February 23, 2012

Page 1

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Minnesota State University, Mankato

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FRIDAY

H 30 • L 13

SATURDAY

H 31 • L 24

Gage gunman flees the scene

ELISE KONERZA

assistant news editor On Monday, a campus-wide email was sent out to each student containing the message that a gunman was spotted on campus and more specifically the dormitory, Gage B. The report stated that a male individual was noticed carrying a handgun. Minnesota State University, Mankato campus security and Mankato police handled the

situation at 11:15 p.m. The suspect reportedly left the scene prior to the police’s arrival. There was no one injured during the incident and Mankato detectives are actively working on the case in search of any leads to locate Monday’s gunman. Mankato’s Department of Public Safety had a press briefing Tuesday morning discussing the incident and are gradually releasing information,

according to Matt DuRose, the Detective Commander of the Mankato Department of Public Safety. “I would caution anyone that would say that the residence halls are unsafe because of this one incident,” DuRose said. The university has the primary responsibility in making changes to security on campus, which will be discussed as the incident is solved and con-

cluded. MSU has had a variety of reported incidents last year pertaining to attempted robberies and fleeing suspects into dormitory residences. They have concluded that the suspect is not a student at MSU but is associated with students of MSU. Once the investigation is completed, there will be better grounds to discuss security and the reaction to the inci-

dent. Currently, a good idea of the incident and the investigation of leads are being studied to positively identify the suspect and make an arrest. From the information the department has received, the suspect is not in Mankato presently. If you have any information that may help with the solution to this case you can call Campus Security at 389-2111 or the Mankato Police at 387-8780.

Removing the Winnebago

Professor Chuck Lewis discusses frontier journalism in early Mankato history MEGAN KADLEC

news editor

When students choose to attend Minnesota State University, Mankato, they probably don’t know the city’s history with the Dakota and Winnebago tribes. If they know anything, it’s that 38 Dakota Indians were executed on Dec. 26, 1862 in the United States largest mass execution on record. And the knowledge stops there. This is where Chuck Lewis comes in. A professor of mass media at the university, he has also studied native American history in the region after receiving his Master’s degree in History from MSU. Lewis gave a lecture entitled “Removing the Winnebago: A Tale of Frontier Journalism” Tuesday in the Centennial Student Union ballroom. Before Lewis began speaking, he thanked Director of American Indian Affairs Erin Wilson for giving him the opportunity to speak. He also apologized to the audience in advance for any pronunciation mistakes he may make during his speech. The Dakota conf lict began on Aug. 17, 1862 and ended with the battle of Wood Lake on Sept. 23, 1862. More than 600 Caucasians died during the conf lict, 200 of which most likely died during the

inside: Voices.............................................4 Sports.............................................7 A&E.................................................9 Classifieds...................................11

first day of battle, and more than 300 Dakota Indians were killed as well. “If a similar number of deaths were to occur today, a percentage based on today’s population, we’d be looking at about 15,000 white deaths alone over about a six week period with about 5,000 killed on the first day of the conf lict,” Lewis said. “This was serious business.” During the conf lict, Mankato became a safe haven for more than 3,000 refugees from surrounding towns like New Ulm. While more than 300 Dakota men were condemned to death, most of the death sentences were revoked by United States President Abraham Lincoln. Many white settlers wanted them all to die, though on Dec. 26, only 38 were executed. While Lewis brief ly discussed the six-week Dakota Conf lict of 1862, the main focus of the lecture was on a lesser known Native American tribe in the area: the Winnebago. Unlike the Dakota, who lived more than 30 miles from Mankato, the Winnebago reservation was located less than five miles beyond the city limits. In particular, Lewis discussed the ways in which the two newspapers in Mankato approached the situation in relation to the political ideologies of the newspaper

• web photo This famous image of Dec. 26, 1862’s mass execution was displayed during Chuck Lewis’ lecture, “Removing the Winnebago: A Tale of Frontier Journalism.”

editors. The Mankato Independent, a Republican newspaper, was first published in June 1857 under editor and publisher Clinton Hensley. The Mankato Record, a Democratic Paper, began in July 1859 by editor and publisher John Wise. Both newspapers were extremely biased, and did not hold back their opinions while writing news stories. “Today, we think that political debates maybe get out of hand,” Lewis said. “We look at different news

sources and political commentary and think that there is a lot of polarization in the country, and certainly there is, but there’s nothing new about this.” The extreme biases in newspaper showed when changes occurred in political party majorities in Congress. For example, Wise, the Democratic editor, quotes the Winnebago Indians as being ‘harmless’ during times of Democratic leadership. As soon as the country went back to Republican control, however, he began advocat-

ing for the removal of the Winnebago tribe. Because the Independent and the Record were published solely by white settlers, Native Americans had no place in the newspaper production or consumption. The Winnebago were not quoted in articles, they did not take out advertisements and they did not have subscriptions. While newspaper editors knew of the hardships faced by Native Americans, they did not understand these issues.

Lewis Lecture / page 2

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Page 2 • Reporter

News

Preparing for the MADELINE GREENE | staff writer

Crunch time has officially begun and many college seniors are beginning to panic when they think about what they will be doing once they receive their degree in May. We’ve been involved on campus, we’ve learned time management skills, we have excelled in our classes and have beefed up our resumes. What’s next? Each application process is different and will ask for a different set of documents to be reviewed in deciding if you will be a candidate for a potential position. You may be thinking, “I’ve already spent all of this time working on my resume... what else do I need to do?” Well depending on your major and what kind of career you are preparing for, a resume just may not cut it. Most jobs require you to write a cover letter that accompanies your resume. This is a one-page letter that can help further explain your resume and the skills you did not include on your resume. This letter allows you to tell the employer exactly why you

d l r o W l Rea

Appl icat ions are perfect for the job. I suggest having a generic cover letter that you can personalize for each job application. You want to make sure to include parts of the job description that fit your skills in the best possible way. For example, if they wanted someone who had experience with strategic social media, you could explain all of the skills you have that are connected with social media. This will allow the potential employer to imagine you working at the company. Cover letter templates can be found online but I suggest that you personalize it as much as possible after you have the formatting down. If you are applying to a job that requires you to write a lot, having a clip file or portfolio will be an important part to the application process. I would suggest making a hard copy of your portfolio and place it in a nice binder. You can take this with you to job interviews and show the future employer your writing samples. If you are applying online, I would suggest having an online portfolio. You can do this by using a blog site like WordPress or Blogger and add documents by linking them from the internet site. Either

way, showing published works or your personal blog will allow those potential employers to see your writing style. References. I know this may sound scary. We’ve all had that job where we did not perform to our highest ability or we made a mistake that ultimately lead to a write up or another consequence. I suggest you put references down that know your abilities and will be able to show the good parts of you in a great light while letting the future employer understand that you have made mistakes but the good outshines the bad. I would ask your references if it is okay before giving out their phone number and email address. Most of the time, they do not mind speaking on your behalf, but if they do, at least you asked. I would try to put references from different parts of your life and different roles within jobs and organizations. See you next week, Mavericks. Until then, start preparing your other application materials. The sooner you begin preparing for the application process the better. Just remember to present yourself in the best possible light. You won’t be disappointed that you prepared ahead of time, I promise.

Thursday, February 23, 2012T

LEWIS LECTURE “The Winnebago were not quoted in articles, they did not take out advertisements and they did not have subscriptions.” continued from 1 In addition to biased reporting, Boosterism was also a hallmark of frontier newspapers during this time period. This is the practice of using the newspaper to draw white settlers to the area. The practice was made effective through newspaper exchanges where newspapers would send their issues to other towns and publications across the region, state and even the nation. Lewis said the newspaper used the prospects of large vegetables, available land, and bountiful game in order to entice Caucasians to relocate to Mankato. Mankato was founded in 1852 on the edge of the Western frontier, according to Lewis. During the 10 years following the town’s foundation, Mankato rapidly increased in population and property value. Schools, jails and breweries were established in addition to other

public infrastructure and the expansion of politics. After an extensive campaign supporting the removal of the Winnebago tribe by Caucasian settlers, the Native Americans were forced to leave their home in 1863. Lewis’ lecture was based on an article of the same name published in the January 2011 issue of the journal, Minnesota’s Heritage. The lecture was also presented at the national symposium on 19th Century Press, the Civil War and Free Expression at the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga in November 2009. Lewis’ lecture was the first part in a series remembering the 150th anniversary of the Dakota Conf lict, “Perspectives ‘Through Their Own Eyes.’” The next lecture, to be given by FIRST LAST will take place March 13 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the CSU Ballroom.


Thursday, February 23, 2012

News

Reporter • Page 3

Where do transgendered individuals go to the bathroom?

Gender-neutral bathrooms were topic of discussion at Tuesday lecture ALLISON MATTHEWS

staff writer

Going to public bathrooms is something many people do on a daily basis. For many of those people, walking into public bathrooms is a second-nature routine that may not cross their minds as unsafe. Transgender, gender nonconforming, disabled and caretaking populations, experience the daily fear of harassment, violence and even arrest walking into gendered public bathrooms. Gender Blur hosted Safe Bathrooms for All: A Viewing of “Toilet Training” Video and a Panel Discussion Tuesday in Ostrander Auditorium to tackle the problem of gendered bathrooms and start conversations about the importance of gender-neutral bathrooms. Six panelists discussed issues surrounding gender-neutral bathrooms. LGBT Center Director and Interim Women’s Center Director Jessica Flatequal, LGBT Center Program Coordinator Julia Keleher, Violence Awareness Response Program Coordinator Laura Schultz, Gender Blur

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student leader Maxx Flaa and Director of Disability Services Julie Snow all participated in the panel discussion. A gender-neutral bathroom can consist of placing unisex symbols outside the bathroom or having single-stall bathrooms that lock. Without these unisex bathrooms, transgender and gender nonconforming people have to make decisions about which bathrooms they choose to use and could face harassment or violence. “Gender policing and social policing play a huge role in that,” Keleher said. “We are taught at a very young age that little girls go into the girls room and little boys go into boys room. We see bathrooms as an entirely gendered area.” Other communities such as the caretaking population, which can consist of parents with children or caretakers of people with disabilities also face the dilemma of walking into a gendered bathroom of opposite sex if they are taking care of someone of the opposite sex. The 2003 documentary, “Toilet Training” was shown as a way to provoke thoughts and insights into

• web photo Gender-neutral bathrooms would benefit transgendered and gender nonconforming students, faculty and staff at MSU.

the issue of bathroom equality for the transgender community. Dean Spade helped produce the documentary along with Tara Mateik and the Sylvia Riveria Law Project. Toilet Training gave a glimpse

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into the harsh realities transgender communities face when entering a public bathroom. The documentary suggests for those who haven’t faced the fear of being ridiculed or harassed for being in the “wrong” bathroom to enter a

gendered bathroom of the gender those people do not identify as. In the documentary, Spade, founder of the Sylvia Rivera Law Project, said that one of the biggest concerns surrounding public

Gender Bathrooms / page 5

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WEBB IS TAKING YOU TO COURT! (OKAY, NOT REALLY)

GRACE WEBB

staff writer

The U.S. court system is a beautiful thing. Within federal and state courts, wrongs are righted, criminals are punished and victims receive compensation that helps them move on in their lives. But not every court case is a golden story where justice prevailed. Within the last 35 years, some pretty ridiculous cases have come through the system, and some pretty ridiculous verdicts have been handed down. Here are some of the more frivolous lawsuits that have occurred within the hallowed halls of our U.S. courthouses. 10. A judge in Washington D.C. sued his drycleaners for allegedly returning the wrong pair of pants, thus negating the store’s “satisfaction guarantee.” The judge sued for $67 million in damages (later, he dropped the amount down to $54 million), but he lost his case when the drycleaner successfully convinced the jury that the pants were indeed the judge’s. 9. Lauren Roseberg sued Google maps for giving her faulty and dangerous directions after she followed the suggested route onto a state highway and was struck by a car. Rosenberg was trying to walk from one section of Park City, Utah to another,

and Google’s directions included a half-mile walk down Deer Valley Drive—also called Utah State Route 224. The internet site warned that Route 224 was a major thoroughfare, but Rosenberg continued to walk down the highway until she was hit. She then sued for $100,000. 8. Universal Studios was the subject of a lawsuit after a woman was frightened during a visit to its haunted house during “Halloween Horror Nights.” The woman claimed “emotional distress” after an employee brandishing a chainsaw chased her. She wanted $15,000 in damages, but the jury sided against her. 7. Allen Heckard sued Michael Jordan for resembling him too much. Heckard claimed years of “defamation, permanent injury and emotional pain and suffering” because of how much the two men looked alike—even though Heckard is eight years older and considerably shorter than Jordan. He wanted $416 million from Jordan plus $416 from Nike for compensation. 6. A man from North Carolina insured his 24 rare cigars against fire, then sued his insurance company after he smoked them all. He said he’d lost his cigars “in a series

of small fires” and demanded compensation. The judge decided the insurance company hadn’t been specific enough about what was an unacceptable fire, so the man won and received $15,000. Unfortunately for the plaintiff, the insurance company then had him arrested on 24 counts of arson. Convicted of intentionally burning these near priceless cigars, the plaintiff was sentenced to 24 oneyear prison terms.

5. Ernie Chambers, a senator from Nebraska, tried to sue God in 2007 for “directly and proximately [causing] fearsome floods, egregious earthquakes, horrendous hurricanes, terrifying tornados [and] pestilential plague.” Chambers also accused God of making terroristic threats. The senator said he was bringing the lawsuit to court as a way to fight local laws restricting frivolous lawsuits. Chambers never got to go through with his symbolic rebellion, though, since the judge threw out the case after concluding God had no address and thus could not be served with legal papers. 4. The police force in Madera, California sued the manufacturers of Taser guns after an office accidentally shot and killed a suspect. Officer Marcie Norieg meant to Taser an unruly suspect but

grabbed her gun instead, shooting the suspect in the chest and killing him. The police force claimed that Tasers looked too • web photo similar to No, Milo Stephens you can’t sue after jumping in front of real guns and a subway. What? You can? That doesn’t make sense! thus caused the suspect’s a floodlight. After he managed to death. pass the floodlight to his friends, he headed back to the edge of the 3. Robert Lee Brock took roof but fell through a skylight. frivolous lawsuits to a whole new His injuries were so severe, he belevel when he tried to sue himself came a quadriplegic. He sued for in 1995. After getting arrested for $8 million but settled for $260,000 breaking and entering and grand plus $1,200 a month. larceny, Brock sued himself for violating his civil rights when he “partook in alcoholic bever1. Milo Stephens, Jr. sued the ages and caused himself to get New York City Transit Authority arrested.” He demanded $5 million in 1977 after he was hit by a subin damages, though he asked the way train and suffered injuries. His state of Virginia to pay since he case might have had more merit couldn’t afford the amount himself if he hadn’t jumped in front of while he was in prison. His case the subway train in an attempt to was thrown out. commit suicide. Stephens won his case and was awarded $650,000 in 2. Ricky Bodine sued Enterdamages. Five years later, he tried prise High School in 1982 after he to kill himself by jumping in front fell through the school’s skylight. of another subway. He had climbed on the roof to steal

Q. WHY DID YOU START WORKING FOR THE REPORTER? I decided to start working for the MSU Reporter because I have always liked to write and talk with people on different issues. A little extra cash never hurt my bare college wallet either. Q. WHO DO YOU THINK WILL WIN THE PRESIDENCY IN NOVEMBER? Ron Paul has my vote. He is for the restoration of America and will bring home my highschool friends in the Marines and overseas. Plus, he’s the most consistent in his viewpoints and slow to slander the other candidates. I’d say that’s a win-win! Ron Paul 2012! Q. IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD YOUR SUPER POWER BE?

ELISE KONERZA Assistant News Editor

Time traveling. I’ve always wanted to live in the 1950s and hang out with the Rat Pack. Those dresses were gorgeous, too!

T


Thursday, February 23, 2012

News

GENDER BATHROOMS “Flatequal said that most states do not have laws about whatever bathrooms people must use.”

MSSA reports plans for new building, revises policy CHELSEA MILLER

continued from 3

bathrooms is that often police do not have a complete understanding of bathroom laws. During the panel, students learned about the realities of gendered bathrooms on campus. Flatequal asked students to consider what it would be like to walk across campus to use a single-stall bathroom. During the documentary and discussion, the issue of women’s safety was touched on as one of the biggest proponents against gender-neutral bathrooms. In “Toilet Training,” Spade said that those in opposition often say women are more susceptible to violence in gender-neutral bathrooms. Spade counter-argued that regardless of bathroom signage, by stating that the signage near the door does not function as a lock to that room. “It does a disservice to men to think they would be more likely to harass in a hidden space,” Flatequal said. Schultz added that violence against women, regardless of the location in which the assault occurs, is a much broader issue than restrooms. Schultz said that women are more likely to

Reporter • Page 5

be raped by someone they know rather than a stranger. The fear of a stranger hiding in a bathroom is more unlikely to occur, according to Schultz. Health concerns were another important issue discussed transgender and gender nonconforming people face since many opt out of using public bathrooms. Many transgender or gender nonforming people wait long periods of time to go to the bathroom, so therefore, they can face bladder infections along with other health complications, according to Spade. Flatequal said that many of her friends plan their nights at bars based on the available single-stall bathrooms at establishments Snow said that Minnesota State University, Mankato does provide unisex bathrooms. According to a MSU accessibility map, the campus includes nine unisex bathrooms. The panel discussion highlighted that there is no concrete evidence of people between treated poorly, physically or verbally, in unisex, single-stalled bathrooms. In “Toilet Training,” Spade said that he was arrested in Grand Central Station in New York City

when police believed he was using the wrong bathroom. According to the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, transgendered people in Minnesota are prohibited from receiving discrimination based on their sexual orientation. Flatequal said that most states do not have laws about what bathrooms people must use. However, Flatequal added that sometimes transgender or gender nonconforming are still arrested. Keleher said that allies to transgender communities can be active bystanders by speaking up for those who they see being harassed in or out of bathrooms. Flaa said that everyone has the right to feel safe in bathrooms. Flaa said that a major benefit of gender-neutral bathrooms is that people can use them in peace, especially if they are single-stall bathrooms. Keleher said that transgender and gender nonconforming voices tend to get silenced and that it is important to hear their voices. “Bathrooms are about going to the bathroom,” Flatequal said. “This easily gets misperceived as more radical than it is. People just want to go the bathroom.”

staff writer A report during Wednesday’s meeting detailed plans for a new building to be constructed between Morris Hall and Otto Recreation Center for the college of business. The final housing fair of the year will be Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon. If students are still unsure of where they are going to live next year, or even have questions about current housing, the fair representatives encourage students to attend. Senator Mike Ramirez was elected to the communications board during Wednesday’s meeting, giving him say in deciding the next editor-in-chief for the Reporter. The constitution commission committee was also decided. Part of MSSA’s job is to help revise university policies, and then take a formal stance on the final revisions. During Wednesday’s meeting, the Senate approved 14 policy revisions ranging from University Undergraduate Graduation Requirements to lost and found policies. IMPACT presents “Disney After Dark,” an event in the

lower level of the CSU which will give students a chance to watch some of their favorite Disney movies. While reminiscing, students can partake in Disney crafts, Disney karaoke, bowling and billiards, all while eating free food. The American Indian Association was asked to participate in IMPACT’s event due to the showing of “Pocahontas” and “Peter Pan.” The AIA politely declined this offer saying that they do not agree with Disney and their portrayal of Native people. The African Student Association is hosting “African Night” on March 24th at 6 p.m. The event will cost seven dollars and includes traditional African dance performances and authentic African food. A representative for the event recalled last years night brought in nearly 1,000 guests. Vice President Miles spoke on the annual Nobel Peace Prize forum which will be held in Minneapolis March 1-3. The appearance of spoken word artist Dessa, along with presentations, will help encourage students to get involved in peacemaking.


Page 6 • Reporter

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It’s that time of year again!

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Pitchers and catchers have reported to camp and position players are filtering down to Florida and Arizona for spring training. Baseball season is upon us. The Reporter will get you caught up on all of the offseason activity in Major League Baseball and preview the upcoming season two divisions at a time. Today it’s the AL and NL Central. Enjoy.

AL Central NL Central

REECE HEMMESCH

Detroit Tigers

St. Louis Cardinals

2011 finish: 90-72, NL Wild Card, World Series Champions LEE HANDEL | sports editor New faces: Carlos Beltran OF Key departures: Albert Pujols 1B, Ryan Theriot SS, Edwin Jackson SP, Arthur Rhodes RP and 2011 finish: 95-67, AL Central Champions, Eliminated ALCS Octavio Dotel RP New Faces: Prince Fielder 1B/DH, Gerald Laird C and Octavio Dotel RP Team outlook: The Cards made a magical run to a World Series title last season after squeaking into Key Departures: Magglio Ordonez OF, Carlos Guillen SS and Brad Penny SP the playoffs as the wild card on the final day of the regular season. Clutch playoff performances from Team outlook: The Tigers had one of the most successful offseasons in all of baseball, and staff ace Chris Carpenter and World Series MVP David Freese lifted St. Louis to the top in 2011, and many believe Detroit over-spent for Fielder with his nine year, $214 million contract and the team looks like the favorite to win the NL Central in 2012 despite losing perhaps the best hitter in also gave too many years to the 27-year-old slugger; but the Tigers really wanted to add baseball in Pujols. Perhaps the two biggest departures aren’t even listed above, as Hall of Fame one more big slugger to their squad and they got a great one with that move. The Tigers manager Tony La Russa and pitching coach Dave Duncan both stepped down. Former Cardinals intend to start Miguel Cabrera at third base with the addition of Fielder to the squad, but if catcher Mike Matheny takes over. The Cards will get All-Star starter Adam Wainwright back this Cabrera can’t play the position you might see Fielder moving to the DH spot and Cabrera season, adding to a solid pitching staff. The lineup is still formidable minus Pujols, led by Rafael Furcal, Beltran, Matt Holliday, Lance Berkman and Freese. moving back to first. This would leave a hole at third base that would likely be filled by Projected 2012 finish: 89-73, NL Central Champs either Brandon Inge or Don Kelly, both hitting under .250 last year. Other than that, the

staff writer

Tigers look solid almost everywhere else in the lineup. They lose Ordonez in the outfield, who ended the season hitting just over .250 with five bombs, and Brad Penny, a .500 pitcher with an over 5.00 ERA. Not only do the Tigers win the A.L. Central this year, they do it by more than 15 games once again. Projected 2012 finish: 98-64, AL Central Champs

Cincinnati Reds

2011 finish: 79-83, 3rd in Central New faces: Mat Latos SP, Ryan Ludwick OF, Ryan Madson CL, Sean Marshall RP Key departures: Edinson Volquez SP, Francisco Cordero CL, Ramon Hernandez C, Edgar Renteria SS, Dontrelle Willis SP Cleveland Indians Team outlook: Cincy struggled last season after winning the Central in 2010, but made some big upgrades in the offseason. Latos isn’t a household name after beginning his career with the San Diego Padres, but he is one of the best young starters in the majors and should be the Reds’ staff ace this 2011 finish: 80-82, 2nd in Central New Faces: Casey Kotchman 1B, Derek Lowe SP, Kevin Slowey SP and Jon Garland SP season. Flamethrower Aroldis Chapman will begin the season in the starting rotation to complement Latos and Johnny Cueto. Madson should step in for Cordero as closer, and Marshall is one of the best Key Departures: Jim Thome DH and Kosuke Fukudome OF lefty set-up men in the bigs. The everyday lineup has some holes to fill, but Joey Votto, Jay Bruce, Team outlook: The addition of Kotchman really helps out Cleveland’s batting order, Brandon Phillips, Scott Rolen and Ludwick are quality pieces playing in hitter-friendly Great Amerigiving them another possible .300-plus hitter in the lineup. Last season, Kotchman also can Ballpark. The absence of Pujols and Prince Fielder from the Central also benefits the Redbirds. had a great slugging and on-base percentage. I really like the Derek Lowe move they made Projected 2012 finish: 88-74, NL Wild Card

as well during the offseason. Lowe is still a decent pitcher who simply had a bad 2011, but before that, he’s had a winning season four of the past five years and an ERA over 4.00 only once. He adds experience to the rotation and has to be one of the better five-spot pitchers in the AL Central. The Tribe’s ace on the hill, Ubaldo Jimenez, will have his first full year with the squad and hopes to get back to the form he was at in 2010, and they will need him to do that if they want to finish in front of the Twins. Projected 2012 finish: 82-80, 2nd Central

Pittsburgh Pirates

2011 finish: 72-90, 4th in Central New faces: Casey McGehee 3B, Nate McClouth OF, Clint Barmes SS, Rod Barajas C, A.J. Burnett SP and Erik Bedard SP Key departures: Derrek Lee 1B, Ryan Doumit C, Ludwick OF, Chris Snyder C, Ronny Cedeno SS and Paul Maholm SP Team outlook: The Bucs contended through July last season before completely falling apart in Minnesota Twins August and September. Lee and Ludwick were just trade deadline rentals for the remainder of last season and can be replaced, Doumit never amounted to what the Pirates expected of him and Maholm 2011 finish: 63-99, Last in Central struggled to anchor the starting rotation despite showing some upside initially. Former Pirate New Faces: Ryan Doumit C, Josh Willingham OF, Joel Zumaya RP, Jason Marquis SP and McClouth should improve the top of the batting order and cover a lot of ground along with All-Star Jamey Carroll SS Andrew McCutchen in the outfield. McGehee and Barmes were thrifty pickups who should have Key Departures: Michael Cuddyer OF, Jason Kubel OF, Kevin Slowey SP and Joe Nathan bounce-back years offensively. Burnett and Bedard should both benefit from facing National League lineups and excel if healthy. Closer Joel Hanrahan is one of the best in the business, and manager CL Clint Hurdle should have the Pirates playing fundamental ball again this season. Team outlook: The big pickup for the Twinkies this offseason was acquiring Josh Projected 2012 finish: 77-85, 3rd Central Willingham from the A’s. Willingham is a decent outfielder that can add another 25 or so

homeruns to the lineup and should fill Cuddyer’s shoes well. The Twins fortunes this year will be determined by how healthy they stay. If Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau can keep themselves healthy during the long season, the Twins could be OK. Another good move they made in the offseason was picking up catcher Ryan Doumit, who is a great fit to back up both Mauer and Morneau when they need their rest. The Twins’ Achilles heel will definitely be the middle of the infield, where Jamey Carroll, a 38-year-old .280-lifetime hitter who has amassed 12 homeruns in his 10-year career, will join Alexi Casilla up the middle with Tsuyoshi Nishioka backing them up. The Twins finish third not because of their strength, but because of the rest of the division’s weaknesses. Projected 2012 finish: 76-86, 3rd Central

Chicago White Sox AL Central / page 8

Milwaukee Brewers 2011 finish: 96-66, NL Central Champs, Eliminated NLCS New faces: Aramis Ramirez 3B, Norichika Aoki OF, Alex Gonzalez SS and Travis Ishikawa 1B Key departures: Prince Fielder 1B, Yuniesky Betancourt SS, Mark Kotsay OF, McGehee 3B, Jerry Hairston Jr. OF, Takashi Saito RP and LaTroy Hawkins RP Team outlook: The Brew Crew suffered a BIG loss when Fielder signed with the Detroit Tigers this winter. Not only did they lose his bat in the lineup, but also his presence in the clubhouse that seemed to fuel his former ‘mates. Combine the loss of Prince with NL MVP Ryan Braun’s looming 50-game suspension for testing positive for HGH and it was a pretty painful offseason for Brewers fans. Ramirez is a solid pickup, but he is injury-prone and will have little around him, aside from Rickie Weeks, until Braun returns. Aoki could be the next Nishi, and Gonzalez could be a downgrade at short. Yovani Gallardo, Zack Greinke and closer John Axford should keep the Crew afloat until Braun returns, but it will be interesting to see how outfielders Nyjer “T-Plush” Morgan, Carlos Gomez and

NL Central / page 8


Page 8 • Reporter

Sports

AL Central continued from 7 2011 finish: 79-83, 3rd in Central New Faces: Fukudome OF Key Departures: Mark Buehrle SP, Juan Pierre OF, Carlos Quentin OF and Sergio Santos CL Team outlook: Managerial rookie Robin Ventura and the White Sox had one of the most miserable offseasons in the A.L. Central, if not the entire American League this past year. The departure of ace Mark Buehrle left the ChiSox pitching rotation helpless. Gavin Floyd and John Danks are not one and two guys, add in Phillip Humber and Jake Peavy and you got Chi-Town’s pathetic excuse for a starting rotation. Their outfield is also slim due to the departure of Juan Pierre, who is one of the most underrated players in the game. Pierre is a career .296 hitter with great speed and a great glove, and is a solid leadoff man or nine-hitter. The South Siders have replaced him and Carlos Quentin with two no-name outfielders to assist Alex Rios in their bleak outfield. Sorry Robin, your squad’s not doing it this year. Projected 2012 finish: 72-90, 4th Central Kansas City Royals 2011 finish: 71-91, 4th in Central New Faces: Jonathan Sanchez SP and Jonathan Broxton RP Key Departures: Melky Cabrera OF and Jeff Francis SP Team outlook: Kansas City has recently been one of the few teams trying to bulk up its minor league system and develop its own players. There is no problem with this, except this year will not be the year the Royals bust out. Even though last year was their first year out of the cellar in the Central in ages, they still have too many question marks to avoid it again. Almost all of their pitchers had over a 4.00 ERA last season, and their pen isn’t much better. Their lineup consists of about four or five players who could really bust out this season and get the squad some runs, but I don’t see their pitching staff shutting anyone down and getting those hard-fought wins. Projected 2012 finish: 66-96, Last Central

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NL Central

Corey Hart hit without the threat of Fielder in the lineup. Projected 2012 finish: 76-86, 4th Central

continued from 7

Chicago Cubs 2011 finish: 71-91, 5th in Central New faces: David DeJesus OF, Ian Stewart 3B, Anthony Rizzo 1B, Paul Maholm SP, Chris Volstad SP and Manny Corpas RP Key departures: Ramirez 3B, Carlos Pena 1B, Carlos Zambrano SP, Marshall RP, John Grabow RP and Tyler Colvin OF Team outlook: The Friendly Confines likely won’t play host to many Cub wins this season, but Theo Epstein’s arrival gives this organization hope for the future. The Cubbies finally cured themselves of the cancer that is Zambrano, but losing Ramirez and Marshall will hurt. The pitching staff will be adequate with Ryan Dempster and Matt Garza leading the way and Kerry Wood and Carlos Marmol on the back end, but the middle relief is garbage yet again. Starlin Castro and Alfonso Soriano are the big names on offense. Projected 2012 finish: 73-89, 5th Central

Houston Astros 2011 finish: 56-106, Last in Central New faces: Jack Cust OF, Jed Lowrie SS, Livan Hernandez SP and Snyder C Key departures: Barmes SS and Mark Melancon RP Team outlook: Things could get even uglier for the ‘Stros this season, as they are trying to rebuild not for next season, but for possibly five years down the road. It could be awhile until Houston is relevant again, especially with its imminent move to the American League West. Cust is a DH playing in the NL, Lowrie was a nice find and you can rest assured Carlos Lee, Wandy Rodriguez, Brett Myers and Hernandez will be playing with hopes of getting moved at the trade deadline this season. Projected 2012 finish: 51-111, Last Central

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A&E

Hildebrandt took the prize for Winner! Trevor answering the riddle first. Congrats. What is it that’s yours, but everyone else uses more than you?

Your Name.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Read next week for a new riddle and a new chance to win.

Know Any Professional Wrestlers In India

www.msureporter.com/arts-entertainment

Who Graduated From MSU? EMRE ERKU

staff writer

M

innesota State University, Mankato’s own freshly graduated student, Ariya Daivari, has been making the best of his time as a post-grad. He’s been exuding his acrobatic skills as a professional independent contract wrestler, wresting for entities such as Ring Ka King and Impact wrestling, both affiliates of Total Nonstop Wrestling or TNA for short. Also, this post-Mav has been grappling with greats such as Road Dog, Billy Gun, Scotty 2 Hotty, and the ever so gigantic Rikishi, all big names in the wrestling world. And as for going places, wrestling has taken Daivari far and wide. Even just this last month, Daivari was hired out to perform all the way in the country of India. That’s right, India. In the city of Pune, a place with more than three million habitants, Daivari had the opportunity to perform in front of a crowd that has never even seen wrestling before. Pune’s people were ecstatic. “The crowd was crazy psyched because there isn’t any live wrestling in India. It was their first exposure to live professional wrestling, so they were real rowdy” said Daivari, explaining the enthusiasm of Pune’s people when the show started. “I was really excited, too. It was the biggest thing I’ve ever done. It was on Indian national television, Colors TV, the Indian equivalent to NBC.” But even through all the positive exposure there came waves of uncertain vibrations. India is still a country of low or no exposure

“Traffic there was insane. How people drive, is nuts. No stop lights, families on motorcycles. I saw a mother, a father, and two kids on one motorcycle. I saw it all the time, the bobbing and weaving through traffic was quite common. At one point I saw a baby riding on the handle bars of a small taxi motorcycle. I sat on a taxi once and only once,” Daivari explained. But the terrifying traffic doesn’t speak for the people of Pune. Instead, levels of extreme hospitality represent the culture, and even though there’s high levels of overpopulation and lack of jobs, Pune’s people made it their duty to make the stay more than comfortable. “The people served us hand over foot. It’s so overpopulated that every job, even the small ones, are up for grabs. There was even an employee manning a small drink cooler backstage at the show. They made sure that we didn’t have to do anything. They went out of their way for hospitality,” said Daivari. Regardless, the overall the experience for Daivari was a great stride taken in the efforts put forth towards his career. He got to travel the world and experience something new, and India was a great place to do so. Apart from his trip, Daivari has been wrestling at venues all over the North America. He’s performed in Wisconsin, Iowa, North and South Dakota, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, California, and even up and down Canada. Not bad for an MSU alum. He’s even performed at the legendary First Avenue in downtown Minneapolis. So watch out John Cena, a Maverick is about to give you the horns.

Now You Do to the presence of giant cyborg wrestlers from the U.S. Daivari explained more, “When we arrived everyone looked at us, they were constantly starring. We were physically bigger than they were, just giants.” This sparks great interest because not only did Daivari get paid to do something that he loves, he experienced a place that many of us will never get the chance to experience (and he’s a Maverick!). First, a couple long international flights to get Mumbai, a major Indian hub city. Second, an amassed greeting by Indian locals. And third, performing in front of a crowd who, even though were astounded by the act, have never seen it before. And it’s not just that, Daivari experienced the sights and the sounds of Hindi speaking streets.

• still frames by emre erku

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance Thhhhhppppt! ANDREW SIMON

G

host Rider: Spirit of staff writer Vengeance is embarrassing. The movie, a sequel/remake hybrid to the 2007 production, is off-the-wall crazy, and not in the fun and enjoyable way. From the action to the performances and barebones ‘story’, it’s a live action cartoon sporting zero substance. With the exception of nifty, rather impressive camerawork, there is no redeeming value to be found. This isn’t Ghost Rider as the character should be seen; this is a failed attempt

to make a product superior to the Mark Steven Johnson-directed flick. If anything, Marvel has successfully sealed Ghost Rider in his coffin for years to come, and pooped out the worst Marvel movie ever made. The thin story is this: there’s a kid, and the Devil wants this kid for some big evil ritual of evilness, and wine-drinking Moreau recruits tormented and secluded Johnny Blaze to save the kid from becoming full-on evil, and in return, that pesky Ghost Rider curse of his will be lifted. And there are some bad guys

after Blaze, of course, because there needed to be somebody for Ghost Rider to crash cars with and threaten with his skully glare. Thing is, there is nothing more to character or story outside of that quickly written synopsis. Within those two sentences holds the exact same amount of plot and characterization in the movie. So with a script that offers next to nothing, luckily acting legends like Johnny Cage, Idris Alba, Christopher Lambert, and

NICKY CAGE / page 10


Page 10 • Reporter

A&E

Thursday, February 23, 2012

NICKY CAGE “Cage is at his absolute craziest, his performance is an exact retread of those hilarious YouTube compilations videos circulating around the net.” continued from 9 Ciaran Hinds could hold this movie together. Turns out, no dice. Cage is at his absolute craziest, his performance is an exact retread of those hilarious YouTube compilations videos circulating around the net. Not one line is spoken with conviction or effort. It’s as if the directors asked nothing of Cage but to act crazier, be more intense, let loose. One memorable scene features Blaze ‘interrogating’ a Bad Guy, and accomplishes this by lots and lots of yelling and a performance taken right out of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Ciaran Hinds, who has no shortage of talent (see HBO’s Rome), instead appears constipated every shot, trying to remember his lines. Idris Alba has made quite the name for himself as a competent actor, so his time here can best be chalked up to needing a paycheck for rent, because he certainly puts no effort into any of his scenes. That said, he is the most charismatic actor in this movie. The roles of The Kid and the Bad Guy have no meat or substance to them, and the actors – Fergus Riordan and Johnny Whitworth, respectively – portray them as such. The directing team of Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor (Crank, Gamer) make quite the name for themselves with their unorthodox means for achieving kinetic, unique shots. There are definitely some shots in the movie that could have been pleasing, but there isn’t

one second where the camera isn’t moving to allow audiences to appreciate their work. For anyone who complained about the handheld camerawork of the Paul Greengrass Jason Bourne movies, Spirit of Vengeance is exponetially worse. A visual messy of •web photo shakiness. The action scenes aren’t even that fun to watch. The good news is that there’s plenty of action, the bad news is that each set piece is a regurgitation of what came before: there’s lots of explosions and over turned cars, and that’s about it. Ghost Rider, the very reason money was spent to see the movie, hardly comes off as an imposing force, instead more of a less talkative and very much on fire Freddy Kruger. To strip the movie down to its bare essence, and wonder, at the very least, is it a fun experience? No. This movie is an embarrassment. Fans of comic book movies will hold up their hands in apology for everyone leaving the theater, saying that Marvel actually does make good movies and this should not deter them from ever seeing another superhero film. Nic Cage’s shtick is redundant and is past its welcome, and this sequel/remake is as heartless and

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uninspired like his performance as the titular character. More than that, though, with such low expectations after the 2007 critical misfire original, Spirit of Vengeance could have been something great, defying all expectations and becoming a dark, nuanced, spectacular ride. That said, unless there is a bewildering, original, can’t-refuse reason to resurrect Ghost Rider for a third outing, by no means should the character return – and especially at the hands of Neveldine/Taylor.

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Thursday, February 23, 2012

Classifieds

Reporter • Page 11

Automotive

For Rent

Help Wanted

Notices

Sublease

24’ PARE AMERICAN CAR TRAILER Roof damaged by snow. Sealed Bid Auction. Contact 507-389-1176 or see Craigslist ad for picture. or e-mail for a Bid Slip paul.steevens@mnsu.edu. 2/23

1 YEAR OLD TOWNHOMES for rent. 5 bedrooms. Call 501-995-5300 for more information. 3/29 LEASING FOR FALL FOUR BEDROOM town homes one block from campus. Off-street parking for tenants. Each unit has four bedrooms, two baths, washer/dryer, air conditioning, dishwasher. $1400 a month rent - No smoking, No pets, only two remaining. Call 507-327-5699 for viewing. 2/23 AGENCY TOWNHOMES FOR FALL 2012 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath. Attached 1-2 stall garage- close to MSU - pets OK $1600 per month plus utilities. Judy 507-340-7848. 2/28 LOOKING FOR A 3 BED? AVAILABLE 8-1-12, TILED BATHROOM, LAUNDRY ON SITE, DISHWASHER, PLENTY OF LIVING SPACE. $975 PLUS UTILITIES, CALL JEREMY FOR SHOWING 507-351-5192. 2/28 WWW.USQUAREMAN KATO.CO M Across from the Taylor Center. 3 & 4 bedroom apartments available August 2012. Free DTV, Internet, & Water. Call 507-385-7977 or Text 507-382-8350 for pricing/tour. 3/1 TWO ROOMS FOR RENT IN A 4 BEDROOM home close to MSU. Prefer graduate students or professionals, full furnished, own room with individual locks. Washer/dryer $325/month, Utilities included, no pets or party. Please contact: mnwest2012@gmail. 3/13 com (734) 658-0023.

STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid survey takers needed in Mankato. 100% free to join! Click on surveys. 4/26 CHOPPERS BAR & GRILL hiring parttime bartenders and security. Apply in person. 3/1

FREE SHOTOKAN KARATE classes offered Mon/Thurs 6-8 pm, Tues 7-9 pm, Room PH 102. Beginners are welcome. Need not be a MSU student to join. For info call Brad @ 507388-5301 or lostgonzo@gmail.com or search MSU Shotokan on facebook or yahoo groups. 4/26

LOOKING FOR FEMALE Subleaser. Starting August 2012. Call 507-3822/23 9372. STADIUM APTS. WALKING distance to MNSU. Free cable/internet/water/ parking. Bus Route. $315.00. 507-2199528. 2/23 BEDROOM FOR RENT ASAP FOR male. Available until July. Price can be negotiated. Call 320-309-3791. UTN

For Rent

Find a Place to Rent or Post Listings at RadRenter.com Southern Minnesota’s Rental Listing Website. 4/26 WWW.COLLEGETOWNMANKATO. COM Brand new rental cottages, each bedroom has a full private bath. Clubhouse with all the amenities. 4/26 WWW.RENTMSU.COM 3-10 Bedroom houses, multiple locations, 65+ houses to choose from. 4/26 W W W . COLLEGESTATIONMANKATO.COM 1-5 Bedroom options. Affordable living, free parking, on bus route. 4/26 1,2,4 BEDROOM APARTMENT/ House garage available. Close to MSU. Available July 1 2012. Call Scott for showing at 507-951-1974. 3/13 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 507625-1010. 6/20 CEDAR MEADOW APARTMENTS for fall 2012. 3 bedroom apartments in new energy efficient building. $915 per month plus free cable and internet call 507327-2831 cedarmeadowapartments. 3/1 com. 4 AND 5 BEDROOMS-ALL Utilities included in rent. Call 507-995-5300 for more information. 3/29

Miscellaneous SPRING BREAK IN CANCUN? Resort with ocean view, one-week stay, sleep four, small kitchen, as low as $250/ person, all-inclusive extra, call Mike or Michelle @ 507-387-4031 for details, or visit www.royalsunset.com to see photos. 3/1 SECONDHAND BOOKSTORE & exchange, south front st. across from fillin’ station coffee house, all types of leisure reading. Browsers welcome. Once Read 388-8144, Mon-Sat 10-5. 2/23

AVAILABLE 8-1-2012 2 FEMALE to share 5 bedroom & 2 1/2 bath home with female college students. 232 Thayer across the street from the Performing Arts Center. C/A, W/D off street parking individual leases, all utilities paid including TV and Int. 1 bedroom is the entire 2nd floor, with walk in closet, study area and your own half bath, $465. 1 lower level bedroom $385. Call 386-0236 for showing. 3/29 AVAILABLE 8-1-2012 2 FEMALE to share 5 bedroom 3 bath home with female college students. Located at 823 North 6th st. Individual leases, W/D, C/A, off street parking $405 per month includes all utilities, TV and Int. Call 386-0236 for showing. 3/29

5 BEDROOM TOWNHOMES Central air, washer/dryer, dishwasher included. Rent $375 utilities not included. Call for appointment to see.

Help Wanted BARTENDERS WANTED! $250/ day potential. No experience necessary. Training available. Age 18+ OK. (800)965-6520 Ext 170. 5/23

Roommates Wanted

144 Balcerzak Drive Office: (507) 625-8236 | Tony: (507) 420-6029 | Betty: (507) 995-8441

Renting for August 1st 4 BEDROOM HOUSE Washer, dryer, garage. $1280 + utilities. 3+ BEDROOM HOUSE Washer, dryer, off-street parking. $995 + utilities.

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PAN AFRICAN STUDENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

February 23-25, 2012 "Recognizing and Celebrating Pan Africans in the Global Society" Guest Speakers: Featuring: • Educational Sessions and Inspiriational Speakers • Mr. and Ms. Pan African Talent Ceremony A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. Minnesota State University, Mankato is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity University. Individuals with a disability who need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this event, please contact Institutional Diversity at 507-389-5268 (V), 800-6273529 or 711 (MRS/TTY) at least five days prior to the event. This document is available in alternative format to individuals with disabilities by calling the above numbers. INDV161PO


Page 12 • Reporter

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