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CHIPS LUTHER COLLEGE
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December 6, 2012
Vol. 135, No. 12
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Luther student on the ‘Rhode’ to Oxford
Photo courtesy of Lori Stanley
Learning from locals. Rhodes Scholarship recipient Georgianna “Annie” Whiteley (‘13), Rachel Hodapp (‘13), translator Musa Kamaika and Noonkodin students interview an Eluwai expert about medicinal plants during her second trip to Tanzania to study medical anthropology in the summer of 2011.
Walker Nyenhuis
Staff Writer
Georgianna “Annie” Whiteley (‘13) was named a Rhodes Scholar elect on Saturday, Nov. 17. She is the only student from an Iowa school to receive the honor this year. “She’s an excellent student,” Whiteley’s academic advisor and Professor of Chemistry Carolyn Mottley said. “She works hard to understand what’s going on instead of just enough information to do well on the exam.” For over a century, Rhodes Scholarships have funded post-graduate degrees for select students at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. 32 American Rhodes Scholars are chosen yearly based on academic performance, commitment to others and strength of character.
Selected from a pool of 838 candidates with institutional endorsements in 16 national districts, Whiteley was chosen
and other Ivy League schools,” Whiteley said. “It was incredibly intimidating to be with that group, but at the same time everyone was super nice. It didn’t seem that competitive at the time because you just wanted to learn about everyone.” Whiteley is the eighth student from Luther to receive a Rhodes Scholarship. After she graduates this upcoming spring with a chemistry major and biology minor, she intends to pursue a two-year Master of Philosophy in Medical Anthropology at Oxford. “[Medical anthropology is] how different cultures
approach health care and medicine,” Whiteley said. “We think that bio-medicine is everything, but there are so many other cultures in the world who have different medical systems that can be just as effective,” she said, “We’re so quick as people in bio-medicine to disregard it as their ‘traditional medicine,’ but it’s real to them. It’s something to be valued.” Medical anthropology caught Whiteley’s attention early in her Luther career. She further explored it in Professor of Anthropology Lori Stanley’s (‘80) course Anthropology in East Africa, traveling to northern Tanzania over J-term of her sophomore year. “[We] were looking at culture change among the Maasai people in Tanzania,” Stanley said. “I found her in that Rhodes Scholar
continued on page 10
OWI offenses on the rise Brita Moore
Staff Writer
Campus has seen an increase in drunk driving reports this year. There have been four instances of operating while intoxicated (OWI) to date, including the most severe on Oct. 20, when former student Daniel Mendoza damaged six cars in the Regents parking lot. “We don’t have a category for OWI
On the campus crime statistics list on the Luther website, arrests for liquor law violations are listed as increasing since 2009. There were two arrests in that year, followed by three circumstances of these incidents are not listed. “I think maybe we had one or two all of “Certainly the accident in the Regents parking lot was the most severe in terms of risk to people’s safety. We are very fortunate that the Michael Crowe/Chips
Alcohol violations
as alcohol violations.”
continued on page 10
Dangerous driving. Police arrive outside Baker Village on Nov. 17 after a driver crashed into a light pole. He was arrested, and found to be intoxicated.
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December 6, 2012
Lecturer posits book of Judges uses parody Jayne Cole
Staff Writer
said. “Certain woman were seen as foreign.” Swanson placed emphasis on the historical context of Judges to formulate her argument. “If we detect something parallel, we should pay close attention to the sociopolitical context that it is operating [in] to catch a glimpse into the depths of society,” Swanson said.
Associate Professor of Religion Kristin Swanson gave a religion forum lecture entitled “The Silent Women of Yehud say ‘Can We Talk?’” About 20 people, including many of the religion department faculty, attended the Nov. 27 lecture held in Olin. Swanson’s lecture concluded the fall season for research. Kynes made the important claim that parodies the religion forum series. do not always have to contain humor. Swanson’s lecture proposed the “Using parody, we can take idea that the book of Judges should different angles on stories,” be interpreted differently. Using Swanson said. “There is nothing parallel text from Genesis and Ezra, funny about Judges, but we can Swanson argued that the violent talk.” stories in Judges 19-21 served as a Swanson’s lecture is important series of parodies of other Biblical because it puts into question texts. Swanson’s lecture expanded whether the book of Judges on the ideas of scholar Yairah Amit. should be considered a part of the “An alternative view is possible to Deuteronomic History, which is a bring women from the chapters from series of Biblical books. the margin to the center,” Swanson The book of Judges is one of said during her lecture. Swanson’s research interests. Swanson’s lecture was a “It grew out of teaching Intro to continuation of lecture given a few the Bible,” Swanson said. years earlier. The religion department “The book of Judges contains -Kristin Swanson began hosting forums in 2004 to signs that reveal a polemic,” create a venue for open religious Swanson said. discussion. The women of Yehud have an important role in the “The goal was to provide a venue to facilitate a book of Judges, as they are subjected to many episodes campus wide discussion on the dialogue of faith and of violent attacks. Swanson claims that the purpose of learning, existential and religious themes that concern the attacks was to show the competing views of what the members of Luther College community and the constituted a community and the identity of Israel. role of religion in the contemporary world,” Associate “Some were arguing for a particular identity,” Swanson Professor of Religion Gereon Kopf said.
“If we detect something parallel, we should pay close attention to the sociopolitical context that it is operating [in] to catch a glimpse into the depths of society.”
Student wins big through Sodexo raffle The luck of the draw. Sam Depagter won a $2,500 gift card to IKEA after entering his name in a random raffle drawing sponsored by Sodexo. He was one of four winners chosen from across the nation through Sodexo’s national campaign titled, “For Students, By Students.” Noah Nelsen-Gross/Chips
Jayne Cole/Chips
A new point of view. Kirstin Swanson argues her alternative point of view on the book of Judges. Andy Ruud (‘14), who attended one religion forum previously, felt that it was interesting to hear a challenge to a major interpretation. “It is important to note that there is more than one way to read a text,” Ruud said. Ruud felt that the question and answer session at the end of the lecture put Swanson’s lecture into debate, particularly concerning questions about dating. Trevor Green (‘14), who has also attended other religion forums, felt the lecture was interesting because it connected very well with the context discussed in Religion 101: Intro to the Bible. “We talked about a parallel to Genesis 19,” Green said. “Judges is just a messy Bible story … it brings up questions of why is it in the Bible and what purpose does it have.” Green chose to attend the lecture out of personal interest. “Christianity is my religious identity and I want to The religion forums will continue during the spring semester, beginning with a lecture set for Feb. 28th.
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Holiday season has book shop bustling Bailey Mulholland Staff Writer ‘Tis the season at the Luther College Book Shop, and customers are enjoying special holiday deals and events. The weekend of Christmas at Luther is especially important for the store, providing pre-and-post concert rushes of families and returning alums in search of the perfect gift or token of nostalgia. “Usually Christmas at Luther, Homecoming and graduation are the biggest for the bookstore because a lot of alums come back,” employee Alli Kephart (‘15) said. She explained that often the store will sell promo items and offer student discounts during these times. Promotional events with a festive spin, such as the “Naughty or Nice List,” Ugly Sweater Contest and Christmas in the Union on Dec. 5, attempt to engage the student body while providing the deals. Prior to the Saturday evening Christmas at Luther performance, the bookstore bustled with activity. “I’m here with my in-laws for the concert, and we stopped by to get some Christmas stuff,” Mike Peters, parent of Christmas at Luther performer said. “I can’t say there are a lot of sales for non-students, but it’s good to get Luther stuff and support the school.” Audrey (Pederson) Erdman (‘61), who has had children and grandchildren attend Luther, is a regent emerita and felt similarly.
see it,” Erdman said. “I love getting presents for family, and maybe something to stuff my own stocking.” Among the plethora of gift options were discounted CDs of past Christmas at Luther concerts and selected Luther music ensembles. the Christmas at Luther CDs,” Book Store Coordinator Jo Uhlenhake said. “In the past the music department has handled them all, and I know that typically hundreds are sold.” She believed this year would be no different. Also present in the book shop were various authors, selling and signing their work throughout the day. Cheryl Kirking Kilker from Lake Mills, Wisconsin, parent of a Luther student, had a table to display her awardwinning children’s books “What Can I Give Jesus?” and “Evangeline the Dancing Holstein,” among others. “At a [Luther] cross country gathering [for my son], during Christmas at Luther.’ I can see what they meant,” Kilker said, indicating the festive décor, abundant shoppers and warm, friendly atmosphere. Holiday joy was palpable in buyers, sellers and salespeople alike in the bookstore during concert weekend. “It’s fun to work this weekend because everyone is in a good mood,” Uhlenhake said, emphasizing that Christmas spirit will continue. “We hope students will come throughout the upcoming weeks to see what we have to offer.”
Compiled by: Ingrid Baudler News Editor
US weighing military options if Syria uses WMD The White House and its allies are weighing military options to secure Syria’s chemical and biological weapons, after U.S. intelligence reports show the Syrian regime may be readying those weapons and may be President Barack Obama, in a speech at the National Defense University on Monday, pointedly warned Syrian President Bashar Assad not to use his arsenal. “Today I want to make it absolutely clear to Assad and those under his command: The world is watching,” Obama said. “The use of chemical weapons is and would be totally unacceptable. And if you make the tragic mistake of using these weapons, there will be consequences and you will be held accountable.” ***
to President Barack Obama on Monday, calling for raising the eligibility age for Medicare, lowering cost-of-living hikes for Social Security raising rates for the wealthy. The White House declared the Republicans still weren’t ready to “get serious” and again vowed tax rate increases will be in any measure Obama signs to prevent the government from the cliff’s automatic tax their insistence that Obama is willing to take the nation over the cliff rather than give in to Republicans and extend the tax cuts for upperincome earners. ***
The killing of a U.S. Coast Guardsman whose crew was chasing a vessel suspected of being laden with drugs appears to be the latest example of how smugglers are venturing farther north in a game of catand-mouse along the California coast. struck in the head by the suspect vessel near the Channel Islands, west border.
***
Britain doesn’t have to wait any longer: Prince William’s wife, Kate, is pregnant. St. James’s Palace made the announcement Monday, saying that the morning sickness and is currently in a London hospital. William was at his wife’s side. The news drew congratulations from around the world, with the hashtag “royalbaby” trending globally on Twitter.
*** Bailey Mulholland/Chips
Part of the fun. Cheryl Kirking Kilker signs one of her books in the Luther Book Shop on Dec. 1.
rd o W of the
Week
ephemeral
\ih-fem-er-uhl\ adjective 1. lasting for only a brief time,
A northern Indiana man who had the Mitt Romney-Paul Ryan campaign logo tattooed onto his face “to make politics fun” says it’s time for it to come off. Eric Hartsburg of Michigan City, Ind., says he plans to have the redand-blue “R” removed from its prominent place next to his right eye. and keep it until at least the election was over. Weeks after President Barack Obama defeated the former Massachusetts governor in the Nov. 6 election, Hartsburg says “to me it represents not a losing campaign, but a sore losing campaign.”
http://ap.org
r
Arts & Entertainment
4
December 6, 2012
Interpretations Rebecca Kamm interprets paintings in the medium of art quilts. Peter Jarzyna
Staff Writer
Step into the CFA’s Kristin Wigley-Fleming Gallery and you’ll find yourself at a crossroads: either surrender to the billowy warmth of quilted comfort and take a nap, or take a closer look at Rebecca Kamm’s series of art quilts, on display from now until Jan. 16. The collection, entitled “Interpretations,” consists of a number of unique quilts, translating bold and geometric elements of shape and color from other artists’ paintings to quilted representations. Rebecca Kamm emphasized that her work is not intended to be exact copies, but artistic visualizations based on her own experience with another piece of artwork. “When I look at a painting, I’ll see it a certain way,” Rebecca Kamm said. “I’m interpreting that into fabric using colors, shapes and patterns in a way that presents the painting in the way I see it.” Rebecca Kamm’s quilting history goes back to memories of both of her grandmothers’ work with needle and thread. “It was something that was practiced when I was young and probably even before my time,” Rebecca Kamm said. “I started with some traditional patterns, making baby quilts and quilts for our bed. After a while, I realized that the quilts I was making were just sitting in the closet, not being seen by anyone.” After a period of creating
quilted garments to further publicize her work, Rebecca Kamm eventually turned to the idea of art quilts, which incorporate a very wide variety of techniques. “Some are very sculptural in nature, incorporating not only fabric and thread, but all kinds of found objects,” Rebecca Kamm said. “The sky is the limit, really.” Much of Rebecca Kamm’s inspiration stems from visits to other art exhibits with her husband, Art Gallery Coordinator David Kamm, who expressed excitement for his art students and others who visit the display. “All the works in this show are based on other works of art, so we’re hoping that at least some of our art students will recognize some of the names and some of the images,” David Kamm said. “They get an idea as to how they might be inspired, or use the work of other artists as a catalyst for their own work.” A reception was hosted on Tuesday, Nov. 27. Though attending art student Peter Ecklund (‘15) was at first eager to wrap himself up in the art quilts, he was in fact very aesthetically taken by the unique expressions of Rebecca Kamm’s work. “It’s an interesting take on the form of the art, and executed beautifully,” Ecklund said. “So many little pieces define specific traits of the painting. It’s really cool to see quilted interpretations of a modernist piece of art.” Rebecca Kamm’s art quilts are available for purchase, though she maintained a sense of selffulfilling artistic integrity behind their creation. “I’d be happy to share them with others who wanted to put them on their own walls,” Kamm said. “The reason I made them, however, was because I had it in me to do so.”
Peter Jarzyna/Chips
New takes on a rich tradition. Rebecca and David Kamm pose with her quilts.
Casey Delima/Chips
Wrapped in quilts. Attendees explore Rebecca Kamm’s quilt display.
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
December 6, 2012
Arts & Entertainment
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Casey DeLima/Chips
Shakespeare Performed presents “Twelfth Night” Carrie Juergens
characterization.
“Twelfth Night” is a subtle combination of funny and dark, and the cast from Mark Muggli’s Shakespeare Performed class played this off very well. “‘Twelfth Night’ may be my favorite play of Shakespeare’s,” Professor of English Mark Muggli, said. “It has such a combination of miracle and hints of darkness. It’s so delicate.” “Twelfth Night” is a far cry from Shakespeare’s lighter comedies, with very ominous undertones of madness and cruelty. The play follows the story of a young woman named Viola, who has recently lost her twin brother, Sebastian in a shipwreck. She poses as a man
funnier,” Komatsu said. “Toby is a pretty big jerk, and you can see that in his interaction with Sir Andrew Aguecheek. He sets him up
Staff Writer
which is pretty mean.” Muggli presented an interesting challenge characters were played for one half of the play by one person, and by a different person for the next half. Julia
challenge. “I had read the whole play, but it was hard to remember what my character had already experienced,” Mandsager Carrie Jeurgens/Chips said. “But rehearsals and Seeing double. Julia Mandsanger (‘15) and Dylan Hinton (‘15) play twins. performances helped.” Mandsager had an Mandsager] really do look alike! It brought and to be better versed in Shakespeare’s interesting dynamic, as well, back memories of my Shakespeare class and plays. “My friend, Michael Erhrecke (‘15), because she played Viola, and how much fun it was.” Shakespeare Performed helped Mandsager said ‘It’s impossible not to have immense Dylan Hinton (‘15) played to grow as an actress and a reader. respect for Shakespeare.’ I read plays that I house of Orsino, the Duke of Sebastian. The two look very “The experience was good,” Mandsager wouldn’t have read otherwise, like some of Illyria. She gains the position, alike, which added to the his histories,” Komatsu said. and is soon one of Orsino’s illusion. a great one. It’s awesome to be able to look at “It was interesting, because is falling in love with Orsino, Viola assumes Sebastian is Shakespeare from a performing and literary of the play, the cast ended with a sad song paired with a lighthearted dance, and bowed he is falling in love with the dead, then Antonio starts to call perspective.” Komatsu was glad to have taken the course, to the applause of the audience. Countess Olivia, and Olivia is her by his name, and she starts falling for Viola (disguised as a to hope he’s alive again,” Sunday Service @10:30am . St. Benedict School (402 Rural Ave.) . 563-387-7706 man.) Mandsager said. “The Casey DeLima/Chips scene where they both see is offering rides from Michael Erhecke (‘15) breaks when Sebastian shows each other and she realizes campus to their 10:30 church service. A van up alive and well, and some serious mix- that he’s alive is very dramatic, and hard with the LifeHouse logo ups occur. There’s also a subplot involving to imagine.” leaves from the Union @ several servants tricking one horribly Jennifer Samuelson (‘14) was in 10:00 Sunday mornings. ostracized Malvolio. Muggli’s Shakespeare Performed class last tone,” Muggli said. “It must be funny, but not year, and thoroughly farcical. It’s somewhere between funny and enjoyed the play. a little dark. Getting the wistful boundary is “I really like the space they did it in, The class understands the wistfulness and I really loved their that Muggli desires from them. Tim costumes,” Samuelson Komatsu (‘15) played Sir Toby Belch, and said. “I liked the laid between funny and malicious with his
LUTHER COL
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Featu
December 6, 2012
‘Yeah, sure, you betcha’ Project dedicated to helping children in Afghanistan makes its way to Luther.
(‘14) said. “That’s a lot of what [Karissa’s] sister sees.” The phrase “Yeah, Sure, You Betcha” is familiar to many in the Midwest. The original name of the project was “Minnesota Nice,” but when the donations started coming in from places other than Minnesota, the sisters decided to change the name. It is also the reaction they have received from many people they have asked to participate. Gumpert sees another meaning in the name. “I think it also kind of speaks to, at least, my perception of the armed forces—‘yeah, sure, you betcha, we’re going to do that and be done,’” Gumpert said. Karissa Crouse and Gumpert say that having students participate
Katherine Mohr
Staff Writer
The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is a time when many people think about material items— things they have and are thankful for, things they purchase for low prices on Black Friday, or things they want and request for Christmas. For Karissa Crouse (‘13), however, it’s about the things she can donate, particularly to children in Afghanistan through her sister, Danielle Crouse. Karissa Crouse helped her sister found the program “Yeah, Sure, You Betcha,” dedicated to sending toys, hygiene items and warm clothes to the base in Afghanistan where Danielle Crouse is serving. “[Danielle] started asking us for things to donate because she says these kids [at the base in Afghanistan] are super poor,” Karissa Crouse said. “They have little to nothing – they’re very small-town country families that are coming in to the bigger city into the base.” The “Yeah, Sure, You Betcha” project takes donations of items such as shampoo, toothbrushes and
Courtesy of Danielle Crouse
Smile. Danielle Crouse poses with a child that she has helped through “Yeah, sure, you betcha.” toothpaste, gloves or mittens, jackets, toy cars. In a letter to potential donors, Danielle Crouse called her time on the base an eye-opening experience. “After working with these family members I can truly say that we are fortunate for the lifestyle we have back home,” Danielle Crouse wrote. “The smallest toy that would sit at the
bottom of our kids’ toy boxes would be something the kids here would cherish.” The children Danielle Crouse helps in Afghanistan rarely have clothes warm enough for the chilly days in Afghanistan. “[Danielle] comes into contact with a lot of younger kids and they’re really poor and they’ll have tattered clothing and shoes falling off their
feet,” Karissa Crouse said. “Their weather is so cold—it’s like our fall here.” Many do not realize this need for warmer clothing, so it oftentimes goes unaddressed. “It was a surprise to me that Afghanistan gets really cold and so a lot of the kids don’t have adequate clothing,” “Yeah, Sure, You Betcha” Committee Co-chair Chloe Gumpert
Afghanistan Danielle Crouse assists as well as the giver. “Luther is very focused on not just getting stuck in the Luther bubble,” Gumpert said. “We’re all going to leave this college and I think it’s a really great idea to support those who don’t live in our country.” For students, it’s an easy but meaningful way to get involved. Though the next collection is not until spring semester, Karissa Crouse winter break to give away. Anyone with donations or interest in assisting with the project can contact Karissa Crouse at crouka01@luther.edu or Gumpert at gumpch01@luther.edu.
‘Luther Natural Areas’ photo contes
First place: “Fog over Lindeman pond” Photographer: Haylee Elvendahl (‘13), biology major
Second place: “Upper Io Photographer: Eva Perry (‘13)
LLEGE CHIPS
ures
December 6, 2012
7
Is Luther handicap accessible?
Carrie Juergens
Staff Writer
&
Jessy Machon
Features Editor
Nick Rohde (‘13) has been in a wheelchair for most of his life. Over the years, he has learned to adapt. “I would say that [being in a wheelchair] has forced me to be more creative … I just have to Rohde said. “I have to plan ahead a lot more than others do.” Rohde’s everyday schedule has to accommodate for the extra time required to take a handicap accessible route.
Carrie Juergens/Chips
Raising awareness. Nick Rohde (‘13) has worked with the Student Senate to bring accessibility issues to light.
Rohde gets up at 7:45 to make his 9:15 class in Valders. He has to go around the building, though, because of the steep hill between Valders and Baker Village. In order to make his next three classes, Rohde
“If I could change one thing about campus, it’d be getting between lower and upper campus,” Rohde said. “Farwell is one way to travel to lower campus, but I feel like there should be another method, like an elevator to a path from the Union to Regents.” The path from upper to lower campus is not the only issue, though. Some buildings on campus, like Towers and Larsen, are completely inaccessible to him. Other times, he can’t access a building simply because of a broken handicap accessibility button. “The handicap buttons will be there, but not functional,” Rohde said. “Also, just because something’s lawfully acceptable to be handicap accessible doesn’t mean it’s logically accessible, and Luther could work on understanding that difference.” Even aspects of life in Baker Village are “Within my apartment, everything is wonderfully accessible, but my unit is the farthest up on the hill, thus the furthest away from the street and campus,” Rohde said. “I have to cover the most sidewalk to get to my dorm. It just doesn’t make sense.” Rohde brought up his concerns when he was a member of the Student Senate. He believes that his work on the Student Senate has raised awareness of accessibility issues among both student leaders and the campus at large. “I think that certain bodies are more consciously aware of accessibility, and therefore are taking measures to improve the situation,” Rohde said. Although he wants to raise awareness of
Graphic by Carrie Juergens and Noah Lange
handicap accessibility issues, Rohde makes it clear that awareness is not the same as special treatment.
st: And the winners are...
owa River” , biology major
Third place: “Pollination” Photographer: Meghan Owens (‘15), chemistry major
“Don’t make assumptions,” Rohde said. “Be aware, but don’t treat me any differently, or I will prove you wrong.”
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
Editorial: Great taste, less filling
Prepare for the End
Ethan Groothuis
Managing Editor
I am a rational person. I am not very susceptible to Facebook scams, fake political movements or forwarding e-mails to prevent dead girls from appearing in my room. However, a day is coming upon us that deeply frightens me: December 21, 2012. This is the predicted end of the world by the Mayans, with no details on how our doom will play out. I need to explain that I don’t actually believe in the end of the world. The Mayans were no more special or qualified at predicting the future than
Opinion
the political pundits for the presidential election. I have also seen countless articles commenting on the differences in calendars because of the invention of things like leap days, which would skew the date significantly. There are many people in this world, however, who haven’t read these articles or subscribe to basic reason. For example, in the last week thousands of gullible people reposted a fake Facebook scam that purports to save them from the Facebook privacy settings. These are the people who make me afraid of December 21, not the Mayans. The difference between this date and Y2K is that Y2K was technology related. Some theorists proposed that the date turning 2000 would cause banks to collapse, stocks to plummet and electrical grids to fail. These predictions were based on fact; they could explain to others how it would happen, and it was believable. The 2012 phenomenon is metaphysical. It is unexplained and entirely mysterious. Thousands of people prepared for the end of the world when a pastor
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“discovered” the date of the Flood, and that incident was only in the media for a matter of weeks beforehand. It only takes a couple gullible people to make a superstition a reality. Only a handful need to try to live their lives to the fullest in their “last day of living” to wreak chaos. What if another James Holmes (the Aurora, Colo. theatre shooter) uses a big event to create a mass killing spree in a public place in the peak of the Christmas shopping season? How many crazies will start looting just days before, hoping to live out the apocalypse? Statistically speaking, there will probably not be a big event. I predict small, isolated incidents and drunk driving related accidents. But if even one person dies because a made-up event has been hyped up for many years, it will truly be a shame that people to buy into it. If you believe something metaphysical is going to happen, please stay in your basement on December 21. We don’t want you causing any more trouble than you probably already cause. For those who have the capacity to reason, I will see you on the 22nd.
Dislike-a-Little a lot love – you have to be concerned about how to understand what you are saying to each other online, how to decide if it’s really in character, what emotions are behind it and all that great both in suspense about what may come of it. Worst of all, the Internet’s not private, meaning others probably know about it. Oops. From what I’ve learned, it’s so much more worthwhile to talk about your feelings out loud, without these electronic barriers. Hearing the words come from your mouth, with all the emotion there with them, is much more freeing than seeing
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
December 6, 2012
Brita Moore
Staff Writer
Once again, Christmas at Luther was marked not only by its A-Little. Although the site no longer exists, we couldn’t escape its seductive powers – two students created a Tumblr page so a person who interests you romantically, there’s no better way to attract him or her than by posting about it with no way of knowing who you are and making him or her pull strings to Like-A-Little has provided my friends and me with harmless that I’ve posted on the site multiple times. The vast majority gentlemen who caught their gazes from across the CFL will never seriously be concerned about them but will smile and take the self-esteem boost. Totally harmless, right? There’s always an off-chance, however, that this virtual connection could extend beyond the site’s bounds. Maybe your post was based on real feelings for someone you really wish would notice you. And perhaps that person will make the connection that you wrote it. Now your potential relationship isn’t just between the two of you – it’s in the hands of The Internet and all of its baggage. Not only are you masked by anonymity, you’re masked by the net’s way of reshaping words into things they totally aren’t. And, chances are, your crush will communicate his or her confusion and/or interest with you on the Net as well - perhaps through a Facebook message or email. Your communication even after Christmas at Luther ends. Then your issues would be much more than just whether or not the person requites your
was meant purely for lightheartedness, as tempting as it can be but don’t take it too seriously – you never know what it might lead to. Reality is for the serious stuff, most of the time.
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
Opinion
December 6, 2012
9
Opinion: Alex Clark (‘12)
Lions, rhinos and leopards, oh my! Alex Clark (‘12) is a one-year volunteer in the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission program, serving in Masealama, South Africa. The following are excerpts from Alex’s blog at http://www.alexclarksa. wordpress.com, condensed by Chips Adviser Martin Klammer. After long hours of travel by bus and car, here I am in the northernmost part of South Africa in a town called Masealama, the place I will call home for the next ten months . . . This ancient land is dotted with dry, thorny brush. In terms of wildlife, not many large and dangerous animals live in these parts, except for cattle, a few species of extremely poisonous snakes and spiders and smaller animals such as goats, dogs and cats. A few hours drive to the east is Kruger National Park where people go to see the large ones! Lions, rhinos and leopards, “Oh My!” Alongside these creatures, people have succeeded in making a living around this area for thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of years. Africa is indeed the cradle of humanity. To be honest, these past couple of weeks have not been the easiest for me. Though I have only been in Masealama a short period, fatigue and frustration have come easily to me. I constantly ask for help and direction from others, leaving me feeling ignorant, weak and vulnerable. I can’t even speak the regional language of Sepedi, which places a huge roadblock in the way of my efforts to communicate with most people, though many people here do speak English. Not to mention, I do not know anything of cultural norms such as greetings, child rearing, religious beliefs (both outward
and underlaying) and how to cook and eat food. I’m trying to learn the language and other aspects of culture but that will be an ongoing process. I am not very used to feeling as helpless as I have been here. Despite these feelings of helplessness and loneliness, I have had guidance and grace
from where I stay to compete in an ELCSA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa) Northern Diocese choir
my journey with learning, companionship, newfound friendships and most of all, love. I am extremely thankful to those who have showed warmth, grace and humor with me as I struggle to adjust. Recently I attempted to wash my clothes in the washing machine but ended up spilling water all over my
in front of the lively, singing and dancing
laughed and laughed as I struggled to clean up the water and prevent more from spilling out of the machine. We spent a few minutes to sop up the mess. Although I seemed least. Wow. How can I incorporate that sense of forgiveness into the small moments of my own life? ••• Today I started work at the crèche center, which is like a pre-school and daycare for very young children. It’s such a joy working with kids except for the postbreakfast period when the one to twoyear-olds are completely covered in their porridge. Though I try my best to help feed them, they remain as dirty as ever… which makes cleanup all the more exciting! I think this is the best parent training I’ve ever had. ••• This past Sunday, I traveled to the village of Sekhukhune about three hours
seven, including a mixed double quartet of which I was a part. We had wonderful times
crowd of about one thousand spectators. The festival lasted from eleven in the morning to about nine in the evening. Not only did the audience retain attention the entire time, but every person was respectful and cheered for each and every choir. The people here have much to teach me about fellowship, patience and a genuine caring spirit for others no matter the time of day.
Par for the Norse
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
News December 6, 2012 Audience members get an earful of more than just music at fun. concert, curses fly 10
Photo courtesy of Photo Bureau
Cussing in concert. Miniature Tigers lead singer Charlie Brand gave a performance that shocked some and angered others.
Tony Chase
audience
found
Tigers’ performance while fun.
During the highly anticipated fun. concert on Nov. 17,
just music. Expletives were dropped most often during Miniature
that has created backlash from the local community. According to Coordinator of
members
Staff Writer themselves beset by more than did a little as well, something
Student Activities and the Union Trish Neubauer, this violated their performance contracts. “It’s part of the contract; [the music] should not be degrading or offensive.” Neubauer doesn’t want experiences like this to define the kind of experience Luther’s concerts provide the local community. “Some people, including myself, were disappointed with the language,” said Neubauer. “That’s not the type of artist we want to bring to Luther.” Miniature Tigers’ repeated use of expletives, most notably the “f-word,” caught the ears of many in the crowd and elicited strong reactions from SAC Concerts Co-Chairs Ben Jarvis (‘13) and Katherine Tangen (‘15). “It’s impossible to know if the group is going to swear,” Tangen said. “But it would be nice to know what we are getting before the performance.” Tangen and Jarvis noted that fun had assured them a clean concert, but did not know what to expect from Miniature
Tigers. “When we ask for a clean show, we usually get it,” Jarvis said. Crowd member and a friend of Miniature Tigers, Josh Bacon (‘14) provided a viewpoint that directly contrasted those coming from within SAC. “I think bands should be able to do whatever they want on stage,” Bacon said. “That’s a creative choice they have to make. Miniature Tigers wasn’t trying to insult anyone.” Jarvis said that Miniature Tigers was in error. “They admitted they did not read the contract,” Jarvis said. “They didn’t know they were breaking the rules.” Neubauer said she reminded them to read future contracts. “I told them they should read future contracts,” Neubauer said. “It was a warning for their benefit.” Jarvis reflected on how this will affect future performers. “It prompts us to reiterate that we want a clean show for the audience,” Jarvis said. “We still have the power to remind the artist.”
Alcohol-related crimes costing Luther students Alcohol violations continued on page 1
crash wasn’t worse than it was.” Briana Shekels (‘15) was one of the students whose cars was hit. The damage was severe enough to total the car. “I think we are going to see if any mechanics want to buy my car to sell the parts,” Shekels said. “[My father’s] insurance will not give us enough money to buy a car.” Paige Clark (‘15) is another student whose car was
control in her car. When the car stopped, she did not exit police and had her arrested. The driver was not a Luther student. Another incident occurred on Nov. 17 on College Drive, near Baker Village, when a Wisconsin man was was found by police to be intoxicated. can cost someone up to $15,000 between attorney fees,
“We all need to remember that one fun night is not worth the eternal consequences that drinking and driving can lead to,” Clark said. The other three incidents this fall have not caused damage but are still cause for notice. Harri recalled the details of an instance on Oct. 26.
risk.” Meanwhile, alcohol continues to play a role in other sorts of incidents. Austen Graham (‘13) was arrested for public intoxication and theft when he was caught stealing
a sign on Nov. 11. “We’ve had a number of signs damaged on campus and a number of cars vandalized,” Harri said. “It’s pretty much on the walking route between campus and downtown. The times of day at which it has occurred lead me to believe that it is from people travelling to and from bars. We see evidence after most weekends that there’s been some partying going on.” Alcohol has an impact on one’s ability to recognize risk, which is why it is often connected with other crimes. “We lose the ability to recognize when we are at-risk or in a bad situation,” Harri said. Harri encourages students who do choose to drink to remember that one must be 21 years of age to possess alcohol, and to look out for one another. “The person’s health and safety is more important than being concerned about getting into trouble,” Harri said.
Tanzania travels lead to Oxford Rhodes Scholar continued from page 1
context to be extremely well prepared. She always had a lot to contribute to our discussions and she was always thinking about what she was seeing and experiencing.” Whiteley returned to the rural Tanzanian village of Eluwai for eight weeks over summer 2011 to continue an ongoing research project on the Maasai’s use of medicinal plants. With Stanley as her research advisor and anthropology major Rachel Hodapp (‘13) as her research partner, Whiteley contributed to the research and helped develop laboratory procedures for creating soap using essential oils from medicinal plants. The procedures are now used as textbooks in Eluwai’s Noonkodin Secondary School. “They were always conscious of the fact that they
were doing research in another culture,” Stanley said. “There aren’t that many researchers at any level who are working with Maasai people and trying to try to discover more about their knowledge of medicinal plants and [also] document and preserve that knowledge.” Whiteley’s research experience in Tanzania helped her discover her desire to continue studying medical anthropology and ultimately pursue a career in mediation that will only be strengthened by her experience as a Rhodes Scholar. She is grateful for the opportunity and notes that many do not apply for post-graduate fellowships because they feel that such an achievement is beyond their reach. “Just because you think it’s impossible doesn’t mean that it actually is,” Whiteley said. “You never know until you apply.”
Photo courtesy of Lori Stanley
Soapy solutions. Georgianna “Annie” Whiteley (‘13) prepares to make soap using essential oils from local medicinal plants.
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
Sports Men’s basketball keeps it rolling
December 6, 2012
MATT YAN
STAFF WRITER
Tyler Wedemeier (‘13) is on a roll. In Luther’s home opener on Saturday, Dec. 1, he scored a double-double, putting up 13 points along with 10 rebounds to lead the team to a 72-58 victory against Viterbo University. With this effort, Wedemeier has scored double digits in every game this season. Also contributing with scores in the
11
NORSE SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE
Luther returns a core group of starters members of this group, shooting 65 percent his success to experience and adapting to the team’s style. “Every year you’re a little more comfortable with the system, the role that Matt Yan/Chips
Fake out. Aaron Huber (‘15) keeps a Viterbo defender on his toes during Saturday’s game. so much can happen in there,” Wedemeier predictions, but he is optimistic about Luther’s chances at success this year. will be successful. There’s just so much that
Wedemeier and stressed a need for the team to develop during the year. “One of the things that’s got to improve “Last year we just didn’t quite have that team has the chance to do that. We need to go two deep at every spot.” Along with creating depth and using a team play tough defense. “We are a team that’s going to put as much pressure defensively as possible,” our conference for a lot of years and we want to be a tough, hard-nosed, man to man defensive team. That’s always something we’ll strive for.” Wedemeier has seen many changes in his he leaves a lasting impact. transition to being a respectable team in the region,” Wedemeier said. “I want to region. I want to leave with continuing the
Matt Yan/Chips
Going hard in the paint. After the shot, several Norse swarm to the basket, ready to fetch the rebound. Such teamwork led Luther to their 72-68 victory over Viterbo.
Correction The article about the success of Decorah’s high school football team contained an error regarding their past state titles. The Decorah Vikings have not won four state titles since 2000; instead, they have played in the 3A State Championship game four times since 1997.
Taylor Johnson (‘14) Major: Business management Hometown: La Crosse, Wisc. Sport: Basketball Norse Accomplishments: Second team allconference, IIAC Player of the Week, newcomer award, best offense award. Why I chose to play basketball at Luther: I chose to play basketball at Luther because of Coach Bailey and the atmosphere of being around a group of women who love to do the same thing I do – win. Favorite basketball memory: When we played #1 ranked Buena Vista last year and beat them on our home court. It was the best feeling in the world. Pre-game ritual: Dance – both in the locker room and on the basketball court. If I could have any superpower, it would be: To be able to fly. I like to get from one place to another without waiting and wasting time, so I would just fly everywhere. Celebrity crush: Zac Efron. He is such a cutie. He can sing and dance and play basketball – that’s a bonus!
Sports
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Teams dream of a destination Christmas
December 6, 2012 Weekly Standings Wrestling Coe Luther Wartburg Loras Dubuque Central Buena Vista Simpson
IIAC 2-0 1-0 1-0 0-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1
Overall 3-0 1-0 3-0 1-4 2-1 1-1 0-1 0-3
Recent scores: -Nov. 30 vs. Dubuque W 27-12 Upcoming schedule: -Dec. 6 vs. UW-La Crosse 7:00 a.m. -Dec. 16 @ Gator Duals 8:30 a.m.
Women’s Basketball Simpson Loras Dubuque Luther Coe Buena Vista Central Wartburg
IIAC 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Overall 7-0 5-1 4-1 5-2 4-2 4-3 3-3 2-3
Recent scores: -Nov. 29 vs. North Central (IL) L 77-94 -Dec. 1 vs. Viterbo W 68-62 Upcoming schedule: -Dec. 7 vs. Northwestern (Minn.) 5:30 p.m. -Dec. 15 vs. UW-Eau Claire 2:00 p.m.
Work hard, play hard.
swimmers dive into Puerto Rico. Margaret Yapp
Staff Writer
Soon after finals are over, most Luther students will head home to relax, eat and catch up on sleep – a necessary respite from the stress of fall semester. Not everyone is going home, however. This winter break both the swimming & diving and wrestling teams will travel long distances to train. Wrestling Head Coach Dave Mitchell commented on the benefits of taking such trips. “It is an opportunity to see some teams outside of our region,” Mitchell said. “It is also an opportunity for our wrestlers to see a different part of the country. Because of our wrestling schedule, J-term doesn’t allow our guys to study away.” The wrestling team has been going on winter break training trips since the mid-
Grapplin’ gators.
90s, alternating between New Orleans and Florida for the past couple of years. Kyle Windquist (‘13) is looking forward to this year’s trip to New Orleans. “They’re great trips, and New Orleans is a really historical area,” Windquist said. “It is obviously not at all like Midwest Iowa, and it’s a nice break to be down there. But of course first we have to get the business done.” As Windquist said, the New Orleans trip is not all fun and -Head Coach games. While down South, the team will compete in the Gator Duals – a tournament that Luther has hosted since the early 2000s. “We are still in season,” Windquist said. “So we don’t need to be messing around too much.” From bayou to beach Swimming and Diving Head Coach
Lance Huber is also confident that his team will not be too distracted by the beach during their week in San Juan, Puerto Rico. “Swimmers are staring at a black line all the time,” Huber said. “It is nice to get away from that to do any kind of extreme training. The second we get outside and it’s 88 degrees, it will motivate our team to try new things.” While in Puerto Rico, swimming and diving will have a competition against Hartwick College, a Lance Huber Division III school from New York. Leading up to that competition, the team will train around four hours a day in the pool and on the sand. “We might run on the beach and do an ocean swim,” Huber said. “I find it very beneficial to do training like that.” Like Coach Mitchell, Huber tries to find a balance between training and team bonding while on winter break trips. Swimmer Kelli Golinghorst (‘15) commented on the social benefits that traveling together can have. “We are going to be with each other 24/7 for about seven days,” Golinghorst said. “We are going to see everyone at the finest and the worst, but going through it as a team will bring us that much closer. It is something not a lot of teams get to experience.” Swimming and diving travels for winter break every two years, usually alternating between Hawaii and Florida. This is the first time they have been to Puerto Rico. Both swimming and diving and wrestling have a long break ahead of them – luckily they will all be home in time to celebrate the holidays with family.
“We might run on the beach and do an
Men’s Basketball Dubuque Central Luther Coe Buena Vista Wartburg Loras Simpson
IIAC
Overall
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
6-1 4-2 4-2 3-2 4-3 3-3 2-4 2-4
Recent scores: -Dec. 1 vs. Viterbo W 72-68 -Dec. 4 @ Mount Mercy L 57-66 Upcoming schedule: -Dec. 7 vs. Northwestern (Minn.) 7:30 p.m. -Dec. 15 vs. UW-River Falls 4:00 p.m.
Women’s Swimming & Diving Loras Luther Simpson Coe
IIAC 2-0 0-0 0-1 0-1
Overall 2-1 3-0 0-1 0-3
Recent scores: -Dec. 1-2 @ Rochester Invitational (6 of 11) Upcoming schedule: -Dec. 7-8 @ St. Thomas Invitational -Jan. 5 vs. Loras 1:00 p.m.
Men’s Swimming & Diving Loras Luther Simpson Coe
IIAC 2-0 0-0 0-1 0-1
Overall 2-1 1-2 0-1 0-3
Recent scores: -Dec. 1-2 @ Rochester Invitational (6 of 8) Upcoming schedule: -Dec. 7-8 @ St. Thomas Invitational -Jan. 5 vs. Loras 1:00 p.m.