With wins over BYU and New Mexico last week, Utah is in a three-way tie for first place in the Mountain West Conference, along with UNLV and San Diego State at 5-2 in conference play.

The rally on Friday might have gained a 15-second spot on the nightly news, but it will take more students contacting their representatives via phone, e-mail or in person to bring about any influence.

U researchers are working to develop a less-complex six-legged robot using the same idea of a robot that can walk and roll if necessary.

The last team to do it was Utah two years ago, and the Red Rocks did it again as they got the best of the No. 11 Oregon State Beavers 197.050 to 196.650 on Friday night in Corvallis, Ore.

J. Walt8212;part computer geek, part rock star8212;created entire digital worlds in a live animation performance called "Spontaneous Fantasia" at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts Friday.

The Runnin' Utes spent all week in practice preparing to face a tough New Mexico press8212;and the focus paid off for Utah as it overcame the press en-route to a 69-68 win over the Lobos.

Young players like freshman Jordan Cyphers. Past abusers like Carlon Brown and Tyler Kepkay. Although BYU made the mistake of unlocking Nevill from his usual cage, most teams will double-, triple- and even quadruple-team the 7-footer. The Utes will go as far as the role players will carry them.

One thing is for sure8212;come next election, the excuse that you don't have an opportunity to be part of the process won't fly anymore. If you decide to stick with the TiVo instead of casting your ballot, you'll just be another member of that loathsome species, Ignoramus Americanus.

It can be difficult to develop a willingness and interest to hear new ideas, but this Friday, participate in the Jumaa Prayer at the Union. Attending will give a richer and fuller understanding of another culture and the beliefs. We can do our part to break down false stereotypes by investing our time to understanding and relating better to our neighbors.

For the second straight game, the Runnin' Utes found themselves in a battle with one of the Mountain West Conference's best8212;and in the end it was the same story, but a different hero.