Chips Issue 24

facebook.com/LutherChips

www.lutherchips.com

LUFDA advances to nationals Sports 12

@LutherChips

A day in the life of Campus Security Features 4

CHIPS LUTHER COLLEGE

Please Recycle

Vol. 134, No. 24

“Let the chips fall where they may.”

May 10, 2012

Students’ inner scholars shine

Since 1884

Warrants yield small amount of marijuana

Dorm, Green House searches result of long-term investigation Ashley Matthys

Walker Nyenhuis/Chips

Inquiring minds. Austen Smith (‘13), Alex Rigdon (‘13) and Donald Lee-Brown (‘13) (right) explain the construction of their linear magnetic reluctance accelerator to Jon Zarling (‘13) (left).

Over 90 students present research at symposium

Megan Creasey

Staff Writer

The third annual Student Research Symposium overtook classrooms with over 90 student presentations throughout the day.

While the majority of the presentations were senior projects, the symposium also featured class projects, Paideia I research, posters from a variety of departments and performances by the jazz band and other small music groups.

Associate Dean and Director of Curriculum Development and College Honors Terry Sparkes explained the purpose of the symposium.

“It’s to celebrate the work, accomplishments and insight of our students,” Sparkes said. “It also gives students

experience presenting in a conference setting.”

The symposium featured presentations that spanned many subject areas, including two keynote addresses by members from Associate Professor of Religion Karla Suomala’s God & Gender class about their fundraising project, One Girl, for the organization Camfed that promotes girls’ education in Africa and by Dallas Wulf (‘12), who discussed his senior research on particle physics.

Wulf enjoyed the challenge of presenting complicated research to a wide audience.

“I try to have a focus and a direction to the talks so everything seems purposeful,” Wulf said.

Beth Tuller (‘12) describes herself as an “avid symposium-goer.”

“I’m struck every year by people’s interests, how involved they are in their research and how genuinely excited they get about learning,” Tuller said.

Research Symposium continued on page 10

News Editor

Four search warrants were served on May 3 in room 137 and room 133 in Olson and room 324 in Larson, as well as at 611 North St., also known as “Green House,” resulting in marijuanarelated charges for eight Luther students.

Residents of 611 North Street Sokol Nasi (‘12), Rick Gauthier (‘12), Raza Janjua (‘12), Carl Sorge (‘12), Ryan Bastian (‘12) and Perran Wetzel (‘13) have been accused of “gathering where controlled substances [were] unlawfully used” according to the police citation. Corbin Gallagher (‘13) stopped at the residence during the search and was issued citations for “possession of a controlled substance (marijuana)” and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Courtney Cody (‘14) was in the vehicle with Gallagher and was also charged with “possession of a controlled substance.”

According to a news release, Decorah Police were assisted in the search by the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Department, Calmar/Ossian Police, Iowa State Patrol, Monona Police, Postville Police, Luther College Security and Winneshiek County Emergency Government.

Police search continued on page 10

Ashley Matthys/Chips

Green House. Located at 611 North Street, this house was searched for illegal substances on Thursday, May 3.

Softball players step up to the plate for coach Coach Tracy Hjelle Brita MooreStaff Writer recovering from Assistant Softball Coach Tracy Hjelle suffered spontaneous coronary artery cardiac malfunction dissectiona rare (SCAD) April 22 outside of the Regents Center.

The softball team was scheduled to play a double header at UW-Stevens Point that day and was preparing to board the bus when the incident took place.

“She basically walked into campus and was at the front doors of the Regents Center,” Head Athletic Trainer Kris Agena said. “She was letting some kids through when one of our assistant coaches saw her fall, and Kelsey Kittleson (‘12) heard her head hit the ground.”

Within three or so minutes, after noticing sports.luther.edu On the mend. Assistant Softball Hjelle’s lack of pulse or breathing, Agena, Coach Tracy Hjelle suffered a Kittleson, and Shari Huber (‘13) had rare cardiac malfunction and is begun CPR and spine stabilization, as team now recovering. members called 911. Kittleson, who is

trained as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), also assisted with setting up the from the lobby of the Regents Center.

“It would have been more problematic if we had not had the AED, because undoubtedly it saved her life,” Agena said.

“I’m not sure how successful things would have been if we’d only been able to do CPR.” Although Hjelle did not reach the point of a complete heart attack or cardiac arrest, her heart had stopped functioning properly muscles were quivering rather than working normally.

The AED shocked her heart back into normal rhythm before she was taken to Winneshiek Medical Center, then airlifted Tracy Hjelle

sports.luther.edu

Coaches’ corner. Hjelle, Head Coach Renee Hartl and Assistant Coach Teri Olson look on as continued on page 10 Mallory Broderick (‘12) plans her next move.

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

News

2

Book Shop to list competing companies’ prices on website Lauren Maze

Staff Writer

In order to become more competitive with other textbook companies, such as Amazon and Half.com, the Luther Book Shop is implementing a new software program over the summer.

The program allows students to compare Luther’s textbook prices with other companies and pick the vendor that best suits their needs.

“We’re really excited about [the software] because it gives us an opportunity to let students know we’re competitive for many texts,” Book Store Coordinator JoAnn Uhlenhake said. “We’re in this for the students; we’re doing everything we can for the students to save a couple of dollars.”

When students go to the Book Shop website and look at the textbooks they want to purchase, the prices of competing companies will be shown alongside Luther’s price. This way, students can compare prices side-by-side and opt for the company that works best for them.

“We hope to debunk the myth that the Book Shop prices on textbooks are always higher,” Director of the Book Shop Deanna Casterton said.

“Yes, there will -Deanna be times when we will be higher, but there will also be times when we are lower.”

The ease of the Book Shop website also makes for a convenient shopping experience for students.

“The Book Shop considers

May 10, 2012

Oppenheimer questions religious leaders’ authority John Freude

Staff Writer

Being a journalist focusing in religion, Mark Oppenheimer is not one to shy away from controversial topics.

During his visit to Luther last Wednesday, Oppenheimer gave a presentation entitled “The Pope Doesn’t Speak for Me!: American Religion and the Crisis of Authority.”

Oppenheimer’s experience within the journalistic realm of religion has seen him cover topics from the Nigerian Pentecostal witch hunters to a conservative

Lauren Maze/Chips

Keeping up with the competition. Michelle Strafelda (‘14) shopping at the Luther Book Shop for textbooks instead of at their online competition. customer service a top priority,” Casterton said. “By continuing to expand the new services to students, we hope this will ensure that each student is getting exactly what they need for classes, saving the student money and making shopping more convenient.”

Although the Book Shop is trying to become more competitive, some students will continue to buy from the cheapest Casterton vendor.

“Given the economy and cost of books, I will attempt to save money any way I can,” Alex Greiner (‘14) said. “If Luther’s prices were lower than the other companies, I would absolutely buy from Luther.”

For other students who

“We hope to debunk the myth that the Book Shop prices on textbooks are always higher.”

always purchase their textbooks from Luther’s Book Shop, the comparable prices will not make a difference.

“I have always and will continue to buy from Luther,” Evan Neubauer (‘13). “I like knowing that what I buy is the right edition for class and that my money goes back to Luther.”

The money the Book Shop makes from textbook sales will go back toward Luther College.

“Any revenue generated in the Book Shop will remain on campus and be used toward general operating expenses,” Casterton said.

The comparison tool will be viewable on the Luther Book Shop website on July 20. Students can begin reserving their textbooks on August 3 and pick them up when they return to school. Rental and buying options will still be available with the new comparison tool.

Author of three books, Oppenheimer contributes to publications including Mother Jones, The Nation and the National Republic. He is also a professor of English at Yale University and directs the Yale Journalism Initiative.

The theme of Oppenheimer’s lecture took his experience in journalism and applied it to his skepticism as a religious scholar mainly through the lens of the Catholic faith.

By addressing the audience with the simple question of “Who really gets to decide religious guidelines?” all of response of “The Pope.”

It was here where Oppenheimer’s skepticism began to take root arguing that if the Pope and his colleagues are actually making the rules that make one a true Catholic, then why are so many Catholics disobeying his doctrines? his argument to focus on the topic of Catholics using contraceptives.

“We know that approximately 92 percent of Catholic women have used a contraceptive before, so why do we always associate Catholics with being anticontraception?” Oppenheimer said.

To answer his own question, Oppenheimer explained representing the church, we as observers lump all Catholics into a group thus skewing a sense of individualism.

In reality, Oppenheimer said, most individuals ignore “It’s not really the law,” Oppenheimer said.

“Through tradition, some individuals in the public sphere got to tell everyone what they should believe.”

Oppenheimer continued on page 10

Launching Luther Leaders awards student groups Ingrid baudler

News Editor

Launching Luther Leaders hosted the second annual Student Leadership and Service Banquet on May 6.

Nominees and members from the top two or three student groups in each award category were invited to attend the banquet held in Peace Dining Room. One nominee in each group was awarded.

The award categories included: Outstanding Student Organization, Outstanding Event or Activity, Outstanding Service Project and Outstanding Student Leader.

Outstanding Student Organization nominees included Chips, The Friends Organization and Believing and Achieving. The Friends Organization won.

The Outstanding Event or Activity nominees were “It Only Takes One” by Beta Theta Omega (BTQ) and the Special Olympics Initiative by SAAC. BTQ was the winner.

The Outstanding Service Project nominees were I-Impact Now’s Irrigation-Based Farming Cooperative in Ethiopia, SHOC’s Clothes4Souls and the Second Grade Mini-Clinic by SAAC. I-Impact Now was the winner.

The Oustanding Student Leader nominees were Kelly Dotseth (‘12), Sydnie Reynolds (‘12) and Jonathan Grieder (‘12). Grieder won.

Michael Crowe/Chips

Recognizing campus leaders. Senior members of the Launching Luther Leaders group pose at the banquet.

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

News

May 10, 2012

Seven-day Forecast

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

The Year in Review News from this year’s issues of chips

72/52

76/53

67/48

70/51 71/53

74/56

76/58

Brain injury survivor shares her story Anthony Chase

3

audiences finishing their sentences, Ruden was

Volunteer Writer accepting and humorous about her difficulties,

admitting to the audience, “The word I am looking Not many speakers this year have combined for is laundry, but I was going to say carrot. Isn’t emotional experiences with professional advice that weird?” quite like Bridgid Ruden. Ruden, who survived a Aphasia has also caused the loss of Ruden’s traumatic brain injury, spoke to audiences in the medical knowledge; she was a nurse for 25 years, morning and evening of Tuesday, May 1. and a pediatric nurse practitioner for 15 years.

In May 2008 in Coralville, Iowa, Ruden was However, because of her injury, which included thrown from her bike while going down a steep four brain surgeries and relearning how to walk hill. Ruden shared her story and and talk, Ruden has learned her advice with the audience. valuable lessons on how Being a mother of three, patients should be treated.

Ruden has had a particularly “Rehabilitation is outstanding tough time. when we work as a team and “[I’m] no longer the mother give patients hope,” Ruden and wife I was,” Ruden said. said.

“I feel bad for not being able to She also offered her opinions be, and I feel despair because of on her experiences with health this.”

-Bridgid Ruden care.

Several times during her “Health care should be presentation, the audience respectful,” Ruden said. assisted Ruden, as she has a tough time with “Don’t ever tell a patient what they can’t do; find words. Apashia, one of the many conditions alternatives that enhance abilities.”

Ruden suffers from, results in difficulty speaking, Ruden hoped her presentation and advice reading, writing and short-term memory loss, as reached audience members in a special way. well as troubles with recognizing people.

“Speaking gives me joy to heal others,” Ruden Although some speakers would be offended by said.

“Rehabilitation is outstanding when we work as a team and give patients hope.”

Feminist writer Valenti connects with students Josh Hoffman

President Obama speaks at Seed Savers President Barack Obama visited Seed Savers Exchange as part of his to visit Decorah. Five hundred tickets were distributed for this private event, 100 of which went to Luther students and staff.

Renovations revive Miller Hall Miller residents were welcomed by a newly renovated hall when they moved in on Aug. 28. Moveable furniture in the dorm rooms, larger of the things students noticed, all products of a busy summer.

New information released on student’s death Since his death on Jan. 1, 2011, the family of Nana Kwasi “Nabby” Baffour-Awuah (‘11) has hired an investigator to take a closer look into the events of that night.

According to an Associated Press article published Aug. 4, 2011, “Family members said they want to know why Baffour-Awuah appears to be running before the 911 call abruptly disconnects, why his cell phone was found broken near a building where he made the call and why say a 14-minute gap between when he got into a taxi for a ride home and when he made the 911 call makes it implausible he was already suffering from hypothermia.”

Solar panel operational, wind turbine coming soon Over summer 2011, Luther College constructed a 3.78 kilowatt solar panel next to Luther’s Environmentally, Fiscally, Socially-responsible Luther is planning to install a larger, 20 kilowatt solar array near Baker Commons in Baker Village, which will provide around 50% of Baker Village’s energy needs.

General Electric is constructing the wind turbine and will deliver the major components during the week of Sept. 12.

The turbine will be fully erected by Sept. 19, weather permitting.

Velkommen til Luther!

Their Majesties King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway will be visiting Luther to participate in the celebration of the college’s sesquicentennial.

“‘The Purity Myth’ is about our

Staff Writer culture’s view of women’s and young

The Luther College Feminists (LC Fems) had the opportunity to speak with renowned feminist author and blogger Jessica Valenti via Skype on Sunday, April 29.

“Valenti is a feminist writer who started feministing.com, a blogspot website where anybody can post questions or ideas about women’s health and women’s issues,” LC Fems member Annie Kuttler (‘12) said. “A lot of what we talk about at our meetings comes from this website.”

In addition to feministing.com, Valenti has written several books on issues facing women today including “Full Frontal Feminism,” “He’s a Stud, She’s a Slut” and “The Purity Myth.”

Kuttler coordinated the Skype session with Valenti through email after hearing that Valenti was speaking at Cornell College that same week.

“I emailed her website not expecting a response, but then Jessica herself responded,” Kuttler said. “We hoped that she could come speak at Luther, however her schedule was full and she offered to Skype with us instead.”

Before the Skype session, some members of LC Fems watched a documentary adaptation of Valenti’s book “The Purity Myth.”

Compiled by:

Ashley Matthys and Ingrid Baudler News Editors

girls’ sexuality and how this has developed into a crazy way of life oriented around notions of purity,” Kuttler said. “Her feminism is about equal opportunity. She is very much about putting issues out on the table and ensuring that things get discussed, whether people agree or not.”

After watching the documentary, members of LC Fems were eager to pick Valenti’s brain about topics ranging from how to break down feminist stereotypes, Valenti’s recent wedding and how women can uphold their feminist beliefs while moving into the workforce.

“At the meeting we asked about how we as women can retain our integrity and feminist ideals as we move out into the work force, an environment not as accommodating or accepting as Luther,” Communication Liaison Gracie Coletta (‘14) said. “We will be moving to different areas, some more conservative than others, and beliefs.”

During the Skype session, members of LC Fems were struck by Valenti’s ability to be both frank and down to earth.

“She strives for people to understand the feminist view point,” Coletta said. “She is not all about big

Bed bugs found in dorm rooms in Dieseth month, eliciting a quick response from Residence Life.

Dieseth on Oct. 5 for other infestations.

Gender-neutral housing proposed Luther is now open to discussing a proposal for gender-neutral housing.

Gender-neutral housing would open up a co-ed space for students to live and allow mixed gender rooms.

Courtesy of Jamaica Plain Gazette

Jessica Valenti

words and academia, and as a result she relates to young people very well.”

LC Fems member Anne Proescholdt (‘12) concurs.

“I was impressed by how forthright Valenti appeared,” Proescholdt said. “She is not afraid to speak her mind and offer her perspective.”

Valenti encouraged members of LC Fems to engage in discussion with others about sexism, racism, classism and other societal issues important to the feminist movement, but also not to waste time arguing with those who refuse to listen.

“You can’t waste your time talking to a brick wall,” Proescholdt said. “You must approach people willing to engage in dialogue.”

Tim Peter to resign Professor of Music Timothy Peter (‘86) announced Monday that he will resign at the end of the spring 2012 semester. He will become Director of Choral Activities and Professor of Music at Stetson University in DeLand, Fl. Norovirus sweeps across campus over J-term While many Luther students, faculty and staff traveled all over the world during J-term, those left on campus experienced a less thrilling and more sickly adventure of their own. This adventure, also knows as norovirus, is one of the most contagious gastrointestinal viruses and infected over 100 Luther students and staff during its January stay.

Landstrom to succeed Highum as VP and Dean Luther College President Richard Torgerson has announced the appointment of Corey Landstrom as Dean of Student Life.

Landstrom will replace Ann Highum, who is retiring after 21 years as Vice President and Dean of Student Life.

The Year in Review compiled from: lutherchips.com

4

Features

May 10, 2012

A day in the life of a Campus Security officer Chips goes into the breach, and Jack Drilling in this minuteby-minute account Hannah Lund

Staff Writer

9:17:

9:20:

9:01 p.m.:

9:33: 9:03:

9:34: shift.

9:35:

9:06:

10:10: 9:43:

9:47:

10:22: 10:31:

9:08: 10:37: 9:09: 9:51: 10:42: 9:52: 9:59:

10:46:

9:12: 10:03:

‘War of the Wings’ gets angry Lisa Diviney

Staff Writer

“It’s a tradition, but this year we put a bit of a twist on it.

-Mandy Wubben (‘09)

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

Features

May 10, 2012

5

Summertime fun in Decorah Charlie Parrish

Staff Writer

and Logan Langley (‘13) play at

Megan Creasey

Staff Writer

What are you doing next year?

You’re the station manager at KWLC. Do you want to continue working in radio?

What are you most looking forward to next year?

What songs have been stuck on repeat on your iPod lately?

PROFILES

SENIOR

Seth Duin

6

Arts & Entertainment

May 10, 2012

Secret in the Wings Courtesy of Thomas Berger

Goodnight Moon. Cady Buche (‘15) engaged in a story being read by Nelson Schreen (‘14) in the recent proudction of “Secret in the Wings.”

Margaret Yapp

Buche, Emily Ebertz, Michael Ehrecke, Tim Komatsu and

Staff Writer Kadie Smith; sophomores Anna Murray, Cydney Roelandt and Nelson Schreen and junior Tyler Hagy.

A group of nine Luther students presented the spring play “The Secret in The Wings,” written by Mary Zimmerman last week in the Center for the Arts, Jewel slightly confusing, hit for all audiences.

“I don’t know if the audience will get it right away,” cast member Tyler Hagy (‘13) said. “The way that Mary Zimmerman wrote it, I think it is supposed to be disorienting. Most of the stories are fairly ugly, and a bit experience where you don’t know what’s going on, and that’s the way its supposed to be.” are broken up in segments as they explore the darker side of fairy tales. The actors had to constantly switch from in a play.

“Then it became about trying to make sure the audience understood what was going on.”

The cast of “The Secret in the Wings”

years Cady

for all of us since we were predominantly in the same range of learning.”

“It just happened to work out the way it did, with so

on their feet. The only real challenge was concentration, because they brought so much energy into each rehearsal.

Sometimes its hard to corral all of that energy and get focused. That being said, I am excited because there is so much young talent in the theatre department right now.”

The talent extended past the stage as well. The entire musical score was created by composition students Sydney Kjerstad (‘13) and Max Lafontant (‘13). and Sydney is the latest,” Larson said. “She brought Max into the process this year, and they did an amazing job.

They not only had to create an original score for many transitional pieces, but also had to set the lyrics that were already written to music.”

There were three big songs in the play, with lyrics already written. Kjerstad set these to music, working with the actors through the entire process. She and Lafontant different story segments along smoothly.

Courtesy of Thomas Berger

Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Nelson Schreen (‘14) descends the stairs with lizard tail in tow.

“The Secret in the Wings” was funny, weird, and a little audience feedback. Luckily, will be around to grace Luther stages for a long time.

the nine cast members

sense that they came to many rehearsals to work with us,” Hagy said. “It is always fun to work with peers in all areas of a production, and as possible.”

Margaret Yapp/Chips

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

Arts & Entertainment

May 10, 2012

7

Student DJs mix it up Jayne Cole

Staff Writer

“I always cut the music for the performances,” Hussey said.

“The DJ at Roscoe’s was impressed with the way I did it and asked me if I would want to try it out.” in his own equipment and create a business. old business. “I made ads, bought equipment, called a bunch of schools and made a website.” performed at weddings, proms and high school dances around the area while continuing to DJ at Roscoes’s on the weekends.

I thought ‘I did this myself, this is pretty cool.’”

Hussey’s musical style is catered to his audience and type of “Each DJ has their own style,” Hussey explained. “I play more hip hop and pop, but try to mix it up with what I call ‘old fun’ songs.”

Courtesy of Patrick Hussey

Let the beat drop. Rahul Patle (‘13), one of the many DJ’s hard at work at the 2011 Towers Rave.

Hussey hopes to continue his DJ business while he continues his studies in medicine next year.

said.

Hussy’s work inspired another Luther student to try his hand at being a DJ this year.

“Pat knew I liked spinning the beats and it was an offer I Known as DJ Paulie E, Esker has learned a lot of his DJ skills on the job.

“I’m a quick learner,” Esker said. “I am still new, but came in with a passion for music and I really like working with people.”

Esker says his music selection depends completely on the audience.

“I try to facilitate as much dancing as I can,” Esker said. “I like

Esker is still undecided as to whether he will continue on the same path as Hussey, but he hopes to keep gaining experience at

“spice.”

“People are a DJ’s best friend; they will tell you if it is good or bad,” Smith said.

too.”

Saheka Smith (‘13), known as DJ Beat Wrecka, has also turned

“Without music, I just don’t know,” Smith said. “It doesn’t feel like a job.”

Smith wouldn’t be opposed to continuing DJing after college.

“People come up and say thanks. It’s fun to bring happiness

“My friends would always say ‘that was good, you were wrecking those beats,’” Smith said.

at Club Pyramid. Smith has also played a large role in opening Roscoe’s on Wednesdays and continues to DJ there on the weekends.

Smith draws from his personal musical interests while he DJs, which includes hip hop and some mainstream with a little added

thinks that being a DJ is a fun pasttime.

“I play songs people know and can sing along to,” Carr said.

In addition to working at Roscoe’s, Carr also plans to DJ at a few graduation parties this spring.

Carr agrees that the best part of being a DJ is all about the people.

“It think its cool playing music and making people happy,” Carr said.

KWLC Review: “The Great Impression” Kelsey Simpkins

I listened to the album, I didn’t realize I had

KWLC Librarian listened to the whole thing until I saw an hour

Released a year ago in the U.K., Sparkadia’s lastest release, “The Greatest Impression,” has now hit American shores.

Hailing from Australia, the band began in of Alexander Burnett after the group split up produced by Mark Tieku (Florence + the Machine) in London with Burnett playing multiple instruments on the recording.

The album beings with Burnett’s elegant percussion, recalling an optimistic memory of someone who made “the greatest impression on me.” Yet this short opening track foreshadows

“Mary” will capture you in a rock anthem Burnett’s torn emotions and making one wonder what kind of woman this Mary could be to inspire such a lengthy and intense album.

The drama doesn’t fade as the album continues and Burnett explains, “I started something I Piano sounds similar to Keane begin “Fade From View,” a track that brings back the optimism of memory’s ability to keep people

and in the next track, “Fingerprints,” Burnett laments that “your memory lingers long after a woman.

After listening to it all the way through again, but holds its own style and dynamic. Burnett’s

sound that reminds me somewhat of Empire of the Sun.

but that these songs are for others to listen and learn from. He put a lot of hard work into the instrumentals, melodies and harmonies on this album, but the lyrics are something else.

I think “The Great Impression” is worth a full length listen for us Americans as this Aussie has really made one on me.

Courtesy of Goodishmusic.com

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

Spring 2012 Staff Editor-in-Chief................Melissa Erickson Managing Editor.............................Michael Crowe News Editors........................Ingrid Baudler Ashley Matthys Features Editor......................Jessy Machon A&E Editor.......................Ethan Groothuis Sports Editor......................Gunnar Halseth Staff Writers........................Brandon Boles Jayne Cole Megan Creasey Lisa Diviney John Freude Josh Hoffmann Sarah King Hannah Lund Lauren Maze Brita Moore Charlie Parrish Margaret Yapp Head Copy Editor...................Benj Cramer Copy Editors......................Martha Crippen Kirsten Hash Ad Representative.................Charlie Bruer Ad Accountant......................Jack McLeod Photography Coordinator.....Walker Nyenhuis Web Manager..........................Chelsea Hall Design Technician...................Noah Lange Illustrator..........................Michael Johnson Advisor.....................................David Faldet

May 10, 2012

Editorial: Melissa Erickson (‘12)

My Final Word

As the pages of my final issue of Chips come to a close, I find myself trying to resist the feeling that I should have tried harder.

As much as I may have accomplished during my undergrad years, I know there will always be more I could have done.

What I’m finally starting to realize, though, is that that’s okay.

One of my favorite things about Luther is the diverse combination of interests you find in its students. There are students double majoring in athletic training and music, religion and physical education. You meet a political science major who is in the spring opera, and a music composition major working as a Chips head copy editor.

Not only are we allowed to have multiple interests in and out of the classroom, but we’re encouraged to pursue them all.

The danger there, and one that I’m susceptible to, is that sometimes classes become lost in the midst of all these opportunities.

Occasionally I find myself wishing I hadn’t been involved in extra curricular activities, or at least not as many. Call this nerdy – I hope it is – but sometimes my favorite nights are the ones with no meetings, practices or lectures to attend when I spend hours straight on homework.

Sometimes it’s refreshing to be only a student.

Any time I think this though, I remember how I’ve learned the sound of crunching gravel on a back country road outside Bluffton by running on the cross country team, and how to

conduct interviews, write, edit, layout and design articles for publication in under 24 hours.

These lessons are worth all the GPA points they cost, and then some.

One thing I do wish I would have done during college, though, is ask for more help. Some of the best conversations I’ve had with professors came when I visited their office hours with questions from class. I wish I would have, more often, responded to their willingness to talk over ideas for a project before starting. Instead I far too often began working when there was just enough time to complete the assignment before it was due, and tortured myself thinking of all the ways I could have been better prepared.

Is it important to make sure you’re turning in your best work for each assignment? Yes. But what I’ve come to realize over the past four years is that your best looks different at some times than it does at others.

After all, isn’t learning from your shortcomings part of being well-rounded?

Sometimes you have to set priorities and one assignment takes precedence over another. Sometimes you have to ask for that extension or take the late penalty.

All times, you have to realize you’re doing the best you can (and make sure you are). Sometimes that looks different than it does at other times.

Sometimes you just have to let the chips fall where they may.

Our Take: Staff Editorial

Question the Answers

As a group of budding journalists, members of the Chips staff are excited to have been treated to two lectures on campus from world-renowned humanitarian and New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof, and this past week, Mark Oppenheimer, writer for The New York Times, Mother Jones, The Nation and The New Republic.

Oppenheimer, who is known for his writing on religion and politics, tackled journalistic ethics in his May 3 lecture. One dilemma he often encounters in writing about religion is the tendency to make ambiguous references about the beliefs of institutions—i.e., “The Catholic Church doesn’t believe in birth control”—when in reality only people, not institutions, can hold beliefs. In fact, Oppenheimer himself stated that “we know that approximately 92% of Catholic

women have used a contraceptive before.”

Writing about religion also poses an ethical dilemma for journalists in that reporters are often afraid to prod further when a person states that he or she ascribes to a particular belief or takes part in a certain behavior because it’s part of his/ her religion. Fault in this instance does not fall on journalists alone – perhaps reporters realize that the answer they’re likely to receive will be along the lines of “because that’s what the Bible/ Koran/Torah, etc. says I should do/believe,” and nothing more.

While this sort of deep-seated ethical dilemma The New York Times than at Chips, in the Chips questions. No, to our knowledge, we’ve never had an integrity lapse as deep as that caused by Stephen Glass, former reporter for The New

Republic who built his career on false sources and made-up events. Stories about the most recent campus lecture or awareness campaign rarely raise ethical dilemmas, but for articles involving anonymous sources, sensitive events on campus, criminal acts by students and especially in these staff editorials, you can be sure we’ve discussed the implications of what we’re printing.

Beyond journalistic integrity, we can all take a page from Oppenheimer’s book. As evidenced by the great care given to revamping Luther’s honor code, ethical conduct, honesty and integrity are values held dearly by those on Luther’s campus. Digging for the heart of an issue, asking tough questions and refusing to take “just because” as an answer are qualities that journalists – and all students – should strive to uphold.

Bittersweet Seniority Danielle Koch (‘12) Important and Urgent Commencement approaches. Soon, I’ll zip up my black robe, march to my seat to “Pomp and Circumstance,” shake a few hands, shift the blue and white tassel from left to right, and embrace my family after the dragged-out ceremony. Tears will run down my face during all three hours of it.

Phew, still more to do to get there. My brain heaves from exhaustion. 10 hours on the weekends have become allotted to sleep just to keep myself going the rest of the week. I can’t do college anymore.

Luther is sneaky. It piles the work on us slowly. At the beginning of each semester, I’m stuck in the honeymoon stage, reveling in the fact that my classes are so cool, and that I’m going to learn so much.

Six weeks in, I have made a habit of downing six cups of coffee a day just to make it through three papers and two tests that week. Of course there was no way to get ahead; other papers and tests were due before this.

A constant stream of urgent tasks forms an endless circle of crap to do.

By spring break, everyone on campus – faculty included – have turned

robotically in order to make every deadline. As one of my professors explained, “we turn the urgent into the important.” Why did living in the cycle of stress become important? Or do we force ourselves into this nauseating cycle to reach the goal at the end? Our diplomas are in sight.

Associated Collegiate Press But the work wasn’t always important. It had to be done. It was urgent, National Online Pacemaker Award 2011 not important. lutherchips.com What was important for you these last four years?

The important things often came from the late night conversations that

my friends and I had that stretched on into 3 and 4 a.m. God, the universe, the economy, fairness, law were discussed. Sleep was optional. We were doing something important instead. We were on the verge of discovery, touching something ingrained into the fabric of existence.

These past four years, we carved pathways for discovery in and out of class. True discoveries are found for their own sakes. Money, fame That’s what makes discussion so valuable. We talk. Together, we link ideas together and dive deeper into the nature of reality. The best ideas come from attempting to imagine the other complexly. Without sticking on an easy “objective” answer, a solution is gained from the inside.

That’s what Luther has done for me. It taught me that in imagining most creative solution, by thinking and discussing it with people.

After Luther, the urgent tasks overshadow these aspirations.

The danger of living in the cycle of urgency is that the things that are fast approaching will always stop you from doing the things you determine important. Papers, expectations of jobs and weekends solely devoted to getting wasted are urgent. If the immediate is all you live for, then your life is determined by whim and the cycle of sameness.

The important and urgent overlap here, in the life of the individual. If this is your life, then it’s urgent and important that you determine exactly what you want out of life and to go for it. Only you can choose your relationships, your occupation and what you spend your money on.

You have come this far and your degree is inevitable, soon to be mailed and on its way your mailbox. So, what’s next for you? What are you going to do with this urgent and important life?

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

Opinion

May 10, 2012

9

Editorial: Michael Crowe (‘13)

Conquer the Useless

Useless is a subjective term. Conquer it, make it your own.

I’ve been saying for months that all I want to do this summer is hang around Decorah and ride bikes, read some books and shoot some movies. And luckily, through what must surely

been granted the opportunity to do just that, as they’re funding my documentary project. (Thanks! Much love, o giver of grant money!)

Admittedly, spending two months shooting movies and bumming around Decorah does sound like a fair amount of slacking off. When I tell people my plans, they usually chuckle and give me a knowing look. And yes, for some, working on this project could be a waste of time. But not all. So, I offer this question: who gets to dictate what is and isn’t useless?

Society would have it that anything without external reward should be seen as a waste of time. That’s common thinking, but it doesn’t have to be the prevailing opinion. Internal reward is hard to quantify, but still worth seeking.

In the Patagonia documentary “180º South: Conquerers

of the Useless” (2010) adventurer Jeff Johnson weaves his way to the tip of South America, following in the footsteps of Yvon Chouinard (founder of Patagonia) and Doug Tompkins (founder of The North Face), who made a similar iconic journey some 30 years prior. Along the way, he takes time to muse on conservation techniques, culminating in an attempt to summit the mountain Cerro Corcovado. He risks his life to climb this mountain. Useless? Not at all. Though climbing the mountain is without external reward – save for fame, but who’s into that? – he climbs it anyway, just because he wanted to.

He just slows down and enjoy a break from traditional ambition, and conquers some useless things. Because really, what does it matter? No one apart from his climbing companions cares if he makes it to the top of Corcovado or not. So what’s the point? Famous climber George Mallory was once asked why he wanted to climb Mount Everest. His response: “Because it’s there.”

“Conquerers of the Useless.” Committing to a journey that carries little reward in the eyes of mainstream society, simply

because you love it. I can’t think of anything more beautiful.

Which brings me to my ever-looming senior project. I’m doing mine on hitchhiking, which I’ll research in August by hitching to the West Coast (don’t kill me, Mom). Yes, it’s been done before.

Honestly, it’s nothing I couldn’t research by reading about.

But, it’s the same as reading about climbing mountains – at some point you just have to try it for yourself. And it does seem pretty useless, and maybe even reckess (seriously, don’t kill me, Mom). I’m won’t be saving money for graduation, and will probably just end up with a whole bunch of ... feelings. Feely feelings, to. The feeliest.

Mallory attempted to climb Everest because it was there, a challenge staring him in the face. My summer plans are motivated by similar reasoning. Granted, Mallory perished in his summit attempt. Hopefully that’s not prophetic of my upcoming adventures.

So, I invite you to join me in taking a step back from the grind, from laboring to pay bills and meet societal expectations.

Go conquer something useless.

by Mark Z. Muggli, Professor of English This summer reading list is preparation for 2012-13, which may be the most performance-intensive Shakespeare year in Luther’s history.

“Much Ado About Nothing” production includes suspense, hijinks and laughter, but is simultaneously one of Shakespeare’s most acute analyses of the tensions between same-gender bonding and crossgender love.

“Macbeth” The Dance program’s fall production will be “A Tragedy Like Macbeth,” an evening dance inspired by the titular character. Many images of Shakespeare’s play come straight out of Monty Python: witches dancing around cauldrons (“Double, double, toil and trouble”), blood, severed heads, forests marching to Dunsinane. But the play’s extreme elements are carefully embedded in a tight, causally-linked plot evocative poetry.

“Twelfth Night” English/Theatre 261 “Shakespeare Performed” will perform this bizarre

gallimaufry of disguises, crossdressing, twins, same-sex infatuation, yellow stockings, foolery and love.

But what is love? We all might be forgiven for asking. Surely not that immediate splash of foolish abandon when two people see each other for

“As You Like It “ In February 2013 the Center Stage Series will present a joint production of the Guthrie Theater and the New York Acting Company. Among its other glories, this play’s original performance included a male actor playing a female character who disguises herself as a man who then pretends to be a woman.

Summer Shakespeare When it comes to Shakespeare, however, “reading” isn’t the only way to “read.” So why not take in some of the many summer performances found all over the Midwest. Two prime venues: 1. The Great River Shakespeare Festival (Winona, Minn.) is offering King Lear – the greatest Shakespeare – and two other plays. The performance space

Par for the Norse

is straightforward, tickets are reasonable and the productions are

2. The American Player’s Theatre (Spring Green, Wis.) has for 25 years offered productions on their highly atmospheric outdoor stage that at their best match those I’ve seen in Stratford (England and Ontario) and London.

Or maybe you will enjoy reading something about Shakespeare. A tiny sampling: Paul Collins; “The Book of William: How Shakespere’s First Folio Conquered the World” (2009) is a journalistic account of the hype surrounding the 228 remaining copies of the original Shakespeare’s works. (A complete Folio could sell for $30 million,

sells for $50.) Eric Rasmussen’s recent “The Shakespeare Thefts: In Search of the First Folios” (2011), evidently covers much of the same territory.

There are more Shakespeare biographies than there are surviving facts about his life, but they’re a good introduction to his works and their context.

Stephen Greenblatt’s “Will in the World: How Shakespeare became Shakespeare” (2005) is a speculative, stylish, vividly Shapiro’s “A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare: 1599” (2006), is also engaging, and is more historically careful than Greenblatt. Bill Bryson’s “Shakespeare: The World as a

Stage” (2007), printed in various formats, doesn’t provide Bryson much opportunity for the kind of humor that makes his other books so memorable.

For something even lighter, consider Stephen Marche’s “How Shakespeare Changed Everything” (2011), which opens with the book’s modest thesis: “William Shakespeare was the lived.” Oh. Whatever you do with Shakespeare this summer, do it for the pleasure. But be forewarned that in the process you’ll also bump into some wisdom.

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

News

10

May 10, 2012

Administrators impressed with student research Research Symposium continued from page 1

Associate Professor of Art Richard Merritt was impressed with the turnout of students.

“It’s competing against Trout Fry, but I’ve talked to a lot of students who said they’re going Fry at all,” Merritt said.

Merritt was also impressed with the academic level of the presentations.

“In many cases our students are presenting, at least topically speaking, graduate-level research projects,” Merritt said. “As a small school doing research at that level, it’s pretty impressive.”

Sparkes sees the opportunity to students are doing.

“There’s a disconnect between

writing a paper and expressing it to a mixed audience,” Sparkes said.

Jill Hughes (‘12) chose an interdisciplinary honors project which incorporates physics, movement, dance and creative writing, partially because she could reach a larger variety of people.

“I thought that focusing on connections was a great way for me to be able to weave all these interdisciplinary interests as well as engage with people from a variety of disciplines,” Hughes said. the symposium aimed to provide: a way for students to connect and communicate across a variety of disciplines and to share in their in-depth research.

Walker Nyenhuis/Chips

The hallowed halls of knowledge. Members of the Luther community browse posters set up in Valders displaying the results of countless hours spent by students on research.

Trainers, players and AED saved Hjelle’s life

Students upset about how search was handled

Tracy Hjelle

investigation.

“There were over 25 cops and they came in here with bullet proof vests, dogs and riot glasses but they didn’t even explain the search warrant,” Janjua said. “It was ridiculous … they said four months of preparation went into this bust.

But there was no [drug] sales operation going on here.” his

continued from page 1

within 45 minutes to St. Mary’s hospital in Rochester.

She also suffered some short-term memory loss from her fall at the initial moment of the SCAD. “The SCAD was like a blood blister within the coronary artery,” Hjelle’s husband John Hjelle (‘87) SCADs are very rare, and the cause and risk

Oppenheimer continued from page 2

pending legal advice, though they shared details about the night in question.

housemates’ statements.

“They didn’t record our interviews or even take notes,” The Decorah Police were unavailable to comment on this claim.

Sorge explained how the investigation is affecting his “We come to Luther so that we can have a better future and this is something everyone in the house cares about,” so it’s harder to get class work done or even contact anyone.”

Residents reported that they expect a court date in late May or early June.

Journalist raises questions about ethical reporting

in women between ages 30 and 50, and Hjelle, who has coached pitching at Luther for 17 years, falls into that group. However, she had no other risk factors for Oppenheimer continued from page 2 heart problems like this.

Oppenheimer then turned his attention to placing partial “Most commonly heart attacks are associated with men who have high cholesterol,” John Hjelle said. blame of lumping religious groups into these stereotypes on “Tracy’s pipes were clean.” the practices of most journalistic media.

Her recovery has been smooth, requiring no invasive procedures, and the SCAD has been healing naturally.

“You’d never know that she basically had a heart attack,” John Hjelle said. “I attribute her swift recovery to the attention and response from her team at Luther.”

Tracy Hjelle, while taking several medications at the moment and restricted from intense physical activity, has returned to practice and coached in the IIAC tournament May 3-5, from which the Norse were eliminated Saturday morning.

John Hjelle recommends to all who would like to contribute to the cause to donate to the Luther Development Fund for another AED on campus. “[AED’s] are expensive devices, but they’re there Walker Nyenhuis/Chips for a reason, and they will be used,” John Hjelle said.

A journalistic mind. Mark Oppenheimer spoke “It’s a small investment for saving someone’s life.” with students in an open forum on May 2.

What he is referring to is the complex nature of religion and the difficulty some reporters have when it comes to explaining what certain individuals in a particular religion believe.

To solve this issue reporters turn to particular organizations that he admits are more than happy to e-mail them a prefabricated quote about the stance that church has on some political issue.

“If I want to know something about the Catholic Church I call the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and they get me a quote for my article by the end of the day,” Oppenheimer said.

It is through this practice that has led Oppenheimer to believe that the media is partly responsible for the misrepresentation of religions in the public sphere.

Through an ease of convenience these religions have come to be seen as uniform where in reality they are made up of millions of individuals who engage in different practices and hold unique values.

Heads nodded in agreement throughout Oppenheimer’s lecture especially during his chastisement of the media.

“He is an absolute observer of politics and religion who can talk with clarity and insight without the usual sensationalism and meanspiritedness,” Associate Professor of English Amy Weldon said.

Oppenheimer spent the rest of his day at Luther visiting various classes discussing his new book, “Wisenheimer: A Childhood Subject to Debate,” and his experiences in journalism.

BREAKFAST ALL DAY! M t W th F s Su

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

LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS

Sports

May 10, 2012

11

Luther track hosts Wartburg for duels Brandon Boles

and recorded 72 points on the

A rivalry was renewed on May 3 as Luther College track and

“Wartburg is a good conference team, one of the best in Division III,” Wettach said.

As for the women’s team,

staff Writer day.

For the last decade, Luther and Wartburg have competed in a duel meet during the season.

The latest chapter in the rivalry ended with Wartburg coming out on top over Luther.

The Knights beat the Norse men’s team 120-72 and the women’s team 127-56.

But the duel may be more for giving athletes one last tuneup before competing in the conference championship.

“We love the competition aspect of it, and it is a competitve meet,” Head Coach Jeff Wettach said. “Considering how good they are, we did quite well.”

On the men’s team, Nick Clark 200 meter dashes. The Luther ‘A’ relay team in the 4x100 with one of the fastest times that event has ever recorded. The team consisted of Clark, Cole Hocker (‘15), Henry Jungbauer (‘15) and Mark Hoyer (‘13). these three events, the Norse still placed high in other events

Gunnar halseth

sports editor

pole vault.

Similar to the men’s team, there were strong showings as well. Leah Broderick (‘15) and Christina Storlie (‘13) also meter run.

It was a good showing from the Knights women’s team, and Coach Wettach gave them a sign of respect on their team.

“They are the best team in Division III,” Wettach said of Wartburg’s women’s team.

“They are that good.”

All is not lost for the Norse despite the outcome of the duel against Wartburg. Instead, the teams are now preparing for their biggest event of the year: the IIAC Championships.

“It’s the point of the season where we expect and train for our top performances,” Wettach said. “The school year is winding down, but the track

Courtesy of Adam Frye.

Hitting stride. Christina Storlie (‘13) (right) placed second in the 3000 meter run, seen here during the Norse Relays. season is building up.”

The team has been practicing this weekend in Dubuque, Iowa at the IIAC Championships.

The Norse had a strong showing in last year’s Championships and are looking to break out toward the top of the standings.

“We’ve been pushing our athletes to the next level,” Wettach said. “They have responded well all year for us.”

The IIAC Decathlon will kick off Thursday May 10 with the Championships continuing on Friday and Saturday.

After the Championships, any Norse athletes close to qualifying for the NCAA Division III Championships will compete in a Last Chance The NCAA Division III National Championships are on May 24-26 in Claremont, Calif.

Men’s golf competes at IIAC Championships Sarah King

Opinion: Euro 2012 means entertainment for soccer fans

staff Writer Florida.

A combination of lightning, a downpour and

The Luther men’s golf team hasn’t been letting the rainy weather get them down.

The team competed in the IIAC Men’s Golf Championships April 27-28 in Pella, Iowa and May 4-5 in Iowa City for the chance to continue on to the D-III Championships in

Championships. Aaron Smith (‘12), who has played on the team since the fall of 2008, described how the challenge affected the team. in Pella was very adverse weather conditions, and that made the mental aspect of the game very tough,” Smith said.

Tobi Kohl (‘14) explained that, despite the poor weather, the team returned with an impressive performance the second half of the tournament.

“Our team in the conference tournament,” Kohl said. “We had a great comeback the last day, making up 15 shots.”

Kohl and Smith ended the season respectively, of the top ten individual leaders in the conference.

Smith credited Kohl with a large part of their success at the tournament.

“We had a lot of good individual

Championships,” Smith said.

Smith commented that although the team performed well, they did not quite meet their goal.

“Our team had high aspirations as we have a very talented golf team, but we did not play up to our potential,” Smith said. “No one from Luther will be attending the D-III Championships in Florida.”

Central College, who won the tournament, will continue on to the D-III Championships.

Smith also noted other challenges the team faced throughout the season. getting four good scores to count every round,” Smith said. “We just had days where a few guys played well, but not everyone. It is isn’t playing their best, and unfortunately that happened to us quite a bit.”

The team also had notable strengths playing to their advantage throughout the season, as Kohl noted.

“I would say that our strengths this year was our long game; our driving accuracy improved this year,” Kohl said. “Unfortunately, you win championships with your putter and not with your driver.”

Though the team did not make their goal of playing at nationals this season, the team won’t let that dampen their spirits. Smith feels the team has great potential for future seasons.

“This season has been a lot of fun, and I’ve seen more growth this year than in past years,” Smith said. “We are a relatively young team and experience is very important in pressure situations, so the more young guys we can play and get experience, the better. Luther men’s golf has an exciting future with these guys and all the other players who possess a lot of talent.”

The summer of 2012 holds much for sports fans to look forward to. Of course, there is the matter of the Olympic Games which will grace London and gather the world’s attention around sport.

A likely lesser known competition amongst American sports fans is the European Football Championships (think a Europe-only version of the World Cup) which also takes place every four years, last being hosted jointly be Austria and Switzerland in 2008.

Euro 2012 (as the tournament is commonly known) will be hosted

by Poland and Ukraine with the squads of both home nations competing against Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmak, England, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Ireland, Russia, Spain and Sweden.

Last time, Spain swept the tournament en route to their 2010 World Cup Championship win, with much of the same core squad made up of FC Barcelona and Real Madrid superstars still remaining. Younger talent has since emerged outside of Spain’s two largest clubs, with Chelsea’s Juan Mata and Athletic Bilbao’s Iker Munian likely to make speedy runs at opposing defences.

Based on this year’s club season, Portugal once again seems blessed to have Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo as their captain and talisman. After a career year in La Liga this season, many will be hoping Ronaldo can re-produce his strong form at Euro 2012.

Another of club football’s top performers this year has been Robin van Persie, who has already wrapped up the Barclay’s Premier League Golden Boot award, having banged in 30 goals for Arsenal this season, only the third time the 30 goal mark has been achieved in the PL’s existence.

While many sports fans will London, soccer fans will be treated to Europe’s best talent on display at Euro 2012.

wikipedia.org Euro 2012 will be hosted jointly

by Poland and Ukraine.

12

Sports

LUFDA to compete at D-I National Tournament

Weekly Standings Baseball IIAC 19-5 14-9 13-10 13-10 13-11 12-12 11-13 6-18 5-18

Central Coe Luther Wartburg Buena Vista Simpson Loras Dubuque Cornell

Team defeats reigning champs Carleton in season play

Overall 29-9 23-15 22-17 21-18 21-17 18-22 22-18 18-22 8-31

Recent scores: -May 4 @ Coe W 5-2 -May 5 @ Coe L 5-7, 1-7 Upcoming Schedule: -May 10-12 IIAC Tournament

Carrie Juergens

Volunteer Writer

As the National Tournament in Boulder, Colo. approaches, Luther’s Ultimate Flying Disc Association (LUFDA) grows optimistic and aggressive.

“This is an opportunity to win nationals, and the biggest chance of all the years we’ve had to get first place,” Jon Lang (‘13) said.

The men practice 2.5 hours a day, five days a week, all school year. Some play on summer club teams to keep honing their skills yearround. This shows in their practice routine.

“3, 2, 1!” counts-off captain Ben Kofoed (‘12) during a practice, and the players scramble for an opening.

Within five seconds, one of them has broken free, and the man Kofoed was guarding has gracefully cast the disc into Peter Storvick’s (‘14) hands.

Their speed, agility, and quick reaction time are honed through hours of hard work on the field.

This year, however, unity was difficult to achieve.

“The diversity of experience that people came into the year with [was a challenge],” Kofoed said.

“Lots of them haven’t played higher-level ultimate before.

May 10, 2012

Softball

Courtesy of Ben Kofoed

Going all in. Captain Ben Kofoed (‘12) dives for a pass during a tournament at Carleton.

I think trying to figure out a system where the most effective players raise up the newer ones was the biggest challenge.”

Many of the players commented that there’s a core group of seniors that helped lead, and had been to Nationals a few other times.

“They’re a great bunch of guys,” Gus Kramer (‘15) said.

This is evident on the practice field, as co-captains Eric Johnson (‘12) and Kofoed gently critique players.

The team has also taken on a coach this year – Reid Wilson, Hall Director of Ylvisaker. Coaches are a rare and prized entity in a club sport.

“It’s been nice having him… it helps balance out personalities,” Kofoed said.

“It’s great to have a set of eyes that’s off the field at all times to recognize simple mistakes and changes we could make.”

Even with a newly established coach, it was a hard climb for LUFDA to where they are now.

“The regional tournament is the second biggest tournament on anyone’s schedules,” said Johnson.

“We went ranked 5th and made it to finals. We’re looking forward to Nationals.

We’ve been training hard.”

“It was the first time I’d ever played Carleton,” Lang said. “They’re notorious for being very good, and very skilled. This was the first time that Luther ever beat Carleton, and they won Nationals last year.”

“Everyone at Carleton plays Frisbee,” Johnson said.

Courtesy of Ben Kofoed

Line-up. Through hard work and consistent performances LUFDA has earned a spot in this year’s national competition held in Boulder, Colorado.

“They give all the freshmen Frisbees in the packet they get at orientation. Some people get scholarships to play Ultimate at Carleton.”

The men rejoice in their recent victory, and prepare for Nationals with confidence.

“We work on the basics and fundamentals,” Colin Berry (‘15) said. “Those work against every team.”

The players say that everyone contributes to the team’s success.

“There’s no one who’s out of shape on our team.

Everyone keeps up. Guys on our team put in serious work.

Our sport is comparable with varsity sports,” Johnson said.

The Boulder area has different terrain and conditions than LUFDA and other North Central teams are used to.

“The fields are pristine,” Kofoed said. “There are mountains in the background, and the altitude changes how the disc flies – it goes way further, so it’s fun to throw, but also harder to catch.”

Soon, individuals on the team will experience an even greater reward for their efforts. Many have been nominated for AllAmerican and All-Region awards, and the results will come out soon. LUFDA has more nominations for the All-Regional team than any other team in the nation.

“We’ll have open spots next year, so people should consider trying out for a team that has been and will be very successful in the future,” Kofoed said.

IIAC 15-1 12-4 10-6 9-7 7-9 7-9 6-10 6-10 0-16

Luther Central Simpson Coe Loras Buena Vista Cornell Dubuque Wartburg

Overall 36-6 35-8 29-15 34-11 20-18 17-17 20-18 18-22 6-34

Recent scores: -May 4 vs. Simpson W 7-0 -May 5 vs. Central L 0-3 Upcoming Schedule: -May 16-21 NCAA D-III Championship

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

IIAC 8-0 7-1 5-3 5-3 4-4 4-4 2-6 1-7 0-8

Overall 22-7 22-7 15-7 15-11 14-11 11-12 5-11 3-15 4-15

Recent scores: -Apr. 29 @ Gustavus L 1-8 -May 4-5 IIAC Team Championships 2nd Place

Women’s Tennis Coe Luther Wartburg Cornell Simpson Central Buena Vista Dubque Loras Recent scores: Wartburg W 5-0 Coe L 1-5

IIAC 8-0 7-1 5-3 6-2 3-5 4-4 2-6 1-7 0-8

Overall 19-3 17-11 12-9 13-6 10-8 8-13 5-8 5-16 1-13