March 11,2011

Still searching for Fargo’s best coffee Bison basketball: A year in review Page 5

F R I D AY

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The Spectrum

MARCH 11, 2011

NEWS BRIEFS

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Tri-College University cuts back

Development scheduled to close

Bismarck, N.D. (AP) -- A setback today for backers of the Fighting Sioux nickname and logo. A North Dakota Senate committee has voted 5-2 to recommend that the full Senate reject a bill to force the University of North Dakota to keep the name.

Support for the bill is much weaker in the Senate than in the House.

CHELSEY THRONSON Co-News Editor

Chelsey Thronson/The Spectrum

Students will no longer have the option to take multiple courses with the Tri-College University program, due to new restrictions.

NICOLE ROBERSON News Reporter

Some NDSU students may have to re-plan their inNATIONAL tended fall curricula. TriCAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) -- Space shuttle Discov- College University (TCU) has recently announced that, ery zoomed back to Earth for effective as of fall semester the last time Wednesday to 2011, students will be limited wrap up a long flying career. to one class per semester at The world's most-traveled spaceship was due to return to each university outside of Earth - for the last time ever - their own. three minutes before noon.

Previously, TCU had no The crew of six fired the brak- such limit. Now, as stated on ing rockets in late morning, the TCU Web site, www.triputting Discovery on track for college.org, this change has a Florida touchdown. It was been made to “help to align Discovery's final fiery ride the three partner institutions through the atmosphere. equitably in courses exNASA's oldest shuttle has flown 39 missions over nearly changed.” There are, of 27 years. It's being retired course, exceptions to this after this voyage. change.

Students who have a TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Taxpayers' Social Security numbers, confidential child abuse reports and personnel reviews of New Jersey workers nearly went to the highest bidder after the state sent surplus computers out for auction.

Nearly 80 percent of surplus computers in a comptroller's office sample had not been scrubbed of data before being shipped to a warehouse, according to an audit released Wednesday.

minor not offered at their home university are one of such exceptions. If a student has his or her minor declared and on file at the home university, the host institution can verify that the requested classes are required for the minor and the student may be able to take multiple classes.

Another exception is for those students who have requested enrollment at NDSU in the Aerospace Studies/Air Force ROTC or Military Science/Army ROTC courses. Additionally, those enrolled in courses that have a corresponding lab will be allowed to take both the lecture and the lab.

Furthermore, students who are enrolled in a vaccinology seminar course are

allowed to enroll in an additional course; those in the Tri-College University Educational Leadership program are also an exception.

Concordia, who does not participate in the exchange program during the summer, will only allow its students to take a TCU course if the course is not offered at Concordia.

NDSU and MSUM allow their students to take courses even if their home institution does offer it, due to classes not always fitting into a student’s schedule or perhaps being at maximum capacity.

Although it is now limited, taking courses via TCU still has its advantages. Through TCU, one is able to take a class at one of the two universities other than his or

her own without going through a separate admissions process. Another perk of this is that doing so does not cost extra. Established in the late ‘60s, TCU has since allowed enrolled students free parking (with a parking pass from their home university), free library use, and access to several organizations and events at the other universities.

For more information about TCU, students can visit the previously mentioned Web site, as well as the cooperative agreement on www.tricollege.org/course_exchange/course_exchange_an d_cooperative_agreement.

The flood fight begins

WASHINGTON (AP) -- National Public Radio President and CEO Vivian Schiller is not saying whether she offered to quit or was forced out by the organization's board of directions. Schiller told The Associated Press on Wednesday that she resigned after a discussion with the board. She stepped down a day after a conservative activist posted a video showing an NPR executive calling tea party Republicans xenophobic and racist.

WORLD RAS LANOUF, Libya (AP) -Forces loyal to Moammar Gadhafi struck an oil pipeline and oil storage facility Wednesday as they pounded rebels with artillery and gunfire in at least two major cities, killing four people, official’s said.

WEATHER H 36º H 18º H 20º H 34º L 11º L 2º L 16º L 16º FRI SAT SUN MON

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Students join the flood efforts at Sandbag Central, as the Fargo-Moorhead community awaits predicted flooding.

The Spectrum’s Unofficial Report:

Candidates for student body president and vice president Brendan O’Gorman Aria Ahadzada

Cameron Knutson Keenan Hauff

Leah Nygaard Lucas Brodeur

Student government will confirm the official candidates on March 21.

News

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Features

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Study Break

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Opinion

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Sports

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INDEX

CAIRO (AP) -- Clashes that broke out when a Muslim mob attacked thousands of Christians protesting against the burning of a Cairo church killed at least 13 people and wounded about 140, security and hospital officials said Wednesday. The Muslims torched the church amid an escalation of tensions between the two religious groups over a love affair between a Muslim and a Christian that set off a violent feud between the couple's families.

Center for Child

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) -The North Dakota Senate is reviewing new restrictions in the release of 911 calls. The bill would allow people to listen to recordings or see a transcript but they couldn't have copies. News organizations could only get copies with permission from authorities.

Right now, the calls are a matter of public record.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) -North Dakota has a new wind farm. Basin Electric Power Cooperative's Crow Lake wind farm has 108 turbines and the capacity to produce 162 megawatts of power. It's the largest facility of its kind in the country owned solely by a co-op.

VOL. 114 ISSUE 42

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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

NDSU’s Center for Child Development is scheduled to close on June 30.

In addition to the program closing, the childcare services offered in Evelyn Morrow Lebedeff Hall and Katherine Kilbourne Burgum Family Life Center will end on June 17.

The program and childcare facility are no longer seen as consistent with the university’s views and future plans.

Changes were made previously to try and avoid a major cutback like this.

According to NDSU media relations, the program previously eliminated early childhood education classes.

It states that, “all areas of the university are being reviewed to ensure activities are central to the university’s academic mission.”

Virginia Clark Johnson, dean of the College of Human Development and Education stated in an official NDSU statement that, “This is an unfortunate reality, but all expenses not core and central to the university’s academic mission have to be examined and scrutinized for appropriateness. We have no choice but to make these cuts.”

“

This is an unfortunate reality, but all expenses not core and central to the university’s academic mission have to be examined and scrutinized for appropriateness –Virginia Clark Johnson Eight staff members and the parents of 38 children were notified this week.

They will need to make other arrangements for childcare.

The childcare facility is part of the Center for Child Development and features childcare and functions as a research facility.

According to the Center for Child Development’s website, the center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Children allowed are six weeks to five years old, and the center is equipped to accommodate children with special needs.

Enrollment was based on a first come, first serve basis and children of staff, siblings of children already enrolled and children of NDSU employees were all given priority.

“The center offered a wonderful service to the faculty and staff of the university,” Clark-Johnson said in an NDSU statement 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

Students prepare for spring break Distributed health kits promote safe practices for students while on vacation LAURA MUZ Co-News Editor

With classes not in session next week, many students will use their spring break to get away from the Red River Valley for a few days.

This week, NDSU’s Wellness Education Leaders, Wellness Education, Sexual Assault Prevention Programs and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Prevention Programs put together spring break safety kits to help students prepare for the break and learn more about how to stay safe while having fun at their destinations.

The groups handed out the kits to students in the Memorial Union, which contained information on sun safety, tips for sexual assault prevention, information about safe sex, as well as tips and information about blood alcohol concentration and drinking.

Items in the kits included a water bottle, sun aloe, snacks, and materials for safe sexual practices.

“As students plan for Spring Break, their personal safety is something that is very important to keep in mind,” Erika Beseler Thompson, assistant director of alcohol and other drug abuse prevention said.

“There are many things to consider when making plans, packing, and heading out on vacation. These include how to stay safe in the sun, use of alcohol and other drugs, and monitoring your surroundings for personal safety.”

Beseler Thompson and Stacey Holm, a health educator for student health services, emphasized that that while on break it is important to keep a few general things in mind, ranging from having enough finances, to taking various necessary safety precautions.

“If you are going to drink, keep

track of your drink at all times, pour your own drinks so you know how much you are actually drinking, alternate alcoholic with non-alcoholic drinks and remember to plan to have a safe ride back to where you are staying,” Beseler Thompson said. “Be sure to select a designated driver who has not been drinking at all.”

Beseler Thompson and Holm also mentioned that it is important to know how many drinks are too many before beginning to drink, and to keep safe sexual practices in mind.

“Don’t bring back unwanted souvenirs, aka STD’s,” Beseler Thompson said. “If you choose to have sex, be sure to use a latex condom.”

The two also emphasized the importance of staying in groups if traveling and checking in with one another often.

“Students should trust their in-

stincts,” Beseler Thompson said.

“Don’t brush off behavior that makes you uncomfortable [and] report suspicious behavior to local authorities or hotel personnel. Don’t automatically trust those around you, even fellow ‘spring breakers.’”

According to an article published in USA Today on Mar. 9, Orlando, FL is considered this year’s ‘most dangerous’ spring break location according to violent crimes data, FBI crime statistics, car crashes and murder rates.

Meghan Estenson, a junior studying political science, will be traveling to Panama City, FL next week, which ranks as the eighth most dangerous location.

“I’m just excited to relax with friends,” Estenson said. “I wasn’t aware Panama Beach was considered ‘dangerous’, but I’ll be with people I trust, and I guess I’ll just have to take precautions to make

sure I come back safe.”

Estenson said she was aware of the kits being given out this week and said they made her think more about her trip and how to prepare for it while still having fun on vacation.

For more information about alcohol safety visit www.ndsu.edu/alcohol.

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Laura Muz Co-News Editor Phone: 231-5260 | Email: co.news1@ndsuspectrum.com

News

Student leaders demand answers BRIANNA EHLEY Spectrum Staff

Student leaders are demanding answers from the North Dakota House of Representatives, regarding House Bill 1003.

On Tuesday, Student Body President Kevin Black, along with student government’s Executive Commissioner of Government Relations and Intercollegiate Affairs Robert Vallie and Executive Commissioner of Public Relations Ken Story, voiced their disapproval of the budget cuts proposed in H.B. 1003 during a press conference in the Memorial Union.

The bill proposes a budget cut of $32 million to higher education. Included in H.B. 1003 is the removal of $10 million of equity funding, $4.7 million of which was designated to NDSU. The bill also includes the removal of $6.6 million that would have limited NDSU tuition increases to 2.5 percent.

“Removing $4.7 million in equity funding and $1.8 million in tuition assistance will affect the students. It will affect the faculty to student ratio, it will affect the quality of our learning environment and it will affect the quality of our education,” Black said.

Rep. Bob Skarpohl, RTioga, chairman of the subcommittee on higher education, recommended the budget cuts.

Skarpohl was quoted in The Grand Forks Herald saying the higher education institu-

tions in North Dakota should “demonstrate a willingness to change.”

Black addressed Skarpohl’s comment, asking for a clear understanding of what the state legislature would like the universities to be doing differently.

“Members of the House of Representatives are on record calling for a change in the university system,” Black said.

“Our question is; what is that change that you’re looking for?

Although NDSU has received additional funding from the state in the past, the university has brought in more funding, independently, proving to be an investment to North Dakota.

According to Black, NDSU has received $147 million in additional support over the past 11 years. However, NDSU has also secured $988 million in additional resources from grants, research and donations.

“So, for every $1 the state has contributed, NDSU has secured $6.70. That’s a pretty good investment in my opinion,” Black said.

Black asked the representatives to help the university move forward, by investing in the institutions rather than taking away financial assistance.

“If the goal is to reform higher education, then we ask that you provide benchmarks, that you mandate transparency, and that you reward performance.”

The student representatives are especially disappointed

Karl Brummer/The Spectrum

Student Body President Kevin Black and Executive Commissioner of Government Relations and Intercollegiate Affairs Robert Vallie respond to House Bill 1003 at a press conference in the Memorial Union on Tuesday.

with H.B. 1003’s removal of $5 million of the governor’s budget that was designated to performance based funding.

Since the university has been making great strides on the national level, most notably in research, NDSU was a likely candidate for this funding.

According to a press release

found on NDSU’s media relations website, the university recently joined the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education’s elite category of “Research Universities/Very High Research Activity.”

“Annually, NDSU has over $114 million in research expenditures,” Black said. “This creates new knowledge, it cre-

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“At a time when we are making these enormous strides why pull back the reigns?” Black said. “If the goal is to call for change, then we please ask that you define that change, but please do not punish students in the process.”

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

Features Spring break on A portrait of inspiration a budget

LINDA VASQUEZ Features Editor

Fortunately for us college students, spring break is next week.

Although some of us (like myself specifically) have been busy these past couple of weeks with assignments, tests and work, there is still time to plan a quick trip.

Last-minute flight deals are the best way to save money and enjoy an inexpensive vacation.

I took the time to look around online and found some of the hot spots to visit during break and still have some extra cash to spare.

Los Angeles, Calif.

Price: $186 Things to do: Take a ride through Pacific Coast Highway and explore all the beaches located on the coast.

Then stop at Santa Monica Beach to enjoy the pier, which contains rollercoaster’s and a trail of unique shops.

Drive over to Hollywood and visit the world-famous Walk of Fame, along with the wellknown Chinese Theater.

Once the night approaches, just a couple blocks away, drive around downtown Los Angeles and check out the club, music and art scenes.

New York City, N.Y. Price: $198 Things to do: Visit Broadway and take the time to see a Broadway musical, such as “The Addams Family” or “Chicago.”

Preview The Museum of Modern Art or pay respects at the 9/11 Memorial Site.

Don’t forget to go over to the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and the Empire State Building to take some photos and definitely stop at Times Square.

The 10-block area is filled with a myriad of stores and dozens of street vendors.

Orlando, Fla. Price: $228 Things to do: Visit some of the nation’s largest amusement parks- Disneyworld, Universal Studios Orlando, Sea World and Busch Gardens.

Capture the unforgettable story and walk through history at Titanic- The Experience or make your way to the Orlando Improv Comedy Club and visit one of the top bars in the country, ICEBAR Orlando.

Experience the beaches of Orlando or if you are up for a three-hour drive, escape to tropical Miami.

These major cities are filled with plenty of things to keep you busy during spring break.

So, if Fargo is not enough vacation for you, travel somewhere else; travel somewhere new and most importantly, be safe and have a great time.

Submitted Photo

Kayla Houchin has devoted much of her collegiate life to helping those in need.

JOSIE TAFELMEYER Contributing Writer

In the face of poverty, hunger and hardship, can you make a difference?

A student right here at NDSU made a difference in the lives of a needy family in Guatemala, and she continues to be passionate about helping those who are less fortunate.

In May 2009, Kayla Houchin, a junior majoring in

physical, health, and social science education, traveled to Guatemala as part of a service team through an organization called the God’s Child Project (GCP).

According to Godschild.org, “GCP was founded in 1991 by Patrick Atkinson,” who is a native of Bismarck ND. With the help of thousands of supporters, GCP succeeds in providing over 8000 impoverished mothers and 5000 children with homes and an

education.

Volunteers serve communities in Guatemala, El Salvador and Malawi.

Together with a team of five other volunteers, Houchin worked to build a one-room house with a cement floor for a family in Antigua, Guatemala.

“To us, a single-room house doesn’t seem that helpful,” Houchin said. “But for them, just having a roof over their heads and a real floor makes a

huge difference.”

Besides providing families with shelter, GCP’s main focus is to offer kids an education they are otherwise not able to receive.

Once the site of an unpleasant landfill, the Dreamer Center in Guatemala has now been transformed into a beautiful school building.

“Education is really the one thing that can lift those wonderful children up from poverty and despair for good.

The great thing about God’s Child Project is that it doesn’t just make initial changes, it makes a lasting impact,” Houchin said.

Serving others had a powerful impact on Houchin as well.

“The trip taught me what it really means to give and serve others,” Houchin shared.

She no longer takes her life for granted, and the memory of the smiling faces of the children she helped motivates her to work toward her goals.

“Those children have endured and suffered so much.

Surely you and I can smile every day if they can,” Houchin said.

Houchin’s service experience has inspired her to continue helping others by raising money for GCP. In May 2010, she ran a marathon to raise the $2000 needed to build a house in Guatemala.

For her current fundraising project, Houchin is sacrificing her locks -- a luscious and lengthy 21 inches.

She plans on cutting off an inch of hair for every $100 donation she receives in the hopes of surpassing her goal of $1000.

Despite seven years of having notably long hair, Houchin decided that if cutting it will help a suffering family, her hair could serve no greater purpose.

She also plans on returning to Guatemala in May 2012.

Students can get involved with GCP in a variety of ways, the easiest of which is to visit the organization’s website at www.godschild.org.

The website has a lot of great information about GCP and the life changing services it provides.

“You can get involved in so many ways: making a donation, sponsoring a child, volunteering, going to a country with a Service Team, and most importantly just by being aware and spreading the word,” Houchin said.

NDSU also has a campus organization called the ITEMP Advocacy Organization that deals with GCP and ITEMP (Institute for Trafficked, Exploited & Missing Persons).

A portrait of inspiration, Houchin encourages her fellow students to be motivated by their passions to make a difference in the world and stand up for what they believe.

“We are put on this earth for a reason,” she stated. “I think the biggest reason is to give what we can to others and make a difference in their lives. Be passionate.”

Students can learn more about Houchin’s experience in Guatemala or the GCP by visiting http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC554173 or emailing her at kayla.houchin.1@my.ndsu.ed u

Bison life: I’m a part of Greek life JAIME JARMIN Staff Writer

When most students who do not know much about Greek Life think about it, they assume Greek life is just like the movie “Animal House” with comedian John Belushi.

But Sigma Chi president Shawn Senescall, a sophomore majoring in architecture, wholeheartedly disagrees.

“The biggest misconception about being in Greek Life is that all we do is party. But really, it’s all about philanthropy, scholarship, getting involved around our campus and helping out the community,” Senescall said.

Senescall’s fraternity is one of the smallest fraternities on campus, yet it is still one of the more influential.

Sigma Chi was the third highest fraternity for dollars donated to multiple philanthropic events and also for hours of service around the campus and the community.

In addition, this fraternity has won the Fill the Dome competition for the last two years. It is heavily involved in sandbagging efforts and is preparing for Derby Days, which is a week-long effort to help raise money for the Huntsman Cancer Institute to help fund cancer research.

An average day for the president of a fraternity requires a lot of time and hard work.

“There’s a lot of paperwork,

forms, one-on-one work with the chapter advisor and working on ways to better our fraternity,” Senescall mentioned.

Although Senescall is now a very active member in his fraternity, he never pictured himself being involved in Greek Life at NDSU.

“

The biggest misconception about being in Greek Life is that all we do is party.

But really, it’s all about philanthropy, scholarship, getting involved around campus and helping out the community.

-Shawn Senescall “My friend’s sister actually convinced me to join a fraternity when I was a freshman but I had the same misconception that the only thing fraternities do is party,” Senescall shared.

Joining a fraternity was one of the best decisions that Senescall has made since coming to NDSU. He has currently been involved with Greek Life for a year and a half.

“One of the biggest benefits about being part of Greek Life

is the leadership training it has to offer,” Senescall stated.

Being part of Greek Life at NDSU not only helps to get involved while in college, but also will benefit you once you are done with school.

“Greek Life creates good networking because you’ll be able to find a job easier based on the connections you have through the fraternity or sorority you may be involved in,” Senescall said. “Being the president of my fraternity will help me have a great foot in the door when I’ll be looking for jobs in the future.”

Although the benefits of being part of Greek Life will be useful in the future, the best thing about being in a fraternity for Senescall is the friendships he has made.

“The brotherhood opens up the door for meeting some really great people. Some of my best friends are part of my fraternity,” Senescall said.

Senescall mentioned that those interested in becoming involved in Greek Life should check out all of the fraternities or sororities NDSU has to offer.

“If you’re looking, don’t just go to one house because it all depends on what you want.

My suggestion for those interested would be going to every house,” Senescall said.

Even though recruitment week is over, for information Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum on Greek Life visit www.nd- Sophomore Shawn Senescall, president of Sigma Chi sugreek.com Fraternity, aims to dispel myths about Greek Life.

Photo essay contest to take place during international week SAMANTHA WICKRAMASINGHE Contributing Writer

Members of the NDSU community who travel during spring break have a great opportunity to share their memorable experiences by submitting photographs to the International Week Photo Essay Contest.

The International Week Photo Essay Contest will be

held March 28 through April 1.

This contest will take place along with international week, where the cultural diversity of NDSU is showcased through a variety of colorful events.

According to the NDSU office of international programs website, photograph submissions will be accepted until March 24.

Alicia Kauffman, associate director of the office of international programs, encour-

ages students to submit their photographs.

“We encourage participants to take this opportunity to show how they view the world through their photographs,” Kauffman said.

Along with the photograph, students will get the opportunity to describe their story behind the photograph by submitting a short essay.

Submissions will be displayed in the lower level of the Memorial Union during inter-

national week, which will allow students the chance to exhibit their talents in front of the NDSU community. There will be first, second and third place winners, and prizes will be awarded also for the viewers' choice.

Contest winners will also be announced in The Spectrum.

“Apart from winning prizes, participants usually submit photographs because they enjoy doing so,” Kauffman shared.

The contest is open to everyone, including community members, staff, faculty and students.

The photographs must portray an artistic cultural theme to be submitted.

Images captured anywhere in the world, including the United States, such as landscapes, historical monuments and people can also be submitted.

Since international week promotes cultural diversity,

contributors from different cultural backgrounds are encouraged to submit.

The International Week Photo Essay Contest is a great opportunity to showcase talent and share the diversity that exists around the world.

For further information, interested participants can contact the office of international programs located in the Memorial Union, or visit http://www.ndsu.edu/international/

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

Search for Fargo's best coffee continues my walk to class. I was told when I came to NDSU that Contributing Writer most area coffee houses had great mixed coffee drinks but With the mid-semester sub-par house blends, but this crunch happening and a lack was not the case. of time away from campus, my coffee travels were hampered this week. Readers, do not dismay! I managed to find time to continue my coffee search, and this time it just so I was told when I happens to be very close to came to NDSU that home.

Jitters Coffee Bar located at most area coffee 1414 12th Ave. North, in Fargo houses had great is located right next to the mixed coffee drinks NDSU campus. Just across the street from Askanese Hall, Jit- but poor house ters is not only conveniently blends, but this was located for students, but also not the case. provides a very relaxed and college geared atmosphere.

The drink was warm but not When you walk into Jitters burning and it had a bold but you are instantly immersed well-balanced flavor. It into the environment of coffee, seemed like it may have been urban style and campus feel. sitting for a little while, but There are computers for use that did not take away from by patrons, as well as many the taste. The overall expericomfortable chairs and tables ence was one that made me refor you to meet with friends to think my own views of house talk and do homework, or just blends, and caused me to to curl up in with your favorite order another on my next visit book. later that day.

I was in a little bit of a rush I must admit I wish I had the between classes and opted for time to sit and enjoy the envia quick, but tasty pick me up. ronment within the shop. With I ordered the house dessert the comfy chairs, televisions blend, “Jamaican-me-crazy” turned onto news and sports, and hurried to class. Now, I and the quiet mood enhancing normally do not drink house music, it is hard not to see how blends but in this case I had to relaxing Jitters is. Topping it make an exception. all off, they had great snacks I was pleasantly surprised and coffee alternatives for when I found the rich and those on campus who want to bold blend of coconut, chocoexperience the coffee house late and, what seemed like, alfeel without the coffee. mond attack my taste buds on KEITH BISTODEAU

“

VIDEO GAME REVIEW

Arts and Entertainment

Height and heart inspire local band MICHAEL WEILER Contributing Writer

Brothers Loyalty is huge.

Not “huge” in a popularity sense, but literally tall.

“We are all over the height of six feet two inches, which makes us the tallest band that I know of,” Dan Rau, drummer and one of the shorter members of Brothers Loyalty, said.

But don’t let their size fool you. These “brothers” are gentle giants to say the least.

The band goes out of their way to acknowledge their fans and make a point of staying true to what they believe -- musically and personally.

nation was a pop band with a different name, and with totally different people,” explained Rau. “We went through a lot of changes, as far as musicians go, in a very short period of time. We found that the people who were in it just didn’t have heart for the music we were playing, and they quit.”

Influenced heavily by groups like Every Time I Die

and Memphis May Fire, Brothers Loyalty recently began to tighten and tweak their sound, working to become a well-oiled machine.

With riveting drums driving the thunder of the bass and guitars, their sound comes across as heavy, yet polished enough around the edges to make their music teeter on the line of what is accessible and what is not.

“The main thing that motivates us and influences us is the fans,” Rau said. “We do all of this to get on stage, to have a good time, to give people a show, and we hope they love it as much as we do.”

Brothers Loyalty plays with Ice Station Zebra at 7 p.m.

Friday, March 25 at Gio’s Event Center 123 21st St. S. Moorhead, Minn. Tickets are $7 at the door.

“

We are all over the height of 6 feet 2 inches, which makes us the tallest band that I know of.

-Dan Rau, Brothers Loyalty drummer “We all want to make this our life,” Rau said. “We love music and it’s our passion. If we can turn it into a job or a career where we are getting paid to make the best possible music for our fans, then that would truly be a dream come true.”

After many changes to their lineup, the sound heard now from Brothers Loyalty is different than it was in the beginSubmitted Photo ning.

Brother’s Loyalty is committed to keeping a good relationship with their fans and “Actually, the band’s origialso using their music to tell a story.

In the moment with musician Eden Parker MICHAEL WEILER Contributing Writer

past music that represented Fargo has looked like,” Parker said. “But the artists that I have seen making waves in our music community have done so by presenting music with passion and depth that so much of mainstream music lacks.”

Parker talks like he sings.

He flows effortlessly from one thought to the next. He is never afraid to open up and

Eden Parker is everywhere - almost literally. Video shoots, “Stacking” brings inspiration from Russian nesting open mics. CD releases -- this dolls to the world of platform gaming. guy is everywhere he should be. And yet so many have not yet heard of him.

“As a relative newcomer to the Fargo music scene, I don't evil Baron has kidnapped his necessarily know what the family and it’s up to him to save them and the children of the world from slavery.

“Stacking” is an adventure puzzle game. There’s really no getting around that. You traverse the world looking for STEVEN clues and items to get past obSTROM stacles while conversing with a colorful cast of characters.

Staff Writer Because of Charlie’s small stature, he is able to nest Just what happened to Dou- within any other doll at least ble Fine? They have gone one size larger than himself from a developer that had and then one size larger than only made two games in 10 that and so on. Each nesting years to a company that has doll possesses a unique ability decided to make four games in that can range from the useful eight months. For someone (the power to move other dolls that has followed the devel- out of the way) to the downoper since the criminally un- right bizarre (a doll that can d e r a p p r e c i a t e d light explosive farts).

“Psychonauts,” the release of Every challenge in the game “Stacking” is not only bewil- has multiple solutions and dering but also highly appre- finding ways to combine the ciated. It’s hard proof that strange powers is the only way Double Fine can make more to unlock them all. It’s really than one game a decade and very delightful to try and figstill be just as entertaining. ure out new ways to get past The story of “Stacking” the same problem and the takes place in a faux Industrial game rewards if you do manRevolution era in which child age to find all successful labor is still legal, robber– routes. On the other hand, if barons rule the world and you are having trouble the everyone is a Russian nesting game comes with a very gendoll. erous hint system.

Yes, Russian nesting dolls.

Following in the Double Fine tradition of making games that are absolutely bonkers, Video Game Review “Stacking” puts you in the role on Page 6 >> Eden Parker gives Fargo a unique sound. of Charlie Blackmore, the smallest doll in the world. The Photo Courtesy of Facebook

This game’s a doll

bring you in -- if you’re ready for it, that is.

“My favorite shows are the ones where you can sit, watch the artist, and connect to their music -- absorb all that it is, and relate emotionally," Parker said. "It is rare to find this in the music scene here.

Most venues want artists and bands that will get people to dance, lose their inhibitions, and have a mindless good

Submitted Photo

time. I think that both ends of the spectrum are enjoyable.

For me, though, connecting with a song is so much more gratifying.”

“

Adding more instruments and depth to the arrangements is something I'm working toward at the moment.

Like many artists in Fargo, Parker understands the complexities of what it means to be original and how one still has to evolve and change, all the while balancing the fact that change can be a death sentence for many local artists.

“I don't know that I necessarily want my music to evolve into something different than it is now,” Parker said. “I think that intricate melodies, captivating lyrics, and raw emotion are the direction I have always strived toward with my music. When I write songs, I hear them in my head as full band arrangements. So adding more instruments and depth to the arrangements is something I'm working toward at the moment.”

And to be “in the moment” is all a musician can ask for.

Moments that are good, bad, and hopeful are moments nonetheless.

Eden Parker plays with Brenda Weiler, Brooks West, Shape then Shift, Dann K, and Shane Maland at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 26 at Ecce Art and Yoga 216 Broadway N. It’s an all-ages event and tickets are $10.

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

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Study Break BISON

BITS

Rylan Wolfe Puzzles Editor

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

What is your favorite aspect of spring break?

“I love the free time and being able to shut my brain off for once!” ACROSS Peter Rolczynski Undecided Freshman

1. Street fleet 5. Kind of fund 10. Hair curler 14. Lifesaver, e.g.

15. Portable dwelling 16. Nabisco cookie 17. Blood metal

18. Follow, as advice 19. Poetic foot 20. People who want more snow over spring break 23. "Peer Gynt" dramatist 24. Airport event 28. Maiden name preceder 29. Smidgens

33. Having some memory problems 34. Bantam 36. Multifaceted things 37. How high our sandbag dikes actually need to be 41. Skirt feature 42. Hardships 43. They may be red 46. Sonata finale 47. Scrabble 1-pointer 50. Outcasts 52. Rich dessert 54. How high our sandbag dikes should be 58. Tubular pasta 61. Jagged, as a leaf's edge 62. Help in wrongdoing 63. Therapeutic plant 64. Impressionist Edgar 65. Shore bird 66. Said "no contest," e.g.

67. Sudden burst of energy: var.

68. ___ quam videri (N.C.'s motto)

DOWN 1. Contribute, as to a poker pot

2. Organism needing oxygen 3. Wander through a bookstore 4. Balloon probe 5. Magi guide 6. Poland's Walesa 7. ___ no good 8. 1988 Olympics site 9. Shades of red 10. Phosgene, e.g.

11. Chapter in history 12. Dreamy state?

13. Syndicate 21. Go in 22. It won't run if it's fast 25. Strove (for) 26. Shady group?

27. ___ judicata 30. Jackson distributor 31. Designer Christian 32. Stiff-upper-lip sort 34. Like really old forests 35. Descartes's "therefore" 37. Earthenware pot 38. Number between drei and funf 39. Brick carrier 40. Poetic muse

41. Drain 44. Lao-tzu's way 45. Plays a face-melting guitar solo 47. Darkness personified 48. Carbon and stainless 49. Finish a suit?

51. Throat malady 53. Able to get into Rooters 55. Jellystone park resident 56. Winter Palace resident 57. Left on a map 58. Microwave 59. Down with something 60. Corn locale

Previous puzzle’s solution

CLASSIFIEDS “Getting away from the flood.”

Jordan Kraft Economics Sophomore

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

OTHER: $50 REWARD. LOST: Blue Tri-College lanyard with 3 memory keys attached.

Call Tri-College office 231-9731 if found. Lost in Morrill Hall or Memorial Union.

Exp. Date: 3/25/2011

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

SUDOKU Previous puzzle’s solution

“Not having any classes.”

Lauren Johnson Radiological Sciences Freshman

“There are so many activities during spring break.”

Andrew Moran Undecided Freshman

“Going to Mexico and getting tan!”

Alicia Johnson Zoology Junior

Compiled by Karl Brummer Spectrum Staff

<< Video Game Review from Page 5 This is where the uniqueness of “Stacking” really shines. Not only does the ability to stack within other dolls support the absolutely insane setting, but they also provide a new way of looking at the adventure game.

You see, every character in the game acts like an inventory item would in another adventure game. The difference is that every character has its own distinct personality. Picture the talking head from “The Secret of Monkey Island.” The talking head was an inventory item that could talk and react to situations and would add a bit of personality to your actions. Now, picture a game where every item that you interact with was like that and you would have “Stacking.”

Despite its crazy concept and delightful characters, the game is not perfect. For some reason, Double Fine thought it

would be a good idea to use a tank control scheme for moving your dolls about. Moving with the left stick and turning with the right stick can take some getting used to and never really leaves you feeling like you have as much control as you should. It’s odd why the developer thought that this curious setup was preferable to the traditional onestick movement found in most adventure games.

While “Stacking” might not be the perfect game, it is perfectly charming. Like Double Fine’s previous title, “Costume Quest,” there is more to “Stacking” than is immediately evident. The story is really about family and maturing by taking on more responsibility as represented by physically taking control of more powerful, mature individuals. It also features the best fart joke in any medium.

So yeah, there is that.

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

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Features

The Sand Mandala

How to recover when a friend betrays you ALYSIA LARSON Contributing Writer

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Tibetan Buddhist Monks from Drepung Loseling Monastery construct a Mandala Sand Painting Mar. 7-10 in the Memorial Union’s lower level.

Living with pets and allergies AMANDA HILLIER Contributing Writer

Many people love animals, however, some do not believe that they can live with them due to annoying pet allergies. With a few simple steps, many with pet allergies can enjoy the company of a furry companion.

According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), “Almost 70 percent of U.S. households have domestic pets. But almost 10 million pet owners -- including kids -- are allergic to their animals and must be extra careful around their furry friends.”

The most common misunderstanding about pet allergies is that you have to get a pet with little or no fur or a non-shedding pet.

But, according to the AAAAI, the true cause of pet allergies comes from the animal’s dander, skin flakes, saliva and urine; though fur can become an allergy issue when pollen, mold spores and other outdoor allergens are collected on the fur.

In fact, pets may not be the sole cause of an individual’s allergy, but rather a contributor.

Sanfordhealth.org states that “though pet dander is what people with pet allergies are allergic to, you would have to get an allergy skin screening to know for sure what you are allergic to.”

Some helpful hints from AAAAI to help make pet allergies bearable include the following: 1. Keep your pets outdoors, or create an allergy-free zone somewhere in the home.

This is a good way to set up with less allergens.

2. Remove airborne animal dander by cleaning the air with a high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filtered air purifier.

3. Wash pets weekly with dander reducing shampoo.

Bathing your pet on a weekly basis can reduce the level of allergens.

Hypoallergenic wipes work the best (found at Petco or PetSmart).

Another option includes pet refreshing sprays.

These can be sprayed lightly onto the animals to help reduce pet dander.

4. Vacuum frequently using a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner that removes and permanently traps airborne allergens.

5. Install a high-efficiency filter on home climate control systems to prevent dander from circulating throughout the home. Change filters seasonally.

6. Keep pets off furniture.

This helps limit the amount of dander that comes in contact with the furniture and thus reduces allergens.

7. Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling your pet.

8. Avoid furnishings such as cloth curtains, blinds and carpeted floors.

These materials tend to trap animal dander and other allergens.

This may be harder to enforce, especially if living in an apartment or any renting arrangement, but it would help out a great deal and would cut down on vacuuming.

So for those of you that have been discouraged to have pets before because of allergies, follow these tips for a pet-friendly home.

If you have never experienced the heart-wrenching emotions that come from one of your closest friends betraying you then count yourself as blessed.

The unexpected chaotic emotions that are experienced after someone who was never supposed to hurt you like that does can leave one feeling bereft about what to do.

There is no one-size-fits-all remedy when this type of thing happens.

Yes, it is not easy, but it can be done.

We each process differently, but hopefully these suggestions will help to make it an easier transition.

According to Cosmopolitan magazine online, “the first thing is to let yourself feel whatever emotion it is that is being felt.”

Now this is not to say that you should go and live out those revenge fantasies you have been creating in your head after the situation occurred.

But, if you feel angry, let yourself be angry.

If you feel hurt, let yourself hurt.

Let yourself feel however you want, but the key is to only feel that way for a few days.

It is easier to bounce back if you let yourself feel, but it won’t be easy to bounce back if you have been in the same rut for months.

Let’s call the time when you are letting yourself feel, the “feelings suck, I wish I wasn’t human so I couldn’t experience them” stage, or for short, “feelings suck”.

When in this stage, let the emotions out in an expressive way but not in a harmful way.

Perhaps start a kickboxing class to release anger or paint out your feelings.

Try writing a letter that says everything you wish you could say, even the not so nice things.

Just remember not to send it.

Once the “feelings suck” stage is over, then start telling yourself that it is time to show the world how awesome you really are.

Get together with friends that are totally supportive and essentially on your side throughout the whole situation. Talk it out with them.

Tell them about that awesome kick boxing class you’ve started.

Just make sure to let it be about how great you are.

According to Elle.com, “after this, no more letting the situation control you, let yourself be free of it.”

During this time is when you can then write an email or call the friend who did the betraying and ask about what happened.

Do not become angry or say anything that you may regret later.

Be controlled and talk rationally.

The last step is to decide whether or not to allow that friend back into your life or not.

Some things to think about are whether the friendship has been a long lasting friendship before the betrayal, if something like this has happened in previous times and if this is just one more thing that they have done to hurt you.

According to Cosmopolitan magazine online, a way to prevent your whole life from crashing if a friend betrays you is to “make sure that you have a few close friends from different circles, that way if a friend does this you have other people in your life that will support you.”

Always remember that everyone handles situations differently, just make sure that the way you handle it is in a mature way and an appropriate manner.

This way, when you look back on the situation, there will be no regrets.

LIKE -ALITTLE Here are the weekly NDSU cute flirts!

“

At mat bus: Female, Brunette. It was by random chance that u sat by me. You had left your gloves on bus and i had made a comical remarck about it.

We had introduced ourselfs and chated about what we were majoring in and where we were from and even with that info i can’t figure out who u are. You were a beautiful pharmacy girl that i would like to get to know more....but your stop came to soon for me to get the chance to get your number....hit me up if this was u!!!

“

At Union: Male, Redhead. Saw you walk by me in the union tonight. You are so good looking. I'm blonde, so your traits would dominate if you wanted help repopulating the redheaded race ;)

“

At West Acres Mall: Male, Black hair.

You work at Pretzel Makers and your smile makes my day!! Thanks for waving at me when I was working :)

“

At West Dining Center: Female, Brunette. Pink shirt, partially covered by a grey zip up, you're absolutely beautiful.

“

At Psych 111 @ 12 : Male, Blonde. You had a red coat with a blue stripe. You’re breathtaking.

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

8

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

Opinion

Another crazed celebrity

RYLEE NELSON Opinion Editor

If Charlie Sheen ran for president, I believe Obama would have reason to be concerned. Besides his insane popularity, Sheen would probably guarantee the people free lunar rides and address the president as being from “a different realm.”

His recent interview with Good Morning America indicated that he is not bipolar but he is actually “bi-winning.”

And the only thing that he uses is vacuum cleaners and blenders.

We as Americans are eating this up. As of Wednesday, his interview, from Feb. 28, 2011, had just over 5 million views.

His Twitter has been burning up with followers, as 1 million more people have subscribed, up from his 1.3 million on Thursday.

He is broadcasting over webcasts, using social networks to advertise and makes money while he does so.

“Sheenisms” have conquered the airwaves, as disc jockeys have made a colloquial standard out of Sheen's rants and raves, from both his famed interview and frequent twitter status updates.

It is safe to say that a majority of the population believes that his recent tirades have been caused by a case of the “crazies.” After a live drug test was broadcast on Good Morning America, with the negative results being delivered for the first time on live TV, people’s first suspicion was knocked out.

“

Just like the rising gas prices control our wallets, the crazed Sheen is controlling our attention.

So if we rewind and take a look at the person Charlie Sheen has made himself, you see that his current situation isn’t overly surprising.

He had a leading roll in a sitcom that focused on his womanizing character in constant loose relationships all while being a role model to his younger nephew. This position on “Two and a Half Men” was forcibly vacated by CBS’s request after Sheen’s initial breakdown.

In real life, Sheen leads a life seemingly just as tragic, if not more so. Back in October of last year, he was found in a New York hotel room with a prostitute while on a family vacation. I might add that his two kids were in an adjoining suite.

Most people would find this largely repulsive and morally wrong. Yet we still give Sheen an open ear to the radio, or a quick peek at the computer screen. But I am puzzled as to why we can continue to condone his behavior by continuing to give him attention.

Just like the rising gas prices control our wallets, a crazed, Sheen is controlling our inte est.

Charlie Sheen on Page 9 >>

An ‘A’ for effort MATT SEVERNS Spectrum Staff

The death of childhood ambition is always a terrible thing. For some, blowing out a candle becomes the gross manipulation of firefighting aspirations; for others, a four-bedroom house becomes the embodiment of a castle from some place far, far away.

For others -- those who wanted to inspire people to learn -- college coursework has stripped from their professional routine any semblance of true education.

Blame it on its privileged status, blame it on an unparalleled independence, but

whatever you personally settle on, it will ultimately lead to the same conclusion: that college does to the educational professional what a lottery win does to a hardworking individual.

There are definitely exceptions, and I personally have been perfectly pleased by the majority of my professors.

However, existing at an unacceptable rate -- a rate, which I place arguably too low -- are the teachers who are precisely the reason kids grow to dislike school.

Granted college students are not kids and granted they pay for school, but would a teacher who had any genuine ambition to help students learn as a youth be happy with who

they’ve become as a professor?

To those who answer no I encourage a curricular reassessment.

College students do not need

“

College students do not need recess and they do not need, necessarily, to learn through drawn-out metaphorical games. They do, in contrast, need their intellectual hunger satisfied.

recess and they do not need, necessarily, to learn through drawn-out metaphorical games. They do, in contrast, need their intellectual hunger satisfied.

Any lesson -- no matter how elementary -- should require thought. A general rule of thumb is that if a student doesn't ask a question that makes the educator, in response, have to think, the lesson isn’t complex enough.

A professor whose lesson plan involves getting students to simply remember information for the entirety of class should be replaced by one who encourages creation, which is both the highest form of learning and the ultimate purpose

of education.

The lecture is not obsolete, but primal thought is. Colleges and universities are centers of thought and creation. If teachers don't adapt their lessons appropriately, I encourage them to rethink their educational philosophy.

Whether an educational professional or just a contentfocused aspirant, it is imperative that they realize that we want to learn as much as the professor’s youthful ambitions wanted to teach. Realign that and they’ve singlehandedly revamped the education they put forth.

Matt is a junior majoring in English education.

Keep costs low to keep students DEREK GAFFNEY Staff Writer

The best thing about NDSU is that it is an inexpensive university to attend. Sure, NDSU has some great teachers and classes, but in the end, its main draw is that it’s easy to afford.

Apparently most of the representatives in the North Dakota House have either forgotten or are ignoring NDSU’s and the other state school’s top incentive.

Recently, the House voted with a vast majority to cut money out of the governor’s budget proposal that would

have gone to cap tuition rates at 2.5 percent. Without the cap, tuition increases are projected to increase by about 4.1 percent, but they could go even higher.

The incentive of affordable education is a powerful one. In an age where graduates often find themselves tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt with a degree and a dead job market, spending less on tuition is an important factor for many new college students.

When I was a senior in high school four years ago, I applied to two colleges: University of Wisconsin-Madison and NDSU. I was accepted into both colleges and had a big decision to make – where to spend the next six years of my life.

I toured Badger country twice, once during the spring and once during the fall. In the spring I sat and overlooked

University Bay and walked the campus with the masses of Badgers. In the fall I visited State Street and walked around Camp Randall Stadium during the Badgers/Purdue football game.

The atmosphere both times I visited was absolutely amazing. As a small-town kid who hated high school, the idea of walking to class every single day and perhaps never seeing the same person twice was a huge draw for me. The thought of standing in Camp Randall when the stadium starts rocking after a Badger touchdown was almost impossible to resist. NDSU had some work to do.

I toured NDSU in the middle of January during one of its infamous windy days. It was minus 47 degrees with the wind chill and walking outside was unpleasant, to put it kindly. It was so cold that we didn’t make the journey to the

Wallman Wellness Center, which is perhaps NDSU’s second-best asset.

I will admit I was not impressed with NDSU at all.

Even though I was shown all of the nice classrooms and not the awful ones in Steven’s Hall that are never above 50 degrees in the winter or below 80 degrees in the fall, NDSU didn’t have a whole lot to offer compared to UW-Madison.

The one thing NDSU did have to offer, however, was cost. Tuition at UW-Madison was a full 50 percent higher than tuition at NDSU. My parents, who are teachers, raised me to be frugal. Despite what people may think, teachers do not make a whole lot of money, and they instilled in me the common sense to not spend money I don’t have.

Ultimately, my choice between colleges had to come down to price, and here I am at NDSU instead of UW-

Madison. I rest easy at night knowing that I do not have any student loans, and that’s worth more to me than being dragged deeper and deeper into debt while cheering with Bucky.

The N.D. House of Representatives should remember stories like mine. NDSU continues to break enrollment records year after year because it’s affordable, but the House cut money out of the governor’s budget that would help keep tuition costs low for North Dakota students. If tuition rates in North Dakota rise up to the rates in Minnesota or Wisconsin, how many out-of-state students would come to NDSU or UND? My guess is not many. I know I wouldn’t have.

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

Involvement equals success HILLARY CLIFTON Contributing Writer

Going to classes and working an outside job is not enough. In order to achieve a fulfilling college experience it is important that we get involved. Getting involved could be anything from joining an organization, participating in an intramural sport or joining Greek life.

For some, it is impossible to do anything outside of work and school because of financial reasons or family conflicts.

But for those that are looking for something to do and feel like they are wasting away in residence halls and apartments, getting involved is a

great way to spend your time.

I have experienced two very different years at NDSU. My first year of college I chose not to participate in any outside organizations and focused most of my energy on school. I was not happy and my first year left me unfulfilled with very few new friends.

Year two was a complete turn around. I committed myself to becoming involved. I figured since I loved this university so much, it was my responsibility to give back and I chose to do that through my various activities.

I have never been happier. I feel like I have really gotten connected to the NDSU and the amount of friends that I have met have made this year

incredibly fulfilling.

Even if, at times, we are put in situations that go beyond our comfort zone this only makes us well rounded individuals. Each time we try something new, we learn something and it enables us to be more confident for next time.

Upperclassmen have the power to enhance a freshman’s experience by preaching about our many campus organizations. Freshmen and transfer students alike are incredibly impressionable. The first visit can make or break their experience here at NDSU. If we are getting involved, we are more likely to be seen as knowledgeable and pas-

sionate about the importance of becoming a valuable member of our college community.

Networking is also a huge benefit that comes from getting involved. As we develop interests in our various activities we slowly accumulate different groups of friends. The more connections we make, the easier it is for us to gain access to jobs, internships and opportunities to volunteer.

Networking is also great for references. The more people we know, the easier it is for us to find a reputable reference that we can use when searching for a job in our career field.

Overall there is no downside to joining campus organizations. Find one, two or three

that interest you and become actively involved in them. Saying you belong is not enough.

Participate to the fullest and reap the benefits that they offer.

There are so many different organizations and clubs on campus, that it is impossible not to find one that fits your interests or major.

College is not just about studying and work. College is about finding yourself, making friends and identifying yourself with your university.

The best way to achieve this is through involvement.

Hilary is a sophomore majoring in advertising.

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

9

Opinion LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Death with dignity CATE EKEGREN Spectrum Staff

The scene is set: Hilary Swank lies in a hospital room, hooked up to a respirator, dying, as Clint Eastwood stands at the foot of her bed.

Swank gives an Oscar-winning performance in “Million Dollar Baby” (2004) and revives the age-old controversy of assisted suicide.

Swank’s character, Maggie, asks for Eastwood’s character, Frankie, to help in ending her life. She says she has seen the world and has had people chanting her name. “I got what I needed. I got it all.

Don’t let them keep taking it away from me. Don’t let me lie here until I can't hear those people chanting no more.”

Assisted suicide has been a controversial issue for a long time but has been seen more in the past decade thanks to television and movies, such as “Million Dollar Baby.” This hot-button topic can most recently be seen in Peter Richardson’s “How to Die in Oregon,” released in January 2011, which was the winner of the Sundance Film Festival’s Best Documentary Award.

“How to Die in Oregon” is a thought-provoking documentary focusing on the topics of terminal illness and Oregon’s 1994 Death with Dignity Act. The film covers the stories of those most involved with the

We want answers not closed doors Dear NDSU,

Some of the reasons why the that will result in death within closing of the NDSU Child Development Center is not a six months.

Why make the patient suffer good decision by the Univerthrough six months of pain sity. and the loss of all basic freeTerrible “press” for NDSU – doms and enjoyment from life if they could have the choice to with the shortage of child care facilities in the Fargo-Moorend it all sooner?

There is no risk of patients head area – adding close to 40 making a hasty decision, as children in the mix to find they must be deemed capable good care is not supportive by before making a decision as our community.

In the past years, discussions serious as this. Also, while it takes 64 days on average from and focus groups were held the time of the first request to about how NDSU can be more the time the prescription is supportive of women faculty filled, patients have plenty of and staff. The closing of the time to back out if they are childcare center feels like a slap in the face, as well as a having second thoughts.

As much of a factor family waste of the time of the many and friends can be in the pa- women that participated in tient’s decision, it is simply not these focus groups. The feedtheir life. It is selfish for family back from the focus groups and friends to expect the pa- continued to revolve around tient to live out every moment the necessity and accessibility of his or her illness. Nobody of childcare on campus. The could ever understand the rea- closing of the Child Developsoning behind making the decision to end their life unless they are put in that position.

The name of this law speaks I find it greatly disturbing for itself. Patients that are that this type of behavior can faced with a terminal illness demand this much attention and have no desire to lie in a from us as society. We are givbed as they live out their last moments in hospice care should be able to make the decision to die with what dignity they have left.

We should all take the example of Oregon and adopt this policy. This is a matter of personal freedom, not an individual state’s opinion. Don’t let the issue that Swank and Eastwood brought to life simply die to myths of people’s incapability to make a decision: It could be you one day.

implications of this law: the patients, their friends and families and their physicians.

The Death with Dignity Act (DWDA) is far from what most think of when considering the topic of assisted suicide. There is no “pulling of the plug” and no patient makes a split decision to commit this physician-assisted suicide.

The act allows physicians in Oregon to prescribe a lethal medication to applicable patients when they take the medication on their own and not by the hand of anyone else.

There are many requirements to request a prescription for lethal medication.

Patients must be at least 18 years old, a resident of Oregon, declared capable of making and communicating health care decision and diagnosed with a terminal illness leading to death within six months.

If a patient meets these requirements, they are then able to request a prescription from their physician.

The Oregon department of human services notes that the patient must submit a written request, separated by no less than 15 days. Both the prescribing physician and a consulting physician must confirm the diagnosis and prognosis and must determine whether or not the patient is capable of making the decision. If either physician believes the patient’s judgment is impaired psychiatrically or psychologically, the patient must be referred for further examination I believe patients have every right to request assisted suiCate is a senior majoring in cide. The DWDA clearly states hospitality and tourism manthe patient must have been di- agement. agnosed with a terminal illness

ment Center feels like a slap in the face to the people that work at NDSU and believe in family support, as well as the importance of retaining female faculty and staff.

The loss of experiences that will occur for our current NDSU education majors is at best tragic. The loss of opportunities and experience they were able to gain will not be easily replaced. The Child Development Center was also a classroom for NDSU students to observe, research and learn more than can ever be learned in the traditional classroom setting.

The NDSU Child Development Center is a well run, highly recommended, and accredited child center that has assisted children to excel in their elementary schools. I have personal experience and success stories about how my daughters and other children have been prepared for their next steps in school.

The reasons I have been given for this decision include the “dire” state of finances at the University. Until we are able to balance the real time budget numbers with the real life experience gained by the NDSU students and the children affected -- I will not buy this excuse.

I would be interested to hear if other divisions would be able support this venture, rather than shut it down completely. Were there discussions about the Childcare Center being supported by Human Resources or Student Affairs?

Why weren’t families involved in discussions about these concerns before a decision was made? I feel like there should be another option out there, rather than a complete shutdown.

Sincerely, Anonymous

<< Charlie Sheen from Page 8 ing into cheap laughs at a person that is either seriously ill or learning how to play to the desires of a growing sensa-

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tionalistic culture.

I initially assumed that this would eventually peter out and Sheen would become another Brittney or Lindsey in a matter of days, but he seems to be playing his cards right.

So far he has been able to keep things new and exciting and we as the audience are simply fueling his fire to keep up this nonsensical behavior.

It really says something about culture when we are willing to give up morals to participate in a few cheap laughs. It’s time to establish a moral code instead of idolizing the next mentally unstable celebrity that graces a social network.

Rylee is a junior majoring in communications.

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

Sports

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Junior Katie Birkel (5) goes up for a shot against Oakland Jan. 22 at the BSA. Birkel ended the season with 1,035 points, which was good enough for 28th all-time at NDSU.

Redshirt junior Abby Plucker (32) goes up for a shot against IPFW Jan. 24 at the BSA. Plucker ended the year as a First Team All-Summit League selection averaging 16 points per game and 10 rebounds per game.

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Freshman TrayVonn Wright goes up for a shot against UMKC Jan. 29 at the BSA. Wright was the team's leading scorer in NDSU's ďŹ nal game against Oral Roberts with 19 points.

Bison Basketball 2010-2011

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Senior Michael Tveidt (23) goes up for a shot against the University of MissouriKansas City Jan. 29 at the Bison Sports Arena. Tveidt was an All-Summit League Second Team selection.

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Senior Whitney Trecker (44) drives the ball against Indian Purdue-Fort Wayne Jan. 24 at the Bison Sports Arena.

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

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Sports

Bison Basketball 2010-2011 Herd roundup

Predicting madness

TRAVIS JONES

Contributing Writer

Baseball The baseball team was in Murray, Ky. last Friday through Sunday for a four game set against Murray State. However, they only ended up getting three games in as Saturday’s game was cancelled due to rain. NDSU was still in search of their first win of the season.

Friday’s game featured an offensive showcase put on by Murray State. They scored 17 runs on 17 hits and committed just two errors in the game. Sophomore Kyle Kingsley was on the hill for the Bison but lasted just two innings while giving up five runs on six hits. NDSU did put up seven runs but it was not enough as the Bison lost 7-17. The Herd's seven runs came on 16 hits and had just two errors. Freshman DH Wes Satzinger hit a solo home run for the Bison, as he was two for five on the day. Junior Zach Wentz also had a big day going four for five with two RBIs. After a rainy Saturday, the two teams were back in action Sunday as they were slated to play two games. Zach Wentz was on the hill in game one and pitched well as he went five innings while giving up four runs and seven hits. Murray State had their bats working as they put up 12 runs on the Bison. NDSU also continued to see the ball well as they scored seven times but took the 12-7 loss. Freshman Tim Colwell was two for four with a pair of RBIs on the day. Junior Tyler Steen was one for four on the day but he drove in a pair of runs with a double in the seventh inning. The second game on Sunday was a different style of game as the two teams had been playing earlier. It was only to be a seven-inning game as sophomore Mark Hermes had the ball for the Bison. He pitched very well as he went four and two thirds innings while giving up only two runs on five hits. Zach Wentz had the only offense to speak of for NDSU as he doubled in the first and drove in a run but it wasn’t enough as Murray State took the 2-1 victory.

Zach Wentz was named Summit League Player of the Week on Monday. Wentz hit .462 and drove in four runs over the weekend. NDSU fell to 0-10 for the year.

Softball

Micah Zimmerman/The Spectrum

Redshirt Freshman Taylor Braun (24) fights for rebounding position against Centenary College Jan. 8 at the BSA. Braun ended the year as the team's leading rebounder.

CBA nonsense

CAVIN BERUBE Staff Writer

I wrote about the impending lockout a few weeks ago, right after the season ended. For those of you who don’t follow the NFL very closely, the CBA has expired. The CBA, or collective bargaining agreement, is an agreement between the players union and the NFL team owners. It is an agreement that includes everything from how much the owners will make to how much the players make, their health insurance, and all other aspects of a regular job.

Well, the deadline was extended for the two sides to work out a deal. Today is the end of the week extension that the two sides came to. It might be solved by the time this edition is put out on newsstands but I doubt that. Some of the main points of disagreement are how to split the $9 billion in revenue that the NFL makes as a whole, possibly switching to an 18-game season and the possibility of a rookie wage scale.

About that $9 billion, that’s a ton of money. People are living out on the streets, homeless, the unemployment rate in our country is the highest it’s been in recent memory and people are struggling to make ends meet. And these guys are

arguing about how to split $9 billion?

The 18-game season idea is also a mess. Hey Roger Goodell, ever heard of the idiom, “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it?”

This is just another ploy for the owners of the 32 NFL teams to make more money.

They all have yachts, mansions and Jerry Jones has a billion dollar stadium, but they apparently need more money. What is with this situation?

The rookie wage scale is something that I believe in.

No rookie, who’s never played a game in the NFL, should be guaranteed $50 million. It works in the NBA, and I’m assuming it will work for the NFL. If the two sides can’t come to an agreement, there will be a lockout and won’t be an NFL season until the two sides can meet. Don’t worry: There are already players like James Harrison who says he doesn’t know how he’s going to get health insurance for his family. The guy made nearly $6.5 million last year and he’s worried about insuring his family.

Live a day in an unemployed man’s shoes James, take that in and take it for what it’s worth.

This whole disagreement is a disgrace to the NFL and the players and it’s only hurting the fans. We go out and buy merchandise, purchase tickets, and even buy a few adult beverages at the stadium.

These players will survive without a season, but the truth about this mess is that it’s only going to hurt the largest fan base of any major American sport.

The Bison were in Gainesville, Fla. for the University of Florida Lipton Invitational Friday through Sunday as they played a total of five games.

In their first game on Friday, the Bison found themselves matched up against Valparaiso. NDSU didn’t have anything going for them as Valpo scored five runs in the first inning and never looked back, taking the 8-0 victory. Randi Parks started the game but got just two outs as Whitney Johnson pitched the rest of the way. The Herd did however right the ship in the second game as they squared off against Gardner Webb and earned a 5-2 victory. Senior Richel Briones was one for three with two RBIs. Junior Katie Tamayo earned the complete game victory for NDSU. NDSU played twice again on Saturday as they started off the day by facing No. 2 ranked Florida. Florida showed why they are ranked number two as they ran all over the Bison, winning by a score of 18-0. The Herd then took on Syracuse in the second game of the day and the Orange scored only three runs, but it was enough to win as the Bison fell 3-0. On Sunday, the Herd took on Florida once again and it was much of the same for the Gators. NDSU fell once again 9-0. The Bison are 7-13 for the year and will start their conference schedule on Saturday.

DANIEL GUNDERSON Sports Editor

March is really an awful time of the year. You have impending floods, blizzards or both at the same time. The temperature fluctuates so much that you never know if you can wear shorts or if you need to dig out your winter survival kit. Those lucky enough to go somewhere on spring break come back sun burned, dehydrated and staring at an empty bank account.

Those who don’t go have the impending flood, blizzards or… Well, you get the idea.

That is why the NCAA men’s basketball tournament is such a welcome relief to everyone. It gives us a break from all the gloom the month contains. What is even better is that most of us try to play the ultimate clairvoyant and pick the winners of all 63 games. We enter “pools” where we pick our teams, our underdogs and our dark horses. We want to beat Frank from accounting because the idiot always rubs it in your face about how he’s a basketball genius. You have seen the guy’s jump shot at the gym and the only thing he is an expert at is laying bricks.

We enter the office pool, a pool with our buddies, a pool with your brother-in-law, a pool with a dude at a bar because he bought you a drink that one night. Some are for free, others you pay to join. It becomes an obsession, much like your fantasy football addiction, which you promised your girlfriend you would quit because it makes you curse in front of her 90-year-old grandmother.

By the time selection Sunday hits, you already know the teams that are in and out of the “Big Dance.” You just want to see when and where these teams play so you can program your DVR accordingly.

Teams are seeded and you have nine different brackets in front of you. You separate them into groups of three. One group is your upset group.

These are the brackets that resemble the Bible because miracles are happening all over the place. The second group is your straight chalk group.

This is the group that has all the higher seeds moving on except for your eight versus nine seeds. The final group is the important group. This is the group of brackets you pour your heart and soul into. You look up stats, compare common opponents, whose RPI was higher, strength of schedule. You may even search Facebook to see if a player has an open profile, just to see if his personality might have an outcome on the game. You leave no stone unturned, and no question unasked.

Finally, that first Thursday of the tournament has come and you are ready. All nine brackets laid out in front of you as the games begin. You feel all right after day one, only two games wrong in your best bracket. Friday comes and goes and you feel a little worse. Should’ve realized 12 seeded Wofford was better than fifth seeded Arizona. You cried over that one. The weekend comes and goes and already eight of your nine brackets have found the garbage.

Going to work the next day you find out intern Sally is leading your group. How did she do it? She picked what teams would win based on who had better colored jerseys. Welcome to March Madness folks.

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