2011.12.06 by The Badger Herald

THE UNIVERSITY VERSITY OF WI WISCONSIN’S ISCONSIN INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER ER SINCE E1 1969 969 SPORTS

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Tuesday, December 6, 2011

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ARTS

| HEISMAN

MoneyBall indeed: Ball named Heisman finalist

NEWS | ROSE BOWL

| REVIEW

The Roots follow up a provocative ‘Fallon’ performance with an equally provocative 13th album. | 8

After an already dominant season, Montee Ball was named 1 of 5 finalists for college football’s most vaunted trophy. |

Going, going, gone! Student season ticket holder vouchers for the upcoming Rose Bowl Game sold out within minutes Sunday evening. | 2

Choo choo!

An Olbrich’s Holiday Express brings seasonal spirit to all of the Madison community as it rounds a lap Monday afternoon. A small admissions price will score anyone a peek at a number of large-scale model trains, with the main attraction changing on a daily basis. Malory Goldin The Badger Herald

Cullen could enter recalls Dem. senator announces potential candidacy if fight against Walker reaches necessary mark Leah Linscheid Deputy State Editor

‘The Onion’ makes splash at UW Alums return to paper’s homeland to embed satirical journalism principles in students Julia Skulstad News Reporter Two University of Wisconsin alumni returned to satirical newspaper The Onion’s hometown last night as part of the Wisconsin Union’s Distinguished Lecture Series. Joe Garden and Carol Kolb gave audience members an inside view of the fake news source to a background of laughter during the evening’s programming. The lecture started by comparing The Onion

to other news outlets, including CNN, The New York Times and The Badger Herald. Compared to these sources, Garden said The Onion was on top with 100 “trillion” readers, putting CNN in second place with its five trillion. For journalistic integrity,The Onion scored a perfect six out of six, while The New York Times scored at a five and The Badger Herald at a zero, “because they have no journalistic integrity whatsoever,” Garden

said. “We’re all friends, and I feel bad showing you people these charts,” Kolb said amid laughter from the audience. Garden and Kolb also featured some of The Onion’s popular articles and video clips. Headlines drawing some of the most attention from the audience included: -“I’ll Be Able to Get This Big Pot of Chili Over to My Friends House if I Put on These Roller Skates” -“Guy in Philosophy

Class Needs to Shut the Fuck Up” -“Governor Walker Should Be Flogged for his Inability to Control his Underlings” -“Child Bankrupts Make-A-Wish Foundation With Wish for Unlimited Wishes” Following their presentation, Garden and Kolb opened the floor up for questions, and the lecture took on a more serious nature. Both Garden and Kolb said the thought

THE ONION, page 4

Amid a heated recall atmosphere with accusations of damaged petitions, a state senator has emerged as a potential candidate to face Gov. Scott Walker if a recall election is triggered. Sen. Tim Cullen, D-Janesville, CULLEN recently expressed interest in running against Walker in a recall election if enough signatures are collected. According to Democratic Party of Wisconsin spokesperson Graeme Zielinski, Cullen would pose a significant threat to Walker as a credible candidate because of his history of bipartisanship in the Legislature, a characteristic Zielinski said is sorely lacking under Walker’s administration. “Cullen would be a serious candidate because he’s somebody who knows the value of compromise,” Zielinski said. “He is a strong voice for moderation in an atmosphere that’s been poisoned by Walker, who is a candidate that rules by fear. Cullen, in comparison, would rule by compromise and consensus.” Zielinski also said there are many stakeholders with an interest in seeing Walker recalled, and independents, progressives and Republicans will all have a say in which candidate will be chosen to run in the recall election. United Wisconsin spokesperson Meagan Mahaffey said in an email to The Badger Herald that the organization is solely focused on getting enough signatures to trigger a recall election and does not intend to play a role in

selecting the candidates to run against Walker. Mahaffey commented on the success of United Wisconsin’s recall efforts, stating in her email that more than 300,000 signatures have been collected at last count, many in historically conservative counties. According to both Mahaffey and Zielinski, defamation and other acts against the recall efforts occurring across the state have not affected the movement’s success. One such defamation act took place in Chippewa Falls, where a 68-yearold woman destroyed a “Recall Walker” sign owned by petition volunteers. According to Chippewa Falls Police Capt. John Liddell, the woman pulled her vehicle up near the volunteers and appeared as though she wanted to sign the petition. She instead ripped up the petition and drove away, yelling at the volunteers. Liddell said the volunteers recorded the woman’s license plate and plan to press charges. The woman was not immediately taken into custody, but the police report will be sent to the Chippewa Falls district attorney for formal charges of criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct. A similar situation is being investigated in West Bend, where 30-year-old Jeffery Karnitz is being charged with two counts of defacing recall petitions for both Walker and Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, a felony in Wisconsin. West Bend Police Lt. Richard Lucka said Karnitz scribbled out names on two petitions in a residential neighborhood in West Bend. Ben Sparks,

CULLEN, page 4

Night in UWPD footsteps highlights campus culture A ride-along with an established officer offers insight into drinking problems Pamela Selman News Content Editor An evening in the life of a University of Wisconsin Police Department officer entails a wide array of tasks, ranging from patrolling murky and secluded areas of campus to aiding house fellows in monitoring incapacitated students. Officer Tanner Gerstner said the job comes with moments of absolute terror, whether it be the 10 minute drive from campus to detox, praying the individual in the backseat keeps bodily fluids inside or going from a routine traffic patrol to pursuing an armed suspect at a moment’s notice. While the excitement was relatively low Saturday night, Gerstner’s patrol took him to the nooks and crannies hidden in

the crevices of Madison. His night began with a drive through dark and unpopulated areas of the city, checking parking lots of temporarily deserted campus buildings and the pathways of the eerily dark Arboretum. “It doesn’t happen all too often, but sometimes we see drug deals, gang-related activity or sometimes even prostitution back here,” Gerstner said as he drove through the Arboretum’s stretch with the vehicle’s sidelights gleaming. “We’ll also catch kids out here engaging in [sexual activities], but we’ll send them home because it’s not good to be out here in a dark area where they might not know where exactly they are and aren’t capable of paying attention to their surroundings.” After a clean sweep and a stop at the Eagle Heights housing lots “just to make [UWPD’s] presence known around here,” Gerstner continued patrol of the campus area, highly concentrated

with intoxicated students roaming between bars and house parties. While checking in on the area’s parking garages to ensure no suspicious behavior was in the works, a call came over the radio asking for officers to respond to a house fellow’s call to 911 for an incapacitated resident. Arriving on scene, Gerstner was met by the primary officer heading the call, an additional backup officer and a team of three volunteer emergency medical service personnel. Despite registering a .14 blood alcohol content level, the student residing in Jones House on the lakeshore was medically approved by the EMS team. UWPD did not hand out a ticket on the spot, but after pouring out the remainder of the student’s alcohol and telling him to stay in for the night, the student was instructed UWPD officers would return the next night to discuss what went wrong, how the student was feeling

UWPD, page 2

Malory Goldin The Badger Herald

Members of MEChA believe no policy violation occurred in original plans to co-sponsor an event and asked SSFC to lift the negative mark against the organization. After debate, the committee ultimately agreed the multi-cultural student group had not actually gone against SSFC guidelines.

Proposal advances to create student internship network Katie Caron Campus Reporter A student government committee recommended an idea to create a student internship service on campus that would provide a central database for students

during a meeting last night. Associated Students of Madison Intern David Gardner presented the student intern service idea to the Student Services Finance Committee to be evaluated. “Because they’re

becoming more and more competitive, there is a need for people to have some assistance in finding internships,” Gardner said. “There’s a lack of outreach, and people aren’t advertising internships

INTERNSHIP, page 4

The Badger Herald | News | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Events today 6 p.m. A Nation in Debt: How Can We Pay the Bills?

TODAY

TOMORROW

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

32 15

31 17

29 17

24 12

33 26

mostly sunny

partly cloudy

mostly cloudy

flurries

mostly sunny

The Pyle Center

Student government set to negotiate Mifflin plans

7 p.m. Bhopali: A movie on the Bhopa gas tragedy The Marquee Union South

Events tomorrow

UW stakeholders, city to search for common ground on block party

9 a.m. International opportunities advising 301 Ingraham Hall

Alyssa Smith News Reporter

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Stephanie Moebius The Badger Herald

The Badgers will take on the Oregon Ducks in January during the Rose Bowl in front of an expected full audience. Student tickets to the game sold out before all interested fans could secure them for $150.

Prices soar after bowl sells out Despite immediate outage for upcoming game, UW says more tickets could come Matt Huppert State Editor A day after the Badgers secured the Big Ten Championship, University of Wisconsin students took to the Athletic Department website, where tickets for the Rose Bowl quickly sold out. Justin Doherty, spokesperson for the Athletic Department, said student tickets for the Jan. 2 game quickly sold out after they went up for sale on the department’s website at 9 p.m. Sunday. Tickets for the general public also sold out rapidly during a sale Monday morning, Doherty said. The department received more than 24,000 Rose Bowl tickets to sell this year. The preliminary tickets were sold internally within the organization to players, coaches and staff members in the Athletic Department. Tickets then became available for non-student season ticket holders and Athletic Department donors who requested tickets from Oct. 31 through Nov. 30. There is a slim chance for students to still purchase tickets from the Athletic Department, Doherty said, as some tickets may be returned in the next few weeks. This sometimes happens when tickets are set aside for a particular group, for example the Athletic Department staff, and not enough are purchased within that group. “There is a chance that some more tickets become available,” Doherty said. “I would encourage [students to] periodically check with the ticket office late this week and early next

UWPD, from 1 about the situation and issue a ticket. The underage student was not taken to detox, Gerstner said, because he was not visibly incapacitated and was deemed capable of taking care of himself through a detox evaluation. “We test how oriented the person is by asking the date, time and place, and then we ask questions to divide their attention to determine

week.” Last year, the Athletic Department received more than 34,000 tickets. Doherty said the department receives fewer tickets for bowl games when the Badgers’ opponent is in the Pac12. He said there are no travel packages available through the university but said other groups, such as the Alumni Association, are providing travel to Pasadena.

Members of the University of Wisconsin’s student government will co-sponsor a meeting with the Madison City Council to collaboratively debate the future of the Mifflin Street Block Party, members of a student government committee decided Monday. The meeting is scheduled for Dec. 8 as a way to begin dialogue among student residents within the wider community concerning the future of the Mifflin tradition. The Mifflin Street Block party has been a UW tradition for more than 40 years and has been facing resistance in regards to next year ’s preparations from both Madison residents and city officials, according to Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, who attended the meeting. This resistance, Verveer said, comes as a result of last year ’s violent incidents in which two students were stabbed during the event. Although city officials have not yet started planning, Verveer said he realizes the Mifflin Street Block Party will not go away overnight

and stressed the importance of starting dialogue early. “It is critical to have a wider campus discussion,” Verveer said. The meeting will take place at the Madison Senior Center located at 330 W. Mifflin St. at 7 p.m., and students are encouraged to attend. It will not involve any police presence in an effort to obtain true student input, Verveer said. The results of an

“It is critical to have a wider campus discussion [on the block party].”

Mike Verveer

District 4 alder

earlier student survey regarding Mifflin are also likely to be released, he added. Associated Students of Madison Rep. Karen Scott spoke about the Legislative Affairs committee’s endorsement of the meeting, stating that if the Mifflin event is important to students as a student organization, it should be sponsored. Verveer also touched on the Nuisance Party Bill, which aims to hold landlords more responsible for problem tenants engaging in negative behaviors such as house parties with large numbers and loud

noises. The bill states landlords will be notified in the event of a police intervention in a house party disturbance. Verveer said the bill will seek out “landlords who take a hands-off approach to tenants and problematic tenant behavior.” Still, Verveer said the ordinance would also be able to go after students who continue the violation after police interference and subject them to further fines. The bill, which is undergoing revisions, is likely to be discussed further at the next Alcohol License Review Committee meeting scheduled for Dec. 21, Verveer said. The committee also took up responsible action policy at the state level during the meeting. The policy currently states that protection is granted to an individual who calls for assistance in regards to another intoxicated individual who may require medical attention. However, the committee is working to grant protection to the students who are being helped as well, Legislative Affairs Chair Hannah Somers said. Members of the committee said they believe the best option is to get this legislation passed at the Board of Regent’s level first and then focus on its approval in the Legislature. “It’s our most winnable option,” Somers said.

“I love football, and I feel like it’s an event that’s best witnessed live. I can’t wait to be with all the Badger fans, cheer in the spirit of UW.” Sami Ghani UW junior

UW junior Sami Ghani said he bought his Rose Bowl ticket on his iPhone while on a bus coming back from a Mock Trial event in Illinois. He said he plans to carpool to Pasadena with several friends to the game. Ghani said he would most likely have sought out Rose Bowl tickets through another venue had he not received bowl tickets during regular purchasing times, regardless of the steep price increase that often occurs when tickets are purchased. “I love football, and I feel like it’s an event that’s best witnessed live,” Ghani said. “I can’t wait to be with all Badger fans, cheer in spirit of UW.”

cognitive capacity,” Gerstner said. “My favorite is asking whether Mickey Mouse is a cat or a dog while making hand gestures — intoxicated people often have trouble sticking with their choice.” Officers on the squad are also renowned for asking evaluation subjects whether an elephant or the moon is larger, making smaller gestures while mentioning the moon, Gerstner said with a chuckle. While college campuses are notorious for fostering

Malory Goldin The Badger Herald

Legislative Affairs Chair Hannah Somers believes asking the UW Board of Regents to approve an amnesty policy for students who are underage and need assistance is the best preliminary option in order to get legislation seriously considered by the state.

drinking cultures, Gerstner said students at UW rarely drink purely in a social climate. “It’s not ‘let’s have a social drink,’ but instead it’s always ‘let’s get drunk,’” he said. Still, Gerstner, who started out in the manufacturing industry, said law enforcement on the UW campus is an especially unique profession, and he is enjoying his time protecting and aiding the community. “It’s a common misconception that we’re

out here to get you guys when the reality is we’re here to help and protect and work by crime prevention through environmental design,” he said. “The belief is we get some sort of reward for writing tickets and executing busts, but that’s simply not the case.” Because Madison is a college town, the officer said, UWPD has few other tools capable of deterring negative and illegal behavior based on the city’s transient population. While Gerstner said it is

easy to momentarily lose faith in humanity as a law enforcement officer, it is necessary to remind those in blue that the world is a good place with a few bad eggs. “In a perfectly ideal circumstance, no one should have to worry about being a victim, but we live in a deviant world and you cannot eliminate all of the deviant people,” Gerstner said. “Madison is certainly a very low city for crime comparatively, but that does not mean we’re free of it.”

The Badger Herald | News | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

City examines plan for future Commission hears updates in downtown development planning, cultural institutions Molly McCall News Reporter A city committee considered proposals outlining development and cultural plans in Madison’s downtown area Monday. Co-project Manager William Fruhling presented the city’s Downtown Plan at the Plan Commission meeting, laying out nine keys to the future of downtown Madison, emphasizing the importance of the plan’s first tenet: celebrating the lakes. The first key focuses on the eastern edge of Law Park, looking to turn it into a signature park by pushing the shoreline back and making it more accessible for boaters to tie up and go downtown, Fruhling said. The plan recommends placing land bridges over John Nolen Drive to increase accessibility. Fruhling said the end

result would hopefully present a “true community gathering place.” In addition, a lakefront path stretching across three miles of Lake Mendota is included, Fruhling said. According to the plan, the path is approximately 77 percent complete and focuses on the unfinished segment between James Madison Park and Lake Street. Fruhling said the plan recommends maximum building heights set downtown in order to preserve the “postcard” view of the skyline, mainly the city’s iconic Capitol. Other focuses include enhancing the livability of students, the elderly and families with children, increasing transportation options and offering more bicycle and pedestrian facilities with the main objective for downtown Madison to become a “model of sustainability,” Fruhling said.

Zhao Lim The Badger Herald

William Fruhling, co-project manager for the Madison Downtown Plan, tells commission members the city’s future plan involves nine key points with a priority on celebrating the lakes. “This plan is about getting the fundamentals right and having a clear vision for the future grounded in enduring principles that will assure a successful future,” according to the plan, which is available on the City of Madison’s website. The Downtown Plan was introduced to the City Council Nov. 15 when it was referred to 14 boards, commissions or committees. Each group will forward its recommendation to City

Council after the plan has been reviewed and discussed. The Madison Cultural Plan was also introduced to and approved by the Plan Commission at Monday’s meeting. Georgene Pomplun, artist and Dane County Cultural Affairs Commission chair, called the plan a “cultural vision” as it entails goals and recommendations as opposed to a specific plan. “The Madison Cultural Plan 2011 is a five-year

action plan to advance Madison’s position as a center for creativity and innovation,” the plan said. The plan looks to forge a partnership with the public, private and cultural sectors, Pomplun said. Commission member Tonya Hamilton-Nisbet recommended allowing more business members onto the art commission, saying it “makes sense” and should be made a stronger point of the plan. Ald. Marsha Rummel,

District 6, expressed concern over what the city should do and how city staff will be incorporated. Rummel thanked the presenters but said she was hesitant as the plan depends on contingencies from other plans, which may not work out. Commission member Anna Andrzejewski said she applauded the commission on their emphasis on public and private partnership, calling it “rewarding and essential.”

Funds to aid wrongfully-convicted could see increase State proposal starts circulating to allow $50,000 to offset court’s wrongdoings Michael Kujak State Reporter A group of bipartisan legislators introduced a bill Monday that would increase the yearly-allotted funds to free innocent convicts up to the federal level of $50,000 per year. According to a statement released by the bill’s supporters, this would be an increase from the current compensation levels of $5,000 per year

THE ONION, from 1 process of each of the paper ’s writers involves what goes on within each individual’s head and can vary with each writer. “It’s whatever I happen to be obsessed about at any given time, usually dolphins or technology,” Garden said. Garden later added, “Sometimes life just gives you Herman Cain.” When asked if The Onion had ever been sued, Kolb emphasized constitutional rights. She also added that publicity from suing The Onion would not be worth much anymore as their news has an established reputation for not being credible.

INTERNSHIP, from 1 as much as they should be.” Rep. Laura Checovich said she was in support of the preliminary idea because it would serve many students on campus and is something students would be interested in. Disagreeing, Rep. Tia Nowack said she thought the idea was valid but she did not feel comfortable using student segregated fees to fund the service with the state of the economy and impending budget cuts. As a result of Monday’s meeting and

with an aggregate cap of $25,000. The statement also said the bill includes several measures to help freed convicts re-enter society successfully. These measures include access to social services and other forms of financial assistance helping reimburse the freed convict for attorney and court fees spent during the trial. Keith Findley, University of Wisconsin law professor and codirector of the Wisconsin Innocence Project, said the bill updates freed convict compensation. Findley said Wisconsin is ranked last in compensation for

states with plans, and this issue has not been addressed in more than 30 years. “There’s no science to figuring out what those years are worth,” Findley said. “Most would say there is no sum of money that we’d take for the total destruction of our lives that can be caused by a wrongful conviction. It’s just a matter of doing the best we can, and what this reflects is that we should comply to the federal norm of $50,000 per year of wrongful imprisonment.” According to Findley, the court system is not designed for those who are not supposed to be in

“There’s a little thing called the First Amendment, and it has served us very well,” Kolb said.

would not want to do it, while Garden emphasized that this type of inaccuracy takes away from the humor of the paper. The two ended their time by explaining how to use satire as a tool to examine subjects or issues in an effective way to bring important issues to the public in relation. This, they said, is how The Onion has impacted society. UW freshman Andrew Schultz said he found the lecture to be both a fun and entertaining experience. “The lecture was interesting in how you could tell from the way they talked that their workplace was the same as their writing: fun and laid back,” Schultz said.

“It’s whatever I happen to be obsessed about at any given time, usually dolphins or technology.”

Joe Garden “The Onion”

Still, Garden and Kolb agreed that research remains an integral part to their writing process. Kolb used an example of spelling Obama’s name wrong and how a writer

in accordance with the Campus Services Process, SSFC Chair Sarah Neibart will create a procurement board made up of ASM and SSFC representatives to determine how the service will be implemented. The body will then contract out to groups wishing to provide the service. During its meeting, SSFC also rescinded a policy violation on the part of Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán, deciding the occurrence did not constitute a violation after tabling the issue from last Thursday’s meeting. Last week, Neibart

reported to the committee that a violation occurred when MEChA handed in

“Because they’re becoming more competitive, there is a need for people to have some assistance in finding internships.” David Gardner ASM Intern

a co-sponsorship form for an event put on with

prison. Findley also said the wrongly convicted face more than just monetary costs. “They come out having lost their jobs, housing, family, friends and connections to the community,” Findley said. “They suffer from depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. It’s hard to get employment, because how do you explain a 15 to 20 year gap in your resume?” Findley also spoke about the range of social services the bill would provide, citing counseling, access to health care, employment and housing assistance. Stacy Harbaugh,

Wisconsin American Civil Liberties Union spokesperson, noted the benefits of the financial services that would be provided once the freed convicts were released. “There are really basic things that those who are re-entering into society need, like housing transportation and securing an ID card,” Harbaugh said. “Those are things they get right out of prison, but that’s just the first couple of weeks. It’s also overcoming the stigma and reintegrating for the long term.” Harbaugh discussed a man who was wrongfully accused of rape and recently released from

CULLEN, from 1 spokesperson for the Republican Party of Wisconsin, said in an email to The Badger Herald that the party does not condone any misconduct during the ongoing recall process and encourages citizens to contact their local law enforcement should they witness any unlawful behavior. Sparks also commented on recall misconduct on the part of recall volunteers. “Through the Recall Integrity Center, we’ve received details regarding numerous incidents of misconduct,” Sparks said in the email. “Many individuals affected have expressed reservations about going public out of fear of intimidation and harassment and wish to keep their identity private. We have documented these incidents and will keep them internal at this time.”

Wunk Sheek later than the designated deadline. In addition, she said the group did not end up paying for the event because the entertainer said he did not want to receive payment. Rep. David Vines said he felt no violation occurred because no segregated fees were spent, and since Wunk Sheek did not end up contributing monetarily to the event, there was no co-sponsorship involved. MEChA CulturArte Director Jeanette Martin also argued that no violation had actually taken place. “Just because of symbolism and

prison, saying the man worked with the Wisconsin Innocence Project to get to his conviction analyzed. When he was released, there was little structure of support for his re-entry into society. According to Harbaugh, this is a common problem for the wrongly convicted. “Those who have been wrongfully convicted face huge hurdles to try to reintegrate and assimilate back into society,” Harbaugh said. “For those who are wrongfully convicted, it would be a great step forward, and it’s a pleasure to see that there is bipartisan support [for this bill].”

Progress of Recall Walker signature drive Just two weeks ago, Wisconsin liberals began their campaign to get 540,208 valid signatures to recall Walker and Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch. They’ve made it past the halfway mark ahead of schedule.

Current and projected number of signatures by 6 days

by 14 days

by 60 days (deadline)

100,000 300,000 REQUIRED PREDICTED

RECEIVED RECEIVED

540,208 750,000

SOURCE: United Wisconsin

solidarity, Wunk Sheek was on the flyer,” Martin said. “I organized the event. I wasn’t paid, and there wasn’t any money put into printing flyers except for one.” Rep. Dan Posca said he felt it would be irresponsible of the committee to ignore the way the group turned in its co-sponsorship form late, and he felt a violation had been incurred. SSFC ultimately voted to rescind the violation with a majority vote. The committee also voted to fine Badger Catholic $94.20 for a wage policy violation incurred when a staff

member worked 10.5 hours over the allowed 20 hours per week. Badger Catholic Chair Nico Fassino sent a letter to the committee apologizing for the group’s second wage policy violation this year. In addition, the committee unanimously approved Greater University Tutoring Service’s 2012-2013 budget of $164,983.69. Supporting Peers In Laid Back Learning also presented its proposed 2012-2013 budget of $67,980.80. SSFC will reach a decision regarding the budget during Thursday’s meeting.

Opinion

Editorial Page Editor Allegra Dimperio oped@badgerherald.com

The Badger Herald | Opinion | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Walker administration brings big business jobs Vincent Borkowski Staff Writer

Associated Press

The United States Congress Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction was created in August as an effort to reduce the U.S.’s debt crisis. The committee concluded on Nov. 21, having reached no real bipartisan solution.

Supercommittee failure reflects warring factions Joe Timmerman Staff Writer The recent failure of the congressional ‘supercommittee’ is yet another addition to the already long list of reasons why Congress’ approval rating is hovering around 9 percent. By the way, things that are more popular than Congress include, but are not limited to: the Iraq war, polygamy, communism, pornography (is that really a surprise?) and the BP oil spill. In any case, this failure to find a compromise will trigger $1.2 trillion in automatic budget cuts over the next 10 years, split roughly evenly between defense and Medicare. The supercommittee’s failure is a symptom of the real problem in Congress: the unwillingness of both sides to compromise. Actually, balancing the country’s budget will require both parties to agree on two issues they currently don’t agree on at all. First, Democrats need to be open to entitlement reforms. It doesn’t take a genius to look at budget projections and see that spending on entitlement programs like Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security is unsustainable — and growing. As America undergoes a demographic shift, with baby boomers retiring in droves, there simply aren’t enough working Americans to support current levels of entitlement payouts. For the time being, Democrats are avoiding the subject of entitlement reform. From a political perspective, this makes sense. Being able to portray themselves as defenders of Medicare and Social Security helps Democrats attract

the senior citizen vote, something they have historically struggled with. However, it’s bad policy, and it’s bad for the country. To truly address the deficit, entitlements will have to change. This will be neither easy nor popular, but it has to happen. Democrats aren’t the only ones at fault. The second thing that needs to happen to close the gap in the budget is for Republicans to put tax increases back on the table. It simply is not realistic to expect to close a $1.3 trillion deficit each year solely by cutting expenditures. Despite what some Republicans might say, much of what the government does is good and actually necessary for the country to flourish. By signing Grover Norquist’s pledge to vote against any tax increase, Republicans are making it nearly impossible to balance the budget. The good news for Republicans is that increasing taxes doesn’t necessarily have to come in the form of increased tax rates. By closing loopholes, a significant amount of revenue could be raised without actually increasing the tax rate. This is also an excellent opportunity to reform the tax system, making it more efficient and streamlined. Besides figuring out what needs to be done, there is also the question of when to do it. Those calling for immediate austerity are simply wrong. In the midst of a nascent recovery, the last thing the world economy needs is for the United States to adopt a contractional fiscal policy. If the situation in Europe doesn’t do it, immediately balancing the United States’ budget

will go a long way toward pushing the economy back into recession. Thus, closing the gap in the budget right now is not only a poor option, but a dangerous one. Instead, the government needs to lay out a credible plan that involves further short-run stimulus, medium-term deficit reduction, and a longterm balanced budget. By continuing to stimulate the economy in the immediate future, the government will help spur further economic growth (and avoid another recession.) This will actually help reduce the deficit in the long run because a stronger economy leads to increased tax revenues. Once the immediate danger of a double-dip recession has passed, it will be time to start closing the deficit. It’s also important that the deficit reduction happens gradually, not all at once. If the budget is balanced all in the same year, this shock could pose a significant risk to the economy. Thus, after a period of deficit reduction in the mediumterm, the budget will be balanced in the long-term. And it should stay that way. Like much of the developed world, the United States has dug itself quite the hole. Digging its way out will be a difficult and drawn out process, but it must happen. Luckily, closing the deficit need not bring down the economy with it — if it’s done correctly. The real issue now is whether or not Congress can come together to do what’s best for the country.

Despite hatred and intolerance from the lefties, Gov. Scott Walker’s ideas for a better Wisconsin are working. There can be no more arguing (unless of course the left decides to ignore facts and chooses to continue living in their ignorant world). Many, many jobs have come to our fair state since Walker’s inauguration. Now yet another company is adding its name to the list: The company Spectrum has decided to stay in Wisconsin. Spectrum, a huge company, is the manufacturer of such brands as Remington and Rayovac. For those on the left who are unaware of the beauty of non-government-owned businesses, allow me to point out that a large company with successful business practices (and no huge taxes from the government) means that more jobs are created along with more money available in the economy as the business expands. This fact seems to be lost on the doubters, who still claim that Walker is “killing Wisconsin.” Before the left gets their panties all in a bundle, let me make things crystal clear: Businesses staying in Wisconsin and hiring more people equals jobs for citizens and a better economy. The state offered a bonus to Spectrum (a smart move, and one that has been done in the past to keep business in the state and lucrative) and now Spectrum has

announced that 60 new people will be hired. Hundreds more jobs will be kept because they have remained in Wisconsin. Liberals must be anti-jobs; they must be if they are protesting the governor who has created so many jobs and kept hundreds more. The liberals must be anti-working class also. Maybe that’s the grand plan of this whole recall thing. The left is just looking to create a state of leeches and parasites on their way towards destroying Wisconsin and establishing a welfare state. And it’s not only Spectrum. Generac, Ruud Lighting and Modine Manufacturing Company have added numerous jobs since our governor’s inauguration. Businesses do not add new jobs unless they are confident in the state economy they are a part of. This is how a government is supposed to work. If you want economic growth and the unemployment rate to drop, you help businesses create new jobs in your state. Opposing the governor at this point would be opposing the creation of new jobs. One can’t help but think that had the governor been on the other side, he’d be praised ceaselessly by the liberal media. I can just see the headlines now. Every job that he created would be tattooed on the hearts of the American public. Had Walker been wearing a blue jersey instead of a red one, he’d be St. Scott by now. Instead, the liberal

media ignores these reports that Walker is creating jobs, while instead it spoon-feeds the gullible public their daily serving of propaganda. Walker’s plans are working. New jobs have been created, the economy of Wisconsin has been saved and his opponents are nothing but jealous. They may complain that they have to chip in more money for their pensions, but the huge debt our state is in means the state can’t pamper us anymore, and the money needs to come from somewhere. Collective bargaining rights may be an issue for some (e.g. the people who make loads of money off them), but it seems a small price to pay for the deliverance of our economy. The national economy is still in the crapper (thanks to our spend-happy president) and yet as a state we’re able to anticipate a surplus for next year’s budget. I can only hope Walker’s next year is as successful as this one. There are no scandals to tarnish his name (look at Obama’s Solyndra scandal and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett’s dumping of millions of pounds of sewage into Lake Michigan if you want to see some political figures who could use a recall). I can only hope that the puppets of the left throw off the chains of oppression their elitist masters have placed on them and see the truth: Walker is correct. Vince Borkowski (vborkowski@wisc.edu) is a junior majoring in

Joe Timmerman (jptimmerman@wisc.edu) is a freshman intending to major in economics and math.

Putting a price on free speech not worth the steep cost Reginald Young Columnist Gov. Scott Walker’s administration unveiled a new policy Thursday that would hold demonstrators liable for police and repair costs. The administration defended the bill saying it simply “clarifies existing rules.” In addition to enforcement personnel time and damage costs, the

police could also require advance payments or liability insurance. In “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King, the famous activist posited that “one who breaks an unjust law must do so openly, lovingly, and with a willingness to accept the penalty.” This is the heart of free speech; in opining, one needs to be able to live up to the consequences. This seems to justify the administration’s policy of holding demonstrators liable for their protests. But does it really? Edward Fallone, an

assistant professor at Marquette, notes that “you can’t really put a price tag on the First Amendment.” Money has always played, and continues to play, an ever increasing role in politics. It is incredibly important that demonstrators be able to deal with the consequences of any free speech exercise. But what if those consequences limit the ability of some groups to express themselves more than others? Such consequences, I have no doubt, would be struck down in any court. Sure, they might,

on paper, apply equally to all. However, the reality is that the middle and lower classes will always have a harder time bearing any such costs than the upper class will. Chris Ahmuty, the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin, points out an especially worrisome facet of the policy: state officials could charge or require insurance of different amounts according to their own personal interests. The administration needs to qualify this part of the policy, or there will be

some serious questions of ethics raised every time it is invoked. Free speech is intended to be exactly that: free. Wouldn’t charging protesters and requiring their buying of insurance be akin to the poll taxes southern states once imposed on voters? Yes, they apply to all, but they burden some groups much more than others, in the same manner requiring voter IDs would. But I cannot say I am all that surprised. Walker likes to run Wisconsin like a business, instead of a political institution. His

policies seem to only be based in wishful economics, not the reality of the citizens on whose behalf he is supposed to work. The administration’s new policy, on its face, seems economically justifiable. But when one looks deeper, one must acknowledge it will burden certain demonstrators more than others. Like so many things in politics, the face value description is misleading. Reginald Young (rcyoung3@wisc.edu) is a junior majoring in legal studies and Scandinavian studies.

Your Opinion · Send your letters to the editor and guest columns to oped@badgerherald.com. Publication is based on space and takes into account relevance and quality. Letters should be sent exclusively to the Herald. Unsigned letters will not be published. All submissions may be edited by the Herald for length and style. Reader feedback on all articles and columns can be posted at badgerherald.com, where all print content is archived.

Comics

Are You Not Entertained? Noah J. Yuenkel comics@badgerherald.com

The Badger Herald | Comics | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

WHAT IS THIS

SUDOKU

HERALD COMICS

PRESENTS

U WHITE BREAD & TOAST

toast@badgerherald.com

MIKE BERG

NONSENSE? Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9. What? You still don’t get it? Come, on, really? It’s not calculus or anything. Honestly, if you don’t know how to do a sudoku by now, you’ve probably got more issues than this newspaper.

TWENTY POUND BABY

DIFFICULTY RATING: Feeding Christians to lions

HERALD COMICS

PRESENTS

baby@badgerherald.com

STEPHEN TYLER CONRAD

YOURMOMETER

LAURA “HOBBES” LEGAULT

C’EST LA MORT

PARAGON

yourmom@badgerherald.com

HOW DO I

KAKURO?

I know, I know. Kakuro. Looks crazy, right? This ain’t no time to panic, friend, so keep it cool and I’ll walk you through. Here’s the low down: each clue tells you what the sum of the numbers to the right or down must add up to. Repeating numbers? Not in this part of town. And that’s that, slick.

paragon@badgerherald.com

The Kakuro Unique Sum Chart Cells Clue 2 3 2 4 2 16 2 17

DIFFICULTY RATING: Feeding lions to Christians

MOUSELY & FLOYD

Possibilities { 1, 2 } { 1, 3 } { 7, 9 } { 8, 9 }

3 3 3 3

6 7 23 24

{ 1, 2, 3 } { 1, 2, 4 } { 6, 8, 9 } { 7, 8, 9 }

4 4 4 4

10 11 29 30

{ 1, 2, 3, 4 } { 1, 2, 3, 5 } { 5, 7, 8, 9 } { 6, 7, 8, 9 }

5 5 5 5

15 16 34 35

{ 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 } { 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 } { 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 } { 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 }

6 6 6 6

21 22 38 39

{ 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 } { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 } { 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 } { 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 }

7 7 7 7

28 29 41 42

{ 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 } { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 } { 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 } { 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 }

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44

{ 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 } { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 } { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 } { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 } { 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 } { 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 } { 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 } { 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 } { 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 }

ehmandeff.badgerherald.com

MADCAPS

HERALD COMICS 1

PRESENTS 5

pascle@badgerherald.com

29 32 38

random@badgerherald.com

ERICA LOPPNOW

CROSSWORD

24 30

38 39 40

40 43

RANDOM DOODLES

RYAN PAGELOW

BUNI

madcaps@badgerherald.com

MOLLY MALONEY

48 49 50

Puzzle by Kristian House

PRIMAL URGES

primal@badgerherald.com

ANDREW MEGOW

MODERN CONSERVATIVE MOVEMENT

THE SKY PIRATES

COLLIN LA FLEUR

DENIS HART

mcm@badgerherald.com

skypirate@badgerherald.com

Across 1 Course in the biology dept. 5 Prize won by Obama and Carter 10 Pickle containers 14 Rogen of “Knocked Up” 15 Strong adhesive 16 Black cloud or black cat, to some 17 Do-it-yourselfer’s activity 19 Spanish sparkling wine 20 Came next 21 Compares (to) 23 With 51-Across, nitpick … or a hint to 17-, 37- and 60-Across 25 Aﬃrmatives 26 Turns down 29 Last word of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” 31 Altogether it’s worth the

32 34 37

41 42 43 44 45 48 51 52 55

59 60 62 63

most bonus troops in Risk Giraﬀe’s cousin Snowmobile part New York singing group that last performed in 2007 It’s “the word” Ability Digital camera mode Reminder of an old wound Tot’s enclosure Suﬃx with Kafka or Zola See 23-Across Come together Preparing to drive, with “up” Half-pint Forum cheer Govt. meatstamping org. What “O” stands for in the magazine business Knock for a loop

65 Son of John and Yoko 66 “GoodFellas” Oscar winner Joe 67 Gulp from a ﬂask Down 1 ___ Stadium (Big Apple tennis locale) 2 Vegas gas 3 Dinero dispensers 4 Bar habitué’s order, maybe 5 Replaceable part of a phonograph 6 Antonym: Abbr. 7 Blowhard’s claim 8 Interstate sign 9 Vega’s constellation 10 Big name in underwear 11 Pile up 12 Show with skits 13 Alternatives to buttons 18 Contract negotiators, for short 22 Critic of the

Get today’s puzzle solutions at badgerherald.com

selﬂess 24 Weathercaster’s pressure line 26 Chicago mayor Emanuel 27 Jacob’s twin 28 Unwilling to budge 29 Place for a facial 30 Short albums, for short 33 “___-Tiki” 34 With 57-Down, memorable

51 53

54 56 57 58

“Seinfeld” character, with “the” Charlie Brown toy that’s often “eaten” by a tree Steel component Show host ___ culpa TV’s Clampetts, e.g. Mideast bigwig Nutlike Chinese fruit Twodimensional measure Hosiery shades Drunk Post-lecture session, informally Ones named in a will Woodworking or metalworking class Superman costume part “Vidi,” translated See 34-Down Pitcher Maddux with four Cy Young Awards Fond du ___, Wis.

Rocky the Herald Comics Raccoon™ What was with that dude handing out roses to all of the Badgers after the Big Ten Championship? Is FOX doing some kind of The Bachelor crossover? I think I heard they’re taping the next episode in Pasadena.

To place an ad in Classifieds: Roshni Nedungadi rnedungadi@badgerherald.com 257.4712 ext. 311

The Badger Herald | Classifieds | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

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FOR RENT 1128 Bowen: 4 BR house next to city park with basketball, volleyball includes 2 baths, large backyard deck, living and dining rooms, central air, free laundry and free parking for up to 4 cars. $2575/mo + utils. 250-0202, tal29 S. Randall: Large 3 BR house lardapartments.com near Open Pantry on Regent/ 1316 St. James: 5 BR house in Randall includes 2 baths, living Vilas neighborhood includes 2 and dining rooms, enclosed baths, front porch, 2 refrigera3 season front porch, large tors, central air, energy efficient sharable bedrooms, central air, thermo-paned windows, free energy efficient thermo-paned laundry and free parking for up windows, and free laundry. to 3 cars. $2595/mo + utils, 250$2195/mo + utils, 250-0202, 0202, tallardapartments.com tallardapartments.com 1611 Chadbourne: Great 5 BR 3 BRs for August. 451 W. Mifflin house next to Camp Randall St. Large Apt with remodeled includes 2.25 baths, large bedKitchen & Bath, great front porch, rooms, front porch, energy efFree parking. $1445/month. ficient thermo-paned windows, GOULETTE APARTMENTScentral air, shared driveway and 238-0698 goulettepm@charter. free laundry. $2795/mo + utils net 250-0202, tallardapartments. 4 BEDROOM HOUSES- 1 Block com to Kohl Center/SERF. Parking available. MADISONCAMPUSRENTALS.COM

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PARKING Beat the snow, secure winter parking before itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gone. Parking near Kohl Center, Vilas, and Camp Randall. Prices starting at $49/month. Call Tallard Apartments at 608-250-0202. See Parking Maps on our website at tallardapartments.com

Classifieds

ArtsEtc. Editor Sarah Witman arts@badgerherald.com

The Badger Herald | Arts | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

ArtsEtc.

Meta-musical mayhem, now playing at Bartell ‘Non-musical parody of musicals’ wellintentioned, if overly raunchy, show Kate Northey ArtsEtc. Writer Raunchy, original and authentic, “Claptrapp, or The Sound of Musicals” captures theatergoers at the Bartell, a local community theater. The show pulls lyrics from over 40 musicals and combines them to create a “non-musical parody of musicals” while following the overarching setting and theme of “The Sound of Music.” The play originates from the artistic mind of Joe Godfrey and is directed by Scott Albert Bennett from Stage Q. Music lovers will be tuned into the dialogue of this non-musical,

trying to piece together the origin of the script. Though certain lines in the script may be predictable, vulgarity and a twist on gender roles spice up the performance. Dan Pietrangelo plays the role of Maria, who is hiding in the convent in order to mask her obviously male gender, of which all the characters are oblivious. However, the convent is not where Maria longs to be. She yearns to express herself sexually and win over Captain Georg von Krapp, played by Edric Johnson. However, the Captain is stuck in a toxic relationship with a golddigging, narcissistic French woman by the name of Mademoiselle Jolie Ta-Ta, played by Esther Schwarzbauer. But what Jolie does not know is that Georg is in fact gay. Maria, who constantly teases Georg with the

batting of her eyelashes and the dirty playing of her kazoo, manages to mesmerize him. The Captain’s children also love Maria, which makes it all the easier for them to run away from Austria to America and elope in the progressive state of Vermont, where they plan to adopt more children and live happily ever after. Katy Conley is masterfully uninhibited in playing both the roles of Georg’s son, Artur von Krapp and Maria’s mentor, Mother Superior. Tim Lom contributes to the dynamic cast by performing as Georg’s son Tina von Krapp and Nazi soldier Klaus Fokker. The show deftly incorporates various sound effects to hint to the audience that a musical lyric has just been referenced in the script. Upon entering the

theater, every person is given a game sheet to match the lyrical dialogue with the corresponding musical. It became a scavenger hunt of sorts, which keeps audiences engaged and on their toes.

Music lovers will be tuned into the dialogue. ... Though certain lines in the script may be predictable, vulgarity and a twist on gender roles spice up the performance. Some of the musicals incorporated include “A Chorus Line,” “Cabaret,” “Annie,” “Guys and Dolls,” “The King and I,” “Dream Girls” and “My Fair Lady.”

This fun factor, combined with a mature audience where dirty jokes and sexual gestures are welcomed, makes for an unpredictable, yet enjoyable, environment. The most impressive factor of this performance was how the show was put on with so few props and resources. Although the theater is rather small, there were three handpainted main backdrops, two chairs, a few musical instruments, five actors and a decent lighting system, with a total of only 16 people involved in the whole production. Community theaters like this exist because local Madison residents with a passion for acting invest their time into creating a comprehensive show that attracts audiences. This element of passion transfers into the show and makes for an authentic viewing experience.

This show is not exclusive to those who thoroughly know the musicals depicted in the piece, but it is definitely targeted at that group. That being said, anybody who enjoys raunchy humor, overexaggerated German accents, supporting local talent and a night of fun will enjoy “The Sound of Musicals” ... if they are 18 years or older. The Bartell is an intimate theater, where every seat in the house is a good seat — that is, of course, if Claptrapp is for you. The theater is inviting and cozy, and located just off of Capitol Square. Claptrapp plays December 1st-17th. The show is at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets can be purchased at www.StageQ.com or by calling (608) 661-9696.

THE BADGER HERALD PRESENTS LOW-FAT TUESDAY

This Christmas, gifts

good for their hearts Jenny Slattery Low-fat Tuesday Columnist

Photo courtesy of Def Jam Records

Far from their entry-music gags on ‘Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,’ ‘undun’ is a virtuosic display of The Roots’ neo-soul envelope pushing.

Deep themes, soulful backing on The Roots’ newest release Concept album exceptionally artful; ‘Undun’ a must-listen Sarah Witman ArtsEtc. Editor Late last week, Philadelphia neosoul band The Roots breathed a sigh of relief. The group feared they would be released from their ongoing two-year gig as house band for “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” after a live TV stunt involving 2012 presidential candidatehopeful Michele Bachmann and the song “Lyin’ Ass Bitch” by ’80s alt band Fishbone. The song is a lively tune, and the humorous cover by Reel Big Fish is worth a listen — but sources close to both Jimmy Fallon and the Republican U.S. Representative were less amused. Although no serious actions were taken against The Roots, the band’s drummer, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, has said he paid for his actions shortly after via the 3,500 hate-filled Tea Party supporters he was forced to block on Twitter in response to the incident. Thus, it is amid an already saturated media scene that The Roots will drop their 13th studio album, undun. The release is exceptional and thought-provoking as much as it is animated and danceable — as only a Roots creation could

be. It loosely follows the concept of a fictional character named Redford Stephens. The Stephens storyline is a major factor in the album, but one that might be impossible to glean merely from the words of the tracks — except of course number 11, titled “Redford.” However, picking up on the album’s themes of black identity — and the strained terms by which the musicians define it — is far more straightforward. Crime and violence are discussed, though if we are to accept the album as a concept compilation and narrative, these views should be those of socalled “Redford” and not The Roots’ members. The album begins and ends with artful instrumental tracks: It is one and “Dun” for the short first track before leading into the vocal tracks and eventually ending with a series of three movements written and produced by Questlove and several others. The vocal section makes up a bulk of the album, and is clearly defined by the entrance of Tariq Trotter and Aaron Livingston. Trotter was an original member of The Roots along with Questlove and utilizes a combination of soulful melodies and spoken word. The songs lead well into one another, creating a motif of journey-like advancement. “Make My,” featuring Big K.R.I.T., an artist familiar to the Madison hip hop scene,

proclaims “If there’s a heaven, I can’t find a stairway,” and repeats “I make my departure from the world,” releasing an image of transcendence and peace distinct from the confined nature of society. “The Other Side” defines this as well, as Trotter says “I always felt like I deserved more / When I make it to the other side that’s when we’ll settle the score,” speaking the words softly in a lyrical sigh. The song “Redford” is unique in more than name. It is the final track before the three-part violin finale, and the piano and Sufjan Stevens influence make it more Vince Guaraldi than Earth, Wind and Fire in form. It shows The Roots’ measured ability to play consistently beautiful music while pushing the boundaries of genre and creating provocative content. Although students can most superficially relate to the song “Sleep” this time of the semester, the entire album is a must-listen. The positivity of this release is sure to outweigh the Bachmann practical joke, and for a 13th album, undun is anything but a tired release.

THE ROOTS ‘undun’

Giving someone a gift during the holidays they don’t expect but really enjoy always feels great. Finding something interesting the recipient will appreciate and use isn’t always simple, though. Here are some great gift ideas for the fitness guru in the family, or for those just beginning their path to a healthy lifestyle. One of the easiest and most usable products is a healthy alternative cookbook. Betty Crocker has one titled “Betty Crocker Healthy Heart Cookbook.” This book is chock-full of great recipes to satisfy each and every tastebud with nutritional data included. Cooking meals benefits the body because whole foods are used, which naturally contain the vitamins and minerals the body needs to perform important bodily functions. Cooking also helps to include a variety of foods in the diet. There are books out there for everyone: vegetarians, vegans, people with gluten intolerance, etc. Know someone who’s a fanatic for hot and spicy? Have a friend who loves exploring international cuisines? Have fun with this gift, but remain vigilant. The last thing anyone wants is a book on dieting. Unless they have asked for a diet book specifically, it may be too much of an in-yourface gift. Have a traveler in the family? Try a portable gift such as a yoga mat and resistance bands. Put these together and they’ve got a gym wherever they go. Yoga mats are inexpensive and last forever. Look for them at places such as Target or Walmart. Some mats even come with beginner DVDs or other accessories and can be used for exercises other than yoga. Resistance bands are also very versatile. They can help tone arms, legs, backs and

cores. The best thing about bands is that they take up little space, so they can be thrown in a suitcase for that holiday trip. Fitness DVDs are a perfect portable gift as well. Daily goals to go to the gym after work or a long day of class don’t always pan out the way we hope, but with DVDs your gift recipient can fit in their workout without the added travel time to and from the gym. Working out at home also means not having to wait for machines to open up. Both Jillian Michaels and Bob Harper from the television show “The Biggest Loser” have workout DVDs sure to leave anyone who attempts them in a pool of sweat. The show “Dancing with the Stars” has also put out a line of fitness DVDs for

While you definitely don’t want to give someone a bathroom scale (ouch), a kitchen scale is a great gift for someone beginning a healthy lifestyle. Try out the Perfect Portions Food Scale, which can be found online at Target. This food scale is a measuring cup on steroids.

those who enjoy Latin dancing. If the person you’re buying for has a Wii or Xbox 360, take a look at Zumba Fitness’ video games. Zumba, a revolutionary Latininspired dance-fitness program, will definitely excite friends or family who enjoy a good samba. Another great gift anyone can appreciate is a new pair of running shoes. Who wouldn’t want to hit the pavement or treadmill with a fresh pair of kicks? Depending on whether you’re buying for a serious runner, or for someone who just wants something for the gym, you’ll want to do a little bit of

research. Shoes show off personality, and these days they come in hundreds of colors and designs. Find a style you think fits your recipient, or a certain shoe they’ve mentioned or looked at recently. While you definitely don’t want to give someone a bathroom scale (ouch), a kitchen scale is a great gift for someone beginning a healthy lifestyle. Try out the Perfect Portions Food Scale which can be found online at Target. This food scale is a measuring cup on steroids. On its side, it has a digital nutritional label like the ones you would find on a package. When you weigh a food it tells you how many calories in that portion size, the weight, as well as how many grams of carbohydrate, protein, fat, sodium, cholesterol, fiber and sugar. The scale comes equipped with a builtin database of 2,000 different foods, and you can enter up to 99 of your own. This bad boy also has the ability to track total daily nutritional intake to make sure you’re on track to your goals. It’s an awesome gift for someone in the family who is openly trying to lose weight, but it’s also awesome for anyone wanting to maintain a healthy lifestyle in general. I don’t know what would inspire me more to get off the couch than a brand new iPod and an iTunes gift card to fill it with motivational jams. The new iPod Nano screams “take me for a run!” Its small size and sleek design make it compact, so it won’t become a nuisance during a vigorous sweat session. The absolute best thing about the Nano? It has its very own fitness application, a built in accelerometer that tracks steps, distance, pace and time: perfect for reaching fitness goals. There are many other types of iPods and brands of MP3 players in all prices ranges, so you’ll surely find a great one. Jenny Slattery is a sophomore majoring in journalism. Want a healthier lifestyle? Send questions or comments to her at jslattery@wisc. edu.

The Badger Herald | Sports | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Eaves enjoying tough schedule Badgers set to face No. 1 Bulldogs this weekend; head coach excited about growth Austin Scher Sports Writer With top-ranked Minnesota-Duluth visiting the Kohl Center for a two-game series this weekend, head coach Mike Eaves and the University of Wisconsin men’s hockey team have worked hard to improve in practice over the last week. Following a series sweep over Mercyhurst that included 7-2 and 5-2 wins by the Badgers, Eaves said he saw many areas in which his team needed to improve, and added he used the off week to push his team. Eaves said in his Monday press conference he did see improvement during the bye week. “We felt as a coaching staff it was a productive

GRADES, from 10 65 yards on his three receptions and scored one touchdown as well. Nick Toon also finished with three catches for 34 yards, but he did have a few drops that could have kept MSU at bay. Offensive Line — 3.5 out of 5 While the offensive line gave Wilson time to make plays and Ball space to run, it did not have its best performance Saturday night. Wilson was sacked three times, and after the first quarter, Ball had limited room to run. The line was also flagged a few times, as senior lineman Josh Oglesby was penalized for two false starts in key situations, the second of which set up the infamous 4th-and-6 pass. Defensive Line — 3 out of 5 Wisconsin’s defensive line had another quiet game. The line never

week,” Eaves said. “We pushed each other in practice, we did a lot of competitive drills, we had high tempo drills, we covered a lot of details. I think we walk away from the rink this week feeling good about ourselves and ready to continue on this week and get ready for Duluth.” The No. 1 Bulldogs, who boast an 11-3-2 record overall, will be the fourth team ranked in the top five the Badgers will face this season. Wisconsin has already won two games against then-No.5 North Dakota, split a series against then-No.1 Minnesota and dropped both of its meetings with then-No.5 Colorado College. Facing such elite competition early in the season has given the Badgers experience in big-game situations, and growing from those experiences will be key in becoming a championship-caliber team. According to Eaves, competing against ranked

sacked MSU quarterback Kirk Cousins and was not able to create consistent pressure. Cousins finished 22 for 30 with 281 yards and three touchdowns. UW’s line also struggled to stop the run, as MSU’s Le’Veon Bell rushed for 106 yards and one touchdown on 18 carries. Linebackers — 4 out of 5 Mike Taylor and Chris Borland had one of their least productive games, as they had six and five tackles, respectively. Borland did notch 1.5 tackles-for-loss for four yards and one pass break-up. Kevin Claxton notched three tackles and one half-TFL. But Claxton didn’t have the best of nights, as there were many occasions he simply ran into the ball carrier rather than making a tackle. Secondary — 3 out of 5 For the second time this season, Cousins

teams makes his team better through a process similar to osmosis. “[Facing elite competition] brings out our best and gives us an opportunity to grow and maybe make some noise in terms of the national picture.” Eaves said. A large part of the Badgers’ solid effort to date has been the play of junior defenseman Justin Schultz. Tied with sophomore Mark Zengerle for the team lead in goals, assists and points with 7, 18 and 25, respectively, Schultz was named WCHA Defensive Player of the Week following a sevenpoint performance against Mercyhurst. Playing alongside Schultz in place of the injured Jake McCabe has been sophomore Frankie Simonelli, who currently sits with two goals and seven assists on the year. When McCabe went out after the fi fth game of the season, Simonelli filled in seamlessly. Although it might be intimidating

simply made a mockery of the Badger secondary. Wisconsin gave up three passing touchdowns and 281 passing yards. Senior safety Aaron Henry did finish leading the Badgers with seven tackles and had one pass breakup. Junior safety Shelton Johnson had the game’s lone interception, briefly diminshing MSU’s momentum. Specialists — 5 out of 5 Punter Brad Nortman undeniably had one of the key performances of the game. With about two minutes to go in the game, Wisconsin was punting the ball away with a small three-point lead. Nortman was able to draw a running into the kicker call that sealed the win for the Badgers. O’Neill’s essential forced fumble led directly to a Ball touchdown and proved the Badgers’ special teams finally was able to put together a strong performance against a tough team.

Stephanie Moebius The Badger Herald

Jeff Duckworth was crucial in Wisconsin’s 42-39 win Saturday night, hauling in a 46-yard heave that set up the go-ahead score.

HUGHES, from 10 winning respect — or salvaging what’s left of it. Don’t take this as a validation of the nefarious BCS’s existence. It’s a crappy state of affairs for any sport to be in. It’s just that dollars and cents keep the current design in place. And it would be hard to escape the annual controversies of worthiness. Four- or eight-team playoffs would still leave teams hanging and spark whines of disrespect. And in this game where respect is real currency, playing in the Rose Bowl is the nextbest thing to playing in a

national championship. It is a game drooling with prestige, and if you’re a sports nerd, or nerd in general, you have to love what it offers. For starters, what a thrill it must be to play in not only college football’s oldest bowl game — the 98th edition comes this year — but to play in a stadium designated a National Historic Landmark, an ultra-rarity in the world of sports. In all of college football, there are three other stadiums with such a sticker — the Yale Bowl, Harvard Stadium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Outside of college football, I couldn’t

find any other NFL stadium that holds major sporting events. Not even Fenway Park, Wrigley Field or Lambeau Field can claim such regality as the Rose Bowl. For a stadium to remain relevant these days, it’s forced to either renovate or be wiped off the face of the earth. Soldier Field’s NFL tag was removed as a direct result of its spaceshipesque renovation, and if you thought old Yankee Stadium would have been fitting for such an honor, well, it doesn’t exist anymore. Wisconsin will play on a field that has hosted five Super Bowls and

Stephanie Moebius The Badger Herald

Justin Schultz leads Wisconsin with seven goals and 18 assists for a team-high 25 points. Schultz is tied for third in the nation in points. for some to share a line with a player of Schultz’ caliber, the chemistry developed between the two has left the coaching staff more than pleased. “Justin makes anybody on the ice with him better just because of the way he sees the game, and he competes, and his skill level,” Eaves said. “I think Frankie is going to go out there and do his thing and be steady and pass and skate and be physical in front of the net. “They’ve kind of grown a good chemistry

together, and they’re feeding off of each other a little bit, so that’s been a good thing. We don’t have to rush Jake McCabe back in there with [Schultz]; we can afford to leave Frank there and see how Jake does and then go from there.” The last time a No. 1 team came to the Kohl Center, Wisconsin outplayed Minnesota, handing the Gophers their second loss of the year. Following a 2-3 start, the reigning national

champion Bulldogs have now gone 12 games without losing. But after a strong two weeks of work, Eaves and the Badgers are aiming to break that streak. “Again, I think we’re a better team from the week we had,” Eaves said. “We are very aware of the areas that we need to continue to grow on; we worked at those areas this week, and I think that’s why we as a staff say we’re a better team after this week we had together.”

HEISMAN, from 10

with the Badgers trailing on the road at Illinois Nov. 19, Ball rushed a careerhigh 38 times for 224 yards and scored another three touchdowns. “I owe them everything,” Ball said of UW’s offensive linemen. “Honestly, everything. What they’ve done for me, obviously, is great. The holes that they create, and just the leadership that they have up front, is just great. It’s something I really needed and this program needed.” In the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game last Saturday night in Indianapolis, Ball rushed

for 137 carries and three touchdowns (he also caught one touchdown pass) on 27 carries (5.1 yards per). In the first quarter alone, Ball rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries, keying the Badgers to a 42-39 victory in a muchanticipated rematch with the Spartans. “Throughout the season, it’s kind of hard to really allow the awards to soak in because you’re preparing for the next team, the next day,” Ball said. “Now, it’s that time where it’s all finally sinking in. Honestly, I just don’t know what to say.”

rollercoasters that they’re on. They’re in their element right now, so somebody that’s been through it needs to help them get through it. “So I don’t measure my discouragement, or how discouraged I am; that’s really not what it’s ever been about. The key is … you can’t agonize over what did or didn’t happen. Just break the tape down, go over it.” Three days after falling on the road 60-57 to North Carolina, Wisconsin returned to the Kohl Center, where the team had not lost in 23 straight contests. But in-state rival Marquette, in a 61-54 win, laid that streak to rest Saturday afternoon. The most glaring trend from the two-game skid was the Badgers’ shooting percentage, which dipped from a .494 success rate in the first six games to a .371 clip in the two losses. Production slipped in other areas near the rim, as well. The Badgers were out-rebounded 86-61 by the Tar Heels and Golden Eagles after leading in that category in each of their first six matches. Marquette’s defense also got the better of Wisconsin in creating turnovers, an area UW usually excels in. The Badgers averaged

7.1 turnovers a game last year and were putting up 8.1 a game until the Golden Eagles created 12 takeaways on Saturday. One area the Badgers didn’t see a slide in production, Ryan said, was their own defense. Although North Carolina and Marquette both shot better than Wisconsin in their respective matches, the Badgers still limited their opponents’ ability to run an efficient offense. The Tar Heels converted 42.2 percent of their shots from the field, including 33.3 from the arc, while the Golden Eagles worked on a 38.3 percent clip from the field and a dismal 18.2 mark from the perimeter. “I thought, defensively, we stuck to our roles,” he said. “Didn’t do some things on the boards that I think we’re better than what we showed, so shore those up and it gives you a batter chance in the next one.” Nevertheless, Ryan said he was able to take away positives from his team’s lack of success in cleaning the boards. “They’re pretty gritty,” Ryan said of his team. “Physically, we might not match up real well with some of the teams you’re going to see us play, but I really liked how hard [the team played], especially

the [North] Carolina game. If you break it down, and you go possession by possession and look at some of the things that our guys did, it’s very encouraging.” Wisconsin continues its tour of in-state rivals over the course of the next seven days with a home billing against WisconsinGreen Bay Wednesday evening and, after Saturday’s game against Nevada-Las Vegas, a short road trip to WisconsinMilwaukee. The Badgers went undefeated last season against the trio of teams from the state of Wisconsin. UW always makes a point to reserve three of their non-conference games for their neighbors, and for Ryan, a former head coach at UW-M, it’s a welcomed segment of the schedule. “Having been on both ends of it, it’s pretty exciting because not every sport at [Wisconsin] has rivalries like that within the state,” Ryan said. “Having coached at UWMilwaukee, I knew what it was like getting ready for this; you know what the players are thinking. “But still, on this end, there’s nothing like playing where there’s some familiarity, that’s for sure.”

events for two summer Olympics, the 1994 FIFA World Cup (including the championship game) and the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup — also including the championship game, which the United States won. This is a field where, literally, some of the world’s best athletes have played on, and now, for the second consecutive year, the Badgers will be aligned with them. No, Wisconsin wasn’t selected by anyone to play in this game. It earned its ticket instead. Yeah, voters might not have been all too kind to the Badgers this year, but

that doesn’t hide the fact that Wisconsin will still be earning some princely respect for appearing in this game against a worthy opponent in Oregon. You can’t attack the kind of history the Rose Bowl has in relation to its BCS counterparts, and they benefit more from people calling them prestigious, whereas the Rose Bowl is by its own nature. All you have to do is peer across Lake Michigan and compare what we have to what Michigan State has. The Spartans played a fine season (and admit it, you like Kirk Cousins and

wouldn’t mind seeing him in the Rose Bowl), but they’ll (undeservedly) be an afterthought on Jan. 2 when they appear in the Outback Bowl. The Badgers, meanwhile, will be playing in a sumptuous scene in southern California, basking in the glow of prestige — which is really what everyone else is out to get.

nation, Ball continued to emerge as more than just a traditional Wisconsin running back running behind a vaunted offensive line. Against Purdue Nov. 5, with Wisconsin in dire need of a win after two stunning last-minute road losses at Michigan State and Ohio State, Ball rushed for what were then a careerhigh 223 yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries (11.2 yards per). Ball rushed for 166 yards and scored three touchdowns the next week at Minnesota, and

UPBEAT, from 10

Elliot is a senior majoring in journalism. What are your thoughts on Rose Bowl compared to other bowl games? Speak your thoughts by emailing ehughes@ badgerherald.com or tweeting @BHeraldSports or @elliothughes12.

S PORTS Ball named Heisman Trophy finalist Sports Editor

Mike Fiammetta sports@badgerherald.com

The Badger Herald | Sports | Tuesday, December 6, 2011

UW’s junior running back heads to New York this weekend with 4 of nation’s best Mike Fiammetta Sports Editor On the night of his 21st birthday, Montee Ball received a gift he’ll never forget. Monday evening, Wisconsin’s junior running back was named one of five finalists for the 77th Heisman Trophy, awarded annually to the top player in college football. The winner will be revealed Saturday night in New York City. Along with Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III, Stanford quarterback

Andrew Luck, Louisiana State defensive back Tyrann Mathieu and Alabama running back Trent Richardson, Ball’s name was called by former Ohio State running back and Heisman winner Eddie George on ESPN’s SportsCenter. The 5-foot-11, 210-pound junior running back is Wisconsin’s first Heisman finalist since running back Ron Dayne won the trophy in 1999. Running back Alan Ameche also won the award in 1954, and Ball is now the ninth Heisman finalist in UW history. “Best birthday ever,” Ball said. “Best birthday ever. I was sitting at home, had the TV going and sat there and just watched it. As soon as [George] said, ‘alphabetical order,’ I knew if he didn’t

say my name first, I wasn’t going to make it.” After seeing his teammate quarterback Russell Wilson gain early-season Heisman hype after a stellar start, Ball has put together a dominant season. Through 13 games, Ball leads the nation in both rushing yards (1,759) and touchdowns (32) on 275 attempts, and his 6.4 yardsper-carry average is No. 4 nationally. Ball has caught 20 passes for 255 yards and six touchdowns, and his 38 total touchdowns put him within one of Barry Sanders’ all-time NCAA single-season record. One season after sharing the load in a crowded backfield with John Clay and James White, Ball emerged as the Badgers’ go-to running back not long into the 2011 season. The

Ryan upbeat despite losses

The case for Ball Despite leading the nation in rushing yards and touchdowns, Montee Ball faces an uphill battle to win the 77th Heisman Trophy. Here’s how Ball stands against the only other running back finalist:

MONTEE BALL

TRENT RICHARDSON ALABAMA

HEISMAN, page 9

SEASON 1,910 2,014 YARDS 6.0 6.4 YPC TD’s 23 38

BCS Championship

BOWL GAME

WISCONSIN

Rose Bowl Game

Grades: Offense leads Badgers to vengeance UW secondary weak, but offense thrives in 2nd half as MSU sent home empty-handed Kelly Erickson Associate Sports Editor

UW not discouraged by 2-game skid, looks at in-state rival UWGB as chance to reverse trend Elliot Hughes Sports Content Editor Zhao Lim The Badger Herald

After failing their first two tests of the season, there’s little discouragement coming from the top dog of the University of Wisconsin men’s basketball team. The No. 14/16 Badgers (6-2) dropped two consecutive games against their first ranked opponents of the season by a combined 10 points

fact that his stellar season has been bolstered by official Heisman candidacy is stunning, especially after Ball didn’t even take the field in one of last year’s biggest games against thenhenNo. 1 Ohio State. Clay and White took all the running ing back snaps for Wisconsin n in the 31-18 win, and Ball has repeatedly referred to that hat game as a significant source rce of motivation this season. “At that time, I would ld never, would never, have ve thought that I’d make it this is far,” Ball said. “I’m really y glad to see myself stick through it and really fight, fight through that situation and just stay the course.” Although his Heisman candidacy took a while to develop throughout the

Bo Ryan isn’t discouraged by UW’s play over its last two games and is confident moving forward. last week after beating up on unranked foes by an average of about 26 points. By dropping out of the top-10 rankings in both major polls, Wisconsin may have disappointed some as the basketball season entered its second month, but head coach Bo

Ryan isn’t necessarily one of them. “I don’t have levels of disappointment,” Ryan said in his weekly Monday press conference. “My job is to help people through the emotional

UPBEAT, page 9

Every week, Herald Sports will look back at the most recent Wisconsin football game and assign grades to each position group on a scale of zero to five. Here’s a look at how Wisconsin edged out Michigan State 42-39 for the Big Ten title and a berth in the Rose Bowl Jan. 2. Quarterbacks — 5 out of 5 Russell Wilson was named the game MVP for a specific reason — without him, Wisconsin’s offense might just be lost. Wilson completed 17 of 24 passes for 187 yards and three touchdowns.

While he had an undoubtedly productive day, his most notable pass was not even for a score, it was Wisconsin’s very own bit of good karma. On 4th-and-6 from the Michigan State 43-yard line, Wilson avoided a tackle and heaved a pass to the far corner where sophomore wide receiver Jeff Duckworth caught it for a 36-yard completion, setting up the go-ahead touchdown that came on the next play. Running Backs — 5 out of 5 Junior Montee Ball gave a Heisman-worthy performance — and the voters agreed Monday evening, naming him one of five finalists for the vaunted trophy. Ball had yet another four-touchdown game with three rushing and one receiving. After a 105-yard first quarter, MSU figured out how to stifle Ball, though he still

finished with 137 yards on 27 carries, an average of 5.1 yards per carry. Tight Ends — 4 out of 5 Jacob Pedersen had two clutch plays for the Badgers, recovering the game’s lone fumble — forced by linebacker Conor O’Neill on a MSU kick return — and converted a two-point conversion that gave the Badgers a three-point lead. Wide Receivers — 4 out of 5 The wide receiving corps stepped up in key moments for Wisconsin. On top of the 36-yard fourth-down conversion, Duckworth caught the first touchdown of the game — the first of his career — and finished with three receptions for 53 yards. Jared Abbrederis led UW’s receivers with

GRADES, page 9

Prestige awaits UW in Pasadena Elliot Hughes Look Hughe’s Laughing Now In a way, this will be sort of difficult to admit, but a large portion of my sports-watching career was spent struggling to consider that the idea of going to the Rose Bowl — or any BCS game that wasn’t the national championship — was as exciting of a thing as people made it out to be. And before you land on me like an anvil, note the past tense. For the longest time I couldn’t help but feel the Rose Bowl — or, again, any bowl game that was not the national championship game — was merely a consolation prize. It was like in youth soccer tournaments when everyone would be given a tournamentissued ribbon afterwards while two teams got to play for a trophy and one kept it. It was like saying, “Everybody wins! But this other team wins more! Thank

you for playing!’” Those sentiments have slowly receded ever since Bret Bielema began wielding teams with flashy top-10 tags on them. As a born-andraised Wisconsinite, I was too young to fully experience Barry Alvarez’s teams, but once Rose Bowl possibilities seemed real again with Bielema, I began to really sense a divide between Pasadena and whatever Florida and Texas had to offer (outside of the Orange Bowl). But even when I was standing in section 112 of the 97th Rose Bowl, the thought still creeped in my head — especially when Wisconsin lost — that it was just a consolation prize, anyway. I can say now, though, without reservation, that I have since exterminated that idea, and anyone else who feels what I felt should do the same. I just had to realize that college football is a game of inequality and is, therefore, not always a game about winning a championship. Due to its structure, this game is sometimes just about

HUGHES, page 9