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Center Stage: On Fire
Peace Scholars back from Norway
A&E 6-7
CHIPS
Features 5
LUTHER COLLEGE
“Let the chips fall where they may.”
Vol. 135, No. 1
Please Recycle
September 12, 2013
Since 1884
Tiede looks to future, sets goals for today
Maddy Kofoed/Chips
Home cookin’. Solveig Entwistle (‘14) enjoys living off-campus and cooking her own meals.
Students face housing challenges Maddy Kofoed
Living off-campus has become a dream of sorts
Volunteer Writer for Luther seniors. Private bathrooms, a kitchen
Nils Johnson (‘14) was ready to begin his senior year at Luther living offcampus for the first time, in a run-down but beloved two-story house just off of campus. That excitement turned to disgust when he and his housemates found black mold in their basement while cleaning their house this July. “We had not been getting a lot of response from the landlord with other issues with the house,” Johnson said. “There were a lot of leaky faucets and holes in the walls when we moved in.” Although the landlord is obligated to repair the damage and even offered to clean up the mold, the would-be housemates decided to move out, due to failures on the landlord’s part to fix problems along with the health risks of mold.
and maybe even a dog seem like a welcome change after three years of residence halls. A good amount of juniors sign leases with landlords every fall. However, off-campus living may be more complicated and even dangerous than it initially appears. “I can’t emphasize enough not to sign leases [too soon],” Residence Life Housing Coordinator Renee Bay said. Students signing leases have no guarantee that they will earn off-campus approval for the following year, as it is required to live on campus all four years. Off-campus approval is based solely on credits and is decided by the shortage of onOff-campus housing continued on page 10
Marijuana, paraphernalia found in College Apartments Brita Moore &
Casey DeLima
assistant living in Apartments contacted security
News Editor and the officer called police around 3 a.m. News Editor
The Decorah Police Department reportedly found marijuana and drug paraphernalia at College Apartments on Sept. 8. Three Luther students and one former student were arrested after the search. Joren Skov (‘14), Andy Mackinnon (‘14), Nelson Schreen (‘14) and former student Matt Dickinson were charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance. According to police reports, a resident
Dickinson initially opened the door and the officer claimed he smelled marijuana. Dickinson and Mackinnon allegedly admitted to using it. Officers then entered the apartment and, according to the reports, found various marijuana-related paraphernalia, including a water bong, a plastic bag with stems and a metal grinder. They then made the arrests. “There really isn’t much to say besides that Andy, Joren and I never want to cause anyone harm or inconvenience, and are all deeply Arrests
continued on page 10
Courtesy of Linda Skoda
All smiles. David Tiede is leading Luther into its next era.
Abby Carpenter
Staff Writer
Luther College Interim President Dr. David Tiede is a seasoned college administrator, with experience as both a president and interim president, and is enjoying his time at Luther while also sharing in the excitement in the search for the tenth president. Tiede comes from a background of various college administration positions. After serving as President of Luther Seminary for 18 years, he went on to hold the Bernhard M. Christensen Chair in Religion and Vocation at Augsburg College and later became the Interim President of Wartburg Seminary. Last winter Tiede received a call from Luther and heard about the disruption in the presidential search. Upon asking if there was some way he could help, thinking he might be a consultant to the search, Tiede was asked to be a candidate for the presidency. “I thought it would be a good fit,” Tiede said. “I’ve been a big fan of Luther College for a long time, this is a wonderful place, so I was up for the chance
to come here and help Luther lean into its tenth presidency.” In his State of the College Address, Tiede elaborated on what he admired most about Luther. He commended the level of care, education, global interaction and especially the community of learning and faith, congratulating Luther for standing out among elite private colleges to receive the Lilly Endowment for the Theological Exploration of Vocation. Of course, there is no avoiding the beautiful scenery of Decorah. Tiede and his wife Muffy moved into the Torgersons’ old house in July and have been enjoying the beautiful view of the prairie and surrounding geography. “In my remarks (presidents always make remarks), I noted that Decorah was formed by a meteor and by-passed by the glacier,” Tiede said. “Someone piped up, ‘And blessed by God!’” Tiede is not just here to see the beautiful town of Decorah, though. He arrived with goals to help guide Luther into its tenth presidency. Interim President continued on page 10
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
News
2
September 12, 2013
Big changes on Luther College campus needs a name. Students may submit name ideas online in a contest. A panel of judges will evaluate the entries and narrow it down to three finalists, then students will vote to choose one of those three entries. Tudor said that the prize for the three finalists had not been decided yet, but the grand prize winner will receive a prize: two round-trip airline tickets to anywhere in the continental United States, courtesy of the Coca-Cola Company. Casey DeLima/Chips
Grabbin’
Snacks.
Students
shop around at the new C-store. and students has been mostly positive.” Britta Thompson Staff writer Students have also been noticing an improvement in the quality of the food. “It’s pretty good; I’m impressed,” As the new semester begins, returning James Odegaard (‘15) said. Luther students are taking notice of the many Students have noted that even if differences on campus. The most noticeable the cafeteria is busy and the lines of these changes include the renovations to are long, the food is worth the wait. the Luther cafeteria, adjustments to the meal Another encouragement to eat in the caf is plan structure, the $50 charge for certain that meal transfers may now only be used to visits to Health Services and the online eat in the caf. In previous years they were also ticketing system that the Box Office has available for use in Peace Brunch, Oneota introduced Market and in Marty’s Cyber Café. Now all Cafeteria meal plans include Dining Dollars, which Most obvious among the Dining work in any campus dining location. The Services changes is the new arrangement decision to limit the usage of meal transfers of the lines in the cafeteria. General to the cafeteria was made based on value. “We want to encourage students to go Dining Services Manager Wayne Tudor to the cafeteria, because it’s the most said the structure itself is intended to value for their money,” Tudor said. increase efficiency in the cafeteria. The new espresso café right outside of “It’s designed to increase line flow,” Marty’s is another new addition and still Tudor said. “The feedback from workers
Health Services
In other campus news, Some students have expressed confusion about how the new charges at Health Services work. Interim Director Diane Tacke clarified the situation. “If a student has an appointment with a physician or mid-level provider, there will be a $50 provider fee,” Tacke said. Mid-level providers include nurse practitioners and physician’s assistants. This means that students may still visit Health Services and see a registered nurse about a health issue and not have to pay the provider’s fee, though there may be smaller fees for supplies, test kits or medications. Even if a student does see a physician and needs to pay $50, he or she will not have to pay the fee again for a follow-up visit concerning the same health issue. The main reason for the new provider’s fee is that there are significant costs associated with providing an on-campus, comprehensive medical clinic. It was necessary to introduce the charges, in order to address these costs.
There has been some concern that the new charges might discourage students from visiting Health Services for their ailments, but Tacke doesn’t think it should be an issue. “Students should still plan to visit Health Service because many problems can be managed by nursing staff, and if a student does need to see a provider, our oncampus clinic is the most affordable option.”
Box Office
Finally, the new online ticketing system is now available for use at tickets.luther.edu. To reserve tickets for Center Stage Series performances, SAC shows, Christmas at Luther and other events, students can visit the Ticket Office website and see which tickets are available to buy and when those for coming shows will go on sale. Students may still go to the Box Office to purchase tickets. Box Office Manager Bradley Phillips pointed out a benefit of the new system being online. “Since it’s web-based, we can sell anywhere,” Phillips said. There have been efforts for a long time to make tickets available online, since the old system was becoming outdated, according to Phillips. “We’ve had the same ticketing system for twenty years, and it’s becoming a dinosaur,” Phillips said. “But I think [the new system] is going to serve the campus really well.” Box Office student worker Lydon Smit (‘15) is also excited about the system. “We’re all going to enjoy the new program,” Smit said .
Will Luther be affected by new ranking system? Julia Joseph
Staff writer
American colleges and universities will be put to a new kind of test. President Barack Obama proposed a new school ranking system in July that will hopefully establish which schools give the most bang for students’ bucks. Vice President of Admissions Scot Schaeffer is confident in Luther’s standing in the projection. “We’re in a wait-and-see phase right now,” Schaeffer said. Currently, schools are ranked according to research programs, service and social mobility, which is based on the number of students receiving grants and the schools’ graduation rates. The federal government gives $150 billion dollars for student aid. Along with that amount, states spend $70 billion for aid-based scholarships. President Obama plans to change this system to benefit schools that are producing results and increase federal aid for higher-ranking schools. In the new system, aid will be given based on the rank number and financial need of students rather than how well they do and if they graduate in a certain period of time, according to the New York Times. Julia Joseph/Chips The new system won’t be in place before 2015, but Obama hopes to implement it no later than 2018. Luther is waiting Changes to come? Obama hopes to implement campus ranking system, which could affect Luther. The fact that the new ranking system might affect federal aid to hear what adjustments might need to be made on campus. students who attend and employability of graduates. In the proposed new system, some possible ways “Luther has good graduation rates so the effect on Luther could come into play at Luther as well. Schaeffer did not say that schools will be ranked are based on cost, four- mainly depends on what the criteria of the new system will be if this would be a positive or negative effect, but he noted that standardized financial awards might be part of the new system. year graduation rates, percentage of lower income looking for in schools,” Schaeffer said.. The downside to this new ranking system is the notion that colleges and universities may start to turn down more at-risk students to keep their graduation rates and earnings up. This could hurt the very people that Obama is most trying to help. But Obama’s main goal is to use this system to make schools accountable and give more financial help to the students and universities that are producing results. Once Obama begins to get the new system started, Luther faculty will have a better idea of changes that may need 817 Mechanic St. to be made. As of right now the school Decorah 52101 must wait to see the results of the new plan.
Breakfast all day! M t W th F s Su
“Nothing fancy, just good food”
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
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September 12, 2013
Seven-day Forecast
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News you can use from around the globe
Life outside Luther
Convocation encourages first-years Compiled by:
Anna Jeide
Staff writer
Opening Convocation celebrates the beginning of a new semester at Luther College, welcomes first-year students and recognizes awarded faculty members. This year, Luther welcomed Thrity Umrigar as the keynote speaker for the ceremony on Sept. 5. Umrigar’s novel, “The Space Between Us” was chose as this year’s Paideia summer reading for first-year students. The podium between us. Thrity Umrigar was born in Bombay (Mumbai), India, and came to the Question and Answer session on United States in her early twenties Sept. 4. When asked why she wrote to study journalism at Ohio State the novel, Umrigar said most of University. She then received her inspiration came from her own her doctorate from Kent State experience growing up in an upper University while still working as middle class home in India. a full-time journalist. Currently, “I’m someone who believes that Umrigar works in the English literature, in a way, is an anecdote department at Case Western to all the other cultural forces in our Reserve University in Cleveland, lives,” Umrigar said. She continued where she balances her time to describe her fascination with the between teaching and writing. “daily dance between the mistress “If every life has a theme, mine of the household and the servant… might be exploration of how power No one else was doing it, so I felt corrupts human relationship, the compelled to write the story.” gap between the haves and the However, Assistant Professor in have-nots and the endless struggle Library and Information Studies for happiness that human beings Rebecca Sullivan reminded those engage in,” Umrigar said. who attended Convocation that Her novel “The Space Between Umrigar’s writing isn’t meant to be Us” examines the complex India-centric. relationship between an upper“Dr. Umrigar is not a notable middle class Indian woman and author because she writes novels her peasant housekeeper. This about India,” Sullivan said. “She is relationship at times appears a notable author because she writes familial and friendly but is novels about us.” restricted by differences in social While the novel takes place in status, wealth and tradition. India and explores hierarchies of First-year students also got society that most Luther students the unique opportunity to have a and faculty will not encounter, conversation with Umrigar at a the themes and messages of her
Casey DeLima News Editor
Anna Jeide/Chips
Umrigar speaks at Convocation. novel are applicable to any person, regardless of location. Umrigar encouraged students to see their lives through a global perspective. “No matter how hard your life [is], you are still part of the global elite,” Umrigar said. Umrigar’s novel succeeded in changing the perspective of Sergei Hanka (‘17), as it allowed him to see the world through the eyes of a poor, uneducated servant woman and experience her daily struggle to survive. “[It] reinforce[d] the importance of education,” Hanka said. He also said that it gave him a new appreciation and sense of gratitude for the opportunities he has in life. Ultimately, Umrigar believes that the responsibility of being part of the global elite is to be open to what is out there. “Learn everything you can and then learn some more,” Umrigar said. “Be curious. Be passionate. Be bold...Don’t ever attend class with the goal of getting an A; attend class with the goal of learning all that you can from your professors.”
Sudden Plan: Syria to Dispose of Chemical Weapons? In a rapid and remarkable chain of events, Syria welcomed the idea of turning over all of its chemical weapons for destruction on Monday, and President Barack Obama, though expressing deep skepticism, declared it “potentially a significant breakthrough” that could head off the threats of U.S. air strikes that have set the world on edge. The administration pressed ahead in its efforts to persuade Congress to authorize a military strike, and Obama said the day’s developments were doubtless due in part to the “credible possibility” of that action. He stuck to his plan to address the nation Tuesday night, while the Senate Democratic Leader postponed a vote on authorization.
*** Long-Lost Painting by Van Gogh is Identified A painting that sat for six decades in a Norwegian industrialist’s attic after he was told it was a fake Van Gogh was pronounced the real thing Monday, making it the first full-size canvas by the tortured Dutch artist to be discovered since 1928. Experts at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam authenticated the 1888 landscape “Sunset at Montmajour” with the help of Vincent Van Gogh’s letters, chemical analysis of the pigments and X-rays of the canvas.
*** Armed men Kidnap Archbishop in Nigeria Officials say armed men have kidnapped an archbishop who is the No. 2 cleric in the country’s Catholic Church. The Church of Nigeria said that Archbishop Ignatius Kattey and his wife Beatrice Kattey were kidnapped near their home in the country’s southern city of Port Harcourt on Friday. Rivers state police spokeswoman Angela Agabe said Monday that Kattey’s wife was released hours later. Agabe said the archbishop is being held for unknown reasons but that investigations indicate he could be released soon. She said no ransom has been demanded.
*** Zimmerman’s Wife Won’t Press Charges Despite Call The sobbing wife of George Zimmerman called 911 on Monday to report that her estranged husband was threatening her with a gun and had punched her father in the nose, but hours later she decided not to press charges against the man acquitted of all charges for fatally shooting Trayvon Martin. Police officers in Lake Mary, Fla., were still investigating the encounter as a domestic dispute, but no charges had been filed as of Monday night. Shellie Zimmerman left the house after being questioned by police. George Zimmerman remained there into the early evening and his attorney denied any wrongdoing by his client. George Zimmerman was not arrested.
Anna Jeide/Chips
Welcome back to Luther! Faculty and students alike came out to the Opening Convocation.
Community News Compiled from: http://ap.org/
Features
4
September 12, 2013
A Luther presence. Jayne Pearson (‘15) at a community sing in the Phelps Park bandshell.
Matt Helm/Chips
Sing out loud, sing out strong. Rog has been a song leader for decades. “My drive, my passion in life is to help everybody realize that it’s our birthright to sing. We need to sing,” Rog
Our community sings matt helm
Matt Helm/Chips
A blue-eyed crooner. John Werner (‘15) sings sweetly at a community sing, his eyes glowing.
Staff writer
The Community Singers of Decorah vary in age and background. Some read music, others do not. They meet at the Phelps Park bandshell every Thursday evening around 7 p.m. with a simple goal in mind: to sing together. Many know each other through mutual friends, while others are strangers being welcomed for the first time. More and more Luther students have been attending these meetings, referred to as “sings.” Decorah resident Liz Rog has been leading sings for decades and, at the Decorah community sings, is joined every week by cosong leader Ellen Rockne. “My drive, my passion in life is to help everybody realize that it’s
Matt Helm/Chips
Rockne gets groovy. Ellen Rockne (right) leads Peter Jarzyna (‘15) (far left) and Liz Rog (middle) in song. Remember: just because its a “sing” doesn’t mean you can’t dance!
our birthright to sing,” Rog said. “We need to sing.” At schools like Luther, the stress of back-to-school choir auditions— learning a complicated piece, frenzied searches for a practice room, recalls upon recalls, and sometimes not making the cut— can make it pretty easy to forget what music is really all about. These sings hope to discourage that. “You very quickly get sorted out into the singers and the not singers,” Rog said. “I had never judged myself as a singer before, I just sang because I was alive.” The Community Singers of Decorah have created a place where everybody is welcome, regardless of singing ability. “There is a physiological event that takes place when people start believing that they can’t sing,” Rog said. “They are actually less able to hear the tones that are happening. If singers are in a group, are nurtured and honored with friendship and community, they start singing on pitch.” During the gatherings, the singers stand in a circle while Rog and Rockne teach call-and-response style lyrics and harmonies—but no worries! The songs are short and simple with easy lyrics and melodies. Pieces range from joyous and effervescent, like “Every Morning,” to soft and haunting. If someone forgets the words or hits a bum note or two, no one blinks an eye.
“There’s no dungeon,” Rog said. “We practice kindness, acceptance and joy. No grades, no kicking out. No barriers.” It is clear that some attendees are skilled and practiced musicians, while others simply love to sing. Regardless of skill level, everyone’s voice feels bright, clear and confident in Phelps Park. Several Luther students have recently begun to take part in the community sings. “Community singing creates -Liz Rog such a special place,” Peter Jarzyna (‘15), a regular at community sings, said. “Every time I sing with the group, I walk away feeling floaty and cleansed.” This “special place” sentiment was not unique to Jarzyna. Rather, it is a very intentional aspect of the group. “I treasure and value professional music that is created by music majors and I mourn the people who say they can’t sing,” Rog said. “Right in the middle—I’m trying to grow that place. Both of those groups can come into that middle place, they just need to have an invitation.” Community sings take place Thursdays at 7 p.m. in the Phelps Park bandshell. Make sure to e-mail song leader Liz Rog at liz@decorahnow.com with any questions and to get on the mailing list, and this is important! The Community Singers of Decorah are a flexible group and because of this there are sometimes changes in meeting time and place.
“We practice kindness, acceptace and joy. No grades, no kicking out. No barriers.”
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
September 12, 2013
Features
5
Photo courtesy of Cate Anderson and Maggie Steinberg
The Fabulous Fifteen. The group, in full form, photographed in the Nobel Peace Institute in Oslo, Norway during the Peace Scholar Seminar.
Let’s talk about peace laura hayes staff writer For Cate Anderson (‘14) and Maggie Steinberg (‘15) it was more than a trip to Norway; it was a chance to discuss peace in a debate-free atmosphere. Anderson and Steinberg were chosen to participate in the Peace Scholar Seminar in Norway along with thirteen other students from five other colleges this summer. The seven-week seminar focused on deepening the students’ understanding of war, peace, conflict and teaching the participants conflict resolution through a process called dialogue. The seminar began with a four-day stay in Lillehammer where the students visited the Nansen Center for Peace and Dialogue, the project of Steinar Bryn. A three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee for his work with the Nansen Center, Bryn taught the students how to use dialogue over debate. “Dialogue is the opposite of debate,” Anderson said. “It’s talking without the desire to agree.” While the Peace Scholars were at the Nansen Center they were joined by a series of students from the Balkan region, which includes Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Macedonia and Kosovo. Although the students were from different countries, they were united by a mutual desire for communication and understanding. By removing debate from conversation, the students removed the desire to be correct and were able to successfully listen to one another. “Dialogue removes the walls and allows for conversation,” Steinberg said. The seminar continued in Oslo where the students studied at the International Summer School, University of Oslo. The students continued their Peace Seminar and also had the chance to take additional courses and
Photo courtesy of Cate Anderson and Maggie Steinberg
Say ‘Peace’! Maggie Steinberg (‘15) (left) and Cate Anderson (‘14) (right) pose with fellow Peace Scholar Marit Aaseng (center) of St. Olaf College in Oslo, Norway for the Peace Scholar Seminar. complete a final research project. For her final research President and leader of the Peace Scholar Seminar Karen project, Steinberg chose to focus on gender equality in Martin-Schramm said. Nordic countries, while The program gave Anderson and Anderson focused on Steinberg the chance to both hear the Polish labor migrants. stories of students who have lived in The additional courses countries that have had intervention allowed the students to by the United States, and an explore their subject opportunity to think critically of the of interest and see how United States in an accepting setting. -Maggie Steinberg (‘15) Through these stories and dialogue, it related to peace and conflict resolution. the students saw the need for both Because the program peace and communication. was focused on peace, the students were When asked if she would do it again, Steinberg said exposed to different ways of life and thinking. without hesitation, “In a heartbeat.” “Stepping outside of your comfort zone Application information for the Peace Scholar Seminar and going somewhere else and seeing the can be found at http://peacescholars.wordpress.com/ United States from someone else’s eyes is luther-college/. The program is open to sophomores and transformative,” the Executive Assistant to the juniors.
“Dialogue removes the walls and allows for conversation.”
LUTHER COL
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September 12, 2013
Arts & Ente
Photo courtesy of Pa
A burning thing. The cast of “Ring of Fire” (from left to right): Chad Willow, Chet Wollan, Steve Lasiter, Candice Lively, Amberly Rosen, Tim Drake, Brittany Parker, and Jason Uh
Show review: Breaksk8 Hannah Garry
Staff Writer
Indiana-based dance crew Breaksk8 recently brought their signature mix of hip-hop dancing and roller skating to the Luther campus. Students, faculty and Decorah community members flocked to the Center for Faith and Life on Saturday, Sept. 7 to check out the unique event. Breaksk8 is perhaps best known for competing on season one of MTV’s “America’s Best Dance Crew” in 2008. The hour-long show put on this past weekend consisted of the crew members performing choreographed routines on roller skates interspersed with segments of audience participation. Besides watching Breaksk8, the audience also witnessed the SAC Executive Board participate in a dance off. Breaksk8 is one of eight performers sponsored by SAC Spotlight/Diversity scheduled to visit Luther throughout the year. Spotlight/Diversity Co-chair Emma Hartmann (‘15) saw Breaksk8 perform at
a convention in the Twin Cities last year and thought they would be an interesting act. “We saw them perform and really saw the high energy that they bring,” Hartmann said. “When we talked to them at their booth after the performance we found out that they were on season one of ‘America’s Best Dance Crew’ and we knew that would draw a lot of people ... And it has the diverse aspect that they’re on roller skates.” The show, while certainly unique, came with its low points. The audience may have been dismayed upon realizing that, as happens with many groups, Breaksk8’s makeup has changed since their days of competing on MTV. Only two of the crew members on stage were part of the original six that appeared on America’s Best Dance Crew in 2008. The men pictured in the posters that were thrown at the audience throughout the show bore little resemblance to the five men skating around stage with sunglasses on. The performance at times was lackluster and seemed somewhat
rehearsed. Co-founder and MC Jessy Nice reminded the audience to follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram after declaring Luther was one of “the better school’s he’s been to.” Once, in an attempt to enliven the audience, he yelled out, “Luther University!” These points aside, the performance was fun and interactive with the audience. Watching the SAC Executive Board compete against one another in a dance off inspired the specific mix of awe and fear that is unique to watching one’s peers dance in public, and they pulled it off with style. “‘I look like a fool,’ was basically what I was thinking,” SAC Special Events Cochair Meg Ostrem (‘16) said of her time on stage. “Also, that I can’t dance.” Despite some downfalls no one can deny the skill of the performers. They impressed the crowd with their ability to gracefully glide around the stage and pull off moves that would have been extraordinary enough without roller skates.
Imsouchivy “G.V.” Suos/Photo Bureau
Roll bounce. SAC Spotlight/Diversity brought roller skate-clad dance crew Breaksk8 to campus on Saturday, Sept. 7.
Photo c
Comfort and joy. The 2012 broadcast of Chri
Emmy® nomin Sam Molzahn
Staff Writer
The 2012 performance of “Christmas at Luther: Tidings of Comfort and Joy” received a nomination for an Upper Midwest Emmy® award in the category of “Special Event Coverage.” The broadcast was a collaboration between the Luther College Music Department and Twin Cities Public Television of St. Paul, Minn. “The award is for the Upper Midwest Regional Emmys, which covers our local region of the Emmy boards,” Coordinator for Music Organizations and Marketing Eric Ellingsen (‘99), said. “It’s kind of a sub-set of the National Emmys.” There are six other nominees for the category of “Special Event Coverage,” including “Cinderella Ballet” by Iowa Public Television, MN Opera’s: “Silent Night” by Moving Pictures, Inc. and “Tribute to the Troops” by Pioneer Public Television. “The category is defined as ‘special event coverage that is not news or sports,’” Ellingsen said. “It is not limited to the college or university level.” “Christmas at Luther: Night of Glory, Dawn of Peace” received the Emmy for “Special Event Coverage” in 2008. According to Ellingsen, the national recognition had positive impact on the Music Department and enrollment to the college. “For Luther, they saw a big spike in enrollment
LLEGE CHIPS
ertainment
September 12, 2013
7
And it burns Curt Wollan (‘73) brings Johnny Cash tribute to the Center Stage Series. Dylan Hinton
aul Nixdorf
hlmann.
Staff Writer
A decade may have passed since the death of country artist Johnny Cash, but the first Center Stage Series event of the year is sure to breathe life back into the stories and songs of the musical legend. “Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash” will be held in the Center for Faith and Life on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and is highly anticipated both for its content and its connection to Luther. “For the first event of the year we really look for something that everyone will enjoy, and will be a fun, light way to kick off the season,” Director of Campus Programming Tanya Gertz said. “‘Ring of Fire’ is definitely that … It’s also produced by a Luther graduate who we know does amazing work.” Executive Producer and Director of Troupe of
courtesy of the Luther College Music Department
istmas at Luther is up for an Emmy® award.
nation for 2013
for the next year,” Ellingsen said. “I don’t know if we had as much of a spike for this year because of it. But it does get us nationally recognized.” Director of Choral Activities and Professor of Music Allen Hightower worked as the artistic director for the 2012 performances, acting as the principal facilitator for all decisions regarding the performance. “I’m delighted as the artistic director that people are coming to know Luther College because of the success and the recognition of Christmas at Luther through this nomination,” Hightower said. “I think it’s a lovely honor, and certainly it’s a great kudos for the school.” Hightower noted that recording years provide unique challenges to the preparation of Christmas at Luther. “I think the recording years are a little more stressful and a little less flexible,” Hightower said. “You still want the same artistic standards. I think you’re a little more self-aware during the performances.” The winners of the 2013 Upper Midwest Emmys will be announced on midwestemmys.org on Saturday, Sept. 28. “As music is a kind of a front porch or kind of a calling card for the college, it’s nice to have regional and national recognition for Luther through this vehicle of music,” Hightower said.
American Inc. in Minneapolis, Minn. Curt Wollan (‘73) is the producer and director of “Ring of Fire.” Wollan was involved with a production that came to Luther in April 2011, and is optimistic about the community’s interest in Cash. “The hipsters love him and the old people love him,” Wollan said. “He really crosses all boundaries with his music.” “Ring of Fire” is not a typical musical, nor is it a typical biographical narrative. The show combines both the songs and personal writings of Cash in order to paint a rich picture of the singer’s life. “They always say when you’re a musician or writer or author you should write about what you know, and [Cash] absolutely did that,” Wollan said. “He wrote and covered songs that had to do with his life. He basically told his story through the collection of music he recorded.” The cast of “Ring of Fire” includes eight multitalented performers, all of whom sing, dance and play multiple instruments to create an authentic, live experience. “There is not a single Johnny Cash impersonator,” Gertz said. “The cast tells his story by covering his music in what some would call a jukebox musical.”
The production will explore not only Cash’s life in the limelight and prominent relationship with June Carter Cash, but also the harsher realities of his poor upbringing and his struggles with substance abuse. These hardships were what convinced Wollan that producing “Ring of Fire” would be a success. “His is the classic American story, and I think that’s why people relate to him so well,” Wollan said. “He’s really an Everyman. People go through trials and tribulations and find redemption and that’s exactly what happened to him, and through his story people find hope for themselves.” The production has received enormous success in Minneapolis and already has garnered much interest on campus and in the Decorah community. The show is projected to sell out and students are encouraged to acquire tickets immediately. Tickets may be purchased through the box office or online at tickets.luther.edu by signing in with a Luther e-mail address. Tickets purchased online at least three days in advance will be delivered to SPOs. “Tickets to this show are the best SPO love ever,” Gertz said. “Maybe not as good as chocolate chip cookies, but really close.”
Opinion
8
CHIPS
September 12, 2013
Opinion: Eve was framed
A radical notion
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 Melinda McMahon responsible for opinions expressed in Columnist Chips commentary. Chips will not accept submitted In the midst of upperclassmen returning, firstarticles or campus announcements. years moving in and trying to figure out the new Submissions for letters to the design of the Union (anybody else still trying to editor should be submitted as a word go up the now-nonexistent stairs in Marty’s?), document to chipsedt@luther.edu there was the Activities Fair. with “Letter to the Editor” as the I had the privilege to table with some of my subject line. Letters to the editor are favorite people at the Luther College Feminists subject to editing without changing table. Over all, we did great. We handed out 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.
almost 200 buttons, got I still don’t know how many sign-ups, and had great conversations with people. However, there was one thing still bothering me when I sat down to write this article. Almost every male that came up to our table asked some form of the same question: “If I’m a man, can I be a feminist?” The simple answer is yes. The more complete answer is this: “If I’m a man, can I be a feminist?” “Do you believe men and women are equal and should be treated that way?” “Yeah.” “Congratulations, you’re already a feminist.” One of my favorite things about Luther has always been how openminded the student body is but for some reason, feminism still gets a bad name. I’ve heard all the comments: “Feminists hate men,” “Feminists are ugly,” “Feminists are all lesbians,” or “Feminists think women are better than men.” First off: yes, some feminists hate men, but there are also some men who hate women. To be a feminist does not mean to hate men, just as being a man doesn’t mean you hate women. I’m a daddy’s girl who is better friends with guys and my favorite person ever is my baby brother. Secondly, Anne Hathaway, Beyonce, Olivia Wilde, Patrick Stewart, Dustin Hoffman,
Angelina Jolie, Brad Freaking Pitt. Not ugly. And mostly straight. All Feminists. Moving on now. Thirdly, some feminists may think women are better than men but the definition of feminism is to believe men and women are equal (check Merriam-Webster if you don’t believe me). Two of the strongest feminists I know drive fast cars and big trucks, work in maledominated fields, like their drinks strong, their coffee black, sweat like crazy in the gym and can shoot pretty well. Oh yeah, both of these people are men. Some of you may know who one of these men is (sadly, he’s no longer here), the other is my dad whose response when my 10-year-old self asked, “Daddy, why do people call me a feminist?” was, “Because I raised you to not be a doormat.” The point I’m trying to get at here is that being a woman is not a pre-requisite for being a feminist. Neither is being a man-hater. Some of the strongest feminist voices are male. So all I’m really asking is that you rethink your ideas of feminism. Do you believe in equality of the sexes? Congratulations, you’re a feminist. And there is nothing wrong with that.
Opinion
The US-Syrian controversy
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Fall 2013 Staff
Editor-in-Chief....................Ingrid Baudler Managing Editor......................................Jayne Cole News Editors.......................Casey DeLima Brita Moore Features Editor....................Margaret Yapp A&E Editor......................Walker Nyenhuis Sports Editor..................................Matt Yan Staff Writers.......................Abby Carpenter Hannah Garry Laura Hayes Matt Helm Dylan Hinton Anna Jeide Carrie Juergens Julia Joseph Sam Molzahn Maggie Steinberg Britta Thompson Head Copy Editor.......................Katie Hale Copy Editors............................Nils Johnson Cameron Meyferth Ad Representative...............Becca Dugdale Ad Accountant......................Sam Matheson Photography Director..................Casey DeLima Photographer................................Abby Carpenter Web Manager...........................Noah Lange Design Technician...................Noah Lange Social Media Director.........Eric Anderson Circulation Manager..............Tess Wilson Advisor.....................................David Faldet Associated Collegiate Press National Online Pacemaker Award 2011 lutherchips.com
Abby Greufe
Columnist
President Barack Obama’s effort to win legislative backing for military strikes against Syria passed its first hurdle last Wednesday when a Senate committee voted in favor of the action, but the narrow margin of victory showed the depth of U.S. reservations. Waiting on conclusive evidence, a state of apprehension is continuing to breed politically and domestically. Recent polling shows that the majority of the war-weary American public (65 percent) would not back President Obama’s call for a “limited strike” to help degrade the Syrian Government’s ability to utilize mass weaponry. Instead, a tracking poll vocalized the widespread American sentiment that “the problems of Syria are none of our business.” Mounting evidence indicates that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad did indeed use a sarin gas attack killing 1,400 people near Damascus on August 21st. These weapons of mass destruction are condemned internationally, yet the UN Security Council and other global powers have been hesitant to interfere. Even
the United Kingdom’s Parliament, the United State’s closest ally, voted down a motion of military support last week, thus reinforcing U.S. hesitance. The president said he was mindful that memories of the Iraq war were fresh, particularly in Europe. “Keep in mind, I’m somebody who opposed the war in Iraq, and am not interested in repeating mistakes of us basing decisions on faulty intelligence,” Obama said. “But having done a thorough ongoing evaluation of the information that is currently available, I can say with high confidence that chemical weapons were used.” Although President Obama as the Supreme Commander and Chief has the ability to order the strike unilaterally, he decided to wait on congressional support. The authorization faced significant resistance in both the Congress and the public, where many feared it could lead to a prolonged U.S. military involvement in Syria’s civil war and an escalation of regional violence. Almost half of the 433-member House and a third of the 100-member Senate remain undecided, and a survey by the Associated Press shows that House members
staking out positions are either opposed to or leaning against Obama’s plan by more than a 6-1 margin. Obama has also acknowledged the significant opposition internationally and congressionally calling his efforts a “hard sell.” The president has declined to say whether he would order an attack even if Congress rejects authorization. Perhaps partly in an attempt to avoid these Congressional and International concerns, President Obama released a statement Tuesday night that outlined a new and arguably less invasive course of action. Although Obama reserved the right to take military action if necessary, he is going to first pursue a diplomatic plan with Russia to end the chemical weapons dispute. As a primary Syria ally, Russian President Vlamir Putin stated on televised accounts that Syria was willing to accept Russian proposal for control of weaponry. However, he also warned that “All this will work only in case we hear that American side and all those who support it will denounce using force,” Supported by both France and the UK, the United States is working with Russian leadership to put Syrian weapons under international control without
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
Opinion
September 12, 2013 Editorial
A letter from the editor
Ingrid Baudler
Editor-in-Chief
This year’s Opening Convocation featured bestselling author, award-winning journalist and Professor of English at Case Western Reserve University Thrity Umrigar. She encouraged the first-years in the audience to
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“be good.” She asked them to call home simply to tell their mothers they loved them and to be patient when their friend couldn’t get over old relationships. She encouraged them to be completely engaged in their classes and to write a term paper that would remind their professor why he or she loved teaching. More importantly, Umrigar called on students to embrace their failures when they did not do any of the things she recommended. She urged them to recognize mistakes as a part of their humanity and to not be so hard on themselves when they don’t succeed this year. In many ways, Chips newspaper embodies much of what Umriger spoke about. Working at Chips isn’t just another campus job or a way to learn about journalism; it’s both at the same time. Students are often thrown into a position and expected to learn journalistic techniques while they are also expected to produce a professional, finished project. Most of their training comes from students who were thrown into the same situation one or two years before. There are real consequences when students make mistakes. These usually result
in late nights in the basement of the Union, with the more serious consequences being the newspaper’s credibility or legal ramifications. However, daunting situations have more often resulted in great achievements. Past members of Chips have learned to navigate sensitive articles ethically, even when their peers are involved. They have covered the King and Queen of Norway visitin Luther and President Obama campaigning in Decorah. And they have constantly expanded their knowledge about the Luther community and explored what its members were achieving. Chips staffers are driven individuals that have a passion for the paper and strive to serve the Luther community. I’m confident this will result in great achievements and moments of growth. But when we fail this year, as we have in times past, we will recognize our humanity, and hopefully take Umrigar’s advice not to be so hard on ourselves. So keep reading, sharing Chips articles and responding with opinion articles, because we’re here to report the news and we will let the chips fall where they may.
Athletic scholarships at Luther?
John Fruede
Columnist
The whole point of NCAA Division III athletics is to get students out for sports who truly love what they do. Money is not supposed to be a factor. As student-athletes at Luther, we all remember being told on our first visit that the school “doesn’t offer sports scholarships.” But that’s not actually true, now is it? Division III schools have been going around the rules and offering money to athletes for as long as
Opinion
there’s been an NCAA. No, they don’t blatantly hand prospective athletes a big offer that says we will pay you this much to come and play basketball for us, nor do all Division III schools look for loopholes. However, the few that do tell students to apply no matter and see how their financial aid package comes out before making a decision. I’m going to tell you all right now as someone who has worked in financial aid: your aid package is the same wherever you go. The only difference is the amount of institutional grant money they give you in the form of scholarships. That’s where the real surprise comes in. Instead of your standard aid plus achievement and departmental money, they throw in a little extra in the form of a leadership scholarship. How is this unfair, you ask? Well, in high school, usually the best athletes end up being voted for or selected as team captains. Walking into college with a title like that makes one an easy target for picking up a scholarship like this. Students who are very active in their church or community don’t quite get the same looks since their service and achievement isn’t as easy to sum up in a Common App. So of course the best athletes then get a little bump from some schools and not from others.
Now as a prospective student looking at his options, of course they’re more inclined to go to the school that offers more money. Who wouldn’t? But that’s not what Division III is supposed to be. We’re supposed to be the student-athletes with an emphasis on student. No, these scholarships aren’t huge full-ride packages, but they are enough to tip the scales away from an institution that plays by the rules. This makes sports the de facto clincher in a student’s decisionmaking process, not academics. It’s completely hypocritical for an institution to claim to uphold the Division III mentality and continue this process of scalping the best athletes. From the perspective of a Division III athlete who wants to win team titles and beat as many schools as possible, it’s just plain garbage knowing that there are teams out there stacking up the best guys simply because they are paying them more. If you get beat because a team outworked you or outplayed you that is one thing, but being beat because you can’t compete in the recruiting process simply because you play by the rules is disgusting. If you’re a Division III school who utilizes the leadership scholarship technique in recruiting, you need to attend those mandatory eligibility meetings way more than we do.
How to human
Marin Nycklemoe
Columnist
The day before I arrived at our dear alma mater, I had a rather terrifying experience. I was staying at my grandparents’ house
in Rochester as a buffer point for the long drive, and whilst helping my grandmother with dinner, she turned to me and asked me something truly terrifying: what did I think about Syria? The reason this frightened me so much was that my grandmother had lived in Rockford, a city just outside of Chicago during the race riots in the 60’s and had single handedly raised my father and uncle while my grandfather was in Vietnam. She was a woman who had witnessed and experienced firsthand many of the most controversial issues of the mid and late 20th century. Now it was my turn to get to experience and participate in new issues and changes. The thought was terrifying. It’s easy to go to history class and watch documentaries about the Cold War, Civil Rights and many other
hot bed issues. It’s quite another to actually live during them. History does repeat itself, but never in the exact same way. Events differ, endings surprise us and things sometimes fade away. This is an age of over-stimulation. So much information and opinion is forced on us that ignorance through education is quickly becoming an issue. By becoming so knowledgeable about an issue, you lose sight of what the actual issue is. It is impossible to understand and learn about every side and opinion of a topic, but it’s important that you don’t just quit because you believe you know all you need to. History is being made and the decisions we make, no matter how insignificant, will change the way things are seen and done. Challenge yourself and dig deeper. Find
the foundation of the issue and build from there. We are all at the changing point from those who will inherit the Earth to those who are supposedly running it. My grandmother’s generation lived through some truly difficult times, as have we. There are many more years ahead of us with decisions, triumphs and mistakes waiting before us. As the year begins, it’s important to remember our roots, but it’s also just as important to remember the present. As we start the year, many new issues and controversies will surface. Don’t hesitate to learn more and enter into debates you may lose. Challenge your beliefs and ideas, and never stop searching for your own truth. As 2013 ends, never forget where we came from and don’t be afraid of where we are going.
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
10 THIS DAY IN
HISTORY Sept. 12
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1940 - Lascaux cave paintings discovered 1777 - Congress receives news of defeat at Brandywine 1993 - New floating bridge opens in Seattle; I-90 stretches from coast to coast 1861 - The first battle of Lexington, Missouri begns 1990 - German occupation rights are relinquished 1988 - Hurricane Gilbert slams Jamaica 1953 - Nikita Kruschev elected Soviet Leader 1953 - John F. Kennedy marries Jacqueline Bouvier in Newport, Rhode Island 1846 - Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning elope 1918 - U.S. launches St. Mihiel offensive
News September 12, 2013 Students deal with pros and cons of living off campus Off-campus housing continued from page 1
campus beds every year. “In the spring, we start looking ahead to next fall and how many students will be in study away programs, student teaching programs and Rochester… and we know that we have a shortage of beds,” Bay said. While the number changes every year, it averages about 100 to 125 students. With more students studying abroad, more and more oncampus beds are available, making off-campus approval rates lower. Leases are legally binding documents. While some landlords will refund a down payment and remove a student from the lease if he or she does not get approved, others will not be so kind.
Bay said at least two students signed leases and currently pay rent for houses in which they were not approved to live. Bay also emphasized that students should ask landlords when the house was last inspected for smoke alarms, safety egresses and exit requirements, which are criteria they must meet to get a renter’s permit from the city of Decorah. Depending on the house and the landlord, students may be responsible for paying utilities like electricity, heating and water. “All of the sudden your cute little house that you’re renting for $200 a month, when you average out all those hidden costs, just [got more expensive],” Bay said. “Be clear on how much your bottom line is going to be every month. Off-campus living is consumerism, and so you want to be sure that you know what you’re paying for.”
High number of arrests over weekend Arrests continued from page 1
to anyone who was woken up by lights like I was,” Schreen said.“We understand that RA’s and authorities are always just doing their jobs but we just happen to be watching our lives circle down the drain here,” Schreen said. “I’m not Ferris Bueller and the
sympathy and support of my peers can’t help at all when sh*t actually does get real in the Luther bubble, but people’s lives get turned upside down every year because someone thinks it smells funny in the hallway.” The arrests at Apartments concluded a weekend of 15 arrests for the Decorah Police, all of which stemmed from drug and alcohol-
Interim President continued from page 1
the inauguration of the tenth president will be spent answering disruptors of higher education and solving this question. as the student cost and debt In such a turbulent time, Tiede spiral, the digitization of learning, suggests not only honoring the the regrouping success of the past of American 14 years led by communities, the President Torgerson, changing profile but also looking of prospective forward to the Luther college future and the great students and the things in store for measurement Luther College. -David Tiede “This is an of educational unusual moment at excellence by Luther College,” Tiede said. “We learning results. are celebrating the conclusion “How real, how significant of a wonderful presidency, are any of these for us at Luther but we are also looking to the College?” Tiede asked in his horizon for a future we can’t State of the College address. even see and asking, ‘what kind Tiede believes that this of leadership do we need now?’” year and the years following
“What kind of leadership do we need now?”
1942 - The Laconia (WWII ship) is sunk 1974 Violence in Boston over racial busing
Courtesy of http://infoplease.com, http://histoy.com
related conflicts and “continue to be a concern” for the department. The incident in College Apartments was the largest from the weekend but was the only one involving Luther students or on campus. The departments says it will “continue to pursue enforcement strategies that target this type of behavior.”
Tiede excited for opportunity
1951 Sugar Ray Robinson wins black belt
2002 - Tyco executives indicted
Johnson and his would-be housemates dispersed into College Apartments and Larsen and have consulted an attorney. However, off-campus living certainly can be a good experience. Megan Gress (‘14) lives in the newly remodeled Venneheim house on North Street. “The environment is warm and cozy and the landlords are always very open and easy to communicate with,” Gress said. “There are never any surprises.” Yet, after recent events at other houses, it is clear that students must be proactive and responsible when dabbling in the world beyond the “Luther Bubble.” “If you do really want to live off campus … look at the lease heavily,” Johnson said. “Get advice about your landlord. If he or she has had a bunch of other properties that have had problems, reconsider.”
Courtesy of luther.edu
State of the Norse. Tiede addressed the school Aug. 29.
d of the r o
W
Week
peplum \PEP-luhm\
noun 1. a short full flounce or an extension of a garment below the waist, covering the hips.
LUTHER COLLEGE CHIPS
September 12, 2013
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Soccer beats the heat Teams travel to Texas, men earn national ranking. Ty Pharaoh
Volunteer Writer
As Luther students made the most of their last two weeks of summer vacation, members of the men’s and women’s soccer teams were preparing to take on some of the top Division III teams in the nation. The trip to San Antonio was undoubtedly an exciting prospect for the players, but it came with a grueling price: learning how to handle the Texas heat. With winning on their minds, both teams altered their usual training regimens to ensure that the climate wouldn’t leave them at a disadvantage. To prepare for the heat, the Norse took to the pitch multiple times a day to practice in full sweat suits. “We started practicing in sweats for 20-minute increments and the time would increase every other practice after that,” co-captain Katie Van Winkle (‘14) said. “We had to get used to what it was like playing in dry heat. The sweat suits made us realize how the different climate would affect our performance.” The summer heat took its toll on everyone, including those more acclimated to warm weather. Breanne Pierce/Photo Bureau “I trained in the Texas heat all summer, but training in Balancing act. Forward Jon Gednalske (‘16) shoves past a St. Johns player as J.W. Slauson (‘15) looks on. full sweats was difficult, especially because of the high intensity of our practices,” midfielder and Texas native University, but Brock Arend’s (‘14) overtime heroics J.W. Slauson (‘15) said. secured a 1-0 victory and helped Luther earn the number After completing the strenuous training camp, the Norse six spot in the NCAA Division III rankings. In that game, faced their next challenge: each would play an 8th-ranked Luther outshot Southwestern 19-4 and Peter Wright (‘15) Trinity University team. The men took the pitch first and recorded his second-straight shutout. started off the season in great form. In the 19th minute, Both teams saw action on Sunday September 8 as the Matt Hoffman (‘14) was able to set up former Arrowhead men took on St. John’s and the women faced St. Benedict, High teammate Logan Martell (‘14) for Luther’s first goal. leaving with a 3-2 win and a 0-1 overtime loss, respectively. The Norse were able to add one more to their goal tally as The men scored three unanswered goals after starting in a Clay Walker (‘15) found the back of the net in the 39th, 0-2 hole against St. John’s. giving them a 2-0 victory. Both the men and women face a string of non-conference After suffering a 7-1 defeat against Trinity, the women opponents before making their collective conference debut battled commendably with 6th-ranked Hardin-Simmons against Buena Vista on September 28. University, a team in pursuit of their 12th straight conference title. After going down 2-0 early, Melisse By the Numbers Chasse (‘17) scored her first collegiate goal with a blast 6: NCAA National Rank of Luther Men’s from 20 yards out. Soccer Despite the match ending 4-1, co-captain Maggie Jasper 2: Goals scored by Jon Gednalske (‘16) (‘14) retained a positive outlook. “We were able to get everyone into the game without the and Logan Martell (‘14) skill level dropping,” Jasper said. “Obviously we wanted 100: Percentage of shots on goal scored to win, but we’ll take more out of a loss from a team like by Emily Gehlsen (‘16) (1 for 1) this than we would by beating a lesser team 9-0. The 219: Minutes played by goalkeeper Molly experience will carry over to the rest of the season and Jaimie Rasmussen/Photo Bureau Hilgart (‘17) help us in conference play.” Chasse-ing the ball. Melisse Chasse (‘17) sprints The men faced another tough test against Southwestern down the field during the game against St. Benedict’s.
Photo Courtesy of Jordan Fye
The hometown hero. Decorah native Brock Jaimie Rasmussen/Photo Bureau Arend (‘14) looks to pass the ball in Luther’s 3-2 win over St. John’s University on Sunday Sep. 8. She’s got moves. Midfielder Ellie Bunz (‘17) makes a move as a St. Benedict’s player tries to steal the ball.
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In depth with the new pool
September 12, 2013 Weekly Standings Football IIAC 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Coe Dubuque Simpson Wartburg Luther Buena Vista Central Loras
Overall 1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1
Recent scores: -Sept. 7 vs. Presentation College L 22-23 Upcoming schedule: -Sept. 14 vs. St. Olaf @ Home -Sept. 21 vs. Wheaton (Ill.) @ Wheaton
Women’s Soccer
Carrie Juergens/Chips
New year, new pool. Head Coach Lance Huber stands in front of the recently finished swimming and diving facility.
Carrie Juergens
Staff Writer
The new David E.G. and Patricia Miller Natatorium has finally opened. The new pool wouldn’t have become a reality without donations from 431 individuals, couples and businesses from Luther’s alumni base and around the community. The final price tag sat around $6.39 million, $500,000 of which came from a donation made by the Millers. The swimmers anticipate better performances as a result of the new facility. “A lot of the records will be falling in the next couple years,” men’s co-captain Sam Weinberg (‘15) said. Now Luther students are able to swim in a pool that’s made from the same materials as an Olympic pool. “It’s a very fast pool,” Head Coach Lance Huber said. “The gutter system absorbs the waves much faster than other pools. [There’s] less resistance: no reverb coming back up from the bottom.” Additionally, the water is cleaner than ever before thanks to the new UV filter system. It kills off more germs than the old
pool’s filtration system and the chlorine levels are at the lowest level they can be at by state code. These new standards are gentler on the athlete’s bodies as well. “The water tastes a lot better,” Weinberg said. “It’s really nice on the skin. It’ll be great for maintaining good hair throughout the year and it’s less irritating.” For some, the pool has been a long time coming. “[The remodel] has been in the works as long as I can remember,” women’s cocaptain Chloe Benjamin (‘14) said. “When I visited [as a prospective student], they said it might be done by the time I got here. It’s been a huge ordeal, but it’s finished, thank goodness!” Luther will be able to invite multiple teams to the pool because of the increased size of the pool and deck. Many more people can swim and dive at the same time. The pool also features two diving boards at one and three meters high. These boards lie within a separate diving well, which allows both teams to practice at once. The divers have many new features at their disposal as well including a sparger that blows bubbles up from the bottom of
the pool. If divers are trying a new dive, the bubbles help cushion them if they hit the water incorrectly. There is also a new scoreboard with a playback feature. “You can watch yourself after you [dive],” Zoe Johnson (‘16) said. “You set it for 15 seconds and then you get out and see it right after.” The swimmers and divers aren’t the only athletes to reap the benefits of the new pool. “We’ve had football, soccer, volleyball’s been in here, a lot of the cross-country girls and guys have been in here for rehab,” Huber said. “It’s utilized by not just our team, but all teams.” Luther faculty, staff and their families, students and outside community members with a pass can use the pool. The facility is the only indoor pool in all of Decorah. When all is said and done, the swimming and diving teams are excited to have such an incredible space. “I think that we’re really lucky to have a school and alumni that support us like they do, because this is an incredible facility,” Weinberg said.
IIAC 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Dubuque Loras Buena Vista Central Coe Wartburg Luther Simpson
Overall 4-0 4-1 2-2 2-2 2-2 1-2-1 0-3 0-4
Recent scores: -Sept. 8 vs. St. Benedict L 0-1 -Aug. 31 vs. Hardin-Simmons L 1-4 Upcoming schedule: -Sept. 15 vs. St. Olaf @ Northfield -Sept. 18 vs. UW-La Crosse @ Home
Volleyball Simpson Buena Vista Coe Loras Luther Dubuque Central Wartburg
IIAC 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Overall 4-0 5-1 8-2 5-2 4-4 3-4 2-3 3-5
Recent scores: -Sept. 7 vs. St. Olaf W 3-1 -Sept. 7 vs. Martin Luther W 3-0 Upcoming schedule: -Sept. 14 vs. Knox @ Home -Sept. 14 vs. Cornell @ Home
Women’s Tennis
Central Coe Luther Wartburg Loras Buena Vista Simpson Dubuque
IIAC 2-0 2-0 2-0 2-1 1-2 1-3 1-3 0-2
Overall 4-0 4-0 3-2 3-2 2-4 2-3 1-5 3-3
Recent scores: -Sept. 8 vs. Wartburg W 8-1 Upcoming schedule: -Sept. 10 vs. Grinnell @ Waterloo -Sept. 15 vs. Coe @ Home
Men’s Soccer Loras Wartburg Simpson Luther Coe Central Buena Vista Dubuque
IIAC 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Overall 4-0-1 3-0-1 3-0 3-1 2-0-1 2-2 1-3 0-3
Recent scores: -Sept. 8 vs. St. John’s W 3-2 Upcoming schedule: -Sept. 15 vs. St. Olaf @ Northfield -Sept. 18 vs. UW-Platteville @ Home