October 25th Issue

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October 25, 2012

Vol. 135, No. 7

Since 1884

North Pole voyage yields evidence of climate change Jayne Cole

on the journey. The crew brought minimal

Staff Writer personal items in order to prevent

Luther College hosted guest lecturer Thorleif Thorleifsson on Wednesday, Oct. 10. The Norwegian explorer spoke about his journey circumnavigating the North Pole in a lecture entitled “A Voyage Around the North Pole: Modern Exploration and Climate Change.”

Complete with video footage of the journey, Thorleifsson shared the ups and downs of his three month arctic exploration and also called attention to the climate change occurring as a result of global warming.

“It’s too late to be a pessimist,” Thorleifsson said of global warming attitudes.

Thorleifsson encountered many challenges on the trip, including legal issues with international borders, the short summer season and copious ice.

“We followed recommendations of mythologists to take long detours,” Thorleifsson said of how they navigated their journey.

Thorleifsson traveled with a four-person crew from different parts of the world including France, Norway, Russia and the Middle East.

“We concluded that we succeed because we managed to work it out,” Thorleifsson said. “We were well-prepared for anything that could go wrong.”

Thorleifsson used a small, environmentally

unnecessary added weight.

“We practiced radical simplicity with food and technology,” Thorleifsson said, adding that the boat included one laptop to check the weather, which was vital.

His inspiration for the journey around the North Pole ranged from pure adventure to environmental concerns of seeing the reduced ice caps for himself.

“I wanted to do something different,” Thorleifsson said. “I get crazy new ideas.”

Thorleifsson invited the audience to go and see the effects of global warming. what is up there,” Thorleifsson said. “I think it is wise for us to go and bring back stories because of what is happening.”

However, Thorleifsson also hoped to inspire students to be creative in inventing ways to stop global warming because, as demonstrated by his journey, the effects can already be seen. said. “Next, we need creativity. We can’t solve the problems in traditional ways. We need a new creative approach to a traditional approach.”

The trip around the North Pole, which once took 6 years, took Thorleifsson and his crew 80 days because the amount of ice is Thorleifsson continued on page 10

Photo Courtesy of Mercedes Martin

Surveying the damage. Briana Shekels’ Jeep was hit late Saturday night.

Student faces charges Michael Crowe &

Editor-in-Chief

Ingrid Baudler

News Editor

Decorah Police responded to a car accident on Luther Campus at approximately 11:30 p.m. on Saturday Oct. 20.

Responding Officer Jim Frost wrote in his description of the incident that the witness told him Daniel Mendoza (‘15) was seen “…driving down Dike Rd below Dieseth Hall on Luther College campus at a high rate of speed and lost control of his vehicle, jumped the curb and struck a parked Jeep and pushed it into two other vehicles and bounced off across

the drive aisle and crash [sic] into another parked vehicle pushing it into two other parked vehicles before coming to a rest.”

The report then states that witnesses saw Mendoza exit the vehicle through the driver window.

“It is my opinion that the defendant was intoxicated and too impaired to operate a motor vehicle safely,” Frost wrote in the report of the incident.

Following the incident, Mendoza was observed by Frost to be unresponsive to “pain stimulus,” and was taken to the emergency room at Winneshiek Medical Center where a blood Arrest continued on page 10

Active Minds reactivates Katherine Mohr

Casey DeLima/Chips

“It’s an eye-catcher.” Active Minds wrote mental health statistics on red umbrellas and hung them on trees around campus Oct. 7-13.

problem on campus,” Stoiber said. “People

Staff Writer were definitely educated by it.”

Active Minds has started on campus again after having been inactive for one year.

Their first act as a reorganized group was to hang red umbrellas from trees in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week, which was Oct. 7-13.

“It’s an eye-catcher, and we put the facts [about mental health] on the umbrellas, specifically Luther statistics,” Active Minds’ Vice President Sadie Stoiber (‘15) said.

The facts written on the umbrellas were from the National College Health Survey, which many Luther students took last spring.

“I was pretty surprised by the facts, like how much mental health is actually a

Active Minds was restarted by president Aaron Budihas (‘15) and Dylan Hinton (‘15).

“We decided that there needed to be some sort of group like this,” Budihas said.

The Active Minds that was operating two years ago dissolved because many of the members graduated.

The group identifies three main purposes of their Active Minds chapter: to spread mental health awareness and literacy on campus, to promote and foster mental wellness and to bridge the gap between students and counseling services.

Active Minds continued on page 10

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

News

2

October 25, 2012

Luther students travel to conference, present Campus Satelite sustainability proposals Student vote 2012:

Voting Station

Carrie Juergens

Staff Writer

Luther students and Decorah residents from Precincts 3, 5 and 6 voted in Dahl Centennial Union from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. using satellite absentee polling stations on Wednesday, Oct. 24.

Assistant Dean of Student Life Jane Hildebrand helped make this a possibility for students and residents alike.

“Charles Banta (‘13) as Student Senate President took the initiative to put this in place,” Hildebrand said. “The election year is an opportunity for students to be responsible citizens.”

Banta petitioned at the Activities Fair to try to encourage awareness and submitted the document to the County Auditor.

The petition was approved, and there were two outside entities that also submitted requests for satellite voting stations at Luther.

Having a satelite polling station on campus is expensive because the county provides workers for the sites, using taxpayers’ money to provide the salary of those working at the stations. Through discussion with administration, students and faculty, the county auditor decided that one station would be more appropriate to the school’s needs than three stations.

On the day the station was available, President of the Luther College Republicans Aime Karam (‘15) expressed hope that students took advantage of the on-campus station.

“I hope that lots of people use it,” Karam said. “It’s important for young voters to get out and use the resources available to them.”

In the days leading up to voting using the satelite voting station on campus, Karam and other students shared information about it, hoping to inform students across campus.

“It’s a really good thing, but lots of people don’t know what a satellite polling system is,” Karam said. “If the message isn’t spread across campus, no one will know.”

There’s still time to vote even for students who didn’t use the satellite absentee polling stations.

Voting will be available until Nov. 6, and there are local polling stations at the courthouse for students claiming Decorah as their town of residence.

Hildebrand expressed hope that students inform themselves not only of the national issues but also the individual state legislation up for determination before voting.

“The main idea is to be an informed voter,” Hildebrand said.

“If you live in Minnesota, the questions regarding marriage and voter ID will only be available on ballots for your state, so make sure to get an absentee ballot, or to vote at home if you have a preference regarding these decisions.”

Noah Nelson-Gross

Staff Writer

While many were enjoying time with their families over fall break, a small group of Luther College students and faculty made their way to Los Angeles to present in the annual Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) sustainability conference.

Luther has been incolved in the conference for around five years. However, Tina Yates (‘13), a presenter at the conference, explained that this year was different.

“In the past they have only sent sustainability staff and coordinators,” Yates said.

“This is the first year they have sent students there.”

Yates presented on sustainable foods purchasing guidelines, which Luther College has been using when working with Dining Services and Sodexo to begin sourcing local food.

The sustainability staff are also excited about student participation in sustainability on a national level. Associate Professor of Philosophy Jon Jensen (‘89) directs the environmental studies program here at Luther, but he is also on the board for AASHE. “Luther has developed a reputation as being one of the leaders across the country in campus sustainability, and going to this conference and having students present their work provides an opportunity to display the great things we are doing at Luther and sharing that with other

Courtesy of Nathan Haines

Discussing development. Luther student Nathan Haines (‘13) gives his presentation on the rideshare website offered by Luther. people,” Jensen said. “We made it more intentional this year in terms of getting Tina to go there, and also with Nathan’s work in computer science, which was a great opportunity to share student work with others.”

Nathan Haines (‘13) has been doing work with the rideshare website being offered by Luther and also presented at the conference this year.

“The rideshare website makes it easier to carpool,” Haines said. “Instead of having three people driving to

Nathan Haines/Chips

Introducing innovating ideas. Luther student Tina Yates (‘13) explains sustainable concepts to curious conference attendees.

the same place, or having their parents come to pick them up, we just have three different people riding in one car saving money on gas, carbon emissions and overall being more sustainable.”

The website is open source, which means that it is free for other institutions of higher education to use unlike similar services.

“We predict that we will be shipping out exactly what Luther is doing to a lot of universities, some as big as 80,000 students, over the next couple of years,” Haines said.

In the end, these presentations and the AASHE conference as a whole are bringing more ideas and dialogue to the table as far as sustainability across higher education is concerned.

“You cannot do sustainability alone,” Haines said. “Sustainability is not an individual, independent endeavor.”

Haines emphasized the importance of teamwork for future sustainability success.

“You have to work together, whether that means students working together on campus or colleges working together in higher education,” Haines said. “That’s what this conference is about, it’s about working together and finding new ideas to move forward in sustainability.”

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

News

October 25, 2012

Seven-day Forecast

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Arts & Entertainment

4

October 25, 2012

Banjo songstress blends folk traditions Margaret Yapp

Staff Writer

About ten years ago, Abigail Washburn was on her way to law school in Beijing when she decided to do one last road trip down the East Coast of United States. She had been involved in music throughout her early life, but when she picked up a banjo on this road trip she became truly invested.

“I was traveling around before going to grad school in Beijing when I went to a music festival,” Washburn said. “I think that was my first time officially jamming, and I was quite afraid. But I sat there and was with a few other girls when a guy came up and offered myself and one of the other gals a deal to do a duo-album.”

That album never went through, but the offer opened the door for Washburn to do music professionally.

In her early twenties at the time, she decided to go to Nashville for a few years to do music and has not left since.

“I knew that I was going to spend Photo Courtesy of npr.org my entire life’s work in China, so I “City of Refuge.” Washburn’s music is a unique blending of Chinese folk and American bluegrass and folk traditions. figured why not take a few years off?”

Washburn said.

“It was really great to have Abigail Washburn travels back and forth here,” Carl Bates (‘15) said. “She is from the United States and China, primarily a banjo player, which is an intertwining Chinese folk influence instrument that really has a niche in with traditional American bluegrass music; it is always cool when you get and folk roots. This makes Washburn’s to hear it because it is not a mainstream music hard to define. instrument. Her close ties with China “I wouldn’t be doing music if it were really great to hear about because weren’t for my experience with I have been to Beijing, it was really China,” Washburn cool to relate said.

“The two to the cultural are completely experiences she intertwined.” has had there.”

On Saturday, Washburn is Oct. 20, Washburn an unusual artist and partner in for Luther to music Kai Welch host, but students visited Luther’s in attendance Center for Faith largely believed Photo Courtesy of nodepression.com and Life. that Luther Clawhammer banjo. Washburn has been playing banjo for ten years.

Washburn and -Abigail Washburn should bring more Welch have been musicians like her making music to campus. together for the “Students of past three years and are on their last the college and members of the stretch of shows in the States before community would be better benefited Washburn returns to China. by bringing in musicians such as Coming to a musically rich town like Abigail who have had a really unique Decorah was bound to stir up some experience, as opposed to groups like conversation about her unique sound Colbie Caillat or fun.,” Bates said. and how it relates to the student body “They have something to share with here. Many students sat amongst a their music. It is not just pop music, mostly older crowd and their reactions they have something to say.” were largely positive.

“I wouldn’t be doing music if it weren’t for my experience with China. The two are completely intertwined.”

Sunday Service @10:30am . St. Benedict School (402 Rural Ave.) . 563-387-7706 is offering rides from campus to their 10:30 church service. A van with the LifeHouse logo leaves from the Union @ 10:00 Sunday mornings.

Photo Courtesy of carolinaperformingarts.org

Welch & Washburn. The two artists collaborate in the writing and performance.

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

Arts & Entertainment

October 25, 2012

5

Photo Courtesy of sphinxmusic.org

“Music of the Americas” The Sphinx Virtuosi and Catalyst Quartet perform as part of the Center Stage Series.

Brita Moore

Staff Writer

Detroit’s Sphinx Organization is spreading diversity in the classical music world. Its premier ensembles, the Sphinx Virtuosi and the Catalyst Quartet, will perform “Music of the Americas” at Luther on Oct. 26.

“They create a culture of recognition in classical music for people of color,” director of campus programming Tanya Gertz said.

The Sphinx Virtuosi is an 18-member chamber orchestra, made up of alumni laureates of the national Sphinx Competition for black and Latino string

players. Founded in 1997 by Aaron Dworkin, the mission of the Sphinx Organization is, “to transform lives through the power of diversity in the arts.” The number of people of color involved with classical music has more than doubled since Sphinx’s inception.

Sphinx’s concert at Luther is part of a tour that includes stops at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. They work without a conductor and play a wide range of musical styles.

“All of our programming is very diverse in scope,” principal cellist Karlos Rodriguez said. “The Virtuosi focuses of African-American and Latin music from all over the world. But sometimes we play Bach, Schubert, or Arvo Pärt.”

The Catalyst Quartet consists of the principal players of the Virtuosi. Along with leading the Virtuosi, it is the faculty quartet at the Sphinx Performance Academy during the summers.

“The Catalyst Quartet focuses on new American voice,” Rodriguez said. “The culturally. But we pride ourselves on

covering all of the bases, like Brahms and Haydn. We’re trying to balance between traditional string quartets and new music quartets.”

The program for Friday night will bring a fresh perspective on string music and interesting compositional modes.

“It’s been a fun program, especially because some of our pieces haven’t been played very much,” Rodriguez said. “[Heitor] Villa-Lobos was a self-taught composer and had no real training, and it can be challenging for people to get behind it. We’ve made that piece our own.”

Sphinx Virtuosi has garnered incredible accolades from music critics for its talent.

“This is a really legit group,” Gertz said. “Their story does not surpass their musicality.”

Gertz also welcomed Sphinx to the Center Stage Series because of their community outreach efforts. The ensemble will work with the Decorah High School orchestras and will have a meet-and-greet session with Luther

students on Oct. 25.

“We go into schools and play for all different types of kids during tour, where there’s need for musical community involvement,” Rodriguez said.

Now the organization has reached 100,000 students nationwide.

The meet-and-greet will give the Sphinx players a chance to tell their stories to the Luther community. It will be targeted toward string players, but all are welcome.

“Students can talk to some people who are ‘making it’ in the world of string playing,” Gertz said.

The Sphinx competition is open to any black or Latino violinist, violist, cellist, or bassist in the United States, with the junior division for ages 12-17 and senior for ages 18-25. Interested students can read more at sphinxmusic.org.

The meet-and-greet will take place Oct. 25 at 8 p.m. in the Center for the Arts atrium. The concert is Oct. 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the Center for Faith and Life.

KWLC Album Review: “The Heist” Tony Chase

Another aspect that separates “The Heist” from other

more “bumpin,’” your tastes will also be satisfied. The

topics both meaningful and of good quality, like the tribute to the equal marriage rights movement “Same Love.” The song stands out not only because of how relevant the topic is, but also because how painfully true the verses ring. “No law’s gonna change us / We have to change us / Whatever god you believe in / We come from the same one / Strip away the fear / Underneath it’s all the same love / About time that we raised up.”

Hard-work anthems find their place on the album with the down-to-earth jams “10,000 Hours” and “Make the Money.” Many other artists produce music with similar themes, but when listening to their music while remembering the duo chose to go without any financial support from a label, the words “Make the money, don’t let the money make you,” seem to sink in further than the skin.

If you’re someone that likes hip-hop that is a little less socially aware and a little

“White Walls,” “Can’t Hold Us” and the party track “Castle” all get one’s juices flowing.

In “Jimmy Iovine,” Macklemore sends his response to the music and film producer and chairman of Interscope Records who offered him a record deal saying, “I replied I appreciate the offer, thought that this is what I wanted / Rather be a starving artist than succeed at getting f******.”

There are more tracks on the album that speak to tough topics, such as relationship strain and a song regarding drug relapse that features Ben Bridwell of Band of Horses.

“The Heist” exceeds expectations. The subjects, the beats, the rhymes, all done with more thought and execution than most rapper/producers. 93 out of 100. Recommend this to your friends, siblings and grandparents. Especially the grandparents. They deserve to hear good music too.

Hip-hop Music Director rap albums is the ability to make music about tough online hit “Thrift Store,” the tricked-out car inspired

I’ve never been more excited than when listening to Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’ long-awaited album.

“The Heist” gives a better understanding to the creative talents of Macklemore as a rapper and Ryan Lewis as a producer. Finally, we get to enjoy the independentlyproduced album that has sat atop the iTunes charts for four days.

The Seattle-based duo has a knack for producing hip-hop with a sharp and clean feeling. In “The Heist,” Lewis’ beats are complex without being sloppy, and Macklemore’s raps contain the same sense of smooth creativity, an aspect that most “mainstream” rappers either choose to ignore or fail to champion.

Photo Courtesy of xxlmag.com

DIY. “The Heist” was independently released and produced.

Opinion

6

CHIPS

Chips is a student publication of Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.

The paper is designed, composed, edited and managed entirely by Luther students. It is published weekly during the academic year, excluding the month of January.

The opinion section is designed to provide a forum for Chips, its staff members and the Luther community. Opinions expressed in articles, editorials or columns do not necessarily represent the views of the Chips staff. The author is solely responsible for opinions expressed in Chips commentary.

Chips will not accept submitted articles or campus announcements.

Submissions for letters to the editor should be submitted as a word document to chipsedt@luther.edu with “Letter to the Editor” as the subject line. Letters to the editor are subject to editing without changing the meaning of the letter. Authors will not be notified of changes prior to publishing. Letters must be signed, 300-400 words and submitted by Sunday at 5 p.m. the week before publication. Publication of all letters is at the discretion of the editor.

Contact Chips Phone: 563.387.1044 Fax: 563.387.2072 E-mail: chipsedt@luther.edu Advertising: chipsads@luther.edu website: http://lutherchips.com

Fall 2012 Staff Editor-in-Chief...................Michael Crowe Managing Editor..........................Ethan Groothuis News Editors........................Ingrid Baudler Sarah King Features Editor......................Jessy Machon A&E Editor..........................Charlie Parrish Sports Editor..........................Jena Schwake Staff Writers..............................Tony Chase Jayne Cole Carrie Juergens Katherine Mohr Brita Moore Bailey Mulholland Noah Nelsen-Gross Walker Nyenhuis Matt Yan Margaret Yapp Head Copy Editor...................Benj Cramer Copy Editors...............................Katie Hale Kirsten Hash Ad Representative.................Charlie Bruer Michael Johnson Ad Accountant......................Sam Matheson Photography Coordinator..........Casey DeLima Videographer.....................................Bryce Kilker Web Manager...........................Noah Lange Web Technician...................Nathan Haines Design Technician...................Noah Lange Social Media Director..............Drew Mick Illustrator..........................Michael Johnson Adviser.............................Martin Klammer Associated Collegiate Press National Online Pacemaker Award 2011 lutherchips.com

October 25, 2012

Staff Editorial

Endorsing Equality

In the coming weeks, Minnesotans will decide whether their woman, denying the institution and accompanying rights to homosexual couples across the state.

We ask that as our readers go to the polls, they not forget those this will affect – not some faceless ‘other,’ but their friends, neighbors and fellow students.

According to the 2010 Census, there are over 13,000 gay couples registered in Minnesota. We at Luther are fortunate to have a vibrant and diverse community. This community deserves the same rights, regardless of sexual orientation.

But the rights don’t just end the ability to publicly show their love and say ‘I do.’

Over 200 legal rights are directly connected to marriage in Minnesota, including hospital visitation access. Imagine your partner of 50 years is dying. Even if you’ve lived with your

partner – regardless of gender – for 50 years, you could legally be denied visitation rights if unmarried.

This is precisely what is at stake in Minnesota.

This is a sentiment that has been made many times before, but we, the Chips editorial staff, want to be clear that we support marriage equality, and strongly urge those who are able to cast their ballot in Minnesota to vote ‘no.’

A huge decision is to be made in the coming weeks regarding the rights of couples, and polls predict it to be a close race.

The U.S. was founded on freedom, and this amendment encroaches on the freedom

“The U.S. was founded on freedom, and this amendment encroaches on the freedom of a

In response to the Oct. 11 editorial

by Noah Lange (‘14) concerning the Luther adaptation of “Much Ado About Nothing.”

To the Editors, This letter is in regards to Noah Lange’s Oct. 11 column, “Much A-don’t about Abridgments.” While I respect Mr. Lange’s freedom to his opinion, I would like to rebut several of his points. It should be noted that as a member of the cast, I have a vested interest, but I believe my points are valid nonetheless.

In the article, Mr. Lange places the greatest importance on monologue.

It is important to understand the difference between monologue and soliloquy. A soliloquy is a special type of monologue in which the character’s inner thoughts are expressed. I think that soliloquy is what Mr. Lange wants to discuss, as he defines monologue as: “allow[ing] us to understand characters’ motivations, [and] hint[ing] at thoughts left unsaid.” Yet I am unsure, as the examples Mr. Lange gives are simply monologues to other characters. They do not reveal any hidden motivations or thoughts left unsaid, because the thoughts are said and the motivations are made known to the other characters.

Mr. Lange quotes two specific phrases whose cutting contributed to the “emotionally flat romantic comedy” presented. The first is Beatrice’s line, “over-mastered with a piece of valiant dust.” This line was not cut. The second is Benedick’s, “all disquiet, horror and perturbation.” Mr. Lange takes this line out of context.

Benedick is not addressing the gender politic; he is upset because Beatrice

-Editorial Staff

Please, vote no to the marriage amendment.

Whatever your religious or political beliefs may be, realize that others should not be legally obligated to share them.

Do not vote to make discrimination a part of the Minnesota constitution.

was mean to him. Mr. Lange wants the protagonists’ relationship to be “vicious” and “vitriolic,” but he forgets that at the end of the play, they get married.

As to the exclusion of Balthasar, yes, he was not in this production.

However, he was in Dr. Muggli’s abridged script, and it was through technical issues that the character was not included. Nevertheless, the character is generally insignificant, having 11 lines throughout the whole show. His one significant line is a song re-emphasizing that love can be tricky, saying “Men were deceivers ever, / One foot in sea and one on shore, / To one thing constant never.” I hardly hold this song discussing how men can be wishy-washy to be “valuable and disturbing insight.”

All of this is to be taken into account before considering any practical considerations. It would be impossible

for any college theatre company to put together a three-hour performance with only one month to rehearse, and no audience would want to sit outside in the cold of October for that length of time.

My greatest qualm with this article, however, was that it was published while the show was still running.

It was in bad taste for the editors to run such a negative column of a show in which Luther students were still participating, possibly dissuading an audience from coming. This is especially the case seeing as Mr. Lange did not review the acting of the play, but the construction.

Furthermore, this article acts as a thinly veiled attack against Dr. Muggli, which is not only disrespectful to the well-respected professor, but to the entire production who put their trust into Dr. Muggli’s abridgment.

-Maxwell R. Lafontant (‘13)

Par for the Norse

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

Opinion

October 25, 2012

7

Opinion: Neal Abbott (‘15)

A Minnesotan for Traditional Marriage

This November, Minnesotans have the opportunity to vote on a proposed amendment that would define marriage in our state’s constitution as between one man and one woman. I, as many others will, voted “yes” to this proposed amendment on my absentee ballot a few weeks ago.

I have always believed marriage to be a sacred bond between man and woman through the intercession of Christ and His Church, but moreover, I acknowledge that the primary function of marriage is, and always will be, procreation. A stance such as this on homosexual marriage seems to be absolutely unbelievable here at Luther. Everyone seems to be absolutely astonished and completely perplexed as to how I could hold such a preposterous viewpoint. But is my perspective and reasoning really that unheard of, or are views like mine being shut down and discouraged because of overwhelming liberal domination on campus? I vote for the latter.

The problem is that people are never willing to talk about it. And, if they do want to talk about it, they don’t really want to talk about it. People automatically assume that, because you are a conservative Republican and a devout Christian, you are a bigot, homophobe and religious nut. This is absolutely not true.

On multiple occasions I have heard of people speaking ill of me behind my back, using exactly the

kind of labels I listed above. Too many “liberals” here at Luther just don’t get it. If Luther is all about encouraging diversity and discovering yourself, why is it that conservative-minded people can’t so much as post an informational status on Facebook without fellow students jumping all over it? Why do upperclassmen chant “MITT!! MITT!! MITT!!” at me mockingly, just because they saw me walking in the homecoming parade with the LC Republicans?

Liberals like to believe that they are all about acceptance, but let’s reason with them right now: The same hate that liberals stereotypically associate with coming from conservativeminded Christians, they are actually casting down upon US every day. This hatred stems far beyond the issue of homosexual marriage; this is clear to me now. So what do we, as conservatives and Christians, do? We step back, stay silent and take it. Perhaps it is time for liberals take a page out of our book and learn to respect us and our beliefs as we do theirs.

“

is, and always will be,

I’m a member of Chi Theta Rho, probably the most unknown sorority on campus. I am also one of the pledge mistresses, also known as a pledge trainer, and, as Colby said in the video, we allow the girls to express when they feel uncomfortable with any dress-up day that we have.

While we do not write our letters on our faces, our pledges do wear a name tag In response to the Oct. 11 video story “On Sorority Haze”

I want every conservative Minnesotan out there who is struggling to come to terms with the liberal nature of this campus (and yes, I realize there are far many more liberal campuses in this country, but is there one where the student population is so tight and everyone knows everyone as we do here at Luther?) to know that you are not alone.

Voting “yes” on the Marriage Protection Amendment this November does NOT make you a bigot, homophobe, or religious zealot.

You are NOT forcing religious beliefs on others. You are NOT worthy of the hatred and discrimination that you may be receiving. You -Neal Abbott (‘15) ARE, however, ensuring that an institution that has been defined based on principle as between one man and one woman since its inception is not subjected to redefinition based on the political notions of politicians and justices. Do not be afraid to be conservative on this campus. Do not be afraid to practice your faith. And do not be afraid to vote “yes” this November.

pledge. We do these dress-up days as a part of tradition, something our sorority has done for years, long before I pledged. As far as

Professor Slind’s comments, I do not believe pledging and the dressing up involved distracts anyone, unless they allow it to become a distraction.

As a freshman, I had two girls pledging Tau Delta Gamma in my religion class, and neither of them was a distraction. In fact, everyone in the class, including our professor, was interested in knowing the particular dress up day before class started.

Once class began, the focus was on the topics being covered, NOT the pledges’ attire.

I know on Wednesdays, the Tau Delta

Gammas carry around a bucket or cup where loose change can be dropped in that will go to the March of Dimes.

Each pledge comes into the pledging process for any of the sororities knowing exactly what she is getting into.

The criticism that come along with each pledge season are frustrating for those of us involved in Greek life on campus, as we are proud to be Greeks and proud to be a member of whatever sorority or fraternity we belong to.

-Anna Derdzinski (‘14)

Across the Pond: Angela Stancato (‘14)

Batman, spikes and junderwear, duck Having recently celebrated my month-iversary with Nottingham, it seems appropriate to reflect on both its charms and, well, more bizarre qualities.

As for its charms, Nottingham has a lively city center with all kinds of shops dedicated to any product one might need, especially clothing. Oh, fashion in Nottingham. We have all been interested, nay, shocked to behold the trend that is jean

shorts over black tights. Really, some girls’s jorts could be more appropriately termed “junderwear” (copyright Marissa Schuh).

Watch out, America – it could be coming for you soon. A rise in spikes on clothing has also been noticed, especially in key places like the shoulders of a sweater, the breast cups of a tight dress, or the toes of flats. It seems that British designers

have either collectively decided to provide women with the means to be their own walking anti-rape weapon, or the coy Brits feel that appearing to be too cuddly would make them too American.

Spikes aside, Nottingham is rich in history and boasts a very charming piece of castle. Sure, there’s only one remaining hunk but it’s still nice to see.

And if you want to see a whole building, there’s always Wollaton Hall, or Batman’s Wayne Manor if that makes more sense, which is filled with taxidermied animals, including a giraffe. Luckily the impressive display of taxidermy is balanced by a lively deer population that lives on the grounds of Wollaton. They are rivaled only by the gaggle of geese that run rampant on the Uni campus, not unlike Luther’s squirrels.

As for the people of Nottingham, they are lovely.

We have enjoyed the company of many people who have seen the Nottingham program progress through the years. Notable of these people are Margaret and Sharon who run the fruit and veg stand, Ye Olde Potato Island. They provide us with scrumptious produce and celebrity gossip magazines. They are two of many people who readily call us “love” or Nottingham’s colloquial term of endearment, “duck.” Yes, “duck”.

I could write about this for days, so I’ll end with a laundry list of reasons why to love Nottingham: minimal customer service (that means no one stalking you through the racks of clothes), Shakeaway (they make milk shakes, enough said), amazing foods from all ethnicities, CIDER, watching “Downton Abbey” live (the same goes for “Doctor Who”), living a two hour train ride from really any other city in England and living in a flat with seven hilarious people.

LUTHER COL

8

Featu

October 25, 2012

‘Life’s an adventure’: Re Matt Yan

Imagine leaving Luther, going to school in a different country for an entire year and immersing yourself in an unfamiliar culture. That is what twelve Luther students do every year when they sign up for the Nottingham study abroad trip in the UK. Nottingham while also taking courses taught by a Luther professor leading the program. Now in its 41st year, the Nottingham program has provided many Luther students a welcome sojourn from the grind of American college life.

Associate Professor of Communications Studies Mark Johns was the 20112012 Nottingham program director. He and his wife lived in Nottingham for over a year, moving into their house in late June two summers ago. “[The program is] unique in several ways,” Johns said. “The students live together in close community so there’s a little of the Luther bubble that they take with them. At the same time, they are studying at a British university and traveling around Europe. It’s that combination between the close Luther community and being thrust out that makes it a unique experience.”

Living away from friends at Luther can be a challenge, even for Natalino Guterres (‘13), who studied in Norway prior to coming to Decorah. said. “I missed everyone from Luther. It’s a big university so you don’t really get to know people. [The Luther students] had different schedules so we didn’t go together to the Uni.” If you’re sick and tired of being swamped with schoolwork here at Luther, you might appreciate the university system in England. At the University of Nottingham, students take courses that meet about once a week for an hour or two, and homework is almost nonexistent. Sound appealing? That’s because it is. The only downside is that the majority of the course grade is based on

time. Nottingham, with its numerous art galleries, museums, music venues

Staff Writer and sports arenas, offers many opportunities for those willing to put in the effort.

“After being in small-town Decorah, it was really nice to be able to jump on a bus and twenty minutes later you’re in the center of Nottingham with all kinds of shopping and interesting things to do,” Alex Forbes (‘13) said.

Named one of the top ten city destinations in the world by travel publisher humble lifestyle of Decorah.

“We only have Roscoe’s here, but over there they have a lot of bars and pubs,” Guterres said.

Since the drinking age in England is 18, students were able to consume alcohol at the various pubs in town.

“Sometimes you’ll hear of churches that have pubs in them,” Feldkamp said.

“Schools have pubs; universities have pubs on campus because they assume all students are of legal age. They’re not super strict about ID because there’s this honor system of university students learning how to handle alcohol.”

Students are also expected to get involved in the community through volunteer work, which adds another aspect to life in Nottingham.

“There were so many things to do, so many kinds of food, so many different people to meet and hang out with and activities to get involved with, especially charities or volunteer organizations,” Feldkamp said. “I volunteered at a food kitchen in a church hall once a week, for the second half of the year.

That was really rewarding. I got to help people who were unable to care for themselves. It gave me a really healthy perspective on Nottingham life to get out and meet all these different people living there.”

Students also get time during the year to travel wherever they want around Europe. For some, this is the most exciting part about the program. because over the breaks, you’re locked out of

Forbes said. “I traveled all over Europe and gained so much independence. Sometimes when you’re traveling you’re all by yourself and you can’t rely on anyone. It was scary.

I had never done anything like that before.”

Among all the varied experiences that students have, one thing seems to be certain: You will learn something about yourself, whether you want to or not.

“I learned a lot of what it means to stressful for unaccustomed students. forget what people will think, to look past “Over there, it’s a lot more individualized what people will say and to live in the where you put in what you want to get out moment,” Feldkamp said. “A lot of of it,” Ben Feldkamp (‘13) said. “I really liked people [are always] planning for that for a change of pace. It gave a balanced the next fun big thing, but every perspective on life. You don’t have to be in a moment can be like that if you mental state all the time about school.” choose to put in the time and energy.

Given that school consists of a few hours I took so much out of it, that sense Courtesy of Alex Forbes of ‘if I want something I’m going devoted to classes each week, students are left with more free Golly, what a day. A statue of Robin Hood and Little John in Sherwood Forest. to go for it.’ Life’s an adventure.”

Top left: Nottingham st Kohnen (‘13), Sarah Th Lake District in northwe

Top right: Noah Nelsen Forest. (Photo courtesy

Bottom right: The who Christmas photo. (Phot

Student au

Walker

Courtesy of Kristina Nienhaus

Simple faith. Author Kristina Nienhaus (‘13) signs copies of her children’s book, “Made of Love” in the Book Shop.

The act o on bucket l Kristina Ni checked of “Made of L “I’ve alw said. “I thi really enjoy happy insid kid that I w “Made of story of a y is Catholic that all gen “Often t complex,” believe or in what we believe an

LLEGE CHIPS

ures

October 25, 2012

9

eflecting on Nottingham

tudents Noah Nelsen-Gross (‘13), Chelsey hell (‘13) and Julia Walter (‘13) walk through the est England. (Photo courtesy of Alex Forbes)

n-Gross (‘13) gets put in the stocks at Sherwood y of Alex Forbes)

ole Nottingham gang gets together for a to courtesy of Natalino Guterres)

thor brings love to the page

r Nyenhuis

Staff Writer

of writing and publishing a book is a popular goal lists across the nation, and even across campus. For ienhaus (‘13), this is one item that has been recently ff with the publication of a children’s book titled Love.” ways wanted to do a children’s book,” Nienhaus ink we all can think of a children’s book that we yed reading when we were little … It just makes me de to know that perhaps this book may reach some won’t even ever know.” f Love” is written in the form of a poem and tells the young child asking God about the world. Nienhaus and wanted to present ideas of her faith in a format nerations can understand. times we make our religion and faith really Nienhaus said. “I feel that in the end what we what we feel is so universal. Things divide us e specifically believe … but in the end, what we nd what we hope for is love and that goodness

that’s all around us.” that the experience was surreal because she has worked in the The book is short and simple, but the process of having it Book Shop since her first year at Luther. published was several years in the making. Nienhaus drafted “I’ve helped with book signings before,” Nienhaus said. the original poem in high “To have one of my own there school before deciding to was really cool … I didn’t include original watercolor feel like I belonged there.” illustrations.

Though it is not easiest “The idea came to me and it process, Nienhaus encourages just flowed,” Nienhaus said. people to pursue self“It’s a really great feeling and publication if they have a story I’m sure that other people have they wish to share. She notes -Kristina Nienhaus (‘13) felt it regarding something that crafting the book was a they’re really passionate great learning experience and about and they really enjoy doing.” completing it was a tremendous personal accomplishment.

Nienhaus used CreateSpace.com to self-publish “Made “I was just so thankful that all that hard work and hours of of Love.” She decided against going through a publishing looking at a computer screen were totally worth it,” Nienhaus company because of a negative publishing experience with a said. “It’s a really good feeling, knowing that this is not only poetry collection. something that I will be able to look at, but I’ll be able to “The product was not good,” Nienhaus said. “I just decided, share with other people.” like a lot of people do, if you want something then you have Copies of “Made of Love” can be purchased in the Luther to do it yourself.”

Book Shop and ordered online through Amazon.com. Students Nienhaus held a book signing in the Luther Book Shop who would like a personally signed copy can contact Kristina during Homecoming weekend on Saturday, Oct. 6. She notes Nienhaus at nienkr01@luther.edu.

“It just makes me happy inside to know that perhaps this book may reach some kid that I won’t even ever know.”

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

News

10

October 25, 2012

Thorleifsson sails around the North Pole Thorleifsson continued from page 1

“One important thing to know is that global warming is affecting the polar regions in a disproportionate way,” Professor of Religion Jim MartinSchramm said. “This has a big effect on weather.”

Callie Mabry (‘94), who gave the night’s introductory speech, thought the lecture suited Luther very well and that the images provided by Thorleifsson’s lecture were very powerful.

“Whenever you see something, you are more likely to do something about it,” Mabry said. “Before, it was just an abstract idea, but actually seeing the results of climate change made it hit closer to home.”

Thorleifsson was brought to Luther College by the Norweigan Embassy in Washington, D.C. as a part of an organized tour to colleges around the country.

“The embassy works hard to maintain a connection with colleges founded by Norweigan immigrants,” Assistant to the President Karen Martin-Schramm, who helped organize Thorleifsson’s stay, said.

Karen Martin-Schramm said Casey DeLima/Chips that the guests were impressed Luther’s hospitality.

Icy adventures. Thorleifsson listens to an audience member’s question during his lecture. by

“[Introductory Lecturer] Mari Saether was so taken by Decorah and Luther,” Karen Martin-Schramm said. “She left feeling embraced by the community and place.”

Luther students felt that Thorleifsson’s lecture was inspiring and also relatable.

“He really applied to college kids and how we’re the next step,” Jamie Stallman (‘14) said. “We’re the reason he came down.” representatives that had dinner with Thorleifsson before the lecture. He was particularly inspired by the similarities he found with Thorleifsson.

“He was super friendly and extremely personable,” Stallman said of Thorleifson. “At the end of the conversation, he got into life philosophy and how we should always be prepared and always improving, which is interesting because that is what I try to do.”

Lecture attendee Travie Houle (‘15) was also able to relate Thorleifsson’s environmental message to everyday life.

“The lecture proved that no matter what you do, you can incorporate environmental awareness into your life,” Houle said. “It was really inspiring.”

Students’ cars hit and damaged in Regents parking lot Arrest continued from page 1

sample was taken. BAC results are unavailable at this time.

Mendoza has been charged with OWI. Briana Shekels (‘15), Holly Williams (‘15) and Paige Clark (‘15) were called to the scene around midnight because their cars were hit.

“I haven’t estimated the cost of the damage yet but I’m pretty sure the money I get from insurance will not cover all of the damages,” Shekels said. Shekels drives a red Jeep,

charge Mendoza with violating the Luther Code of Conduct.

Students found to be drinking underage or damaging property in the college or community are in violation of the Luther Code of Conduct and are subject to disciplinary action by Luther. Vice President and Dean of Student Life Corey Landstrom declined to comment because of Luther’s ongoing investigation.

Mendoza was also arrested in Sept. and has pled not guilty to the charge of ‘Burglary in the 2nd Degree’ with the defense of ‘intoxication,’ according to the Iowa District Court records.

Photo Courtesy of Sam Gathje Mendoza did not respond to requests for comment.

Arriving at the scene. Police and an ambulance came to the lot after receiving a call about the crash.

Students keep wellness in mind Active Minds continued from page 1

“There are lots of people out there who have issues with mental health who want to get help but don’t know what to do or feel like they’re alone,” Stoiber said. “This is a good starting point to tell them it’s more common than you think, you are not alone and there is a group out there who wants to help you.”

Active Minds plans to organize Casey DeLima/Chips social events that connect to Facing the facts. The statistics on the umbrellas were meant to inform students about mental heatlh. positive mental health. Their first

will be a bonfire at Dunning’s Spring on Friday, Nov. 2.

The group hopes the social aspect as well as being out in nature will help participants take a break and relax.

“Not only are [social activities] an opportunity to talk about mental health awareness but they also create mental wellness through socialization and friendship,” Budihas said.

Though some students found the facts about mental health on the red umbrellas shocking,

Active Minds members see it as a foundation for growth.

“It may be scary, but it’s important to realize that this is actually happening and once you know it’s a prevalent problem on campus, you can get the tools and resources you need to get help,” Stoiber said. “Know that there is an organization out there who is specifically there to help you with these situations.”

For more information or to join Active Minds, contact Budihas at budiaa01@luther.edu.

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

October 25, 2012

Sports

Knights lance Norse

11

NORSE SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE

Photo courtesy of Cheryl Schwake

Set! Ready? GO! The Norse line sets up for another offensive drive. Luther fought for 304 total yards of offense.

“We’ve got to continue to get better at what we do. Every aspect, week Jena Schwake Sports Editor in and week out, has got to be done to the best of our abilities.”

Coach Durnin also commented on the team’s work ethic during The latest chapter of Luther’s longstanding rivalry with Wartburg practice, commending them for their ability to persevere.

“They’re very focused,” Durnin said. “They understand that in life defend their respective schools, yet the game ended in a Luther defeat, – as it is in football – things are going to happen. You keep going 24-10. forward, and you control what you can control. You don’t control “The team came out and played extremely aggressively,” wide sometimes what happens, you control how you handle that situation, and that’s what they’re doing.” possessions and the defense played very well all game, with multiple tackles for loss.”

Offensively, Luther gained 304 total yards to Wartburg’s 322. Dan Ridenour (‘13) rushed for 89 yards, and quarterback Kody Moore (‘13) added 236 passing yards.

James Knutson (‘13) led the defensive attack with nine tackles, while Matt Bitz (‘13), Conner Herman (‘15) and Trent Kerrigan (‘13) contributed six apiece. connected with Adam Bohr (‘13) on a 68-yard touchdown pass.

Hometown: Decorah, Iowa Sport: Soccer Position: Midfielder Norse Accomplishments: IIAC First Team AllConference in 2011 Favorite part of playing soccer at Luther: The team! I love spending time with my teammates every day, both on and off the field.

halftime score to 10-10.

The third quarter was scoreless for both sides, but a pair of fourth quarter Wartburg touchdowns tipped the scales in their favor, 24-10 – a “We had a few mental mishaps that cost us,” Helle said. “As a team we have to keep our focus and intensity throughout the whole game.”

Head Coach Mike Durnin stressed the importance of this focus as the Norse prepared to take on Wartburg.

“Our main focus is on getting better as a team, and not worrying about who we’re playing when it comes to rivalries,” Durnin said.

Elly Arend (‘15)

Jena Schwake/Chips

Double the trouble. #98 Colin White (‘14) takes on two offending Knights during the Oct. 13 contest in Waverly.

BREAKFAST ALL DAY! M t W th F s Su

“Nothing fancy, just good food” 817 Mechanic St. Decorah 52101

Pre-competition ritual: Listening to music, dominating in “Heads Up, 7 Up” and just getting excited for the game with my teammates.

My sports role model is: Darren Taylor a.k.a.

Professor Splash. He is the best in the world at what he does: shallow water diving.

Favorite childhood cartoon: “Rocket Power” If I could have any superpower it would be: Probably invisibility so the other team can’t see me.

Sports

12

Double-crossed Staff Writer

Mordini said. “I don’t feel as much pressure since there is only one other

Casey DeLima/Chips

Friendly competition. Devon Hovey (‘15) chases down Kaymi Lang (‘15).

to see them come into their own as the Norse runners.

Thompson sees a strategic difference between dual meets and regular meets.

“Running together in pack is crucial

The Norse will begin post-season competition with the IIAC Championship meet on Saturday, Oct. 27 at 11 a.m. in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Thompson also enjoys the simplicity of having only two teams in a dual meet.

“I like the dual because it gives

4-0 3-1 3-1 2-2 2-2 1-3 1-3 0-4

7-0 5-2 5-2 3-4 2-5 2-5 2-5 0-7

Loras Wartburg Dubuque Central Simpson Luther Coe Buena Vista

IIAC 6-0-0 5-1-0 4-1-1 3-2-1 2-4-0 2-4-0 1-5-0 0-6-0

Overall 14-4-0 11-3-2 9-5-2 11-5-1 9-7-0 7-8-1 7-9-1 9-8-1

Recent scores: -Oct. 17 @ UW-Platteville W 2-1 (OT) -Oct. 20 @ Coe W 2-0 Upcoming schedule: -Oct. 27 First Round IIAC Tournament TBD

Thompson said. “You know who you’re

“I like the dual because it gives everyone a clear goal to focus on.”

Volleyball

Women’s Head Coach Yarrow Pasche spoke about how the dual is important both historically and in

Wartburg Coe Loras Dubuque Central Luther Simpson Buena Vista

places, respectively. season schedule.

Luther edged away “UW-La Crosse with a 23-34 victory against their oldest -Soren Thompson (‘14) has a very strong program year in and dual rivals. Since 1955, Luther and UW-La Crosse have raced 57 times.

In the men’s race, Jackson Espeset both teams prepare for their conference (‘16) took second place in the four-mile Pasche also commented on the with a time of 21:22, leading a group of

Espeset’s heels with a time of 21:24.

Matt Rubins (‘13), Brock Laue (‘13)

Overall

Women’s Soccer

Rounding out Luther’s Wegman (‘13), Nicole Powers (‘14) and Bailey Mulholland (‘15) in

IIAC

Upcoming schedule: -Oct. 27 @ Buena Vista 1:00 p.m.

-Nov. 3 vs. Coe 1:00 p.m.

Thompson said. “It’s easy to get stuck when compared to other races.

“I know it’s a good race to try to run

Football

Recent scores: -Oct. 13 @ Wartburg L 10-24 -Oct. 20 vs. Central L 14-31

Luther’s men and women grabbed a pair of home victories over UW-La Crosse on Oct. 19. The wins came less than a week after a similar matchup at the UW-La Crosse Jim Drews Invitational on Oct. 13.

The women dominated the 4k race by for an 18-42 victory. Leading the women was race winner Lauren Mordini (‘16) with a time of 15:20, ahead of teammate Lauren Stokke (‘13), who took second place with 15:36.

“Receiving this personal and team

Weekly Standings Coe Simpson Wartburg Central Buena Vista Dubuque Loras Luther

Norse dominate UW-La Crosse in home dual meet.

Tony Chase

October 25, 2012

been more present this year in all campus sports, not just cross country.

“We have an outstanding group of

IIAC 6-0 6-0 4-2 3-3 2-3 1-4 1-5 0-6

Overall 26-4 20-11 14-16 14-19 8-14 12-16 9-20 4-23

Recent scores: -Oct. 19 vs. Iowa Wesleyan W 3-0 -Oct. 19 vs. Coe L 1-3 -Oct. 20 vs. UW-Oshkosh L 0-3

Women’s Tennis Tony Chase/Chips

The Odyssey. Matt “Odysseus” Iudin-Nelson (‘15) stays ahead of his competition.

Coe Luther Wartburg Simpson Central Buena Vista Dubuque Loras

IIAC 7-0 6-1 5-2 4-3 3-4 2-5 1-6 0-7

Overall 8-1 10-1 9-3 8-5 8-4 4-7 4-7 1-13

Men’s Soccer Loras Dubuque Wartburg Luther Simpson Central Coe Buena Vista

IIAC 6-0-0 5-1-0 3-2-1 3-3-0 2-3-1 2-4-0 2-4-0 0-6-0

Overall 16-1-1 11-4-1 7-7-2 9-5-2 11-7-1 6-9-2 5-11-1 5-10-1

Recent scores: -Oct. 17 @ UW-Platteville L 0-1 (2OT) -Oct. 20 @ Coe W 1-0 Upcoming schedule: -Oct. 27 First Round IIAC Tournament TBD Casey DeLima/Chips

The race is on. At the sound of the start, the Luther women take off in an excited flurry of multicolored shoes.