Mystician 75.2 by BSC Mystician

Volume 75 | Issue 2 | November 2013

Photo by Morgan Brinkman

The town of Leith, N.D. is anything but welcoming for some of the people living there. With the growing newcomers, the original townspeople question the place they call home and how to keep a safe environment. Turn to page 7 to find out more about the White Supremacists living in Leith.

Student Health Care More on Page 5

Futuristic Technology More on Page 8

BSC has â&#x20AC;&#x153;Proofâ&#x20AC;? More on Page 15

Mystic Ladies on the Rise More on Page 22

Mystician Editors Letter From The Editor Sarah Morris

Kaitlyn Olson

senior editor

athletics editor

Tawnie Reisenauer

Josie Gereszek expression editor

perspective editor

Morgan Brinkman

Derek Lee news editor

design editor

Mystician Staff Tiffany Grannis Rachel Kary Blake Nemecek Tanner Purintun Morgan Keel

Kelsie Seiler Alex Stavig Jordan Bitz Jade Eagle Kenneth Mitchell

Listento

November 2013

Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday:

One evening, I was about to enjoy some delicious grapes. Washing them off in the sink, I decided to just rinse them all and put them in a container. Digging through the messy cupboard trying to find a corresponding lid was about the same as trying to grab a penny in a grain bin full of wheat. Opening the container, ready to slide the reddishpurple fruit in, I stopped in horror. The stench of mold wafted up into my nostrils, followed by a disgusting, bitter smell. Rotting corn was the culprit. Somehow, instead of putting the leftover corn from a meal that was eaten whoever knows how long ago in the refrigerator, the container had made its way into the cupboard. Out came the bleach as I looked upon black and green mush. About gagging, I disinfected it, then I stuck it in the dishwasher, hoping to get it clean. Perhaps the bleach was doing funny things to my mind. I don’t know. But I began to ponder the idea of intertwining this revolting situation with a lovely little life lesson. Sometimes, as people get older or move around, relationships get put on the shelf. Like the corn situation, a person can get busy and forget about them. Something that good and nourishing can become bad. If a person forgets their past relationships, something that was once very nourishing to the heart may become bad and old. Often these connections will never again be recovered, and if they do, many will be not as strong. We all change. That was a fact shown in the transformation of a bright, yellow vegetable into a multicolored, smelly slop. It’s great when a person meets new people and develops new relationships, but we should not forget what made us draw toward the people we used to hang out with in the past. So try not to totally forget about your past. Give those people a text or call, send them a letter or invite them to a party. It may be too late to save the corn, but the container that is holding it may still be alright.

SarahSenior Morris Editor

MystiCast Staff Jerrod Schumacher Jordan Bitz Tiffany Grannis Roxanne Johnson Leslie Kindseth Taylor Kindseth Derek Lee Mercer Sage

Taylor Kindseth 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Jordan Bitz 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 pm. Leslie Kindseth 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Jerrod Schumacher 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. Tiffany Grannis 11 a.m. – 1 pm. Nicci Johnson 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Derek Lee 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Mercer Sage 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

The fashionable Nicci Johnson works at Plato’s Closet. Read her story on page 8.

Mission Statement The purpose of college media is to serve and give voice to its students. We, as student journalists, are expected to provide content that is informative, fair and concise. With this goal in mind, this newspaper is dedicated to striving for accuracy and maintaining ethical practices. The Mystician strives to be objective and is not affiliated with any organization. This publication upholds the principles guaranteed by the First Amendment and utilizes these rights to bring diverse, entertaining and thought-provoking material to our college community.

www.mystician.com

Inspiration Page 5 Health fair and campus care Page 4 A closer look at Obamacare

Page 6 Human Trafficking

Page 7 White supremacists in Leith

Page 8 Plato’s closet

Page 8 Future technology Photo by Morgan Brinkman

Healthcare Changes Confusing Many:

A Closer Look At Obamacare

Being sick can be hard, especially for a student far from home. Living in dorms, many young adults find the weighty responsibility of taking care of oneself. No longer is a parent or sibling around to bring tea or a warm blanket. Instead, a sick student will have to decide to either get out of bed or sweat it out. Bismarck State College Dakota Nursing program along with University of North Dakota Center for Family Medicine collaborated to make medical care more accessible to students. BSC recently opened the Student Health Center on campus, creating a refuge for students, staff, and faculty that are ill or have other health concerns. “They are providing the nurses, we are providing the physicians” Dr. Denise McDonough, attending doctor at the Student Health Center and physician at the UND Center for Family Medicine, said. Located on the West side of the Armory, the Student Health Center was once the former mail room. Last fall, the idea emerged to create a place where students could go get medical care on campus. Remodeling began in May, with donations of furniture, an exam table, and student artwork filling the space. A number of services are provided at the Student Health Center: mental health (counseling and/or medication,) sports physicals, immunizations, reproductive health, acute injuries, and acute health (colds, strep throat, bladder infections, and influenza.) “You wake up one day and you are not feeling well and you don’t know what is going on,” Dr. Jean Gustafson,

reporter

Medicaid mandate. People previously denied may be eligible for Medicaid now. There are other options for those not eligible for Medicaid as well. The Marketplace offers tax subsidies and cost sharing for those four times or below the national poverty limit, which is the measurement of the need for welfare or other government assistance. In 2013, the government calculated 40 percent of the poverty limit as $45,960 annually for an individual, or $94,200 for a family of four. If obtaining health coverage would equal more than 8 percent of an individual’s annual income, they’re exempt from the federal mandate completely. For those who are provided insurance through the workplace, it is not necessary to register on the Marketplace. The website states those that want to sign up on a Marketplace plan can do so, but reminds consumers they will not be qualified to receive subsidies if their employer offers a workplace plan. For those who fail to enroll in an insurance plan by Mar. 31 2014 and are not exempt, there will be a fee of $95 or 1% of an individual’s yearly income, whichever is higher. Even individuals without questions regarding enrollment may be wondering how it will affect their insurance coverage. For the first time in U.S. history, a law requires a minimum standard of coverage for new insurance plans. “There are a fairly limited number of benefit changes between our products today and the metallic products,” said Luther Stueland, Director of Health Policy Impact and Exchange Operations at Blue Cross Blue Shield. “Some benefits are added due to ... requirements and some are removed due to the benchmark plan chosen by the North Dakota Insurance Department. There will be differences in deductibles, out of pocket maximums, co-pays and coinsurance percentages and, of course, the related premiums.” For more information, visit peoplepress.org.

The law requires insurers to offer benefits such as: preventive health care • hospitalization • laboratory services • adult and child vaccinations • prescription drugs • rehabilitative services and devices • chronic disease management • well-woman visits • birth control • domestic violence counseling • STI and HIV screening • mental health and substance abuse services • maternity and pediatric care

November 2013

Sarah Morris senior editor

Jade Eagle The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, known colloquially as “Obamacare,” went into full effect Oct 1. However, many Americans seem confused over what this entails and how to enroll. The Affordable Care Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama Mar. 23, 2010. The first changes went into effect later that year, and provisions will continue until 2020. While the law has been controversial, it was held up by the Supreme Court as constitutional, with the exception of a section allowing the government to withhold Medicaid funding if states refused to raise the income level necessary to enroll in the program. This Oct., the Marketplace website launched. The online Marketplace hosts several insurance plans from private insurance companies inside the state for consumers to purchase. Despite the recent developments in the ACA, only 25 percent of Americans understand the law “very well”, according to a Pew Poll this past Sept., while 39 percent reported that they understand it “somewhat well.” The same poll reported that 34 percent have little or no understanding of the law or how it will affect them. So how does this insurance mandate affect students of Bismarck State College? Insurance companies are now required to allow children and young adults to remain on their parent’s plans until the age of 26. For many students, nothing will change at all. For those who are uninsured, the first step is to visit www.healthcare. gov, and create an account, which automatically directs to North Dakota’s Marketplace. Consumers will answer a brief questionnaire about their income and smoking habits. The website then displays options and costs for a plan (known as metallic plans: tiered as bronze, silver, gold and platinum in order of coverage levels) or advises those eligible to sign up for Medicaid. North Dakota is one of the states accepting and going forward with the

Care on Campus the head doctor at the Student Health Center, and doctor at the UND Center for Family Medicine said. If a person comes into the Student Health Center and needs a prescription, they will send it in to the UND Center for Family Medicine pharmacy. But a person does not have to go far to receive the medicine. “By the end of the time that our clinic is open, the prescription will be here so you can pick it up,” Dr. McDonough said. “You don’t have to actually travel anywhere to get it.” If a student has insurance, the charges can be billed out or a payment plan can be set up. “If they are feeling like they can’t pay for anything, they can try and apply for our Charity Care Services, if they have no insurance,” Jodi Myrvik, business manager at UND, said. Convenience is one of the main advantages of having a Student Health Center on campus. “It is a clinic that requires no travel, unless it has to be referred and then they would not have another initial visit charge,” Suzie McShane, RN and instructor for the BSC Dakota Nursing Program, said. If a person needs more medical care or has to stay longer than the average appointment, they may be referred to a hospital or the UND Center for Family Medicine main clinic, where they may be treated with IVs and will be able to stay and recover. Though the plus side of a clinic on campus is mainly for those receiving medical help, the ones giving the care are also benefited. Rosette Cavo is a student in the RN program at BSC. Same-day surgery, hospital rotations, labor and delivery,

Photo by Sarah Morris

The Student Health Center recently opened at Bismarck State College. Dr. Jean Gustafson (L) is the main doctor at the Student Health Center. Rosette Cavo (R) is a Sophomore in the BSC Dakota Nursing Program. mother and baby, and Custer Health are all clinicals that these students get to experience, and the Student Health Center is also included in their learning process. “There are 22 of us, so we will all rotate through here,” Cavo said. “One of us will come Tuesday and Thursday. Our Instructor will be here with us.” Nursing students will be able to do a number of things while they are at their clinicals at the Student Health Center. “We will be rooming the patients and doing their vital signs and taking their chief complaint – finding out what’s wrong with them and what brought them in here,” Caro said. They may also clean wounds,

give injections and assist in minor procedures such as stitches. “I think it is helping with clinic experience,” Cavo said. The clinic is open Tuesdays from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and Thursdays from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Students who need to get an appointment may call the day of or just walk in. To get an appointment scheduled, the number is (701) 224-2670, and calls will be taken only during open hours. “I’m excited,” said Cavo. “I think the students are going to benefit from it because it is convenient. I think you would be more apt to use it because it is here.”

BSC Health Fair Aims to Make People Healthier Tiffany Grannis reporter

Graphics courtesy of Pew Research Center from people-press.org. Some benefits of the law include: Insurers prohibited from denying coverage to anyone with a pre-existing condition. Insurers cannot discriminate against women and same-sex couples. Lifetime caps on medical bills removed www.mystician.com

Photo by Morgan Brinkman The Health Fair had multiple booths showing the dangers of unhealthy living as well as showing healthier ways for students to life by. www.mystician.com

Bismarck State College once again aimed to make people healthier by hosting a health fair Thursday Oct. 10. Gateway Pharmacy provided blood sugar and cholesterol screenings and also vaccinated people from the flu. People who attended were able to enjoy a free lunch and get a winter survival kit if they were among the first 150 to complete a punch card. Door prizes were also given out at the fair. The Bismarck Cancer Center, one of

the booths at the fair, made people more aware of cancer. It provided people with information on radiation treatment. Rachelle Berlanic and Marketing Director Sarah Kelsch said they see about 500 patients a year within a 200mile radius of Bismarck. “We offer a variety of radiation treatment,” Kelsch said. Other businesses, like St. Alexius Medical Center, offered different screenings so people could find out what their blood pressure and cholesterol numbers were.

November 2013

Awareness Brought to Human Trafficking Josie Gereszek expression editor

A group of concerned citizens formed in spring of this year to raise awareness of human trafficking. Invisible Innocence began May 20 and targets the rising issue of human trafficking in North Dakota. “When we started researching information for (the state),” said Brandi Jude, co-founder of the organization, “We realized there was a bigger issue.” Increasing accounts of human trafficking in North Dakota has inspired Invisible Innocence to raise awareness of the issue — a difficult task when facts are hard to come by. “Although we have websites that can give general information for statistics in our state, it is still unknown exactly how many people are directly affected,” said Jude. “Human trafficking is (also) a big

problem on reservations, which makes finding information more difficult.” Despite the lack of information about the issue that could lead to a specific approach, Jude said individuals can still get involved. “People can research local organizations and ask ... what their involvement is relating to human trafficking victims,” said Jude. “(They) can start participating in events, going to speeches and seminars and educating each other about what they learn.” Invisible Innocence’s first event, the “Haunted Hustle,” raised awareness for the cause. Sixty participants joined the “Haunted Hustle,” a charity run that took place Oct. 12. The Halloweenthemed 5k obstacle course was at McDowell Dam Nature Park. Jude said the run is considered a success.

“We would’ve been excited about one person coming. Our mission is to raise awareness, and it just takes one person to make a change and be a voice for a human trafficking victim.” Proceeds from the awareness run went toward informational material and future causes and events assisting human sex trafficking victims and survivors. Jude said that the biggest weapons against human trafficking are education and understanding. “We have a tendency to pass judgment ... instead of trying to understand the ‘whys’ for what people are doing,” said Jude. “The biggest crime is treating the victims like they are the criminals. Young girls and boys should not be receiving felonies ... for being pimped out, forced into free labor, raped and abused for someone else’s greedy

demands.” Although awareness of the issue is rising, North Dakota does not yet have any safe homes or counseling programs specifically designed for human trafficking victims. “We look forward to researching this topic more and sharing the information with the public,” said Jude. “We have bigger dreams that we now know are completely accomplishable, and victims have a voice, even if it’s just a few.” Invisible Innocence’s mission statement is: “We are grassroots; we come from nothing but are ready to give everything.” For more information about Invisible Innocence, contact Brandi Jude at (701)226-9177, via email at awakenintuition@ yahoo.com or visit invisibleinnocencend. org.

Dozens Take Back The Night Josie Gereszek expression editor

Dozens of people turned out for the Abused Adult Resource Center’s annual Take Back the Night rally Oct. 7, standing along Bismarck’s Boulevard Avenue near the state Capitol to raise awareness of domestic violence in the state and beyond. With reports of sex trafficking and sexual abuse on the rise, members of the community came to support victims of sexual assault. The rally featured a moment of silence for victims of abuse, a Native American smudging, the music of Mike Swenson and addresses by Attorney General Wayne Stenhjem and Bismarck Police Chief Dan Donlin. Take Back the Night began in England as a protest against the fear women encountered walking the streets at night, and the first U.S. rally took place in the 1970s, organizers said. Its purpose today is to unify women, men and children in the awareness and prevention of sexual and domestic violence. Although domestic violence is most commonly associated with women ages 25-50, AARC Executive Director Diane Zainhofsky emphasized that no demographic is exempt from abuse.

November 2013

“We also know that Native American women face the highest rates of this violence,” Zainhofsky said. Male support is vital in the fight against domestic abuse, she said. “We believe that men should take a stand against violence,” said Zainhofsky. “We’ve now formed a men’s group that is quite active in the community ... Domestic violence is not a women’s issue, but a community issue.” The organization has arranged other events to encourage men’s involvement, including Walk A Mile in Her Shoes, described as a “playful opportunity” for men to raise awareness of sexual violence. It involved about 30 men strutting Bismarck’s Kirkwood Mall in red high heels. Awareness is key, Zainhofsky said. “Today I see young women coming in sooner ... They realize they have options,” she said. Since 1976, the Abused Adult Resource Center has supported victims of sexual and domestic violence. Its services include shelter for victims, referrals, assistance with filing protection orders, support groups, community education and child visitation. The Bismarck-based nonprofit serves seven North Dakota counties. For more information about events, volunteering opportunities or help, visit www.abused adultresourcecenter.com.

Supremacists Looking for White Utopia Derek Lee news editor

Tension has been high in Leith since an outspoken National Socialist Movement enthusiast began inviting white supremacists to join him in the small N.D. town. Craig Cobb, 61, has purchased over a dozen properties in Leith with intent of bringing other white nationalists to the area. Cobb said he intends to populate Leith with enough like-minded individuals to take control of the local government. If successful, Cobb and his supporters will be able to open an international press office to spread white supremacist ideology in addition to creating a symbolic white supremacist “City Upon a Hill.” Cobb said by taking control of small rural towns, he and his supporters can create an all-white atmosphere and avoid what he called “an unholy cabal of overpaid government officials,” as well as local taxes he said are too costly for citizens. Self-proclaimed “skinhead” Kynan Dutton is one supporter who has joined Cobb in Leith. He, his wife Deborah, and his five children moved to the town late September from Sheridan, Oregon. “I am here to prove a point. I’m here to defend Mr. Cobb,” Dutton said. “I’m here to set a new standard for our race and our culture because if we can do it here we can do it elsewhere. And I think that’s what people might be afraid of,” Dutton said his family is one of two or three families who have already begun the move to Leith, with many more

Bismarck State College/United Way 2013 campaign goal = $12,000

preparing to join. He said he is confident other members of the white power movement will come to Leith when they hear of the possibility of an all-white community. “(We) want an all white community. (We) want to be free of places like Detroit where its just a ghetto … where it (has) been destroyed by minorities … (we) just want to be safe,” Dutton said. “We, as white nationalists and national socialists, promote community safety.” Beyond safety, Cobb, Dutton, and other supremacists are trying to create a society promoting their white culture. “We’re proud of our race, we’re

Dutton said, pointing out that in nature, “you don’t see a rat hump a squirrel.” While Cobb has the support of the Dutton family and a number of other National Socialist members, he has also been met with opposition. Over 300 protesters rallied Sept. 22 to demonstrate disapproval of Cobb’s intentions at a Leith town hall meeting. The protesters, gathered together by activist group Unity N.D., were comprised of citizens of various N.D. communities as distant as Grand Forks, with over 150 Native Americans from local tribes.

“We’re proud of our race, we’re proud of our heritage and we reserve the right, just like everyone else, to protect that and promote it,” Kynan Dutton said. “Multiculturalism is killing our heritage.” proud of our heritage and we reserve the right, just like everyone else, to protect that and promote it,” Dutton said. “Multiculturalism is killing our heritage.” Dutton said he would like his community to be free of Jews, blacks, Hispanics and “anyone that wants to be a traitor to their own race.” “There’s lots of scumbag white people. Zero tolerance for drugs. Most of the crews you’ll talk to … will have no tolerance for drugs,” Dutton said. Cobb and Dutton’s movement also stands firmly against homosexuality. “We do not tolerate homosexuality,”

The Grant County Sheriff’s Department commanded a strong presence at the protest, with over 30 armed officials ready to ensure the safety of both the protesters and Cobb’s supporters. “We are here to protect everybody,” said a Grant County sheriff’s deputy, who asked not to be named. While the protest remained peaceful, the deputy said it was “touchy” at times. “You just don’t know people,” the deputy said. “The only other person I trust is another officer with a badge and a gun.” During the town hall meeting, Grant

County Sheriff Steve Bay removed a number of protesters for disorderly conduct, but no arrests were made. Bay removed Dutton from a town hall meeting in Elgin on Oct. 18, which Dutton attended to address local businesses refusing service to his family. Sheriff Bay said refusal of service lies well within the realm of legality. The University of North Dakota also took a stance against Cobb, hosting a symposium titled “Cobbsville? A White Supremacist Take Over of Leith, N.D.?,” which Cobb attended. The symposium discussed the history of white supremacist groups in the country as well as ways to end the Leith take over and incarcerate Cobb. In response, Cobb said historical facts have been twisted to hurt the image of white supremacist groups and that such organizations have been persecuted throughout history while historians have turned a blind eye. According to Cobb, symposium speakers “denigrated” his religion, and said they thought he was crazy for not believing in a higher power. Cobb said the symposium considered modification of the first amendment to exclude hate speech, which he calls “affirmative action for whites.” Cobb said he believes hate speech is the only way white supremacists can legally fight the status quo. Despite negative attention and opposition, Cobb and his supporters remain steadfast in their plan to take over Leith’s local government. “Bring it on,” Dutton said.

October 21 – November 22 Advancing the Common Good Campaign Events

Boo-Grams: Oct. 21- Oct. 31 Annual Soup/Book Sale: Nov.14 in the NECE Loose Change Day: End of campaign – date TBA

Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED. United Way’s goal is to create long-lasting changes by: helping children and youth achieve their potential promoting financial stability and independence

improving people’s health

Living united means being a part of the change.

It takes everyone in the community working together to create a brighter future. www.mystician.com

Photos by Morgan Brinkman

(L): The Duttons moved from Oregon last September to live with Craig Cobb in Leith. (M) Deborah Dutton Moved to Leith with her husband and children to join Cobb’s cause. (R): Kynan Dutton displays a Nazi Salute. www.mystician.com

November 2013

Technology of the Future Blake Nemecek reporter

Many people have dreamt of having the futuristic lifestyle of the Jetsons. These lifestyles may not be far off. People’s brains can think up many ideas of what the future will bring, but in actuality, no one knows all of the fantastic innovations that are being developed. There are plenty of general ideas associated with the future: robots maids, flying cars, even cars that drive themselves. While many of these things have not yet come to being, other advances in technology are arriving. In late Sept., 32-year-old Zac Vawter was wired to a prosthetic leg controlled by his brain, receiving the first mentally run bionic leg. Thanks to technology, this man will be able to live life as if he had his natural limb. Vawter’s concentration is visible as the gears start to rotate and the mechanisms on his leg start to turn, creating movement. All of this happens in a matter of seconds. To prove his ability to do normal or even abnormal things,

Vawter scaled 103 floors of the Chicago Willis Tower with his new thoughtcontrolled prosthetic leg. Google will release Google Glass in 2014. This product is a computer display in the lens of glasses. Google Glass will be convenient for students, for they will have access to digital research wherever they are and be able to see things clearly right in front of their face with glasses. Google Glass is also available with prescription lenses. With this technology, it will be easier to do research, take videos, take pictures, and text, in a situation that would otherwise be difficult to do so. Hyperloop is a new mode of transportation by which travel time is greatly reduced. These travel tubes move at just under 600 miles per hour. The transportation system will be above ground on pylons. Elon Musk, founder of PayPal and Tesla electric cars, developed the idea of Hyperloop and is credited with the invention. For people that do not want to deal with going through airport security, turbulence, waiting for good weather, or driving for hours, Hyperloop is a great alternative.

As technology rapidly changes, ideas that were once only wishful thinking may soon become reality. “We’re going to be seeing a lot more biometric readers and fingerprint (scanners) as well as retina scanners like we see with the iPhone 5s,” Bismarck State College freshmen technology expert Jordan Bitz said. While these identification programs seem to be a benefit to provide more security, Bitz is not sold on the idea. “All of that scares me because I do not want anybody to have my biometric information,” Bitz said. Technology can be used and defined in many different ways. One definition for technology is the use of science to invent things to solve problems. Many objects can be considered technology. Shoes, doors, clothes, etc. are all different forms of technology. “Generally, the purpose of technology is to make things easier and also to provide safeguards where possible,” Chief of Information at BSC Elmer Weigel said. Technology is useful because it can bring insight and perfection to situations.

“When doing work, a lot of times you are prone to human error,” Weigel said. “Technology is to be a tool to help prevent human error.” While technology often makes life easier and more precise for many people, it also tends to create conflicts. “Technology ought to be simplifying our lives, and sometimes it complicates it in the process,” Weigel said. A big issue with technology is privacy – or lack thereof. There is very little that is done with technology that is not easily accessed by a third party. “When you look at communications, as an example, and you are looking at conversations – visiting or talking on the phone – there are no logs of that, there is no record,” Weigel said. “If you’re looking to text somebody or instant message them, there is a trail of that. There is so much data out there that has been recorded.” There are positives and negatives to the changes in our society, as well as uncertainty that comes with technology of the future. But one thing is for certain. Life will continue to change for people and what is known as normal will not be considered normal in the future.

Jessy Hegland is a film major with an emphasis in film production. Read her column on page 11.

How to Dress Pretty while Pinching Pennies Kelsie Seiler reporter

It is no secret that most college students live paycheck to paycheck. But although many young people do not have that much money to spend on new clothing, many like to update wardrobes every now and then, especially with the cool weather of fall. Instead of going to the mall and blowing loads of cash, why not check out a few of the many second hand stores in town? Plato’s Closet is located near Bismarck State College. The store specializes in selling high quality, name brand clothing for less than half of retail price. Their inventory changes with the season, so there are always new pieces. Nicci Johnson is a BSC student who works at Plato’s Closet. She and her coworkers are experts at finding affordable clothing for college students on a budget. “Everything here is super affordable,” Johnson said. “We usually price our stuff 50-70 percent off mall prices. It’s so nice because I don’t even have to shop at the mall anymore … everything they

November 2013

sell at the mall, we sell here too, for way less.” Plato’s Closet not only stocks a wide selection of clothing but also buys name brand, gently used teen clothing. It is a great way for students to earn extra cash for those clothes at the back of closets that have not been worn in ages. Even now, Johnson and her coworkers at Plato’s Closet are looking to stock up on their gently used fall and winter clothing among other items. “Right now we’re interested in buying denim, athletic wear, outerwear and any guys’ clothing. We take all kinds of teens and 20’s clothing … everything from Abercrombie to the Walmart brands,” Johnson said. Overall, Plato’s Closet is a hip, fun place for teens and 20-somethings to shop without breaking the bank, and a great place to score some free fashion advice as well. “Everybody here is so welcoming. Every associate here will help you find any type of outfit … Anything from school clothes to an outfit to wear to a job interview,” Johnson said. “It’s such a cool place to work.”

Photo by Jade Eagle

Perspective Page 11 Guest column

Plato’s Closet offers a wide variety of hip clothing at great prices. Secondhand stores are a good way to stay fashionable on a budget.

www.mystician.com

Page 10 Freedom of no religion

Page 12 Sarah’s stories Page 11 Sandwich spot

Page 12 Tawnie’s reviews Photo by Morgan Brinkman

Freedom of No Religion

On a Sunday

November 2013

“godly” existence pointless and instill fear in the uncertainty of afterlife. “I think that there’s a lot of fear in religious commitment, even those ... who are very religious in their world views. The charge of ‘you’re going to hell,’ is being kind of held over peoples’ heads as the ultimate fate,” Basquiat said. “Culturally that also works out

there is an archaic continuance of the inability to speak openly of a personal lack of faith. “If you’re an atheist there’s pressure. Conformism in terms of atheism would (make it) hard to express openly,” Basquiat said. Expression of non-belief is often seen by the religious as an attack on the foundation of a religious existence. To claim there is no god is to render a

into a ... mistrust of people who do not think the same way.” Basquiat believes people fear an attack on their god is going to render their entire religious belief a house of cards. This feeling of mistrust is somewhat mutual. “In some people, atheism becomes like a defense mechanism for the injuries religion has inflicted on them,” Basquiat said. “People who are ostracized ... tend

to find some release in ... a negative deconstruction of their beliefs.” So could it ever be possible for the religious and non-religious to peacefully coexist? Though his philosophy students are predominantly Christian, Basquiat feels he successfully creates an environment where expression of any belief is welcomed. “I’m very candid about what I allow or don’t allow to happen,” Basquiat said. “All we can expect from one another is that we can use … the rational tools we have been given to understand things better. But we can’t ever claim to know the whole enchilada. Ever.” It can be intimidating to approach a conversation with an individual of different belief. Whether religious or otherwise, a discussion with a differing opinion often feels like a competition. For someone of great conviction, a difficult question has the potential to be earth shattering. “There’s such fear about asking questions about what you believe. I see though, that people (who) actually do that come out on the other end with much more depth to their faith, and greater understanding of what their faith means to them,” Basquiat said. “I would say that the same process happens for an atheist. As long as they’re coming at it from a place of anger and hurt ... there’s going to be no space to have ... discussion in between.” It seems to reach a higher level of understanding, as the religious needs the atheist, just as the atheist needs the religious. Perhaps with respect rather than distaste, a mutually beneficial relationship could be achieved. “One of the steps in (the) evolution of being a religious person is that you, at some stage of your religious belief, recognize that you can open your beliefs to question and doubt, and that process ... simply sifts the wheat from chaff,” said Basquiat, “You basically end up with something that is stronger or better.” Perhaps the BSC community and the state as a whole would benefit from embracing the way of thinking promoted by Basquiat. The encouragement of belief diversity not only allows for equality, but also the opportunity for people of all backgrounds to grow. No one is the bad guy. We can all learn from each other.

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Jessy Hegland guest columnist

Do you remember in junior high school when we had to read “The Diary of Anne Frank?” I certainly do. I also remember watching different movie renditions and seeing archival footage of concentration camps. It was mind-boggling that such an atrocity like that could happen; and I often thought about what I would do if I were ever face to face with such propaganda and hatred. At 14 years old, I vowed I would not turn my back when given the opportunity to stand for what I truly believe in. At 25 years old, I saw real Nazi flags in a small town 70 miles from Bismarck. I went with some close friends to show support to the citizens of Leith. What we saw and the things we witnessed will be etched into my mind forever. This was different than the previous activism I had done; this time I was looking into the faces of people who believed that I should be jailed for even existing. At the demonstration on Sept. 22 I saw

hundreds of people of different colors, creeds, and ideologies. I saw police in full riot gear. I heard the sounds of helicopters flying overhead, war-cries, shouting, chants, bagpipes, and stunned silence. The scent of burning sage was present for cleansing or protection. I was mixed with intense emotions of confusion, fear, anger, compassion, sorrow, and despair. One shaved-head male was standing at the door of the City Hall. A protestor from the crowd had recognized him: “Hey Mike, I’m glad you’re doing something with your life,” the protestor sarcastically said. “Yeah, me too,” answered Mike. They both began to converse and I recall hearing Mike say, “The blood has become so mixed now that we don’t know who we are anymore.” I wondered if Mike even knows who he is anymore. I asked the protester that knew him when was the last time he saw Mike. He told me that it’s been about three years out of high school, but he had

read his name in the paper for various criminal charges. I felt deeply sorry for whomever this Mike guy was, I wondered what kind of trauma he had experienced to make him feel so powerless that someone like Cobb could make him feel special and worth something. I wondered that if in prison he joined an Aryan group for protection. Whatever it was, I saw this Mike as a lost human being. However, I’m sure he saw me as less than human. The sound of bagpipes towards the end of the demonstration felt like a final insult. Some of the protestors may take their Celtic heritage seriously, and hearing the sound of bagpipes being played for white supremacy felt like heavy bricks in our stomachs. I saw veterans, bikers, grandmothers, American Indians, African Americans, children, and all were North Dakotan. I never thought in my life-time I would be able to say that I stood up to Nazi’s in North Dakota. I will continue to stand in support for Leith, and I will continue to stand for what I believe in.

Morgan’s Serious Sandwich Spot: The Perfect Sandwich Photo by Morgan Brinkman

representative of all other religions, the rest claiming no affiliation. Bismarck State College philosophy professor Tayo Basquiat said although the religious community as a whole has become increasingly liberal in recent years, for non-believers, Christian acceptance has yet to improve. As a nonbeliever, even in public school settings,

Photo by Sarah Morris

Walking the halls of any North Dakota school, a student is sure to see peers and organizations expressing their freedom of religion. Flyers for an upcoming meeting of Christian young adults and students wearing religious clothing and jewelry are abundant- but spotting something outwardly secular may prove more difficult. In response to the vast inequality in the ratio of secular student groups to religious organizations at North Dakota State University, student Rhianna LaValla started the NDSU Freethinkers. “NDSU Freethinkers started when I wrote an opinion piece for the Spectrum and got a lot of feedback from people who wanted to start an atheist club,” LaValla said. “There (were) so many Christian organizations on campus, but not one non-believers club.” The leader of a Christian campus group is typically held in high regard throughout the community. That, however, is not the case for an atheist leader, says LaValla. “As an atheist ... I have had the honor of being glared at for my lack of beliefs,” LaValla said. Part of the distaste for agnostic or atheist beliefs comes from the common stereotype of the “angry atheist.” Although it is not uncommon for an atheist convert to hold a grudge against religion, feeling they have been misinformed by the church, LaValla makes a point to discourage any negativity in the NDSU Freethinkers. “I’d like to make it very clear that we aren’t a hate group … If we catch you being rude or trying to actively convert someone one way or the other, being hateful or negative, you will get a warning, and the next time it happens you are kicked out and banned from meetings,” LaValla said. “So we really want a good image on campus.” Despite religious affiliation becoming less and less expected across the nation and the increase of organized agnostic and atheist groups in the state, North Dakota citizens are still predominantly Christian. According to a 2010 U.S. Congregational Membership report, the state has the second highest rate of religious affiliation in the country at 67 percent, behind only Utah at 79. The study showed the state was 25 percent Catholic, 12 percent Evangelical Protestant, 29 percent mainline Protestant, and one percent

Photo submitted by Jessy Hegland

Staff Editorial

Morgan Brinkman inspiration editor

There is nothing sexier than a wellcrafted sandwich. Personally, if each item on a sub is not superb, I cannot eat it. If, however, perfection is achieved, I may only then be completely seduced by its wonderful and luscious flavors.

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Obviously, not every sandwich will make it to the haven of my mouth. A particular criteria must be met before I can finish it off with my drooling chops. So, you may ask, “What makes a great sandwich?” The answer begins with soft, sultry bread. I must be able to indent the slices with a firm grasp. I am adamant that with each bite, the bread stick to the roof of my mouth. I should have

to struggle to chew and be moderately uncomfortable. The endeavor should cause sweating- eating a great sandwich is work. Next, cheese me please! The cheese slices on a perfect sandwich must fit squarely inside the perimeter of the bread so they may connect and become one. Cheese is the Barry White of the sandwich. It is there to play that smooth, sexy jazz and hold everything tightly together. The last thing I want during my sandwich rendezvous is to worry about the precious details falling apart. On top of the cheese is where the crisp, crunchy, satisfying veggies go. They may vary from long, bulbous carrot strips to sweet, innocent baby spinach. Veggies bring to the mix an exotic danger rare for other sandwich components. I want everyone around me to question my safety when I am devouring a sandwich. Then comes the meat, the most important part. Without it, there’s no stamina to the sandwich. A good lunchtime meat meet can keep me going throughout the day. And any type of meat can be used. The meat has a purpose. It acts as the satin sheet that tucks in all those steamy veggies.

I usually double slice to get that extra zesty protein. Finally, unlike most conventional sandwiches, I must be careful to place my condiments in the most pleasure inducing spots. A desirable spread doesn’t have to be lathered directly on the slices. Ideally in fact, I make the entire sandwich before I spread. My go-to condiment is spicy dijon mustard, for multiple reasons. It’s delicious, and with the correct placement, its spicy nature may fill my nose with a painful burn. I enjoy every single moment of tingling discomfort and if by now my top clothing layers haven’t come off, something is wrong. My method for the spread is a cross hatching pattern. A knife is never needed in this situation. It’s all improvised. It’s unpredictable. That’s what makes me love it the most. Once the assembly is complete, I sit down, strap myself into a stable chair, and begin the most intense sandwich eating experience. By the end, I’m hot and bothered by the amount of sweat I have produced, and after a quick shower, I’m prepared to make my next sandwich masterpiece.

November 2013

Sarah’s Stories: Creating a Costume Sarah Morris senior editor

My junior year in high school, I wanted to find a cool costume for Halloween. Long past were the days of trick or treating and class parties; wearing a costume had become more or less show and tell. Growing up, I only had a storepurchased costume once or twice. Mulan was my top movie when I was in first grade, so going into the Halloween section in the store I transformed myself into the well-loved heroine, war uniform and all. Most years though, I created my own costume. Hawaiian hula dancer, beaten up hospital patient, frontier woman, and a pirate were all among these many characters that I became. What would I be this year then? I could dress up like an Angel or maybe a pirate again. No. Instead I came up with a very interesting idea. I would become one of the greatest loved icons in the history of the United States. I would

become a can of Coca-Cola. My dad, who always got into building elaborate Valentine’s Day boxes in Elementary school (another story to tell come February,) became excited with the challenge. And on the plus side, it would be a lot less money to create a costume than to buy one. So, you may ask, how do you to create a life sized pop can? My father and I decided to use two big fertilizer barrels to create a pop can shape. Walking into Menard’s one evening, we looked for ways in which to connect the barrels together. Many dollars later (out went the notion that it would be cheaper) we emerged from the store doors carrying bags of cables, a gutter extender, hooks, spray paint, and duct tape. The process wasn’t an easy one, cutting the bottoms off of very tough and quite large barrels, and drilling holes in order to loop the cables through to attach the barrels. Hooks were used to also connect the cables, and a strong line of duct tape

sealed the middle of the can together. Pulling out the red spray paint, I went to work covering the barrels with a thick red coat. Of course Coca-Cola has to have a logo, so I created a three foot long stencil to imprint the logo on the costume. A gutter extender was morphed into a straw. And for the final touch, the conversion of all the nutrition facts of the regular soft drink to the very large can became painted on the back. I donned the finished costume, putting on my red shirt, red and white socks, black shoes, and white hat. Going to school, I did get a lot of looks, laughs, and compliments. The down side was that I could not sit down at my desk, so off went my costume every class. This costume became more than a Halloween project, more than getting the attention of the school or even more than being happy that we had pulled it off. It was a bonding experience with my whole family. And that was way better than buying a costume.

Savannah Bashus played Claire in BSC’s fall production of “Proof.” Read more on page 15. Photo submitted by Sarah Morris

Tawnie’s Reviews: JFK: The Movie Tawnie Reisenauer perspective editor

The movie JFK is based upon conspiracies built up on the killing of President Kennedy and later on his brother, Robert Kennedy. The theories are that some high officials wanted to keep a war going between the US and Vietnam, but the Kennedy family was trying to stop the war. So those officials had them killed. Before watching the movie, the audience was warned about the graphic showing of the assassination of President Kennedy and how confusing Jim Garrison’s investigation into the subject becomes. I didn’t find the conspiracy at all confusing, nor did the movie show the killing in a lot of detail. The whole conspiracy was laid right in front of the viewer. The actual camera used to catch the assassination was quite old and the film zoomed in and was pixelated. What really caught my attention was the look on his wife’s face as she realized her husband had been shot in the head. What I found most graphic was the autopsy; it showed half of his head gone and then how they

November 2013

flopped his body on the table when examining it. What the audience wasn’t warned about was the language. The F-bomb was thrown around more times than I could count. A lot of the audience was shocked by it at first but as the movie progressed they got lost in the story it was telling. The movie proved some very valid points regarding the Kennedy assassination. It really makes the viewer think and mull things over. Could the government really have done this? It has already been proved that there was a conspiracy against the Kennedy’s but as to all who participated is another matter. Garrison has already prosecuted a few of the members who helped assassinate President Kennedy but no one knows how long the list is or who is on it. I think that this a great movie for anyone looking for a thought provoking view or for anyone who just wants to get a better understanding of the tragic murder of President Kennedy. Whether you believe in the conspiracy theory or not, it does reveal the truth about his murder and how it was covered up.

“Mrs. Kennedy and Me” Tawnie Reisenauer perspective editor

Detailing the person that was Mrs. Kennedy, Clint Hill’s novel, “Mrs. Kennedy and Me” discusses Jacqueline Kennedy. Showing her everyday life and actions as first lady of the United States during the Kennedy presidency, Hill writes of Mrs. Kennedy’s personal struggles and victories; a constant shadow, Hill knew Mrs. Kennedy better than most. I’m not much of an autobiography or a biography reader but this book really caught my eye and not just because Hill is coming in November, or because all of the copies of this book are all currently checked out from the local libraries. It caught my attention because it is an interesting story about something no one really knows about. When Hill began his job with the Kennedy family, he did not know what the title entailed – protecting the president’s wife was duty that was more different than what he had imagined. Throughout the course of the presidency, Hill cared for the woman the entire nation knew and admired.

At first he had some doubts about his new position, as he imagined going to tea parties and fashion shows for the rest of Kennedy’s term. Hill shows a common misconception that we place with people every day of our lives; he expects Mrs. Kennedy to be a modern housewife of that time. Hill soon realizes that this is not the case and later in the novel he even begins to compare his own life to Mrs. Kennedy’s. I also think this is what helps him understand and connect with her. Hill’s writing style made the novel enjoyable. One of the reasons I don’t like to read a lot of nonfiction is because it seems dull and only about the facts. Hill spins his story so smoothly; I was hooked in immediately. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in the Kennedys or who likes biographies and autobiographies. Hill will be on campus for the symposium on Nov. 5-7 to talk about his experience with the Kennedy’s along with a few other speakers. For more information, visit jfk.bscsymposium.org or the BSC web-page.

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Expression Page 15 BSC’s ‘Proof’ review Page 14 Student writing

Page 16 Sound Bytes Photo by Sarah Morris

BSC Play is “Proof ” Students Have Talent

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Photo by Morgan Brinkman

Overall, Catherine and Hal’s love story is half-hearted, predictable and comes across as a feeble attempt to target some romance-obsessed demographic. But it’s hard to sit through a play so inevitably cliche with a premise to initially make the viewer hope for something a little more original. The writing of “Proof” did not do the actors justice, but their abilities shone through nonetheless. Fortunately.

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It takes hard work and dedication, but that is exactly what Bismarck State College choir students and those from the surrounding community are putting into the BSC Choirfest experience, which will be presented Nov. 15-16 on the BSC campus. This year’s Choirfest will feature an array of songs from all over the world as well as arrangements of remembrance such as “Set Me As A Seal” and “In Remembrance.” The public may view the Choirfest performance at 3 p.m. Nov. 16 in the National Energy Center of Excellence Bavendick Stateroom.

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Writing has always been fairly easy for me. It comes naturally, the words flowing from my brain through the pencil and etching themselves into the paper with little effort on my part. However, there was one instance where writing was difficult for me, an instance when I sat for hours on end staring at the blank page in front of me, totally lost in regards to what I should write. “An artist statement,” my teacher chirped as she wobbled around the room in her too-high yellow heels, “is a reflection of your work, the meaning behind your artistic preferences, and how you want your pieces to be perceived by others. But most of all, it’s putting yourself down on paper. Your thoughts, your dreams, your goals, and how you will use your creative talent throughout your career.” Trying to “put myself down on paper” seemed an impossible task. One never realizes just how little one knows about oneself until one tries to document it.

BSC Choirfest to Draw Big Crowds

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English Student

Asking a seventeen-year-old in a summer course to spell out her artistic goals for the rest of her life also seemed really unfair to me. I was, and still am, very indecisive about what my future is going to hold. So I sat there, eyes blurry from staring at the notebook so long and back aching from slumping over in my chair, until I had a revelation. My aim throughout childhood and my high school years has been to be original. I have never wanted to just fit in; I have always strived to go against conformity whenever possible. This attitude has gotten me in trouble once or twice, but at least I am comfortable knowing that I am being myself. The same principle is true for my artwork. I have never wanted to copy the great painters of history; I just want to have the freedom to express myself however I see fit. I recognized that my goal of total originality was an excellent central idea to base my artist statement on. So I rubbed my tired eyes, sat up a little straighter, picked up my pencil, and began to put myself down on the paper.

expression editor

Erin J. Weichel and Jesse Francisco Lagos give mathematics a dramatic edge in Bismarck State College’s fall production, “Proof.”

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Student Feature: “Putting Myself on Paper”

This issue, the Mystician is publishing essays from Bismarck State College English students Tadd Brierley and Savanna Hoff. Their assignment was to discuss why writing was important to them.

November 2013

Photo by Morgan Brinkman

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In the event of a death, two things can make anyone succumb to insanity-silence and denial. Our minds are what hold the truth, and that is a brutal fact. Writing was important in my life when I was in the fourth grade. When I was nine years old, my mother passed away in her sleep. I remember the day like it was yesterday. Good Friday… I wish it were so. When I started going back to school, my father forced me into taking counseling classes because I hardly talked to him or any of my four siblings about anything. When I did, I would always bring my mother into the conversation, and they would all see a sharp blade slash in front of them. They would look me in the eyes with awe about how I could speak as if nothing even happened. All my thoughts were kept in my head for nobody to know. Even the counselor could see I was not capable of going to school yet, but I did not want to sit at home either. The silence scared me. The counselor tried many useless attempts at cracking my brain, but I would not allow him. I would sit teary-eyed in the room and stare aimlessly at the wall without answering any of his questions. One day I went into his room, saw he was not there, and waited. That day I

had brought a notebook with me. After about half-an-hour, I started to get antsy from the silence in the room, so I picked up my pencil and started to write. There may have been no order to what I wrote down, or anything legible, but writing felt good, almost comforting. I could not talk to anyone without sobbing uncontrollably. Within ten minutes, the counselor stepped into the room and apologized many times for his absence, but I didn’t mind his absence. After seeing my paper, his excuses came to a sudden stop. He then said one word, “Wow.” As I kept writing that hour, he saw how much progress I started to make. He guided by telling me I should make my pain into stories. “Don’t retell the story of my mother’s death, but write the emotions you feel. Connect yourself with your emotions and free them from your head,” he repeated over and over again. That is what I did. Still to this day, when I get upset or distraught, I like to go into my room, close the door, and pick up my journal. I read what I did a year ago today, then I write about my day and the emotions I had throughout. If I did not have writing in my life, I never would have been able to reveal my thoughts and emotions and, perhaps, another tragedy could have struck our family.

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Additionally, after finding the elusive proof, Hal is more skeptical about Catherine’s academic abilities than even her uppity sister, which makes his character irritating for reasons beyond plot conflict. Although Catherine’s genius is quite obvious to the audience, Hal is in complete disbelief she could be so intelligent as to have written the proof. Hal acts like an asshat, but Auburn continues to characterize him in a likable way. It just doesn’t work.

Although Catherine is by far the most rounded character, she still falls into a certain modern archetype- that of the “strong female character” nevertheless severely weakened by a certain “troubled” type of personality. She can be seen specifically in another production performed just several months ago at Dakota Stage Ltd. as Percy Talbott in “The Spitfire Grill.” Although I’m sure this distressed gal was interesting to watch the first time around, when a playwright tosses her into the mix nowadays, it tends to come across as a sort of creative laziness- just edgy enough to be justified, but exhausting nonetheless. Further, Hal’s character is logically upsetting. Hal is consistently nerdy, often romantic and sometimes even charming. Auburn, in writing “Proof,” apparently attempted to slap every positive trait he could onto Hal’s character, but made, if even, a very feeble attempt to balance them out. Hal’s character is paralyzingly analytical, but sexualized somehow nonetheless. Hal’s ridiculous sexy trait is obviously tacked on to create a romantic plot between Catherine and himself, but the awkward love affair is senseless and distracts from the genuinity of the play. A play about math would have been cool, but an overdone plot about an unlikely romance loosely centered on math is boring.

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Student Feature: “Waking Up”

Bismarck State College’s most recent theatrical production, “Proof,” written by David Auburn, verified October 16-20 the acting capacity of the BSC community. The four-person cast featured only one current student, Savannah Bashus, a freshman majoring in engineering technology, who played Claire, the no-nonsense sister of Catherine (played by Erin J. Weichel), the play’s focal point. Catherine is the daughter of Robert (played by George C. Welder), a recently deceased mathematical genius and professor. Up until his untimely death, Catherine cared for her father through a lengthy mental illness. Upon Robert’s death, his ex-graduate student, Hal (played by Jesse Francisco Lagos), discovers a paradigm-shifting proof about prime numbers in Robert’s office that he incorrectly assumes was written by the professor, which in fact was penned by Catherine. Throughout the production, Catherine contests to prove that she, not her father authored the proof and finds herself in a relationship with the analytical Hal. “Proof” illustrates Catherine’s struggle with the fear of mentally and mathematically following in her father’s footsteps. Despite the acting, set design and general direction of the play being commendable, my criticism lies in the sheer predictability and questionable nature of the plot and character personae.

Josie Gereszek

November 2013

Sound Bytes Josie Gereszek expression editor

Photo Credit: Ghost Bath Name: Ghost Bath From: Minot Started: Summer 2013 Members: DJ Gunnarson, Taylor Hruby, Dennis Mikula, Jamie Schlittenhart Media: Facebook For Fans of: Agalloch, Baroness, Wolves in the Throne Room

Photo Credit: It Came From the Sea Name: It Came from the Sea From: Bismarck Started: 2010 Members: Justin Buetler, Braden Hendershot, Jamie Schlittenhart, Zach Mullholland Media: Bandcamp, Facebook, Reverbnation, Twitter For Fans of: The Fall of Troy, Hopesfall, Hotcross

Psychology major Cody Walker was vital in building the set for BSCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s haunted theatre. Read more on page 19.

Photo Credit: John Neitge Photography Name: Crab Legs From: Fargo Started: Summer 2011 Members: Scott Heidinger, Mike Hansen, BJ Moore Media: Bandcamp, Facebook, Twitter For Fans of: Kid Dynamite, The Lawrence Arms, Mixtapes

November 2013

Photo Credit: Lia Marie Name: Winterstate From: Bismarck Started: Fall 2012 Members: Blake Burbach, Robert Kramer, Evan Morgenson, Michael Oberlander, Taylor Stockert, Graham Thomas Media: Bandcamp, Facebook, Soundcloud For Fans of: Slave to the Mushroom Cloud, Zebra Corpse, Zoo on Fire

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Entertainment Page 18 Horoscopes

Page 18 Bachelors of BSC

Page 20 Calendar Page 19 Haunted Theatre Photo by Morgan Brinkman

Favorite quote: “Talk low, talk slow, and don’t talk too much.”

expression editor

If Kyler had three wishes, they would be: To buy the farm from his parents, buy the sales barn and fix it up, and find a woman that would “work at stuff” with him. Favorite type of movie: Action. Celebrity crush: Emma Watson.

Favorite smell: “Rain; that’s like the god of all smells.”

Who Kyler looks up to: “Dad; I am what I am because of him.”

Favorite type of music: Country.

Kyler’s perfect date: “I don’t care, as long as she shows up.”

What Heather does for fun: “Dance- it’s pretty much my life.” Her “type”: “I would like him to dance, be spontaneous and someone I can talk to.” Favorite type of music: “I grew up on country music, but I love to dance to hip-hop.” Favorite smell: “Black ice air freshener, it’s the only type I’ll put in my car.”

Favorite place to eat: Kroll’s. Heather’s perfect date: “It wouldn’t be a dinner and a movie. It would be him taking me somewhere I’ve never been before for an adventure.” Favorite type of movie: “Any movie, just not zombie movies.” Who Heather looks up to: “My pastor. Everyone comes to me for advice, and that’s the one person I can go to.”

Bismarck State College Drama Club’s spook-tastic “Stage Fright” Haunted Theatre was a hit for actors and visitors alike.

November Horoscopes

Aries, Ram ♈ (Mar. 21 - Apr.19): You may be called to make a big decision about a relationship after learning something you didn’t realize before. Although tensions will be high, do not be afraid to ditch a partner if you have realized you are the one doing all the work- just don’t lose your temper. Taurus, Bull ♉ (Apr. 20 - May 20): The solar eclipse occurring in early November is a big deal for Taureans. A solar eclipse’s energies can last four to six months and usually denote a change of some kind- an end that leads to a beginning. Taureans in particular should guard their reputation this month, especially in matters of love. Gemini, Twins ♊ (May 21 - Jun. 20): Mercury is going retrograde in late October, so be careful signing contracts, writing papers or buying electronics. Do not be surprised if anything involving technology acts buggy. This retrograde phase ends on November 11. After the eleventh, use the intense energy of Mercury in Scorpio to focus on your studies.

November 2013

By Jade Eagle [For entertainment purposes only]

Cancer, Crab ♋ (Jun. 21 - Jul. 22): Be direct in your communications early this month, Cancer! Do not hide in your shell, even if you’ve felt misunderstood or restless this past month. The early November eclipse could cause relationship issues, so be careful with what you say. Expect some changes with your job or career if you have one (you might be seeing these changes already).

Leo, Lion ♌ (Jul. 23 - Aug. 22): Chances are, this past month has been chaotic for you. Family issues in particular have been plaguing you, and with Mercury in retrograde, you haven’t had too much success in talking through it. Expect this all to come to a climax, most likely for the better. Virgo, Virgin ♍ (Aug. 23- Sept. 22): Don’t be too critical of other people. You might think the changes other signs are making are too drastic and carefree, but other people are different from you. Relax and take care of your health. The Mercury retrograde at the beginning of the month will be especially hard on Virgos, so read Gemini’s forecast, as it applies to you as well!

Libra, Scales ♎ (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22): Curb your spending in November! You may be tempted to blow money shopping or on friends and social obligations, but taking a long term view is important. Bills will be piling all up around you. You may discover a good economic opportunity, however, so don’t let it go to waste! Scorpio, Scorpion ♏ (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21): The solar eclipse November third will impact you in a big way, especially if your birthday is within the four days before or after the third. You’ll be growing and learning a lot about your inner self. On the other hand, secrets and hidden desires tend to come out to play around an eclipse, so be careful. New beginnings may come from a secret’s end. Sagittarius, Archer ♐ (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21): Jupiter, your majestic ruler, is going retrograde this month. Do not be surprised if it feels like nothing great is happening. Take this time to reflect on your inner self and grow as a person. Take control of things, even the realities you don’t want to face.

Photo by Morgan Brinkman

His “type”: “As long as she ain’t scared of dirt or work.”

Josie Gereszek

Heather Pearson Theatre Major

Kyler Miller Agronomy Major What Kyler does for fun: Hangs out, plays basketball, and works cows with the family.

Haunted Fort Gets Spooky for 12th Year

Photo by: Kaitlyn Olson

Bachelors of BSC

Capricorn, Goat ♑ (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19): This month marks the entrance of Venus into Capricorn, which is great news for the goats of the zodiac! Focus on love this month, as it will go smoothly, but an eclipse, like the one this month, is a common time to get pregnant- so be careful! You hard-working Capricorns deserve it! This is also a great time for any artistic or musical projects. Aquarius, Water Bearer ♒ (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18): Aquarians will be feeling some stress this month, most likely at work or school. Despite the added pressure, make sure the stress is positive, not negative. Is what you are doing really what you want to do, or are you stuck in someone else’s obligations? Pisces, Fish ♓ (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20): November will be a great month for Pisceans to travel. Don’t be afraid! Follow your dreams and get out of the house. You might discover all new things about yourself once you break the monotony of everyday life.

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Stage Fright Not Just for Actors Derek Lee news editor

The Sidney J. Lee Auditorium underwent a chilling transformation when the Bismarck State College Drama Club hosted the Stage-Fright Haunted Theatre Oct. 25 and 26. For a mere $5 guests were led through the ghastly theatre by a guide in wellexecuted character. The tour began with an introduction to the guide’s schizophrenic grandmother and eerie family. The tour continued backstage with room themes varying from a twisted doctor’s laboratory to a creepy circus to a menacing maze; all low lit with hidden characters waiting in the shadows to prey on unsuspecting patrons.

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While I was not in tears of fright after the tour, the drama club was beyond successful in startling the tour group throughout the sinister trek and left us unsure whether to clutch our sides in pain from laughter or applaud the performance. Clad in convincing costume and makeup, it was clear the actors enjoyed the event as much as its visitors. With the talented cast, frugal price, and virtually non-existent wait line, the Stage-Fright Haunted Theatre offered the ultimate bang-for-your-buck. All proceeds from the highlycommendable event benefited the BSC Drama Club. Four stars.

Since its beginning in 2002, the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park has been a prime stop for those wanting to get a fright during the Halloween season. This year has been no exception. With more than 8,000 visitors and 220 volunteers supporting the event last year alone, it is no wonder the Haunted Fort is the state park’s largest fundraising event of the year. “Each Haunted Fort becomes more popular in the community, both with attendance and community help,” Matt Schanandore, events director at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park said. Approximately 1,900 volunteer hours go into each year’s Haunted Fort, including set up, maintenance and the clean up that follows, all to benefit the state park as a whole. “The ultimate goal of Haunted Fort is to support the many interpretive activities of the North Dakota Parks and Rec. Dept. at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park,” Schanandore said. And because of the Haunted Fort’s considerable effect on the park yearround, its planning cannot be taken lightly. Every March for three years, planners of the Haunted Fort have attended

the TransWorld’s Halloween and Attractions Show in St. Louis to gather new ideas and knowledge for the event. “Here in North Dakota we don’t see much influence of the haunt industry. Attending the show gives us an edge on what is new in the industry, and gives us a better understanding of Haunted Fort,” Schanandore said. “Since attending we’ve established better safety standards for Haunted Fort as well as developed innovative ways of design for Haunted Fort. “ With all of the attraction’s effort in scaring, it’s no surprise the experience is not suggested for children below a certain age. “The Haunted Fort is geared towards a PG-13 crowd. Typically our attendance demographic ranges from high school age students to upper 20’s, lower 30’s,” Schanandore said. The event is open for scaring October 31 and November 1-2. The ticket office is open 7-11 p.m. General admission to the fort is $12, $32 for VIP skip the line access. For more information, visit www. hauntedfort.com or contact Matt Schanandore at (701)-667-6340 or mschanandore@nd.gov.

Suburban Terror at Horror on Harmon Josie Gereszek expression editor

Preparations for Horror on Harmon’s 13th year of fear have begun at 1408 Harmon Ave. in North Bismarck. According to Tom Braun, house owner and host of the attraction, setup for the yard and house haunt began Labor Day weekend and will continue through the last week of Oct. Between Braun and two others, countless hours are spent building this haunted attraction from the ground up. “We put some time into it,” Braun said. “It’s a legitimate haunted house and it’s out of a house, so it’s small, but yet it’s complex.”

According to Braun, community helps to make an event of this kind happen. Volunteers are gathered from numerous sources — Girl Scouts, returning scarers and family and friends to name a few. The night of the haunt, a makeup team of four will provide facial costuming for Horror on Harmon’s more than 60 recruited actors. The yard and house haunt is open only 6-10 p.m. on Halloween. Children under 12 are encouraged to attend between 6 to 7 p.m., prior to the spookier portion of the attraction. Freewill donations will go to Girl Scouts-Dakota Horizon. For more information, contact Tom Braun at 701-255-6398, 701-426-3337 or via email at tomas@bis.midco.net. November 2013

Upcoming Events: Friday, November 1: Stand up Comedy with Mike Merryfield 8 p.m. (Dakota Stage) Saturday, November 2: Concordia Orchestra Auditorium 7:30 p.m. (Belle Mehus Auditorium) Stand up Comedy with Mike Merryfield 10 p.m. (Dakota Stage) Sunday, November 3: Now that She’s Gone 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. (Dakota Stage) Tuesday, November 5: JFK Symposium 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. (National Energy Center of Excellence) Wednesday, November 6: SGA meeting 4 p.m. (Student Union) JFK Symposium 8:30 a.m. - 4: 30 p.m. (National Energy Center of Excellence)

Friday, November 15: Women’s Basketball 6 p.m. Men’s Basketball 8 p.m. Ft. Berthold Community College (Armory)

Saturday, November 23: Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra: Home for the Holidays 7:30 p.m. (Belle Mehus Auditorium)

Saturday, November 16: ChoirFest 3 p.m. (Sidney J. Lee Auditorium)

The Big One Art & Craft Fair 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Bismarck Civic Center)

Saturday, November 9: Monster concert 7 p.m. (Sidney J. Lee Auditorium)

Men’s Basketball 4 p.m. Women’s Basketball 6 p.m. Miles Community College (Armory)

Sunday, November 24: The Big One Art & Craft Fair 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Bismarck Civic Center)

Rob Zombie & Korn 7 p.m. (Bismarck Civic Center)

Study Skills Workshop 1:30 p.m. (Jack Science Center)

Monday, November 11: Veteran’s Day BSC closed, no school

Tuesday, November 19: Chamber Concert 7:30 p.m. (Sidney J. Lee Auditorium)

Tuesday, November 26: Jazz Concert 7:30 p.m. (Sidney J. Lee Auditorium) Wednesday, November 27: Residence Halls close for break

Wednesday, November 13: Study Skills Workshop 2 p.m. (Jack Science Center)

Wednesday, November 20: SGA meeting 4 p.m. (Student Union)

Thursday, November 28: Thanksgiving BSC closed

SGA Meeting 4 p.m. (Student Union)

Friday, November 22: Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra: Home for the Holidays 7:30 p.m. (Belle Mehus Auditorium)

Friday, November 29: Black Friday No classes, BSC open

Thursday, November 7: ATNR meeting 12 p.m. (Career Academy) Baroque concert 12 p.m. (Leach Music Center) JFK Symposium 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. (National Energy Center of Excellence)

Thursday, November 14: Wind Ensemble concert 7 p.m. (Sidney J. Lee Auditorium)

Justin McCloud is a talented sophomore returning for BSC’s basketball team. Read his story on page 22.

Women’s Basketball 6:00 p.m. Men’s Basketball 8:00 p.m. BSC Alumni

Athletics Page 22 Boys Basketball

November 2013

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Page 22 Lady Mystics Photo by Morgan Brinkman

Page 23 Epic sports Page 23 Wheelchair basketball

Lady Mystics Make History

Photo by Sarah Morris

Madison Deibert attacks the ball around the Wildcat blockers. The Mystics went on to win the game against the North Dakota State College of Science Wildcats

Kaitlyn Olson athletics editor

Fortitude: The strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage. The Lady Mystics volleyball team is a prime example of fortitude and has

performed this task time and time again with very little flaws. Leading this so-far successful team is coach Jeni Walsh, assistant coach Denise Wetzel, and the three sophomore captains consisting of outside hitters Leslie Beaudoin and Madison Deibert and libero Casey Reamann. “This is just my third season here,

so as I’m getting strong local, regional athletes to join our program, the program itself just keeps building,” Walsh said. “The reputation keeps reaching out there to other athletes in the state, so we’re getting a lot of interest from the top volleyball players not only in our area but state-wide.” This group of thirteen athletes proves their talent in every match they compete in. Winning all twelve home matches this year and taking the regular season Conference Title, these ladies show their heart and dedication to the game with every dig, set, and kill. “We are a good ball handling team. We’re not necessarily the tallest team, but we are able to play with some of the upper caliber teams in Division II volleyball with our ball control and our speed,” Walsh said. Not only has the volleyball team done well for the season, but they have also set a school record among many other accomplishments. This talented group of young women has captured the title of back-to-back champions of the Fergus Falls Tournament. They have also checked becoming a nationally ranked volleyball team off their list of goals. Researching the Hall-of-Fame room in the Armory and throughout record books as well, it is proven that this year is the first-ever season that the Bismarck State College volleyball team has obtained the regular season Conference Title winning all of the 10 conference

Bike Shop Relocates

games this season. “Being successful makes us more driven. We are super driven to do well and it rubs off on our freshman and helps us to get us where we want to go,” Reamann said. Other than obvious chemistry on the court, this team is very close outside of the gym as well. Whether they come from the same town or met because of the sport, this group of ladies mesh very well together, which is another main aspect of their success. “You want to watch out for your team and your teammates to make sure that the team is always moving in the right direction, but I don’t think that you have to be best friends. However, I do think quite a few of them are friends,” Walsh said. Though this group of friends and teammates biggest goal right now is to make it to Nationals, there is still more work to be put in. Winning the West Region Tournament this last weekend, they are one step closer to their dream. “We can make history, so that’s obviously something that’s cool,” said Beaudoin. The ladies must capture the championship title of the East Region and District Tournaments before their desired trip to Nationals, but the hopes are high for the 2013 Lady Mystics Volleyball team.

Kelsie Seiler reporter

Photo by Kelsie Seiler Epic Sports expands merchandise and floor space as well as adding a coffee bar.

Epic Sports bike shop is moving to a new home in the former Hansen’s Furniture building at 411 Fraine Barracks Road in Bismarck. The local shop will be moving from its old location at 1501 Mapelton Avenue and opening in its new location by late Dec. 2013 or early Jan. 2014. The new location along Memorial Highway will allow more floor space, with the showroom expanding from 3,000 square feet in the current building to 5,000 square feet in the new one. This added space will allow the shop to broaden its merchandise selection. The bike shop will begin to sell running shoes and apparel, as well as competitive swim wear. The expanded floor plan will also accommodate a new coffee bar to be installed within the shop, which is becoming a growing trend for bike shops in the United States. The new updates coming to Epic Sports will transform the shop so that location will become a hip, fun, and exciting place for Bismarck’s young people to spend time.

Wheelchair Basketball Provides More than Wins Alex Stavig reporter

Basketball is a game of teamwork and unselfish play. Wheelchair basketball takes these concepts to a whole new level. Jackie Mrachek, physical therapist at Sanford Health, is one of the coordinators of Bismarck’s wheelchair basketball program. Although the state’s wheelchair basketball originated in Fargo, Dreams In Motion Inc. allowed the program to spread to Bismarck. Mrachek said players range from 2-25 years with visual and mobility impairment and all are welcome. The season is a 4-6 week period with 6-15 teams playing. Each team consists of a selected group based on physical impairment and mobility. Competitive groups with substantial mobility and recreational groups with

limited mobility are both available to participants. Games are played at Mandan Middle School and funding for the program is entirely non-profit and Dreams In Motion was recently provided $50,000 loan from the Autobremmer Foundation, an extension of Bremmer Bank in Bismarck. Mrachek said his allowed the organization to purchase specific wheelchairs for the sports so participants can further enjoy the sport. Wheelchair basketball is a unique and fun way to play the sport, proving it’s not about wins and losses all the time, but enjoyment as well. For more information go to the dreamsinmotioninc.com website or visit the organization’s Facebook page at facebook.com/dreamsinmotion.

Tanner Purintun reporter

This year’s men’s basketball team has a lot of new faces. However, one face that might look a little familiar is standout guard Justin McCloud. McCloud, a six foot three inch sophomore, is one of only two returning players from last year’s team that finished third in the conference and ended the season overall at 15-12. McCloud, a native of Bottineau, N.D., has been playing basketball since he was a young child. “I’ve been playing basketball since I was big enough to pick up a ball” McCloud said. However, basketball was not the only sport he played. McCloud was a three

November 2013

sport standout in high school, earning first team All-State honors in football, basketball, and baseball. “Basketball is my favorite sport, but I love sports in general,” McCloud said. “I put a lot of time into basketball in high school but I still enjoyed competing in my other sports.” After high school, McCloud was recruited by multiple schools and for multiple sports. Luckily for Bismarck State, he chose to play basketball and baseball for the Mystics. “I chose BSC because I knew I would get the opportunity to come in and play right away, rather than go to a four year university and not play as much.” McCloud said. This would turn out to be a good choice for the multi-sport athlete. Last season, McCloud averaged 16.4 points

per game for the Mystics. He also received first team All-Conference and All-Region honors while being named the team MVP. The 2013-14 season has just begun for the Mystics. However, McCloud has high goals for this season. “Our goal is to make it to the national tournament and then see if we can make some noise there.” McCloud said “It’s not an easy goal to achieve, but I think we can get there. We just have to improve every day and play our best ball at the end of February.” The Mystic’s first home game is Friday, Nov. 15 against Ft. Berthold Community College as part of the Warren Arman Memorial Classic. That game is scheduled to start at 8 p.m.

Photo by Morgan Brinkman

McCloud Ready for New Season

McCloud cuts through defenders to score a layup during the scrimmage against the University of Mary www.mystician.com

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November 2013

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5 7:00 pm • Welcome

7:30 pm • Keynote Address:

Clint Hill

• Former Secret Service agent to Kennedy family • New York Times Bestselling Author • Retired, decorated Secret Service agent

9:00 pm • Adjourn

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6

7:30 am • Registration 8:15 am • Welcome 8:30 am • Kennedy’s Thousand Days: A Quick Review • Clay Jenkinson

9:30 am • The Kennedy Mystique • H.W. Brands

10:15 am • Break/Book Signing 10:30 am • Mrs. Kennedy and Me • Clint Hill and Lisa McCubbin

11:15 am • Break/Book signing 11:30 am • Lunch 1:00 pm • Kennedy and the Race Question • Randall Kennedy

2:00 pm • Kennedy as a Strategist • Lawrence Freedman

2:45 pm • Break/Book signing 3:00 pm • Kennedy and the Cold War—Cuba • Lawrence Freedman

3:45 pm • Kennedy and the Space Program • Senator Harrison “Jack” Schmitt

4:30 pm • Kennedy and North Dakota • Kim Jondahl

Lectures, film clips and panels intermingled throughout the day

Symposium events will be in the Bavendick Stateroom on the 4th floor of the BSC National Energy Center of Excellence unless otherwise stated.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7

8:30 am • Dallas, November 22, 1963 • Clay Jenkinson

9:15 am • Last Rites and National Mourning • Clay Jenkinson & Dr. Larry Skogen

9:30 am • JFK and the Constitutional Aspects of Presidential Succession • Julia Ernst

10:00 am • Break/Book signing 10:15 am • The 9/11 and Warren Commissions: Personal and Historical Observations • Lorry Fenner

11:00 am • Conspiracy Theories and the JFK Historical Narrative • David S. Lifton

12:00 pm • Lunch 1:00 pm • John F. Kennedy’s Last Hundred Days • Thurston Clarke

2:00 pm • November 22 and the Presidency of Lyndon Johnson • Clay Jenkinson & Dr. Larry Skogen

2:45 pm • Break/Book Signing 3:00 pm • Robert Kennedy • Thurston Clark

3:45 pm • Wrap-up, Closing comments 7:30 pm Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra Concert

John Fitzgerald Kennedy was the 35th President of the United States. He served for just 1,036 days before he was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963. This November marks the fiftieth anniversary of that fateful day. Our purpose is to explore the life, career, politics, vision, character, and legacy of John F. Kennedy. We will spend part of a day discussing the assassination in a careful and rigorous way, but the focus of the public humanities symposium will be on Kennedy’s achievement and his legacy.