The
THURSDAY, NOV. 14, 2013
VOLUME 117 ISSUE 21
Spectrum
NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY | FOR THE LAND AND ITS PEOPLE
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LOSING A LEADER
Sam Herder | Sports Editor
he eerie atmosphere was striking. As the Bison football players finished their postgame prayers midfield at the Fargodome last Saturday, many fans stayed in their seats to watch their team leave the field. But this time was different. Gone was the admiration and glee of the Bison’s 18th straight
model. “He’s a big, big part of the glue, if not the biggest part of the glue, of our team,” Jensen said after the game. “It’s really discouraging to lose a leader like that.” The Bison have enough glue and talent to fill the void of Olson well enough that won’t squander the hopes of a three peat. But the road becomes a lot tougher. It wasn’t just his physical presence
victory. In its replacement was concern and somber. Because as one last player left the field, the realization came that this was probably the last time that player would be on the field as a player. Senior middle linebacker Grant Olson suffered an ACL tear, a feared phrase throughout the athletic world, on a routine tackle three plays into the second half. The sight of Olson on the sideline with crutches, getting long hugs from quarterback Brock Jensen and athletic director Gene Taylor, was alarming. All eyes, whether you were a fan or an objective media member, were fixated on Olson instead of the resuming gameplay. It was shocking. Olson is the player that racked up 29 tackles in a 14-7 playoff win. He is the guy that recorded over 100 tackles in a season, the first Bison player to do so since 1998. He is the man that was in a hospital bed because of appendicitis the Monday before the national championship game, yet suited up to help hold Sam Houston State to 13 points. Olson, with his fitting raspy voice that speaks proudly of his faith, is as sturdy as a light post, as unselfish as a charity event, as loyal as a dog and as reliable as the sun rising every morning. He epitomizes the definition of a captain, a leader and a role
that made Olson valuable. He is a true leader on the field. A captain’s captain. The quarterback of the defense. A coach in pads. It was a joy watching Olson man the middle. He was the guy that all his teammates on the field were looking at as he gave nonverbal signs with 18,700 screaming fans surrounding him. He is typically the first one there to celebrate a good defensive play with his teammates. Olson plays the game the right way with fierce competitiveness. He conducts himself off the field the way a student athlete should. His image can be seen on a framed poster in the Memorial Union and at some Matbus stops. In professional terms, he is the face of the franchise this year. But sometimes, the game of football is an unforgiving one. NDSU head coach Craig Bohl confirmed everyone’s fears Monday at his press conference. The career of one of the best to put on a Bison uniform has ended abruptly. But, Olson isn’t done leaving his mark on the NDSU program. Now, he is the player that stayed on the sidelines, strapped an icepack to his knee and put a clipboard in his hand to help his team finish the game strong against Illinois State. He is the teammate that is postponing his surgery, just so he can stay on
STOCK PHOTO | THE SPECTRUM
the sidelines to be a coaching figure the rest of the year. Because that’s the kind of man Olson is. “Grant has been the most instinctive, brightest football player I’ve coached in 31 years,” Bohl said. Many Fargo media members said before the season started that Olson is the one player the Bison can’t afford to lose. But, Olson will still be a vital part in the push for a third straight national championship. He is as respected a player there is.
And that’s why the way he went out sent a shock around BisoNation. As the phrase goes in this situation, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” When people think of this historic run the NDSU football has put on 20 years from now, they will think of four names: Bohl, All-American Marcus Williams, Jensen and Olson. It’s just sad, disappointing and downright wrong that, now, two of those names will have to lead their team on the sidelines.
‘Grant has been the most instinctive, brightest football player I’ve coached in 31 years’ - Head Coach Craig Bohl
GARRET BECKER | THE SPECTRUM
historian talks of tuskegee airmen
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WEST FARGO HIGH PRESENTS ‘JOSEPH’
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JOSEPH RAVITS | THE SPECTRUM
Ron Spriggs spoke at NDSU’s Century Theatre on Tuesday. Spriggs started his organization to educate the public about the Tuskegee Airmen.
Historian Tells Story of Perseverance
Spriggs makes stop at NDSU, tells story of Tuskegee Airmen Colton Pool
Co-News Editor
Ron Spriggs knows how to tell history. Spriggs, Executive Director of the Ron Spriggs Exhibit of Tuskegee Airmen, took his knowledge to NDSU and presented his “Exhibit of the Tuskegee Airmen” on Tuesday at the Century Theater at NDSU. The Tuskegee Airmen were a unit consisting of African Americans who fought in World War II for the United States. Though they helped win the war for the U.S., they helped win another crucial battle back home. Spriggs said the Tuskegee Airmen were a vital part of the progressive movement towards the integration of black citizens into the U.S. armed forces. Soon after World War II, President Harry Truman signed an execu-
tive order that outlawed any racial segregation within the U.S. armed forces. “Their biggest legacy is that they did overcome segregation,” Spriggs said. “They went through some pretty rough times when the Jim Crow laws were prevalent in all branches of armed services, as well as in the community.” Spriggs retold the history of the airmen during his presentation. The historian was not afraid of depicting history how it happened and what civil rights activists needed to do in order to get African Americans into the armed forces – without any form of segregation. “Stories of veterans can be hard to tell and often people forget to take the time to listen,” Regina Ranney, diversity program coordinator at NDSU, said. “Listening to stories of veterans, like that of the World War II Tuskegee Airmen, is a way to express gratitude for the loved ones and strangers that defend our freedoms.” Spriggs told history through not only a serious manner, but by humorous tones as well. Even while the crowd was laughing, he
The Power of Empathy
Meeink treads path from Neo-Nazi to equality activist Caleb Werness Staff Writer
Resentment: it’s drinking poison and hoping somebody else dies. It was a feeling Frank Meeink grew accustomed to in his days as a Neo-Nazi. Meeink, now a speaker and equality activist, spoke at NDSU on Nov. 6. His speech followed a showing of “American History X” in the Century Theater. “American History X” is not Meeink’s personal story. However, the movie did share some aspects of his life. He said it is a good movie and it portrays the Neo-Nazis and their mentally well. He claimed his path to where he is now was tough. Through his self-transformation, Meeink said he learned about himself and who he wanted to be. “The thing that changes human beings is one of the greatest emotions given to us by a higher power,” Meeink said. “That is empathy.” Meeink spoke about growing up in an abusive home in South Philadelphia. He was beaten by his step-father from an early age. His school was hardly an improvement, as a day without a fistfight was rare. The only console he received was when he spent a summer with his cousin. This was where a young Meeink was exposed to the Neo-Nazi movement. It was the first time in his life he felt accepted. Frank joined the skinheads and quickly rose in the ranks. Eventually Meeink ended up serving jail time for multiple offenses. After getting out, Meeink got a job moving furniture. Coincidentally, his boss was Jewish. Frank thought he knew what type of person his boss was based on the stereotypes he grew up with. Those assumptions, he found, were completely wrong. Despite the swastika tattoo on his neck, his boss would tell him every day how good of a person he was. This kind of compassion is what started him down the right path.
Meeink severed ties with the skinheads and sought out a new life. He went to the FBI and confessed everything. A friend told him that he should talk with the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish civil rights group. Meeink said he was reluctant, but eventually agreed. He had lunch with the head of the ADL, Barry. A few months later Barry called Frank and asked if he’d speak to his daughter’s class. Meeink shared his story to the group of second graders. He was sure he had scarred them with all the violence. About two weeks later, he was invited to Barry’s house. Barry handed Meeink an envelope of letters from the kids saying that he had such an impact on them. This was the start of his speaking career. Besides speaking, Meeink also was a part of a program that teaches hockey to inner city kids in Philadelphia. He said this as one of his greatest joys. Meeink also gave examples the impact of having somebody who understands your situation has. Freshman Mitch Dufour said that he felt Meeink’s lecture was quite impacting. “(Meeink) gave us a lesson,” Dufour said. “Empathy and teaching people is important.” An audience member asked if he was aware of the situation in Leith, N.D., where a man is trying to purchase land and establish a white supremacy town. Meeink said he was aware of it, and they are trying to find a way to stop it. Frank is coming to the end of his current tour, with only two more stops before he can return home. “It’s a crazy lifestyle,” Meeink said. “Sometimes I’m not being home for two or three weeks at a time.” At the end of his lecture Meeink was met by multiple people wanting to shake his hand and thank him for the impact he had on them personally with his story. Most of them stressed his biggest point. “(Empathy) is what changes the world.” he said. “If I can feel for someone…it makes me not want to do harmful things to another person.”
knew how to get his point across. “It was for civil rights,” Spriggs said during his presentation. “It was a fight to fly and it was a fight. It was uphill.” Ranney said it was important to bring Spriggs to NDSU’s campus. Having taken place one day after Veterans Day, Ranney said it was a chance to show off not just military history, but a diverse background of it as well. “Honoring the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen is an opportunity for us to gain a deeper understanding of a group of American heroes that made exceptional commitments to our country, despite not being fully accepted at home or on the battlefield,” Ranney said. Having fought in World War II, the Tuskegee Airmen’s history has been lost in the shuffle. Spriggs said he started his organization in 2002 because he wanted to educate more people about the squad and the impact they had on racial segregation. Since then, he has made it his mission to make sure that the unit will not be forgotten. “I started to realize I didn’t want my
children to grow up not knowing about the Tuskegee Airmen and who these heroes were,” Spriggs said. “Our mission is to say that we don’t want the history of the Tuskegee Airmen to die. They were very good at what they did in World War II.” Spriggs said he has noticed an eagerness to learn about the African American history as he went around the country. He said the curiosity has been very encouraging for him. “There seems to be a hunger, even amongst the young students in middle schools or what have you,” Spriggs said. “This stuff is not taught as a core curriculum item.” Perhaps one of the best parts for Spriggs as he has toured has been the welcome he has received. He claimed he has never gone to a place when he had not been well received. Spriggs said Tuesday wasn’t far from the norm. “The reception has always been very good, eye-opening and very well received. In my 12 years, I have never had a bad reception when I have shared with a group of folks,” Spriggs said. “Today was no exception.”
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NDSU ROTC Gets a New Lifetime Sens. Heitkamp and Hoeven and Rep. Cramer secure 2-year extension Yasser Shaikh Staff Writer
The Army Reserve Officers Training Corps has decided to put the ROTC Program at NDSU on a twoyear probationary period. The decision came on the heels of Veterans Day celebration after Congressman Kevin Cramer urged the Army ROTC to reconsider their decision. The ROTC Program that serves NDSU, MSUM and Concordia has been formally a part of NDSU since 1920, which was authorized in 1917 but wasn’t executed because of World War I. It is one of the first schools to have established a ROTC program in the nation. As of now, there are 78 students enrolled in the program at NDSU. The decision to shut down the program came in the beginning of October. Letters of support soon followed it from Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Rep. Kevin Cramer to Army Secretary John McHugh. The program was being shut down because the government was trying to find ways to economize and maintain a demographic balance.
“This action is a not a reflection of either the quality of your program or the outstanding cadets you have produced,” Assistant Secretary of the Army Thomas R. Lamont stated in the original letter informing NDSU of the closure. Lieutenant Colonel Ted Preister, a professor of military sciences at NDSU added: “This was merely a quantity-based decision. And we are already on a glide path to meet the requirements of a successful program.” The current batch graduating in October has 15 seniors and the next batch already has 17 cadets set to graduate in 2014. Although as of now, LTC Preister has not received official guidelines about what requirements have to be met during this probationary period, he is confident in the program. “It has been stated in the past that 12 would be an adequate number of graduating class with at least 5 or 6 (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) majors,” Preister said. “In the 15 that we are set to graduate this year, 6 are from STEM background.” He is appreciative of the support his program has received from the president of NDSU, alumni and veterans groups in Fargo-Moorhead. “While I appreciate the army’s need to find nationwide efficiencies, I believe their decision in the case of NDSU was based on convoluted and inaccurate information,” President Dean L. Brescani said in an email to The Spectrum. “I’m glad
we were able to effectively correct that error through the combined efforts of both North Dakota’s and Minnesota’s congressional delegations, North Dakota’s governor, the North Dakota National Guard, the Presidents of all three involved institutions and program alumni from all over the country. Their swift and coordinated effort was nothing short of exceptional.” Cadet Nick Whitehead, who is a senior awaiting commissioning in May 2014 added: “I was surprised when I heard about the closure, especially considering our performance in the last two years. But now that we have been given the extension I am sure that we are here to stay. This program is not going away.” The program will be evaluated periodically at the end of 2014 and 2015 fiscal years to monitor its success before a final decision is made about its fate. “There is a lot of institutional momentum,” Preister said. “The Service will work with the school administration to do what is necessary to improve the quality of the program.” The Bison Battalion, which is housed in the Benston Bunker Field House since 1931, has produced an admiral and two general officers, one of whom, a threestar general is the J-4 for the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Another lesser-known fact about the NDSU ROTC is that the Gold Star Marching Band is originally an ROTC chartered program.
North Dakota Moving Up Website claims North Dakota as best state for people in their 20s
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To pay for books and tuition.
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In a country ravaged by government debt, young people are looking for jobs, places to live and somewhere to get away. Though it may not be exactly known as a great place to live, North Dakota may be the place to go. According to an article by moneyrates.com, North Dakota is the No. 1 state for people in their 20s. The website took many factors into account such as unemployment rate, median rental cost and broadband internet access. “It’s not exactly a glamour spot, but North Dakota is attracting young people,” moneyrates.com said in the article. “It now has a higher proportion of people age 18-24 than any other state.” Another factor taken into the selection was the cost of college tuition, a detail studied closely by many young people. As claimed by moneyrates. com, the average annual four-year college cost is $11,092 in North Dakota. The median cost of rental living is $644, which may appear like a big number to some. But, compared
to the other states moneyrates.com had in their top 10 best states for young adults, it’s one of the lowest rates out there. Jordan Steffan, a 21-year-old junior at NDSU majoring in computer science, said North Dakota is a great place for college students looking to make the next move in their lives. “The job market is competitive, but you’re going to have that anywhere that there is a college because so many people will be scrambling for the same job,” Steffan said. “At the same time, we’re very organized in a way that supports colleges.” Financially, North Dakota sits well compared to other states. Unemployment is at 5.1 percent -- a big reason for the success of North Dakota’s economy. One of the major contributors to the economy of North Dakota has been the arrival of the oilfield. Having grown up in western North Dakota, Steffan said the Oil Patch has presented pros and cons to the area. However, Steffan said the economic growth has been a big help for people looking for jobs. “For North Dakota as a whole, it’s a good thing,” Steffan said. “The oilfield draws people away from the other jobs, so there’s more openings in every field it seems like.” A person may imagine a glaring hole North Dakota citizens in their 20s may have is places for entertainment. A reason that may ex-
plain why only 9 percent of North Dakotas population is made up of people in their 20s. But according to moneyrates.com, there are plenty of places to have fun. In fact, North Dakota has the second most hangout spots per capita in the entire United States. “Having the lowest youth unemployment rate helps,” said the moneyrates. com report, “but what may surprise you is that North Dakota also has more bars, pubs and nightclubs per capita than any state besides Wisconsin.” Steffan said that although he wasn’t a fan of North Dakota’s nightlife, he does enjoy the state as a whole. He said there are plenty of opportunities in North Dakota, especially for those his age. “If you’re looking for a job, then North Dakota is the place for that right now,” Steffan said. “There’s pluses and negatives to every part of it obviously.” Though the study by moneyrates.com takes into account many details, some important factors may be not even be measurable. Steffan said one of the best parts about being in North Dakota is not only a sense of community across the state, but a feeling of safety as well. “I don’t feel like if I went to the bar and if I left the bar I would get mugged or anything,” Steffan said. “We all just go there and expect to be a little more tight-knit, and I think that’s just good for the college experience.”
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The Spectrum
Marlin’s restaurant is spacious, inviting and for people of all ages. Students also get 10 percent off their meals with their I.Ds. Here Mike, one of the cooks at Marlin’s, prepares for breakfast.
MATAYA ARMSTRONG | THE SPECTRUM
Marlin’s: Not Nemo Themed
Emily Imdieke
Contributing Writer
Marlin’s, aka the restaurant attached to Stamart, aka how much is that bison in the window restaurant, aka Nemo’s father’s restaurant…Okay maybe I’m the only one that calls it that last two. Driving past Marlin’s almost every day may have allowed me a lot of free time to give it my own nicknames. That being said, it has also allowed me a lot of time to see the eatery’s “Half-Off Burgers: Mondays from 5 to 9” sign. I do not personally know when the last time it changed its marquee was, because I feel like the image of that sign is engraved in my head… Anyways, a trek was made to Marlin’s in order to benefit from this half-off burgers
deal, because who doesn’t like a good deal? Not to mention again how much it annoyed me to see its sign every day. We arrived at Marlin’s a freckle past five and it was, oh, how you describe it…dead. There might have been a couple of other families there, but even the waitresses were sitting down and didn’t notice us until our heads were peaking over the booths looking at their table. Although upon reaching us, they made sure to tell us about their half-off burgers. Getting down to business, we each chose one of Marlin’s eight burger selections. I ordered the Texas Tangler and my friend ordered the Bourbon Burger, due mostly to the fact that he didn’t want to order the same thing as me, to which I say: finder’s keepers. To me, the burgers were actually pretty tasty, especially since mine was loaded with
fried onion rings. The main dish also came with your choice of what seemed like 50 options of potato sides. It provided great entertainment to have the waitress repeat these options continuously, like its own form of torture. The only complaint I would have about the burgers would be that they aren’t very large. I don’t really eat a ton of food at restaurants, but even I could tell the noticeable size difference in hamburgers. The inside of the dining establishment was nicely decorated, not anything too noticeable or flashy, but your typical fake wood, classic, comfortable dining area. I was actually surprised by how much I didn’t notice that we were connected to a gas station. Other than in the entrance, you would have no idea that truckers were a few feet
“Overheard at NDSU” began as a place to share interesting things heard on campus, but has turned into a community for people to share more, such as this photo above.
away, getting their dose of caffeine and gas station food for the next leg of their trip. My only suggestion is that they should decorate it like “Finding Nemo” because that would be exciting and…Marlinesque. Not to make wild assumptions, but I think that Marlin’s has its Monday burger deal due to the fact that they don’t get a lot of business. I would still recommend the restaurant if you want a good deal on hamburgers, but don’t expect to be filled up, especially if you are a college boy who thinks they need to eat everything in sight. Furthermore, don’t go there if you want a restaurant that is “Finding Nemo” themed…sorry if I got your hopes up.
IMAGE COURTESY OF | JONATHAN KERANEN
The Evolution of ‘Overheard at NDSU’
Connor Dunn Features Editor
What started a few years ago in Churchill Hall with a just a couple friends having some laughs has now turned into the most recognizable Facebook group on campus with over 10,000 members. The Overheard at NDSU Facebook page was created in 2009 to be the place where any student can post the ridiculous, hilarious things people say on NDSU’s campus. Walking to class, hanging out at the Union, or sitting in lectures, anywhere was fair game as long as the post was appropriately funny. However, the page’s contents have recently deviated from the original intent. Unlike others, Overhead at NDSU founder Courtland Miller is not bothered by the change. Miller created the page his freshman year after being shown a Facebook page with the
similar idea at UND. “Anything UND can do, we can do better,” said Miller about UND’s page, which currently has only 153 members. After some research into the history of Overheard, which was started by some eavesdroppers on the bustling streets of New York City, Miller brought the humor to NDSU as his site went live. Through word of mouth and connections, the page witnessed its first 100 people join overnight. Fellow roommate and cofounder Tyler Kemp believed, like Miller, that their max was about to be met with a couple hundred members. The two could not have been more wrong. “It’s crazy now that there is over 10,000 people in the group and 10 more joining each day,” said Kemp. The sudden popularity has caused some consequences with the content of posting in the group. Because of the shear size of the
audience, spam has been frequently posted on the site. “Random fake Facebook accounts will go onto the page and post about sunglasses for $10 or something like that,” Miller said. “People will report it, and I’ll delete it, but still, no one wants to see that.” The other change is a more debated topic. Since anyone can post, the content has been changed to not only be things overheard on campus, but basically anything that pertains to NDSU and its campus. Described by Kemp as a “forum for NDSU students,” the page received posts of professors dressing up for Halloween, cars being horribly parked, people finding lost Bison Cards and keys. Miller had his opinion on the purpose of the group change, as he would like to see a healthy mix of comical conversations overheard and interesting, important happenings on NDSU’s campus.
Miller cites the reasoning behind this change of opinion comes from the very best and the very worst of NDSU’s recent history, consequently the two times Overheard has seen its greatest increase in members. “When the four NDSU students died in a car accident last February, people came together and began posting in the group, sharing memories, offering support,” said Miller. “It was one big Bison family.” With the last two years resulting in National Championships in football, people have again come together as one Bison family to post pictures or pure elation from Frisco or Fargo or nationwide. “Overheard is engrained in the fabric of NDSU,” Miller said. Even though the group is constantly walking the line of what is appropriate to post, NDSU will always have a humorous, informational source that is the Bison family on Overheard at NDSU.
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THE SPECTRUM | FEATURES | THURS, NOV. 14, 2013
More to Allergies Than You Think
Mercedes Pitzer
Contributing Writer
Imagine your throat beginning to tighten, hives breaking out across your forearms and an itching sensation beyond your control. This can only mean one thing—allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s website, approximately one out of five Americans have allergies. This means that 60 million people deal with these inconveniences on a daily basis. As stated on the AAFA website, “allergy is characterized by an overreaction of the human immune system to a foreign protein substance (known as) an allergen that is eaten, breathed into the lungs, injected or touched.” There are many types of allergies including indoor, outdoor, skin, food, drug, seasonal, latex and eye allergies. Along with these different allergies, there are also numerous symptoms that result from said allergies. Symptoms can be considered minor or they can be considered very severe. Minor symptoms include coughing, sneezing and a runny nose. On the other hand, severe symptoms include rashes, low blood pressure and even death. Some people are lucky enough to find out that they have allergies right away in life. This is exactly what happened to Jacob Kubik, a
junior majoring in public relations and advertising. “When I was born, I was diagnosed with being allergic to mold, grass and animal hair,” Kubik said. Other people learn that they have allergies much later in life, usually through unfortunate experiences. According to Alexis Vondal, a senior majoring in finance, she did not know that she was allergic to kale until this past summer. “I was making a juice drink in a juicer where you mix a bunch of fruits and vegetables together as a meal supplement,” Vondal said, “when my throat started closing up and my ear canals began to itch.” To make sure she avoids kale from now on, Vondal explained that she reads the description of the ingredients in the food that she wants to eat prior to eating it. This is a small price to pay to avoid such serious consequences. Now, for the most part, people remain allergic to something all throughout the year and for their entire life. Some people however, can have seasonal allergies, or they can even outgrow their allergy. Seasonal allergies refer to people who are allergic to things such as pollen, mold, trees, grasses and weeds. A person may be allergic to these things year round, but people with seasonal allergies usually only experience symptoms for part of the year. This is especially true during the springtime, when these outdoor allergens become apparent. To deal with these seasonal allergies, Amy Burau, a North Dakota State University alumnus, said she takes medications such as Zyrtec, Advair and Flutica-
sone, along with sinus rinses and decongestants when needed. As for outgrowing an allergy, this is sometimes possible. I for one used to be highly lactose intolerant, meaning I could not consume any form of dairy without taking the proper medication for it. Today however, I can consume small portions of dairy without taking medication, and am completely fine—no more severe stomachaches. Although I may not be completely cured of my allergy, for this is impossible, it has improved significantly. Unfortunately, others may not be as lucky. Some people must take so much precaution about their allergy that they are forced to wear a bracelet that informs others of their condition. “Wearing bracelets can inform doctors that people are allergic to medications if they are ever in an accident and can’t tell them themselves,” said Kristin Roe, a senior majoring in management communication. Roe is allergic to penicillin, so she always tells new doctors that she is allergic to this particular medication. Even though she chooses not to wear a bracelet, Roe thinks that it could be very beneficial. Overall, allergies are among the most common, yet often overlooked, diseases in the United States. It is important to know your body, know your family’s medical records (for allergies are genetic), and to seek a doctor’s help if you even think you may be allergic to something. It could be the difference between life and death, so be sure you know what to do at any given moment.
Chubs Tailgate Party NDSU VS Youngstown State Starts At 10am In Our Parking Lot...Saturday 11/16 $3.50 Pounders...$1.00 Off Jack, Jager and Fireball Free Food & Fun....(Must Be 21)
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6 THURSDAY, NOV. 14, 2013
Arts & Entertainment
NDSUSPECTRUM.COM
The Spectrum
JACK DURA | THE SPECTRUM
Cutline cutline cutline.
West Fargo Adds Its Own Color to ‘Dreamcoat’ Jack Dura
Staff Writer
Some musicals are presented so often that their popularity presents a few challenges. Every cast and crew wants to make their production stand out from the rest, and the students of West Fargo High School are doing just this in their current production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” This is the show that ended Trollwood Performing Arts’ years in north Fargo in 2008. It is also on the roster of Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre shows this season, appearing at The Stage at Island Park in April 2014. For its production, West Fargo is relying on some interesting design elements and lighting techniques to add a new edge to this popular show. As a rock opera, this show’s script is all songs—two dozen of them to be precise. This leaves dialogue out entirely and presents an interesting challenge for transition-
ing from scene to scene. This, however, is where the unique design elements concocted by the cast and crew come into play. “There’s this fixed (pyramid-like) step unit sort of thing here, different platforms and levels, and that doesn’t change,” director Adam Pankow said. “But you see on the side, (these) two pyramid things, those roll away. So not until Joseph gets to Egypt, then the pyramids get in place.” Other set pieces and props fly on and off the stage, such as a few sphinxes to replace the pyramids. Moving and changing is what the set is all about, but more importantly, the lighting provides the smoothest slides into each respective scene. “A big part of the transitions with this show is maybe not necessarily relying all on the tricks that the set can do, but do(ing) simple and not-so-simple things also with the lights can really change the mood and really change the setting,” Pankow said. “The set on a lot of levels is very simple, but the lighting that we’re doing with it is ‘oh my
gosh.’” New lighting technology has been brought in for a more enhanced lighting design. LED tape lining the set gives off a neon glow to light everything up and cast each scene in just the right mood. Video technology is also being brought in to provide moving pictures and audience scans, similar to what can be seen at large music concerts. “Light is constantly being shifted and changed, and this will be a show with a lot of light cues, each number kind of treated as its own kind of piece of the story,” Pankow said. This show’s story—based right out of the Bible—makes the transition from Scripture to song, with the students behind it all familiar with music in one way or another (band, choir, etc.). Some may think that a show sung the whole way through is too heavy a challenge for high school students to overcome, but Pankow knows his cast is completely prepared. Based on past performances, this show is nothing to worry about.
“I wouldn’t say that this is the hardest in the musical theatre canon,” he said, “but it presents challenges, and honestly, if there weren’t challenges that it gave to cast members, to my technicians, to our orchestra, I would have no interest in doing it. If we’re not challenging ourselves, then what’s the point?”
TICKET INFO TIME
7:30 p.m. (2:30 p.m. on the 17th and 24th)
DATE
Nov. 15th-17th and 22nd-24th
PRICE
$8 for adults, $6 for students
PLACE
West Fargo High School Theater
PS4 vs. Xbox One Launch Titles Nolan Alber
Contributing Writer
Anyone who’s following the next-gen console war already has Nov. 15 and 22 marked on a calendar as the dates the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, respectively, launch in North America. For those picking up consoles on release date, the biggest concern is what games they’ll waste the night playing. An abundance of third-party games have already been announced: “Battlefield 4,” “Call of Duty: Ghosts,” “Madden 25” and “NBA 2K14” are just a few titles that will be available on both consoles (as well as the current-gen PS3 and Xbox 360), and will undoubtedly be some of the best-selling games at launch. Aside from these, though, each console features its own (rather short) list of exclusive games that will be available at launch. These titles may not sell systems, but they provide insight into the shape of things to come. Sony’s PlayStation 4 doesn’t offer too much in the way of meaty next-gen experiences. The new IP “Knack” encompasses young and old gamers alike, featuring simple beat-’em-up game play set in a charming world, while “Killzone: Shadow Fall” is a continuation of Sony’s beautiful and critically acclaimed FPS. But aside from these promising entries in the PS4’s library, the rest of the roster is
filled with indie titles like “Resogun” and “Sound Shapes.” These titles are great in their own right, but not the kind of “killer app” most day-one purchasers have been looking for. Perhaps Sony’s best pitch for the console is the addition of free-to-play titles “DC Universe Online” and “Warframe.” These games are free to download and play, with optional in-game items and content that cost real currency, but are never required to finish the game. With a lower launch price than the Xbox One and the bonus of solid, low-cost indie and free-to-play games, the PlayStation 4 may prove better suited for the budget gamer. Microsoft, on the other hand, is focusing on variety for its exclusives. The Xbox racing franchise “Forza” makes a return, boasting vastly improved AI and sleek visuals. “Ryse: Son of Rome” is a gorgeous thirdperson brawler that could rival Sony’s “God of War” series. The ace in the hole though is “Dead Rising 3.” This zombie apocalypse simulator could easily be one of the best offerings in next-gen gaming for quite a few years. Microsoft hasn’t forgotten about free-to-play either; “Killer Instinct” is a remake of a classic fighter, and available to download for free, with extra characters running at $4.99 each. Though neither console boasts an exhaustive list of exclusives or a clear edge over its competitor, both companies have
WHITNEY STRAMER | THE SPECTRUM
been working hard to encompass any type of content a gamer wants to play. The big guns for next-generation have still yet to be unloaded: Microsoft’s “Halo 5” and “Titanfall,” and Sony’s “Infamous: Second Son” and in-house projects will presumably enter
the market sometime in 2014. But those determined to have the newest hardware, whether PS4 or Xbox One, should be content with the titles lining the store shelves in a few weeks.
7
THE SPECTRUM | A&E | THURS, NOV. 14, 2013
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‘Fetishes’ by Smoota - Album Review ‘Sultry indie pop’ Eric Lindholm
Contributing Writer
Singer and trombonist “Smoota” is coming out of the gate strong with his debut album, Fetishes. The album he wrote, recorded and produced in his bedroom sports a crisper sound than records with millions of dollars in production costs, and that has allowed him to get the attention he deserves from the industry as a whole. While many don’t know him by name, most of us have probably heard some of Dave “Smoota” Smith’s work. Working with Miike Snow, Pretty Lights, The Violent Femmes, Elvis Costello and about a dozen other artists, Smoota has quietly become one of the industry’s most prolific figures, and his maiden voyage into solo work puts his immense musical talent at center stage.
Fetishes is, admittedly, a one-trick pony, but that one trick is well worth the price of admission. Almost all 12 tracks on the album feature only a handful of instruments, chief among them Smoota’s trademark trombone and a few pieces of vintage electronic music hardware. In the hands of an amateur, this would have resulted in an extremely bland assortment of songs, but Smoota manages to keep it all feeling fresh and fun with each song. As you might guess from the title, Fetishes focuses on love, sex and all sorts of kinky business in each and every song. However, it never resorts to senseless vulgarity to hammer a point home. Smoota focuses on establishing a mood in his music, and letting the listener fill in the unspoken context of his songs. Instead of pandering to adolescent ideals about the subject matter, Fetishes uses frank language and a direct approach that offers a refreshing change from other music dealing with adult topics.
IMAGE COURTESY OF | STAY GOLD STUDIOS
I personally recommend track 2, “I’m Sorry,” as a jumping-off point, due to its heavy use of ’70s electronic drum and bass techniques and Smoota’s groovy vocal delivery. Another track to try is “Pretty Poison,” track 5, which showcases some of Smoota’s excellent studio editing techniques and a New Orleans swing sound that really stands out from the rest of the album.
Overall, Smoota’s debut may not be for everyone, but if any part of Fetishes sounds good to you, it definitely merits a listen. It is a pleasure to see an artist that has been so prolific in instrumental capacities making his solo debut, and I suspect Smoota will have much more work to share with us in the future. I give Smoota’s Fetishes a 7/10.
‘Urinetown’ Calls on Company Strength Photo: Tim Kemple
Visit www.gliks.com to find your nearest location
Concordia production combines ensemble and satire Jack Dura
Staff Writer
In a season that has been described as one of “award-winning, powerhouse shows,” Concordia College Theatre is throwing down a Tony-winning musical at its Mainstage Theatre this and next weekend. “Urinetown,” a songfilled story of a dystopian “pay-to-pee” society, puts ensemble strength and satirical comedy together in a kind of show that is a long time coming at Concordia. This is the first Concordia musical calling for this kind of ensemble power for director Jennifer Thomas, who has directed three previous Concordia musicals. “Urinetown”—though it has its share of main players—brings everyone together for the show’s numerous songs as well as keeping
most of the 26 performers onstage as much as possible. “There’s probably five or six (main roles): Bobby Strong and Hope and Cladwell and Lockstock and Pennywise,” Thomas said, “and there’s a whole host of named characters who have songs or solos who really rock it as well.” Set in a drought-afflicted society suffering a water shortage, “Urinetown” follows the uprising of the poor who cannot avoid the privilege to pee. Led by Bobby Strong, the poor take on the Urine Good Company, the imposer of the rigid restrictions on restroom activities. Interestingly enough, all of this was inspired by an experience of Greg Kotis, one of the playwrights of “Urinetown.” “(O)ne of the authors was traveling through Europe and he would be locked out of his hostel during the day and would have to pay to pee,” Thomas said. “And so that concept sort of came forth, and the first production of this was a Fringe Festival production in New York, and so it had a very strong, postmodern exploration of the American musical.”
Since its 2001 premiere, “Urinetown” went on to win two Tonys for Best Book and Best Score. Its value is something more as well, as lessons and laughs course through this show. These features work well with each other, as “Urinetown” is a self-satirizing comedy musical, but it does not mock its characters in the process. “They really are believing in ‘follow your heart’ when it’s a giant heart floating around the stage,” Thomas said. “They’re earnestly trying to follow that heart rather than making fun of the character for believing to follow you heart.” Pure, sheer entertainment is what “Urinetown” is all about. A live band accompanies the performers, who are timing the musical to last two hours. A talkback about sustainability and public policy will take place after the Nov. 21 performance, with a few faculty members and a student representative on hand to ignite discussion about the environmental themes seen in “Urinetown.” A fundraiser for River Keepers will also take place during the musical’s run. Taking in “Urinetown”
will be good for anybody with these opportunities to learn more about and directly help the environment on large and small scales. That and the grand old time of seeing a show are what await audiences these next two weekends at Concordia. “I haven’t worked on a show that I haven’t laughed at this hard in a while,” Thomas said. “It’s beautifully ridiculous.”
TICKET INFO TIME
8:00 p.m. (2:00 p.m. on the 23rd and 24th)
DATE
Nov. 14th16th and 21st-24th
PRICE
$10 for adults, $5 for students
PLACE
Concorida College’s Mainstage Theater
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8 THURSDAY, NOV. 14, 2013
Opinion
NDSUSPECTRUM.COM
The Spectrum
The Benefits of Bilingualism Do American schools need to change? Rhianna LaValla Staff Writer
Over the course of my short time here at NDSU, I have met quite a few new people. I would say a good half of them speak a foreign language. Why only half you might ask? Well, those people that speak a foreign language usually come from somewhere other than the United States. The other half is from the United States. Most countries in Europe require students to start learning another language in grade school. I have a friend, Caroline, who lives in Germany and she started learning English and Italian in second grade. So why do we not do this in America, supposedly one of the most educated first world countries? I know it would have been much easier to learn a language when I was young compared to now. I took three years of Latin in high school and suffered through every minute of it. Next semester I’m taking Arabic, and I’m quite apprehensive. The main reason I’m taking it is because my major is journalism and there is no way it wouldn’t benefit me. I also have friends that speak Arabic to help me. But compare my high school and college language experience with that of a second grader, who is learning English grammar. I think it would be much easier to combine the learning of two languages at a young age, so the child has something to compare their new language to. Yes, I can compare English to Arabic now in my adult years, but I can hardly say I remember anything about grammar in grade school. That was the one part of Latin that I was absolutely horrible at. I did not understand the concepts of Latin grammar, as hard as I tried. Perhaps if I had learned Latin and Latin grammar along with English grammar in grade school, I would have remembered both. Learning a second language would not only help children to become more diverse, but it will help the world as a whole to communicate better. Even some jobs these days require you to know another language, which would have freed up some time for me in college had I already learned Arabic. Another reason I am taking Arabic is because it actually really bothers me that I am not bilingual. Much of my Canadian family also speaks French. I consider it a skill to take pride in. My mother was bilingual, as was my grandfather. His first language was French. For quite a long time, he couldn’t even write in English. Today, that is all he can write in— my mother also. Not practicing a language you have learned, even if it was your first, can dim your knowledge of it. He made his signature when he couldn’t write in English very well, and it has stuck ever since. I got a tattoo of it, to not only honor my grandfather, but to remind myself of what language means to me. My question for you to ponder as the day goes on is this: Should America change policies to make learning a foreign language in grade school a requirement, or even just an option? I did not have the option to take a foreign language in grade school. This change would make America’s future brighter. Rhianna is a freshman majoring in journalism.
The Generation of Hacktivists Samantha Wickramasinghe Opinion Editor
When Jeremy Hammond pleaded guilty of hacking into the private intelligence firm Stratfor and leaking email and credit card information, he said his goal was to “shed light on how governments and corporations act behind close doors.” Hammond use to be a hacktivist in the group Anonymous and his intention of hacking was to reveal anti-terrorism laws that are used to spy on citizens. The purpose here is not to make a stance against the government or powerful private institutions. Likewise the people who unjustly gather information while justifying their actions by anti-terrorism agendas, Hammond’s authority to justify his actions is questionable. What makes it right to reveal information to the public in an end-justifies-themeans manner? If that is the case what are the limitations? It is dangerous to give authority to anybody to illegally access public information either in the name of “protecting national security” or “revealing information to the public.” Jeremy Hammond is sentenced to stay behind bars for the next decade. But the
MATAYA ARMSTRONG | THE SPECTRUM
story of Hammond and many other activists like Julian Assange, Edward Snowden and the group Anonymous tell us that the face of political activism has changed over time. They also tell us that people are demanding for transparency in governance. The challenge now is to find a platform where hactivists can do their activism without infringing people’s rights. It may look like an impossible mission but if the hacktivists can establish a narrowly–tailored legal approach of acquiring public information, it
will transform governments and will help to build much more transparent governing systems. The end-justify-the-means approach is not a healthy approach and it will create questions of hactivists’ integrity. The key is to look for ways that are ethical and legal to acquire information, not ends that justify acquisitions. Samantha is a senior majoring in journalism.
Replacing Quality with Quantity
How artificiality has soothed our consumers’ souls Amber Zolondek Staff Writer
It has become increasingly harder to understand the culture I am being raised in nowadays. In a world where things were wholesome, good and truly genuine, now I am finding little by little that the grade of things are slowly diminishing and decreasing. Friendships are faked through a keyboard and computer screen, fashion and logos are forged in order to create a cheap price tag for the spender—not looking to invest but simply own—our bodies are quickly filling with preservatives from food that actually doesn’t taste that great. We have substituted artificiality in order to save time, money and energy, and it has only caused problems. Facebook and Twitter allow posts and
tweets to be sent from anywhere in the world, but are the messages truly candid and meaningful? The quickness and convenience make it seem like a task we can just cross of our to-do list and say, “Glad I took care of that,” instead of enjoying the communication and one-to-one chat. I have admittedly been guilty of this one when I have become overwhelmed with texts and phone calls that I am unable to answer. Perhaps I am looking for excuses or maybe even just avoiding the social activity. Either way, it’s a growing pastime for our generation as well as those to come. Being a college student, it’s not always easy to pick up a $50 sweater and think, “The quality of this is fantastic,” because what I initially see is the price. Quality over quantity, I know, I have taken some courses in apparel and textiles. But, our society sees fashion as this rapidly changing field and board of inspiration that we can barely keep up as followers. Fast fashion is what I like to call a “cheap substitute for style.” It is essentially broken down, as fashion designed to be inexpensive and last long enough for the trend, but the quality and the price is subpar because of business tactics and budget.
However, we accept this type of production because it fits our budgets and lifestyles. In reality, the clothes we spend pennies on the dollar for rip and tear far more quickly than a shirt or pair of denim would that costs twice as much as the phony. The most disturbing part of accepting imitation is not what we wear or talk about affects us the most, but the food we consume has begun to deteriorate America’s health. Processed, sugary and high-sodium foods have been filled to the brim with preservatives and trans fats that clog our arteries and add poundage to the scale. While again, fast foods, like fast fashion, was designed to be for on-the-go families, the convenience and speed are going to catch up with us eventually. We have replaced quality with quantity in the modern society. Unfortunately, when we devalue something for a cheaper alternative, it is a struggle to rebuild the name and the market and this applies to communication, clothing or even food. Amber is a sophomore studying public relations and advertising. You can read more of Amber’s columns on her blog: http://addcreamandsugar.blogspot.com.
a multitude of benefits from legalizing marijuana both financial and otherwise. First, the income received from taxation. Like alcohol and cigarettes there is a “sin” tax on them. In 2009, according to Turbo Tax, the U.S. federal government made $8.5 billion from the tax on cigarette sales alone. I believe the income made from the tax on legalized marijuana would be about the same. This money could be well used to fund the education system and other programs. Another benefit toward the legalization of marijuana would be how it would take away power from the drug dealers. It would become a cash crop and the money that would normally be in the hands of drug dealers now goes into the pockets of working Americans. It would be money that would help stimulate the economy, similar to tobacco in the 19th century. Along with the power being taken away from drug dealers, legalization would lower the crime rate. In 2010 there were approximately 750,000 people charged with marijuana possession. About one-third of them were charged and sentenced.
That means approximately 250,000 people were costing the federal government money by being booked in the prison system. To me, that is a waste of tax dollars. Also, I don’t get over worried about marijuana, because I have never seen an aggressive pot smoker. Honestly, every pot smoker I have seen just wants to sit and chill. They grab a bag of Doritos or make a run through the Taco Bell drive-thru. Lastly, I would consider the ban on marijuana similar to prohibition of the 1920s. Having it illegal causes people to go through shady means to get their weed. Like I said, if it would legal the power of those distributing it would dissipate. I think the economic benefits would be substantial and the legalization would eliminate many of the problems in the criminal justice system caused by marijuana possession. As a disclaimer I do not advocate marijuana, as it is currently illegal, but believe it would be a solution worth considering.
Don’t Fear the Reefer
Should marijuana be legalized? Caleb Werness Staff Writer
A hot topic on the national news scene has been the advocacy for the legalization of marijuana. Recently, both Colorado and Washington have allowed for legal sale and possession of marijuana. Both states have implemented a tax on sales. Colorado has stated that they will use money for improving the education system and the highway system. This has raised question across the nation: Should marijuana be legalized nationwide? Personally, I consider myself pretty conservative, but on this matter I swing more toward the left wing. I think there would be
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Caleb is a sophomore majoring in English.
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR North Dakotans Should Have a Strong Perception and Outlook of its Energy Industry
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Because of oil and gas, our state is
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What is the Trans-Pacific Partnership? Michael Zastoupil Contributing Writer
Every weekend when I was growing up, there was always a fight over where our family should go out to eat. My family consists of my mom, dad, my brother Bryan and myself. My dad always wanted to get a burger, my brother only ate cheese nachos and cheese pizza, and my mom and I craved more variety. We argued back and forth until we came to a consensus, and then we went out to eat. It wasn’t pretty, but at least everyone had a say in the decision. Now imagine that this coming weekend, my dad and brother get together without my mom and me. They hide upstairs in the closet so my mom and I can’t hear them talk, and they refuse to let us join the conversation. They decide that from now on we should all eat at a restaurant where they happen to serve only nacho cheeseburgers. It sounds completely unfair, right? Right now, this situation is unfolding on a much grander scale in a proposed free trade agreement called the Trans-Pacific Partnership. This trade agreement currently includes Australia, Peru, Malaysia, Vietnam, New Zealand, Chile, Singapore, Canada, Mexico, Bru-
9
THE SPECTRUM | OPINION | THURS, NOV. 14, 2013
nei Darussalam, the United States and Japan. Essentially, the goal is to remove all trade barriers to make international trade between these countries as easy as possible. This agreement would have profound effects on laws concerning food safety, prescription drug costs, the ability to “buy American,” environmental policies, Internet freedom—you name it. In fact, this agreement would encompass 40 percent of the world economy and influence the lives of millions and millions of people. So who gets to make these decisions? According to the United Students for Fair Trade, the only people who can negotiate or even look at the TPP texts are national leaders (like President Obama), trade advisors from these nations’ governments, and approximately 600 lobbyists from corporations that have been granted “trade advisor” status. The general public is not allowed to negotiate. Civic groups are not allowed to negotiate. Even members of Congress have only limited viewing status of the TPP documents. The only reason anyone else knows about these trade agreements is because parts of the document were “leaked.” Starting to sound a little imbalanced? There is also a possibility that when the negotiations are over, the TPP could be “fast-tracked” through the law-making process, forcing Congress to vote “up or down” on the bill without having any power to make amendments to it.
Let me give an example of how the TPP could affect something that I am passionate about: local food. Eating food that is locally produced encourages fresh foods as opposed to foods sent from faraway places, which are therefore loaded with preservatives to give them a longer shelf life. Eating locally produced food also decreases the amount of energy and packaging used to distribute foods, supports your own hometown (what’s up, Fargo?), and it strengthens relationships within communities. According to the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, any laws that promote local food only, such as a Farm-to-School program that connects fresh garden veggies with public elementary schools, could be deemed an “illegal barrier to trade” under the TPP. Any international food corporation who wanted to sell food to that school could actually sue the school for preferring local food, because international trade laws trump domestic laws. If you are interested in how the Trans-Pacific Partnership could affect you, I encourage you to learn more at http://fairtradecampus. wordpress.com/ or do some of your own research. Voice your opinion. Don’t let nacho cheeseburgers be negotiated in the dark if that’s not what you want for dinner. Michael is a senior majoring in crop and weed sciences.
more on it.
thriving. Record-setting tax revenues
Look at the new STEM building
are reducing income and property taxes.
NDSU is building. This $29 million dol-
Oil production is driving manufacturing
lar grant from the state was paid for in
growth for equipment and oilfield sup-
part due to the oil and gas industry de-
plies. Construction is up across the state
velopment.
as new businesses and new residents
Also, the state government has au-
move to North Dakota and power our
thorized historic funding increases for
real estate markets.
NDSU, which will help keep tuition
While other graduates across the
costs from rising. Without the increased
country fight for any job at any pay, our
tax revenue from the oil and gas indus-
college students are finding great jobs
try, none of this would be possible for
in professional fields. As a student my-
NDSU.
self, I see my friends receive job offers
The oil and gas industry has given our
from North Dakota firms who can’t find
state great jobs and wages, opportunities
enough people. They get to stay here at
for professionals and workers, unlimited
home while pursuing ambitious careers,
potential for entrepreneurs to start small
a very different situation than the North
businesses, and a thriving economy. Stu-
Dakota of just a few years ago.
dents graduating from NDSU have end-
Look at how the oil and gas indus-
less opportunities in the state, and a large
try has affected NDSU. The state has a
part of this is due to the strong economy
huge budget surplus when other states
from the oil and gas industry develop-
have record setting deficits and debt.
ment.
While other states are cutting and delaying spending increases for higher education, North Dakota is spending more and
BRYCE HEUSTIS JUNIOR, FINANCE
I’m sorry you aren’t informed.
Should have read:
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10
Sports
THURSDAY, NOV. 14, 2013
NDSUSPECTRUM.COM
RET BECKER | THE GAR SPE CT RU M
The Spectrum
The volleyball notched a Summit League win with an impressive sweep over Denver. The youthful Bison are one win from reaching .500 in conference play.
NDSU football won its 18th straight game and improved to 9-0 on the year after a 28-10 victory Saturday over Illinois State. Brock Jensen threw for three touchdowns, two to Zach Vraa, with his 198 yards passing. Kevin Vaadeland received the other touchdown and John Crockett scored to seal the game with one minute left in the game. Crockett rushed for 104 yards and Carlton Littlejohn recorded 16 tackles.
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Fargo hosted The Bison Open on Saturday and saw 12 place-winners for NDSU. Steven Monk claimed the title at 165 pounds and Josh Rodriguez won at 125 pounds. Mitch Bengston (141 pounds) and Hayden Zillmer (174 pounds) took second while Hunter Weber placed third at 125 pounds.
The NDSU men’s basketball team began its season with a 93-49 victory over Viterbo on Friday. The Bison had five players score in double digits. Mike Felt led the way with 23 after hitting seven three pointers. Taylor Braun added 16, Dexter Werner had 12, TrayVonn Wright had 11 and Lawrence Alexander finished with 10.
The NDSU women began its basketball campaign Friday with a 112-62 win over Mayville State. Marena Whittle led the way with a career-high 20 points while adding nine rebounds. Brook LeMar contributed 19 points and Holly Johnson poured in 15. The Bison shot 55 percent from the three-point line and forced 17 turnovers.
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NDSU volleyball went 2-0 on the weekend in Fargo. Friday’s 3-0 win over Western Illinois clinched a playoff berth in the Summit League tournament. Emily Miron hit 15 kills and Jenni Fassbender added 12. Saturday’s sweep over Omaha gave NDSU a 6-6 record in conference play. Hadley Steffen led the way with 10 kills.
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The NDSU women’s soccer team dashed into the Summit League championship game after beating rival SDSU 2-1 Friday. The third-seeded Bison got goals from Anisha Kinnarath and Lauren Miller. NDSU then lost in the title game to No. 14 and top-seeded Denver, 5-1, Sunday. The Bison pulled the game to 2-1 after a Miller goal in the 10th minute, but Denver pulled away for the conference crown. NDSU finished with a 9-10 record.
The Next Guy Up Joe Kerlin Staff Writer
A prayer circle—the last thing the Bison football team does before walking off the field every Saturday. It’s unclear who leads these sacred moments of prayer, but you can’t help but think during everyone’s moment with God last Saturday, thoughts were with the Bison middle linebacker. Grant Olson had done it exactly 114 times during his career. Last Saturday, during Olson’s 115th and likely last solo tackle, Olson’s knee gave way and his anterior cruciate ligament tore while bringing down Illinois State running back Marshaun Coprich. Suddenly, the hectic Fargodome crowd was hushed into silence only moments into the second half. The Dome was dead. A decibel so low, it
Colton Pool
Spectrum Staff
At 1 p.m. this Saturday, the No. 1 ranked Bison will have a chance to clinch the conference title against Youngstown State (82, 5-1 MVFC). The Bison (9-0, 6-0 MVFC) will go to Youngstown, Ohio, for their final road contest of the regular season. “That’s a huge opportunity for us. It’s a big challenge,” Bohl said. “What happens after the game, we’ll deal with. Our players recognize the competitiveness of the Missouri Valley, and they also know Youngstown is an excellent football team.” For the rest of the preview, visit ndsuspectrum.com.
rivals the silence that was made a year prior when Johnny Towalid high-stepped over the Bison’s perfect record. Only whispers from anxious Bison fans were audible as the captain of the defense they adore was attended to helplessly on the turf. As Olson was carried off the field, with minimal pressure on his left knee, the crowd applauded its captain one last time. “He’s a rare breed,” Bison quarterback Brock Jensen said when mentioning his conversation with Olson after the prayer circle dispersed last Saturday. “He has given every ounce of effort and commitment to this program and that’s something he can be proud of.” Jensen and Marcus Williams were the last players on the field with Olson as the senior appeared to be taking it all in before walking off the field for the last time as a player at the Fargodome. “I was telling him that he’s a great player,” fellow defensive captain Williams said. “He’s been the heart and soul of our defense
ever since he’s been around here and he’s our general, he’s our captain.” The Bison will have a major hole to fit in its defense with its middle linebacker sidelined for the rest of the season with an ACL tear. Bison fans will hope for a repeat of last year when the team rallied around the loss of its strong safety, Colten Heagle, and nose guard, Leevon Perry. And something tells me the resilient Bison won’t let its general, its leader, Olson, down. “It’s tough to say in this situation, obviously with a team leader like (Olson),” Jensen said. “But it comes down to the next guy up. …The next guy has to step into that role and be able to get it done because that’s what good programs do.” Stepping up is something the 2012 team was successful doing and there seems to be a star on the rise that will have to fill the void with Olson’s absence. Carlton Littlejohn will be the next guy up Bohl said during Monday’s press confer-
ence. The junior linebacker made a careerhigh 16 tackles against the Redbirds and was awarded the Missouri Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Week. Littlejohn is more than capable of filling the void in the middle, and Bohl said Littlejohn’s old Sam linebacker position will be taken by Esley Thorton, a former back-up quarterback. Thorton has played 20 games on the defense for the Bison and has only played sparingly while Will linebacker Travis Beck deals with his reoccurring shoulder injury. The pressure will be on Thorton more than Littlejohn for the remainder of the season as Thorton will have to prove himself quickly, starting for the first time in his career this Saturday. The Bison will still have Olson’s presence on the sidelines for Saturday’s game as he exchanges his football cleats for a headset and like all leaders do, will do everything in his power to lead the Bison to another MVFC championship.
Conference Title on the Line PLAYERS TO WATCH FOR
#12 KURT HESS, SR. QB 63.7 pct passing, 2038 yds, 20 TDs, 4INTs #80 Andrew Williams, SO. WR 369 yds, 2 TDs #29 Martin Ruiz, Fr. RB 994 yds, 14 TDs, 6.1 YPC #2 Teven Williams, JR. LB 66 Tackles, 3 TFLs, 1FR, 1FF
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THE SPECTRUM | SPORTS | THURS, NOV. 14, 2013
Bison Men Begin Season with Win Over Viterbo Sam Herder Sports Editor
Taylor Braun looked to be going in for the easy layup on a fastbreak. Then, Braun rose up and threw an oop off the backboard to a trailing TrayVonn Wright for the slam. That sequence of events summed up the NDSU men’s basketball team’s 93-49 victory over Viterbo, Wis., at the Bison Sports Arena. The Bison had a slow start to the game Friday, only leading the Hawks 16-14 eight minutes into the game. But NDSU’s defense rose up and only allowed two points in the last 12 minutes of the first half. The Bison’s defensive stand saw a 16-point run over a span of eight minutes. The Hawks only attempted five shots during the run. NDSU pushed the tempo off of turnovers, racing out to a 43-16 halftime lead. “This team has the ability to do that, not only against Viterbo, but a lot of different teams,” NDSU head coach Saul Phillips said. “If we play without fouling, our legs bother people.” Braun’s oop to Wright at the 16:05 mark in the second half extended NDSU’s lead to 53-23. Like most of the game, Viterbo, an NAIA team, could do nothing but watch as the Bison flexed their muscle. No Hawk players were within defending position to prevent the dunk. “We don’t teach the oop off the backboard,” a laughing Phillips said. “Taylor told me he threw it because
Tray never runs the floor that hard so he had to reward him.” The dunk rewarded the Bison with a 30-point score advantage that made Braun’s decision on the oop not very hard to decipher. “I got the steal and I was just going to go and dunk it, but Tray called my name as I was running down,” Braun said. “He can do some crazy things and I can, too, so I just wanted to give the crowd a little excitement.” Braun’s teammate Mike Felt also joined in and gave the gradually dissipating crowd some excitement. Felt put on a three-point show, lighting it up with 23 points on 7-of-11 shooting from beyond the arc. Felt led a balanced scoring attack that saw five Bison players with double digits and ten players tallying at least two points. “I’ve seen him shoot so much … I’m a huge believer in Mike and his ability to shoot the basketball,” Phillips said. “At a lot of different levels, he’s an elite shooter.” But it was NDSU’s defense that helped surge the 93-49 victory. The Hawks were held to 15-of-44 shooting while committing 17 turnovers and being on the receiving end of six blocks. Five of those made jumpers came in the first eight minutes of play. After that, the Bison rose up to put the game away quickly. “We set a pretty good tone about midway through that first half that ended it for us,” Phillips said.
Bison Women Blast Comets for SeasonOpening Victory Joe Kerlin Staff Writer
The NDSU women’s basketball team flexed its Division I muscle against Mayville State University, allowing no easy baskets for the team out of the NAIA. The Bison opened the regular season at the Bison Sports Arena with a convincing 112-62 victory Friday night. The Bison out rebounded the Comets 56-26, with every Bison player except for one, hauling in at least two rebounds. “The greatest benefit we have is that we use our gray guys,” Liz Keena said following a five-rebound performance. “We get to play against their size and strength and that gets us prepared more than anything.” The NDSU women’s basketball team recruits players from the on-campus Wellness Center to help prepare its post players for the physical battle that comes with rebounding, said Keena. “The NCAA allows male practice players,” head coach Carolyn DeHoff said. “It’s up to our kids to use that to their advantage, and it showed tonight.” Sophomore Marena Whittle led the Bison with nine rebounds. Whittle was perfect 7-of-7 from the free throw line, leading the Bison in scoring with 20 points. Junior transfer Brooke
LeMar added 19 points, with 13 coming in the second half. LeMar battled through two first-half fouls, causing her to only play 10 minutes in the first half. “She (DeHoff) didn’t say anything to me,” LeMar said. “She expected me to come out in the second half and play smart basketball, and that’s what I did.” LeMar shot 5-of-5 from the field in the second half and helped the Bison force 17 Comet turnovers. LeMar has started at point guard for the Bison through the first two preseason games and started again in the season opener. DeHoff said LeMar has big shoes to fill with the Bison’s former point guard, Katie Birkel, graduating last year. “When your players change, it allows your offense to change,” DeHoff said. “Our players have learned if (LeMar) gets the rebound in the game, then the rest of us are going to run out wide, and if we do that Brooke is going to find us.” Keena said LeMar is the fastest player she has played with and expects the offense to have a good mix when it comes to the tempo of the offense. The Bison will continue its transition on offense and look to keep its dominance on the boards at 6 p.m. next Thursday when they travel to Bangor, Maine, to play the University of Maine.
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THE SPECTRUM | NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY | THURS, NOV. 14, 2013
Jesus came offering LIFE and life more abundant. But today, religion, even Christianity, has created for many, anything but this. The JESUS Dialogue is a DIFFERENT kind of event that takes an honest look at the person of Jesus, what he taught, and the difference between following a religion versus following a person.
E E R F T! N E EV
What others have said... “I am enthralled by the luminous figure of the Nazarene.” – Albert Einstein “I know men and I tell you that Jesus Christ was no mere man.” – Napoleon “A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others . . . it was a perfect act.” – Mahatma Gandhi
November 15–16, 2013
“Jesus is the most influential life ever lived on this planet” – Historian Kenneth Scott Latourette
Presentation 1: Repenting of Religion Presentation 2: Why Think This is True Presentation 3: Why So Much Needless Suffering Presentation 4: A New Way
“Even those who have renounced Christianity . . . have not been able to create a higher ideal of man and of virtue than the ideal given by Christ of old.” – Fyodor Dostoyevsky “The things he says are very different from what any other teacher has said” – C.S. Lewis “I am a historian, I am not a believer, but I must confess as a historian that this penniless preacher from Nazareth is irrevocably the very center of history.” – H.G. Wells
7–9 p.m. each night
NDSU Harry D. McGovern Alumni Center 1241 North University Drive Fargo, ND 58102
“Christ teaches that God is love . . . Religion can be the enemy of God. It’s often what happens when God, like Elvis, has left the building. – Bono
The history of Christianity reveals that the teachings of Jesus “have not been tried and found wanting. They have been found difficult and left untried.” - G.K. Chesterton
For More Information Call: 701-391-9131 www.jesus4skeptics.com