February 3, 2011

Thursday, February 3, 2011

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Minnesota State University, Mankato

The Advocate names it No. 1 ‘gayest city in America’

GRACE WEBB

staff writer

When people think of gayfriendly cities, San Francisco or Miami come to mind. But according to The Advocate magazine, the gayest city in

America is none other than Mankato’s neighbor to the north, Minneapolis.

“Clearly, they’ve realized that we’re pretty cool in Minnesota,” said Jessica Flatequal, director of Minnesota State Mankato’s

LGBT Center.

To earn the title of “Gayest City in America,” Minneapolis had to come out on top from an average of four categories: number of registered gay. com profiles, openly-gay elected officials, number

of gay and lesbian bars and number/frequency of Tegan and Sarah (an indie rock band with two lesbian lead singers) performances. Minneapolis beat out cities such New York, Las Vegas and Orlando to win the coveted No. 1 spot.

Flatequal noted that the magazine did not measure such qualifications as marriage equality or partner benefits, which would seem more important than how many times a lesbian rock band swings by.

Minneapolis / page 3

Super Bowl A safe way to play sweeps Mankato Smitten Kitten owner explains Students still excited for game day despite rival team going for the win

GRACE WEBB

staff writer

Heart-pounding plays. Thrilling runs.

Ridiculous touchdown dances. That’s right, it’s Super Bowl XLV, with the Green Bay Packers taking on the Pittsburg Steelers.

The odds are already figured for which team will win—but cheering on a football team is only part of the Super Bowl Sunday fun. Where would the big game be without greasy food, screaming friends and hilarious commercials?

Minnesota State Mankato students are preparing for the Super Bowl in many different ways — or not at all.

Some students plan to get together with friends to watch the big game.

Kelsey Hakes, a student at MSU, said

INDEX

VOICES.............................4 Study Break.....................7 World & Nation................8 Sports............................11 Arts & Entertainment....15

she isn’t sure what she’s doing for the game this year, but she knows it will involve friends.

“In the past, my friends and I have done some pretty extensive things,” she said. “For instance, last year we pretty much made a Thanksgiving feast. Super Bowl Sunday is always fun.”

However, not all MSU students are interested in watching two groups of grown men fight over a

ball.

“Honestly, I probably won’t watch [the Super Bowl],” said MSU student Daniel Bonnell.

“I probably won’t watch it, either,” Cameron Hovey, another MSU student, agreed. “Not a football fan.”

Super Bowl / page 6

importance of knowing what checmicals are in sex toys

GRACE WEBB

staff writer

When it comes to buying sex toys, usually the main concern is what will feel good. But according to Jennifer Pritchett, owner of the Smitten Kitten in Minneapolis and a Minnesota State Mankato alumna, it’s just as important to make sure the toy you’re considering is safe.

“A lot of the chemicals [used in sex toys], if you were working with them individually, you’d be wearing a hazmatsuit,” Pritchett said.

Pritchett visited MSU to tell students how to avoid dangerous sex toys and find safe alternatives. The MSU Reproductive Rights Coalition hosted the lecture Wednesday. Pritchett, who earned her undergraduate and Masters of Science in Women’s Studies from

inside “THIS IS MY NIGHTMARE!” — SUPER BOWL XLV W/ THE KID’S TAKE (4) MSU FOOTBALL ALUM GEARS UP FOR SUPER BOWL WITH PACKERS (11) A&E PICKS THE BEST/WORST OF EVER-POPULAR TV CRIME DRAMAS (15) THE WHITE STRIPES: DEAD AT 14 — AN OBITUARY (18)

Follow this.

MSU, started her own sex toy shop in 2003 after getting the idea from a class project.

Pritchett said when she and her co-owners first opened their shop, they ordered sex toys from East Coast News, one of the top distributors of sex toys in the world.

However, when the toys arrived via UPS a week before the Smitten Kitten’s grand opening, Pritchett noticed oily spots seeping through all the cardboard boxes.

“They were kind of sweating,” she recalled.

When she opened all the boxes, she found that an oily substance had leaked out of all the jelly-rubber toys. She and her partners tried to wash the toys off, but the toys started to leak again as soon

@msureporter @natebrennan @kyle_ratke

Safe toys / page 6

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Page 2 • Reporter

News

Thursday, February 3, 2011T

ASA shares culture and charity

Event will donate to orphanages who need water, food and disease prevention AVERY CROPP

staff writer

Traditional food, performances, poetry and dress will contribute money to charity at African Night 2011: Holding on to Traditions. The event, hosted by the African Student Association, will be held 6 - 10 p.m. in the Centennial Student Union Ballroom Saturday.

“It’s a night to learn about culture, see your friends and learn something new in a way that isn’t boring,” said ASA President Florkime Paye.

Besides educating the audience, the event will also help those in need. Two dollars from every ticket sold will go towards ASA’s philanthropy project called “It Takes a Village.”

ASA is hoping to surpass its success last year when it raised $2,700 for the project.

This year, the group would

like to raise $2,000 each for two orphanages that are located in Burkina Faso and Uganda. It would also like to give students a chance at a better life by helping raise money for their secondary education.

The charity it will be donating the ticket money to is called Atai Orphanage.

Paye said they found this charity because one of ASA’s members had volunteered there last year.

According to Atai Orphanage’s website (www. ataiorphanage.org), the organization focuses on essentials such as clean water, food and clothing, and things such as beds and mosquito nets to prevent the spread of malaria.

The goal of the organization is to provide secondary education for students, which is what Paye and the rest of the ASA find

most important “Schooling is free in Uganda up through [seventh grade],” Paye said, “but after that, lots of students are unable to go to school because of the cost.”

Atai Orphanage, according to its website, pledges to put its children through six years of post-secondary education.

The first four years, called senior secondary, count as high school. Years one through four count as eighth grade through twelfth grade. The cost is $150-250 a semester, which covers tuition, room and board, and school supplies.

The last two years, advanced secondary, count as a community college education. These two years cost $200-300 a term. If students test well on exams at the end of advanced secondary, they are allowed to continue on to a university

education.

Those who don’t continue on to a university are brought to other government institutions where they are trained for other government jobs.

“I feel like if you’re going to school, you should be helping the future generations do the same,” Paye said. “We’re selling buttons, raising money and raising awareness. We have to give back somehow and this is a good way to do that.”

Tickets for African Night can be bought at MavAve in the CSU through Friday.

They can also be purchased at the International Student Association office, CSU 264.

They cost $7 for MSU and K-12 students, and cost $8 for

the general public.

“You think you know your culture,” Vivienne Mannah, a student involved in the event said, “but you see a whole different side of it at African Night.”

Both Paye and Mannah suggested that you buy your tickets in advance, since they sold out last year, and, if you want a front-row seat, make sure to come early.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

News

Key MSSA employee retires Student fees could increase, funds go to athletics

AVERY CROPP

staff writer

Tears and laughter flowed freely during Wednesday’s Minnesota State Student Association open forum, which was dedicated to the work and influence of MSSA Office Manager Cheri Bowyer who is retiring after 18 years.

Many senators spoke about her influence, kindness and ability to make MSSA run smoothly and seem like a family.

“For the past two-plus years I have had the privilege to work next to the nicest person I have ever met,” said Vice-President Brett Anderson. “She has never said a negative thing to anyone, even if they deserved it, and she has always put a positive spin on everything that she’s dealt with.”

Speaker Matthew Schmidt said how much he will miss all of Bowyer’s help when she leaves because he’ll be taking over many of her responsibilities.

“I have a piece of advice for you Cheri,” Schmidt said. “You need to change your rate plan on your cell phone. I would, instead of decreasing it, increase it, because you’re going to be getting some phone calls from us during this transition stage.

We’ll try to hold off as much as we can, but we’re not going to know what to do without you.”

But President Tom Williams paid the highest compliment of the evening to Bowyer.

“Knowing that people go through life without meeting someone as incredible as you really puts it into perspective of how much of a blessing you are to us,” he said.

Other senators and students, including former MSSA President Ryan Anderson, commented on the value of Bowyer’s wisdom and guidance throughout their years of service in MSSA, and how she has changed their lives by teaching them how to be better people.

“Thank you all for your kind words,” Bowyer said. “I have a million and one things to say, but the main thing is that God has a plan for all of us, student senate gave me the opportunity to have the memories that I will cherish for a lifetime… the people in this room are the best and they are the best of the best…it’s been 18 years of pure pleasure.”

After a short celebration of cupcakes and punch it was back to business as usual.

IMPACT made a short

presentation about an event that will be going on at the campus mall next week. There will be two former MSU alumni building a huge snow sculpture, and volunteers are needed to pack snow on Monday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Anderson brought up in his report that there is currently a referendum on the table that has the goal of saving the Men’s and Women’s Tennis teams, Women’s bowling and Men’s Swimming. The petition calls for a 75 cent per credit fee increase for athletics.

According to Anderson, if a student is taking 12 credits, they will be charged $9.19 more per semester. The funds raised from this fee increase will go exclusively toward these four sports, which now have 53 people on their combined rosters. This referendum will be put to a student vote during the spring elections in March.

Bowyer ending the evening, doing what she always has: caring for the two newly appointed off-campus senators by making sure the microphone was on so all of the student senators could hear their bids for election.

Reporter • Page 3

MINNEAPOLIS Mankato needs to increase support for LGBT individuals continued from 1 However, she said it is still great that Minneapolis has such a welcome attitude towards LGBT individuals.

“I think we benefit from being so close to a city that has so much to offer,” she said.

Flatequal said the MSU LGBT Center has had many partnerships with LGBT groups in the Twin Cities, such as when students participate in lobby days with other LGBT groups. She said working with groups from the city is great because there are so many different ethnic groups that aren’t as populous in southern Minnesota, such as the Hmong LGBT group, Shades of Gray.

“The gay scene in the cities has really been expanding,” agreed Jordan McDonald, a student involved at the LGBT Center.

He said Minneapolis has been working to create a safer environment for LGBT individuals, as well as offer more networking opportunities such as gay-friendly bars and nightclubs. In addition, social networking and technology is available to help LGBT individuals meet each other.

One iPhone app helps find LGBT bars in the Twin Cities

area.

“With technology available [to help], a lot of people are coming out,” McDonald said.

Flatequal said Mankato will probably never be named America’s Gayest City, just because it doesn’t have the population of St. Paul or Minneapolis. She compared the Mankato Pridefest, which pulls in about 2,000 participants a year, to the nationally-known Minneapolis Pridefest, which nets about one hundred times that much.

Besides that, Mankato has no openly gay officials or gay/ lesbian bars.

While Flatequal said she thinks Mankato still needs to work on increasing support for LGBT members of the community, she said the city is making progress. She also said she thinks MSU is doing a good job as well.

“I think we do really well for the budget we have,” she said.

The MSU LGBT Center welcomes all students and has many upcoming events for anyone interested. Its office is located in the Centennial Student Union, and interested students can also visit its

Voices

This is my nightmare

Thursday, February 3, 2011 www.msureporter.com

A reponse to “How to help your hangover”

As the Coordinator of Alcohol and Drug Sanction Education, my job is to meet with students who violate the alcohol and drug policy. Throughout interactions I have with students we always address the topic, if you choose to drink, how can you do that and be smart. With that said, I felt the need to respond to a quote from the “How to Help Your Hangover” article.

[The quote that read], “The greasy food absorbs your alcohol, so that your body can start digesting good things and help you start feeling better,” is inaccurate. Greasy foods DO NOT absorb alcohol.

Food in general, when eaten before and/or while drinking, slows the absorption of alcohol by preventing it from going directly to the small intestine, where it would be absorbed much faster. Protein and fat, such as cheese and peanuts, take longer to digest and delay the stomach emptying into the small intestines. So, eating foods that

contain protein and fat can help by slowing down the absorption of alcohol, but not by absorbing the alcohol like a sponge.

The “trick” to preventing a hangover is preventing bloodalcohol levels from rising high in the first place or choosing not to drink at all. When people drink to the point of being intoxicated, it increases their chances of having a hangover.

There is no cure for a hangover, except time. But, you can always modify your drinking habits to lessen the chances of getting a hangover, such as sticking to one drink or fewer an hour.

The Discovery Health website quoted in the “How to Help Your Hangover” article also recommends “The only fool-proof way to avoid a hangover, of course, is not to drink alcohol,” but I don’t remember seeing this quote in the article.

-Carly Hopper, Alcohol and Drug Sanction Education

Have a question, concern or opinion on what’s going on in the Reporter or the world in general? Submit your letter to the editor today through our online submission process or email it directly to reporter-editor@mnsu.edu That’s not enough, you say? Well how about becoming involved in the newsmaking process yourself by applying to become a staff member of the creative team behind the Reporter, Minnesota State University’s student newspaper and the Greater Mankato community’s literal free press. Applications are currently being accepted for photographers, art designers and reporters for the News, Sports and A&E sections. Applications can be picked up at the Reporter’s offices in CSU293. Applicants must submit a writing sample. A Mass Communications or English major is preferred, but not required.

What does the Super like ours, except we get a better Bowl mean to me? I hate that draft pick.” question. The Super Bowl Side note: That doesn’t make means as much to me as it any sense, I know. Your team means to a South Dakota made it to the Super Bowl, my Squirrels fan. team didn’t. I get it. We lost, you “But Kyle, there’s no such won. Just let me have this. thing. That’s not even an NFL I’ve made this list for those team.”

Vikings fans, or non-Packers Exactly my point, imaginary fans, to prepare for what could reader (my biggest fan). Being be the worst thing to happen to a Minnesota Vikings fan is the Minnesota since…okay, I can’t most painful thing I’ve had to think of anything.

1. Turn your phone off endure my whole life. If you’re Seriously, do it. It’s going a Vikings fan, you know exactly to be hard, I know. First off, what I am talking about. Gary everyone watching the Super Anderson or Brett Favre ruin Bowl will it for you, be having a and the next cocktail, so year you fool you shouldn’t yourself into be in the thinking Jeff corner texting George will like Brett Favre. Pull work out fine. your pants up, Jeff George Charlie!!! has never The last worked out thing you need fine, NEVER! is a 10-plus It’s like people texting when Anna you, saying that Kyle Ratke Nicole Smith “We didn’t need Sports Editor married James Favre” or “Eat Marshall. Did she love him? my cheese” or “Ha, we not so Probably not. Did she ever stupid now, are we?”

2. Don’t come to class think the marriage would last Monday… or take the whole for more than a decade? Not a week off. chance (they were married for Last week I passed a two years before his death). Did professor, or janitor, I couldn’t she love his money? You better tell, who was wearing an believe it.

Aaron Rodgers jersey. What?!

Did I love Jeff George? No. I wanted to punch the guy, Did I think things would work then I remembered I was 5’9, out with him? I just threw up.

160 pounds. Now think of this Did I think that just maybe we janitor/professor times four. could make another run with Every Packers fan will be wearing a jersey, and knowing him? Yeah, sadly I did. their hygiene, they’ll leave the Side-note: George is nacho cheese stain from Sunday currently Googling himself and on it. If I don’t attend classes is ecstatic after reading this. next week, I’ll be in bed eating “I’m relevant again! YESSS!!!” cotton candy ice cream and The worst part about this watching the 1998 Minnesota Super Bowl is that the team I Vikings highlight tape. Ah, hate the most is playing in it, what could have been. and if things weren’t horrible 3. Don’t bet on the game. already, they are the favorites.

I’m an idiot. I put a few Are many of my friends Green bones on the Steelers to win, plus a few prop bets favoring Bay fans? Yes. Will I want to them. And what if the Steelers cut off all my fingers if they lose? Boom. Double whammy. win? Probably. Did I already Don’t do it. purchase a Ben Roethlisberger This could very well be jersey? You better believe it. my last article. If you’ve been Many Minnesota fans will following this horrible ride, I’ve drink away the sorrow. Some promised to move to Rhode will eat. Some will pray that the Island if the Packers win.

Packers lose just so they can This is my nightmare. say, “Ha, your season was just

T

compiled by Wale Agboola

Who do you think will win the Super Bowl?

Evan Sewell• Sr • Marketing “The Pack — they have a good team.”

Jon Jamieson • So • Human Bio “Steelers because the Packers aren’t solid enough to win a major championship.”

Ashley Karst • Jr • Soc. Work “Steelers because I don’t like the Packers.”

Max Dornfeld • So • Undecided “The Pack — I love cheese.”

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

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News

Thursday, February 3, 2011T

SAFE TOYS Adult industry is not regulated, condoms can help protect users from harmful chemicals

SUPER BOWL Some students just

continued from 1

continued from 1

as they were dried.

Pritchett called the manufacturer, who told her the toys had melted in the August heat and promised to send her replacements. However, after doing some research, Pritchett learned that many sex toys are made with hard substances such as vinyl. In its hardest state, vinyl is used for plumbing pipes. For sex toys, manufacturers use chemicals called phthalates to destablize the hard molecules and allow for more softness.

The adult industry is free from any regulations, so Pritchett said one thing that concerned her was that many phthalates aren’t approved by organizations like the FDA. However, when Pritchett called East Coast News to tell them of the potential hazards, the distributor said it wasn’t a big deal. Pritchett said when she insisted something should be done to warn customers of risks, the distributor threatened her if she pursued an investigation.

The Smitten Kitten replaced customers’ jelly-rubber toys

for safer silicone replacements, which almost put the store out of business. It became the first sex toy shop in the world to offer only safe merchandise, and in 2005, Pritchett founded the Coalition Against Toxic Toys. The coalition is the only advocacy organization for the adult industry in the world.

Because the adult industry is unregulated and requires no warnings on risky toys, consumers are even more at risk. Pritchett said many people involved in the adult industry don’t care about their customers as long as they make a profit.

“You get the cheapest stuff, which ultimately is the worst for you, at the highest price,” Pritchett said.

Pritchett said there are some ways to pick safer sex toys.

Safer toys are made out of hard plastic, pryex glass, wood, ceramics, surgical stainless steel and silicone. The toys need to be made of non-porous material. Safe toys typically cost more, but Pritchett said they’re actually cheaper in the long run, because they can last

want to watch football

a lifetime while cheaper toys need to be replaced once or twice a year.

Pritchett added that if someone wants to keep using his or her old sex toy, even if it’s not the safest, a condom may help. She warned that no studies have been done to prove condoms prevent dangerous side-effects, but it can’t hurt.

“It’s not going to hurt you to use a condom if you’re not ready to replace ‘Johnny’ yet,” she said.

Allison Matthews, co-president of the MSU Reproductive Rights Coalition, said she was very pleased with the event.

“I thought [Pritchett] did a wonderful job explaining stuff most people don’t know,” she said. “It really opens your eyes.”

“I don’t watch [the game] unless my whole family gets together to watch it,” MSU student Laura Kuisle said. “And then it is the men [who] watch the game, [while] women play card games and the kids play games.”

The students who do watch the game will be faced with a tough decision: Which team should they support? On the one hand, the Packers are the Minnesota Vikings’ worst enemy. But at least they’re in the same conference as Minnesota, unlike the Steelers.

Many MSU students said they don’t care who wins, since the Vikings aren’t playing. For Hakes, the game isn’t about who wins or loses.

“I don’t really have a

preference,” she said. “I was rooting for both teams that didn’t make it, so I’m just here for the love of football, the taste of greasy food, the fun of friends and the always-amazing commercials.”

Michael Mendenhall is another student who loves watching the big game regardless of which teams are playing. He said he has been a fan of football since he was seven and hasn’t missed watching a Super Bowl in 20 years.

“It is an unofficial American holiday,” he said. “It does not matter [which] teams [are] in the Super Bowl; it is just fun to see America’s game.”

This year’s Super Bowl will kick off at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

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News

Reporter • Page 7

Study Break Thursday, February 3, 2011 www.msureporter.com Across 1. Seafood 6. Retired persons group (abbr.)

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Page 8 • Reporter

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Thursday, February 3, 2011 www.msureporter.com

Bush’s daughter supports gay marriage

NEW YORK (AP) — Former President George W. Bush’s daughter Barbara has announced her support for gay marriage, breaking with her father on a key social issue but joining her mother and other prominent Republicans who back same-sex unions.

The Human Rights Campaign, a national gay rights organization, released a video Tuesday featuring the 29-year old Bush, a New York resident who runs Global Health Corps, a nonprofit public health organization.

“I’m a New Yorker for marriage equality,” Bush says in the video. “New York is about fairness and equality and everyone should have the right to marry the person that they love.”

Paul Guequierre, a spokesman for the Human Rights Campaign, said the video was produced to help promote efforts to win same-sex marriage rights in

New York. A bill legalizing gay marriage passed the New York state Assembly in 2009 but was defeated in the state Senate that year. But Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, has announced his support for same-sex marriage, and advocates believe they have enough votes in both chambers for a bill to pass this year.

“New York is one of our priority states,” Guequierre said.

Barbara Bush’s advocacy for gay marriage is a sharp departure from her father’s position on the issue.

The former president was an opponent of same-sex marriage and in 2004 announced his support for a proposed constitutional amendment to outlaw it. But his wife, former first lady Laura Bush, has said she supports gay marriage as does former Vice President Dick Cheney, whose daughter Mary is gay.

Thursday, February 3, 2011T

Majority of Canadian border not under control by U.S.

Government worries about illegal activity

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Less than 1 percent of the 4,000-mile U.S.-Canada border is considered under the operational control of U.S. border officials, according to a report released Tuesday by the Government Accountability Office.

“To me this report is absolutely alarming,” said U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, noting that there is more known terrorist activity in Canada than Mexico. “GAO makes clear defense of our northern border is weak.”

Crossers include people seeking to immigrate illegally, criminals trafficking humans and smuggling drugs, and, potentially, terrorists, said U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who released the report with Lieberman.

The GAO report says Customs and Border Protection believes it can detect illegal entries, respond and deal with them on only about 32 miles

of the northern border. It says the Border Patrol was aware of all illegal border crossings on only 25 percent of the border, or 1,007 out of 4,000 miles.

Most areas of the northern border are remote and inaccessible by traditional patrol methods, the report said.

“Few northern border miles had reached an acceptable level of security as of fiscal year end 2010,” said the report, citing Border Patrol security assessments. It also found that illegal crossings by terrorists are more likely along the northern border than they are across the southern border.

Collins said the Department of Homeland Security allocates increasing amounts of money to the southern border “to the detriment of the northern border.” The money helps coordinate the federal government’s border security efforts with state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies.

“It is very clear from this report that the United States remains very vulnerable,” said Collins, who called the report

shocking.

Lieberman said that while the resources aren’t there to put people along the entire 4,000mile northern border, “we ought to be able to detect people coming over.” He said he wants federal officials to be able to dispatch law enforcement when they detect an illegal entry.

A Homeland Security spokesman said the agency has made critical security improvements along the northern border, such as deploying additional Border Patrol agents, technology and infrastructure. The spokesman, Matthew Chandler, added that the department is taking steps to address the GAO’s recommendations.

In Canada, some members of Parliament dismissed American worries about security along the countries’ border. Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said Canada has worked hard to improve security along the border, and there’s no reason for added controls that would slow trade or travel between the two, The Canadian Press reported.

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The eye of Cyclone Yasi roared ashore at the small resort town of Mission Beach in Queensland state, battering the coast known to tourists as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef with heavy rain and howling winds gusting to 186 mph (300 kph).

Yasi compounded the suffering for Queensland, waterlogged by months of flooding that killed 35 people and inundated hundreds of communities. It struck an area north of the flood zone, but the Bureau of Meteorology said it would bring drenching rains that could cause floods in new parts of the state.

Witnesses reported roofs being ripped off, buildings shaking and trees flattened under the power of the winds.

Officials said the storm surge would flood some places to roof level.

“This is a cyclone of savagery and intensity,” Prime Minister Julia Gillard said in a nationally televised news conference as the storm moved toward the coast. “People are facing some really dreadful hours in front of them.”

More than 10,000 people fled to 20 evacuation centers in a danger zone stretching 190 miles (300 kilometers), amid strong warnings in the past two days. Many others moved in with family or friends in safer locations. Still, authorities were preparing for devastation, and likely deaths.

The storm’s front was about 300 miles (500 kilometers) across, with the worst of the winds expected to lash the coast for up to four hours, although blustery conditions and heavy rain could last for a day.

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Sports

SEARCH FOR “THE KID’S TAKE” ON FACEBOOK TO LISTEN TO RATKE’S WEEKEND INTERVIEW WITH MSU BASKETBALL PLAYER

Thursday, February 3, 2011 www.msureporter.com/sports

JOE DRAPACHO

A Dream Come True In mid-December, Adrian Battles was convinced his NFL dream was over — at least for this season.

Now he’s part of a team with a chance of winning the Lombardi Trophy.

KYLE RATKE | sports editor

After working out for the Green Bay Packers in November, offensive lineman Adrian Battles knew there was some interest.

His hope shrunk as December slowly faded, but by Dec. 21, the Packers called Battles and offered him a job on the practice squad.

No, he’s not the biggest offensive lineman at 6’3, 311 lbs. No, he didn’t go to a top school, just like you he went to Minnesota State Mankato — a DII school when it comes to football.

The Minnesota Vikings, who invited Battles to training camp this summer, decided they didn’t need him (something they likely

web photo Adrian Battles (right) gets interviewed by Cincinnati Bengals wide Receiver Chad Ochocinco on Super Bowl Media Day.

regret).

So, what kept him going?

After so many people told him “No”, how in the world did he keep going?

“A lot of people won’t believe in you or that you have that chance [to play in the NFL],” Battles said. “If you work hard, you can get anything in life you want... My mentality was just to work hard and push harder.”

This job couldn’t be more of a dream for Battles. As a Milwaukee, Wisc.- native, Battles has always been a Packers fan.

Apparently Packers President Ted Thompson knew what he was doing when signing Battles

— the Packers are 5-0 since Battles has joined the practice squad.

Not too shabby.

“When I got there, they welcomed me with open arms,” Battles said. “I knew coming in it was a great fit. The first team meeting, you could tell these guys were in playoff mode. It was going to be a hard stretch, but being on the practice squad I just tried to show them great looks so they’d be ready for gamedays.”

Battles played for the Mavericks from 2005-09, and helped anchor down a Maverick offensive line that was one of the best

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Kyle Ratke Sports Editor

Nate Brennan Editor in Chief

in the nation.

Teammates and friends around the Mankato area have kept contact through Facebook and Twitter.

On Facebook, many friends have switched his or her profile picture to Battles in his Packers jersey — although many Minnesota fans ignore the green and gold — and have been giving him support left and right.

On Twitter, Battles has responded to nearly everyone giving him support and thanking them for being along with for the ride.

Not your average NFL player, huh?

“The support has been amazing,” Battles said. “They’ve been real encouraging and told me to take advantage of this. A lot of people are looking up to me and if they want something, they can get it if they work hard.”

Former teammates have kept in contact with Battles and applaud him for his work.

“He’s a ton of fun. I’ve never seen someone do more curls in my entire life,” joked former MSU quarterback and teammate Ryan Fick. “He’s someone who always has a smile on his face ...

His work ethic spoke for itself.”

Battles / page 14

Packers vs Steelers

Eric Decker Denver Broncos WR

Dana Clark Graphic Arts Supervisor

Page 12 • Reporter

Sports

MSU Women’s Hockey Gameday Lee Handel • staff writer

Minnesota-Duluth (14-7-3, 12-7-3 WCHA) at Minnesota State (7-18-3, 6-15-1 WCHA) 7:07 p.m., Friday • All Season Arena 3:07 p.m., Saturday • All Seasons Arena RECAP: As far as the Minnesota State Mankato women’s hockey team sees it, the playoffs have already started. With the calendar turned to February, every Maverick opponent from here on out has a quality resume. MSU knows they will have to compete with and beat these squads if they wish to keep playing hockey deep into the month. The first test comes this weekend at home against Minnesota-Duluth. The Bulldogs currently sit in fourth place in the WCHA standings with 39 points, but are only three points behind second-place Minnesota and have plenty to play for. UMD swept Bemidji State in Duluth last weekend, winning by scores of 4-3 and 5-3. The Mavericks snapped a 15-game winless streak on the road against North Dakota, winning the second game of the series 5-3 last Saturday. MSU dropped the first contest 6-1, gaining them a split with the Fighting Sioux. MSU is currently all but locked into the seventh position in the WCHA, which will pit them against the winner of the number two seed in the upcoming WCHA tournament.

Wisconsin figures to gain the top seed in the tournament.

HISTORY: The Mavericks and Bulldogs faced off up in Duluth way back in October, with UMD convincingly sweeping MSU by scores of 5-2 and 6-0. While that was awhile back, the Mavericks have always struggled against 12-year head coach Shannon Miller’s squad, going just 4-40-3 all-time against the Bulldogs. MSU has beaten the Bulldogs under second-year head coach Eric Means before, however, stealing a 3-2 victory in Duluth last season. The last time the two teams met at All Seasons Arena, UMD swept the Mavericks by scores of 3-1 and 2-1 last January.

MSU NOTES: The Mavericks finally broke through on offense last Saturday, scoring five goals in the win against North Dakota. Junior captain Ariel Mackley started the scoring with her second goal of the season on the power play.

Then with MSU trailing 3-1, freshman forwards Melissa Klippenstein and Kelsie Scott each tallied their second goals of the season just two minutes apart to tie the game 3-3 heading into the third period. That was when senior forward Lisa Edman put the finishing touches on her two-goal weekend, notching the game-winner for her second goal of the year.

Junior forward Moira O’Connor would add an empty-net goal late in the third to seal the 5-3 win for the Mavericks, her sixth goal of the season. Freshman goaltender Danielle Butters saved 28 shots for MSU to pick up her teamleading fourth win in net. Freshman forward Kathleen Rogan assisted on Mackley’s score, giving her a team-leading 20 points on the season.

UMD NOTES: The Bulldogs are led in points by junior forward Haley Irwin (17-20—37) and senior forward Elin Holmlov (10-21—31). The team’s best player might be senior blue-liner Laura Fridfinnson (5-7—12), who is a converted forward with career totals of (70-74—144). UMD’s top goalie is senior Kim Martin, with a 1.57 goals against average and .939 save percentage.

PRODUCTION: Once again, if the Mavericks want to win a game or two in this series, they must score three or more goals. They are now 7-0-0 this season when they do so. Expect MSU to become 8-0-0 in such games and earn a split this weekend.

Thursday, February 3, 2011T Men’s hockey

Back at home REPORTER STAFF

The Minnesota State Mankato men’s hockey team (11-11-6, 5-11-3 WCHA) will come back home this weekend, as it will lace up against the Bemidji State Beavers (9-12-2, 5-11-2 WCHA) Friday at 7:37 p.m.

The Mavericks trail in the all-time series, 35-44-13, but MSU has won the last six games.

Junior Michael Dorr had three assists in last week’s 3-3 tie with St. Cloud State and went on to score two goals on Saturday in the 6-2 MSU victory.

The Beavers did not play last weekend, and are led by sophomore forward Jordan George (9-15-24) and senior forward Matt Read (15-8-23).

Last week, both Dorr and senior Kurt Davis took home WCHA hardware by winning offensive player and defensive player awards respectively.

Dorr had five points last weekend and is tied first for MSU’s scoring lead with 10-1222 on the year. Dorr has played in all 28 games this season.

Davis had three points on a goal and two assists and was +2 with seven shots on goal in two games.

He’s tied for tenth in the nation in defensemen scoring (.79 ppg). He is also tied for first place on the team with 22 total points.

With 90 total points in his career, he’s tied for MSU’s record for most points for a defenseman during its NCAA Division 1 era.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Sports

Reporter • Page 13 Men’s basketball

Wrestling

How to take down No. 1 DREW CLAUSSEN

staff writer

It’s Mavericks vs. Mavericks this Friday as the No. 7 Minnesota State Mankato wrestling team take on No. 1 NebraskaOmaha in a highly-anticipated duel at home in the Taylor Center.

The duel features two teams that have amassed quite a bit of history over the years.

“We’ve wrestled Omaha every year in a duel meet in the 18 years I’ve been here,” said MSU head coach Jim Makovsky. “I would say right now they’re one of our biggest rivals.”

MSU (8-3, 4-1 NSIC) is coming off a weekend where they split their two matches, defeating Upper Iowa 23-13 and losing to Augustana 10-21.

UNO (7-1) is also coming off of a two-match weekend, defeating Central Oklahoma and Nebraska-Kearney.

“We’ve got a lot of history with them,” Makovsky said.

“But we’ve got a lot of young guys in our line-up that aren’t all that familiar with history and we have to do a good job on

guys will step up and a couple guys will go back,” Makovsky said. “We’ve got to get all 10 Nebraska-Omaha guys getting traction at the When: 7p.m. Friday same time.”

Where: Taylor Center - Mankato, Minn.

Bigger matches like the ones last weekend educating them on some and against UNO this of that stuff.” weekend help sharpen UNO features seven the focus and raise individually-ranked the energy levels of wrestlers, including the wrestlers. The Mario Morgan, Esai key to taking down Dominguez and George a top-ranked team is Ivanov, who are all to simpy believe that Makovsky ranked first in their reyou can do it. That’s spective weight classes. what Makovky’s been MSU’s upper weights, preaching to his wrestlers. consisting of Ben Becker, “We just have got to get the Aaron Norgren and Pat Mahan, guys — especially the inexpewho have been key in the past rienced guys — believing that couple matches, will once again he can beat excellent people,” need to be strong.

Makovsky said. “I think they’re “Norgren continues to be capable, but you have to feel in pretty consistent, he hasn’t your mind that you deserve it wrestled perfect matches, but and that you’ve earned it.” he’s getting the job done,” MakUNO’s only loss this season ovsky said. “Matter of fact, he’s came at the hands of St. Cloud one of the only guys putting State earlier this season. Match guys on their back right now.” time on Friday at THE Taylor Makovsky knows that in orCenter is 7 p.m. der to beat UNO, he cannot rely “They’ve got a good team,” on a couple of his wrestlers.

Makovsky said. “But they’re “We’ve struggled to get all not invincible.”

10 guys all at once. A couple of

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At the beginning of the season, the Minnesota State Mankato men’s basketball team lost two players (team violations) that were expected to play in the paint.

After that, there were questions whether or not the Mavericks were big enough down low to compete in a tough and physical Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference.

Well, MSU (17-2,13-2 NSIC) is currently in first place in the conference and have utilized “big” men Connor O’Brien (6’7) and Mike Bisenius (6’9) well.

“I give credit to those guys,” said senior guard Jefferson Mason. “They’re not sevenfoot, 200 pound guys. They might give up 20-30 pounds, but they make up for it by playing hard.”

Redshirt freshman O’Connor has started all 18 games he’s played in so far, averaging 7.3 points per game and 6.4 rebounds per game.

Junior forward Bisenius, who has only played in 10 games, has earned playing time over the last few weekends and

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Perhaps what the Mavericks lack in size, they make up for with their athleticism.

“Coach always tells us to get out there and pressure the ball [because we’re so athletic],” Mason said. “Everyone has to be comfortable and do their part.”

MSU has a two-game lead over both Augustana (14-5, 11-4 NSIC) and Mary (15-4, 11-4 NSIC).

If the Mavericks sweep this weekend, they could potentially put themselves up four games with five remaining.

That would be ideal, but Mason knows it’ll be tough.

“There’s such a rivalry with the top-four teams,” Mason said. “We hold a two-game lead right now and [other teams] are looking at that wanting to get closer. We just have to stay focused and poised.”

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Sports

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Women’s basketball

Putting together a “Playoff Plan” The Mavericks hope to at least split this weekend to keep hopes alive TIGE HUTCHESON

UP NEXT

staff writer

Back in December, the Minnesota State Mankato women’s basketball team stumbled out of the gate in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference play to a 0-2 conference record after dropping two home games to Wayne State and Augustana. Still two of the toughest teams in the NSIC, the Mavericks (8-6, 11-8) will try their luck against them again – this time on the road.

Following MSU’s loss on Friday to Winona State, the Mavericks took a small fall in the NSIC rankings, falling out of their tie with three other teams with 7-6 records. Although unspoken, the Mavericks were hoping to give themselves a bit of cushion for this weekend’s road trip by adding two wins last weekend. Since that didn’t happen, head coach Pam Gohl and her squad had to change their plans a little bit.

“I really do feel like we’re in a position now where we’re going to have to win one on the road this weekend,” Gohl said. “Nobody has beaten Augustana or Wayne State at home in the conference, so it’s a lofty challenge, but if we want to climb back in and

Augustana When: 6 p.m. Friday Where: Sioux Falls, S.D. improve our conference rating, we need to split this weekend.”

MSU’s best chance for a win comes on Friday as they travel to Sioux Falls, S.D., to take on the Vikings of Augustana College (9-6, 16-6). The Vikings, who are currently sitting at fifth in the conference, have disappointed after being picked second in the preseason rankings. The Vikings lead the NSIC in scoring offense, scoring margin, assists, assistto-turnover ratio, three-point field goals made and defensive rebounds, making them, statistically, the most explosive offense in the NSIC. The Warriors are led by three players averaging double figures in scoring, starting with Megan Doyle’s 16.5 points per game average, Molly Hayes’ 14.9 and Alex Feeney’s 13.2. Hayes also leads the NSIC with 5.45 assists per game and Feeney leads the conference in three-point field goal percentage with 52 percent on the year.

shannon rathmanner • msu reporter Point guard Andrea Walsh is second on the team with 10.1 points per game and first on the team with 4.7 assists per game.

The Mavericks will have less than 24 hours to make the transition from Augustana’s fast break offense to Wayne State’s slow, more methodical style, as they head to Wayne, Neb., to take on the No. 9 Warriors.

Coming off of a humiliating 91-57 conference loss to Concordia on Saturday, the Warriors (14-1, 17-2) are led by NSIC Preseason Player of the Year, 6-2 junior forward Ashley Arlen.

Arlen averages 16.1 points and 8.2 rebounds per game for the Warriors, but is by no means their only weapon. The Warriors also have former NSIC Player of the Week, center Mara Hjelle (12.8 points and 7.0 rebounds per game), along with Alyssa Fischbach (10.2 points and 8.6

rebounds per game), who is second in rebounding only to MSU’s Ali Wilkinson (9.4 rebounds per game).

It has been two months since the Mavericks dropped their first two games of conference play to Augustana and Wayne State. At the time, it was tough to expect the Mavericks’ young roster to hold their own against both nationally ranked teams. Now, with less than a month left to go in the season, finding a way to win this weekend is an essential piece of the postseason plan. The Mavericks will need their young roster to finally step up and rise to the challenge, no matter how great.

BATTLES continued from 11

It’s hard to argue with his work ethic — Battles has already been promised by the Packers that he’ll join the squad next season with a chance to earn a roster spot.

“That’s a great feeling to have going into the offseason,” Battles said. “You gotta take advantage of every opportunity to be ready to play and learn to be openminded.”

This season, Battles spent the last five weeks helping the Packers prepare to take on opposing teams. Maybe next season he’ll be playing in those games.

Right now, Battles is just enjoying the ride — including being interviewed by Chad Ochocinco on Super Bowl Media Day. “That was crazy,” Battles said of meeting the controversial receiver.

This whole ride has been kind of crazy for Battles. But hey, nobody’s complaining.

“It’s been a great ride,” Battles said. “... And now we’re in Dallas.”

He won’t be talked about on Sportscenter, nor will he be an MVP finalist, but Adrian Battles is perfectly fine with that — for now at least.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

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You love movies, music and television, right? Of course you do. Don’t you enjoy fashion, theatre and visual art? Obviously. What about The Reporter? You’re reading this paper, aren’t you? Now one final question: Do you enjoy writing? You will if you apply to be a staff writer at this fabulous newspaper. Basic line, we’re

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Bones, Bodies and Blood Television’s Best & Worst Crime Dramas MEGAN KADLEC

Criminal Minds

a&e co-editor The crime drama has been an American staple since the invention of the radio. For some reason, we can’t seem to get enough of shows and movies depicting horrendous crimes and the detectives who solve the cases.

Television crime dramas are generally highly intense and (mostly) wrap up a plotline in a single episode, adding to their appeal. Since the content is everchanging, these shows generally have longer runs than your average sitcom or reality show. Take a look though The Reporter’s list of the best, and worst, of these current dramas.

This series revolves around a team of FBI agents who travel the country profiling the most twisted criminal minds. The Behavioral Analysis Unit attempts to predict a criminal’s next move before it is too late. The show is an innovative spin on the original crime drama, delving deep into the psyche of malicious serial killers and other criminals.

Law & Order: SVU

Psych

NCIS

While the team in this series travels the globe to investigate and solve crimes that relating to the United States Navy or Marine Corps, the show is packed with humorous anecdotes among the characters.

As we watch the team investigate terrorism, espionage and murder, viewers also learn about the personal lives of the characters through their interactions with each other.

Some might think comedy and murder shouldn’t go together, but it works for this show.

NCIS: Los Angeles

Half of the reason viewers loved the original NCIS were the incredible characters. The show’s description appears highly interesting: A team charged with investigating the most dangerous criminals that pose a threat to national security.

However, this spin-off simply cannot compare to its incredible predecessor.

Dexter

The Closer

This spin-off of the original Law & Order focuses on a branch of the New York City Police Department, the Special Victims Unit. The content is almost exclusively devoted to sexual-based crimes.

The series follows Detective Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni), a veteran of the unit, and his partner, Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay), who joined the team because she was a product of rape. The show is in its eleventh season on NBC. Not too bad for a spin-off series.

Though this show is more comedy than tragedy, it still lands on our list of the best crime dramas. The quick-witted series stars James Roday as Shawn Spencer, a goofy police consultant who solves crimes using his intense power of observation. Along with his assistant, Gus (Dule Hill), he convinces the Santa Barbara Police Department that he is a true psychic. If viewers aren’t up for true crime and disturbing details, but are for odd humor, give this USA Network show a chance.

Bones

CSI: Miami

Unlike SVU, this spin-off doesn’t quite live up to its predecessor, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. It’s a stereotypical crime drama using “cutting-edge scientific methods and old-fashioned police work to solve crimes” (CBS Website). The lead detective, Horatio Caine, comes off as extremely creepy and the bright, highly-contrasted colors can easily induce headaches. This uninspired spin-off should definitely be left off the list of crime dramas to watch.

This crime drama stars Kyra Sedgwick, playing a Georgia police detective who travels to Los Angeles to work on a team that has had several name changes throughout its six seasons. Although this show has been rated highly, something is not right with the lead character. Maybe it’s the way she acts or that awfully fake-sounding accent. Whatever the problem, it prevents viewers from enjoying what the show should be: an average crime drama people watch on occasion, but no one watches religiously.

This Showtime series profiles your favorite neighborhood serial killer and blood splatter analyst, Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall). Unlike most psycho serial killers, Dexter uses his inner demons for good, only killing serial killers who he thinks deserve to die. The intriguing plotline and dry humor set the show apart from other crime dramas.

In its fifth season, Dexter has captured viewers hearts forever and poses a difficult moral question: Can killing the guilty be morally justified?

Numb3rs

Lie to Me Inspired by real-life forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs, this show follows Dr. Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel) as she uses her intelligence and skill to read clues that have been left behind in a victim’s bones. Her headstrong and determined attitude helps identify bodies so badly decomposed that traditional methods cannot be used. A series with humor and heart, this crime drama thrusts itself into the world of forensics favorites.

This relatively new drama follows Dr. Cal Lightman (Tim Roth), the world’s leading deception expert. He heads a team that helps law enforcement officials solve their most difficult cases, analyzing facial expressions and involuntary body language to read a vast array of emotions.

Who ever thought of using numbers to solve crimes? This fresh series follows two brothers who confront the most confounding criminal cases with a distinctive flair. The first brother is an FBI agent who recruits his mathematical-genius brother to provide unexpected answers to some of the most puzzling criminal questions.

Page 16 • Reporter

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Thursday, February 3, 2011T

Minneapolis Indie Rockers Release Third Tapes `n Tapes tries to keep relevant, creative BRIAN ROSEMEYER variety co-editor

Tapes `n Tapes debuted in 2005 out of Minneapolis with The Loon. The first full-length album from the indie rockers brought unexpected critical acclaim.

The young group was being praised in Rolling Stone, Pitchfork and many other major review outlets.

Tapes `n Tapes ws set up for large-scale success on account of its fresh, creative and accessible sound.

After The Loon, the band teamed up with producer David Frimann to release Walk It Off. The second installment of Tapes `n Tapes LPs was under close scrutiny to match the expectations set by the first.

Critics and fans alike gave a resounding “meh” to the record.

In Walk It Off the group rounded out its sound with intricate rhythmic patterns, and overall a more musical approach to its song writing. However, many believed the aggression the group approached the recording with felt forced and unnatural.

In 2011, Tapes `n Tapes attempts to regain its indie rock status with Outside, the third record from the group headed by vocalist and guitarist Josh Grier.

There exists a definite f lavor to Grier’s songwriting. He favors particular rhythmic patterns in his guitar playing and uses certain vocal phrasing synonymous with the music of the group.

Outside is instantly recognizable as a Tapes `n Tapes album, meaning it hasn’t strayed far from what made its first album so successful. In general, the songs are mediocre and it’s a bit disappointing that a band with exceptional talent has failed to evolve much, if at all, in the past six years.

The record opens with “Badaboom,” a song typical (and predictable) of Tapes `n Tapes’ style. The passion in Grier’s voice, which drew fans initially, feels tired in the opening track.

The album continues with “SWM,” an unintentionally lethargic-sounding song lacking vocal emphasis and melodic diversity.

The phrase intended to be the hook could have been written by anybody with an

instrument in front of them.

The third song is also one of the worst on the album. It is curious that the group would open the album with the three weakest pieces. “One In The World” sounds like a failed attempt at a single, piggybacking off the lame success of Vampire Weekend through replicating guitar tones and rhythmic qualities.

Toward the middle of Outside, the band starts to make progress. “The Saddest of All Keys” is a bluesy piece in which Grier’s gravelly vocal performance superbly displays a new sort of pain.

“Freak Out” is the first single released off Outside.

The song is well written and catchy as all get out. The tune sums up the band in just over four minutes. The drum track, the bouncy bass line, the chunky guitar and the crisp vocal harmonies are all indicative of the core ability of the group.

Tapes `n Tapes tries its hand at borderline psychedelic experimentation with the second-to-last track “On And On.” The song is interesting, but once again falls f lat and uninspired in its performance.

The closing track “Mighty Long” breaks the group’s sound wide open. The song accurately displays the arrangement capabilities of Grier,

• web photos

featuring brass tracks and a powerful organ. The song is well produced and feels alive. Not coming until the end of the album, this song demonstrates where Tapes `n Tapes should be at this point in its career.

Outside is an album with such contrasting highs and lows that make it difficult to enjoy as a whole. Certain tracks demonstrate Tapes `n Tapes’ ability to produce interesting and enthralling music, while other tracks demonstrate Tapes `n Tapes desire to remain on charts and naïvely write songs with formulas it figures people will like.

It’s hard to tell if the

band is going through growing pains, and will eventually release its definitive work, or if the

band has already peaked and is trying painfully hard to stay relevant.

GUTEN TAG!

Would you like to study German language & culture?

Travel and work in areas where German is spoken?

• Consider: - Elementary, Intermediate & Advanced German courses for everyone - Study Abroad at Friedrich Alexander University - Erlangen, Germany - Major and Minor in German For more information, contact professors Nadja Krämer or Cecilia Pick

Department of Modern Languages

227 Armstrong Hall • 389-2116 • www.mnsu.edu/modernlang

Thursday, February 3, 2011

A&E

Reporter • Page 17

One-liners, drinking stories and birthmarks Maverick Comedy Club builds community through open mic nights BRIAN ROSEMEYER a&e co-editor

Mankato has art, music, theatre, film and many other sorts of entertainmentbased spectacles. You may be asking however, “where can I find some live comedy around this place? I wanna laugh dammit!”

Take it easy, bud. For live comedy in Mankato, you can look to one group The Maverick Comedy Club.

Aside from having what one assumes to be hilarious chapter meetings, and sidesplitting talks on how to allocate group funds, the club puts on live stand-up events throughout the year.

A weekly staple in the event calendar is the

Maverick Comedy Club open mic, held every Monday in the basement of the CSU at 8 p.m. The jestly themed gettogether is totally free, unless an insult comic takes stage of course, then the only cost to you is your dignity. And who has much of that left to lose these days anyhow?

Everybody is welcomed to grab the microphone and tell your best one-liners, share drinking stories, show your birthmarks or do whatever else you think is funny.

The atmosphere is loose and anything goes.

“Everyone here is an adult,” said Christian Hagen, founder of the club and the open mic, “I won’t cut anyone off for saying something they

think is funny.”

For example, last Monday’s edition featured a wide range of obscenity and hilarity, just ask performer Morgan Bartholomew.

“I’ll tell beat-off jokes in front of anybody,” said Bartholomew.

See? And no need to be nervous, the room and audience promote a supportive environment.

“It’s a community feeling, that’s what I like about this,” said Hagen. “And I mean, if something’s funny to you, it’s bound to be funny to someone else.”

And no, nobody will force you to go up on stage. There’s no need to sign up before

wale agboola• msu reporter Above, Christian Hagen performs his stand up act at open mic night.

Left, an MSU student tells a funny joke.

hand, just come and hang out.

If you feel like telling a joke, go for it.

The open mic will not be held next Monday on account of the club bringing professional comedian Cy Amundson to the Ostrander Auditorium.

The Minneapolis based funny-man is doing the show free for all Minnesota State

1129 Cross Street North Mankato, MN

Mankato students, $5 for all non-students. The event starts at 9 p.m. on Monday, and Cy will be warmed up by some of the open mic regulars.

Come laugh with fellow students at fellow students, now that’s nice.

To see what the stand-up night’s like in action, head to msureporter.com for a video recap

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Page 18 • Reporter

A&E

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Obituary: White Stripes Dead At Age 14 BRIAN ROSEMEYER a&e co-editor

The White Stripes, everyone’s favorite falsely-brother-and-sister-Detroitbased-blues-rock-duo, announced it would be hanging up its red and white uniforms for good yesterday, according the Associated Press.

The highly inf luential music act of Jack and Meg White died early Wednesday afternoon at the age of 14 years.

The group led a full life, consisting of six studio albums, two DVDs and numerous EPs and b-side releases.

In 1997, rock and roll was on life-support.

Bands across the country attempted to break new ground in the decaying genre, but only found frustration.

Then, all of a sudden, a blast of mega-distorted blues guitar and simple-

Remembering...

Call for 2011 MSU-M Undergraduate Research Conference Abstracts and Application to Present

yet-powerful pounding drum beats exploded out of Detroit, Michigan.

When everyone else was tampering with the genre, making it more complex, then making it simpler, the White Stripes found the one ingredient it had been missing and added extra: soul.

In the later years of the groups’ life, Jack White, guitarist and front man, had expanded his music career over many side projects, including The Dead Weather, The Raconteurs and his own record label known as Third Man Records.

Meg White, drummer and total babe, took breaks from the music scene during Jack’s expanding career and White Stripes releases.

Fans and the industry alike will sorely miss the duo. However, the White Stripes ask us not to fret.

“The White Stripes do not belong to Meg and Jack anymore. The White Stripes belong to you now and you can do with it whatever you want,” they said. “The beauty of art and music is that it can last forever if people want it to. Thank you for sharing this experience. Your involvement will never be lost on us and we are truly grateful.”

In memorial of this monumental band, please take some time out of your week to pick out your favorite White Stripes record, slap it on, crank the volume and blast that mother for all the block to hear.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

For Rent

Classifieds

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www.msureporter.com For Rent Roommates Wanted

For Rent

CHOICE FOUR BR HOUSE, 2 full bath, large yard, on-site laundry, 2 car garage available, close to MSU. $1,260/mo or $315/mo per person. Available 7/1/11. Call Scott for showing 507-951-1974.

3/3 FIND A PLACE TO RENT OR post great looking listings at RadRenter.com.

4/28 FEMALES TO SHARE 5 bedroom Victorian home in Historic Lincoln Park, 3 baths, C/A, Off Street Parking, front and back porch, 330 Fulton Street. $1775.00 plus utilities for whole house or individual leases upon request.

507-380-0102 or 507-386-0236 Available 8-1-11.

2/8 CEDAR MEADOW APARTMENTS. 3 bedroom apartments in new energy efficient building. $900 per month plus free internet and cable, now leasing for fall 2011. Call 507-327-2831 cedarmeadowapartments.com.

5/25 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 website www.ottoH.com owner/agent or call 507-340-3465.

6/22

DOWNTOWN MANKATO DEVINE Towers 4-5 bedroom units. Washer/ Dryer/fireplace/disposal/DW/ceiling fans/ $340/br. Available Aug. 1. Call 952-451-5793.

2/24 1,2,3,4,5 BEDROOM APTS FOR summer and fall call 507-382-5858 or visit www.MankatoApts.com. 3/15 3, 4, AND 5 BEDROOM HOUSES available for Aug. 1st. Only a few remain. Go to radrenter.com to view available properties. Call 385-1999 to set up a showing.

2/15 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT. UPPER Duplex. Available August 1, 2011. 5 minutes to campus. Walking distance to downtown. $550.00 plus utilities. 651-452-0342.

2/3 3 BEDROOM APARTMENT. LOWER Duplex. Available August 1, 2011. 5 minutes to campus. Walking distance to downtown. $750.00 plus utilities. 651-452-0342.

2/3 HOUSE FOR RENT. AVAILABLE 8/1/11 - 7/31/12. 4 BR, $1,100/ mo + utilities. Includes washer/ dryer. Many upgrades. Some off-street parking. 381-2111 or MLMRENTALS@live.com.

2/10 HOUSE FOR RENT AUGUST 1STOne Block from MSU 5 People. 507382-2117.

2/22

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2/10 2 TOWNHOMES FOR RENT August 1st. 5 Bed 2 Bath units are 1 year old and on bus route. Call 507-995-5300 for pricing and availability.

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FREE SHOTOKAN KARATE classes offered M/T/TH. 6-8 pm. Room PH 102. Beginners are welcome. Need not be a MSU student to join. For info call Brad @ 507-388-5301 or lostgonzo@gmail or search MSU Shotokan on facebook or yahoo groups.

4/28

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Individual leases $385.00 to $420.00 per month, includes utilities, TV, cable, and Internet.

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2/8 FEMALE ROOMMATE WANT-ED to live in brand new College Town house. 5 Br, 6 Bath. Call 507-3815376.

2/3 QUIET FEMALE ROOMMATE for Devonshire. $280/month including utilities. Call: 952-693-6766.

2/8

Reporter • Page 19

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Technology Fair Event E-Books Reader Forum FEBRUARY 6TH

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February 10TH CSU 201, 9-11 a.m.

E-Book Reader Exhibits CSU, 1st Floor 11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Hinder - Saving Abel - My Darkest Days 5-7 p.m.

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Page 20 • Reporter

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Thursday, February 3, 2011