)

If you get sick of the classics, Doctor Octoroc’s collection of brain-melting videogame sound synth rendered in the sounds

of Christmas is an interesting diversion. An album of chip tunes, each song on this nine-track album has a different theme based on the video game, which the sounds came from; tweaking out to “We Three Konami” and “Super Jingle Bros.” is a refreshing alternative to usual festive tunes.

By Kellie MejdrichARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

Holiday tunes to season your spirit