April 5, 2012 by MSU Reporter

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MSSA discusses future marketing plans

With general elections on Tuesday, campaign strategies come under question

megan kadlec • msu reporter Posters for the MSSA General Election can be found across campus, but are they effective in getting students to vote? ALLISON MATTHEWS

staff writer As the school year winds down, the student Senate is looking toward the future of marketing strategies for the upcoming 80th Minnesota State Student Association. By being the “voice for students” at Minnesota State University, Mankato, MSSA is now seeking more student opinion to not only improve marketing strategies but the overall student perception for the 80th MSSA. Students may not be fully familiar or even aware of MSSA. Students are often

confused on what the student Senate really does for MSU. It is not uncommon to hear, “What is MSSA?” from students. Students have the opportunity to express their voices in voting in the April 10 MSSA general elections. From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., voting is open for executive positions and senators for MSSA. In addition, students can vote on the Green Transportation Fee and Centennial Student Union board members. The presidential candidates for the 80th MSSA are Soyal Shrestha and

Mike Ramirez. Shrestha is a senator for the College of Science, Engineering and Technology for the 79th MSSA, while Ramirez is an Off-Campus senator. David Schieler is running for Vice President. Both Ramirez and Schieler are running under the “Maverick Ticket” along with a slew of other candidates for senator positions. Shrestha is running as an independent party. Candidates are utilizing more communication techniques to get students excited about elections. One of the main strategies for all

candidates is to make more personal connections with students. The posters splattered across almost every pillar and wall on campus is one of the first marketing strategies for candidates to get their names out in the open. Shrestha said the posters are meant for students to start thinking and asking about MSSA. Ramirez said that it is easy get lost in a poster haze. “Posters aren’t going to get people elected. If they can put a face to that poster, that speaks volumes for people,” Ramirez said. Shrestha said the MSSA acts in many ways as a parent or guardian for students. “We’re concerned about student problems. If they tell us what to do, we can do things,“ Shrestha said. Ramirez said he plans to personally talk with students around campus. One of his main goals is sitting down with students and having face-to-face conversations. Ramirez said he would like to have Senate grill sessions consistently each semester during the next academic year. Shrestha plans to make the same connections through numerous visits to athletic teams and Recognized Student Organizations to get the word out on elections. Thirty-eight students are slated to run for 26 available

sentator positions available. In 2011, four students ran for president and three students ran for vice-president. One of the main concerns about the upcoming elections is how to increase voter turnout. “If somebody could figure out how to get students to vote, they would be president tomorrow,” Arts and Humanities Sen. David Rosencrance said. “All the posters I put up… ‘I want people to see what it is and ask what it is and ask me now, ‘What are these posters, What is MSSA?’ A lot of people don’t know what MSSA is,” Shrestha said. Rosencrance said that one of the best ways to get students’ attention is to put a “face” to MSSA and make the inner-workings of the student Senate a real thing for students and not just something they read about. “Getting students excited about the MSSA sometimes feels as successful as the C-SPAN channel is action filled,” Schieler said. To achieve more transparency and student interest, Ramirez says that the Senate needs to break down the details for students to better understand how everything works. “The problem is clear – communication,” Shrestha said. “Student government

Marketing / page 4

Symposium celebrates research, creative works

MEGAN KADLEC

news editor

Monday marks the 14th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, an event dedicated to the showcase of undergraduate research, scholarship and creative activity from across disciplines. More than 170 research projects will be presented by more than 270 students and 83 faculty members at the

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

symposium, located in the Centennial Student Union at Minnesota State University, Mankato. The event is coordinated by Cindra Kamphoff, professor of sport and exercise psychology at MSU, with help from the Undergraduate Research Council and the Undergraduate Research Center. “I think undergraduate research has really become

institutionalized here,” Kamphoff said. “It’s part of culture, due to the establishment of the Undergraduate Research Center.” A testament to the institutionalization of research at MSU is the fact that the number of students participating in research projects has increased in recent years. The event, formerly known as the Undergraduate Research Conference, was

often confused with the Undergraduate Research Center, as the same acronym was used for each. This year, Kamphoff decided to change the name of the event in order to make a distinction between the center and the conference, though she said the event is still the same. The Undergraduate Research Center provides students with information

about research grants, advice for finding a faculty mentor, and information on summer internships and peer reviewed journals. Kamphoff said that the center facilitates everything regarding undergraduate research at MSU. “I think [undergraduate research] can launch your life. I’ve been mentoring undergraduate students who

Symposium / page 3

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Thursday, April 5, 2012T

Thursday, April 5, 2012

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SYMPOSIUM “We’re really intentional about saying research and creative works because research, particularly on campus here, is defined broadly.”

Preparing for the MADELINE GREENE | staff writer

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rather than just lab research. The symposium also includes the creative works of many students. “We’re really intentional about saying research and creative works because research, particularly on campus here, is defined broadly,” said Kamphoff. “It doesn’t necessarily always have to be survey collection or lab research.” Student research projects focus on a wide range of issues from Nathan Gozalez and Kali Trukia determining the effects of strontium on the bone density of mice, to Tiffany Ramweiler’s research on the perception of modern Dakota culture in the Mankato area. “Through communication and education, we can move toward a better understanding of one of Minnesota’s important cultures, and a better understanding of each other,” said Ranweiler. The symposium is free and open to the public, and will begin with poster and oral presentation sessions from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday. Creative submissions will be on display in the CSU gallery from 7 to 9 p.m. the same evening. Kamphoff said that they are still looking for faculty judges and that interested parties should email urc@ mnsu.edu. In addition, a full schedule of sessions can be found at the URC’s website.

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Interviews: Part Two

continued from 1 have been getting involved in research,” Kamphoff said. “That’s why I decided to coordinate the symposium this year, because I’ve seen the transformation [research] has had on student’s lives.” Students who participate in undergraduate research are more likely to stay at MSU based on a one-on-one connection with a faculty mentor. In previous years, the event was scheduled for one and a half days; this year, however, the entire event is scheduled into one day. In addition, the session times were shortened to one hour. Each session includes four oral presentations that will last roughly 15 minutes each. There will also be two poster sessions in the ballroom. “We made these changes to make it more accommodating for people to come and observe and listen,” said Kamphoff. Attendees of the event can expect to learn about different research projects from departments in all of the colleges at MSU. “I think community members and students can learn about new topics and really be able to see the cool things that are going on at MSU,” Kamphoff said. While the symposium focuses on research, the coordinators of the event are quick to say that the event encompasses all possible forms of research at MSU

Reporter • Page 3

You’ve been waiting for weeks to hear back from a company you applied to. Finally, they call! An interview is set for next week and you are so excited. You spend hours in front of your closet, narrowing down the outfit choices so that you can make the best first impression. Then it hits you: you may be prepared because you have a perfect interview outfit, but once you get there, how prepared are you for the actual interview? There are many ways that you can prepare for an interview in a week’s time. Even if your interview is sooner than a week, there are still some things you can do to make sure you are prepared as possible. First, bringing a copy of your resume and references is always a good idea. If for some reason the interviewer has misplaced your resume, it is good to have one on hand. They may not have asked for references initially, so having a copy

is a good rule of thumb. Some employers ask for a one-page resume, so sometimes you have to leave experience off the original resume. It may be beneficial to have the extended version with you, just in case they ask questions that relate to certain experience that you did not list on your one-page resume. If you get nervous, like I do, you could forget important details that may be the deciding factor in your job search. Having your resume in front of you is like a cheat sheet and may decrease your nerves. Second, looking over the job description before the interview and relating your personal experiences to the qualifications will set you up for success. If you already have a basis of what you could bring to the position, there will be less awkward silences and times where you have to really think about what you want to say. The more planning you do before hand, the better. If there are qualifications that you do not have that are listed in the job description, you can explain to the employer ways that you can make up for not

having that experience or ways you intend to work toward gaining that experience. Third, it is really important to be yourself. Even if it isn’t always exactly what the employer wants, at least you know that you did not compromise whom you are to land a job. If you have to fake it in an interview, that means you’ll have to fake it when you get the job. Be honest and if they hire you, you’ll know it is because you were what they wanted. The happier you are at work, the more you will enjoy your job. And that is really important. Lastly, look up interview questions online or head to the Career Development Center to find assistance when preparing for your interview. After your interview is over, write down the questions you were asked and how you answered. If you don’t get this job, at least you’ll have a basis for the type of questions an employer might ask at your next interview. See you next week, Mavericks. Until then, prepare for your interviews. It’ll all be worth it once you land your dream job. I promise.

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MSSA MARKETING “There’s one thing we’re not so hot at, and that’s marketing the Senate.” continued from 1 topics seem to cause students eyes to glaze over,” Schieler said. “But where most people might say that we should then work harder to educate the students about what those confusing topics are, I suggest we work more on topics that the students can directly relate to. If students really want something, anything they should tell their academic or student affairs Senator.” Vice President Moriah Miles said that she is stressing to the 80th MSSA that a marketing/communications internship or volunteer position must be available and filled throughout the year. The 79th MSSA began the 2011-2012 academic year seeking to amplify its marketing strategies through numerous attempts to gauge student interest. The Senate transformed its approach by rebranding to become the “voice for students” in fall 2011. Through events that brought students and senators together such as the Sen-

ate Panel after Spring Break and eating s’mores with students in the CSU mall in the fall, MSSA is now looking at student feedback to make the 80th student Senate even better. “There’s one thing we’re not so hot at, and that’s marketing the Senate,” said President Matthew Lexcen. “We need your suggestions on how best to do that, because sometimes the all-student email, table in the CSU or f lyers around campus just don’t cut it. The first step to make the 80th MSSA a more transparent, a more well known and a more inclusive body for students is to vote. “Take a vested interest in where your money is going,” Lexcen said. “Go to the debates. Ask questions. These people represent your interests, both here and at the state level. Best way to make sure your best represented is to vote. Or run yourself. Either works.”

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Thursday, April 5, 2012

Nearly naked run

Students came together to take it off, give it up and run a mile

elise konerza • msu reporter MEGAN KADLEC

news editor

Wednesday night, more than 85 students gathered outside the Centennial Student Union by the fountain took it off, gave it up and ran a mile. Students across the Minnesota State University, Mankato campus came together in order to donate gently-used clothing to Again Thrift and More. MSU’s student-run public relations firm, Expertise PR and Wiggio.com, teamed up to put on the event in order to benefit local community members who rely on organizations like Again Thrift and More for reasonable prices on gentlyused clothing. Last year, more than 55 universities across the country

participated in the first annual Nearly Naked Run. “We participated in the event last year and we had a lot of fun,” said Expertise PR Account Executive Ashley Zilka. Ten students with the top running times received a free t-shirt and bragging rights. Again Thrift and More is part of the Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC), a community action agency. Heather Condon, the manager at Again Thrift and More, said that the event is the perfect way for the story to keep their donations up while also getting exposure in the community. “You can’t tell me there’s anyone who is not having fun right now,” Condon said.

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Reporter • Page 5

Indian culture comes alive at MSU

Annual Indian Night to be held Saturday, expected to sell out

Students perform at last year’s Indian Night. STEVEN VANG

staff writer The fourth annual Indian Night is expected to be jam packed with Bollywood performances, accompanied with authentic Indian foods. Organizers of the Saturday night show also expect it to be sold out. “Last year people had to go back home because we didn’t have tickets left for them and we didn’t have enough food for everyone,” said Minnesota State University, Mankato student

Deepika Agrawal. More than 450 people are expected to attend this year’s event along with President Richard Davenport and his wife. Guests of all ages are welcomed and will be encouraged to participate while learning about the Indian culture. “Our goal is to have people from all cultures on stage. One thing that we’ll be doing more this year is to include more audience interaction with more games and encouragement

at dancing because all the other nights, the boys never want to dance but I feel like Indian Night, the boys are better dancers than us,” said Agrawal. A fashion show displaying the outfits of India will also be included in the entertainment line-up. In the past this has been a successful attraction among attendees and non-Indian participants. “The one thing that appeals to most people is that it’s not just for one group of steven vang • msu reporter student or international students, but it includes people to get audience members from all cultures and ages. to come on stage,” said It’s more about sharing the Agrawal. culture,” said Agrawal. An all-you-can-eat buffet All aspect of the event with about seven dishes inare planned to glamourcluding rice pudding, curry ize the night. Everything and traditional appetizers from the f loor and projecwill open the night at 6 tor screens in the newly p.m. The national anthem of renovated ballroom will be India will be sung to open utilized to be a very apup the acts; performances pealing to audience memwill showcase individuals bers. Decorators also have of all culture, gender and a surprise for attendees of acts from songs to dancing. Indian Night and weren’t “Honestly, our night is willing to reveal details probably the only night beforehand. where the boys beat girls “The backdrop will be

something that has never been done before,” said Ranaveer Aelgani. Members of the Student Association of India (SAI) and International Student Association (ISA) will be selling tickets throughout week prior to the night of the event. Advance tickets sell for $6 to MSU students and $8 at the door for those waiting to make last-minute decisions to attend the event. Both Aelgani and Agrawal warn that based on the event’s past attendance and loyal audience members who have been anxiously waiting for the next Indian Night, the chances of available seats and tickets will be very slim.

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Thursday, April 5, 2012

Going green for more green EDITORIAL

reporter staff The “Green Transportation Fee” has grabbed the focus of attention of many during this year’s MSSA election. The proposal brings forth a brighter initiative to lower student expenses and promote Minnesota State University, Mankato as an environmentally conscious campus. The fee would impose an activity fee increase of 75 cents per credit hour, or roughly $9 per semester. If the fee were to be passed, an estimated $262,500 is expected to be produced annually, serving the improvement of the bus service.

If the proposal is passed, bus passes would finally be a thing of the past. A MavCard will become the “ticket to ride” anywhere in the Cities of Mankato and North Mankato. Ridership would increase, reducing the problem of pressure to park in the already severely populated parking lots. The Stomper Express (Route 11) makes direct runs to WalMart, River Hills Mall, Old Navy and back to campus, and is heavily used by residence hall students and international students. The passed fee would expand nighttime coverage, 6 p.m. - 11 p.m., from three days to six days, making it more accessible for students to run their

errands. Bike racks that are currently on campus now would increase exponentially to 1,092 total spots, encouraging students to bike to campus, actively taking a green initiative on a personal student level and exercising a healthy form of transportation. The “Green Transportation Fee” will be on the MSSA General Election ballot April 10 and must gain 50 percent of the voter percentage in order to pass. The fee will only help rather than hinder MSU’s attempts to sustain and maintain environmental impacts in Mankato, keeping the student’s expenses in mind and minimal.

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staff writer Students will have the opportunity to eat breakfast and meet with Minnesota Legislators in the Centennial Student Union Hearth Lounge from 10:30 a.m. to noon Friday. Minnesota House of Representatives Kathy Brynaert and Terry Morrow along with State Sen. Kathy Sheran will be in attendance, ready to engage with Minnesota State University, Mankato students. Minnesota State University Student Association Legislative Affairs Coordinator David Rosencrance says that the Voter ID Bill, textbook costs and the escalating price of college tuition are hot-button issues for higher

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education. “As a member of the House Higher Education committee, I am very interested to learn about the questions, concerns, and ideas that MSU students have,” Morrow said. “Certainly issues of concern that we might normally hear from students about such as tuition, text books and veterans benefits might likely be discussed,” Brynaert said. ‘But my goal is open and broad and that is to discuss the issues of concern that the students bring to us.” The breakfast event is a venue for students to express their concerns and have face-to-face conversations with Legislators who play a role in the development of higher education.

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Sports Thursday, April 5, 2012

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Erickson sisters relish playing together one last time JOEY DENTON

staff writer

Back in the fall of 2010, the Minnesota State, Mankato softball team reunited a dominant sister tandem that was destined to give NSIC foes fits for the next two seasons, bringing in the second half of the Erickson duo. With freshman Lindsay Erickson joining her sister, junior outfielder Chelsea, the Mavericks became even more lethal last season en route to a 54-16 overall record. The duo did a lot of damage to opposing NSIC teams last season, but their roles on the team have expanded this season, and the Big Lake, Minn. natives plan on doing even bigger things this spring. The Erickson’s got the chance to play in high school together at Big Lake, and they made two deep runs in the state tournament, placing fourth in Chelsea’s junior season and third in her senior season. Chelsea was thankful to have Lindsay on the high school squad before she graduated. “It was so much fun. We worked really well together,” Chelsea said. Though not always the case with some sisters who have to share the same high school hallways, Lindsay thought the same thing. “It was great playing with my sister Chelsea. We had a great chemistry between us,” Lindsay said. “I caught her while she pitched, so we worked really well together.” Once the eldest Erickson graduated from Big Lake, it was time for the two-time All-State

selection to decide which school she was going to play for, and it’s safe to say MSU is grateful she chose to come to Mankato. “I decided to come play for MSU for many reasons, one being the coaching staff. Coach Meyer has had an incredible career here at MSU,” Chelsea said. “I also really loved how the campus felt like a home away from home.” After two seasons playing on her own, it was time for her younger sister to decide where to go to school. Lindsay, who’s batting .402 so far this season, decided to join forces with her sister for another two years. “I decided to come to MSU because of the campus and the players on the team,” Lindsay said. “Chelsea influenced my decision a lot. Being able to play with her for two more years was just what I wanted.” After one great season playshannon rathmanner • msu reporter ing together, the sisters have The Erickson’s are tearing up the NSIC again this season for the 32-5 Mavericks. Lindsay (left) is hitting .402 elevated their play on the field with seven homers and 28 RBIs, while older sister Chelsea (right) is hitting .315 with eight homers and 33 RBIs. up a notch so far this season. season. “Playing with Lindsay is be in. She has been a huge influ- annoyed with it, but she also Between the two, they have great. As sisters we have a speence in my softball career.” knows I do it for her best intercombined for 15 home runs and cial bond on and off the field. Upon hearing her sister was ests,” Chelsea said. 61 of the team’s 174 RBIs. We can read each other really going to come join her at MSU, When asked about any differIn Tuesday’s sweep of Auwell. We know how to motivate Chelsea couldn’t wait for it to ences between each other, there gustana, Chelsea went 3-for-6 and push each other.” start. wasn’t much Chelsea could say. with one home run and three Not a lot of athletes get to “I was thrilled. After not “Two years and two inches... RBIs in the two games. The No. come to a college as a freshman playing with Lindsay for two other than that there isn’t much 11 Mavericks defeated No. 23 and have one of their older sibyears I realized that I really of a difference between us,” she Augie 2-0 the first game and 5-3 lings already there to help them missed her being on the same said. the second. out, and Lindsay has definitely team as me,” she said. This weekend the Erickson The two agree that playing taken advantage of that. The two are not only great sisters and the Mavericks travel together in college is a little dif“Coming in as a freshman teammates, but they are also for two big conference series. ferent than high school, but they and having a sister who has best friends off the field. Yet Friday they head to Iowa to both love being here together. been in the program for two there are times when a big sister take on Upper Iowa University, “It has been an amazing opyears already was a big advanhas to be a big sister. then they come back to Minportunity playing with my sister tage,” she said. “Before I came “I know Lindsay is a grown nesota to take on No. 3 Winona at the collegiate level,” said to MSU I already knew the type up, but the big sister in me will State in Winona on Saturday. Chelsea, who’s batting .315 this of playing environment I would always look after her. She gets

MSU Baseball

Mavericks eke out first game against Concordia, get shut down in second for series split TIGE HUTCHESON

staff writer

While a split probably isn’t exactly what the Minnesota State, Mankato baseball team was looking for on Tuesday night, there’s definitely a lot to be learned from it. The Mavericks battled back from an early hole and stole game one 9-8 in the 10th inning, before hitting a wall in a 6-0 game two loss at home against the Concordia-St. Paul Golden Bears (6-4 NSIC, 14-8 overall). “[Game 1] was a typical Maverick game in the way we battled back and kept our composure,” said head coach Matt Magers. “We had to grind it out in extra innings, but it took a total team ef-

fort and it wasn’t about just one or two guys. It was about everybody contributing and doing what they could to help us win that game.” The Mavericks found themselves in a 5-1 hole after just two innings, but kept their poise and charged back, tying the game with a three-run Jeremy Sudbeck homer in the seventh inning. The game was forced into extra innings at an 8-8 tie, but redshirt freshman Nolan Johnson came up with a huge walk-off RBI single in the 10th inning, allowing MSU to run away with the 9-8 comefrom-behind victory. Bryce Bellin (5-0) recorded the win, shutting out the Golden Bears after relieving Jordan Krause in the eighth.

But after rallying and coming up so big in game one, MSU’s offense ran into a wall in game two against Concordia’s junior lefty Griff Kilber. “Game two was just a situation where we ended up going up against a hot pitcher,” said Magers. “[Kilber] was able to really mix his pitches and speeds and we were off balance and couldn’t get anything going.” Kilber suffocated MSU’s offense, allowing only two hits in the game (both of which came from Johnson), as the Golden Bears’ offense was able to comfortably put up runs. “Hitting-wise, we didn’t have the ability consistently through the lineup to be able to get hits,” said

Magers. “Nolan Johnson was the only real consistent player on offense, and as a redshirt freshman we definitely didn’t expect quite so much from him. But we just really need to continue to get leadership from our upperclassmen and need them to carry us through the rest of the conference season.” Another thing Magers will have to continue to keep an eye on is fielding. After returning from Florida as the best fielding team in the NCAA, the Mavericks have struggled as of late and finished Tuesday’s doubleheader with a total of four errors. “It’s just consistency. That’s kind of the name of the game,” said Magers. “We lost the last game in Sioux Falls 4-2 and three

of those runs were unearned, and yesterday it kind of carried over. So ultimately it comes down to being consistent, having confidence and making sure we’re coming out and being prepared on every play.” As MSU looks for quick improvement at the plate and in the field, this weekend’s four-game road series against the last-place Mary Marauders should offer a golden chance to do some work. “[Mary is] going to be aggressive, but we just need to go up there and take care of the things we can control,” said Magers. “We have to start hitting the ball better, making better contact and taking advantage when we’re in position to do so.”

Page 8 • Reporter

Sports

Thursday, April 5, 2012

BREAKING DOWN THE FROZEN FOUR REECE HEMMESCH

staff writer

The Minnesota Golden Gophers appear to be a team of destiny this season. On the other hand, Boston College, the top team in the land, has made quick work of some of the best teams in the nation to get to this point. Two powerhouses, one winner. Here is what each team must do to earn a berth to Saturday’s championship:

Boston College will win if: The Eagles will win this matchup if they do exactly what the Gophers do: slow things down and play the waiting game; except Boston College needs this strategy on the offensive side of the ice. Both of these teams can run with the puck, but the Gophers are too fast and explosive for the Eagles to be looking at big breaks and long passes. Just work the puck around and make your way up the ice slowly. If they have watched tape of the Gophers in their recent game against North Dakota, they’ll find out that the U of M does not give away many fast-break goals. The Gophers’ forwards and a few defensemen are too quick to let people slip by them and get easy shots off alone in the zone. Boston College just needs to slow down the pace and keep the puck moving at all times in the offensive zone. The other big push BC will need to win will come right

after a Gopher score, when for some reason the Gophers are prone to giving up answerright-back goals as of late. Three out of the five goals against the U of M in the tourney have come under three minutes after the Gophers have scored a goal. I don’t know if they get too excited and can’t calm down or what the problem is, but Minnesota is weak after they get one. If Boston College doesn’t pout after giving up a score and is able to rebound mentally right after, they should be able to win the momentum battle and get the win.

Minnesota will win if: For the Gophers to win, they are going to need highlight nights both sides of the puck; but the real worry is their defense against the mighty Boston College offense. Boston College is the hottest team in hockey right now, having won 17 straight games, and has been the No. 1 team in the land since late February. During that stretch the Eagles have posted an astonishing goals against mark that averages around four goals a game. The Gopher defense has been solid all year round and currently ranks eighth in the nation, but has not looked as respectable in recent games; which includes giving up six goals to North Dakota in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association’s Final Five, and four in a late-season matchup

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against Wisconsin. It will take superior defensive efforts by the Gophers to shut down BC’s Chris Kreider and Johnny Gaudreau; two forwards who each have 40 points on the season. Behind the defense, Minnesota goalie Kent Patterson is coming off a great postseason if you take out the North Dakota debacle, as he has shined since and was the West Region Most Valuable Player for his five goals against performance in the U’s past two games. For the Golden Gophers to

Web Photo After the Dinkytown riots back in ‘02 and ‘03, the U of M is already asking students not to riot should the Gophers win it all on Saturday.

win this tough matchup, they need to play solid, fundamental

defense, which includes taking their time in the defensive zone and not being afraid to dump the puck. If the Gophers hold their ground and wait until power play opportunities to go on the offensive attack, they should manage to score some goals. The Gophers’ power play has been solid all season long, and if they can get BC in the box a couple times, they will be prosperous and send the Dinkytown streets into an allout euphoria once again.

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Email: huntington.hills@live.com Help Us Celebrate the Accomplishments of Minnesota State Mankato Authors at the

Fourth Annual MSU Authors Reception April 10, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. Lass Center for Minnesota Studies (Second Floor, Memorial Library) To find out more go to http ://lib.mnsu.edu /archives /authors /intro.html Or contact the University Archives at 507-389-1029

A&E RIDDLE! Congrats, once again, to Tim Kroon for winning this week’s riddle, he won some Easter candy.

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Q: What has to be broken before it can be used? A: An Egg! Tune in next week for another chance to win!

www.msureporter.com/arts-entertainment

NOCTOURNIQUET The M ars Volta return after three-year wait

BRIAN ROSEMEYER

he first few months of 2012 find the music industry continuing its shift into new territory as listeners are treated to releases from new artists staking their claim, and time-tested artists learning to evolve in the new parameters of what music distribution means. And it’s only appropriate that the Mars Volta decide to chime in. After the group’s debut in 2003, following the demise of At the Drive In, the Mars Volta immediately resonated with audiences across the globe. Since then, the band has been giving fans new releases almost annually. In 2009, the Volta signed with Warner Brothers Records and released their fifth studio album, Octahedron, of which was met with mixed feelings from critics and fans alike. Following Octahedron, Volta fans waited for the follow up, but nothing came. Guitarist and songwriting force Omar Rodriguez-Lopez stated in 2010 that a new record had been written, but Warner Bros wouldn’t release it for fear of “over-exposure.” As the wait continued, fans attacked the Warner Bros’ Facebook page and Youtube accounts, clogging the comment sections and information pages of many of Warner Bros’ more “mainstream” acts. After many circulating rumors and accusations as

| a&e editor

to the true reason of the new albums’ delay over the past years, the Mars Volta released Noctourniquet on March 27. As with any release from this group, the music takes some time to audibly digest, but the 13 tracks on Noctourniquet find the group once again pushing into new sonic realms. The record’s opener, “The Whip Hand,” pulsates between Rodriguez-Lopez’s delay pedal work and new drummer Deantoni Parks’ sharp snare before a thick synth melody spreads over the mix. Vocalist Cedric BixlerZavala keeps his trademarked tone and octave even in his climbing age. His lyric and melody composition have also been honed to fit unobtrusively into more accessible ears, yet simultaneously remaining unique and unpredictable on a first run-through. As Noctourniquet progresses, it’s clear that the Volta have harnessed the simpler concepts that made up Octahedron; sweeping melodies and grand over tones. However, on this record, the band is able to weave the tight mesh of complex experimental rock that gave them their success in the first place, and fit it snugly underneath Bixler-Zavala’s catchy vocals and Rodriguez-Lopez’s basic synth leads. The product is a

VOLTA/ page 10

• web photo Noctourniquet is the Mars Volta’s sixth LP. Released March 27, it features 13 new, original songs. The record was released on Warner Bros.

Wrath of the Titans C

JAMES SCHUYLER HOUTSMA | staff writer

lash of the Titans sucked. It took a while for the 18-year-old version of myself to come to terms with it, but it’s almost common knowledge today. So, when it was announced that a sequel was going into production, apathy came riding in on a winged horse for most people. Well, I’m here to report that Wrath of the Titans is better than its predecessor, but still not enough to recommend. Set 10 years after Clash, our demigod protagonist Perseus is raising his son, alone, as a fisherman, away from the affairs of gods. But when Zeus is betrayed by his brother Hades and son Ares in order to revive their father, the titular titan Kronos, the entire planet is in danger of being obliterated. Thus Perseus gets back to questing in order to save Zeus and humanity. Ultimately another soulless obligation to the accountants so they can keep the lights on and water running at Warner Brothers, Wrath remedies some of the former faults by having a more rapid-fire pace. As a man versus monster series by nature, the monsters are far more numerous, and there is less time spent in-between fighting them. Whereas last time the visual effects seemed weightless, this time they are much more refined and impactful. My jaw dropped more than once when it came to the scenes involving the sheer scale of the underworld prison, Tartarus, and the gargantuan magma monster Kronos. Like director Jonathan Liebesman’s last movie, Battle: LA, the sound mix really sells the experience, and to see it in IMAX 3D would be breathtaking indeed. It is also worth mentioning that the use of 3D this time around is significantly less horrendous. For comparison’s sake: Clash of the Titans = dim, vomitinducing fishbowl, forever to be known as the worst use of • web photo

Ultimately another soulless obligation to the accountants so they can keep the lights on and water running at Warner Brothers, Wrath remedies some of the former faults by having a more rapid-fire pace. 3D ever; Wrath of the Titans = bright and vibrant, with genuine moments of dodging objects flying off the screen. In fact, this movie does have more than a few things going for it. But it just makes it more of a shame that all this awesome spectacle and production is going towards a movie that’s still so flat. Perseus is closer to an actual character this time around, but he and his cohorts are still just used as conduits for action, without much real substance or concern from audience members (and no, I don’t expect that out of action movies, but it would be nice to see some effort from the filmmakers). Veteran actors Laim Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Danny Huston and Bill Nighy all know how to make the

TITANS / page 10

Page 10 • Reporter

A&E

Thursday, April 5, 2012

VOLTA “The drums rattle as electric keys fill the gaps until RodriquezLopez chunks his guitar in a chorus reminiscent of At The Drive In.”

TITANS “My jaw dropped more than once when it came to the scenes involving the sheer scale of the underworld prison, Tartarus, and the gargantuan magma monster Kronos.”

continued from 9

terrifically deep listen. Parks earns his stripes, even in the face of the daunting task of filling Thomas Pridgen’s shoes as drummer. Pridgen played so intricately and adjacently that he made the drums a lead in the mix, but Parks plays like a traditional drummer, being percussive and furthering the movements of the songs. That isn’t to say Parks lacks creativity, or is just filling a roll. Songs like “Lapochka” and “Empty Vessels Make The Loudest Sound” show off his incredibly tight snare and hi-hat work, in a forceful way, but without losing his place. High points on the record include “Aegis,” a five-minute epic that could stand alone as a testament to this year’s version of the Mars Volta. The drums rattle as electric keys fill the gaps until RodriquezLopez chunks his guitar in a chorus reminiscent of At The Drive In. The mix builds into a swirling bridge that glistens as Bixler-Zavala croons sweetly on top; all before the chorus comes crashing back in to close the song out. Noctourniquet doesn’t miss on any songs, yet there are elements within that don’t work. The production on the record’s closer, “Zed and Two Naughts,” is question-

able. The mix is muffled at points, and screams piercing high tones at others. The method is admirable in attempting a new means of portraying a song, but the product falls short. However, the song itself bounces and burns with perpendicular synth leads and gurgling guitar delay. Noctourniquet continues to reveal itself with every listen, and there is a lot to wade through. As with any Mars Volta record, one needs to approach it with an open mind and sharply tuned ears. Since the contract with Warner Bros Records is now over (it was only a two record deal), and since Rodriguez-Lopez has stated that this will be “The last Volta record of its kind,” it is only exciting to wait and see what the hell these guys will do next.

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Are you looking for an exciting and rewarding job? New and valuable experiences? A job that fits your class schedule? The Harry Meyering Center has the job for you! HMC is a non-profit agency committed to helping people with developmental disabilities lead full lives in the Mankato Community. No experience or special skills necessary we will provide paid training for needed skills! As a Direct Support Professional for HMC, you will receive: • Paid orientation and training • Work schedules that consider your class schedule • Excellent wage: $9.18 per hour Monday-Friday and $10.18 per hour on Saturday & Sunday. • Work-site close to campus and on bus route • Valuable and rewarding experience. Currently accepting applications for: • Direct Support Professional Part-time One to three evening shifts during the week; every other Saturday and Sunday (8 hours rotating shifts); plus fill-in & holidays. Contact Jennifer Schaffer, HR Director, for more information at 507-388-8972 or apply on line at our website: www.harrymeyeringcenter.org

most of their roles, but none of them have nearly enough screen time, and after being one of the most interesting aspects for most of the movie, the character resolution between Zeus and Hades is under whelming. Toby Kebbell as Poseidon’s demigod son is given most of the comedy relief duties and, not surprisingly, most of the attempts at humor fall on their face when they’re so forced. Director Liebesman has yet to make a well

received movie, his filmography including the aforementioned Battle: L.A, Darkness Falls, and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning. And writer Greg Berlanti has written some shining examples of mediocrity, the most recent being Green Lantern. The executives were clearly aiming high on this one. As bad as this sounds, Wrath is conceptually similar to the recent Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance. Both are un-

wanted sequels to poorly received movies that should have been able to knock it out of the park this time, given on how low the bar is set, yet they don’t. Wrath of the Titans isn’t as bad as Ghost Rider: SOV and is quite entertaining at times, but the divide between the good elements and the bad things that have stayed the same is aggravating and keeps it from being anywhere above a “meh.”

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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 @ 507-388-5301 or lostgonzo@gmail.com or search MSU Shotokan on facebook or yahoo groups. 4/26

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Sublease BEDROOM FOR RENT ASAP FOR male. Available until July. Price can be negotiated. Call 320-309-3791. UTN 2 BEDROOM APT FOR SUBlease! Located near campus at quads. $750/month plus heat & electricity. Free wireless internet. Available May 2012. Please call 507-626-1585 for showing. UTN

Reporter • Page 11

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BIG IDEAS about what CIVILITY means? We want to hear them!

All students are invited to any of three listening sessions the University has scheduled to help answer these questions: • What does it mean to treat others in a civil manner? • How have you seen civility modeled at the University? • What are some strategies and resources we could use to build a more civil culture at Minnesota State Mankato? Here are the listening sessions: • Thursday, April 12, 3-4 p.m, CSU 255 • Wednesday, April 18, 10-11 a.m., CSU 255 • Wednesday, April 18, MSSA Meeting, 4-6 p.m., CSU Nickerson Room Your answers will help shape the resources and training offered to our employees and students, as well as a marketing campaign kicking off this fall that will focus on building a more civil culture at our University. Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

Page 12 â&#x20AC;˘ Reporter

Thursday, April 5, 2012