Feb-18-2011

‘Oklahoma!’ opens at NDSU Feb. 23 Page 5 F R I D AY

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STATE FARGO, N.D. (AP) -- Volunteers shoveled heaps of sand and carefully maneuvered around humming machinery Monday inside a warehouse dubbed “Sandbag Central” in Fargo, where officials hope to pile up 3 million sandbags as the eastern North Dakota city prepares for a third major flood in as many years. Efforts are starting early to prepare for flooding along the Red River in Fargo and neighboring Moorhead, Minn. The National Weather Service predicts that spring snow melt will help swell the river over its flood stage, possibly breaking the record set in 2009 when floods caused an estimated $100 million in damage.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota Vikings may have found a partner Tuesday in their bid for a new stadium, when a county board voted to explore what it would take to lure the team out of Minneapolis and into the suburbs.

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners voted 6-1 to begin discussions with the team and state officials about building a new stadium at the site of a former Army ammunition plant in Arden Hills, about 10 miles northeast of Minneapolis. The vote makes Ramsey County the first municipality to officially express interest in hosting a new stadium as the Vikings seek to leave or replace the aging Metrodome.

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The Spectrum

FEBRUARY 18, 2011

NEWS BRIEFS

Meet-a-Bison: Michael Tveidt

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Facebook users plan counter protest NICOLE ROBERSON News Reporter

Facebook news feeds have been buzzing for the past few weeks with talk of Fargo South High’s (FSH) upcoming production of the Laramie Project, and perhaps even more so about the Westboro Baptist Church’s intentions of protesting. These intentions alone have led to the creation of several Facebook events meant to organize counter protests.

Also on Facebook is an event for the play itself, set to be presented on Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m., Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. and Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m. The page also displays a brief synopsis of the play.

The Laramie Project is a production that focuses on the story of Matthew Shepard, a University of Wyoming student who was beaten to death because of his sexuality.

Ten years later, members of Tectonic Theater Project visited the town of Laramie to in-

terview some of the community members and develop this production.

The project’s website, www.thelaramieproject.org, states that the play has been performed over 2,000 times worldwide.

FSH’s upcoming performance has sparked the interest of the Westboro Baptist Church (WBC), whose members are notorious for their anti-gay protests.

WBC’s website lists several upcoming planned protests, including that of FSH, which they are planning to do on Feb. 20 from 6:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

However, there are many people doubting that the WBC members will even follow through with their plans, brushing them off as empty threats. Lt. Joel Vettel of the Fargo Police Department said in last Friday’s issue of The Forum that the chances are low and police are expecting about a dozen protesters, if any.

Furthermore, the police seem to be more worried about how locals will react to the protest.

“

I don't want this event to only be seen as a counter protest. I also want it to be seen as an event to celebrate diversity and acceptance in our community...

–Kelsey Hedman, creator of the Facebook event The Facebook event created to counter protest comes off as a peaceful affair, asking attendees to be respectable and to not “stoop down to this church’s level.”

The “More Info” section also stresses that this counter-

protest is to support the actors in the play and honor the life of the victim portrayed in the play.

Kelsey Hedman, a freshman at NDSU and a graduate of Fargo South, is the person who created this Facebook event.

“I don't want this event to only be seen as a counterprotest. I also want it to be seen as an event to celebrate diversity and acceptance in our community, so if the WBC doesn't show up we still have the opportunity to do that which I think is great,” Hedman said. “I would much rather see people holding signs promoting the play, love, or acceptance than bashing the WBC, we shouldn't waste our energy on negative stuff like that. If we direct all of our energy towards hating them we are no better than them.”

The Facebook event has more than 1,900 attendees who agreed to attend.

For more information about the counter-protest, see the

Note: According to an official news release from the Fargo Police Department on Wednesday, the Westboro Baptist Church is no longer planning on picketing the showing of the Laramie Project. However, as of Wednesday, plans for the counterprotest are moving forward.

SEE MORE Protest on Page 2 >>

CHELSEY THRONSON Co-News Editor

Next week, the NDSU counseling center will be offering students a week full of activities geared toward promoting positive body image in recognition of Eating Disorder Awareness Week.

The events will include belly dancing lessons, brown bag seminars, a photo contest and a keynote speaker.

According to a poll conducted by the National Eating Disorder Association, 19.6 percent of college students admitted to having an eating disorder, out of those students, 75 percent never received treatment.

Marlys Borkuis, assistant director of NDSU’s counseling center, encourages students struggling with eating disorders to seek help as soon as they can.

“On our campus, students may seek help at the counseling center or at student health and, if this level of treatment is appropriate for their concerns, we will continue to work with them,” Borkuis said. “If they need a more intensive treatment, they will be referred to Eating Disorder Institute.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -Florida Gov. Rick Scott canceled plans for a high-speed train line between Orlando and Tampa promoted by President Barack Obama, saying Wednesday it would cost the state too much even with $2.4 billion in federal help. Cost overruns could put Florida on the hook for another $3 billion and once completed, there's a good chance ridership won’t pay for the operating cost, meaning the state would have to pump more money into the line each year, Scott said.

WORLD CAIRO (AP) -- At least 365 people died in the 18 days of anti-government protests that pushed out longtime Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak, the Health Ministry said Wednesday in the first official accounting of the death toll.

Minister Ahmed Sameh Farid said it was only a preliminary count of civilians killed and did not include police or prisoners. And while Mubarak is gone, frustration with the quality of life - from working conditions to environmental concerns - has kept demonstrators in the streets as the economy continues to falter.

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event on Facebook entitled “Westboro Baptist Church PEACEFUL COUNTERPROTEST/Celebration of Diversity.”

Promoting a positive body image

ATLANTA (AP) -- A tuberculosis outbreak among workers at a Tennessee elephant sanctuary is being blamed on the pachyderms. Elephants can carry TB, and there have been reports of them spreading it to people who touch them. But three of the eight workers infected with TB in 2009 weren't in direct contact with the elephants.

WEATHER

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NATIONAL

OSLO, Norway (AP) -- A Norwegian shipping magnate was strongly criticized Wednesday for suggesting that pirates captured off the Horn of Africa should be sunk with their skiffs or executed on the spot.

“When (piracy) implies a great risk of being caught and hanged, and the cost of losing ships and weapons becomes too big, it will decrease and eventually disappear,” Jacob Stolt-Nielsen said in an op-ed in Norwegian financial newspaper Dagens Naeringsliv.

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Events for Eating Disorder Awareness Week include:

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Many students travel through the thawing snow around the current construction project by Minard Hall.

The building is currently adding on an addition to accommodate the growing population at NDSU. According to the Feb. 15 issue of It’s Happening at State, NDSU has experienced its 12th consecutive year of increased enrollment. As of Feb. 8, there are 13,533 students enrolled in NDSU undergraduate, professional and graduate programs. This is an increase of more than 100 students over the last year.

News

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Features

4-5

Study Break

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Opinion

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Sports

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Have a story idea?

The Spectrum welcomes all students and staff to submit story ideas for any section.

Editorial Staff: Editor-In-Chief: Brianna Ehley at Editor@ndsuspectrum.com Co-News Editor: Chelsey Thronson at co.news@ndsuspectrum.com Co-News Editor: Laura Muz at co.news1@ndsuspectrum.com

Tuesday- Belly dancing lessons at the Wallman Wellness Center at 8p.m.

Wednesday- Brown Bag seminar- Healthy Gone Bad Thursday- Inside Out: “Talking about Eating Disorders” Colleen Coffey, shares her personal story of confronting these issues in her life at 7:30 p.m. in the Memorial Union’s Ballroom.

Friday- Skinny jean clothing donation at the Memorial Union and Wellness Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Events can be found at www.ndsu.edu/counseling Features Editor: Linda Vasquez at features@ndsuspectrum.com Arts and Entertainment Editor: Emily Hanson at ae@ndsuspectrum Opinion Editor: Rylee Nelson at opinion@ndsuspectrum.com Sports Editor: Daniel Gunderson at sports@ndsuspectrum.com

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Chelsey Thronson Co-News Editor Phone: 231-5260 | Email: co.news@ndsuspectrum.com

News

800 Café brings healthy options to lunchtime Dietetic students serve low-cal food to the NDSU community LAURA MUZ Co-News Editor

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

While many students currently enjoy eating lunch in NDSU’s food court at shops such as the Hoagie Hut, starting Tuesday, students will have another dining option: The 800 Café.

Starting next week, the NDSU community will have a new dining option during lunch hour.

Dietetic students enrolled in a food production management class will open the 800 Café on Tuesday in the Family Life Center, room 312. The café will seat guests and serve low-calorie food from 11 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday until April 28.

Lauren Reed, a junior, and Stephanie Bechtle, a senior, both majoring in dietetics, will manage the café during its first week of operation, called spring fever. Each day of operation, a different student will serve as manager, while the other students of the class will assist with general food preparation and serving.

Reed explained the class is meant to teach students how to run a food service organization. When preparing meals for the café, students have to meet specific guidelines based on nutrients and nutrition.

The name of the student-run dining service, the 800 Café, signifies the roughly 800 calories that make up each prepared meal.

“Hopefully a lot of students will come, because the food is all homemade and fresh,” Reed said.

“

Hopefully a lot of students will come, because the food is all homemade and fresh.

–Lauren Reed According to Reed, the first week’s menu will start with a naan bread sampler with roasted red pepper hummus and fresh tzatziki sauce. The entrée will consist of an applefeta chicken salad with avocado, cranberries and homemade parsley vinaigrette dressing, and for dessert customers will receive homemade chocolate upside cake with whipped topping and berries.

The students will be serving

President Bresciani on Tuesday.

The 800 Café menus will change each week. Each meal is $7, and a three-meal punch card can be purchased for $20 according to an NDSU press release.

Asked how the operation of the 800 Café will apply to her major, Reed explained that a lot of individual dietary factors go into the preparation process.

“There are so many different aspects of dietetics, and food service is one of them,” Reed said. “We had recipe testing where we had to weigh everything, so [the class] kind of teaches us about the real world ropes of food service, and about the timing and managing as well.”

Meals are available for takeout, and according to the press release, while walk-ins are a welcomed, reservations are preferred as seating is limited.

To make a reservation at the 800 Café, contact Rhonda Klubben at Rhonda.Klubben@ndsu.edu or 231-7487.

No protest Mustache growth key in spreading word at ND high school play

HoDo raises cancer awareness MATT SEVERNS Spectrum Staff

Residents of the FargoMoorhead area may have been seeing more mustachioed men -- and perhaps even women -- than usual since Feb. 1.

The Hotel Donaldson in downtown Fargo kicked off its month of awareness aimed at both promoting prostate cancer awareness and raising funds to benefit the community's members who may be dealing with it.

With $44,000 raised during last year’s event, the American Cancer Society, who the Hotel Donaldson has partnered with, has been able to help many people struggling with cancer in the F-M area.

All throughout the month, all people are encouraged to grow mustaches to help raise awareness about prostate cancer. The reward will come at the end of what the Hotel Donaldson affectionately calls

FeBROary, when the Bros on Broadway event will award a “best in show” award to a mighty mustache.

Those familiar with the F-M area have probably noticed that in October, the Hotel Donaldson is covered with bras. This is part of the Bras on Broadway event, which is aimed at breast cancer awareness. “[Bros on Broadway] is definitely a spinoff of Bras on Broadway. The guys asked why there wasn’t one for them and they got this event,” Alison Ottesen, general manager of the Hotel Donaldson said.

The Bros on Broadway, although not generally quite as popular, is still a significant event for the F-M residents affected by cancer.

“With bras, it is with breast cancer. The bras get a lot of attention. We are trying to get a boxer garland but it probably won't be quite as big,” Ottesen said.

Bros on Broadway relies on

follicular flaunting as a means of promoting awareness for the event. For those unable to grow a mustache, participation is still allowed.

The Hotel Donaldson encourages imagination.

“The basics are grow it, flow it and show it. There are no rules on the matter.

Do whatever makes you happy, even if it is shaving. If you’ve been waiting all winter for a reason to kick the razor to the curb, do it. Rock it.

Grow it,” the Bros on Broadway website says.

Although the promotion of mustache growth and the prospect of a boxer garland can seem somewhat silly, the reason behind them is not.

In 2009, the first year of the Bros on Broadway event, the American Cancer Society reported that in North Dakota alone, there were 560 cases of prostate cancer and 100 deaths resulting from them.

To combat this, the Hotel Donaldson sought out ways to

both raise money and keep it local.

Other prostate-cancer-fighting organizations, such as Movember, which encourages participants to grow mustaches in November, wouldn’t allow the money raised to stay in the F-M area.

“We wanted to keep the money local, so we partnered with the American Cancer Society and switched the month,” Ottesen said.

Even with no goal officially set, Bros on Broadway is expected to raise a significant amount of money.

Informational meetings in late January filled rooms of interested team members.

The Bros on Broadway event will take place 6-10 p.m.

Feb. 24 at the Hotel Donaldson. Tickets, which cost $50, are still available at http://brosonbroadway.com/.

All proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society and will directly help local residents.

Computer crushes the competition From the Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) -- The computer brained its human competition in Game 1 of the Man vs. Machine competition on “Jeopardy!”

On the 30-question game board, veteran “Jeopardy!” champs Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter managed only five correct responses between them during the Double Jeopardy round that aired Tuesday. They ended the first game of the two-game face-off with paltry earnings of $4,800 and $10,400 respectively.

Watson, their IBM supercomputer nemesis, emerged The Spectrum is published Tuesdays and Fridays during the academic year, except during holidays, vacations and exam periods.

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from the Final Jeopardy round with $35,734.

Tuesday's competition began with Jennings (who has the longest “Jeopardy!” winning streak at 74 games) making the first choice. But Watson jumped in with the correct response: What is leprosy?

He followed that with bangon responses Franz Liszt, dengue fever, violin, Rachmaninoff and albinism, then landed on a Daily Double in the “Cambridge” category.

“I’ll wager $6,435,” Watson (named for IBM founder Thomas J. Watson) said in his pleasant electronic voice.

“I won’t ask,” said host Alex Trebek, wondering with everybody else where the figure came from.

But Watson knew what he was doing. Sir Christopher Wren was the correct response, and Watson’s total vaulted to $21,035 as the humans stood by helplessly.

Watson blew his next response. But so did both his opponents. He guessed Picasso.

Jennings guessed Cubism.

Rutter guessed Impressionism. (Correct question: What is modern art?)

Back to Watson, who soon hit the game’s second Daily Double. But even when he was

only 32 percent sure (you could see his precise level of certainty displayed on the screen), Watson correctly guessed Baghdad as the city from whose national museum the ancient Lion of Nimrud ivory relief went missing (along with “a lot of other stuff”) in 2003. Watson added $1,246 to his stash.

He even correctly identified the Church Lady character from “Saturday Night Live.”

One answer stumped everyone: “A Titian portrait of this Spanish king was stolen at gunpoint from an Argentine museum in 1987.” (Correct response: Philip.) Jennings

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North Dakota high school students trying to create publicity for their school play sent messages to a Kansas-based fundamentalist church known for its anti-gay protests, hoping Westboro Baptist Church members would announce plans to picket the production.

It put police on alert, sparked plans for a counterprotest, and might have gotten the students in trouble.

But Fargo police said they were told Wednesday by church members that they would not protest Fargo South High School's production Sunday of “The Laramie Project,” a play about the killing of a gay man in Wyoming in the late 1990s.

Minnesota Public Radio reported that some cast members posted on a Facebook site that has since been taken down that they sent the Westboro church e-mails under fake names, pretending to be offended by the play.

The ploy was revealed when the parent of another cast member complained, saying

her bisexual daughter felt threatened. Cindy Gomez said inviting the Westboro Baptist Church to picket the play “is the complete opposite of the message of tolerance the play attempts to teach.”

School district spokesman Lowell Wolff said an investigation found a “degree of naivety” among the students but that it did not appear they meant any harm. He said he could not comment on student discipline other than to say officials followed school district policies regarding Internet use and harassment.

Superintendent Rick Buresh said he is viewing the situation as “a whole collection of good learning experiences for kids.”

Kelsey Hedman, a Fargo South graduate who now attends North Dakota State University, said the news that cast members “invited a hate group to the community is a huge slap in the face” to the gay cast members at the high school and to the community.

Police said they believe a group will demonstrate at Fargo South in support of the play.

shook his head. Rutter wrenched his face. Watson, as usual, seemed unfazed.

Even when he bungled Final Jeopardy, Watson (with his 10 offstage racks of computer servers) remained poised.

The answer: “Its largest airport is named for a World War II hero; its second largest, for a World War II battle.”

Both Jennings and Rutter knew the right response was

Chicago.

Watson guessed doubtfully, “What is Toronto?????” It didn’t matter. He had shrewdly wagered only $947.

The trio will return on Wednesday, when their second game is aired. The overall winner will collect $1 million.

The bouts were taped at the IBM research center in Yorktown Heights, N.Y., last month.

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From the Associated Press

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News

Baldacious raises money for charity FarmHouse Fraternity sports wild designs on their heads for The Leukemia Lymphoma Society

All Photos by Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

FarmHouse Fraternity had an all-week fundraising event called Baldacious to raise money for their national philanthropy, The Leukemia Lymphoma Society, by selling their heads to have designs made on them.

CHELSEY THRONSON Co-News Editor

Throughout the week, members of FarmHouse Fraternity have been sporting rambunctious designs on their heads for charity.

Most designs include shaving heads nearly bald and creating shapes, words or designs out of the remaining hair.

They “sold” their heads to raise money for The Leukemia Lymphoma Society, their national philanthropy.

Baldacious is the name of the fundraiser and according to coordi-

nator Shane Wehlage. Members in the Memorial Union looking to have been excited and energetic collect more donations from the about the project throughout the en- NDSU community. tire week.

About 15 members sold their heads for $75 each to raise money. Those who did not sell their head shaved The main reason you them bald at the beginning of the can tell somebody has week.

Fraternity and sororities on cam- cancer is by their head, pus pitched in to make the designs so we kind of brought and at the end of the week the Farmattention to our heads House members will shave them off by either shaving it or and be bald.

The fundraiser has raised around selling them. $900 so far and more money is ex- –Shane Wehlage pected to come in. Throughout the week members sat at a contact table Wehlage has a squirrel designed on

“

his head, and other designs range from Greek house letters to comical dedications to mothers.

Wehlage said their efforts have been highly successful at attracting positive attention and awareness around campus.

“The main reason you can tell somebody has cancer is by their head, so we kind of brought attention to our heads by either shaving it or selling them,” Wehlage said.

This is the first year the fraternity decided to do Baldacious on a larger scale. In previous years, only FarmHouse members participated in the fundraiser.

“It’s going really well. Last year we

didn’t open it up to selling heads on campus, we did that this year and we increased by about $250,” Wehlage said.

Seven Greek houses around campus including FarmHouse participated in Baldacious by purchasing heads.

Parents were also invited to join the cause.

“The majority of the money comes from other Greek houses on campus, [and] we get some donations from parents and other students,” Wehlage said.

Teachers getting soft sell on pay changes From the Associated Press

DENVER (AP) -- Over skits and snacks, hundreds of teachers from around the country on Wednesday got a soft sell from the U.S. Department of Education to become more open-minded about new pay and evaluation systems.

At the second and final day of the first national summit among teachers' unions, school administrators and school board members representing some 150 districts from 40 states heard glowing reports from districts that have already shifted how they evaluate and train teachers.

The summit is billed by Education Secretary Arne Duncan as a groundbreaking effort to build trust between unions and the leaders who sometimes are their adversaries. Participants spent most of the short summit hearing how great things are in the dozen school districts presenting how they achieved payfor-performance teacher compensation and other changes that align with what federal education officials say are needed reforms.

It’s a whirlwind pitch covering 10 sweeping points federal educators want schools to consider, from evaluating teachers in new ways to handling layoffs demanded by budget cuts in many areas.

“There’s so little time - they couldn’t really go in depth, so they act like this is the easiest thing in the world, and we know that that's not so,” said Earl Rickman, school board president in Mt. Clemens, Mich., which recently agreed to a merit-pay system with its teachers’ union.

A sixth-grade teacher from Rickman's school district, Kevin Marvin, leads the teachers’ union there and agreed the selling pitch for merit pay and other changes was a bit one-dimensional. But he gave high marks to the effort to remind school leaders that teachers are willing to make changes but need to be persuaded the reforms will help kids.

“Something we’ve never

looked at is how our labor agreements affect student achievement,” Marvin said.

Federal officers made clear schools have little choice but to make changes to how teachers are evaluated and trained.

They tried to sell teachers and administrators on the idea that change is needed even when it's scary and painful.

All sides agree that kids come first, but the unions and administrators were told they need to work harder to iron out what all sides don’t agree on.

“Honestly accept the burden of the entire conversation, from aspirations to problemsolving to the tough conversations,” said Brad Jupp, a senior program adviser for the U.S. Department of Education.

Jupp was moderating a panel in which a Denver teacher shared her anxieties when moving into the school district with a pay-for-performance system.

The teacher, Lori Nazareno of Denver’s Math and Science Leadership Academy, explained that she came around to the idea after learning that teachers would be rewarded for working at traditionally low-performing schools and that student tests weren't the only standard used to measure teachers' performance.

“The opportunities for teacher leadership, teacher empowerment, teachers taking control of the system, that's significant,” Nazareno said.

The rah-rah talk about education reforms was mixed in with skits from Chicago’s famed Second City comedy troupe in which actors pretended to be a bickering union leader, superintendent and school board member.

It all seemed a bit hokey to some, but participants said the underlying theme is that changes are inevitable and don't have to be as painful as some fear.

“All the districts here are in the same boat. We’re learning how to do this, how to work together,” said Ralph Hernandez, school board president in Buffalo, N.Y.

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

With spring around the corner, thawing snow and sunny skies have become more common on campus, as students begin to replace their winter boots with rain boots.

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Linda Vasquez Features Editor Phone: 231-5260 | Email: features@ndsuspectrum.com

Features Rapper feud heats up

LINDA VASQUEZ

Submitted Photos

Left: “Paper Apples” by Changmin Lee. Center: “Cow Skull” by Arthur Bowling Right: “Sink” by Sam Schultz.

Features Editor

Lil’Kim (Kimberly Denise Jones) recently released her new album cover featuring a beheaded Nicki Minaj.

For those of you that had no idea there was even a feud between the two self-proclaimed “rap queens,” here is how it began and why it keeps continuing.

According to mtv.com the situation escalated when Jones first made a statement about Minaj’s career.

“If you’re gonna swagger jack somebody and take their style at least pay them respect and homage,” Jones said.

Apparently, Jones claimed Minaj stole her style and never gave her thanks for paving the way for her in the rap world.

But Minaj wouldn’t have it.

She quickly fired back with releasing the song “Roman’s Revenge,” in which Minaj calls Jones a “has been,” a “li’l brag a lot” among other things.

And it didn’t stop there.

During interviews, TV spots and even during their concerts they criticized each other.

In a radio interview with Philly 100.3, Jones shared her feelings about Minaj.

“She knew what she was doing, that’s to make people feel sorry for her,” Jones argued.

Minaj then responded back by stating that Jones was only receiving attention because of her.

“You know, the same way she opened doors for me, I’m now opening doors for her,” Minaj stated. “Now you getting interviews and now every one you do, they asking you about Nicki Minaj.”

The feud has been going on for about six months now and there is no evidence of it stopping.

After releasing Pink Friday back in November, Minaj continues to rap about Jones in her songs.

On top of that, Jones has taken their rivalry to the next level by dedicating her entire new album to her animosity towards the newcomer.

Not only is her album titled “Black Friday,” (cleverly named after Minaj’s debut) she also made a track with the same name, much like Minaj’s “Pink Friday” track.

The cover, however, tells it all.

Jones’ “Black Friday” cover features the rapper sitting in a black background with a bloody sword in her hand.

Then behind Jones is a decapitated body resembling Minaj’s position in her Pink Friday album cover.

Along with the beheaded body lays a head with pink hair in a pile of blood -referring to Minaj’s wig she so often wears.

No comments have yet been said by Minaj about the new Jones cover.

“

If you’re gonna swagger jack somebody and take their style at least pay them respect and homage. -Lil’ Kim It is not certain if this feud will ever conclude, but if it doesn’t end soon, Minaj and Jones could end up like Notorius B.I.G and TuPac and we definitely don’t want that to happen.

Bison life: Award-winning artists JAMIE JARMIN Spectrum Staff

Three students have had the opportunity to be recognized for their artwork through a show simply titled the NDSU Student Juried Art Show.

The winners this year included: Changmin Lee, a senior majoring in art who won best in show; Sam Schultz, a senior majoring in art who placed second; and Arthur Bowling, a freshman majoring in art who received third place.

The winners’ art pieces are placed on display in the Memorial Union Gallery.

“The show contains a variety of mediums ranging from sculptures to paintings, and everything in between,” the NDSU website mentioned.

David Lewellyn, artist from Bismarck State College and graduate of NDSU, was the student show juror this

year.

After 60 submissions, 37 pieces were chosen to be displayed in the MU Gallery.

Winners were announced during the show’s reception on Jan. 27.

“Paper Apples,” created by Lee earned best of show.

“It is about truth. People usually pursue values like money, reputation and so on,” Lee explained. “I desire that everyone who sees my piece has a chance to think about the most important things in their lives.”

Schultz’s piece, which won second place, was entitled “Sink.”

“My painting is of an interior space.

It depicts the sink of the third floor painting studio, which is at the downtown Renaissance Hall of NDSU,” Shultz disclosed. “I contrasted bold, expressive brushwork with tighter areas for a dynamic image.”

And last, Bowling’s third place piece was named “Cow Skull.”

“I received inspiration from Mexican artist Alfonso Castillo, who not only tattooed his ceramic skulls, but decorated them with various items like sea creatures, flowers, even insects,” Bowling said. “I decided to add my own dark kind of fantasy influenced style to the piece and went on from there.”

“It’s pretty cool because you don’t have to be an art major to submit your work into this show,” Beauchene responded.

Although the winners were chosen

by Lewellyn, there is still an opportunity for students to vote for whichever piece is their favorite.

This process of choosing the students’ favorite art is called the “People’s Choice Awards.”

In order to vote for your favorite Although the winners of piece of artwork, stop by the MU the art show did not win Gallery.

All that is needed is to fill out a card any tangible prizes, the on which a piece is preferred. acknowledgement was The last day to vote is Feb. 24. greater.

Even though the winners of the art show did not win any tangible prizes, Although the winners this year were the acknowledgement was greater. art majors, it was not a requirement.

“It was very exciting and I am happy Travis Beauchene, a junior majoring with the results even if I didn’t receive in fine arts, created one of the 37 pieces any material prize,” Bowling said. that was accepted, expressed how he felt about the show.

“

HEALTH TALK

Keep a healthy heart TEGAN BUCKLEY & BRENDAN O’GORMAN Contributing Writers

Since 1963, Congress and the president have proclaimed February to be American Heart Month.

The statistics about cardiovascular disease and strokes are alarming. Combined, they are our nation’s number one killer.

According to the official website of the American Heart Association, on average “2,200 Americans die every day from heart disease; an average of one death every 39 seconds. More women die of heart disease than the next four leading causes of death combined- including all forms of cancer."

Even more frightening, one in three Americans is estimated to have one or more types of heart disease.

Tips for a healthier heart

Submitted Photo

During summer 2010, NDSU students in History 379 spent two weeks in Vienna and Central Europe learning about history, art and philosophy. Students this summer have the opportunity to participate in the same adventure.

Students offered an international experience CATE EKEGREN Spectrum Staff

Ever wonder what it would be like to visit Central Europe?

What if you could visit a new place and receive academic credit?

NDSU is offering an all-inclusive program this summer set in Vienna and Central Europe.

The program is available through the office of international programs and the department of history, philosophy and religious studies.

Students will spend two full weeks, July 2-16, exploring the history, music, psychology, literature, visual arts, philosophy and culture of the historic Habsburg Empire with John Cox, NDSU department head and the professor who led eight students on the same class trip during summer 2010.

This year’s itinerary includes a two-week stay in Vienna, Austria with excursions to Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic.

Students will be able to tour museums, palaces, historical monuments and will get to see the play Liliom at the Volkstheater in Vienna, all while still having plenty of time in the evenings to hang out.

Because the trip is such a rich learning experience, participants will register for History 379 and earn three NDSU credits.

The class will meet two times before departing for Europe.

Those interested do not have to worry about learning the German language in this short amount of time; the entire program is in English.

Although this class does not yet count to fulfill general education requirements, students are able to appeal to have the class cover either the global perspective or cultural diversity requirement.

Tanya Kramer, study abroad adviser, recommends applying for financial aid to cover the cost of the program.

The fees are approximately $4,300 in addition to the tuition cost for three credits.

Kramer notes students must be enrolled in six credits over the summer in order to be eli-

The American Heart Association has put out “Life’s Simple Seven,” which are seven tips on how to live a better life and reduce your risk of heart disease.

1. Get active: 30 minutes of daily activity can reduce risk of heart disease, and lead to a longer, healthier life.

2. Control cholesterol: LDL is the bad cholesterol. When there is too much in blood it can clog arteries.

It can come from genetics and the food you eat. HDL is the good cholesterol. High levels of this in blood may protect from a heart attack.

3. Eat better: Choose foods that are nutrient rich, for example vegetables, fruits, unrefined whole grains, and fish. Cut back gible for financial aid; she sug- on partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, trans fat and salt. gests enrolling in a second class.

4. Manage blood pressure: Hypertension is known as the Kramer shares that al- silent killer because it has no symptoms and 21% of people though the price may seem don’t know they have it. steep it is a great opportunity.

“It’s really an all-inclusive 5. Lose weight: 145 million American adults are overweight trip. Students only have to pay or obese. Excessive fat around your waist puts you at a greater out of pocket for some meals risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol (the bad type) and any personal expenses.” and diabetes.

Kramer stressed.

Cassandra Refling, a senior 6. Reduce blood sugar: Adults with diabetes are two to four majoring in university studies times more likely to have heart disease or a stroke than adults and a participant in last year’s without diabetes. program, highly recommends taking part in this once-in-a7. Stop smoking: Smoking is the number one preventable prelifetime opportunity as well. mature death in the United States. Smokers increase the “You absolutely have to at- amount of fatty substances in their arteries, which can lead to tend this program; the history, coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. food and places we visited Be good to your heart and try some heart healthy drinks and were amazing,” Refling said.

If you would like to take part foods.

Studies have been done to show that reseveratrol -- which is in this educational trip, applications are due by March 1 contained in red wine -- can help prevent heart disease by inand are to be completed en- creasing the HDL (good) levels, lowering the LDL (bad) levels and protecting against artery damage when drank in moderatirely online.

The application, all of this tion.

Heart healthy foods to take into consideration include oatinformation and more can be found on the NDSU study meal, salmon, avocado, olive oil, mixed nuts, blueberries, lentils, abroad website at spinach, flaxseed and edamame.

This weekend, as you are watching a basketball game or some www.ndsu.edu/international/ studyabroad, or by contacting exciting documentaries on National Geographic, sit down with either Dr. Cox at some friends, enjoy your guacamole (made with real avocados), john.cox.1@ndsu.edu or mixed nuts, a fresh blueberry pie, a glass of red wine and cheer Tanya Kramer, at on your favorite team!

Enjoy life healthily and happy American Heart Month. tanya.m.kramer@ndsu.edu.

T h e S p e c t r u m | F r i d a y, F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 1

5

Emily Hanson Arts and Entertainment Editor Phone: 231-5261 | Email: ae@ndsuspectrum.com

Arts and Entertainment

Broadway composer Director debuts his first production at to perform in concert JAIME JARMIN Spectrum Staff

Students may have noticed posters around campus advertising the Andrew Lippa Live! concert.

This concert will be occurring on Friday, Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. in Askanase Theatre and will cost adults $15 and students $10. To order tickets in advance, call the fine arts box office at 701-231-7969.

While it is a huge opportunity for NDSU to feature such an honored guest, many students may not be aware of who Andrew Lippa is.

In order to understand how substantial it is for Lippa, an award winning and Tonynominated Broadway composer, to be in Fargo teaching theater students around the area, students have to look at his accomplishments and biography.

“

He does not need to be doing this but he is just so generous to teach and share his passion with students.

-Katherine Noone Lippa’s presence on campus is so monumental is due to his having composed music for "The Addams Family," one of the most admired Broadway productions currently running. Lippa has worked as the music director for the famous Broadway and television actress Kristin Chenoweth since

the late '90s. Students may have seen Chenoweth on the extremely popular Fox television show “Glee” and starring in the Broadway musical “Wicked” as Glinda.

Lippa is in Fargo to work on his new musical. When he personally contacted NDSU Musical Theatre Specialist Katherine Noone in October 2010 to discuss working with area theater students, Lippa stated that he needed to get out of New York City because he needed space and room for creativity with fewer distractions than the busy city life.

Lippa is also serving as an artist-in-residence at NDSU this spring and will be working with students and staff while using originally composed music.

Noone spoke about the impact Lippa has had on the Fargo community by working alongside Tri-College students in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

She mentioned there is no better opportunity than for these students to work with a Broadway musical star and get the exposure of working with someone of such great stature.

“He does not need to be doing this but he is just so generous to teach and share his passion with students around our area,” Noone said.

There are three workshops that Lippa has been focusing on while he has been at NDSU. The workshops included one on Jan. 29, where he taught a Broadway master class, a theatrical workshop where he will be strictly working with college or high school students around the area on March 25; and the All Lippa Songs Masterclass that will feature songs

written primarily by Lippa himself on April 16.

Area students are getting involved in performing his legendary works. Auditions were held Jan. 28 for area college and high school students for the opportunity to sing in the Andrew Lippa Live! in Concert. The students chosen will be performing either solos, duets or ensemble pieces.

The 12 singers that were chosen by Lippa are from NDSU, MSUM and Concordia and will be performing an ensemble piece entitled “It Gets Better.” This piece is significant because it brings national attention to the Trevor Project.

According to thetrevorproject.org, this organization “is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth."

Many NDSU students were chosen to perform solos and duets. The performers include Katie Strom and Victoria Block singing the duet “When the Tables Are Turned," Erin Behrmann and Emily Hanson singing the duet “More is More is More," Ryan Thomas singing a solo entitled “Your True Love,” and Noone singing the solo “One Day." Now that you know more about Andrew Lippa and why his posters are plastered on every wall at NDSU, you will be able to understand the priceless opportunity it would be to attend his concert tonight.

“He is young, hip, and cool, with a pop-rock sound that is sure to please younger generations,” Noone said.

NDSU; “Oklahoma!”

CATE EKEGREN Spectrum Staff

“Oklahoma!” has been performed in many theaters before but viewers can expect something a little different with Hardy Koenig’s version at the NDSU Little Country Theatre.

Hardy Koenig recently made the move to Fargo from North Carolina, where he worked at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. “Oklahoma!” will be Koenig’s directorial debut at NDSU. Koenig hopes his interpretation of this classic musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein will be a hit with all audience members. “I’ve really tried to streamline it down a bit,” Koenig confessed.

“Oklahoma!” takes place in the similarly named territory before it became a state. The plot centers on the conflict between cowboys and ranch hands during this time and involves a love triangle when the leading lady, Laurey, struggles with her feelings for Curly, a shy ranch hand, before Judd, a much darker character, wedges his way between the two.

“Most people just think of ‘Oh what a beautiful morning’ when they think about ‘Oklahoma!’ I wanted to focus on the relationships and the conflict between the characters,” Koenig said. “They dance and sing because they are alive.”

Koenig expressed his excitement working with the cast he has and feels he has some great leading characters.

There are students from Min-

First & Deli JUSTIN HARKEN Contributing Writer

I would like to tell you all about a lovely restaurant that I had the pleasure of dining in this week. I decided to go to First & Deli, a quaint little lunch café in downtown Fargo. First & Deli is located at 520 1st Ave. N., just across the street from the Hotel Donaldson.

Stepping in from the unforgivable climate that is Fargo's, I was met with great sense of warmth. I’m not only speaking of the temperature in the building, but also of the inner warmth I felt. My fiancé and I must have looked like newcomers because the two women behind the counter were quick to make recommendations and point out their daily specials.

I later found out that these two very nice women actually run First & Deli, and that makes the service very personable.

After pondering over the limited menu, which is understandable for a small eatery, I decided to go with the special, which was a cup of soup and a half a sandwich for just under $6. I was somewhat apprehensive because for a grown man, a half sandwich and cup of soup doesn’t seem like it would be very filling.

Just to wager on the safe side I picked the largest sandwich called the “Combo” which is ham, turkey, roast beef, Swiss cheese and lettuce and choice of whole wheat bread. The two soups to choose from, which are made fresh and differ from day to day, were French onion and chicken artichoke. I chose the latter.

After our sandwiches were made and we ladled our soup, we walked into the dining area which is somewhat separated from the ordering counter. I couldn’t help but notice how much it looked liked a larger scale of my grandmother’s kitchen. Almost all of the tables are actual kitchen tables with matching chairs and there are many knick-knacks and artifacts that decorate the place. There are a few traditional café booths along the far wall and some high top tables next to the

windows. The front of the café exhibits large windows that allow ambient light to fill the area. The radio plays at a volume just noticeable if there is a lull in the conversation.

While the interior design was pleasing, it didn’t hold a light to the food. The bread, which is made in-house every morning, was beyond excellent. With every bite into the homemade wheat bread, I felt as if I was biting into a cloud that was filled with flavor instead of precipitation. The fresh cut deli meat and herbed mayonnaise spread created a wonderful combination of tastes.

For me, the hardest part of this dining experience was to determine if the sandwich was better than the soup. I must say that the chicken artichoke soup is a strong contender for the best soup I’ve ever had. It’s hard to explain in words how good this soup is. To say that it was beyond savory would be an extreme understatement and almost boarders on im-

moral. My mouth is salivating just thinking about it. My concern of the meal not filling my appetite was laid to rest as I barley finished.

After a few minutes of resting I decided to get dessert. After all, their sign on the side of the building advertised homemade pastries. How could I pass that up? My fiancé and I split a vanilla cream puff.

This elegant pastry was a nice finish to the meal. It was light and flakey while not being too sweet.

To summarize, First & Deli is a great place to go for a light lunch. Stupendous soup, astounding sandwiches, delectable desserts and an atmosphere that is both warm and welcoming combine to make this place worthwhile. While the price might be a touch on the higher side, I don’t mind paying for quality service and food, especially when it is supporting a local business owner. First & Deli is as close as you can get to the complete package.

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

First and Deli offers delicately prepared, mouth-watering sandwiches and a decadent variety of desserts.

Submitted Photo

NDSU’s Little Country Theater prepares their production of Oklahoma! that begins showing on Wednesday.

nesota State University Moorhead alongside those from NDSU and a variety of majors are represented, not just those in the theater program.

“

There is going to be a lot of dancing and some really great songs.

–Hardy Koenig Koenig was especially excited about working with Fargo choreographer Matt Gaspar. “There is going to be a lot of dancing and some really great songs,” he revealed.

The cast and crew of “Oklahoma!” have been working countless hours since the beginning of spring semester and are keeping busy with last minute rehearsals and fittings.

“I don’t think [the audience] will be disappointed,” Koenig finished with saying.

Opening night is Wednesday, Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. in Askanase Hall. Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for non-NDSU students and $8 for NDSU students. They can be purchased in person at the division of fine arts office, room 115 in the Music Education Building or at the box office the night of the event. Tickets can also be purchased over the phone by calling (701) 231-7969.

F r i d a y, F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 1 | T h e S p e c t r u m

6

Study Break BISON

BITS

Rylan Wolfe Puzzles Editor

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

What play or movie would you like to see NDSU’s Little Country Theatre perform next?

“Les Miserables” Lisa Romano Undecided Freshman

Across 1. Like wild tigers 6. Priory of ___, group in "The Da Vinci Code" 10. Summon electronically, say 14. Individually owned apartment

15. It's parallel to a radius 16. Pizazz 17. Heart surgery 20. Portico adornments 21. Symbols of free speech 22. Sidewalk risk 23. Bolshevik foe 24. Pageant prize

28. Three lines of verse 30. Old washing machine feature 32. "Intergalactic" Boys 35. Colorado native 36. Myspace heart 40. Fleur-de-___ 41. Department stores 42. Japanese beer 45. Greg, with respect to the other Brady boys 49. Woods nymph 50. River through Kazakhstan 52. Density symbol 53. Type of possession 56. Wood alternative 57. "Cross my heart..."

61. Nonchalance 62. Execute perfectly 63. The rite place?

64. Son of Hera 65. Its symbol is an eagle: Abbr.

66. "___ of Pearls" (Savage Garden song)

Down 1. Find not guilty

2. Deep Throat, e.g.

3. Dumber than dumb 4. Interjects 5. Hide-hair link 6. Former Toyota model 7. Cooler, to a hip-hopper 8. Rarely counterfeited bills 9. Catches, as a perp 10. Stomach enzyme 11. ___ mode 12. Rightmost pedal 13. Position on the Enterprise: Abbr.

18. One from Saratoga Springs 19. Tibetan legend 23. Casual tops 25. Chills and fever 26. Nerve network 27. "___ you nuts?"

29. "Numb3rs" network 30. Lush 31. Void a grandfather clause 33. Jerk: Var. 34. Keg necessity 36. When doubled, a Jim Carrey film 37. Glimpse 38. Sledding spot

39. "Totally tubular!"

40. Trip producer 43. Losers to the Yankees in the 1998 Series 44. Poems of praise 46. Printed mistakes 47. Yom Kippur horn 48. Xerox products 50. Tear open 51. Cambodian cash 54. Waiter's handout 55. Wood sorrels 56. Emerald ___ 57. A way to vote 58. Sculler's item 59. Be hooked on 60. Exam for H.S. seniors

Previous puzzle’s solution

CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES: FREE Pregnancy Testing And Confirmation. Call (701) 237-6530 or visit www.firstchoiceclinic.com Exp Date: 5/13/2011

“Talladega Nights” Mark Zachmann Mechanical Engineering Sophomore

“Glass Menagerie”

FOR RENT: Pre-Leasing Specials! Reserve your apartment now for the 2011 school year! 1, 2, & 3-Bedroom Apartments within walking distance to NDSU. Campus bus stop in front of building, assigned parking, laundry facilities, and more! Call Jeremy today at 701.373.5064 or visit www.FargoRents.com/GoBison Exp Date: 3/29/2011 One block from campus. Walk to class and save money on parking passes with off street parking. 1109 College St. Very nice 4 bedroom, 2 kitchen house.

Washer and dryer included. Will go fast at $1265 per month. Call 701.306.8601.

Exp Date: 3/29/2011

HELP WANTED: Leasing Director. Growing property management company in the area seeks a high energy, full-time leasing director. Detail oriented, organized, and effective time mgmt. skills required. Knowledge of MS Office required. Please send resume to: info@fargorents.com.

Exp Date: 2/25/2011 FOR SALE: Two bedroom north Fargo townhouse, double garage, appliances, washer & dryer, fees $55 per month.

Call Roberta at 701.261.1742. Realty Connection, L.L.C. Exp Date: 2/25/2011

SUDOKU Previous puzzle’s solution

OTHER: LOST: Blue Tri-College Lanyard with 3 memory keys attached. Call Tri-College office 231-9731 if found. REWARD for irreplaceable photos and material on keys. Lost in Morrill Hall or Union.

Exp Date: 2/18/2011

Ben Gibson Mechanical Engineering Sophomore

DO YOU HAVE A PROBLEM? The Spectrum

has answers!

“Jurassic Park” Jason Jorgenson Radiological Sciences Junior

Submit your relationship, friendship or personal problems for another perspective.

“The Honest Truth” will take your questions at opinion@ndsuspectrum.com

Getting a flu shot at Student Health Service.

$25 Being too sick to make it to spring break.

???

“Our Town”

What’s it worth to you?

Amber Fetch

Cases of flu on campus are on the rise.

English Senior

Get your flu shot on Thursday, Feb. 24 from 10 am—2 pm in the Wellness Center Classroom.

Compiled by Cate Ekegren Spectrum Staff

Open to all NDSU students, staff and faculty.

Check or cash (exact amount, please) only.

Student charge may be billed to student account.

T h e S p e c t r u m | F r i d a y, F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 1

7

Features

‘Beautiful You’ photo contest HILLARY CLIFTON Contributing Writer

As a part of NDSU’s participation in National Eating Disorder Week -- Feb. 22 through Feb. 26 -- the Wallman Wellness Center is asking students to submit photographs that reflect what part of their body is the most beautiful.

The “Beautiful You” photo contest is a part of the National Eating Disorder Association, a non-profit organization that arranges events and support groups for the individuals and families that are impacted by eating disorders.

They also campaign for prevention, find quality treatment centers and provide with other areas of support for the individual and the family.

Additionally, they help spread the word about National Eating Disorder Week.

All photos that are submitted must be appropriate, tasteful and creative.

This should not include lewd photographs, bare midriffs, or any other type of photograph that is deemed inappropriate for public display.

Pictures can include full body, or parts of the body including, teeth, nose, eyes, smile, etc. Group photos are also acceptable.

All photographs that are submitted will be displayed in the Wellness Center classroom, starting Feb. 22 and ending Feb. 26.

In addition to the photograph, the chosen photo is judged based on the written paragraph describing the beauty feature in the photo.

The content of the paragraph should contain why this photo is beautiful, the unique differences the photo may have from others submitted and an argument about why this feature is beautiful.

Committee members will choose the photo based on the content.

Stacey Holm, health educator at the Wellness Center states that the committee will be choosing photographs that are an honest representation of what is beautiful.

“We are looking for photos that demonstrate that being imperfect can actually be perfect. It is about self respect, loving yourself, and being comfortable in your own skin.”

The winner of the contest will receive a $50 gift certificate for the NDSU bookstore and two massage therapy sessions at the Wellness Center.

All photographs should be submitted to Stacey.holm@ndsu.edu by Thursday Feb. 24.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

Do you like the skinny jeans look?

ALYSIA LARSON Contributing Writer

LIKE -AVg REVIEW LITTLE

“Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood” The next evolution in face-stabbing

STEVEN STROM Staff Writer

The original “Assassin’s Creed” was an incredibly divisive game. Some of those who played it praised it for its mix of “Matrix-esque” sci-fi and Crusades-era aesthetics.

Those with better taste recognized it as an overhyped openworld game with little variety in gameplay.

“Assassin’s Creed 2” fixed most of the first game’s problems, adding more mission types and a more likable protagonist while expanding on the slick, thoughtful gameplay.

The story of the “Assassin’s Creed” universe follows Desmond Miles, the modern descendant of an ancient clan of Assassins devoted to foiling the plots for world domination engineered by the megalomaniacal Templars.

Most of the game is actually told through the eyes of Desmond’s ancestors.

Through the use of a device called the Animus, he is able to relive the memories of his progenitors and attempt to unravel a mystery that may lead to Earth’s destruction.

Unlike “AC2,” which had the player trading historical periods and ancient protago-

nists, “Brotherhood” continues the exploits of Ezio Auditore from the previous game as he travels to Renaissance Rome in search of revenge against the Borgia family and a dangerous artifact.

While it’s great to see a charming character like Ezio return, it’s also a bit saddening. “Brotherhood” presents us with a wiser, older version of the roguish hero from the previous installment and makes little attempt to hide his getting on in years. This vulnerability to time lends him a human quality not always present in video games.

As the title would suggest, the focus of the gameplay is on assassinations. The iconic, face-stabbing hidden blades as well as an array of gadgets provided by the actual Leonardo da Vinci make for a fun variety in methods of simulated murder.

Cool toys are great and all, but sometimes you have to know when to hold your ground in a fight. That’s why it’s so great to see that the developers have streamlined basic combat. Previously, if your assassin were cornered, combat largely consisted of waiting for an enemy to attack, countering and repeating. “Brotherhood” alleviates this tedium by allowing you to chain multiple kills together with the press of a single button after killing a single enemy. It may sound like it would make the game too easy, but it still requires acute timing and accuracy. One slip and you’ll be right back to

waiting for a chance to counter.

Despite the imp ro v e ments, some problems do persist. For instance, unwieldy controls, one my most major complaints with the series, make a return appearance causing the protagonists to jump in random directions and fall of buildings.

Multiplayer in “Brotherhood”, while clearly not the focus of the game, proves to be quite competent. Players are tasked with assassinating specific targets that must blend into a crowd populated by duplicates. The hunter and prey mentality is intense and refreshingly slow-paced but it can be difficult to find players that don’t just run around trying to kill everything that moves a la “Call of Duty” and actually play the game the way it was meant to be played.

Don’t let the lack of a number in the title fool you; “Brotherhood” is a fully realized sequel that is bigger than its predecessors in every way.

It features a better story, more character, more side-quests and a distinctive multiplayer suite. If not for some niggling design issues “Brotherhood” could have proved to have been the perfect example of a sequel done right. As it stands, it is still an incredible game that should be played by even the most modest fan of the series.

At the coffee shop

the high set back pocket, it Welcome to the place where creativity is explored and inspiration is all around; a place helps create a figure that to release that special inhibition and create a long lasting impression. Whether through might otherwise be masked poems, stories or creative writing, this is the spot to get the latest works from the stuwith baggier jeans.

He said: “I personally don’t really Male: According to GQ onlike or dislike the look but line the best body type for skinny jeans should only be skinny jeans is “a man with worn by some people.” great physique.”

-Kyle Meisch, a sophomore Skinny jeans on men look majoring in journalism. the most impressive when the legs look muscular and toned.

She Said: Too muscular though can “I don’t really like the look, create the “tight pants” effect but I think a few certain body and can seem like clothes are types can pull it off.” not fitted.

-Diane Adams, a junior in the pharmacy program.

If you do not have this body type, but like wearing skinny The skinny jean look is defijeans, ask a friend whom you nitely one that has become know will give an honest opinwidespread. ion about your appearance.

It is a comeback look. Some If they are being truthful may not mind it at all, but not and decide the skinny jean everyone is too fond of the look is not for you, don't get style. mad.

Most feel that only a few Instead, ask friends to go body types can actually pull shopping with you to help find the skinny jean off. jeans that are the best type for your body.

Female: Shape magazine But remember that no matonline says that the best “body ter what anyone says if you type for skinny jeans is the feel good and walk with confi‘boy body’ shape.” dence, any piece of clothing or If your curves are practically accessory will aid in beauty, non-existent then skinny jeans but it will not define it. are best for you.

And if you really do not Being on the short side and want to give up the skinny having a less curvy body type jean look, then don't. lets skinny jeans be the perfect Having confidence in what fit for you. you wear is the best fashion The skinny jean style elonadvice. gates figures and along with

dents around you. Take a seat, relax and enjoy the Bison originality.

I CRIED YESTERDAY

Why does it feel that I'm suffering so bad?

It's like I’m dying in here -- I'm so sad

I cried yesterday My thoughts going in every way So many tears I shed Things going through my mind; going through my head

Dealing with things in my past that should had termination Cries of loneliness, confusion, hurt and desperation The memories that lay beside me have left me a stain Inside me I have such agonizing pain

I can't stand living like this Why can't my life just be filled with bliss?

Feeling overcome and oh so alone Negative things I've always been prone

I close myself up from the fear of getting hurt Hurry up! Let me out! I'm giving you alert Can’t someone just tell me it will be okay?

Kiss me and hug me, please make it go away

I'm spinning in circles; don't know what to do Lost I stand and very frightened too Nowhere to turn, no one to talk to -- I'm giving up I wish I could change things -- make my pain stop

Open up your arms and give me shelter Hold me and show me it will get better

I want to run and never come back Can't look beyond because all I see is black I want to forget about then and just deal with now My heart broken into pieces -- I’m feeling so down

As my eyes swell up and my tears pour out My throat opens up and I feel I want to shout Again, I start to cry today Just like I did, when I cried yesterday.

-Linda Vasquez

Here are the weekly NDSU cute flirts!

“

At West Dining Center: Male, Brunette. You have on a blue plaid shirt and a green and yellow baseball hat. You're kind of country and I think that's cute.

“

At 33 bus: Female, Brunette. You were on the 33 bus this morning at 9:45, got on at the union.

Brunette with blonde highlights, brown boots, black tights and black ndsu zip up. You were typing on a glittery blue phone but we made eye contact several times. You are gorgeous, wish I would have chatted with ya

“

At Library: Male, Brunette. you are the cutest guy I have ever seen, you just walked down the stairs in a green north face coat, i've seen you around campus before maybe student activities in the union.. who are you?! ;)

“

At West Dining Center: Female, Black hair. You were wearing a Green Lantern shirt. I commented on it and I think you heard me.

You're very to be seen in today’s society; they are also becoming more attractive.

History of interracial relationships discussed CATE EKEGREN Spectrum Staff

Larry R. Peterson, professor of history at NDSU presented the Brown Bag Seminar Wednesday on the topic of “Love and Law: Interracial Relationships in U.S. History.”

Peterson focused on the antimiscegenation laws that prohibited interracial marriages throughout the history of our nation.

According to his presentation, during the 20th century, only the United States, Nazi Germany and South Africa had such laws.

“This is not a good list for our country to be on” Peter-

son said.

People of all races were given restrictions on whom they could and could not marry. Caucasians were not allowed to marry anyone from an “inferior” group, the Cherokee were not allowed to marry outside their tribe and Jews were not allowed to marry those of the Aryan race, for fear of being harassed, alienated, arrested or worse.

After many were persecuted for publically and legally recognizing their loving relationships, the U.S. Supreme Court decided these laws violated the 14th Amendment and were designed solely to maintain “white supremacy.”

North and South Dakota repealed their anti-miscegenation laws between 1952 and 1967, while fellow Midwest states, Minnesota and Wisconsin, never had such laws against interracial marriages.

When asked if the general opinion of interracial relationships was improving at all Peterson answered respectfully: “I do think attitudes are changing slowly, but it’s going to take a while.” Although the final data will not be available until April 2011, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated the minority population in 2010 was 20.7 percent and that number is expected to jump to 22.3 percent over the next ten

“

widely accepted, especially by younger generations.

Sheila Watson, student activities office administrative secretary, has been married to her husband of a different race for over 24 years now.

While both of their families have been OK with their relationship, Watson noticed the general population’s acceptance varies by location.

“When we lived in Washington, Wisconsin and Italy, it years. wasn’t a problem. When we With at least one in five lived in Georgia and North Americans being non-Cau- Dakota it was more of one,” casian, interracial relation- Watson said. ships are not only more likely

Interracial relationships are not only more likely to be seen in today’s society; they are also becoming more widely accepted, especially by younger generations.

“

At union: Female, Brunette. To the brunette girl that was working the flood volunteer station in the union today.. amazing smile. I got trapped in your gaze when we locked eyes for a moment

F r i d a y, F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 1 | T h e S p e c t r u m

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Rylee Nelson Opinion Editor Phone: 231-6287 | Email: opinion@ndsuspectrum.com

Opinion

Governmental weather

Reducing spending isn’t enough

RYLEE NELSON

DEREK GAFFNEY

Opinion Editor

Staff Writer

I am not one for political parties. In fact I like to think that the current system that of partisan politics is a far cry from the original intention for the United States. The current system is creating a nation that is fighting against itself.

It has become a government that is more focused on the success and domination of a party alliance than the problems at hand. In my opinion, the current direction of this nation is leading to a bleak future.

Allow me to get theoretical.

A new machine is created that could inevitably solve Fargo’s number-one complaint. This machine could control the weather and temperature. It has been years in the making and is promised to bring respite to the flood-ravaged land. It is made in the basement of a few humble scientists and with the most honest of intentions.

Now we can all sense the implications of such a machine.

This is a machine that could theoretically make every day from here on out the most convenient of our lives. This machine is named “The Governor.”

“

So when the people decided to turn back the weather to warm in December it didn’t actually take effect until the following February.

As time goes on “The Governor” is used more and more on a day-to-day basis. Years pass and doctrines are established by the society to manage this obvious heaven send.

As much as people in Fargo want an early spring, conventional wisdom has taught them that with a fast melt comes an inevitable flood.

So for 200 years or so, people respect the original doctrines and they act responsibly.

However, as with everything else, the board of persons in charge of “The Governor” soon accumulates an increasing amount of power. They, in theory, are able to control the “climate” in which the area runs.

Disputes arise over the interpretation of the original doctrine and people argue that times are changing. People divide into clans and leaders of both become rather influential. The customs when this machine was created are obviously different than those in the present.

Say for instance, that there is an extreme drought and people are begging for cooler weather. Back when “The Governor” was established, droughts were not an issue.

However, a few loyalists hold true to previous decisions about the machine and act toward minimizing large changes to the original doctrine.

Inevitably things change and people in power get their way.

In July, they decide to turn the temperature down. They find themselves enjoying a muchneeded cool down.

But soon, the dramatic temperature change throws the pressure systems into a precipitation backspin. The area receives an incredible amount of

Weather on Page 9 >>

On Monday, President Obama released his budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Not surprisingly, the Republicans were not happy about it. Also not surprising, the Democrats loved it.

Ha, just kidding. Most Democrats don’t like it either.

Republicans say that not enough has been cut; Democrats don’t like that social programs like the one that helps poor people pay for their en-

ergy bills are being cut.

I’m not an economics or business major, so I’m not going to pretend to know much about either one of those subjects. However, I do not believe that anyone should be spending more than they earn for a long period of time, especially if they are already in debt. That seems to be reasonable, but unfortunately for the United States government, it’s impossible.

Many politicians and pundits are driving themselves into a tizzy about how we need to tighten our waistband and start cutting programs that are unneeded to balance the budget. We hear that the government will freeze non-defense discretionary spending and make cuts to discretionary spending and that sounds like a decent way to get something done, but it isn’t.

Let’s look at some numbers.

The government will take in about $2.6 trillion for the next fiscal year from taxing you and me and companies. The government will spend around $3.7 trillion. A little over 40 percent (about $2.1 trillion) of that will go to mandatory (or non-discretionary) programs.

These are programs that, by law, must be funded.

Next up, we have the security portion of our budget. We don’t have to spend money on security, but we all know cutting security isn’t the most popular thing in the world.

Well, it isn’t in America -- I can’t really speak for the rest of the world.

Obama does cut security a bit though, down to a total of $884 billion. Those of you keeping track at home now have realized that $2.1 trillion plus $884 billion equals $2.984

trillion. For my science friends out there rounding to significant digits, that’s $3 trillion.

Which, if my math serves me correctly, is $400 billion more than we plan on taking in. Making a bunch of spending cuts in non-security discretionary spending when we’re already over budget with the money we owe our citizens and the money we need to keep killing people overseas while making sure they don’t kill us isn’t going to solve anything.

In fact, since non-security discretionary spending totals $456 billion, that’s one of the most difficult places to continue to cut spending. Does it help? A little, but spending cuts won’t solve the problem.

The problem is our taxes.

The problem is the amount of revenue the government receives doesn’t even come close

to what the government must spend to keep our country functioning. We can argue over a couple billion here or there but in the end we just need more money.

Raise the taxes on the wealthiest and we’ll see our deficit become smaller. Raise the taxes on the wealthiest and watch how they will still have more money than most of us ever will. Raise the taxes on the wealthiest and watch them complain that we’re hurting the economy, and then watch the economy improve.

Again, I’m no economist, but I still think that making more money than you spend is a good idea.

Derek is a second-year professional in the college of pharmacy.

Run from the good guys HILLARY CLIFTON Contributing Writer

In the past couple of years, CNN and Fox News have released a number of stories regarding law enforcement getting “too rough” with civilian interactions. These exchanges vary from arrests, the issuing of speeding tickets or friendly conversations gone badly.

It was just last summer that a Seattle teen was punched in the face by an officer for jay walking, and more recently, an officer took a Houston mother down to the ground while off duty in a Target shopping center.

Often, surveillance tapes are made available to the public, but there is always the possi-

bility that the audience is missing part of the story. We automatically assume it’s one person’s fault when in reality it very well could be the other individual involved.

But with more and more of these tapes being released to the public, it is not looking good for the officers. I would think that a person that we hold to a higher credibility would have the self-control to hold off from the temper tantrums that these surveillance tapes seem to capture.

In the case of the Houston mother, she claimed she was having a pleasant conversation with the officer and then he decided to wrestle her to the ground. Come on now, can we really believe that? However, Target’s surveillance tape captured the entire scene and it

very well looks like they are having a pleasant conversation -- until he attempts to lead her from the store and she steps away. He then attempts to grab her a second time but eventually he’s forced to tackle the woman to the ground.

The Seattle teen, however, appears to get disgruntled right away, and when her friend steps in and pushes the officer, this only heightens the situation. The officer shoves the friend back and eventually punches the teen in the mouth.

All of this was recorded on a cell phone.

In both instances it is safe to assume that something lead up to the reaction of the officer apart from what we, the audience, can see from video surveillance. But does this really give the officer the right to lay

a hand on a civilian in a force- resources adults go to when in ful manner? need of assistance. But when tapes and stories are released, it paints a completely different picture than what we are used to. Who can we trust if our When the general protectors are now the crimipublic thinks of po- nals and bad guys?

Police officers must be lice officers they aware of their surroundings at are seen as being all times. They need to realize our guardians, peo- that when they decide to lose ple that children there temper or get frustrated that they are potentially being generally look up taped. It is important to us to and resources that they keep their good adults go to when name. There is no reason for in need of assisthe general public to be wary of the few people we can trust tance. in a time of distress.

I say no. When the general public thinks of police officers, Hillary is a freshman majorthey are seen as being our ing in advertising. guardians, people that children generally look up to, and

“

Greet spring with a smile SARAH CHAMPA Contributing Writer

If you will be so kind and allow me to get ahead of myself for this article, I would appreciate it. You and I both know that it’s not technically springtime, but it sure as heck feels like it and boy does it feel good. Spring in Fargo is the greatest time of the entire year.

I wouldn’t say this is a shocker to all of you, and this statement may just be an objective truth for NDSU students. Yet, for the slight chance it isn’t an objective truth, here are simple reasons why Fargo’s spring is the best season our

town has to offer.

It’s warm out, or a foreigner could say warmish. The snow is melting into gigantic pools of brown water that take up every single sidewalk and street. No one cares how messy it is. In fact, I saw a girl step into a half-foot deep lake. To my amazement, she threw her head back in a fit of giggles and delight. She didn’t care because it is warmish out there. I see people slip a lot on the hardly frozen ice and their eyes twinkle. They don’t care because it is warmish out there.

I sat in class yesterday and from the open window came a

mild breeze ringing with the harmony of birdies chirping and students laughing. Hoops and hollers echoed about campus as joyous students skipped and threw snowballs at each other. The flats, flip-flops, and flowered dresses are coming out to play with the sunshine and smiles. All is well. The snow is melting.

Think about these words for a while: the crack of the bat, cheering fans, the new and airy Target Field. Yes, Twins baseball is whispering to us. It may be several weeks until it starts, but I can see the glow in every man’s eye as I walk on campus. The after Super Bowl

humdrum is over and their eyes are on the prize as they ponder about last year’s Twins season and the season to come.

I usually don’t discount other opinions when it comes to sports, but if you aren’t a Twins fan in Fargo, why are you even here? There, I said it.

Twins baseball is what North Dakotans live for. Hence, spring is great here.

Finally, here is the last tidbit, an obvious one, which drives home the argument why spring is the best season in Fargo. Our brains are winding down due the glorious weather and Twins baseball.

We can’t think at all, but here

is more good news: we are on the scholastic homestretch!

Summer's coming is such a warm thought.

Yes, I got ahead of myself a lot with the after-winter talk.

Despite the fact that it will get cold again, the flood is looming, and Twins baseball is a mere abstraction right now, I hope you realize why spring is the best season Fargo has to offer its students and residents. Let’s soak up these weeks of wintery spring confusion and be thankful for what is to come.

Sarah is a senior majoring in university studies.

T h e S p e c t r u m | F r i d a y, F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 1

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The honest truth Disturbing the peace Relationship woes? Friendship troubles?

Personal issues? Get another perspective on it!

JAIME JARMIN Spectrum Staff

Dear Honest Truth, My boyfriend leaves for the Navy in 9 weeks. We have been together for just over a year. I really think he might be the one.

My parents don’t agree with our relationship, but I think it’s time to move to the next step before he leaves. Is 20 too early to get engaged?

Young Love

Dear Young Love, It must be difficult knowing that the man you love, and may even spend the rest of your life with, is leaving you for a significant amount of time in just a matter of weeks. I completely sympathize with you because we all know how hard long-distance relationships can be. When it comes to what you should do about your situation, I highly recommend fully thinking through every reason as to why you want to get engaged. Is it because you honestly feel that you love your boyfriend, and feel it is only natural for the two of you to get engaged at this point in your relationship? Or is the fact that leaving for his military service has truly triggered the talk of getting married? Your family is probably concerned that you are making a rash decision simply because your boyfriend is leaving to complete his service in the Navy. If this is not the case, then I would suggest that you explain your reasons for wanting to get engaged and make it clear that it has nothing to do with your boyfriend leaving soon. Most importantly, think about how this decision will affect you. Engagements and marriages are not events to be taken lightly. Make sure that this is really what you want.

You’re only young once.

As I was walking through the Memorial Union the other day, I could not help but notice an awkward man sprawled out on a couch sleeping.

It would not have looked so odd if his arms and legs were not dangling every which way.

Not only was he sleeping and taking up an entire couch, but he was also snoring extremely loudly.

I was distracted even though I was not among the unfortunate bunch trying to study around him. How inconsiderate! The people who were trying to study around this guy were clearly upset.

Whenever I plan to study in the Union, I expect the noise levels to be kept to a minimum. Sure, I am OK with others chatting with their friends or even laughing, but the thing that irritates me is when the noise is unnatural for the time of day.

I have discovered that even when there is a band playing downstairs in the Union on a Wednesday, I would be less distracted while studying than when listening to some unusual guy snore.

It’s not exactly fun when you

“

Not only was he sleeping and taking up an entire couch, but he was also snoring extremely loudly.

over a couch.

Perhaps it would have been a little more thoughtful had they taken up a squishy chair and camped out, but no, they had to collapse onto the only available couch to catch up on their rest.

I am not the only person who finds this mode of recharging one’s self a little weird. “I find it kind of humorous that people take their time to sleep in the Union; it’s called sleeping at night for a reason!�

Morgan Eiler, a freshman majoring in accounting, said.

I could not agree more.

A little word of advice for those who want to take a little nap in between their classes: Wear an inexpensive BreatheRight strip. This way, you are not as likely to snore in public and the rest of us can get back to studying in peace.

Opinion

<< Weather from Page 8 snowfall. Now because â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Governorâ&#x20AC;? has been manipulated and changed so much, it is slow to change. When the people decide to have warmer weather in December, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t actually take effect until the following February.

Now the Red fills up to the brim with an early rain and an incredible amount of melt water. The city is in ruins and everything is covered with water including â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Governor,â&#x20AC;? which is now rendered useless.

Whew good thing this is simply theoretical: right?

are pacing around trying to scope out an available seat in the union, only to see them taken up by people who did not get their seven or eight hours of sleep the night before.

Rylee is a junior majoring in Not only do some â&#x20AC;&#x153;Union communication. sleepersâ&#x20AC;? disturb the peace with their snoring, they also Jaime is a sophomore majorinconsiderately occupy two ing in English. spots to sit when they take

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Dear Young Love, The decision to get married should never be made based on a deadline. Before you show up at the altar, you should have a lengthy list of reasons why youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be there. Since your boyfriend is leaving soon, ask yourself if marriage is your relationshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only option. Perhaps trying long distance for a while might be a better plan. Since youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve only been together for one year, long distance might be a good way to find out how strong your relationship is or can be. You might also want to consider and respect your parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; feelings on the matter, since they probably have a little more experience in the marriage department. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure you know this, but marriage is not something you simply jump into. If you are certain that your boyfriend is the one, then there should be no rush; the two of you will work if you are meant to work. If your long-distance relationship fails, your marriage probably wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have lasted that long anyway.

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F r i d a y, F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 1 | T h e S p e c t r u m

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Dan Gunderson Sports Editor Phone: 231-5262 | Email: sports@ndsuspectrum.com

Sports Start the rally cry

Bison perfect in pink DANIEL GUNDERSON Sports Editor

DANIEL GUNDERSON Sports Editor

I have a weekly show on 96.3 KNDS FM called “Another Dan Sports Show.” I know, self-promotion is sickening, but I need to increase my listening base from my mom to both my mom and dad.

“Why are you wasting your time with a radio show? What you need to do is get a real job.”

All joking aside, this show has allowed me to get on my soapbox once a week for the NDSU women’s basketball team. Particularly, one player grabs most of my allotted speaking time on the subject.

Redshirt junior Abby Plucker has been having an incredible season for the Bison.

The Parker, S.D. native has done everything and more for this team since the beginning of the year. She has played well when it matters the most.

She is the one player that will step up when the rest of the team cannot. To prove my point, I go to the greatest evidence of all: stats.

One thing I have noticed about Plucker is that she was virtually non-existent last year.

She averaged 27.8 minutes per game, which was good enough for second on the team. Shot 32 percent from the floor, 22 percent from three grabbed four and half rebounds per game and scored nearly seven points per game. Granted, she was coming off a shoulder injury that sidelined her for all of the 2008-09 season, but she did play in all 29 games in the 2009-10 season. Needless to say, there was a lack of production.

It got even worse in conference play, where all those numbers went down.

This year has been the greatest turnaround I have ever seen in one player’s production. Plucker averages 35.5 minutes a game, is shooting 47 percent from the field, 43 percent from three, grabbing 10 boards a game and averaging 16.2 points. All of this in 25 games played. It gets even more delicious in conference play.

Averages are 36 minutes, 54 percent shooting, 51 percent from three, still 10 boards a night and 20 points a game. In games that matter most, Plucker is at her best. You also have to mention she is a 79 percent free-throw shooter.

There seems to be no weakness to her game.

Her rankings in conference only stats are as follows. She is third in three pointers made per game and field goal percentage. She is second in scoring behind wunderkind Kevi Luper of Oral Roberts, free throw percentage and offensive rebounds. Finally, she is first in rebounds, three point percentage and defensive rebounds.

While a first team all Summit League spot is being held specifically for Plucker, is it too much to consider her for player of the year?

The Herd is 9-6 in conference and while they play more as a team then a one person show, you will be hard pressed to find one player who has meant more to her squad.

When the Bison come back home on Feb. 26 to take on the hated Jackrabbits, make sure to let SDSU’s head coach Aaron Johnston that he really screwed up on Plucker. It will just add injury to insult as she torches his team on the court.

The Bison women got two home victories this past weekend. The first was a 76-48 domination of Indiana University- Purdue University at Indianapolis. The second was a 65-50 win over Western Illinois.

The first game against IUPUI had the Bison donning pink jerseys for the annual WBCA Pink Zone game. For every three pointer made, head coach Carolyn DeHoff and State Farm agent Jill Henning gave $100. The Bison only need four threes to get past the Jaguars, but tried 16 times to get their head coach to pay out.

The real story of the game was again Abby Plucker. The redshirt junior was her same dominating self with 24 points and 11 boards. Sophomore Janae Burich was working on a triple double but fell three blocks short after her 14 points, 11 boards and a sevenblock performance.

“

Our kids made some collected team decisions and we’ve turned a corner.

-Head Coach Carolyn DeHoff.

The Bison also had sophomore Danielle DeGagne score 14 points and junior Katie Birkel added 13.

As a team, the Bison out rebounded IUPUI 53-32, and only allowed them to go to the line four times the entire game and held them to 33 percent shooting.

The next game against the Fighting Leathernecks proved to be a bit more challenging.

While the Bison wore the pink jerseys again, it was not for any special reason. Coach DeHoff had stated in a pregame interview that her team had asked her if they could wear the pink jerseys on

Valentine’s Day. When NDSU contacted the league about the idea, they said there was no issue. So, the Bison wore the pink jerseys on Monday. Presumably cleaned, but they might not have broken a sweat against IUPUI so you never know.

The first half was an ugly shooting performance, with both teams combining for more air balls than made shots at one point. The Bison played much better in the second half after going into the locker room with just a one point lead, 29-28.

The Herd held the Leathernecks to 27 percent shooting, 13 percent from three and caused nine second half turnovers.

Birkel was the story in this game, scoring 17 points, including eight points in the first six minutes of the second half.

“I haven’t been feeling it recently,” Birkel said, “It felt nice to make some shots this game.” She was more complimentary of the defense, however.

“Our communication on defense got a lot better,” Birkel said. “We started to talk a lot more and that gives us energy which translates into points.”

Coach DeHoff has a seen a change in this team over the last three weeks. “About three weeks ago we hit a crossroads and we needed to make some decisions,” DeHoff said. “Our kids made some collected team decisions and we’ve turned a corner.”

DeGagne was close to her first collegiate double double with 10 boards and eight points off the bench. Plucker added 14 points for the team, while Burich went for 12 and six blocks.

The two wins push the Bison’s overall record to 1312, 9-6 in the Summit League.

Next weekend, the Bison finish off their road schedule with games against Indiana Purdue-Fort Wayne and Oakland University.

Also of note, Birkel is currently four points away from scoring 1,000-points in her caMicah Zimmerman/The Spectrum reer. She currently sits at 28th Senior Whitney Trecker watches the offense move against Western Illinois Monday, on the all-time scoring list.

Feb. 14 at the Bison Sports Arena. The Bison won the game 65-50.

Twins face unanswered questions CAVIN BERUBE Staff Writer

When the Twins reported to spring training last February, there were a lot new faces on the squad and expectations were high. Orlando Hudson and J.J. Hardy were big acquisitions that were going to make a difference.

Well, the end result was still the same. A loss in the Divisional Series to the hated Yankees was the end of that squad.

Now the Twins report with a more Twins-like offseason.

The Twins let a lot of players walk like Hudson, Jesse Crain, Matt Guerrier and Brian Fuentes along with trading away Hardy.

With all of the departures, the Twins did make a couple of moves. They re-signed Carl Pavano, the rock that held down the rotation last season.

They also made a deal for Japanese star Tsuyoshi Nishioka.

With all this offseason commotion, and pitchers and catchers reporting yesterday, I’ve thought of a few key questions that the Twins will have to answer if they can repeat as division champions.

the organization as a whole.

This year he’s going to have a chance to be an everyday player at either second base or shortstop. His success will be a key factor if the Twins can stay competitive.

2. Will Justin Morneau come back and be effective?

Before he sustained a concussion last season, Morneau was arguably the front-runner for the MVP award. Even though the Twins did well without him, they need him to be a dominant hitter and a superb defender at first. If he is able to come back anywhere near last season’s form, it will be huge for the Twins.

1. Will Alexi Casilla emerge 3. Will Francisco Liriano fias a solid starter?

We all know Casilla has had nally emerge as a true ace?

Liriano has been solid, but his moments in the past, but he’s never lived up to the ex- he’s never evolved into the pectations of the manager and true ace the Twins hoped.

After signing a one-year deal this season, amid some trade speculations, he needs to have a dominant year. Pavano is a good number two starter, but Liriano needs to be the true ace to make some noise in October.

4. Who will step up in the bullpen?

The Twins lost nearly half their bullpen with Crain, Guerrier, Fuentes and Jon Rauch to free agency. This has happened in the past where the Twins have been able to plug the holes with younger players. Who is going to be the man to step up in the bullpen?

Is it going to be the erratic Jose Mijares? Or will it be one of the younger guys like Anthony Slama, Alex Burnett or Jeff Manship? Or will Pat Neshek finally rebound from surgery?

5. Will Nishioka be as good as advertised?

The middle infielder made a name for himself overseas, becoming the first player since Ichiro to have 200 hits in their shortened season. He batted .346 with 59 RBI’s in a dominating year. This is the Twins’ first big splash they’ve made for international players, and his success on defense and in the two spot is critical to the Twins’ success.

These questions will be answered in the very near future, and each will have a significant impact on the Twins’ success in the regular season and hopefully the postseason.

T h e S p e c t r u m | F r i d a y, F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 1

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Sports

Meet-a-Bison: Michael Tveidt Bison women hit the road one last time TRAVIS JONES

Contributing Writer

Growing up, children can have many dreams and aspirations about life. These dreams can range from many different things like being a doctor or a basketball player.

Imagine scoring over 1,000 points in your career and being the leading scorer of your Division I men’s basketball team. Imagine getting to play in the NCAA tournament against the defending national champions.

Michael Tveidt has not only imagined all this, but has also lived it.

“

I’d have to say that Summit League Championship game. That was pretty surreal.

-Michael Tveidt However, there is more to Tveidt than just basketball.

Tveidt, a Pierre, S.D., native chose NDSU for a couple of reasons.

“I was very familiar with it,” Tveidt said. “My brother was up here going to school, and so was my cousin actually.”

Basketball-wise Tveidt really thought NDSU was a good fit.

“I really liked the teammates and the coaches so it was a pretty easy decision.”

Adjusting to the amount of people on campus was no problem for Tveidt. “Pierre is

about 14,000 or a little over and campus here was about that same number,” Tveidt stated. “It is kind of a smalltown feel over here but you still have all the restaurants and the big city.”

Tveidt has future plans in mind similar to those of a couple other familiar Bison.

“Hopefully I can continue playing basketball overseas somewhere if that’s possible, that’s what I’d like to do,” Tveidt said. Mike Nelson, Brett Winkelman and Ben Woodside, former teammates of Tveidt’s, are all playing overseas. “Those guys like it a lot,” Tveidt stated “Hearing from their experiences and how much they enjoy it I kind of want to try it.”

Out of basketball, Tveidt likes to kick back and relax.

“Watch a lot of movies,” Tveidt said. “We got a patio now on our apartment that we just grill with a lot of the teammates and just hang out.”

Tveidt’s favorite basketball moment at NDSU is that of a handful of players and fans.

“Well two years ago, I’d have to say that Summit League Championship game. That was pretty surreal the way it was setup how we really had almost lost the game and then came all the way back and basically a last second shot to win it, you couldn’t have drawn it up any more perfect,” Tveidt said. “Going to the NCAA tournament too, that was obviously pretty sweet.” Hopefully Tveidt can be a part of Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum one more run and write another perfect chapter in his Senior Michael Tveidt shoots a free throw as the crowd highly successful career. watches at the Bison Sports Arena.

DANIEL GUNDERSON Sports Editor

The Bison women will play Indiana Purdue- Fort Wayne and Oakland University this weekend. The Herd will be looking to continue their hot play of late, as they have won five out of their last six. While the eight-team field has been set for the Summit League tournament, seeding is still up for grabs. With top team Oral Roberts losing sophomore Jaci Bigham to a knee injury last weekend, second and third place teams IPFW and OU are eyeing the top spot. It will be up to NDSU to keep them out of that position, while doing some relocation of their own.

The Bison start out the weekend in Fort Wayne, Ind. against the second place Mastodons. The Bison, who are 2.5 games back of IPFW, lost earlier in the year to the ‘Dons 68-55. In that game, IPFW’s Stephanie Rosado had 24 points to lead all scorers. Sydney Weinert's game high 13 boards and only seven team turnovers were also big helps.

For the Bison, Abby Plucker had a team-high 23 points. However, no other member of the team scored in double figures and the Bison could not close the gap.

Shutting down Rosado will goal number one for NDSU for this game. They rely on a newfound defensive intensity that has lead to the Herd’s recent success. In their last five wins, the Bison are holding opponents to 56 points per game. This should be huge against IPFW, as they are the second best scoring team in the league. The defensive trend has already taken over the Bison’s next opponent, the Golden Grizzles.

OU, who beat the Bison 60-48 on Jan. 22, is the best defensive team in the Summit League, only giving up 58.2 points per game. The Bison, who average ten more than that a game, will have to make shots when given the opportunity.

OU is lead by Bethany Watterworth, who averages 18 points and nearly four assists per game. Brittany Carnago has been a force in the middle, averaging three blocks per game.

NDSU’s Janae Burich has been just as dominant in that category over the last two games, averaging six and half blocks per game.

While the Bison sit a game and a half out of third behind OU, all three of these teams know the biggest threat may lie in fifth place.

South Dakota State, who is 9-6 in conference play, has the experience and home court advantage come March. What team is currently slotted to play the Jacks in the first round of the tournament? The North Dakota State University Bison.

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Members of NDSU’s Women Collegiate Lacrosse Club sell homemade baked goods in the Memorial Union to raise funds to travel to other schools and compete in tournaments. They will be selling cookies, brownies, and other items until this afternoon. This weekend, the women will travel to St. Cloud State University to compete in the university’s annual Whiteout tournament.

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Head coach Carolyn DeHoff looks on at the action on the court at the Bison Sports Arena. The Bison are on the road this weekend for their final road trip of the year.

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