Thursday, February 11, 2010
www.msureporter.com
Minnesota State University, Mankato
MAVERICKS TO COMPETE AT 2010 WINTER OLYMPICS, SEE PAGE 13 Former MSU administrator dies Claire Faust spent 25 years with MSU REPORTER STAFF
Former Minnesota State administrator Claire Faust died Monday at age 89 at Hillcrest Health Care Center in Mankato. Faust contributed 25 years of service to MSU in many fashions. A former faculty member, assistant vice president for academic affairs and vice president for administrative services, he was active in a variety of departments in the university from 1962 to 1987. His contributions to Mankato expanded well beyond the campus boundaries and include involvement in organizations such as the Mankato City Council, Mankato Kiwanis Club and the Blue Earth Environmental Committee. A MSU public service award was established to recognize a university employee and was named after Faust. Plans for a memorial service are pending.
Making the case for long-term relationships See page 17
cezara talmaci • msu reporter Minnesota State couple Keiko Umeki and Shawn He hold hands outside the library in Fall 2009.
MSSA talks MSUSA conference in St. Cloud JOHN FRITZ
staff writer
At the Minnesota State Student Association (MSSA) senate meeting Wednesday, President Murtaza Rajabali explained what happened, and how he voted, at a meeting of student senators from colleges statewide in St. Cloud over the weekend. Rajabali is a voting member of the Minnesota State University Senate Association (MSUSA), which is comprised of delegates from each of Minnesota’s seven state universities and represents student interests throughout the state college system and in the state legislature. Rajabali said MSUSA approved giving each university $1,000 dollars to help fund an on-campus diversity conference. While the MSU delegates voted in favor of the resolution, Rajabali and MSSA Vice President Bob Dooley were unhappy with the provision granting each school an equal amount of money. Rajabali said that since MSU gives more funding, about 25 percent of the total, to MSUSA than smaller schools (St Cloud State also contributes around 25 percent), it is “getting a really bad deal” by receiving the same
as everyone else. “We’re basically paying for their conferences,” said Rajabali. Dooley said he was unsure that giving MSUSA $90,000 of student fees annually is the best way represent student interests. “With [that $90,000], we could have our own representative at the Capitol full time,” Dooley said. MSSA senators also heard that campus recreation would enjoy a $700,000 bonding surplus by 2019. The additional funds, brought about by lowerthan-expected interest rates, give the senate a wide range of options. A proposal to build outdoor hockey and basketball facilities, which had been shelved as too expensive, will be reconsidered at next week’s meeting. Senator Brett Carpenter, an aviation major, brought the senate up to speed on his department’s struggle to avoid the chopping block. Carpenter met with fellow aviation students and College of Education dean Mike Miller early Tuesday, and reported that plans are moving ahead quickly to strike a deal with Chinese airlines that would send hundreds of aspiring Chinese pilots per year to study at MSU, possibly saving the program.
Talking real about race First event of Black History Month takes place at MSU BLAINE TAYLOR MARTIN
staff writer
index
In the United States, black history month is comprised of experiences passed from generation to generation that leave an indelible impression on all those they touch. February is Black History Month and the Office of Multicultural Affairs is hoping to make it a time of “real talk” — open, honest dialogue about race. This was the inspiration for the “Real Talk” events, a Editorial...................................6 Voices......................................7 Sports......................................9 Variety....................................17 Classifieds............................ 23
series of four student-panel discussions centered on race issues. The first in the series, entitled “Real Talk: the Future is in our Hands” was held Tuesday in the Centennial Student Union. The panel, comprised of freshmen Will Anyu and Vanessa Chandler, sophomore Que Wilson and junior Thuy Huynh, was given the chance to share experiences and discuss topics of equality and prejudice. Though only
wale agboola • msu reporter Thuy Huynh, Que Wilson and Vanessa Chandler were part of an MSU student panel discussion about race Tuesday.
a relatively small section of the racial spectrum was represented, debate did, at times, become heated. The event’s facilitator, Connie Johnson, fed the
Trampled by Turtles finds balance between punk and bluegrass in upcoming album, See page 17
panel questions to direct the discussion. Questions such as, “In the community, what do you think are our problems and issues that we need to address?” and “Now that we
have a black President, what should be the next aspiration for minorities?” In response to the first question Wilson said,
Race / page 10
Page 2 • Reporter
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Thursday, February 11, 2010
News
Reporter • Page 3
A chance to dance the night away Graduate Research
Conference seeks apps Deadline for applications is March 5, conference in April GRACE WEBB
staff writer
wale agboola • msu reporter CLASA President Juan Muñoz poses with one of the masks the group is selling for the Masquerade. Masks sell for $2-$6 and will be sold before the event and at the door.
Second annual masquerade to be held Friday YOONKI KIM
staff writer
There’s still going to be some fun this weekend for people who don’t want to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The Chicano Latin-American Student Association (CLASA) will hold a masquerade in the Centennial Student Union Ballroom at 8 p.m. Saturday. “I encourage everyone to come. If you have a partner, bring them with; if you don’t you can find one there,” said Juan Muñoz, CLASA president. The masquerade won’t start until after the celebration for Lunar New Year by Vietnamese American Student Association that starts at 5 p.m. The masquerade, which lasts until 11:30 p.m., will feature a
“
If you have a partner, bring them with. If you don’t you can find one there.”
— Juan Muñoz, CLASA President
student DJ. “We will play modern hiphop and dance music. It’s going to be like a real big party,” said Sagal Ali, the former treasurer of CLASA who was in charge of the event last year. The event is free and open students and the general public, but does require a mask for entry. People can bring their own masks, or buy ones that CLASA will sell at the door. Prices range from $2-6 for one of three masks. Last year the event was a
part of the Maverick After Dark program, and it provided masks for free. Muñoz said the event doesn’t have a specific dress code, and any kind of masks, including traditional ones, will be welcome. About 200 people came to the masquerade last year, according to Muñoz. “Hopefully, everyone can make it down before Valentine’s Day,” he said. “I’d say come well dressed.”
Graduate students wishing to present their research projects are given the opportunity at this year’s Graduate Research Conference, which will take place on April 12 and 13. The research conference is a place where any graduate student can present his or her work. There are three methods of presentation: oral, where the student presents to an audience for about 15 minutes; poster, a “science fair” setting where students set up a poster and spectators can walk by and ask questions; and performance/ demonstration, where students engage the audience in their presentation, such as offering a workshop having to do with their research project. Last year was the first time MSU offered a graduate-level research conference. Ninetysix students participated. At that conference, graduates were judged on how they presented. This year there will be no judges, since the train of thought is that all graduates should be proficient at presenting work by now. Instead, the focus is on offering professional presentations. Amin Abdul Mohomed,
graduate assistant for the College of Graduate Studies and Research, said presenting at the conference is a great way for students to gain experience and also build good resumès. “MSU is one of the few schools that hosts such a conference,” Abdul Mohomed said. “It’s a great opportunity for all students.” The conference is open to the entire community to observe what graduate students are doing. Last year, stated Abdul Mohomed, the university had a large attendance and is expected to have as big of an audience this year. In order to secure a presentation spot at the conference, students should go to the university Web site and fill out an application. Abdul Mohomed stressed that students do not need to have all of their research completed by the entry deadline; they just need to submit an abstract and have an advisor. Even at the conference, they don’t need to have all their research yet, just a substantial amount that will adequately explain their project. Papers are encouraged but not necessary. The deadline for applications is March 5.
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Thursday, February 11, 2010T
A way to welcome in the Lunar New Year Vietnamese, East Asian student organizations to celebrate the new year with performances YOONKI KIM
staff writer
This Saturday marks Tet, the Vietnamese new year. It is the most popular and celebrated holiday in Vietnamese culture. This year, The Vietnamese Student Association at Minnesota State will celebrate Tet, or the Lunar New Year in the Centennial Student Union Ballroom from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. “It’s a day before Valentine’s Day, so why don’t you come with your girlfriend?” said Baonhi Phung, the president of VSA. “I want everyone to come and enjoy the cultural night, learn about the Vietnamese new year and spread diversity around our campus.” VSA will provide authentic Vietnamese food from the Twin Cities, including rice cakes, Goi (Vietnamese salad), spring rolls, fried rice, lo mein and stir fry. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and performances will start at 5:15 p.m. The performers will present the traditional lion dance, fan dance and rice hat dance. Singers will sing Chinese and Vietnamese songs. Students from East Asian
submitted photo Dancers perform the lion dance at last year’s Lunar New Year. VSA will perform the dance again this year, along with the fan dance and rice hat dance. Students from all areas of East Asia will help with the event.
countries including Korea, China, Japan and as Vietnam will display their traditional costumes in the fashion show as the finale. Phung said four other international student associations from East Asia
If you go: Tickets will be sold in the CSU MavAve 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday Tickets are $5 for students $7 for the general public The event starts at 5 p.m. Saturday in the Ballroom will help VSA prepare the event. The tickets are $5 for students with their MavCard and $7 for the general public until Friday. Tickets will be an extra $2 at the door. Children 10 years of age and younger enter and eat free. VSA will sell tickets from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday by the food court in the CSU. Otherwise, stop by the office of Multicultural
Affairs, CSU 243. The Lunar New Year has a long tradition at MSU. “The event has been in celebration since the early ’80s, nearly three decades,” said Christopher Tran, assistant director for Asian American and Pacific Islander Affairs. The Lunar New Year is a celebration of the new year in Vietnam, Phung said. “It is a new year welcoming spring, where families get together and celebrate for about a week,” Phung said. “There is something called ‘lucky money’. Also known as ‘li xi’, they are red envelopes and inside is money. They are given to wish luck for the new year. They are mostly given to children as gifts.” Korea, China and Mongolia share the new year holiday, even though they use solar calendar. “After the event, there is the masquerade and VSA is sponsoring it. It’s a kind of after-party dance. If anyone wants to come to that too, they’re welcome,” Phung said. The Chicano LatinAmerican Student Association will hold the Masquerade in the Ballroom right after the Lunar New Year event is done.
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Thursday, February 11, 2010
News
Reporter • Page 5
In honor of MSU’s Student Financial Services to hold FAFSA help session ‘global citizens’ Faculty and staff who have made contributions to globablization efforts to be recognized, awarded today
year at MSU and will retire a year from June. He has participated in and coordinated Ten members of the student trips abroad to Minnesota State faculty countries such as Mexico, and staff will be honored at Spain, Ecuador, and Costa the second annual Rica. Global Citizen Award “I’m very honored ceremony. The to receive the award,” Global Citizen Award said Heise. “It’s a recognizes faculty, staff very nice recognition and students who have of commitment made contributions to to international globalization efforts education.” at the university in Heise, who touts Basil Janavaras Mankato. himself a fan of the Last year, recipients global community, of the award were only those said that many students who that received Fullbright participate in study abroad Scholarships. This year, programs consider it to be the process was amended a “prime, main to include not only event in their life”. Fullbright grantees but Heise also said such a nominating process as experiences mirror well. Nominations were one of his very own made last fall and then in which he and a went to the International friend drove down to Program Advisory Mexico in his 1953 Council for assessment Ford. and selection. Linda Meidl John Janc, The criteria for the another awardee, award included having said that there have been led a successful international many rewarding things about study program for three his experiences with study or more years, serving on abroad programs, but the most the International Program important one is what it does Advisory Council for three for the students. or more years, establishing a “The most rewarding thing successful partnership with is seeing students live in a an international partner in foreign environment where the last five years, providing they have to learn to adapt,” institutional support services Janc said, “[seeing them] that facilitated international programming for three or more adopt different ways of seeing the world.” years and being a recognized Other recipients of the international awardee within award are Linda Good from the past two years. the department of Elementary Linda Meidl from the and Early Childhood College of Business is a Education and Basil Janavaras recipient of the award this from the Department of year. Marketing and International “I’m very surprised,” Business. Fullbright faculty said Meidl. “To hear what honorees receiving the Global the criteria was was very Citizen Award include Donna flattering.” Casella from the English Meidl was nominated for her work as a student relations Department, Kathryn Elliot from Anthropology, David coordinator with those who Laverny-Rafter of Urban and were studying abroad as well Regional Studies, Lee Tesdell as working with exchange from the English Departmen students at MSU. Meidi and Jacqueline Vieceli of helped exchange students International Relations. understand the educational The awards ceremony system in the United States and reception will be held and helped them acclimate in the Heritage Room of the with their academics and Centennial Student Union classes. from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Karl Heise, from the today. department of Modern ADAM PULCHINSKI
staff writer
Languages, is also an award recipient. Heise is in his 34th
JENNY POLLOCK
staff writer
Student Financial Services will hold FAFSA help sessions for Minnesota State students in March and February. The FASFA is more specifically known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. “It [FASFA] collects income information to produce an award letter,” said Sue Romsa, student financial services advisor. The award letter notifies students of the federal aid they are eligible for. Students can then decide or accept what is offered. In order to receive the most help at the sessions, students should bring their parents and there own 2009 Federal Tax returns, W-2, and their federal pin number. If students do not already have a federal pin number, the session can show students how to get one at the session. “It’s a good decision to submit a FASFA application. it opens up doors for a great
If you go:
All FAFSA help sessions will be held in Wissink Hall’s ACC 125. Feb. 16 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. Feb. 18 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. Feb. 24 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. Feb. 25 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Mar. 3 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. Mar. 4 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. Mar. 10 4:30 p.m.- 6 p.m. Mar. 11 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. particular loan offers a lower interest rate and payment can be differed until after graduation. When filling out FASFA it is required for the applicant to mark independent or dependant on the application. You don’t get to choose if you are independent or dependant. Your situation determines it. Married students, for example, are automatically independent. “Financial aid program on our website that explains the dependency and independent status,” Marble said.
majority of students,” said Jan Marble, director of student financial services. FASFA offers a variety of different awards. Pell grants can be awarded; this is money that does not need to be paid back. The FASFA is also what determines if a student is eligible for a work-study position on campus. Another possibility is student loans. Some of the loans offered by FASFA have perks that other loans do not. The Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans provides some perks when it comes to borrowing money. This
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Love doesn’t come cheap on V-day
Americans will spend an estimated $14 billion this holiday
The lovey-dovey, pink and fuzzy day of the year is fastapproaching, carrying with it a hefty price tag. This year Americans will spend nearly $14 billion on Valentine’s Day according to the National Retail Federation’s annual consumer survey, proving that love definitely doesn’t come cheap. Each year, millions of chocolates, flowers and diamonds are sold as people shell out oodles of cash on products for their significant others and spouses. “Love” may have this holiday’s heart, but “Every kiss begins with Kay” on this Hallmark holiday. In this society, it seems we are what we purchase,
so although the day may be recognizing the ones you love, the terms of endearment are costly. Sure, giving and receiving gifts may represent the love we have for one another and on the national day of affection, who doesn’t want to feel wanted and appreciated? But if people really love each other, they shouldn’t need an excuse to celebrate it (and they certainly shouldn’t need a reminder). On the other hand, if couples want to embrace the day as their own, they should. Such a day should be spent to reflect or acknowledge the romance in relationships, but it seems that petals and
Letter to the editor
candy cannot possibly be the best way to represent this for everyone. It is troubling to see so much time and effort go into a single day for something that is said to be everlasting, unconditional and the ultimate driving force of the human condition. Who knows what the divorce rate would be if America sprinkled all of their V-day efforts across the span of each year, rather then one silly day in February. The pressure that couples feel to please their partners on this day may be substantial, but for many single people, Valentine’s Day doesn’t smell of roses. What can be said about a day that slaps
everyone in the face with an overwhelming stereotype of what love should look like for the purpose of purchasing products? Happy single people can only take so many nauseating reminders of cookie-cutter love before they begin to feel inadequate, even though they may be completely satisfied otherwise. Whether you are solo or taken, this lovely Sunday should be celebrated however you see fit. If that means spending footing the bill for the average $65 in goods that each American couple will spend per partner, then let’s hope the motive and meaning will outlast the glitz.
compiled by Wale Agboola
What is your favorite Winter Olympic event?
Mallory Miller • Sr • Art History “Ice skating.”
Does drinking really make you fat?
Minnesota State University, Mankato
As the spring semester moves along and graduation nears, I like many other seniors are preparing ourselves for graduation. After my long tenure at Minnesota State, there has been one common topic of conversation that I feel I must speak out about before I leave this institution. It is all too often I hear students discussing alcohol consumption and how it affects weight gain. There are numerous rumors and half truths regarding alcohol and weight gain. I have heard things such as taking shots instead of drinking beer will not cause you to gain weight, or that it’s the food you eat while drinking that cause the weight gain, not the beer itself. These misconstrued tales are not solely a inaccuracy among college communities. I recently saw and episode of Manswers in which “The Beer Diet” was one of the headlining stories (www.
spike.com/manswersseason-1/2993813). On this episode they had a very good looking “nutritionist” on the show to give facts and her opinion on the beer diet. First off, a “nutritionist” is not really an expert. For legitimate nutrition advice, make sure that it’s coming from a registered dietitian, and not just an attractive nutritionist. In this story it was said that the “beer gut” is a rumor, and that beer doesn’t have fat, and therefore cannot give you a beer belly. Statements like these are completely false, and give people false hopes about weight gain. Yes, beer does not have fat, and eating while drinking helps give a beer gut. However, what most people don’t understand is that alcohol has a ton of calories. For example a Keystone Light has about 104 calories in each can, most of which comes from the alcohol. So if you are to drink just 12 beers, you will be consuming
over 1,200 calories. That is enough calories to cause weight gain even though there is no fat and minimal carbohydrates. Another rumor is that it’s the carbs in beer that causes the weight gain, and taking shots will solve that problem. This is also false, although the carbs can help with the weight gain, it is not the main cause. For everyone that is unaware, alcohol itself contains an insane amount of calories. A one and a half ounce shot of pure alcohol (Everclear) contains nearly 300 calories. That’s nearly twice as much as shot of pure sugar. Alcohol or pure ethanol has seven calories per gram compared to sugar which has four calories per gram. So obviously it’s not the carbs or the food you eat when you drink that causes you to gain weight, but the alcohol itself. In this same episode, the nutritionist said beer increases your energy metabolism. That couldn’t
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be further from the truth, it actually does the exact opposite. Alcohol slows down your metabolic pathways causing the calories you consume to be turned into fat much quicker. So if you think taking shots prevents you from getting fat, think again. According to Anne Fletcher, a registered dietitian who spoke at MSU in November, if you are to drink six beers, twice a week, for forty weeks a year (So take twelve weeks off), you will have consumed enough calories to gain twenty two pounds. Although I doubt most people who drink that much will gain 22 pounds in a year, it is something to ponder before you drink. I’m not suggesting that everyone quits drinking, but I felt that I had to shed some light on a common college conversation. Bob Dooley Senior dietetics student
Elizabeth Wright • So • Elem. Ed “The opening event.”
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“Snowboarding.”
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“Hockey.”
OUR POLICIES & OTHER INFORMATION • If you have a complaint, suggestion or would like to point out an error made in the Reporter, call Editor in Chief Nicole Smith at (507) 389-5454. The Reporter will correct any errors of fact or misspelled names in this space. Formal grievances against the Reporter are handled by the Newspaper Board, which can be contacted at (507) 389-2611. • The Minnesota State University Mankato Reporter is a student-run newspaper published twice a week, coming out on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Reporter generates 78 percent of its own income through advertising and receives approximately 22 percent from Student Activities fees. The Reporter is free to all students and faculty, but to start a subscription, please call us at (507) 389-1776. Subscriptions for the academic school year are $35.00 and subscribers will receive the paper within three to five days after publishing. • Letters exceeding 400 words may not be accepted. The Reporter reserves the right to edit letters to fit space or correct punctuation. The Reporter reserves the right to publish, or not publish, at its discretion. Letters must contain year, major or affiliation with the university, or lack thereof. All letters must contain phone numbers for verification purposes.
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Distorting or reporting? Holding onto his faith in journalism, one writer is determined to get people to speak up despite America’s mistrust in the media “This chicken-and-egg quandary — was it inaccurate reporters or fussy sources that came first? — proves most worrisome for the moon-faced graduates of journalistic studies.” As a young reporter, it’s discouraging three people to trust me with their name and when sources don’t want to cooperate. As a information; that’s assuming that a couple young reporter, I’m always discouraged. “fair” people are leaning my way. It’s amazing how frightened people are The poll suggests a steady correlation of the press. Most people I talk over the recent years between what to — for stories as innocent people think of the media and and mundane as a feature on whether or not people believe the watching anime — become media lean one way or another on skittish as soon as I tell them I’m the political spectrum. Currently, a reporter. It’s as if they’re afraid 60 percent of Americans believe I’m going to uncover a sinister the media swing either too liberal truth about them and plaster it or too conservative, with only 35 around the globe. percent saying the media land just “Watching anime is one of about in the middle. my favorite pastimes,” Gilligan With more people paying strict Safari said, revealing his attention to political news, these Jacob Bohrod adoration of Osama bin Laden! numbers suggest that the public Walk into any local business is equating all journalism with and ask what they do and the bias political coverage. In other purpose of their being and they will be glad words, when I ask my source about how he to answer. Ask them the same questions as a discovered anime, he’s worried I’m going reporter and suddenly they can’t talk, they’re to somehow spin his words into a political too busy, they don’t remember their names, statement. they’re on their lunch break, they really “I started watching anime at my friend’s don’t know the answer to the questions, their house,” Safari said. “Abortion will be the manager isn’t there right now and her hours downfall of this nation.” are so erratic that it’s going to be hard to Another survey, conducted by The Pew reach her. Research Center in July of last year, found According to a Gallup poll people’s confidence in the accuracy of conducted in early September 2009, 55 media reports at its lowest level since Pew percent of Americans have little or no started the survey in 1985. A whopping 63 confidence in the media’s reporting. Thirtypercent of Americans distrust the accuracy five percent say they have a “fair amount” of of news stories; this number is up 10 confidence in the media. percentage points from 2007’s 53 percent. This means that out of 10 people These are discouraging numbers for contacted for a story, I’ll be lucky if I get reporters ready to enter the field. It’s hard to
provide quality reports when partial quotes and anonymous sources are the mainstay, even if one is reporting on anime. This chicken-and-egg quandary — was it inaccurate reporters or fussy sources that came first? — proves most worrisome for the moon-faced graduates of journalistic studies. The damage has already been done, and it is the unfortunate state of things that the young are forced to live with the mistakes of their predecessors. In this line of work, it is the responsibility of the individual to gain trust and credibility for the entire profession; thus, as with a classroom of grade-schoolers waiting for the most hyper of the bunch to stop yammering so they can go to lunch early, one can ruin it for the rest. This fact alone should see me running into the arms of a more reputable career, such as a state senator or home-run-hitting baseball star. But there is something inside me that believes somewhere out in the great wide world there are people who will still talk to the media, and with their help I can finally write a decent story on anime. That dream will just not die. With that, I implore: Help the young reporter who wants your opinion on “Dragon Ball Z.” He will not do you wrong. ... Next, find out who loves “Akira” and neo-Nazism! —Jacob Bohrod is a Reporter staff writer. He is contemplating becoming a lawyer so people will trust him more.
Page 8 • Reporter
News
Thursday, February 11, 2010T
Specialists here to help the students
Software consultant program helps College of Business students with questions about classes, technology-related problems ADAM PULCHINSKI
staff writer
Students needing help at Minnesota State’s College of Business need look no further than a common study area in Morris Hall. Sitting there at any given time are fellow students to field questions ranging from printer problems to where their elusive classrooms are. The College of Business Software Consultant program has been in place for three years, started by the Technology Enhancement Committee. Cathy Colby, team leader for the Laptop Initiative, said the purpose of the consultants is to provide assistance to business students for the software applications used in course curriculum as well as with other digital resources.
“These students can also be requested by [College of Business] faculty to assist with technology needs in the classroom,” said Colby. This assistance can sometimes be in the form of checking hardware, such as the SMART boards, are working properly. Currently, three students are employed as consultants and are scheduled to work around their classes and other school obligations. The most common times are from Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday until 3 p.m. The positions, which are paid and funded out of the Initiative Laptop Program through the College of Business, are standard student employment and posted on Mavjobs.com when there is an opening. Aracely Alba, a double
“
major in International Our only purpose is to help students. We are an Business and excellent resource when students have minor Marketing, is one of questions about homework or any other questions in the students general.” employed as a consultant. She said the — Aracely Alba, College of Business consultant many upperlevel business consultants don’t know the questions from students courses she has taken gave answer, they can usually but has been called upon to her experience working with direct students to someone answer other questions as business software. who can help. well. “Previous experience with “Our only purpose is to “Usually the first days of Excel, Access, PowerPoint, help students,” Alba said. school we get many students and Word were also very asking where their classrooms “We are an excellent resource helpful,” Alba said. “You are located as well as how to when students have minor have to be computer savvy add/drop classes,” Alba said. questions about homework in order to help students out Alba said Morris Hall is or any other questions with problems they might a busy location, so she has in general. It is a good have.” also answered questions program and we are all very Alba, who has already knowledgeable about College about loading resumés started hunting for a postof Business events, teachers, and registering for online graduation job, said that she classes and general advising if books and software. Alba mostly fields software-related also pointed out that if the need be.”
MSU to hold blood drive
Volleyball team, Upward bound to work with American Red Cross to collect blood GRACE WEBB
staff writer
More than 38,000 blood donations are needed every day, according to the American Red Cross Web site, and more than 4.9 million Americans need blood every year. One blood donation can help up to three people, and yet less than 10 percent of Americans donate blood annually. Upward Bound and the Minnesota State volleyball team are trying to change this. Working with the American Red Cross, they will host a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Centennial Student Union Ballroom. The MSU volleyball team has been helping out with blood drives for the past four years, said Lori Rittenhouse-Wollmuth, assistant volleyball coach.
Players volunteer to work registration and information tables, and many also donate blood. “This is something the volleyball players and coaching staff look forward to annually,” she said. “It’s a great way to give back to the community and lend a hand to a great cause.” “Our team just helps out at the blood drive every year, checking people in and making sure they have all of the information they need,” said Amanda Thompson, a junior on the team. “It’s something I’ve done ever since I’ve been here.” Shaleena Lewis, a freshman majoring in nursing, had her first experience donating blood last November when the Red Cross had a blood drive on campus. Lewis said she was dragged to the event by a friend
and she was afraid that she’d need to get stabbed multiple times to give blood. In reality, though, the process was smooth and efficient. “It was really fun,” Lewis said, “and the nurse was funny. It was a good experience.” Lewis said she is planning on giving blood during the February drive. Donating blood is a simple process composed of four parts: registration and medical history, mini-physical, donation and refreshments afterwards. While the entire process takes about an hour, the actual donation only takes 10-12 minutes. Appointments can be made by calling 507-389-1211 or going online to givebloodgivelife.org and clicking “Search by Sponsor Code,” then typing in 5952. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Commission to report on Honduran coup TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras (AP) — Former Guatemalan Vice President Eduardo Stein says a truth commission being formed in Honduras to investigate the events that led to the ouster of President Manuel Zelaya will present its findings in June. Stein is to be the chairman of the panel. He said Wednesday it will be formally established later this month and will include two Hondurans and three more foreigners.
Honduras’ army flew Zelaya out of the country last June after he pushed ahead with plans for a referendum on changing the constitution even though Honduras’ Supreme Court ruled the vote illegal. The coup was widely condemned by other nations. The United States has pushed for the creation of a truth commission to sort out responsibilities in the coup.
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COMPILED BY ELENA SHUFELT
Feb. 23, 1960 “Dorm rates jump up $10” The Minnesota State College Board passed a measure to increase dorm rates by $10 in September 1960. That brought state college dorm rates to $210 from the previous cost of $200. Richard Hammel, the consulting architect for the state department of administration, suggested $7,000,000 for dormitory and food service be included in the State College Board request to the 1961 legislature. That was more than half the amount proposed for dormitories at all state colleges in Minnesota. Feb. 15, 1973 “Gas prices skyrocket” Minnesotans expected a major gas shortage by the end of February. More than 60 percent of students at Mankato State drove an automobile and were expecting to ration gasoline usage. The Vietnam War took up five times the amount of oil than both the Korean and World Wars. The Nixon Administration sent enough oil to Vietnam to heat and light every home in America. In the Twin Cities, prices generally dropped due to gasoline wars, but the rise in
cost made price reductions fall much shorter than previous gas war levels. Mankato was lucky not to have hit the 50 cents per gallon mark, but prices were expected to hit up to $1 a gallon in the spring. Feb. 7, 1989 “Registration by phone”
installation of the system would have cost students $1 per quarter. Without student funding, the system was looking at a five to seven year waiting period before being implemented. Feb. 11, 1993 “Students lobby for affordable tuition”
Mankato State Student Association supported the new option for students to register for classes via touch-tone phone. The system was expected to shorten the process and cut back on the number of registration workers. “Just think, you won’t have to stand in line,” Trancey Williams, student senator, said. The process was expected to better utilize student and staff time and would be more convenient to off-campus students. The proposed idea was that students with touch-tone phones could enter system access codes and course identification numbers to register. A library information system was also proposed, which would allow students to find out future campus activities and financial aid information over the phone. The planning and
The 1994-95 proposed budget was expected to increase tuition by 24 percent, so students banded together. More than 300 state university students lobbied for affordable tuition at the capitol. Students were told it would be effective to lobby on the issue while it was still in the decision stage. Additional tuition concerns stemmed from two previous legislative sessions where the Minnesota Private College Council introduced a plan that would double state university costs. Private colleges were expected to receive most of the money because of the higher cost of their tuition. Students paid one-third of instructional costs and the state paid the remaining twothirds. The MPCC planned to “flip-flop” that formula forcing students to pay the two-thirds instead.
RACE ‘I just want people to be knowledgable about issues in the community” continued from 1 “Education is the key role. Those that know are ones that have, those that don’t are ones that don’t, you know?” Unfortunately for those in attendance, the panel members’ passion for these subjects seemed to exceed their ability to articulate a clear position. The muddled responses sounded more like rants and only confused audience members. The noted exemption to this being Wilson, who spoke with a measured enthusiasm and casual tone which engaged his small audience. When asked what he thought the point of the panel was, Wilson said, “This is not
an issue we can be stagnant about. We can’t just sit and let it fester.” “I just want people to be knowledgeable about issues in the community,” said Anyu. “It’s good to see people are realizing there’s an issue and trying to step forward and confront it,” said sophomore Katie Esselman, one of the event’s attendees. The “Real Talk” series is just one of the events the Office of Multicultural Affairs had been planning to celebrate Black History Month. Unfortunately, the faculty/ staff extravaganza scheduled for Tuesday night had to be postponed until April 19.
Minnesota State will again host the Pan African Student Leadership Conference Feb. 24-27. The conference will feature paper presentations and panel discussions relating to the conference’s theme: Pan African challenges and solutions to worldwide problems There is certainly much for future panels to build on. The second installment in the series entitled “Real Talk: We are all in This Together” will take place at 10 a.m. today in CSU 201. Subsequent panels are scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday at 1 p.m. and 10 a.m. respectively, in CSU 201.
Thursday, February 11, 2010T
Target recalls bears after lead concerns OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Target Corp. said Tuesday it was pulling its Valentine’s Day “Message Bears” from store shelves after California’s attorney general raised concerns that the toys have illegal levels of lead. The response comes a day after a letter sent by Attorney General Jerry Brown said testing of the holiday toys revealed lead levels that violate federal law. The products, which were made in China for Target’s in-house brand, were identified as the retailer’s two “Message Bears” — one a pink stuffed bear with “XOXO” across the chest and the other a brown stuffed bear with “I Love U” across the chest, with “love” represented by a heart. Investigators from the Center for Environmental Health, a nonprofit watchdog, found that the bears’ inflated vinyl letters contained well over federal limits for lead in products for children under the age of 12. Beth Hanson, a spokeswoman for the
1129 Cross Street North Mankato, MN
Minneapolis-based Target, said the company received Brown’s letter and has pulled the toys. She said it is conducting an internal investigation. “We are removing the product from shelves as well as hard-locking them at the registers,” Hanson said. “Target’s initial investigation indicates this product had compliant testing results when it was shipped.” Hanson declined to say how many of the Valentine’s Day bears Target had sold or purchased. The lead levels were brought to Brown’s attention by the center, which bought the toys at stores in California. Lead exposure can damage the nervous system and other organs, and can be especially harmful to children. “Parents need to know that lead-tainted vinyl has no place on products for their kids,” Caroline Cox, research director for CEH, said in a statement. The bears were sold exclusively by Target stores, the center’s report stated.
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News
Reporter • Page 11
Many Presbyterians open to other beliefs LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The Presbyterian Church USA’s statement of faith says God through Jesus Christ delivers followers “from death to life eternal.” But one in three members of the nation’s largest Presbyterian denomination seem to believe there’s some wiggle room for nonChristians to get into heaven, according to a recent poll. The Presbyterian Panel’s “Religious and Demographic Profile of Presbyterians” found that 36 percent of members disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement: “Only followers of Jesus Christ can be saved.” Another 39 percent, or about two-fifths, agreed or strongly agreed with the statement. “There seems to be some universalist streak in Presbyterianism, where some Presbyterians are open to the idea of other paths that folks in other faiths might be taking,” said Perry Chang, administrator of the Presbyterian Panel, which convenes every three years. The Presbyterian Church USA, with about 2.1 million members, is the largest Presbyterian denomination in the country. A total of 3,450 Presbyterians responded to the study, which was mailed in October 2008. The panel issued the religious and demographic report last month. Polls asking similar questions about views on salvation have provided a wide range of results. A 2005 national survey funded by Baylor University found that 53 percent of the 1,721 adults who were polled agreed with the statement,
“Many religions lead to salvation,” and another 19 percent said “My religion is the one true faith that leads to salvation.” A 2007 poll by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life found that 70 percent of Americans with a religious affiliation believe many religions can lead to eternal life. Another study found that evangelical Christians may adhere to a much stricter interpretation of salvation. The 2008 report by Lifeway, the publishing and research arm of the Southern Baptist Convention, found that 75 percent of Protestants who hold “evangelical beliefs” strongly disagreed with the statement, “If a person is sincerely seeking God, he or she can obtain eternal life through religions other than Christianity.” The Rev. Dirk Ficca, a Presbyterian minister in Chicago, said a majority of Presbyterians feel that “the God they know in Jesus” can bring salvation to nonChristians. “I’m a Christian. And so I can’t think about God or about the nature of salvation apart from Jesus of Nazareth,” said Ficca, executive director of the Chicago-based Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions. But “that God I know in Jesus, I find at work in people who aren’t Christians.” “ ... Some other traditions would say, ‘No, God is only at work in us,’” said Ficca, who was not a part of the Presbyterian Panel’s study. “And that is a big divide in the Christian community.” Chang said the panel has
been asked the salvation question in the exact same way since 1996. He said in that time, there’s been virtually no change in the way Presbyterians have responded. The study broke down responses in four categories: members, elders, pastors and specialized clergy. The panel found that 45 percent of elders agree or strongly agree that “only followers of Jesus Christ can be saved,” while 31 percent disagreed or strongly disagreed. More pastors disagreed (45 percent) than agreed (35 percent) and a majority of specialized clergy (60 percent) disagree. Evangelicals and Pentecostals are more likely to claim they have had a “personal experience with a divine kind of healing” than Presbyterians, which may help explain the Presbyterian church’s divide on beliefs about salvation, said Candy Gunther Brown, a religious studies professor at Indiana University in Bloomington. “They don’t generally tend to expect in Presbyterian churches that there’s going to be a miraculous response to that prayer,” Brown said. “And I think that does get related to theological questions about salvation.” Questionnaires were mailed in the Presbyterian study and recipients could choose not to respond. The report says 59 percent of members and 79 percent of elders responded. Response figures for pastors and specialized clergy were not available separately, but the study said together, ministers had a response rate of 70 percent.
Some Presbyterians accept the idea of other paths to God.
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Page 12 • Reporter
News
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Snow slams Mid-Atlantic, aims to the North
WASHINGTON (AP) — Plows that have been rolling around the clock for days in the nation’s capital, Philadelphia and Baltimore won’t be heading for the garage any time soon as a second major storm in a week moved into the snowbound region Wednesday. Snow was falling from northern Virginia to Connecticut by early Wednesday. The storm started in the Midwest, where it was blamed for three traffic accident deaths in Michigan on Tuesday. Along the East coast, thousands of workers were scrambling to plow and salt roads. Maryland officials said salt supplies used by road crews were dwindling in some parts of the state. A spokesman for Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation said drivers’ shifts were running as long as 16 hours. “It can be exhausting, mentally and physically,” said Jerry Graham, a state plow truck driver in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh County. Areas that dodged last week’s storm, which buried some areas in nearly 3 feet of snow, won’t be as lucky this time around. Airports in the New York City area joined their counterparts farther south in canceling many flights, while the city’s 1.1 million school children had a rare snow day Wednesday, only the third in six years. As much as a foot was expected there.
A forecast of at least that much new snow wasn’t welcome in Washington and Philadelphia, which were hit hard by a blizzard over the weekend. Each needs about 9 more inches to give the cities their snowiest winters since 1884, the first year records were kept. “It’s hard to find anything in the history books of these types of storms back-to-back,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Stephen Konarik. Michael Giambattista, 56, a truck driver from Elizabeth, Pa., had been without power since Friday and was staying at a Red Cross shelter near his home with his girlfriend and 13-year-old son. “I’ve never been without power like this,” said Giambattista, who was trying to help keep spirits up among the more than 50 people at the shelter. “Mother Nature, you can’t battle her. She’s going to win.” The storms have kept some workers and students home for the better part of a week. About 230,000 federal workers in Washington have been off since Friday afternoon, when the first storm began. The U.S. House announced it was scrapping the rest of its workweek. Several hearings and meetings in Congress and federal agencies were postponed, including one planned
to address Toyota’s massive recalls. “It’s embarrassing that the world’s largest superpower closes from a few feet of snow,” said Alex Krause, 23, of Los Angeles, who was stranded in Washington and visiting the National Mall. “The Kremlin must be laughing.” But the effects of the federal government’s closure were negligible since about 85 percent of federal employees work outside the Washington region. An IRS spokeswoman said tax returns should not be affected. Thousands remained without
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power from the last storm in parts of western Pennsylvania, Maryland and other areas. Utilities said deep snow was hindering some crews trying to fix damaged power lines even before Tuesday’s storm arrived. Their task could grow even more difficult with new snowfall and winds gusting up to 50 mph that create blizzard conditions in the Mid-Atlantic. The Washington area was expected to get a foot or more of snow, while Baltimore and Philadelphia could each get as
many as 20 inches. Most flights were canceled at Philadelphia’s airport after 8 p.m. Tuesday, and Washington’s airports had halted all but a few flights. Continental Airlines canceled all 400 of its Wednesday flights at Newark Liberty Airport, as well as several hundred more regional flights on affiliate airlines. U.S. Airways and Continental also canceled most flights at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.
reporter-sports@mnsu.edu
Sports Thursday, February 11, 2010
(507) 389-5227 MEN’S BASKETBALL
MSU could clinch NSIC over weekend KYLE RATKE
sports editor
Red, white & Blues
photo illustration by tyler buckentine
St. Louis Blues forward David Backes is the first-ever MSU hockey player to represent the United States in the Olympics TYLER BUCKENTINE | staff writer
Steve Backes remembers when he took a piece of chalk and drew a rectangle on the brick wall in his basement. The rectangle portrayed a net and his son, David, laced up a pair of roller blades and spent hours shooting hockey pucks at the chalk on the wall. David was an ordinary kid growing up playing hockey in the north suburbs of the Twin Cities who didn’t expect to be where he is today. While playing for Spring Lake Park High School, he was just hoping for a chance to play at the collegiate level. He made it and played three seasons at Minnesota State where he anticipated playing professionally. He’s currently a second-line right-winger for the NHL’s St. Louis Blues. But an early phone call on New Years Day informed David Backes that he would play on
a level that can’t be topped in his career. Team USA General Manager Brian Burke was on the other end of the line to tell Backes he made the United States roster for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games Feb. 12-28 in Vancouver. “It’s an honor to play and a privilege to play for your country,” said Backes, who becomes the first MSU hockey player to represent the United States in the Olympics after his career as a Maverick. “It’s a dream come true and a once-in-alifetime opportunity. “I’ve been dreaming about (playing in the Olympics) since I was little but the idea of it ever becoming a reality was not even close until about a year ago.” The news still hasn’t sunk in for Dad, who will be in Vancouver next week with his wife, daughter and son-in-law. Steve didn’t project his son as
a future Olympic prospect when he drew that chalk net on the wall. But now his son is just days from heading up to Vancouver to play with the world’s best, starting with a preliminary game against Switzerland at 2 p.m., Tuesday. The U.S. plays another matinee two days later against Norway before taking on the consensus favorite, Canada, Sunday night. For David, who has played for Team USA three times in the IIHF World Championships, nothing compares to this. “It’s a bigger accomplishment personally to be on the Olympic stage,” Backes said. “Hopefully we go there not just represent the country but make everyone proud and bring home some hardware.”
SLP to STL and everything in between Backes scored 112 points (4666—112) in his last two seasons at SLPHS. That earned him a spot on a couple USHL rosters — Chicago and Lincoln (Neb.) — and a scholarship at MSU. He finished his two-year stint in junior hockey 75-89—164 through 119 games and was selected 62nd overall by the Blues in 2003 NHL Draft. That’s when his time in Mankato began. Backes — an All-WCHA Rookie Team pick in 2004 — led the Mavericks in goals (17), assists (23) and points (40) his sophomore season and as a junior he had a team-high 29 assists and tied for the lead in points with 42. He finished his threeyear career in Mankato with 46 goals, 73 assists and 119 points. He missed just one game in three
Backes / page 16
The upcoming weekend is likely the most important weekend the Minnesota State men’s basketball team has had all season. If the Mavericks can sweep this weekend — over Concordia St. Paul and St. Cloud State — they will clinch the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. “It’s huge, especially with the new conference,” said junior guard Joe Drapcho of winning the NSIC. The Mavericks joined the conference last season. “That was our main goal last season and we came up short. It was a main goal Joe Drapcho of ours at the beginning of this year.” Facing Concordia-St. Paul (12-10, 9-6 NSIC) and St. Cloud State (18-4, 11-3 NSIC ... Second in conference), will be a change-up for the Mavericks as they played the bottom feeders of the NSIC, Minnesota-Crookston and MSUMoorhead. “Every conference game is tough — especially on the road” Drapcho said. “It will be more of a challenge for us, but we know what we have to do.” The Mavericks sat tight this last week at No. 4 in the nation and No. 2 in the region, with only Mesa State leading the Mavericks in the region. This may look awkward being Mesa State is ranked behind the Mavericks in the national polls at No. 9 in the nation. “It’s a little odd, but it just shows how the national rankings mean nothing,” Drapcho said. “The only thing that matters is regional rankings. I would much rather be first in the region than first in the nation.” With a victory on Friday, the Mavericks will have won their
Men’s hoops / page 16
NINA TIKKINEN AND THE FINNISH NATIONAL TEAM PAGE 15
Page 14 • Reporter
Sports
Thursday, February 11, 2010T
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
WRESTLING
DEREK WEHRWEIN
from UNO loss
Mavericks hope to keep NSIC tourney MSU tries to hopes alive on the road this weekend bounce back
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL School Conf. OVR (22) Concordia 12-3 18-4 Wayne State 10-4 17-4 Augustana 10-4 16-5 MSU-Moorhead 10-5 16-6 UMD-Duluth 9-6 14-8 Winona State 9-6 14-8 SW-Minnesota State 8-7 14-8 MAVERICKS 8-7 13-9 Northern State 8-7 12-10 Bemidji State 6-9 12-10 Minnesota-Crookston 6-9 8-13 Mary 5-10 9-13 St. Cloud State 3-12 8-14 Upper Iowa 0-15 2-20
MEN’S BASKETBALL School Conf. OVR (4) MAVERICKS 14-1 21-1 St. Cloud State 12-3 18-4 (24) Augustana 10-4 17-4 Winona State 10-5 16-6 Mary 9-6 13-9 Concordia- St. Paul 9-6 12-10 SW Minnesota State 8-7 13-8 Northern State 7-8 11-11 Upper Iowa 7-8 10-12 Wayne State 6-8 9-12 Bemidji State 4-11 7-14 Minnesota-Duluth 4-11 7-15 MSU-Moorhead 4-11 7-15 Minnesota-Crookston 0-15 3-18
MEN’S HOCKEY School (7) UMD (4) St. Cloud State (2) Denver (3) Wisconsin (9) Colorado College
(11) North Dakota Minnesota Alaska-Anchorage MAVERICKS Michigan Tech
WCHA 14-7-1 13-6-3 12-4-4 11-6-3 11-8-3 8-9-3 8-10-2 8-14-2 6-13-1 4-18-0
PAT DELANEY
staff writer The Minnesota State wrestling team will hit the road this weekend when they travel to Aberdeen, SD to compete with Northern State. The Mavericks want to finish their NSIC schedule strong with only three duals remaining before the postseason. Fourth-place MSU will likely not have a chance to defend their conference title this year, especially with Upper Iowa still undefeated in conference. They will dan moen • msu reporter still have the Ali Wilkinson (42), leads all Maverick freshmen in scoring with seven chance to points per contest. improve their positioning “Lightning” to decide who would teams in the Northern Sun Interwith strong have to do chores around their collegiate Conference. Brady Wilson performances family farm. St. Cloud State, however, has Ali and the rest of the Maverstruggled since its victory at MSU, starting with Northern State on Friday. icks will visit Concordia Univerfalling to 8-14 (3-12). The Mavericks are comsity at 6 p.m. Friday and St. Cloud Wilkinson indicated the ing off a loss to No. 1 ranked State at 4 p.m. Saturday. MSU Mavericks need to take the same University of Nebraska at (13-9, 8-7) hosted both teams at approach to both teams, however, Omaha. MSU once again got Bresnan Arena only a few weeks regardless of record. the performances they needed ago, upsetting Concordia 79-76 “We’re expecting to play our from No. 1 ranked heavybefore falling 63-62 to St. Cloud best,” she said. weight Brady Wilson, who State. defeated second-ranked Elijah Concordia was ranked No. 20 Notes: ESPN Magazine has Madison for the third time this in the nation prior to the first meet- named senior forward Liz Trauger season. Sixth-ranked Andy ing and enters Friday’s matchup to its All-District V Second Team. ranked No. 22 in the USA Today Athletes must maintain a 3.3 grade Forstner also came through at ESPN Division II Poll. With an point average to be eligible for the the 125-pound weight class, defeating second-ranked Ter18-4 overall record and 12-3 conteams, which are voted on by the ference record, the Golden Bears College Sports Information Direc- rell McKinney and proving remain one of the most imposing tors of America.
Wrestling / page 16
PTS 29 29 28 25 25 19 18 18 13 8
WOMEN’S HOCKEY School
staff writer The transition from high school to college basketball wasn’t the easiest for Ali Wilkinson. “At the beginning of the season I was so confused,” the Minnesota State freshman forward said. “I felt like a deer in the headlights.” No longer, though. On Saturday the 6-foot Wilkinson displayed just how comfortable she’s become, scoring 14 points and grabbing eight rebounds to help the MSU women’s basketball team to an important victory over Minnesota State-Moorhead. The Blue Mounds, Wis., native, who is averaging 7 points and 5.6 rebounds through 22 games, has already impressed coach Pam Gohl with her physical and mental capabilities. “She’s going to be a special player,” Gohl said after Saturday’s victory. “She’s only a freshman and she just does so many little things. She’s got a soft touch around the basket, she’s got the ups and she has a good sense of where to be on defense and she can sense where the next pass is going. Those are great instincts to have.” Perhaps those instincts run in the Wilkinson family. Ali’s dad and four older brothers all enjoyed basketball, and one brother went on to play at Wisconsin and today plays professionally in Istanbul. Growing up, Ali and her siblings would compete against each other in games such as “Horse” and
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Thursday, February 11, 2010
Sports
Reporter • Page 15
NINA TIKKINEN
Not just playing for a team, but a country
Junior Nina Tikkinen will become first current Maverick to play in Olympics LEE HANDEL
staff writer While few athletes achieve the lofty goals they set for themselves in childhood, a select group of individuals make it to the pinnacle of their sport and end up representing things bigger than themselves. Nina Tikkinen, a junior forward on the Minnesota State women’s hockey team and native of Finland, has earned the privilege of representing her entire country in the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver. She will also forever hold the distinction of being the first current Maverick athlete to appear in a Summer or Winter Olympic Games. “I am very honored to wear a Finnish jersey in the Olympics. It is definitely a dream come true,” said Tikkinen. “It’s been my dream for a long time — over a decade. I cannot even describe how amazing it feels.” Growing up in Salo, Finland, Tikkinen began playing hockey at the age of six with some boys who lived next door. She obviously had a knack for the sport, joining a boy’s club team with her brother and playing on the same team as him for about five years. This is when Tikkinen realized her love for hockey. “There are so many different things to work on and practice. I also like the physical part of hockey,” Tikkinen said. “The reason I still play hockey is because I never get tired of playing
it. After the games, when I am feeling beat up, I love the feeling that I have given all I can.” Before coming to MSU, Tikkinen played on three club teams in Finland. The most successful of these teams was Kärpät Oulu, where she helped the team to a national silver medal twice. Tikkinen gives a lot of credit to that team for where she is now. “The coach from Kärpät, Samppa Jaakkola, made me some workout programs. Without him I would not be here,” she said. Tikkinen has already experienced her fair share of success outside of MSU and the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, winning two bronze medals with the Finnish National Team at the 2008 and 2009 World Championships. However, she points to one event as being responsible for all that she has been able to accomplish. “I was chosen as the Rookie of the Year in the Finnish Women’s National Hockey League in 2005. That is when the [Finnish] National Team coaches realized my skills and invited me to the women’s national team camp,” Tikkinen said. “I think that is why it is so special to me.” MSU has played a big role in Tikkinen’s development as a hockey player, but it has also helped her develop as a student. The economics major has been honored as a WCHA Scholar-Athlete and named to the All-WCHA Academic Team.
Tikkinen won two bronze medals with the Finnish National Team in 2008 and 2009.
Tikkinen is glad she chose to attend MSU instead of MinnesotaDuluth and has no regrets. “My coaches from home preferred MSU. Coach [Jeff] Vizenor also had a great influence on my choice. He seemed like a great person and coach,” Tikkinen said. “The girls are also fun to be around. Even though we haven’t been doing that well this year, we still give our best in the games and don’t give up. My time here at MSU has been very important and I am sure that I wouldn’t be on the Olympic team without MSU.” The WCHA has also aided in Tikkinen’s development, as she credits the tough style of play and the amount of contact for helping her have success on the Finnish National Team. She also says the WCHA has prepared
her well for the European style of hockey because “it is faster and has more skilled players.” Maverick head coach Eric Means was not surprised by Tikkinen’s selection to Team Finland. “Nina is a very good skater with a very high hockey IQ and her absence hurts,” said Means. One thing that Tikkinen won’t have to do is become familiar with her “new teammates” with Finland. “I know them very well; I have played with them on the National Team for over five years, so we are all great friends,” she said. Just because Tikkinen is familiar with her team does not mean she isn’t a little nervous. “I’ve never been in the Olympics before so I really don’t
MSU Athletics • Sports Pix
know what to expect, but I am looking forward to playing some great games in front of a huge audience,” Tikkinen said. Now that the excitement of being selected to participate in the Olympics has worn off, Tikkinen and her teammates are ready to get out on the ice and accomplish their goals. “Our primary goal is to get a medal, but every Olympic athlete has a dream: the gold medal,” Tikkinen said. “My goal is to help my team to win. This year I have been working really hard to improve my shooting, so hopefully it will show with some goals. I really hope I am able to perform well and have the best games of my career.”
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Page 16 • Reporter
Sports
WRESTLING Last NSIC win for Northern State came nearly a month continued from 14 ago that Forstner is peaking at the right time. However, the Mavericks could not find themselves on the winning side in any other match. UNO is ranked at every weight class and it proved why for most of the dual. Despite their best efforts, the Mavericks showed they are not on the same level as UNO. “I think we gave Omaha too much respect,” said Wilson. “Guys were looking at all their guys who were highly ranked and didn’t give themselves enough respect that they could beat them. I think we just need to change our attitude a little bit.” This is not the time of year to dwell on a loss. The Mavericks were back to work this week preparing for the last two weeks of the regular season. MSU hasn’t had any matches since UNO, giving them the full week to prepare. Head coach Jim Makovsky says having the extra practice can benefit his guys. “I believe it to be true that our practice room is like a lab in the classroom and a match is like a test,” Makovsky said. “The whole season is a test of your endurance and discipline.” While Makovsky has preached to his team all season about going into each match the same way, the Mavericks should have an easier time against Northern State. The Wolves have four wins on the season and only one in conference which occurred nearly a
month ago. They also have been dealing with multiple injuries, forcing inexperienced wrestlers to step up in key spots. The Mavericks can’t afford to look past Northern State, but there is no reason why they shouldn’t dominate nearly every match. “It’s our third long road trip so guys should be used to it now,” Wilson said. “Going out and getting a win against Northern State will definitely give us momentum and should set up a big meet against St. Cloud at home.” St. Cloud State is the last ranked opponent the Mavericks will face during the regular season, meaning any added confidence the Mavericks can gain against Northern State will be very important. At this point, the Mavericks are trying to get as many wrestlers into the top-four of the conference, which is the spot where wreslters must be if they want a chance to compete in regionals. The Mavericks were able to get 10 wrestlers into regionals last season and would want nothing more then to do it again this season. For this to happen, MSU can’t afford any minor bumps in the road — especially against Northern State. The Mavericks will travel to Northern State and are scheduled to wrestle at 7 p.m. Friday.
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MEN’S HOOPS continued from 13 1,150th in school history. The big challenge for MSU will likely be Saturday, though. The Mavericks defeated St. Cloud State in Mankato on Jan. 16 by a score of 88-76. A big factor in the game will be whether or not senior center Travis Nelson can stop the Huskies’ senior center Matt Schneck. Schneck plays a more physical style of ball and is averaging 17.6 points per game, along with 10.4 rebounds. Drapcho doesn’t envision this being a problem. “We know what we are going to get from him [Neslon],” Drapcho said. “He will get rebounds and points. The biggest thing will be stopping Schneck from having a big night.” With two victories, the Mavericks will not only clinch the conference, but could jump up to the No. 1 spot in the region — even if Mesa State doesn’t lose. Two more wins over teams with records over .500 would improve the Mavericks wins over top teams in the NSIC. The 21-1 Mavericks lone loss came to Augustana in Sioux Falls at the beginning of January. “I don’t think any loss is a good loss,” Drapcho said. “But it was a wake up call and exposed some weaknesses that I think we have improved since then.” The Mavericks tip off Friday at 8 p.m. against ConcordiaSt. Paul and 6 p.m. against St. Cloud State. Both games are on the road.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
BACKES “ ... That town [Mankato] is near and dear to my heart ” continued from 13
seasons and was a second-team Punching out the rumors All-American selection in 2006. According to Backes, it’s “David has a rare only coincidence that he picked combination,” said MSU coach on-ice fights with three opponents Troy Jutting. who happen to be Canadian “To be a big kid and also to Olympians. He said Blues TV have the skill levels he has is rare. announcer Darren Pang created Then you combine the skill level the buzz. with his intelligence, you knew he “They just happen to be wasn’t just going to be an NHL the guy with the puck and I’m player, but a very good NHL in their face,” said Backes, player.” who has fought 14 NHL fights St. Louis according to Team USa schedule Hockeyfights. signed Backes after his junior com. “I’ll switzerland season and sacrifice 2 p.m., Feb. 16 on USA assigned him myself for five Norway to the AHL’s minutes any 2 p.m., Feb. 18 on USA Peoria (Ill.) time as long Rivermen. The Canada as I can keep Blue called him 6:40 p.m., Feb. 21 on MSNBC those guys off up to the NHL their game.” midway through *Rest of schedule to be Backes the 2006-07 and announced mixed it he’s been there up with ever since. Last season, he was Chicago’s Jonathan Toews (Jan. two goals shy of the team lead 2), Anaheim’s Cory Perry (Jan. with 31 and finished second on 7) and Columbus’ Rick Nash the team in points with 52. (Jan. 12) after Canada released “We have followed David and its roster Jan. 1. Many thought all of our former players very Backes was fighting to send the closely,” Jutting said. “We stay in Canadians a message. touch with them pretty regularly. They have given back to the Still connected to Kato program and we like to help them Backes said he gets back anyway we can.” to Mankato usually every Backes is playing well right summer for a wedding or a golf now with two goals and three tournament here and there. assists through five games in “The town is near and dear to February. He had a pair of assists my heart,” said Backes, who was in Wednesday’s win against an Electrical Engineering major at Detroit. The Blues play at home MSU. “I told my wife I’d like to Friday and Saturday before the settle down there when I’m done NHL officially goes on break with hockey.” Monday. Staff writer Pat Delaney also contributed to this story.
reporter-arts@mnsu.edu
Variety Thursday, February 11, 2010
(507) 389-5157
Trampled By Turtles Making the ride ‘Palomino’ into case for relationships Buster’s Friday SAM CAMPBELL
photo courtesy of Press Here Publicity Trampled By Turtles are releasing a new album — ‘Palomino’ — in April, playing Buster’s Mankato Friday night and might just be finding the perfect balance between their past and presents. NATE BRENNAN
variety editor
Five dudes who grew up playing punk rock in Duluth, Minn. do not bring to mind images of Neil Young or other folk luminaries. Hell, bluegrass fans would probably cite Steve Martin before they embraced a bunch of Northerners trying to play their favorite tunes. Yet, Trampled By Turtles is unquestionably a folksy bluegrass band, one that would make even those hardcore Appalachians from “Deliverance” hop onto the dancefloor and do a jig. Formed in 2003, Trampled By Turtles (also known as TBT) began as a side project, something smaller and quieter the members could do to bide the time while not with their own rock n’ roll outfits. “When we started we were doing more of a traditional thing for fun,” said guitarist and lead vocalist Dave
Simonett. “It sounded like a bunch of Northern guys playing Southern music.” But as the new band became the members’ focus in music, they decided putting their original influences into this new style of instrumentation would be interesting. Years later, Trampled By Turtles has found a way to balance their past and present musical stylings by cultivating its rock and punk influences into a folk/bluegrass pattern. “We all have a pretty wired interest in music that includes a lot of heavier stuff,” Simonett said. “As far as writing the songs goes, it’s real fun to transfer that raw energy into this musical form.” This feat is all the more apparent on the band’s upcoming album, “Palomino,” due out April 13. Upon listening to an advance copy of the album, “Palomino” features furious
finger-picking banjo solos and decorative violin accompaniments air out the raw emotion of the punk rock music they grew up playing. “We tried to do more live recording, just have everyone sit in a circle and play instead of focusing on making it have a polished energy,” Simonett said. In lieu of talking down to its listener with simplistic and vague references to backwoods staples, the band invites the listener to join them on a more personal journey — a stroll through the airy Minnesota Northwoods of Duluth. Simonett’s twang-tinged, nasally narrative reflects the loneliness of the everyman through the voice of a surprising folk mastermind: “all of us lonely… it ain’t a sin; want something better than the shape we’re in.” “[The stories we tell] are a
TBT / page 18
staff writer Everyone knows the stereotype of the single life being easier; no one to worry about, no one to get mad at, no one to care for, everything is about you. There are virtually no risks, but when compared with relationships, hardly any gains. Sure those moments of dating when you are flirting and wordsmith-ing your way into a phone number can be exciting, but everyone knows that young relationships are frustrating. You haven’t become a full grown adult until you have experienced the sheer maddening effort of understanding a convoluted text message. And with Facebook, Twitter and online dating, asking to see someone in person has become some type of needy request saved for creepers and clingy psychopaths. Needless to say, the “free bird” persona of being single is overrated. “Understanding the nature of relationships has become more complex,” said Minnesota State student Matthew Ruppert, “You can’t read anyone’s emotions or body language on social networking sites.” The trait that best separates being single from being in a relationship is that it is more rewarding. From emotional
support to more Christmas presents, a long-term relationship is overwhelmingly more giving than a one-nighter and an unpaid bar tab. No one says this better than recent MSU graduate Kera Graves. “[I get] sex all the time. I can get it whenever I want … and he pays my tax debt.” Sure couples might not try as hard to please each other as they once did, but lets honest, who would want to? The fact of the matter is, knowing that you can take that special someone to Arby’s for a couple of premium roast beef sandwiches in nothing but sweatpants and a Ninja Turtles T-shirt is a beautiful thing. “Things get much more relaxed [in a relationship],” said Mankato resident James Haag, “like just the other day when my girlfriend began texting while we were in the middle of messing around.” Single or not, when it comes down to it, everyone wants someone. Whether you just need someone to be there or someone to clean your room, anyone you can share life experiences with is a valuable thing. As Alexander Supertramp said in “Into the Wild,””Happiness is only real when shared.”
VALENTINE’S DAY MOVIES AND THE REPORTER’S 2ND ANNUAL V-DAY MIXTAPE pages 20-21
Page 18 • Reporter
TRAMPLED BY TURTLES “We all have a pretty wired interest in music that includes a lot of heavier stuff,” Simonett said. “It’s real fun to transfer that raw energy into this musical form.” continued from 17 little different in the fact that we’re growing up in a different time and place compared to [the originators of bluegrass],” Simonett said. “But the focuses are the same — love, loss, pain, happiness. As a musician you have to get across real human emotion through the lens of where you are and how you grew up.” Trampled By Turtles will perform at Buster’s Bar in Mankato Friday at 9 p.m. with local jam band aficionados Useful Jenkins. Simonett said he and the band have quite a history in town. “I’ve been playing in Mankato since I was 17,” Simonett said. “I learned to play the guitar from friends in town and the first time I got up on stage was at the Sugar Room. Trampled By Turtles has been playing in Mankato going on seven years now.”
Variety
Thursday, February 11, 2010T
Mayer’s ‘stupid mouth’ gets him in hot water with Playboy NEW YORK (AP) — John Mayer is apologizing for his mouth. The Grammy-winner took to his Twitter page to make amends for his latest inflammatory comments — this time, in the March edition of Playboy. In it, he calls former girlfriend Jessica Simpson "sexual napalm" and says Jennifer Aniston is a technophobe who wishes she could go back to her career prime in 1998. He also uses the N-word. On Twitter Wednesday afternoon, he apologized for the racial epithet and said he has to stop "trying to be so raw in interviews." "It started as an attempt to not let the waves of criticism get to me, but it's gotten out of hand and I've created somewhat of a monster," Mayer tweeted. "I wanted to be a blues guitar player. And a singer. And a songwriter. Not a shock jock. I don't have the stomach for it." There were plenty who didn't have the stomach for his remarks in Playboy, in which he talked about Simpson's sexuality, his problems with Aniston, his love of porn, why he doesn't date black women and being beloved by the black community. "Someone asked me the other day, 'What does it feel like now to have a hood pass?' And by the way, it's sort of a contradiction in terms, because if you really had a hood pass, you could call
it a nigger pass,'" he said, then added: "But I said, 'I can't really have a hood pass. I've never walked into a restaurant, asked for a table and been told, 'We're full.'" Mayer said he should have never have used the N-word in any context and will never say it again. "And it's such a shame that I did because the point I was trying to make was in the exact opposite spirit of the word itself. It was arrogant of me to think I could intellectualize using it, because I realize that there's no intellectualizing a word that is so emotionally charged," he said. The racial comments were hardly the only explosive comments in the interview. He said he still loved Aniston, but then noting their age difference (she just turned 41), he said: "I can't change the fact that I need to be 32." He also said she didn't appreciate new technology: "The brunt of her success came before TMZ and Twitter. I think she's still hoping it goes back to 1998. She saw my involvement in technology as courting distraction. And I always said, 'These are the new rules,'" he said. Of Simpson, he talked about her sexual ability, and said: "That girl, for me, is a drug ... That girl is like crack cocaine to me." In the interview, he also explained why he didn't date black
web photo John Mayer, known for his comedic antics as much as his music, apologized recently for comments that were considered in bad taste.
women, comparing his genitals to "a white supremacist." Mayer — known for his loose tongue — has made a habit out of outlandish comments. Last
month, he gave an interview with Rolling Stone where he talked openly about his love life, including sex with other women — and himself.
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Variety
Reporter • Page 19
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him to have to shave it off. “The website is mostly true. For a long time it needed to be updated and my record label tried to convince me to update it,” Parr said. “I’m not really that into computers, but one thing they asked me to do was to update current events. It’s about me, so I started writing them myself, and a lot of what I write is fact,” Parr said. Parr is apart of three different record labels currently — one in Minneapolis called Tree House records, another in Ireland and another in
Australia, where Parr recently returned from touring. “It was very interesting touring there. I found that in Australia, people consider what they call folk music, we would call pop music,” Parr said. Parr is known for his appearances on Prairie Home Companion as well as being the headliner at the Resophonic Guitar Festival in Minneapolis. Parr is releasing a limited edition instrumental record in December. It will be in the vinyl format. Parr has previously released 6 albums.
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Parr, who is now touring the Midwest, looks forword to playing at MSU, though this is not his first time performing in Mankato. “I have played quite a bit at the sugar room where I had a monthly show. Mankato is quite unique and I usually have a very captivated audience. A lot of people showed up at my shows it was great,” Parr said. Parr will perform Sunday at 7:30 p.m. in Halling Recital Hall in the performing arts center.
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web photo Duluth folk and bluegrass veteran Charlie Parr will perform at the Minnesota State campus Sunday night.
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music is my thing and I would rather perform than watch a football game,” Parr said. Parr is truly humble when it comes to talking about himself as a performer even saying “I’m not sure that I even have musical talent” and paid homage to those folk artists who came before him and inspired him. Growing up, it was very rare for Parr to find friends who had the same passion for folk music that he did. He explained that he yearned to have someone to understand his love of this classic form of music. “I couldn’t find anyone who listened to the records I did so I tried and tried to play. I didn’t take any lessons I just made myself learn how to play the guitar,” Parr said. “In my late teens and early 20s, playing guitar was all I thought about.” Parr explained that his father has a lot to do with his love for folk music. As a child his father would often play folk, blues and country records rather then just watching TV. Because of this Parr was inspired to sing and play the guitar. “My dad would put old speakers in the garage and we would sit and listen to folk records. Folk music made me feel the way nothing else has,” Parr said. The methodology and inspiration for his folk songwriting can be found on his website, which chronicles anectodal stories of his life. His latest update included a story from his trip to a Duluth bank last week, where he tried to barter washers for money with a bank teller while the teller’s daughter stuck her lollipop in his beard, causing
www.lcmcrossroads.com
ASHLEY JOHANSEN
staff writer Folk music seemed to have its uprising in the ’60s with artists like Bob Dylan and Spider John Koener telling stories about people and preaching the words of the youth generation. After a while it seemed folk had died out, but within the past decade or so, there has been a resurgence of the art form all over the U.S., and especially in Minnesota. “There is a huge amount of music in Minnesota and I am inspired by a lot of the folk and bluegrass artists like Minnesota Blue Grass and the Brass Kings. It’s amazing what’s happening right now in music,” said Charlie Parr, a Minnesota folk musician who will be gracing Minnesota State with a performance on Sunday. The acoustic uprising in Minnesota and around the U.S. is really an amazement to Parr, who explained that after all of the work he has put into learning and loving folk music, it is a treat that it is starting to get noticed once again. Parr, who is incredibly dedicated to his music, had explained that music was a healthy obsession for him growing up. It seems that obsession is still alive and well, something evident in how Parr spent his time during the Super Bowl, which became the highest-rated program ever this year. Parr was not at a party or hovered around the television and guacamole dip like most of America. Instead, he was sitting in his van outside of a venue in St. Paul, waiting to perform. “I’m not really into sports,
Page 20 • Reporter
1. Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros “Home”: “[Her:] Alabama,
Arkansas, I do love my ma and pa, not the way that I do love you. [Him:] Holy, Moley, me, oh my, you’re the apple of my eye, girl I’ve never loved one like you. [Her:] Man oh man you’re my best friend, I scream it to the nothingness, there ain’t nothing that I need. [Him:] Well, hot and heavy, pumpkin pie, chocolate candy, Jesus Christ, ain’t nothing please me more than you. [Both:] Ahh Home. Let me come home Home is wherever I’m with you...”
2. Etta James - “At Last”: “At last, my love has
come along, my lonely days are over, and life is like a song, oh, yeah, at last, the skies above are blue, my heart was wrapped up in clovers, the night I looked at you...”
3. The Beatles - “Can’t Buy Me Love”: “Say you
don’t need no diamond ring and I’ll be satisfied, tell me that you want the kind of thing that money just can’t buy , I don’t care too much for money, money can’t buy me love..”
Variety
Thursday, February 11, 2010T
The Reporter’s V-Day mixtape volume two 4. The Good Life “Album of the Year”:
We’d make love in the afternoons to Chelsea Girls and Bachelor No. 2, I’d play for her some songs I wrote, she’d joke and say I’m shooting through the roof, I’d say, ‘They’re all for you, dear, I’ll write the album of the year.’”
5. The Hush Sound “We Intertwined”: “In a
field outside of town we could always be alone, carry a blanket maybe a basket - and that’s it, innocence was the key, I was locked up never free, until you turned me, like vines we intertwined, carelessly growing up and growing old, life was on our tongues, and it tasted heavenly, so good...”
6. Blood On The Wall “I’d Like To Take You Out Tonight”: “When you dress up, don’t forget that look on your face, you know it sends me into space, baby baby, come home...”
7. Bright Eyes - “The First Day Of My Life”: “Yours is the first face that I saw, I think I was blind before I met you, now, I don’t know where I am, I don’t know where I’ve been, but I know where I wat to go...”
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8. T.A.T.U.: “I’m in serious
shit, I feel totally lost, if I’m asking for help it’s only because, being with you has opened my eyes, could I ever believe such a perfect surprise? I keep asking myself, wondering how, I keep closing my eyes but I can’t block you out, wanna fly to a place where it’s just you and me, nobody else so we can be free...”
9. MC5 - “Let Me Try”: 10. The Replacements “I’ll be your singer, you’ll be my - “I Will Dare”: “Oh, meet
song, I’ll lay you down softly, I’ll love you long, I’ll be there, to keep you satisfied, if you’ll only let me try...”
me anyplace or anywhere or anytime, now, I don’t care, meet me tonight, if you will dare, I will dare...”
compiled by NATE BRENNAN | variety editor
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Thursday, February 11, 2010
Colbert headed to Winter Olympics
NEW YORK (AP) — Like many of the athletes vying for gold in Vancouver, Stephen Colbert's Olympic training has been eventful. He has already auditioned for the U.S. bobsled, skating and curling teams. He has angered a sizable portion of Canada. And he has landed on the cover of Sports Illustrated's Olympic preview. Now, he's preparing for the big event. While "The Colbert Report" is in repeats next week, the comedian will be in Vancouver, British Columbia, for the first week of the Olympics. He'll be there recording a wealth of material for his show (to air beginning Feb. 22), attending events, conducting interviews and doing a kind of half-show from a stage set up outside the Olympic center. "We'll bring snow because I don't think Vancouver has any," he said in an interview, taking a swipe at the city's sometimes watery precipitation. Just as he has inserted himself into big events such as the 2008 election (during which he was briefly and illegitimately a candidate) and the Iraq war (he did a week of shows from Baghdad in 2009), Colbert has made himself a key figure for the XXI Olympic Games, which start Friday. When the U.S. Speedskating team lost its primary sponsor last fall (the Dutch bank DSB went bankrupt), the "Report" stepped in with a novel idea. The show's ardent fans had previously raised sizable amounts of money for charity, and the show suggested that the "Colbert Nation" could sponsor the skaters. Fan donations filled the vacancy by raising more than $300,000. “Colbert Nation” is branded on the team’s suits and Colbert has had an active relationship with the squad. The team has largely responded with gratitude. On his Comedy Central show, Colbert autographed the leg of speedskater Katherine Reutter, on her request. Robert Crowley, executive director of U.S. Speedskating, says Colbert has brought “great attention to our sport.” Apolo Anton Ohno has also applauded Colbert’s humor. “I think he’s funny,” Ohno said earlier. “Our country is kind of in need of some humor right now, and it’s all for a good cause.”
Variety
Reporter • Page 21
Unconventional love stories for your unconventional love Unique films that say ‘I Love You’ like no other JACOB BOHROD | staff writer
“Shakespeare in Love” (1998): Fans of period romance
look no further. This “behind the scenes” take on the immortal “Romeo and Juliet” is almost as loving as the English playwright’s most popular sap-story and will save you from a trip back to 10thgrade lit.
“Closer” (2004): If you want something more out of Valentine’s Day, say, for instance, to start anew, this film will surely throw you and your beau into disarray. A portrait of the ugly side of love, the film has the capability to stab any relationship in the back. Just make sure it doesn’t [incite any stabbing] in the literal sense.
“Love Actually” (2003):
Although set during Christmas fever, this film provides a handful of love snapshots that pack an emotional punch heavy enough to have you nuzzling closer to your significant other, mustering up the courage to spill your heart out in front of your crush, or both!
“Lars and the Real Girl” (2007): A good V-Day movie
with Ryan Gosling that isn’t “The Notebook”? Yes. This film is touching and genuine, and will make you jealous of a mannequin.
BUSTER'S
“Knocked Up” (2007): To
be sure, you will be re-watching this film for the ninth time, but there is nothing like it that so efficiently incites both love and fear in one bundle-of-joy.
“Dirty Dancing” (1987): Bom-chicka-wa-wa!
“Audition” (1999): You know
that feeling you get like there are pins in your stomach when you fall in love? Director Takashi Miike takes that feeling too literally in this spin on love. Let’s just say I wouldn’t watch this film based on Netflix’s misleading synopsis ...
FEBRUARY 16, 2010
FAT TUESDAY Bud Light Bottles 11am-11pm
PRIZES!
Bud Light Carnival Games 8pm-10pm
www.BustersBar.com Text "Busters" to 25827 for upcoming events! 1325 Madison Avenue Mankato
389-8999 YOUR FRIENDS LIVE HERE. HOW ABOUT YOU? www.highlandmankato.com 1340 Warren St., Mankato, MN 507.388.9351 $300
HIGHLAND HILLS CASH Apply this coupon to a new 12 month lease for an annual savings of $300
$300
One coupon per apartment, joint leases only. Offer applies to 3, 4, & 5 bdrm. apts. May not be combined with other offers. Offer expires Feb. 28, 2010.
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THREE HUNDRED DOLLARS
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Page 22 â&#x20AC;˘ Reporter
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(507) 389-1776
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DOWNTOWN MANK ATO Devine Towers. 4-5 Br units. $340/Br. Washer/Dryer/Fireplace/ Disposal/DW. Avail August 1st. Call Gary 952-451-5793. 3/4 WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR? www.collegetownmankato.com A community of your own. 4/29 WE’RE NOT YOUR AVERAGE slumlord. www.rentmsu.net. College houses available for rent. 4/29 THE TRAIN STOPS HERE! www. collegestationmankato.com. Free flat screen in every 5 bedroom. 4/29 RadRenter.com Find a place to rent or post free listings at RadRenter.com. TBA AVAILABLE AUGUST 1ST. F’s/M’s to share 5 Bedroom, 2 bath home, living room and den, large bedrooms with walk-in closets, hardwood floors, individual leases, C/A, W/D, All utilities paid including TV & Internet $375-$405. 3860236 or 381-7578. 2/28 FEMALES TO SHARE 5 Bedroom Victorian home in Historic Lincoln Park, 3 Baths, C/A, Off Street Parking, front & back porch. 330 Fulton $1775.00 plus utilities for whole house or individual leases upon request 507-380-0121 or 507-386-0236, 8-1. 2/25
5 or 4 or 3 or 2 or 1 BEDROOM houses/apartments available right now, some for next year. Many to choose from. Check out our web site www.ottoh.com owner/agent or call 507-340-3465. 4/29 Available August 1st. Near MSU on the bus route, big backyard! Heat and Water paid, washer/dryer, off street parking. It feels like home! 308 James Ave. $680/mo. Call 507-381-1723. 2/18 Large 2 Bedroom Apartment upstairs Duplex Available August 1st. Washer/ dryer hookups, big backyard and off street parking. 528 S. Fourth St. $500/mo. Call 507-381-1723. 2/18 Available 2 Bedroom Apartment main floor duplex available August 1st. Washer/dryer hookups, big backyard and off street parking. 528 S. Fourth St. $600/mo. Call 507-381-1723. 2/18 Available 08/01/2010: Newer 4 BR/2 Bath townhome ex; appl. incl; free parking; 1 blck from MSU. 1435/month. Call Shawn @ 382-2635/388-8428. 2/16 4 bedroom for four friends. Available 8-1-2010. New carpet & paint 8-1-09. Off street parking. Dishwasher. $310 per person plus utilities. Call Jeremy 507-351-5192. 2/23
1 BR Apt W. Mankato, quiet, appliances, $500/mo or $550/ mo with a small dog, hot water & electricity furnished. CA, NS, Internet, separate entrance. Available 3/1/10 507-340-7090. 2/25
Lost - 5 year old left his Nintendo DS Lite at the basketball game in the Taylor Center on Friday night, 1/29/10. If you found it and would like to make a little boy happy, please call Beth at 3891608. A reward will be given. 2/16
TEXTBOOKS BOUGHT & SOLD new and used, online buybacks. Buy, sell, rent at cheapbooks.com (260) 399-6111, espanol (212) 3801763, urdu/hindi/punjabi (713) 4294981, see site for other support lines. 2/16
FREE SHOTOKAN KARATE Classes offered M/T/TH. 6-8 pm. Dance room (HN 225) Beginners are welcome. Need not be a MSU student to join. For info call Brad @ (507) 388-5301. 4/22 Used Bookstore: All types of leisure reading, bring in Filling Station coffee from across the street receive $1 off book purcase with student I.D. Once Read, 629 S. Front, Mon-Sat, 10-5. 2/11
Live like a Queen in this 3,000 square foot house. Furnished shared living spaces includes leather furniture and a plasma TV. Hardwood floors, front and back porches, built in cupboards and character galore. Rooms starting at $370.00 plus utilities. Email for pictures today at Julie@halloweencostumes. com. 507-380-0121 or 507-3860236 Available 8-1. 2/25 F/ FEMALES TO SHARE 2 Bedroom Apartment in duplex with own Washer and Dryer $310.00 to $325.00 per room plus utilities, 128 South 5th Street 507-380-0121 or 507-3860236 Available 8-1. 2/25 F TO SHARE 2 BEDROOM OR 3 Bedroom Apt 1/2 block from MSU. C/A, W/D, Off street parking, Individual leases, $385.00 -$395.00 includes everything, utilities, TV & Internet. Available Aug 1st 3860236. 2/25 F’S TO SHARE 6 BEDROOM, 3 bath home, furnished family room and living room, C/A, W/D, Off street parking, Individual leases $385.00-$405.00 per room includes utilities, TV and Internet. Available August 1st or sooner 386-0236. 2/25
For Sale
Help Wanted
BARTENDERS WANTED! $250/ day potential. No experience necessary. Training available. Age 18+ OK. Call (800) 965-6520 Ext. 170. 4/29 ACTORS NEEDED TO READ For playwrights in Mankato. Free lunch. See: www.berWorkshop. com for details. 3/4 S T U D E N T PAY O U T S . C O M Paid Survey Takers needed in Mankato. 100% Free to join! Click on Survey. 3/25
Leadership Scholarship Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded for the 2010-2011 academic year. Scholarships will be award based on: • Leadership and Service Experience • Personal Statements • Recommendations Applications will be reviewd by MSSA Scholarship Committee. Applications available in CSU 280 • For more info visit: www.mnsu.edu/mssa
Deadline: March 15
Notices
Roommates Wanted YOU CAN’T GET ANY CLOSER F’s to share 5 bedroom 2 1/2 bath home 1/2 block from MSU at 232 Thayer, Large Bedrooms, Individual Leases, C/A, W/D, Off Street parking. All utilities paid including TV & Internet $395.00 to $420.00 per month Call 3860236. Available 8-1. 2/25 Glenwood Terrace M/ Roommate wanted to share 2 Bedroom apartment (6 month lease) call 507-387-1217. 2/25
$10-$11 to start
Renting for August 1
NOW HIRING
5 BEDROOM HOUSE
Direct Support Staff to help up to 4 individuals with developmental challenges in area group homes. Positions open include: - FT & PT 3p-10p - FT Awake Overnights - PT Sleep Overnights
2 blocks from campus, washer, dryer, central air, garage. $1495 + utilities.
Washer, dryer, garage. $1280 + utilities.
All positions include every other weekend.
MSSA
4 BEDROOM HOUSE
HAUGBECK SUPPORT SERVICES
3+ BEDROOM HOUSE
Washer, dryer, off-street parking. $995 + utilities.
Apply at 125 Madison Ave or contact Paul at 385-6201
Call Jim at (507) 345-2049
FEATURED PROPERTIES AT ATWOOD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • Remodeled units • WiFi & Cable TV incl. • Cats allowed • Additional storage • 1 BR $520 • 2 BR $600
PARKWAY APARTMENTS 101 and 103 Parkway Ave., corner of Parkway and Glenwood
(507) 388-9375 or (507) 381-8346
• Remodeled units • Some w/hardwood floors • Smoke-free • New hi-efficiency coin laundry • 2 BR $575
RITA ROAD APARTMENTS 188 and 192 Rita Road, end of E. Welcome Ave.
(507) 388-9375
209 S. Second St., Suite 200 • (507) 388-9375
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