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World’s Got Talent Season 3 exceeds expectations Audience chooses Everest Crew as favorite, Udu and Nadie runners up
MARJAN HUSSEIN Staff Writer The World’s Got Talent Season 3 event hosted by the International Student Association on Monday, Nov. 2 was a glorious occasion with breathtaking performances. The event was held in the CSU Ostrander Auditorium and had talent from all over the globe, as every performer was anxious to showcase their talent. The event was well organized and masterfully coordinated throughout the entire night. The atmosphere of the room was buzzing throughout the night with a colossal turnout that added to the energy of the event. The henna tattoos that were an attraction at the door to the event was of pure elegance and the snacks were delightfully refreshing.
Photo by Gage Cureton
The hosts of the event did an exceptional job, entertaining the audience as they introduced each performance. One of the hosts was the winner of the World’s Got Talent Season 2 and she was thrilled to introduce new performers who also wanted to wow the crowd with their talent.
The event was unique in that the audience voted for the performance they thought should win the competition. Each performance was spectacular and the judges of the event had a hard time sorting out the votes to find the winner. The main categories of performances for the night were dance,
song, band and rap. There were some performances that incorporated two categories and did an outstanding job. There were 14 performances overall lined up for the night but because of unforeseen circumstances one of the performers was unable to grace the stage. This, however, did not hinder
the event as the show had to go on. Although all the performers had top class acts with wonderful talent there could only be one winner at the end of the night. As the votes were being counted, numerous activities took place to keep the crowd entertained. A blooper video to show the hard work and dedication put in by the ISA to host the event was shown which also featured a practice session by the flash mob meant to perform. A jaw dropping performance by the flash mob followed, which was invigorating and well-choreographed. The crowed loved it and the tireless work put in by the flash mob members really paid off. Two of the hosts performed a karaoke song from their native country Nepal as it truly took the judges some time to tally the votes as all the performances
TALENT PAGE 2
Five study tips to help you succeed during finals next week OLUWATOMIKE BALI Staff Writer Finals week can be the most stressful time for students and, as we all know, finals week is fast approaching for students of Minnesota State University, Mankato. This is the time when student’s start to become overwhelmed with last minute studying, finishing up deadlines, and turning in assignments and projects. With all these, it’s very easy for college students to get frustrated or even depressed. Not to worry, however. There are few tips that might help you overcome the rush and help you get through finals week successfully:
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1. Start early. With all the available workload, it’s very easy for students to procrastinate on a lot of things and then you are forced to rush things up hours to the deadline. Starting early means you don’t have to start cramming things up the day before the exam. When you start early, you have better chances of getting a high score on the exam. 2. Create a study guide/ schedule and follow it. Creating a guide or schedule helps you cover the materials in chunks and follow through with studying it. It’s much easier and manageable to get through all the material when you split it up bit by bit. 3. Attend review sessions and ask questions.
Most professors will be rounding up the syllabus around this period and they will also usually organize review sections for students. Endeavor to go to these and to also ask questions on the areas that seem confusing.
on the exams. 4. Quiz yourself. It is important that, as you study, you also quiz yourself. This helps reinforce your knowledge of the material and allows for better understanding. Get together
“Endeavor to go to study sessions and to ask questions on the areas that seem confusing.”
A lot of professors slip in essential information during review sessions that are helpful for what you should be studying and what will be
with a classmate and quiz one another, or try teaching the material to your roommates or friends. By teaching or explaining to someone
Is racism still a problem in Minnesota?
Film review: Wonder
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else, you are reinforcing the knowledge and will have a better understanding of it. 5. Get adequate rest. The brain can only function properly when it is well rested. Therefore, it is advisable to get enough rest during this upcoming week and next week. Eat healthy and get enough sleep. Pulling an “allnighter” is not advisable as you will end up exhausted and not able to fully retain the information. Other tips to take note of are to avoid every form of distraction that might detract from your studying and, most importantly, learn how to manage time effectively. Good luck on the finals and happy holidays!
Have a story idea or a comment? EMAIL
News Editor Alissa Thielges alissa.thielges@mnsu.edu
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TALENT
Continued from page 1
Photo by Gage Cureton
were remarkable. The two hosts from Nepal also had an impromptu slow dance on the stage, which had a romantic touch to it, but had to be cut short as the results had finally arrived. The performances were all phenomenal but at the end of the night the winner of the World’s Got Talent Season 3 was the crowd favorite: Everest Crew. This was a dance crew that performed a fusion of hip hop and cultural dance. As soon as they walked onto the stage, the crowd went wild and their performance was incredible. The first runner up was Udu who performed two of Sam Smith’s songs, an English singer-songwriter’s who is an
inspiration to him. He played “Say Something” majestically on the piano first then topped off his performance with an impeccable voice, singing the song “Pray.” The second runner up was Nadia who touched the hearts of audience members with two songs filled with culture and heritage: “Zaama Nar Tetfachi” and “Lemouni Eli Gharou” from her home country Tunisia, as slides of the great nation rocked the screen behind her. Her performance was one of a kind and showed true passion along with patriotism for her nation. Three other awards were given out at the event to acknowledge some other
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superb performers; Best Outfit went to Maycee Vee, who was stunningly dressed as she performed a cultural dance that was flawless; Best Culture Act went to the dance crew FAV 3, which was made of three sophisticated ladies that were marvelous on stage as they performed a fabulous cultural dance; and Best Unique Act went to the KANSAI Lovers who incorporated both song and dance as they performed a creative remake of the “Cup Song.” All the winners of the show received certificates and the Everest Crew also won a gift certificate. The night was spectacular and all the winners were grateful for
Photo by Jeremiah Ayodele
their efforts to sharpen their talents that brought them glory at the end of the night. The World’s Got Talent Season 3 event was a huge success and ran smoothly throughout the entire night. It was an event like no other with high quality performance
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and a lovely audience. The ISA truly outdid itself and the lingering thought at the end of the night was of how the ISA would manage to top off an event of this caliber next fall.
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Feature Photo: Wanda Patsche, Minnesota farmer
Photo by Mansoor Ahmad
Wanda Patsche presented the 600th speech on Nov. 28 for the Minnesota Farm Bureau Foundation’s community outreach program Farming Today, which helps farmers share their stories with college and high schools students, civic and professional organizations, and businesses across the state.
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Thursday, November 30, 2017
Beat the winter blues with winter fun over the break
MARJAN HUSSEIN Staff Writer The fall semester has finally come to an end and the time to take a break from studying is almost here. Although winter break seems short, there are a plethora of fun activities that one can indulge in. Winter break also coincides with various holidays which makes even more exciting. Celebrations with family and friends is something one can look forward to over the break. Catching up with loved ones and enjoying each other’s company is one of the best ways one can choose to spend this short break. One can spend time with loved ones in numerous ways such as catching a flick together, watching a favorite television program, putting on a small talent show in the house, decorating the house for the festive season, playing board games or just
having a laugh while enjoying a hot beverage. Some other things one can get involved in this winter break include making handmade gifts. Spending time creating something from scratch with family or friends is exhilarating as ideas are forged together to come up with something extraordinary. Another fun thing to do over winter break is to get involved in local holiday events. This could mean either participating in the event or just being a part of the audience at the event. Mankato has a ton of holiday events such as the Kiwanis Holiday Lights at Sibley Park, which will definitely add some spark to the festive season. Shopping is another exciting thing to do over winter break. Although it may seem monotonous and tiresome to go shopping, considering all the sales and discounts offered by retailers, going shopping may seem livelier than you think. Loved ones can pick out what they want and it would save one the hassle of giving someone a gift they perhaps did not
(CC BY-SA 2.0) by Valerie Everett
even need. Trying a winter or indoor sport could also be something interesting one partakes in over the break. Trying out something new is always adventurous and one can easily learn a new skill. Volunteering, especially during the holiday season, is fun and would help spread the holiday cheer to others. Often people forget that others are going through hardships, thus volunteering helps bring people down to earth and makes them
more thankful of what they have. Donating items that one does not need any more or collecting donations for a given purpose would also be fun and handing them out to the less fortunate would give a heartwarming feeling. Taking a short vacation over winter break would also be something fun and highly beneficial that one can do. Traveling always helps people look at things from a different perspective and enlightens one on matters they were perhaps non-
conversational with or probably overlooked. Even a short road trip this winter break would be a fun way to bond with family or friends as you drive past magnificent s cener ies, c reating everlasting memories. Winter break is a period away from studying that students are given to relax, thus spending it partaking in fun, invigorating activities is an awesome way to make it productive.
Expanding DNA’s alphabet lets cells produce novel proteins WASHINGTON (AP) — Scientists are expanding the genetic code of life, using man-made DNA to create a semi-synthetic strain of bacteria — and new research shows those altered microbes actually worked to produce proteins unlike those found in nature. It’s a step toward designer drug development. One of the first lessons in high school biology: All life is made up of four DNA building blocks known by the letters A, T, C and G. Paired together, they form DNA’s ladder-like rungs. Now there’s a new rung on that ladder. A team at The Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California, expanded the genetic alphabet, creating two artificial DNA “letters� called X and Y. A few years ago, the researchers brewed up a type of E. coli bacteria commonly used for lab research that contained both natural DNA and this new artificial base pair — storing extra genetic information inside cells. The next challenge: Normal DNA contains the coding for cells to form proteins that do the work of life. Could cells carrying this weird genomic
hybrid work the same way? Sure enough, the altered cells glowed green as they
designer drugs, biofuels or a range of other products. Scripps’ technology has
“The altered cells glowed green as they produced a fluorescent protein containing unnatural amino acids.�
produced a fluorescent protein containing unnatural amino acids, researchers reported Wednesday in the journal Nature. “We can make proteins that are built of more things than they normally are,� explained Scripps chemist Floyd Romesberg, who leads the project. While programming the green germs offered evidence that the approach can work, eventually “we would like to get proteins that do new things,� he said. That’s an ultimate goal in the field of synthetic biology — designing organisms that work differently from the way nature intended so scientists can harness them to create
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been licensed by a biotech company Romesberg co-founded, Synthorx Inc., that aims to make novel protein-based drugs. The new work traced the biological steps as the altered E. coli read the artificial genetic code and assembled the pieces for a new protein, with the same efficiency as if using normal DNA. The result is a platform that offers a way to increase the diversity of proteins
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made inside living cells, said Jef Boeke, a synthetic biology researcher at New York University who wasn’t involved in Scripps’ work. This bacterial strain was “modified in a really dramatic and unusual way at these positions in its genome,� Boeke said. “And that’s what makes it different from every other organism on the planet today.�
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Thursday, November 30, 2017 EMAIL THE EDITOR IN CHIEF:
Is racism still a problem in Minnesota? Opinion
GABE HEWITT
gabriel.hewitt@mnsu.edu OR AT reporter-editor@mnsu.edu
FALL 2017 2015 EDITOR IN IN CHIEF: CHIEF: EDITOR Gabe Hewitt ........................389-5454 Rae Frame ............................389-5454
BILL HAMM Staff Writer From “Indigenous Peoples Day,” to facing the truth about the Thanksgiving Day lie, white Americans are seeing their comfortable lies undermined. From our textbooks to our churches, the lies and twisted truth permeate our culture as Minnesota nice lives on. What will it take to turn around Minnesota’s growing racist problem? As I am finishing my first semester here at Minnesota State University, Mankato, I have had my eyes opened, not to a better reality, but to a different breed of the same old enemy: racism. As a “ranger,” I have seen most of that racism directed at collegiate male athletes and their interaction with white females. In a recent case in Hibbing, we saw it directed at high school students by a white teacher. In the Duluth public school district, we have seen 75 percent of all disciplinary action directed at 15 percent of students, mainly those of color. This in a school system that somehow can’t seem to retain a teacher of color.
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Amidst this backdrop, we have a difficult time getting politicians to even recognize these things as problems in our white dominated culture. I had hoped to find south central Minnesota a bit better adjusted, but the reality isn’t better, just different. I recently learned from a fellow student who is looking at a run for local school board that Mankato is now engaged in a very old form of segregation. When told about the housing projects in Mankato that are being built to segregate people of color, I likened it to the Chicago racist housing projects, and she responded, “Exactly.” In digging deeper, I find that an active effort was made to bring many of these immigrants here. Mostly out of the concerns and needs of
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the local farming community for cheap labor, labor that local white people no longer are willing to do. It doesn’t stop there but gets much worse as I hear of employers who are not even obligated to provide basic work place safety for their workers. Furthermore, many of these workers may be “sentenced to serve” county prisoners. These employers and the county may be using intimidation and threats to keep these workers from complaining about these horrific conditions. Then I hear about states like Texas, who are actively moving their poor and criminal population to Minnesota via state vouchers. I thought we had stopped this ignorance about 20 years ago when Mississippi was doing it, yet
not a word is said about these things by local legislation. In digging deeper, I find that the local county Sheriff’s departments have adapted their own versions of the “Minnesota prison quota system,” being practiced statewide to keep Minnesota’s Prison Industrial Complex alive and well for our well-paid public employee unions. State legislator Jack Considine told me that local arrest rates only look racist. He explained that it is because they are targeting out of state drug dealers, not local people of color. OK, then where are the figures to support this?
RACISM PAGE 7
“What is one thing you are looking forward to doing over winter break?”
ANDREA STAPLES, ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
KIANA, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
SPENCER TUTTRUP, INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
JORDAN MALMANGER, FINANCE
“Going to Vegas with the bowling team.”
“Traveling.”
“Graduating and never coming back to Mankato.”
“Looking forward to seeing my family and hanging out with hometown friends.”
AD. DESIGN/PROD. DESIGN/PRODUCTION AD. MGR.: MGR.: Dana Clark Clark........................... .......................... 389-2793 Dana
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WALLACE POPE, POLITICAL SCIENCE AND SOCIAL STUDIES EDUCATION “Recuperating after a long semester and chilling with family. :)”
Thursday, November 30, 2017
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MSU Reporter • 7
Artist grants totaling $30,000 awarded to 10 artists from area November 28, 2017 The Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council is pleased to announce that $30,000 in Professional Mid-Career Artist Grants has been awarded to ten artists at $3,000 each, announces Brenda Byron, PLRAC Executive Director. The purpose of the PLRAC/ McKnight Artist Grant Program is to provide financial support to artists committed to advancing their work and careers. Artists expanding their present work, advancing in skill, technique and/or moving in a new direction are eligible. Applications are accepted from artists in all art disciplines including: dance, literature, music, theater, and visual art. This program is made possible by funds provided by the McKnight Foundation of Minneapolis under a program designed and administered by the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, Waseca. “We are excited that these ten artists will be creating new works in a variety of media” noted Byron, and below is a list of Artists and their projects. We hope that other artists will be inspired and plan to apply for a future grant from Prairie Lakes. The next deadline for a Professional Mid-Career Artist Grant is September 15, 2018 for a $3,000 grant and the $1,000 Artist Career Development Grant deadline is January 15, 2018. Grant program information and a link to the online applications are available at www.plrac. org. Four Blue Earth County artists were funded and they include: Rachael Hanel, Madison Lake. Rachael is a writer and will use the artist grant to create a narrative nonfiction work focusing on the family of Jerry Krause, a Waseca, Minnesota, native
who went missing in Africa in 2013. She will travel to and from Waseca to interview members of Jerry’s family and to Indiana to interview Jerry’s wife, Gina. She will also use funds for a writing retreat in Duluth Minnesota. Public readings will be scheduled at Waseca Public Library, the Waseca Art Center, libraries in Elysian and Le Sueur, or at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Mika Laidlaw, Mankato. Mika is a visual artist and will use the artist grant to purchase a VentSure kiln ventilation system, plastic bats for creating and carrying ceramic sculptures, mold-making straps to secure slip casting system, and ceramic materials. She will experiment with these new materials which she has not worked with to create a body of ceramic sculptures. She will take a research trip to study Asian art by visiting museums, temples, shrines, universities and art institutions in Japan. She plans to use digital images to apply for regional, national, and international exhibitions of the new work as well as local exhibitions at the Conkling Gallery at Minnesota State University, Mankato in March 2019. Richard Robbins, Mankato. Richard is a writer and will use the artist grant to conduct readings of his current book of poems, “Body Turn to Rain: New and Selected Poems”, and to have creative time to complete two working manuscripts of other poems to submit to publishers. He will schedule readings of the new work at Poor Farm Studios in Mankato in October or November 2018. Todd Shanafelt, Mankato. Todd is a visual artist and will use the artist grant to purchase supplies to create approximately 24 new sculptures. Twelve new sculptural works will
RACISM
Continued from page 1 In digging deeper, I find that the local county Sheriff’s departments have adapted their own versions of the Minnesota prison quota system, being practiced statewide to keep the Minnesota’s Prison Industrial Complex alive and well for our wellpaid public employee unions. Talks with local state legislators strongly suggest an unacceptable
level of ambivalence on these racial issues, including but not limited to, an absolute refusal to recognize any wrong doing by police. For these reasons, and so many more, next semester and its political caucuses will again provide a venue for change. Will you be there to help make change finally happen?
be exhibited at the Waseca Art Center in February 2018 and another twelve works at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Bloomington Minnesota in spring 2018. These venues were chosen for their connection to nature, agriculture, and our changing demographics. Two Brown County artists were funded and they include: Bethel Balge, New Ulm. Bethel is a classical pianist and will use the artist grant to conduct a professional photo session, to study and practice the piano, and to purchase an Apple 12.9 inch iPad Pro for uploading music and digitally turning pages at concerts. She will have a free recital in the Chapel of Christ at Martin Luther College in New Ulm. Andrea (Lyn) Gehrke, New Ulm. Andrea is musician and will use the artist grant to help offset the cost of producing a new album. She will pay stipends to additional musicians, log practice time and time spent creating the CD cover artwork, and pay to promote the album. She will perform a two hour concert featuring songs from the new album at either the Grand Center for Arts and Culture in New Ulm or the Arts Center of Saint Peter in September 2018. Three Nicollet County artists were funded and they include: Betsy Byers, St. Peter. Betsy is a visual artist and will use the artist grant to purchase supplies to produce a body of work that addresses climate change. She will have an exhibition of oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings inspired by the rapidly melting glaciers in Glacier National Park at Rosalux Gallery in Minneapolis in February 2018. Melissa Rolnick, St. Peter. Melissa is a dancer/
Photo courtesy of Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council Front Row (L to R): Betsy Byers, St. Peter; Bethel Balge, New Ulm; Cindy Lewer, Prairie Lakes Program Manager, Waseca; and Andrea (Lyn) Gehrke, New Ulm. Back Row: Rachael Hanel, Madison Lake; Todd Shanafelt, Mankato; Reed White, North Mankato; and Melissa Rolnick, St. Peter.
choreographer and will use the artist grant to cultivate dance as an “art practice” with older adults. During the spring of 2018 she will be facilitating dance and choreographic practice with older adults at the VINE Faith in Action Center in Mankato, MN. The class will have a final performance at VINE Faith in Action Center at the completion of the class. Reed White, North Mankato. Reed is a visual artist and will use the artist grant to purchase art supplies to create 4 large scale (approximately 4’ x 5’ or larger) oil paintings of treats, such as cupcakes, cakes, etc. He will have an exhibit at the Bluebird Cakery in Mankato since it is not an art gallery and it will expose people who may not visit art galleries. Waseca County artist Edward (Jack) Williams from Waseca was funded. Jack is a writer and plans to re-write his play “My Life, as I Remember It” into a series of short stories. He will use the artist grant to take the “Writing for Absolute Beginners” class at The Loft in Minneapolis November and December 2017. He will also purchase a laptop computer, hire an editor and proofreader, hire a graphic designer to
complete the book cover, and take a research trip to Ely Minnesota. He will schedule readings for September or October 2018. Tentative presentation locations are the Waseca-LeSueur Regional Library, Waseca County Historical Society, Waseca Public Schools, Waseca Arts Center, and ElyWinton Historical Society. Prairie Lakes provides grants for artists and arts activities including dance, music, theater, literature, and visual art classes and exhibitions. The next arts and community organization grant for arts projects is January 1, 2018. The next Professional Mid-Career Artist Grant deadline is September 15, 2018 for a $3,000 grant and the $1,000 Artist Career Development Grant deadline is January 15, 2018. Grant program information and a link to the online applications are available at www.plrac. org or contact Brenda Byron, Executive Director, at the PLRAC office in Waseca, 1-800–298-1254 or plrac@hickorytech.net for information. The PLRAC serves a nine county area in south central Minnesota.
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Thursday, November 30, 2017
Bali volcano ash drifts 4.7 miles high, airport shutdown 3rd day KARANGASEM, Indonesia (AP) — An erupting volcano with a deadly history on Indonesia’s Bali, one of the world’s most popular resort islands, has spread drifting ash 7,600 meters (4.7 miles) into the atmosphere and closed the island’s international airport for a third day Wednesday. Authorities have told 100,000 people to leave an area extending 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Mount Agung as it belches grey and white ash plumes, the low clouds hanging over the volcano at times hued red from the lava welling in the crater. The volcano’s last major eruption in 1963 killed about 1,100 people, but it’s unclear how bad the current eruption might get or how long it could last. Officials extended the closure of Bali’s international airport for another 24 hours due to concerns the thick volcanic ash could harm aircraft. Airport spokesman Ari Ahsanurrohim said more than 440 flights were canceled Tuesday, affecting nearly 60,000 passengers, about the same as Monday. The
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
closure was in effect until Thursday morning. Without aircraft, getting in or out of Bali requires traveling hours by land and taking a boat to another island, enduring choppy seas in Bali’s rainy season. Ahsanurrohim said Wednesday morning that volcanic ash has not been detected at the airport yet, but observations from the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Center show the ash has reached an altitude of 25,000 feet (7,600 meters) and was being blown southward and southwestward toward the
airport. “I don’t know, we can’t change it,” said stranded German traveler Gina Camp, who planned to go back outside and enjoy another day on the island, which attracts about 5 million visitors a year to its famed resorts and world-class surf spots. “It’s nature and we have to wait until it’s over.” Experts said a larger, explosive eruption is possible or Agung could stay at its current level of activity for weeks. “If it got much worse, it would be really hard to
think of. You’ve got a huge population center, nearly a million people in Denpasar and surroundings, and it’s very difficult to envision moving those people further away,” said Richard Arculus, a volcano expert at Australian National University, adding that an eruption in 1843 was even more explosive than the one in 1963. “There are many examples in history where you have this kind of seismic buildup — steam ejections of a little bit of ash, growing eruptions of ash to a fullscale stratosphere-reaching
column of ash, which can presage a major volcanic event,” he said. A NASA satellite detected a thermal anomaly at the crater, said senior Indonesian volcanologist Gede Swantika. That means a pathway from the storage chamber in the volcano’s crust has opened, giving magma easier access to the surface. Indonesian officials first raised the highest alert two months ago when seismic activity increased. More than 100,000 people living near the volcano fled their homes, many abandoning their livestock or selling them for a fraction of the normal price. The activity decreased by late October, and the alert was lowered before being raised to the highest level again Monday. Nearly 40,000 people are now staying in 225 shelters, according to the Disaster Mitigation Agency in Karangasem. But tens of thousands of villagers have remained in their homes because they feel safe or don’t want to abandon their farms and livestock.
Thursday, November 30, 2017
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Minnesota State University, Mankato
A&E
Thursday, November 30, 2017 Have a story idea or a comment? EMAIL
A&E Editor Caleb Holldorf
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Wonder is a tear jerking feel good flick for all Based on the New York Times best seller, film surprises in a good way
LUCAS TORBORG Staff Writer
It is a well-known fact that kids can be cruel, often times for no particular reason. It is safe to say that almost everyone has experienced being bullied in some way, shape or form. The new film “Wonder” explores bullying and how simple acts of kindness can end it. While walking into the auditorium for “Wonder” I began to regret my decision of going to this movie. Within the auditorium I
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
Julia Roberts and Jacob Termblay
was welcomed by an audience ranging from the ages of 45 to 80 each equipped with their own individual box of tissues. I was aware that I wasn’t
exactly the intended audience for the movie, but this was a little ridiculous. To my surprise, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and even shed a tear or
two myself. “Wonder” is based on the New York Times Best Selling Novel of the same name written by R.J. Palacio. The movie is directed by Stephen Chbosky, who
also wrote and directed the critically acclaimed movie “Perks of Being a Wallflower”. With “Perks” and now “Wonder” it is obvious that Chbosky truly has a talent for making the unusual lives of his movie’s characters relatable and empathetic to the common viewer. “Wonder” revolves around a typical 10-yearold boy, August “Auggie” Pullman (Jacob Tremblay), who loves to play video games and watch Star Wars. Auggie is just like any 10-year-old boy, except that he has extreme facial differences due to a rare
WONDER
PAGE 14
Justice League’s plot lacks consistency and distracts Elements of adventure humor and action were unbalanced
AMANDA HINSHAW Staff Writer
This past weekend, I went to see the superhero film “Justice League.” Directed by Zack Snyder, the movie made its debut on Nov. 17, 2017. WARNING: this review may contain spoilers, so for the sake of those who have not seen the movie, I will do my best to keep it to a minimum. With Batman’s faith in humanity restored and inspired by Superman’s selfless act, Batman unites with Wonder Woman to face down a threat that is far greater than they had imagined. Steppenwolf, who is second in command to alien warlord, Darkseid, is tasked with retrieving three artifacts that are found on Earth. They work together to
Aquaman, Wonder Woman, Cyborg and Flash
unite an unlikely array of superheroes, but even with the alliance in place, it may be too late to save the world from the catastrophes that are about to take place. In the opening scene,
Image courtesy of The Associated Press
you see Superman and it’s almost bittersweet to see because most people who remember watching “Dawn of Justice” will recall that Superman was killed by a monster that was made up of kryp-
tonite. The video clip of Superman was a great idea because it sets the tone for the film as if to show that the world is still reeling in shock from losing their hero, or in Batman’s
words, “their beacon of hope”. Batman, who is portrayed by Ben Affleck, goes on a mission to form an alliance of superheroes and metahumans. Jason Momoa portrays the Aquaman and while they didn’t divulge too much into his backstory, he did a wonderful job portraying the King of Atlantis. Snyder portrayed him as a loner, but he is a force to be reckoned with. Viewers will also get a chance to see Mera, who was portrayed by Amber Heard, and everyone will get the chance to see her again in the “Aquaman”
JUSTICE
PAGE 13
Thursday, November 30, 2017
MSU Reporter • 13
A&E
Murder on the Orient Express chugs along screen Strongest aspect of this mystery is Branagh’s directing
TIM STARMAN Staff Writer
In the faithful adaption to the classic Agatha Christie novel, “Murder on the Orient Express” follows a group of strangers aboard a train together. Over the course of the trip, one of the passengers gets mur- Johnny Depp dered and this sets the era effortlessly traverses stage as to what follows. amongst the suspects. We Although the story takes can see one pair of charplace predominantly in acters gossiping amongst one single setting (the Orithemselves, and in a matent Express), the camera ter of moments, the camdoes a great job of makera slides to a completely ing the small environment different pair. The camera very interesting. Most of movement is more interthe drama happens in one esting than the dialogue car of the train; the camand story itself.
Image courtesy of the Associated Press
The film starts outside of the train and follows the separate characters by themselves, impressively setting up the background information of each one. As soon as all of the characters board the train, we start to see interactions amongst them all. This beginning third was very
Dept. of Music hosting holiday concert Dec. 3
Image courtesy of MNSU Theatre Dept.
MANKATO, Minn. – The Department of Music will present three choral groups in a Holiday concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, December 3, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 623 South Broad St, Mankato. The program will include traditional choral works, carols and music of the season. Dr. David Dickau con-
ducts the Concert Choir and Chamber Singers. Dr. Aaron Humble concerts the University Chorale. Director Dr. David Dickau says, “This concert gives the choral groups an opportunity to do music of the season along with an eclectic mix from Renaissance to contemporary choral literature.” Concert admission is $9,
$7 for students with a valid MavCard. Discount tickets are available online for University students. Advance purchase is strongly encouraged. Those who wish to purchase tickets online should go to www.mnsu. edu/music. For more information, call the Performance Series office, (507) 389-5549.
interesting and fresh, it moved along as swift as the train itself. As soon as the murder happens, things start to get a little dicey. In a classic Christie novel, the unraveling of the mystery is the most important and most intriguing parts of the story; it is why people
are so fond of her. This intrigue didn’t come through on the screen. At first, it was rather interesting to hear the chitter-chatter and what each of the characters had to say, but eventually, it got very old. At one point, it was difficult to pay attention to the dialogue, and I was dozing off at times. While the story and pacing were a little off, over emphasizing on interviewing the suspects, but what excels in “Murder on the Orient Express” is the camera work. As a film major, I am always looking at technical aspects of a film, the kind of stuff an average viewer wouldn’t pick up. From the opening image to the final, I was immersed
ORIENT
PAGE 14
JUSTICE Continued from page 12 movie that is coming out in December 2018. Barry Allen, who is better known as The Flash, was portrayed by Ezra Miller. The Flash has always been known for his comic relief, especially in the most intense situations. Miller delivered very well on this front, and in my opinion, he brought a fresh appeal to The Flash that the television show and comics have yet to deliver. Viewers will see familiar faces returning to the screen, such as Wonder Woman, Lois Lane, and Martha Kent. Actor Ray Fisher helped bring life to Victor Stone, an athlete who was killed in an explosion in Gotham City, and as a result, he was reassembled with bionic metals and this gives him the futuristic robotic look that is seen in the film. This is where “Cyborg” gets his turn on the big screen. Throughout the film, there were moments that were packed with
the right amount of action, adventure, and humor. It was nice to see that the movie was able to have its funny moments, but I was a little confused by how the storyline hopped around a lot. I was disappointed when that happened because it can really turn the audience off before they even have the chance to watch it. While there were some scenarios that didn’t make sense, I still enjoyed watching it regardless. If anyone is looking to watch a superhero film that has action, adventure, and witty humor, look no further than “Justice League.” SPOILER: Make sure you watch the ending credits. There is a major clue as to what villains are entering the picture. It may just surprise you.
14 • MSU Reporter
A&E
WONDER Continued from page 12 syndrome he was born with. Auggie has gone through countless surgeries to alter his face, but still remains deformed. Knowing how cruel kids can be Auggie’s loving parents, Isabel (Julia Roberts) and Nate (Owen Wilson), have homeschooled him the previous years. However; they have finally decided for him to attend a public school before it is more difficult when he is older. On the first day of school, Auggie is accompanied by his parents and his sister Via (Izabella Vidovic). Nate then takes off his son’s, Auggie, space helmet he constantly wears to hide behind and Auggie nervously begins his first day of public school. Throughout the movie, Auggie struggles with some bullies, while also making friends along the way. However, the story does not just focus on Auggie, but on the people he impacts, including his sister, his friends, and many others. “Wonder” is actually extremely sophisticated, balancing several divergent themes and messages. This is primarily why the film succeeds at the difficult task of making a movie targeted at kids and parents influential to teenagers and young adults as well. What also makes this movie so mature is its outstanding performances that truly keeps the film grounded. Great acting comes from veteran actors and beginning actors alike. The standout actors include the young Jacob Tremblay, Owen Wilson, and especially Julia Roberts, who hasn’t been this good in a role for quite some time. The best part of “Wonder”, in my opinion, is when the story shifts from different perspectives of each character. For example, the movie starts with a chapter called Auggie which is seen from his perspective and is narrated by him. The next chapter is
seen from the perspective of Via, Auggie’s sister. This pattern is continued with three more characters in the movie. The use of these chapters makes it apparent that the story is about much more than just Auggie, but the struggles of everyday people as well. This encapsulates the main message throughout the movie, being that no one is particularly a bad person and that the world is not black and white, but that every person has their own difficulties that we often times do not see. At times, “Wonder” can seem to be a little cheesy mostly due to a few lines or actions that seem as if it something that no one would actually do. The other small flaw this movie has is its lack of atmosphere. To elaborate, sometimes the camera work seems a little cheap and can make the film appear as if it’s a made for television movie. Overall, “Wonder” is the feel-good movie of the year that everyone should see. The film has a great message with extremely relatable characters performed by truly talented actors. “Wonder” is a movie that will make you tear up but will also have you leaving the theatre feeling inspired.
Thursday, November 30, 2017
Dispatch’s first acoustic tour making stop at Pantages CALEB HOLLDORF A&E Editor
The indie folk band Dispatch’s is having their first ever acoustic tour, and are making a stop at Minneapolis’ Pantages Theater on Dec. 11. The band is touring with the release of their latest album “America, Location 12,” which was released this summer. Dispatch’s “Only The Wild Ones” became the their first major radio hit which cracked the Top 10 at AAA earlier this summer as thier sing, “Painted Yellow Lines” is now beginning to ascend up all the way to number 23 this week.
On the band’s website, you can find some interesting and fascinating information on them. According to their website, Dispatch’s music is “built on tales of struggling immigrants, forgotten veterans and children cast aside, Dispatch (Brad Corrigan, Chad Stokes and Pete Francis) has crafted a set of songs that tap into the peace and plight of the human condition, chiseling a spot in our culture that has perhaps never been quite so vital.” Lindsay Bailey at Stunt Company who is helping promote the band, told me about how Dispatch has sold out a few shows
at Madison Square Garden while also being incredible humanitarians and social & environmental activists, supporting dozens of charities in their career. One of my favorite aspects quotes on their website is the fact “Dispatch heads into the era of America, Location 12 with both the passion and vigor of a band in their infancy and the knowledge and power of one together for twenty years and counting. And Dispatch is rising to the occasion.” Dispatch would be a great band to see over winter break, so feel free to visit a ticket vendor to try and get a ticket.
ORIENT Continued from page 13 in the world through the visuals. The screenplay went over my head because I was too focused on the character of the camera and how he was interacting with the suspects. From subtle transitions, to intricate over the head shots; every frame and image was unique and interesting. I believe that the only thing that didn’t derail the film was the camera and direction. Kenneth Branagh played two roles in “Murder on the Orient Express”. He played Mr. Detective and was the director of the film. It was interesting to see a movie were the brains
Wesley Davis
behind the camera also helped the film stay afloat. Although coming from a French major, his accent did not sound very authentic. Even if the dialogue didn’t stick with me enough, the acting was really well done. “Murder on the Orient Express” was a rather enjoyable movie. I really appreciated the craftsmanship and technique that went into the editing and photography. I do suggest seeing this film if you are interested in an intellectual mystery with a lot of information coming at you. It is definitely a film for someone who is great at picking out little details and retaining
Tommy Wiita
The Reporter wishes to recognize and appreciates the contributions of these students for their work and dedication to the MSU Reporter.
Best wishes from all of us! We also want to wish Ryan Sjoberg & Easton Smiskey good luck as they leave to pursue other opportunities!
the knowledge throughout. After seeing it once and knowing the ending, I do think a second viewing would be very helpful in order to put all the pieces together. “Murder on the Orient Express” is a train you might want to catch.
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Thursday, November 30, 2017
Have a story idea or a comment?
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Sports Editor Tommy Wiita
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MSU football faces Texas A&M-Commerce next at home
RYAN SJOBERG Sports Writer After a dominating performance against Midwestern State last Saturday at the Blake, your Minnesota State University Mavericks are back in action this Saturday for another home game. This time they welcome Texas A&M-Commerce to town. Texas A&M-Commerce comes in boasting an impressive 11-1 record. They are currently on a seven-game winning streak and are playing the best football of their season as they just knocked off the number one team in the region, Central Washington. The Lions have a high-powered offense that has managed to score 50 plus points on four separate occasions giving the Maverick defense a tall task on Saturday. The Lions and MSU have faced two of the same oppo-
Photo by Mansoor Ahmed
nents this year. One team is Midwestern State (the Mavericks defeated Midwestern State 63-21 in their most recent game). The game against MWSU was the Lion’s only defeat of the season, coming on October 7th. The game was close throughout, but eventually Midwestern State defeated A&M by the score of 47-42. Another opponent the teams both faced was Winona State. This matchup came in the first round of the playoffs where Commerce went into Winona and put on a defensive clin-
ic, knocking off the Warriors 20-6 to advance in the tournament. Texas A&M-Commerce presents an offensive attack that is possibly more potent and unique than any other the Mavericks have faced so far this year. This team loves to air the ball out and do it quite effectively. They average 363 yards passing per game while still managing to average 90+ rushing yards per game. The Mavs secondary will have to come out ready to make plays as they have not been tested like this
all year. If the wind is a factor, the advantage lies with the hometown team as the Mavericks love to pound the rock. Minnesota State presents probably the best compliment of offense and defense in the nation as the offense often puts up huge numbers on the ground while the defense typically dominates and frustrates the opponent to the point where they cannot get any type of rhythm going on offense. If the Mavericks want to advance to the semifinals of
the playoffs, they must look to get the ball to their star studded running backs. The Mavericks are lucky enough to have two 1,000 yard rushers in sophomore Nate Gunn and freshman Justin Taormina. Gunn is sitting at 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns. He probably would have had the opportunity to go over 2,000 this year if it wasn’t for an injury that kept him sidelined for about a month. For Taormina, he did an amazing job filling in for Gunn rushing for 1,100 yards and 11 touchdowns now showing the Maverick coaching staff that this could be a fearsome 2-headed rushing monster going forward. PREDICTION Minnesota State wins and it is not really that close. A&M is traveling to its third straight away game, all being across the country, so some could say that fatigue might start to set in. Either way, most expect MNSU to win, but maybe I feel a little more strongly about it than most. Mavericks win 38-17.
Vikings: rest of regular season no cake walk
SEAN MORAWCZYNSKI Staff Writer The team quarterbacked by Case Keenum won its seventh-consecutive game on Thanksgiving Day, defeating the Detroit Lions in a game marred by questionable officiating. The 9-2 Vikings still have plenty of tests left in the remaining five games of the regular season. Three games on the road and two home games make up the rest of the schedule for the Vikings. The daunting schedule after the week nine bye had some fans’ teeth chattering due to the imbalance of road and home games. The postbye victory at Washington was a flashy offensive show-
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
ing for the starting quarterback Keenum, who threw for a career-high four touchdowns. The win seemed to be almost certain until Washington crept back in the fourth quarter but the Vikings’ Kai Forbath added the cushion room necessary for the win with a late field goal, 38-30. The next two wins against the Los Angeles Rams at
home and Detroit Lions in Detroit solidified Minnesota’s bid as an upper-echelon team in the NFL. 2016’s version of the Minnesota Vikings finished 28th in the NFL for total offense which is measured by yards-per-game; the 2017 Vikings are currently the fifth-best offense in the league. The only surprise about
the team’s defense this year is that the offense is performing just as well. The defense also sits at fifth-best in the NFL by allowing just 290.4 yards-per-game. The defensive mastermind, that is Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer, has shown exactly what it takes to make the correct adjustments against opposing offenses this year. Min-
nesota also holds the best percentage when it comes to stopping players on third down; just 28 percent of the time have opponents converted on third down against the Vikings this season, which is best in the entire NFL. Zimmer’s defense will absolutely need to be ready for the next two opponents; the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers. Both games will be played on the road in the coming weeks. Atlanta’s offense is playing very similar to the Vikings this year with a lot of balance between the passing and running games. The Matt Ryan-led offense for the Falcons has put up 24.1 points-per-game this season, but the -3-turnover differential and the stellar Vikings defensive line could cause some trouble for “Matty Ice”.
VIKINGS PAGE 19
16 • MSU Reporter
Sports
Thursday, November 30, 2017
Manning may be seeing his final days as a Giant es the age-old question in sports: How do you part ways with a player who is past their prime? Manning, 36, led the Giants to the playoffs last season, their first playoff trip since 2011. In the 2016 playoffs, the Giants were eliminated by the Green Bay Packers. The Giants have played very poorly this season, posting a 2-9 record through 11 games. Manning has thrown 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions on the season. The main culprit of the Giants’ woes this season are injuries; with star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. being the biggest loss for the Giants’ offense. Other notable players that have been injured for the Giants this season include defensive ends Jason PierrePaul and Olivier Vernon, linebackers Jonathan Casillas and Kelvin Sheppard, and wide receiver Brandon Marshall. All signs report to this being the last start in a Giants uniform for Eli Manning, who has two years remaining on his current contract. Although Manning has two years remaining, the Giants
JAKE RINEHART Staff Writer The New York Giants voted unanimously to bench starting quarterback Eli Manning on Tuesday. Manning has played 14 seasons in the NFL, all with the Giants, and has accumulated a streak of 210 consecutive starts at quarterback for the G-Men. That streak will come to an end this Sunday when the Giants start Geno Smith in Manning’s place. Manning ranks 10th on the Most Consecutive Starts in NFL History with 210 consecutive starts, including 12 consecutive starts in the playoffs. Manning has started every game for the Giants dating back to November 21, 2004. Manning is a two-time Super Bowl Champion, twotime Super Bowl MVP, and a four-time Pro Bowl player in his 14-year career. The benching of Eli rais-
do not owe him any more money, as they already have paid him all of his guaranteed money. Therefore, the Giants could cut Manning without having to pay him money. The only affect that would result in cutting Manning would be a salary cap hit of $12.4 million in 2018 and $6.2 million in 2019. Comparatively speaking, those are manageable cap hits for the Giants, who are located in the number one market in the nation. The Giants plan to start quarterback Geno Smith, 27, this week when they play against the Oakland Raiders, and are hopeful that their 2017 third-round draft pick, Davis Webb, 22, will also see some playing time. The possibility of the Giants trading Manning is very low. The NFL is currently in a youth movement when it comes to the quarterback position, and the aging Manning would not add significant value to a team that is trying to make a late playoff run. The issue with Manning is that he throws too many interceptions. Excluding this season, due to his benching, he has only thrown less than
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
10 interceptions once in his career, when he threw 10 interceptions during the 2008 season. Quarterback Geno Smith was drafted in the second round in 2013 by the New York Jets. When given the opportunity to start for the Jets in 2013, Smith was abysmal. He recorded only 12 touchdowns, while throwing 21 interceptions and losing four fumbles on the year. Smith had some playing time for the Jets in 2015 when he replaced the injured Ryan Fitzpatrick. Smith ended up getting injured during the game, forcing the Jets to substitute him with the injured Fitzpatrick. In his last
NFL start, Smith only survived eight pass attempts before having to be replaced by Fitzpatrick. The Giants may also opt for Davis Webb, a thirdround draft pick in 2017 from the University of California – Berkeley. In his only season at Cal, Webb threw for over 4,000 yards and 37 touchdowns, while only allowing 12 interceptions in 12 games. The Giants have a lot of question marks entering the game against the Oakland Raiders, but one thing that is for certain is that Eli Manning will not be the starter and his time in New York may finally be coming to an end.
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MSU Reporter • 17
Sports
NFL: Wentz, Rhodes among those who deserve hardware
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
COLTON MOLESKY Staff Writer Though it is not the end of the season, it is the end of the semester and when we return for work at the Reporter it will be in the middle of the playoffs. So before we head out for winter break, it is time to select the winners for this year’s regular season awards. Note: This is the real awards, MVP, coach of the year, offensive player, etc. I will not
be giving out the air-ground award. Do not be silly. MVP - Carson Wentz, Quarterback, Philadelphia Eagles The Philadelphia Eagles are rolling to the No. 1 seed and will be good for at least one victory in the postseason. The Eagles star quarterback has passed for 2,657 yards and 28 touchdowns in 11 games. While Wentz has been lights out, maybe his best asset has been his Aaron Rodgers-like ability to escape sure sacks and extend plays to keep the Eagles offense moving. He is the star player on the team America cannot stop talking about. Best team, best player, MVP. Offensive Player Of The
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
Year - Antonio Brown, Wide Receiver, Pittsburgh Steelers Antonio Brown is double-covered every single game and it does not matter in the slightest. The star receiver has single-handedly won games for the Pittsburgh Steelers like the one against Green Bay. He has racked up 1,195 yards on 80 receptions, averaging 14.9 yards per reception while adding eight touchdowns. He is dependable, with the ability to always make a play or add a spark. He is also durable, which helps him edge out competition like A.J. Green or Julio Jones. Consistently showing up, making a difference and winning games. Defensive Player Of The Year - Xavier Rhodes, Cornerback, Minnesota Vikings Yeah, call it hometown biased or claim he has struggled because you saw him blow a couple plays while you were stuffed with Turkey. This is the best defensive player in football, consistently locking up the best player on the other team week-after-week and playing as the lynchpin in the defense. He has made the rest of the secondary look elite around him because he constantly forces a team to their second option and can sit alone on an island. When an elite corner plays, a lot of it is eye test. Since Rhodes doesn’t get a lot of passes thrown his way, his two interceptions may fool people into thinking he has had a down year. Do not be misled, this is one of the best putting on a show. Offensive Rookie Of The Year - Alvin Kamara, Running Back, New Orleans Saints After some thinning of
the backfield happened in New Orleans, the Tennessee product exploded, showing his home run talent time and time again. He has racked up 1,094 total yards and nine touchdowns. He does so much for the offense, from between the tackles running, to bouncing out on a pitch, to running a route. Not only has he seen his snap count triple since the Adrian Peterson departure, but he also still has a month to put up stats. Defensive Rookie Of The Year - Jamal Adams, Safety, New York Jets The LSU Tigers stud from the Bayou is racking up 52 tackles and has a pair of both sacks and forced fumbles. On a poor team like the Jets, he
is a reason to watch with how he flies around and makes plays. He has three passes defended as well, as he is a stud in coverage and is a monster when playing down in the box. After playing in the SEC, he is used to hardnosed, smash mouth football that does not shy away from dishing out contact. Coach Of The Year - Doug Marrone, Jacksonville Jaguars This hinges on if they are able to make a playoff, but he has built a fantastic defense through free agency and the draft. More impressively, he has been able to win with Blake Bortles as his quarterback. The man may be a football god.
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
18 • MSU Reporter
Sports
Thursday, November 30, 2017
A farewell piece from the sports editor
Photo courtesy of David Bassey
er.
TOMMY WIITA Sports Editor Arriving to Mankato as a transfer student, I was eager to explore the University. I had kept my eyes on Minnesota State—Mankato for the decent tuition costs, distance from home, and the friendly feeling the campus provided. My first legitimate job in Mankato was a job at The Reporter as a sports writer. I found the job on the site known as Mav Jobs, and thought it would be a slick side gig to my schooling and other jobs. Never did I intend to make a career of the position. The sports editor at the time, Joey Denton, was one of the best editors I have had the chance to work with. He helped me improve my work and get better over time. Prior to Mankato, I had already switched my major three times, struggling to find something that would keep my interest. Starting in law enforcement, to post-secondary education, then finally sports management when I transferred to Mankato in 2014. My major would soon change again, as The Reporter provided some persuasive experiences to go into the mass media major. My first big story at The Reporter was a feature on a senior football player named Keyvan Rudd. The interview with him was a joy, and before I knew it I was having a ball of a time as a sports writ-
Then there was the “Wolves after Dark” event held at Bresnan Arena. The Minnesota Timberwolves were just beginning to draft some relevant talent that year, with Zach Lavine, Andrew Wiggins and the late Flip Saunders coming to town. Having the opportunity to meet some of these players and chatting with Saunders is something I will always remember and cherish. I will also be thankful for the other opportunities I had with The Reporter, such as covering the Minnesota Twins on Jackie Robinson Day, the Minnesota Vikings Training Camp for three seasons, the Vikings playoff game that included a kick going wide left, and the Timberwolves hosting their summer league showcase at the Target Center in Karl-Anthony Towns’ rookie debut. If someone would have told me I would be doing these things as a job three years ago, I would have easily been surprised. Sports have always been my passion, and what The Reporter did for me was confirm that. Through all of the regular issues, Sports Zones, and wonderful people I have met along the way, The Reporter will always be a place I can reminisce on where I started. I may not know where exactly I will finish in life, but I will always know my start began in CSU 293. I have so many thanks to give. Some writers I would like to give a shout out to are Corey Yuman, Colt Johnson, James Andersen, Colton Molesky, Ryan Sjoberg, and Sean Morawczynski. All of you guys helped me be a
better editor and provided great work for The Reporter. Jake Rinehart was recently hired as a new sports writer, and he has quite the knack for the job going forward. Kevin Korbel will be The Reporter’s new sports editor, and I have all the confidence in him as he takes over. One former writer I specifically value is my girlfriend Chelsea Dorval, as she may be the greatest woman I have ever met in my life. Without The Reporter, there would be no relationship between her and I. I also want to thank all
my office friends along the way, beginning with Graphics Manager Dana Clark and Business Manager Jane Tastad. You two are fantastic people, and I want to say thank you for all that you have helped me with along the way. To all my past Editor-in-Chiefs, to the current one in Gabe Hewitt, and the other Section Editors I have worked with: thank you for being good people and a joy to work with. Finally, I want to thank the coaches and athletes at MSU and the local high schools that helped with Sports Zone.
Without your help, none of this would have been possible to produce great reads in the sports section. Life is a ride, and I have learned that the ride only picks up speed as you grow. I will miss Minnesota State University—Mankato, the friends made, and the events experienced. To the readers of The Reporter: thank you for your support, and I hope the readership carries on through you and others reading this. Go Mavs, forever.
Student Action Required Complete Consent and Respect Complete by December 8, 2017 • Each student with one or more credit is now enrolled in the online Consent and Respect course. • State of Minnesota law requires sexual assault training for students at all Minnesota colleges and universities. • Print the certificates of completion and keep for your records. To get started, login to the student portal using your StarID and password at the following link: https://my.mnsu.edu/titleix-sso/. The training includes education on consent, bystander empowerment, sexual violence, reporting, healthy relationships, and survivors, along with local and national laws and resources. Questions? Contact: eotitleix@mnsu.edu
Thursday, November 30, 2017
MSU Reporter • 19
Sports
Christie’s fight for sports betting heads to Supreme Court NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — Five years after being sued by the four major pro sports leagues and scolded by their top executives for seeking to overturn a federal ban on sports gambling, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie may be on the verge of having the last word. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments Monday in New Jersey’s challenge to the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, the 1992 law that barred all states but Nevada and three others from authorizing sports gambling. Nevada is the only state to offer single-game wagering. Christie said Wednesday he will attend Monday’s arguments and that he is “cautiously optimistic.” A decision is due by late spring, and states across the country are poised to offer sports gambling if the court strikes down all or part of the law. New Jersey’s Monmouth Park Racetrack already has spent more than $1 million to build a lounge that can be transformed into a sports betting parlor in a matter of weeks.
It’s been a long road for Christie, who put a sports betting referendum on the ballot in 2011 that passed overwhelmingly. He signed a law in 2012 allowing it at casinos and racetracks and was sued by the NFL, NHL, NBA, Major League Baseball and the NCAA, all of which argued that expanding gambling would damage the integrity of their games. In depositions, then-NBA Commissioner David Stern said New Jersey “has no idea what it’s doing and doesn’t care because all it’s interested in is making a buck or two.” Then-MLB Commissioner Bud Selig said he was “really appalled” by Christie’s actions. Both commissioners’ successors have taken a different tack, and have acknowledged that legalized gambling is likely to happen and can enhance fans’ interest. Of the four leagues, only the NFL has remained steadfastly opposed to legalized gambling Christie said Wednesday he used the same approach to sports betting as when he was U.S. attorney for New
Jersey before becoming governor. “I used to ask the assistant U.S. attorneys to sit around the table and give me all the different odds about winning and losing and what they thought about the judge, or about the jury, and I would finally get down to say: ‘Do you think he’s guilty or don’t you? And can you prove it beyond a reasonable doubt?’” he said. “In this instance I was like, ‘Do we believe we’re right? Do we believe states have the right to determine for themselves what happens regarding gaming inside their own borders?’ I believe we’re right.” Federal judges have not agreed. The case was met with defeat at the district court level in New Jersey and twice at the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia. It also has cost New Jersey taxpayers millions in legal fees — nearly $3 million alone from August 2012, when the leagues filed suit, to the end of the following year. Christie said Wednesday the effort will have been
worth it even if the court rules against the state. “If you’re unwilling to take risks, then you’re never going to achieve great things,” he said. “Sometimes that means you take risks and the risks don’t work out. I think we made an educated risk. No matter which way it goes, I
defensive coordinator (Zimmer) when they come to US Bank Stadium. Currently, the Bengals have no statistical offensive categories in the top 25 rankings in the league. Minnesota should be able to eat up the clock and give the defense some rest throughout the game because Andy Dalton and Co. shouldn’t be seeing much of the field. Part two of Packer week lands on the calendar in week 16. And for the first time since the days of Brett Favre, the Vikings have a legitimate chance to win both games against Green Bay (pending the return of the injured Aaron Rodgers). “I don’t think it’s a matter of ‘if’, I think it’s a matter of ‘when’ Rodgers comes back this season,” said lifelong Packer fan Ryan Sjoberg. “He has been participating in practice in limited capacity and participating throwing drills, now he’s just waiting to get off IR [in week 15].” The regular season will close out as it did last year with a New Year’s Eve (one day earlier) game against the Chicago Bears at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The Bears have had tremendous success this season with finding out that Mike Glennon was not the answer at quarterback. The 2017 second-overall pick in the NFL
Draft, Mitchell Trubisky, has taken over the reins of Chicago and hopes to lead the Bears to another high draft pick as the team sits at 3-8. One bright spot for the Bears is its eighth-ranked rushing-
think it was the right decision to make. And by the way, it was the will of the people who voted in a referendum in broad numbers that they wanted sports gaming in their state. So part of this is also making sure you execute upon the will of the people you represent.”
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
VIKINGS continued from 15 Potentially the last hurdle for the Vikings to get over this season will be against Carolina, the second of backto-back road games for Minnesota. The Panthers have quietly climbed to an 8-3 record after a nauseating Super Bowl hangover in their 2016 campaign. While the Panthers aren’t as formidable offensively as the Falcons, they still prove to be a resilient team that can also hold it down on defense. Carolina’s fifthranked rushing attack made up of Cam Newton, rookie Christian McCaffrey and vet-
eran running back Jonathon Stewart could pose problems for the Vikings’ NFL-secondbest rushing defense. Things start to settle down on the schedule for the Vikings following the game against the Panthers. The only road game left after week 14 is usually the one most circled for Vikings fans; that is week 16 at the historic Lambeau Field. First, Minnesota must travel back home to face a mediocre Bengals team. The Cincinnati Bengals should beware of their former
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
yards-per-game at 120.4. The Vikings have only allowed 75.5 in the same category. The Vikings have a lot to prove in order to keep their dream season alive, starting this Sunday at Atlanta.
20 • MSU Reporter
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Thursday, November 30, 2017