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November 15, 2012
Vol. 135, No. 10
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MRSA infection persists on campus Walker Nyenhuis
Staff Writer
See the signs, heed the warnings and wash your hands. Cases of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, also known as MRSA (pronounced murr-sah) have been appearing on campus since the beginning of the semester. Student Health Services hopes to contain the infection by increasing student awareness and intervention. “Staphylococcus aureus, or ‘staph’ is a common bacteria that about 25 to 30 percent of the population carry on their body at all times,” Director of Student Health Services and Nurse Practitioner JoEllen Anderson said. “In a Luther population of [approximately] twenty-four hundred that means 720 students have staph. MRSA is just a different form of staph.” Similar to a staph infection, MRSA is typically spread through skin contact. An infected area looks like a pus-filled bump similar to a pimple or bug bite and feels firm and enflamed. “The problem comes when the bacteria gets under the skin either through little cracks, cuts or abrasions,” Anderson said. “Then an infection can appear.” An infection of MRSA can easily be avoided if Walker Nyenhuis/Chips students do not share personal care items such as Battling bacteria. Legends work study Libby Kropp (‘14) and her co-workers obey the signs by spraying and wiping towels and razors. However, the simplest and most down all equipment with disinfectant to aid in preventing the spread of MRSA to those exercising at the factility. effective method of prevention is frequent hand In May 2010, after noticing a red streak on her out there and I was being proactive. When you notice washing. “Just about everything that we contract or pass on to arm, her condition became serious enough that she that you’re not feeling right and there’s a rash or a somebody else can be greatly reduced if proper hand was hospitalized. The infection had reached her bump, go to the doctor and get it checked out. The bloodstream. sooner you get checked it out the easier it is to treat.” washing is done,” Anderson said. “I was surprised that I got it because I’m very germJessie Conley (‘13) has suffered from an infection MRSA Infection of MRSA twice since beginning her Luther career. conscious,” Conley said. “I knew that infections were continued on page 10
Senate amends their consitution Students mind Margaret Yapp local mining Staff Writer of Regents and how they are appointed. spring decided to change it to all three
Luther College Student Senate recently made alterations to their constitution, changing both the number of student representatives to the Board
“The constitution change is one that we didn’t catch in the spring,” Banta said. “When the committees to the Board of Regents were cut from four to three students, the Student Senate in the
Margaret Yapp/Chips
Discussing decisions. Sophomore Student Senate Representative Libby Logsden (‘15) confers with Senate Member Oketekyie Dakwa-Agyekum (‘13) about the most recent amendment to the Senate constitution.
of those positions strictly being voted in.” Luther College’s Student Senate is a group of 31 representative students from every nook and cranny of campus. Assistant Dean for Student Life and Student Senate Advisor Jane Hildebrand (‘74) and Student Senate President Charles Banta (‘13) lead the Senate. Meeting every Tuesday evening, the Senate discusses a variety of student issues, always keeping the well-being of the broad Luther community in mind. The change to the constitution is comparatively a small one, but it changes how students are represented in the Board of Regents. Not only was the number of students represented cut from four to three, they are now entirely voted in, rather than being annually appointed positions as they were previously. Representatives must also be from within the Senate and can be nominated by fellow senators or selfnominated. Senate changes
Tony Chase
Staff Writer
New Albin’s colloquially known “Sand Cove” has kicked up a storm with local environmentally concerned citizens. A recently proposed sand mine in the Cove, located in nearby Allamakee County, has spurred some to action on campus and in the surrounding communities. Luther’s Environmental Concerns Organization (ECO) presented “Gasland,” a documentary focused on the negative results of frac mining. Induced hydraulic fracturing is a technique to release petroleum, natural gas or other resources or substances for extraction, commonly known as “fracking.” Environmental Studies major Logan Langley (‘13) discussed how the future of the regional community could be affected by fracking. “With the mine proposals in Allamakee County, there is concern by some about the future of Winneshiek County and if it will face these questions in a few years,” Langley said. “The hope was to educate anyone who was Fracking
continued on page 10
continued on page 10
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
News
2
November 15, 2012
Feminists strive for a safer campus
Photo illustration by Katherine Mohr/Chips
Joining together for a safer and more aware campus. LC Fems are encouraging students to wear red on Thursdays to show their support for survivors of sexual assault.
Katherine Mohr
Staff Writer
The Luther College Feminists are implementing two initiatives to help keep all students safe. The first is Red Against Rape, a campus-wide event in which students are encouraged to wear red each Thursday in solidarity for those who are victims of sexual assault. The second is a safe-walk program, where a person in need of an escort could call from town. Volunteers would staff this program. Strength and solidarity: Red Against Rape Red Against Rape began in October as a way for students to show their support for victims of sexual assault on campus. Members of the LC Feminists hope it will encourage understanding among students that sexual assault occurs at Luther. “It’s our way of showing [survivors]…we’ve got your back, we’re on your side, we believe you, we’re with you on this,” Maja Proescholdt (‘15) said. Members also see the project as a way to highlight advocates for those who may be victims of assault. “We could be seen as social support for [assault
survivors]. These are faces you know, you can talk project that provides students with a safe way to get to when you have issues,” Grace Swanson (‘14) home from bars or clubs each weekend. said. The group would ask Sexual assault is one of the volunteers of any gender to most underreported crimes for offer their time on a Friday or a number of reasons, Director Saturday night. Anybody who of Campus Safety and Security wanted to could call to ask for a Bob Harri said. group to escort them home. “One [reason] is it’s a difficult Though the program is still topic to talk about, another is in its infancy, the group sees it that, oftentimes, it’s somebody going far. the victim knows,” Harri said. “I can’t think of a better 54 percent of sexual assaults way to stay safe than a student are not reported to police, organization, with a student according to the Rape, Abuse idea, helping other students,” and Incest National Network Gracie Coletta (‘14) said. -Gracie Coletta (‘14) (RAINN). Harri thinks the program The LC Feminists realize that will develop into something sexual assault does not only students can use. affect women. “We certainly try to encourage “This is for everyone and it’s a way to show our students to think ahead, figure out how they’re solidarity for every one of them, for all genders,” going to get home and certainly have a plan B if Proescholdt said. something doesn’t work out,” Harri said. “Any kind Safety in numbers: Safe Walk Home of initiative that gets people thinking about their The LC Feminists are also hoping to initiate a safety is a good thing.”
“I can’t think of a better way to stay safe than a student organization, with a student idea, helping other students.”
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
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November 15, 2012
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Mosquitoes spread bacteria + clams fight for rock space = math Matt Yan
3
Staff Writer
Many students probably assume that it isn’t possible to do math research. Shane Wilson (‘13) and Sarah McRoberts (‘14) would disagree. The two math majors have done research in the math department with Assistant Professors of Mathematics Kyle Fey and Michael Johnson, respectively. Wilson and McRoberts both presented their work at the undergraduate research symposium sponsored by the Midstates Consortium on Nov. 3 in St. Louis. McRoberts conducted her research this summer at Luther with Johnson as her mentor. She explored how to program cellular automata, which are grids of cells that are either marked or unmarked. They can be used to model the movement of organisms. “The project is sort of a twist on what are called dynamical systems, which are usually used to monitor populations,” McRoberts said. “Here we’re talking about things that stay in one place. We looked into rock. The idea of using math to relate to how sea life develops was interesting and fun.” grasp, but McRoberts enjoyed working on it. “A lot of the language that you use in math–it really feels like it’s the alphabet for the language my brain uses,” McRoberts said. “It’s something that comes really naturally to me and something that I can very easily apply to other parts of life. It’s a nice lens to have when I look out on the world.”
Johnson believes that the research is applicable to “You can use it as a model for life,” Johnson said. “It’s a really nice way to model how life evolves for things that don’t move far.” Wilson is continuing his for his senior project. Dengue fever is one of the most widespread mosquito-borne diseases in the world, and researchers are trying to use of the bacteria wolbachia. “[Wilson] is looking at the best way to release wolbachia-infected mosquitoes into the general population so that they’ll take over and minimize the spread of [dengue fever] infection to humans,” Fey said. Wilson spent the summer at North Carolina State University working with a professor on a model for wolbachia spreading in mosquitoes. “With Professor Fey I’m working on integrating that model with existing models for transmission of dengue fever between humans and mosquitoes,” Wilson said. Given that the work he is currently doing is for his senior project, it will not be complete until the end of the year. For Johnson, the interest in research only “I think because we have a lot of students that are interested in a wide range of things, we have a really interesting department and the students really are a lot of fun to work with,” Johnson said.
Compiled by: Ingrid Baudler News Editor
Petraeus shocked to hear of emails, associates say Former CIA Director David Petraeus was shocked to learn last summer that his mistress was suspected of sending threatening emails warning another woman to stay away from him, former staff members and friends told the Associated Press Monday. Petraeus told these associates his relationship with the second woman, Tampa socialite Jill Kelley, was platonic, though his biographer-turnedlover Paula Broadwell apparently saw her as a romantic rival. Retired Gen. Petraeus also denied to these associates that he had given Broadwell any of the sensitive military information alleged to have been found on her computer, saying anything she had must have been provided by other commanders during reporting trips to Afghanistan. *** Israel reports ‘direct hits’ on Syrian target Israeli tanks struck a Syrian artillery launcher Monday after a stray the neighbors since the Syrian uprising began nearly two years ago. The confrontation fueled new fears that the Syrian civil war could drag Israel into violence, a scenario with grave consequences for the region. “We are closely monitoring what is happening and will respond appropriately. We will not allow our borders to be violated or our citizens a speech to foreign ambassadors. *** Indiana blast investigation focuses on natural gas The search for what caused a massive, deadly explosion that rocked an Indianapolis neighborhood turned to natural gas Monday, with could be to blame. The National Transportation Safety Board sent investigators to check a gas main and other lines serving the neighborhood where two people were killed and seven injured in the weekend blast. Local gas supplier Citizens Energy said it also was checking gas lines and a meter at the home that exploded. saying only that they do not believe a meth lab was to blame for the explosion that obliterated two homes and severely damaged dozens of others. *** Many on NY’s Long Island still dark after Sandy Two weeks after Superstorm Sandy, while most utilities have restored electricity to nearly all their customers, there was one glaring exception Monday: a Long Island power company with more outages – almost 60,000 Monday – than all the others combined. As people on Long Island fumed over the cold and the darkness and complained that they couldn’t get answers from the company, the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) said in its defense that the storm was worse than anyone could have imagined and that it didn’t just damage business breaker boxes. *** Police: Alleged car thief made food deliveries Police in Connecticut say a man stole a car used to deliver Chinese food and continued dropping off orders so he could keep the customers’ money. Keith Hinds was charged on Friday with larceny, possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and other drug charges. West Hartford police received a call from a Chinese food delivery driver reporting that his car had been stolen after he left it idling to run into a school.
Photo courtesy of Michael Johnson
Not your average math problems. Sarah McRoberts (‘14) (center) and Shane Wilson (‘13) (right) present their research at the Midstates Undergraduate Research Symposium.
Life outside Luther compiled from: http://ap.org
Features
4
November 15, 2012
A well-deserved honor Presser Scholarship recipient Phuc Phan (‘13) on his history with the cello and his “good luck”
looking for a musician who embodied what we are trying to teach here in the music being an excellent cellist, Phuc is also one of
all types of boundaries within our department and, as the faculty voted, he is one of the As both a cellist and a collaborative pianist, Phan has become a familiar face in the music
Noah Nelsen-Gross
Staff Writer addition to his music studies, Phan frequently
At ten or eleven years of age, Phuc Phan (‘13) was given a choice that would end up to get into a conservatory in piano, they asked “How did that happen?” Phan recalled with some
two years, and it just Some things are
like a professional because they treat you
“I didn’t even pick the cello. I didn’t know the cello, but I decided to give it a shot. One year, two years, and it just kind of happened.”
and be responsible
to perform at that This pleasure in collaboration is something that is echoed within the
a viola instructor and director of Phan has recently -Phuc Phan (‘13) Philharmonia, Martin been awarded the has collaborated with 2012-13 Presser Phan on multiple Scholarship, a $4000 endowment awarded to occasions in the past and was also part of deciding on the recipient for the Presser “Phuc plays cello so beautifully, such a “Phuc plays like a professional,” Martin here,” Associate Professor of Music Spencer Through all of this praise, Phan has maintained a sense of wonder and gratitude But being the Presser Scholar has to do Courtesy of Phuc Phan
“We were looking for a student who had excellent academics, but we were also
Playing like a pro. Phuc Phan (‘13) performs with the Symphony Orchestra.
Courtesy of Phuc Phan
Creative collaboration. Phan works with Kristin Underwood at an ArtHaus event.
Zach Stottler
A momentous occasion. Jim Buzza presents Phan with the scholarship.
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
Features
November 15, 2012
5
Professors on Sabbatical
Fostering global relationships Brita Moore
Staff Writer
Anthropology Department Head research will add to the course
Professor of Anthropology Lori Stanley (‘80) is dividing up her sabbatical time between writing a book, traveling and preparing to
of Truman Washington Dailey, the
doctoral dissertation, for which she “We worked extensively with Dailey and his sister Lizzie Harper, who had retained more grammatical and lexical knowledge of Chiwere than anyone else we worked with
sabbatical will affect her J-term
with host communities there and open up possibilities for involving more Luther faculty and students in the deep partnership that has developed over the past ten years,” This particular J-term is not
“My goal now is to identify ways in which our group can work alongside the Maasai to meet needs
Stanley ended up narrowing her communities where we live and contributed information about the
notable example is the Maasai
Courtesy of Lori Stanley
Long-term relationship. On the 2011 Tanzania trip, Lori Stanley (‘80) (right), Rachel Hodapp (‘13) (center) and Annie Whiteley (‘13) (left) pose with several Maasai “mamas.”
helped identify medicinal plants which can be made into soap at a project and my work with Dailey in teaching linguistic anthropology, especially in teaching about linguistic analysis, language death and revitalization, and methods
Stanley has previously served as
help the school become more selfshe intends to spend several weeks in Tanzania studying Kiswahili intensively and is working on Tanzania for 2014 and enhancing
“My dream is to develop a longterm partnership between Luther and Maasai communities,” Stanley Lastly, she will prepare to return to the classroom after six years outside of it as an associate dean, updating previous courses such as
linguistic anthropology and cultural anthropology and developing a new
mission, particularly her Tanzania
“The new course will be developed in consultation with the ACM postdoctoral fellow in indigenous
opportunities for other faculty and students to participate in teaching, learning and research in an international setting where Luther College is well known and highly
No Shave November: Things get hairy Margaret Yapp
Staff Writer
Perhaps all of the time racing will give Raiche a
Emotions were high this week as Luther men continued
Joel Barkel (‘13) strong females across campus are BEARing their legs, au
For the past two weeks, Barkel has been the man
Phil Hanson (‘16)
Sam Raiche (‘15) A wisp of bleached hair and the occasional musical chuckle were
slightly angsty music, tapped on his wooden
had found the correct man among the packs of hungry students in
coming in beautifully, he had returned to nature and he had somehow mastered the perfect cup
Phil Hanson was sitting in solitude on his futon in the damp basement of Brandt
Margaret Yapp/Chips
Margaret Yapp/Chips
the conversation turned
has become practically the point where my beard is starting to become conscious, Margaret Yapp/Chips
when the members of and has continued to take part in it for the sole purpose of Hands in pockets, Hanson led the way to a brilliant
“The chlorine is inhibiting my facial hair growth,”
own time, but he is using the voices of others to his own
When he is not playing cheeky Christmas tunes
What Barkel needs to realize is that he is no longer
Unfortunately the multiple practices every day make it
Maybe it has gotten a bit thicker, but the kind of thick
6
Arts & Entertainment
November 15, 2012
Bailey Mulholland/Chips
Diakite grooves Malian blues-funk Bailey Mulholland
A member of the highly prestigious Bureau of Malian
Staff Writer Artists, Diakite has worked with many musicians in Mali as
Africa may be thousands of miles from Decorah, Iowa, but Tani Diakite and the Afrofunkstars managed to transport its feel to Luther College on Friday Nov. 9, bewitching their audience with cool and lively reggae rhythms. A native of Mali, a country in northwestern Africa, Diakite moved to Madison, Wisc. ten years ago with his American wife, carrying with him a musical style he’d been surrounded by since birth. “I’ve always been a musician,” Diakite said. Diakate explained that music has always been important in his family and culture. With the Afrofunkstars Diakite sings and plays the kamele n’goni, a lute-harp made from goat skin stretched over a gourd. A predecessor of the American banjo, the kamele n’goni is tuned to a pentatonic scale, which lends itself to a bluesy sound. Add beats from four djembe drummers, a guitarist, a keyboardist and a bassist and the music of Tani Diakite and the Afrofunkstars produces an irresistible and widelyacclaimed sound.
well as in the United States. The Afrofunkstars is actually a newer group he formed with fellow musicians two years ago. They have played at various venues throughout the Midwest, including festivals, coffee shops and colleges. Cooridinator of Student Organzations Dan Bellrichard (‘01) knew Diakite was certain to be a hit at Luther. “Tani played here 5 years ago,” Bellrichard said. “When Claudia Calderon of SAC Diversity was searching for another performer, I mentioned him.” Calderon (‘15) was pleased with the suggestion. “We thought it’d be a good idea [to invite Tani] because it’s uncommon to see a band performing music from western Africa around this area,” Calderon explained. “We thought the students [would] enjoy listening to a different kind of music.” Calderon’s prediction proved correct. A decent-sized crowd of students, faculty and community members were present in Marty’s for the performance and all demonstrated enthusiasm for the band and its music. Attendees Danielle Border (‘15) and Jason Leuthold (‘16) expressed appreciation for an opportunity to
experience something new. “I liked the laid-back coolness of their style,” Border said. “It’s a different genre than we usually have on campus. We’re a music school. but we don’t usually have this kind of music.”
consider attending more unique ethnic performances. Leuthold’s attendance was originally motivated by academics, but he was glad he went. “I’m taking an African history class, so I thought it’d be neat to see a little bit of the culture from western Africa,” Leuthold explained. “I enjoyed it very much. The music’s great to dance to.”
abandon. All were soon drawn to their feet however, enchanted by West African rhythms that possessed the power to disintegrate inhibitions and elicit a smile on every face. “Music makes people connect,” Diakite said. “I want to travel and share my music with everyone. It’s one thing that all people can enjoy.”
Movies you missed: “Rubber” wi Ethan Groothuis
Managing Editor
Photo Courtesy of whatculture.com
Rollin’ Robert. Meet the serial killer, who never gets tired.
started pouring a glass of water onto the ground. Then a tire came to life. “Rubber” is the most interesting and surreal movie ever created. This 2010 indie comedy stars a tire that comes to life and becomes a serial killer. The movie is a self-proclaimed homage to the “no reason” movie. Many aspects of the plot are meant to be far removed from reality, and they happen for no reason. The entire genesis of the tire (he is credited as Robert), and his gaining psychokinetic
powers are just a few of the many examples of the banal things displacement from reality. hours in fron Another interesting story arc involves a group to question of spectators who are watching the events with room). binoculars. Periodically, the characters plagued The best p by the effects of the magical tire interact with the crafted it is. spectators, including trying to poison them to end the movie sooner. French electronic musician-turned-director Sunday Servic Quentin Dupieux masters silence as a set-up joke, whose punchlines are placed to incite roars of laughter. Although there are many sequences that involve the human characters, the tire scenes are what shine, especially in terms of humor. The tire many times reduces itself to exploring really
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
November 15, 2012
Arts & Entertainment
Jayne Cole
musical family, Souza learned to love
7
Souza sings Chet Staff Writer jazz and practiced frequently with her
Grammy Award winner Luciana Souza hosted a calming evening for Luther College, bringing bossa nova and jazz to the Center for Faith and Life on Nov. 8th. “I hope that in this crazy time of year, Luther will be able to catch a glimpse of peace and beauty,” Director of Campus Programming Tanya Gertz said. Described by Gertz as “luscious and beautiful,” Lucian Souza and her quartet performed original songs from her newly released album “Duos III.” The album celebrated her Grammy Award winning album “Brazilian Duos.” Souza also performed songs off her other new album, “The Book of Chet,” which includes selections from the late jazz musician Chet Baker. “I wanted to make a record of standards and Chet Baker’s voice attracted me,” Souza said of her album. Deeply inspired by Baker’s work, Souza played each of his songs in an original way to showcase her own talent. A crowd favorite was the slow and melodic rendition of “Forgetful,” one of Baker’s less popular songs. Perhaps the biggest inspiration for Souza was her Brazilian heritage. Souza performed many Brazilian jazz songs during the 90 minute concert. Charming anecdotes about the history of the song accompanied each Brazilian piece. A favorite among the audience was a traditional ditty that included imitations of ducks. “I always hope that folks who come to hear will be moved and transported to a different place,” Souza said. Souza’s main focus was showcasing music over voice. Audience members enjoyed a performance that showcased each song as a whole with neither lyrics nor instrumentals overpowering the other. “Everything I do is tempered by Brazilian music and by jazz, which means that it has a deep sense of rhythm and improvisation,” Souza said. The journey to Grammy Awards began at an early age, as Souza’s interest in music was discovered at her own home in Brazil. Growing up in a
parents and siblings. Her father was especially influential. “My strongest influence was probably my father and everything he and my mother played on the record player at our house which was mostly bossa nova and jazz,” Souza said. Souza then went on to attend school, perform and later teach in the United States, where she now resides. Accompanying her on Thursday were drummer Clarence Penn, guitarist Larry Koonse and bassist Darek Oleszkiewicz. Souza’a calming voice and happy numbers provided Luther with a relaxed evening that left the audience deeply impressed. “I loved it. I enjoyed it so much,” Amanda Peck (‘14) send immediately after the show. “A few times I just closed my eyes and enjoyed the music. It was beautiful.” Jazz enthusiast and Performing Arts Committee member Rachel Duncan (‘14) thought it was phenomenal. “By the way she described things you could tell how important to her the music was,” Duncan said. The Performing Arts Committee, who helped arrange for Souza’s performance last year, hoped to reach a variety of students with their selection, especially since the Jazz Orchestra traveled to Brazil last summer. “I think it is neat when we can bring an artist that connects in different ways,” Gertz said. “Especially with a gorgeous representation of voice on a campus that loves voice.” Souza advises Luther students to continue expressing interest in jazz. “Some of the best advice I got when I was younger was to ‘listen well’ and to ‘stay honest about my art and my expression.’ These things are two very important things for musicians and I think they end up being good advice for everything else I do in life,” Souza said. The Luciana Souza Quartet will next travel to Sioux Falls and then to Tokyo, Japan. Thursday’s performance was the final fall show in the Center Stage Series. The series will begin again in February. Students are able to begin purchasing tickets in December. Photo Courtesy of www.chicagoreader.com
ill have you rolling with laughter
s, like wanting to swim or spending nt of a television (you are not supposed how or why the tire rented his own
part of “Rubber” is how meticulously Despite being just a tire puppet and a
ridiculous concept, Dupieux cares so much about his subject that the audience can tell what the tire is feeling and thinking. You can sense the tire’s curiosity experimenting with crushing pop cans as well as his blatant lack of remorse after a brutal murder. The camera follows Robert the
ce @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.
tire with more deliberation than a usual subject, which makes the audience become attached to the character. “Rubber” is not for those unprepared to watch
of the movie, mostly because the premise starts to overstay its welcome. This riff on B-movies is nearly spot on without falling into the pitfalls it is parodying. For those with patience for a
Opinion
8
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 Peter Jarzyna 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
November 15, 2012
Opinion: Roast Mutton
The power of silence
Casey DeLima
Photographry Coordinator
As a first-year last year, there was a rare moment when I’d be silent. I was in the constant pursuit of conversations and warm exchanges. Despite paying so much money to get an education, social experiences took priority to academic work. Every second I spent alone was spent wishing I were with someone else. It didn’t even need to be a friend, it just needed to be a human with a pulse. In contrast to the vivacious, loud and bubbly first year I was then, I now spend a lot of my time alone, lurking in the dark corners of buildings or walking solo downtown for most of my waking hours. I’m not entirely sure what happened between this year and last, but I’ve changed and learned a lot. It’s not that I don’t love human beings — people are my passion! It isn’t that I don’t love good banter or an intriguing conversation, but I suppose I don’t understand the point of conversation for conversation’s sake, noise simply to make
noise. Our culture seems to have a fear of silence, and people our age often experience trepidation at the thought of spending even a moment alone. How often do you pity or judge the people you see eating alone in the caf or Marty’s? All too often we assume that these people aren’t alone by choice, but instead were forced to be alone. Being alone becomes a sort of torture or punishment. But what is so wrong with a little alone time? I’ve experienced what a lot of college students eventually discover — the realization that alone time is essential. For most of us college students, there’s rarely a quiet, solitary moment in our hectic lives. When we’re not pounding out papers and studying for mid-terms, we’re desperately trying to keep our social lives afloat. The rest of our time is devoted to extracurriculars and sleep. These are all important things — don’t get me wrong. Every now and then, however, time alone is necessary. When else do we get time to center ourselves and really relax? Loneliness and being alone don’t have to go hand in hand. It’s almost unfortunate that those words come from the same root because the word ‘loneliness’ gives the phrase ‘being alone’ a bad wrap. Time spent solo can be beneficial, and doesn’t always result in loneliness, just as being lonely doesn’t always mean you’re alone, as cliché as it is. Just because someone is alone, doesn’t mean they’re sad or lonely. They weren’t necessarily forced to be by themselves. It just might be their choice. I’m not encouraging anyone to break away from their social lives and become hermits who refuse to make eye-contact. I’m just saying that it’s pointless to fear something that really isn’t so scary.
Across the Pond: Aubrey McElmeel (‘14)
Harry Potter and British misconceptions I can’t tell you how many times people told me to “have fun in London” or ask “when are you leaving for London?” before I came to Nottingham. I eventually gave up trying to correct them, as it seems that most people in the US have a strong mental image of what England is like and they won’t be corrected. Well, I just thought I would dispel some of those rumors for you right here and now. First off, England and London are not the same thing. There are so many different cities and places to go in England that are just as cool as, or even cooler than, London (and cost a heck of a lot less). Don’t get me wrong, London is amazing and when I’m there I feel like I’ve just stepped onto a movie set, but going to a smaller city can feel just as “British” and is bound to be less crowded. Secondly, not everyone has the same accent. You know how in the US, accents vary from region to region or even state to state (I’m looking at you, Minnesota)? English accents do the same, but often vary between cities. It’s similar to when you think of the Midwest accent as no accent, the posh, London accent, the “BBC English” is the English version of no accent. Thirdly, there’s the idea that everyone in England watches “Doctor Who.” Actually, that one’s true. Moving on. Fourthly, there is this idea that everyone in England is “posh.” You know what I mean: always dressed up, hair slicked back, tie lying just right under the sweater vest or blazer. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who actually dresses like that. In reality, most people here are pretty casual, and for the ladies, hair is usually far from slick and neat. To get your fix of ties and blazers, look
to the school kids in their uniforms hanging out in the city center after school. Lastly, England is not just like Harry Potter. I know, I’m a bit disappointed too. But even though I’m not going to school in a castle and learning to brew potions, I’m having a marvelous time here. It’s rainy, which makes the rare sunny days really special and exciting. People call you “love” and apologize when you run
into them. Tea is generally the drink of choice, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a Starbucks on every street. Basically, the England you see on TV and in movies isn’t necessarily what England is really like, at least not all of the time, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less cool. (shameless plug) If you want to know more about my adventures, you can check out my blog: nottanothertravelblog.tumblr.com.
Par for the Norse
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
Opinion
November 15, 2012
9
Editorial: Great taste, less filling
Call me Scrooge McDuck
Ethan Groothuis
Managing Editor
Including not liking “The Avengers,” promoting mass vasectomies and worshipping nuclear power, I hold many unpopular opinions. However, none of those opinions are as unpopular as my growing
distaste for Christmas. At the beginning of November I already feel swamped by holiday advertising and something needs to change. While many are already overjoyed at the thought that Christmas is 40-some days away, I hole up in my room, Grinching away at the merry passersby ogling at the falling snow. To clarify, I never used to be this way. Christmas is always one of the biggest highlights of the year for children, although they are usually more intrigued by presents than anything else. I also don't believe that Christmas has been hijacked by capitalism or that commercial Christmas is all that remains. Many people use Christmas as a way to spread cheer to their neighbors, friends and even strangers. What bothers me is how early Christmas keeps arriving. I don't mean that the holiday is moving. The actual day is always December 25th. So why do advertisers think I care a week earlier every year?
Partially it is due to companies feeling the need to remind consumers that Black Friday is indeed happening, as it did exactly a year earlier. However, there were stores already selling Christmas decorations before the Halloween display was taken down. My biggest problem with this shift is our culture's increasing importance of one day. There are 364 other days in the year that are also worthy of being celebrated. Not to sound like a Precious Moments angel, but every day is a gift – they are empty playgrounds filled with opportunities for bigger and better things. If we spend the last third of every year just wishing for every day to speed up so we can get to Christmas, we are essentially wishing away a third of our lives. I am not trying to squash the magic of Christmas, but you can only stretch magic so far, and we are reaching that limit.
Opinion: Sigh no more
In defense of leggings obviously a wonderful option to have in your closet. I personally love to wear them when I know I have a long day of classes and homework ahead of me; the cute factor is simply a bonus. Arguments that I’ve heard against leggings are how they are too tight, distracting, or disgustingly see-through. While these are good arguments, I would like to propose that this is not the norm. If you are guilty of wearing see-through
Becca Dugdale
Columnist
Now that we’ve had our first snowfall, we’ve officially entered the wonderful season of leggings, Uggs and North Face jackets. I have noticed that there are a variety of people who are opposed to the “leggings as pants” phenomenon and are quick to pass judgment. In defense of style and comfort, I would like to share my thoughts on the matter. I have come to believe that there are three groups of people who oppose the trend of leggings: girls who cannot muster the courage to work this fashion, guys too intimidated to talk to girls wearing them and the parental generation who do not understand this trend. Leggings are a great option for those lazy days when you don’t want to wear jeans, but don’t want to quite sink to the laziness level of sweatpants. You can also wear them with a cute tunic if you have a hot date at La Rana on Friday! So, the versatile leggings are
leggings, please save them for pajama’s and don’t give leggings a bad name. And guys, I’m not sure why you would oppose leggings in the first place, so I guess I don’t really have an argument for it. I would venture to say they are significantly less distracting than a short skirt. If you are too intimidated to talk to a girl wearing leggings, just go for it. (She’s probably studying for a difficult test though, so be careful!) If you still
think they are ugly, just remember the fads of yours we put up with, such as too-tight skinny jeans. Well, if I haven’t convinced you to buy a pair of leggings or add to your collection, at least please respect our comfort and keep in mind that there are good reasons behind our fashion choices. Girls, make wise choices on your leggings but keep working it. At least they are better than jorts.
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
News
10
November 15, 2012
Seeking to improve student representation Senate changes continued on page 10
“Previously the student representatives to the Board of Regents were all appointed positions,” Hildebrand said. “So automatically the students chosen were the Student Senate president, the SAC president, one representative from co-curricular and the highest member of the Diversity Council.” Although the Senate in place last spring made these decisions, they cannot be put into place until the entire Luther student body is notified. In fact, the constitution itself states that “amendments to the Senate Constitution shall not be voted upon by the Senate until after a Luther community forum has been advertised and held as a means of gathering student body feedback on the proposed amendments.” “We want the Luther community to be informed about what we have done,” Hildebrand said. “It is a very slight change, but in order for us to follow our constitution we have to alert the student community.” The Student Senate could have easily made the change from within their committees, but alerting the entire student body remains important to them. “It is really important that the entire student body is informed about what Student Senate is doing in general because it truly does effect them,” Sophomore Representative Libby Logsden (‘15) said. “Everything we do in Senate is for the entire student body; it is necessary for everyone to know what we are doing so that we can better represent them, which will in turn better their Luther experience.” Open Student Senate meetings are held every Tuesday at 6:30p.m. at the Mott Room in the Dahl Centennial Union. All students are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Margaret Yapp/Chips
Learning about Luther. Senate Advisor Jane Hildenbrand (‘74) and Senate Member Sam Weinberg (‘15) listen to proposals to improve Luther at a Student Senate meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 6.
Local citizens hope to delay nearby Healthy habits encouraged to frac mining in Allamakee County fight MRSA MRSA Infection continued from page 10
Tony Chase/Chips
Music against mining. Paul Lawrence and Andy Juhl perform in support of the Allamakee County Protectors. Fracking continued on page 10
willing to listen to the issues at hand.” Langley, who is writing his senior paper on a similar topic, had no trouble expressing his feelings as well as promoting education. “I personally don’t think that promoting the use of fracking to increase the country’s dependence on oil is a good thing,” Langley said. “I think the easiest way to get educated about these issues is to sit in on town meetings and listen.” These words from Langley echo many voices within
Decorah and Allamakee County. In fact, the Allamakee County Protectors, a group trying to prevent the installation of the mine, has been busy organizing meetings and held an event on Saturday, Nov. 10 at T-Bock’s. The event featured musicians Paul Lawrence and Andy Juhl. T-Bock’s dedicated a portion of the proceeds to the cause. Treasurer for the Protectors Dan Colsch discussed the steps the group is taking to prevent the mine from being installed. “We are in the process of getting a moratorium placed on all frac sand mine operations,” Colsch said. “If the
Student Health Services has been in contact with Student Life, Residence Life, Facilities and Recreation Services to help prevent the infection’s spread. One example of this communication is present in Legends Fitness Center, where many signs have been posted to alert students to take precautions when using the facilities. Legends Fitness Center and Recreational Services Coordinator Vicky Jaeger has encouraged the Legends staff to consistently ensure that the equipment remains safe for student use. “Right now, it’s just an awareness, and more or less an enforcement of keeping proper hygiene and cleanliness,” Legends worker Dustin Hines (‘13) said. “Wiping things down, disinfecting [to prevent MRSA] for whoever uses it next time.” In addition to disinfecting equipment, students are asked to wear shirts with sleeves when exercising in Legends. “Having your sleeves on just offers another point of protection,” Legends worker Libby Kropp (‘14) said. “It gives you those extra couple of inches where your skin isn’t going to be touching the bench. The likelihood of getting the disease decreases dramatically.” To maintain a healthy campus, students who suspect they have MRSA or any other infection should make an appointment with the Luther College Student Health Services, located at the south entrance of Larsen Hall. “It’s everybody’s responsibility,” Anderson said. “Students have to be active participants in this whole process.” moratorium passes it could be over a year before a mine is allowed to operate.” Board of Directors Member Jeff Abbas spoke on where the issue stands now, and where it could stand in the future. “It’s becoming a big deal,” Abbas said. “That’s why we are trying to do what we can to make sure it doesn’t become a bigger deal [for Winneshiek County].” Abbas also summarized his opinions on the mine. “People have been living in Allamakee County for thousands of years while preserving their land,” Abbas said. “I don’t want to be the generation that destroys it.”
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
November 15, 2012
Sports
Norse wrestling shows strong at Luther Open five different times, starting with the “It hurts, it definitely hurts,” Mitchell Luther Open, which we’re very excited said. “We have some good guys who will about. We’re looking forward to seeing a work hard and get to the level those two rowdy sea of blue in the audience.” were at, but it’s going to take every day Among Luther’s of the season success stories from for those guys Saturday was Evan to reach where Obert (‘15), who they need to Peter Jarzyna placed third in the 133 be. So it does hurt, especially Staff Writer bracket. Additionally, Trent Flegel (‘14) this early in the placed fourth in the season.” 197 bracket, Anthony While Mitchell The Luther Open, a day-long meet Terlizzi (‘16) placed addressed the drawing hundreds of participants from 17 third in the Freshman matter from schools, kicked off the wrestling season 165 bracket and Dusty a realistic Saturday, Nov. 10. NCAA Divisions I, II, Jentz (‘16) placed perspective, this -Head Coach Dave Mitchell and III were represented in the meet. second in the Freshmen understanding Head Coach Dave Mitchell expressed 174 bracket. was underscored enthusiasm for the bout, noting the hefty Luther began the by a resilient number of home events Luther will be season with four returning national sense of optimism. hosting this season. qualifiers, but that number has fallen to “I think we’ve been building here the “A typical year might have three home two. Mitchell reflected on the unfortunate past couple years,” Mitchell said. “We’ve events and four would be a high number,” circumstances. been getting better and better. Depth has Mitchell said. “This year we’re at home increased, our numbers have increased, the quality of our wrestlers has improved.” Luther hopes to be one of 14 teams to take home a trophy from the NCAA National Tournament this year, breaking free from a five year stretch of returning empty-handed. A four year run of trophies preceded this drought. “It’s been a bit of a dry-spell since we were in the contingent,” Mitchell said. “But we feel like we have the makings of a team that can be in that mix.” All-American wrestler Flegel shared his coach’s hopeful sentiment. “We have a great group this year with a lot of intensity in the room,” Flegel said. “We are in a great position to achieve.” In a pre-season poll by the National Wrestling Coaches Association of Division III, Luther was ranked ninth. “We’ll move around from there; we might get lower, we might get higher,” Casey DeLima/Chips Mitchell said. “But what matters is at the Gaining some leverage. Angelo San Juan (‘16) fights to establish control of end of the year, can we make a push? I the match. San Juan would go on to finish fifth in the Freshman 125 bracket. think we can.”
Norse grapplers kick-start season, look to reclaim spot on national stage.
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NORSE SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE
“This year we’re at home five different times ... we’re looking forward to seeing a rowdy sea of blue in the audience.”
Tim Cutler (‘13) Major: Chemistry Minor: Math Hometown: Chippewa Falls, Wisc. Sport: Swimming Norse Accomplishments: Three-year letter winner, named Most Valuable Swimmer the past two years, two-time IIAC champion in the 100 breaststroke, was crowned the 2011 league champion and Liberal Arts champion in the 200 breaststroke, holds the second fastest 100 breaststroke time breaststroke time in school history Why I chose to swim at Luther: I chose Luther because of the team atmosphere and the strong science department. Pre-competition ritual: Talk with everyone and stay relaxed Sports role model: Charles Woodson Favorite movie: The Avengers If I could have lunch with anyone it would be: Neal Caffrey from “White Collar” (Matt Bomer). He is the genius that we all dream to be.
Sports
12
November 15, 2012
LCXC train rolls to nationals NATIONAL QUALIFIERS Men: Austin Bauer (‘14) Tyler Broadwell (‘16) Jackson Espeset (‘16) Logan Langley (‘13) Marty Mitchell (‘13) Alex Rigdon (‘13) Matt Rubins (‘13) Women: Jayne Cole (‘14) Annie Klepper (‘13) Lauren Mordini (‘16) Maggie Pierson (‘14) Tricia Serres (‘16) Lauren Stokke (‘13) Christina Storlie (‘13)
Michael Crowe/Chips
Fervent followers. Dozens of Norse runners, slathered with blue and white body paint, rush eagerly to support their fellow teammates. Members of both cross country teams comprised a vibrant fan section at the Central Region Championships on Saturday, Nov. 10 in Northfield, Minn.
Michael Crowe
Editor-in-Chief
Men’s and women’s cross country are headed for the NCAA Division III National Cross Country Championships, to be held in Terre Haute, Ind. on Saturday, Nov. 17. Both teams were selected as at-large bids following a strong showing at the Central Region Championships held at St. Olaf last weekend. Olaf and Central College. The women also
Weekly Standings while this will be the third in a row for the women. Men’s Head Coach Steve Pasche said it was an amazing day for the Norse. possible, but it’s another thing to see it all come to fruition, especially in both teams,” Steve Pasche said. “Magic.”
Mitchell came on strong in the latter half of
“It’s really amazing to see what your training prepares you to do in the championship season,” Mitchell said. “This is the part of the season where you let go of everything holding Michael Crowe/Chips
Beast mode. Marty Mitchell (‘13) digs deep to clinch an impressive
the Norse magic to make something amazing happen.”
She was followed by co-captain Christina
“As is the case at most championship meets, experiencing the strength of Luther support from teammates, friends and family that came
Football IIAC
Storlie said. “It can take a lot to make a cross country runner smile mid-race, but there were a number of smiling racers this weekend.” A throng of Luther fans, alumni, parents and teammates stormed along the course with the competitors, many of them covered in blue
Coe Simpson
“Nobody could touch us,” Steve Pasche said. “Seriously though, the energy that was sent to our harriers on the course, and over the season, was a great part of the success and enjoyment this past Saturday.”
Recent scores:
also excited by the outstanding performance, but said there’s still work to do. As they gear up for nationals this weekend, she said practice is business as usual for those competing. good long run on our favorite Decorah trails and generally focus on feeling good and savoring the momentum we have built over the season,” she said. The men will run at 11 a.m. ET, with the women starting at noon. Results will be available on the NCAA website, ncaa.org.
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Central Dubuque Buena Vista Loras Luther
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Loras Luther Simpson Coe Recent scores:
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IIAC Loras Luther Simpson Coe Recent scores: Upcoming schedule: -
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