DUHAWK SPORTS Here’s the 411 of everything you missed over J-Term,
VALENTINE’S DAY Ways to celebrate Cupid’s holiday without being cliché,
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February 11, 2016 — Vol. 94, Issue 8
Duhawks du service in New Orleans by LOUISA PAVLIK| staff writer
On Jan. 23 at 3 a.m., a group of sixteen Duhawks met in the Keane parking lot to begin the sixteen hour drive to New Orleans, LA. The students who participated in the trip were Allison Bentz, Shannon McQuillan, Anna Sweeney, Heather Everding, Luis Sanchez, Tessa Botka, Emily Erickson, Jacob Formella, Louisa Pavlik, Nicole Pleggenkuhle, Allegra Johnson, Kayla Barnes, Monica Vallejo and Mary Sutarik. Loras staff members Lynn Gallagher and Patti Burgmeier also came with the group. Only 10 people originally were planning to spend their J-Term break in New Orleans with the remaining six people listed planning to trek to Camden, NJ. However, the massive Winter Storm Jonas that pummeled the East Coast with snow brought the two groups to work together down south. The group stayed at one site together for the majority of the week, getting dusty from the constant sanding of drywall which required masks to avoid breathing it in. Arrival at Camp Hope couldn’t come fast enough after driving seventeen hours in the vans. The group was greeted by Walt, a volunteer who runs Camp Hope by cooking meals from scratch and tending to the needs of groups who reside there. The food included a make-your-own pizza night, being a group favorite, as well as the much-anticipated Cajun Night. “I had such a good time. I learned so much about Cajun food,” junior Tessa Botka said. That Sunday offered sunshine and tourism throughout the famous New Orleans French Quarter since volunteer work did not begin until Monday. Low, colorful buildings lined each street with quirky voodoo stores and daiquiri shops sandwiched side by side. Shiny decorations of green, purple and gold were woven all around Bourbon Street and the surrounding area in anticipation of Mar-
photos submitted
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Even after 10 years, it’s crazy to see how much still needs to be done.
Tessa Botka
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Junior who attended service trip
Participants of the J-Term service trip pose for a photo in New Orleans. di Gras. Spotting Sandra Bullock in her own backyard as well as eating the deliciously crisp and fluffy beignets while live music played were among that day’s highs. When Monday approached, the group was ready to head to the St. Bernard Project’s Headquarters to receive background on the continuing devastation of Hurricane Katrina. “Even after 10 years, it’s crazy to see how much still needs to be done,” Botka said. “Our Americorps volunteer director said it’s going to be thirty more years of recovery.” Lynch Learning Center staff member Lynn Gallagher was kind enough to share her thoughts on spending January 23- 29 in New Orleans, LA: "It is unbelievable to imagine that after 10 years, there are still survivors of Hurricane
Katrina who are waiting for their homes to be inhabitable. The St. Bernard Project has partnered with various volunteer organizations to ensure those individuals have homes to return to. Loras students witnessed, first hand, the devastation of the 9th ward and the work needed to return it to its former state. Kudos to those students who worked tirelessly to help bring a family home." The work from Monday to Friday proved a bit more difficult to catch onto than anticipated. “Mudding,” or as most of the students called it “spackling,” wasn’t nearly as easy as the Americorps volunteers that managed the site made it look. Sanding the walls to smoothness was important for the family who would soon live in the home the Duhawks were working on. Senior Luis Sanchez proved to be a great student-leader
with tips on the worksite. His background in construction and willingness to help the other students definitely made the work go more smoothly. The students worked hard but still found the ability to have fun and make jokes, forging bonds that will last beyond the combined 34 hours spent in big white vans and the week working in close proximity. Patti Burgmeier and Lynn Gallagher were simultaneously fun and supportive staff members to go on the trip, keeping the students laughing and reflecting on the importance of the volunteer work. Allison Bentz and Kayla Barnes, who was the leader of the group originally planning to go to Camden, worked together to make the trip flow smoothly with lots of giggles and meaningful experiences in the New Orleans community.
India: The ultimate in culture and history by AVA LALOR| executive copy editor
During J-Term, a group of 24 students and two professors were given the opportunity to study eleven and a half hours across the globe in the country of India. In the months before the trip, the expectations dreamed about were nothing in comparison to the actual country that the group experienced firsthand. Between the culture, the history, and the people, a new perspective was placed before them, one that will likely affect them for the entirety of their lives. The trip started on Jan. 4, the first day of J-Term. After two seven-hour flights and a five hour layover in Frankfurt, Germany, they finally arrived in Delhi, the capital of India. Smog was the first culture shock they encountered as one could see the haze it created down the hallway in the airport. Besides the air, Delhi had so much to offer. They visited mosques and temples, mausoleums and museums in Delhi and throughout the entire journey. Since the class focus was on Gandhi, the group went to the Gandhi Smriti, which is where Gandhi lived the last 144 days of his life before he was assassinated on the grounds. With the building transformed into a museum and the grounds dedicated as a shrine, it was both an informative and an emotional site. Next, the DuHawks took the bus to Agra, home of the famous Taj Mahal. While this mausoleum was impressive with the intricate marble inlay and the precision of the entire grounds (only a 2% error), this 400 year old monument was only one of the many Mughal structures they were awed by everywhere in India. Agra also gave them the wonderful opportunity to visit Sheroes Café, a restaurant that employs acid attack survivors. Before
photos by AVA LALOR
the trip, many in the group were completely unaware of this horrible problem in India. The women they met at Sheroes Café had a beauty of their own as they were able
to look beyond their scars by empowering themselves through their work and pursuit of their dreams. From Agra, they drove a few hours to
catch the train that would take them to Rathambore National Park, the tiger preserve which is home to many other Indian animals such as the sambar and spotted deer, crocodiles, a variety of birds including peacocks, antelope, wild boar, sloth bears, and langur monkeys. Between two safaris, the group was able to see all the animals either up close or at a distance. That night at the hotel, they even witnessed a traditional Indian song and dance. The group then drove to Jaipur, one of the more modern cities in India. Here they visited one of the famous forts, the Amber Fort. Of all the sites visited, many agreed it was continued on page 2
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The Lorian Feb. 11, 2016
India: J-Term provides memories and lessons to all
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their favorite. Between the elephant ride up to the fort, the intricate painting along the walls, and the room of mirrors, they couldn’t help but love every moment of it. Jaipur also led them to the Monkey Temple which felt like a scene from the Jungle Book. Lastly, they flew to Ahmedabad, the southernmost stop during the trip. During those six days, they centered their focus on Gandhi by visiting the Gandhi Ashram, the community of equality he founded and lived at for many years. They also met with Fr. Prakash, a Jesuit priest who has worked to peacefully instill interfaith relationships in Ahmedabad, specifically after the massacre in 2002. While Muslims and Hindus have lived in the same country for hundreds of years, their history is not without conflict. They were fortunate to visit Fr. Prakash as only four days later he would be leaving India to work as a missionary in Lebanon to help with the refugee crisis. He also invited the group to say mass with him at the
Mother Teresa Ashram Home for the Sick and Dying Destitute where they talked with two of the Missionaries of Charity as well as met some of the men living there. Finally, on the last full day in the city, they were granted the opportunity to walk through one of the slums. Here they met with a group that works to educate and care for those living in this extreme level of poverty. However, the students were surprised to see that, despite the poverty, everyone was joyful. Overall, the trip to India was one of the most life changing experiences for many, if not all, in the group. These DuHawks experienced a different culture by walking through the streets, learning the history, and loving the people through their brief interactions. Yes, they got stares from many people because they were different, but they learned how similar everyone is. The culture was so colorful and tasteful that many said they would love to visit again. For now, they will have to be content with the moments they created during their fifteen days in India.
News
The Lorian
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Feb. 11, 2016
A ‘Knight’ to remember Loras celebrates Knights of Columbus suit up for annual auction and dinner to raise money for Dubuque charity by KENZIE ELSBERND| for the lorian
fun does not stop there, however- there is a surprise announcement awaiting those who What is a ‘knight’ to remember? A typiattend the auction this year. Intrigued? cal response would be something along the The auction will take place in the Pub at lines of a night spent with good company 6:15 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 26, and the dinover a meal or entertainment. While this definition describes a night to remember, ner will be held two days later at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 28 at Nativity Church on it doesn’t explain Alta Vista Street. what a ‘knight’ to reNo worries if you member is all about. This year’s event will cannot find the loThe Loras Colcation; the Knights provide all who attend, lege Knights of of Columbus are Columbus are getmale and female, a chance trained in escorting ting ready for one to experience the hearttheir auction winof their largest ners to the dinner. pounding auction and fundraisers of the As for the year: “Night with a bidding for the ultimate Knights who were Knight.” This annuprize: a five-course meal up for auction, al event, which has and delightful conversation names will be anbeen going on for nounced as we get with a Knight of the winner’s over a decade, raiscloser to the moes money for a local choice later this month. mentous event, so charity important to check back with the group’s cause. The Lorian in a This year’s event will provide all who attend, male and female, a chance to experience couple weeks. It truly is a ‘knight’ to rememthe heart-pounding auction and bidding ber, so mark your calendars and do not miss for the ultimate prize: a five-course meal out on being part of a Night with a Knight: and delightful conversation with a Knight where memories, charitable work, and good of the winner’s choice later this month. The cheers come alive.
interfaith harmony by ANNEMARIE ELSINGER| staff writer
Interfaith Harmony Week (IHW) is a worldwide event that promotes awareness and communication among people of religious and nonreligious backgrounds. Better Together, the interfaith group at Loras, tabled the first week of February to spread awareness and love for people of various backgrounds. There were posters and buttons to encourage people to choose loving others for their differences rather than fearing them. Their buttons state, “I choose LOVE over FEAR” and can be found in the Campus Ministry Office. IHW is important because accepting others is crucial to global relations. If humans continue to fear those different from them, the world will continue to judge and hate others. Senior and foreign exchange student Sara Alfayoumi gave a presentation about the struggles she faces as a Muslim in Syria and América. “You know people, you understand them, you love them and there will be absolutely no war but peace,” Alfayoumi
explained. When people start to understand why people hold their beliefs, it helps bring to light the similarities between humans. It helps people to see that Christians, Jews, Atheists, Agnostics, Buddhists, and Muslims are all similar. It helps people to acknowledge that everyone is different, and that knowledge makes for richer and more fruitful friendships and conversations. If everyone was the same, the whole world would be bored out of their minds. If everyone was the same, there would be no room to grow into more accepting and loving individuals. Loras, in partnership with Clarke University and the University of Dubuque, will be holding an Interfaith Leadership Conference from 8:30am-6:30pm on Saturday, Feb. 20. If you are interested in attending or learning more about the conference please contact Peace and Justice Coordinator Stacia McDermott, at Anastacia. McDermott@loras.edu.
CAB brings laughs to campus with Kel
‘Good Burger’ actor Kel Mitchell visits campus, meets students to kick off 2nd semester and series of CAB events
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by BRENNAN PIVNICKA| staff writer
This past Friday, Feb. 5, the College Activities Board hosted the appearance of actor, musician, and comedian Kel Mitchell here at Loras. From the start of the event, Mitchell brought down the house with his impressive combination of witty remarks, humorous quirks, and overall hysterical mannerisms. From hilariously illustrated backstories to improvised interaction with the audience, Mitchell provided a rousing hour and a half of side-splitting entertainment. Kel Mitchell has been active for over two decades now. Though a master of many fronts, he is perhaps best remembered for his performances in several Nickelodeon television shows. Having kicked off his career at an early age, Mitchell’s first wellknown role was as Ed, the energetic but dimwitted fast-food employee featured in the “Good Burger” sketch of the comedy program “All That.” He later had a starring role as Kel Kimble in the hit sitcom
Kel made my childhood a little more enjoyable.
Broderick Hooker
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attended Kel Mitchell event
photo by BRENNAN PIVNICKA
“Kenan and Kel,” and subsequently appeared in several cartoons and live-action movies, including a full-length motion picture adaptation of “Good Burger” in 1997. Currently, Mitchell is involved in the
Legacy Symposium deadline nearing
by ASHLEY PUDIL| news editor tations as an option. Any type of presenAs the spring semester begins, the Leg- tation, from creative writing recitations, acy Symposium committee is encouraging to musical performances, to study abroad students to mark their calendars for the presentations are welcome. The 2016 Student Awards Luncheon third annual Loras Colwill take place at the lege Legacy Symposium symposium, as well as a on Wednesday, April 27, The symposium film festival at nighttime. 2016. encourages students There are many forStarted as part of the mats available to present to present their college’s 175 year anniverin, including posters, sary, this event is an opresearch, creative oral presentations, and portunity for students and projects, service creative displays, and all faculty to share their scholtrips, and honors majors and years are welarly accomplishments with come to present work at the Duhawk community. projects. Starting the symposium. Classes are canceled for this year, the The deadline to subthe entire day on Wednessymposium is mit work to the commitday, allowing all students, faculty, and staff, to atincluding internship tee for review is Wednesday, Feb. 24. To submit tend presentations, view presentations work, go to www.loras. posters, and experience as an option. edu/legacysymposium, the creativity in the Loras follow the links at the College community. bottom of the page, and The symposium encourages students to present their research, fill out the form. Submissions will be selectcreative projects, service trips, and honors ed and presenters will be notified within the projects they have worked on over the past next few weeks. Any questions regarding year or fall semester. Starting this year, the submissions can be sent to Legacy.Symposymposium is including internship presen- sium@loras.edu.
new Nickelodeon show, “Game Shakers,” playing the part of a rapper and superstar named Double G. Mitchell’s appearance on Friday night was met with great enthusiasm by all stu-
dents attending. For many, it was a chance to see and meet a figure from their bygone younger years. “Kel made my childhood a little more enjoyable,” said sophomore Broderick Hooker. Loras College is greatly honored by Mitchell’s visit, and hopes to see him again sometime in the near future. Some other large events presented by Loras this month include CAB’s sold-out movie night at Mindframe theatres, Year Experience’s trip to the Kalahari resort in the Wisconsin Dells, and free tickets to the Dubuque Fighting Saints hockey game.
Want to write articles for the Lorian? Ever wanted to see your name in print next to a story you wrote? The Lorian is always looking for new writers. Sophomores and older get paid! If interested, let us know!
Cassandra Busch Cassandra.Busch@loras.edu
Ashley Pudil
Ashley.Pudil@loras.edu
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The Lorian
Opinion
Feb. 11, 2016
Republican caucus filters candidates O
n Monday, out on top: Rubio, Trump, and Cruz. Feb. 1, the Rubio topped out at Roosevelt Iowa Caucuses with roughly twenty-four votes took place. I was at separating him from Trump, who Roosevelt Middle came in second. Although Rubio School where 16 won several caucus sites across precincts of Dubuque the state, Cruz stood strong to win County were located for the Iowa Republican Caucus. Cruz the Republican Caucus. winning out over Trump led many The Iowa caucuses to see a blow to Trump’s campaign, were still the first in who stayed silent on Twitter for over the nation to vote, and fourteen hours. Trump was silent until haley meyer all eyes were on Iowa the controversial statements made by to see what would Cruz’s campaign concerning Dr. Ben happen. Record numbers were reported Carson came out. Although this may across the state, Dubuque County being have been seen as a ploy to get more no exception. The votes for Cruz, the voters previous caucus that who potentially changed With the caucuses took place in 2012 saw their minds on Carson 695 people come out could just have easily there was also an to vote; this year there moved their votes to Trump ending of several were 1,610 votes cast who pushed for a new campaigns. at Roosevelt Middle caucus. Whether or not School. this actually happened is After the votes were unknown. Trump came in counted there were three that came second with 5,000 votes separating him
MORE FROM MEYER
Smashing the 2nd semester slump CASSIE’S CORNER
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etting back campus pretty great. into a routine I went on the J-Term trip to Italy after a long this year, and it reopened my eyes to break at home isn’t the amazingness that is Loras College always easy. If you’re and the community that inhabits anything like me, it. As we get farther in our college you probably spent education, most of us end up going way too much time to classes with the same small group on Netflix and in of people that share our major. Not your mom’s kitchen. a bad thing whatsoever, especially However, now that if you’re an English major (English majors are pretty cool, not that I’m Cassandra I’m back at school, I’m trying to get back biased or anything). However, that Busch into the routine of also means that we can be pretty executive classes and work limited in our exposure to other editor and actually doing students and faculty. something with my life. Some days it My J-Term was a philosophy sounds downright unappealing, but course, and while I readily admit that then I realize that I only have three philosophy is NOT my forte, I’d like semesters (minus a week and a half) to think that I gave it a pretty good and I better make the most of it while shot. Even if the class wasn’t my I still have the chance. And if you’re usual interest, I did get to meet and younger than me and are thinking get to know a lot of really cool people that this doesn’t apply to you because that I hadn’t previously spent a lot you still have plenty of time with from a of time at Loras… variety of majors. think again. Excuse Also, hanging out We decided that the cliché, but it will with Father Joensen flash right before and Mick (a Loras this semester, we your eyes, and before security guard), as are actually going you know it you’ll be well as Professor to emerge from the in my shoes, already Kohlhaas and two little comforting missing the lights of members of the wider the Rock Bowl, the Dubuque community, cocoons that we strange but oddly was pretty fun too have created and comforting smell of (but don’t tell them re-enter civilization Hoffmann, and going I said that. Gotta up for seconds (and keep up that super at Loras College. thirds and fourths) cool, disinterested in the caf, especially persona). This when they have that group of people one amazing mac & cheese. So please, reminded me how lucky I am to be at no matter how old you are, heed my Loras, where J-Term trips to Italy, message. advanced gen eds mixing majors My roommates and I made a and disciplines, and a small enough promise to ourselves the night that campus to enjoy lots of friendly and we returned from home back to good familiar faces are not things that ‘ol Byrne Oaks. We decided that this students from every school can enjoy. semester we are actually going to Therefore, I am going to do my best emerge from the little comforting this semester to really show how cocoons that we have created and grateful I am by taking advantage of re-enter civilization at Loras College. the amazing (and often free or lowThis means that we will return to our cost) opportunities that Loras offers, yesteryear selves: taking advantage of and bursting outside of my selffree sporting events, attending plays created junior bubble. And I think and musicals, going to CAB events everyone could benefit from leaving (such as the Kel Mitchell comedy their comfort zones and taking part in show we attended last Friday night campus. If you do, you’ll end up with in the ballrooms), eating in the ACC, a lot more memories than just being etc. Last semester it was too tempting able to remember the plotline to every to go from apartment to class to work episode of FRIENDS (although this and back again, always in a rush and is a great show and you should still not being able to truly appreciate the totally watch it.) And so, get up, get life on Loras campus. And wow, is our out, and do things!
from Cruz in the state of Iowa. With the caucuses there was also an ending of several campaigns. Mike Huckabee had vowed several months ago to end his campaign if he didn’t end up in the top three in Iowa. He finished near the bottom and suspended his campaign before all the precincts had even been reported. Santorum suspended his campaign the morning following the caucus after also finishing near the bottom. The most recent candidate to suspend his campaign was Rand Paul, who finished fifth in the state. Political experts speculate that he ended his campaign in order to focus on his race for reelection in the Senate. Although the Iowa Caucuses are over, there are still many primaries coming up. The Republican field will continue to narrow down leading up to the
With November only being nine months away, strategy is being discussed every day, and the drive to win back the White House is strong among conservatives, regardless of which candidate they support at this point in the election process. national convention where the nominee will be selected. With November only being nine months away, strategy is being discussed every day and the drive to win back the White House is strong among conservatives, regardless of which candidate they support at the this point in the election process.
Restorative justice offers a peaceful way to find healing by ANNEMARIE ELSINGER| staff writer
care for one another, especially the most vulnerable. Deacon Bill believes hat is restorative justice? we have a duty to help ex-offenders It is justice that focuses on reenter communities in order to the victims and community create more functioning members of harmed by a crime. It is not punitive society. We do not need more people justice which simply punishes committing crimes, so this program the criminal. Restorative justice uses support circles and mentors rehabilitates both parties to help to aid ex-offenders. It gives them a heal the community from the offense. support system to fall onto when they When the U.S. imprisons people, the are struggling, rather than falling back victims do not receive real healing or onto criminal behavior. payment for their losses; however, An ex-felon who attended the circle if offenders paid back their debt, meetings said he would either be dead apologized, or or back in prison built a relationship if it were not for with those they Deacon Bill’s Peace activists all hurt, they would support. He said over the world use have a better this program was techniques like peace understanding of the best thing that the terrible scars happened to him circles to help bridge they created. after prison. the gap between Peace activists If more people offenders and victims. all over the world positively support use techniques like ex-felons instead peace circles to of avoiding them, help bridge the gap between offenders there will be a decline in crime, as and victims. Deacon Bill Hickson, the previous offenders will find new Jail and Prison Ministry Coordinator, life and rehabilitation in restorative uses restorative justice and support justice measures like peace circles. systems to help repair damages caused They will learn how to have healthier by crime. relationships and function more Deacon Bill came to Loras last week positively in the greater world. For to discuss his ministry. His motivation more information on Restorative is imbedded in Jesus’ words, “I was in Justice or to join a support circle prison and you visited me” (Mathew contact Deacon Bill at dbq060d2@ 25:36). Jesus asks us all to love and dbqarch.org.
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Editorial staff assistant sports editors: executive editor:
MEGAN TEWS
CASSANDRA BUSCH
NATALIE DROESKE
features editor: SAMANTHA VATH news editor: ASHLEY PUDIL sports editor: DREW BRASHAW assistant features editor: ELLEN J. HORST
executive copy editor and web editor:
AVA LALOR co-advertising managers:
ANNA SWEENEY EMILY MAST moderator:
TIM MANNING
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The Lorian
Features
Feb. 11, 2016
by BRENNAN PIVNICKA | staff writer
Nothing short of astronomical expectations surrounded the theatrical release of the long-anticipated Star Wars: The Force Awakens this past December. Announced following the purchase of Lucas film by The Walt Disney Company in 2012, the latest installment in the iconic space adventure film series had been in talks and production for several years. Directed by renowned filmmaker J.J. Abrams, who also helmed the sci-fi pictures Super 8 and Star Trek, it marks the newest entry in what is perhaps the most popular franchise in film history. The movie takes place roughly thirty-some years after the events of the original Star Wars trilogy, in which the galaxy is threatened by a regime
known as the First Order, a remnant of the once-powerful Galactic Empire. Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), a dark side Force user and agent of the Order, has become obsessed with the eradication of the Jedi, and his subsequent attacks result in the mysterious disappearance of Jedi Master Luke Skywalker. The story follows the actions of Finn (John Boyega), a rogue stormtrooper who wishes to flee the horror of the First Order, and Rey (Daisy Ridley), an orphaned desert scavenger who longs for something more than her harsh environment. Aided along the way by hotshot pilot Poe Dameron, service droid BB-8, Rebel Alliance general-turned-smuggler Han Solo and his Wookie first mate, Chewbacca, the two of them embark on an incredible interplanetary quest to deliver a star map containing the secret of Skywalker’s location to the freedom fighters of the Resistance. High-flying adventure ensues as the unlikely heroes must battle the military might of the First Order, as well as their own personal fears, to accomplish their goal. In addition to the new actors, most of the original cast of Star Wars returns for this installment, with Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Anthony Daniels, and Peter Mayhew all reprising their roles from the first trilogy. In addition,
the film hosts bit parts with several other notable actors, including Andy Serkis (The Lord of the Rings), Warwick Davis (Willow), and Max Von Sydow (Flash Gordon). In an effort to recreate the look and feel of the original Star Wars films, The Force Awakens utilizes an impressive array of practical effects and sets to create several imaginative places, vehicles, and creatures, which populate the screen at every turn. The movie’s whimsically epic soundtrack was scored once again by veteran Star Wars composer John Williams. Due to the film’s impressive performance, Star Wars: The Force Awakens is still playing in most theaters. For all fans of classic adventure and storytelling, charter a starship and head to the nearest cinema for a return to the long-awaited galaxy far, far away...
The Lorian
Features
Feb. 11, 2016
7
THIS V-DAY, AVOID THE CLICHE: by NATALIE DROESKE | staff writer
The stores go from Christmas trees to red and pink hearts. Flowers and chocolate go on sale. And people begin to proclaim hidden true love; well, we hope. But it’s the same mushy, gushy romantic antics every year and it’s time for a change. So this year, try a little something different on Valentine’s Day to avoid the stereotypes of the Hallmark holiday and really enjoy the day of love, single or taken. 1. Be everyone’s valentine! Instead of ravaging for a winter romance or not speaking to anyone but your significant other on the fourteenth, spread the love. Your parents, siblings, grandparents, roommates, and friends would all love to hear from you and about how much you care about them. So send a letter, card, or a text just to let someone know you’re thinking about them. 2. Fancy dinners can be duds. Expensive candlelit dinners complete with five courses and tuxedo-dressed waiters are so overrated these days. And honestly, what college student can afford them? You can talk just as long and have just as much fun at a Subway or HyVee Market as you would somewhere where you’d drop a few $50’s. In fact… 3. Ditch the traditional date night altogether. Do something more exciting. Try heading down to the Mississippi River Museum for the Sherlock Holmes Clocktower Mystery exhibit, hiking the Mines of Spain, or a new culinary creation you found online. Make a list of things you’ve always
wanted to know and research them. Make a photo collage of all the important people in your life. Craft day something. Whether you’re with friends or your boo, spice it up and try something new. 4. Save the bank. Why spend money on fancy cards that will get recycled or flowers that will die when you could put some love and effort into making your own V-Day tributes free of charge? Pinterest is a great resource for card designs and crafting is a great way to relax and relieve stress. And come on, will you ever actually reach your maximum number of prints? 5. Don’t forget the man upstairs. Treat Valentine’s Day as a second Thanksgiving to thank God for all the love He’s put in your life. Never hurts to score some points with the Big Man, plus the holiday is on a Sunday this year, so while you’re there... Whether you’re spending the day solo, with some buddies, or a special someone, there are plenty of ways to liven up the tired traditions of stereotypical Valentine’s Day. All in all, the day is what you make it. Shut down those crappy sappy Netflix movies and show someone how much you care.
EMBRACE THE CHEESE
An Autumn Day
CHILI-NO-BEAN DIP by JASMINE SRONKOSKI | staff writer
A fiery horizon on top of an orange hill;
by LIZZY HOFF | staff writer
Scent of coffee in the early morning;
You’ll need an oven safe casserole type dish to cook this dip.
Apple picking with friends in a crowded orchard, sweaters galore! Pumpkin carving with a special someone, giggling at the feel of
gooey insides, collecting seeds for an afternoon snack;
Ingredients: 1 package of cream cheese (8 ounces) 1 can of Chili (with no beans, or if you prefer, with beans) Cheddar cheese (shredded) Scallions (optional) Tortilla Chips (I prefer scoops) by NINO ERBA | staff writer
There are some films that just reek of what’s known as “Oscar bait”. These films are usually helmed by a renowned director, have big names, and deal with a topic that’s the equivalent of a dangling carrot. It’s usually a biopic about a famous person or event. From the above criteria, “Bridge of Spies” qualifies as Oscar bait. The good news is that it’s pretty good Oscar bait, even though in a field of unusually good competition, it doesn’t stand a chance. The films strings together a series of events. It’s the height of the Cold War, and insurance lawyer James B. Donovan (Tom Hanks) has the unenviable task of representing in court Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance), a spy working for the Soviet Union. Donovan successfully prevents Abel from meeting death, despite it being a rather unpopular decision. However, things get increasingly dangerous when U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers (Austin Stockwell) is shot down and is held captive by the Soviet Union. To make matters even worse, the Berlin Wall is being erected, and American economics student Frederic Pryor (Will Rogers) is caught on the wrong side of the wall. Donovan now has the unenviable task of flying into Germany after a proposal to swap Abel for Powers is floated, but Donovan also wants Pryor, and things get really tricky. Nothing warms the hearts of the Academy members like a biopic, if we’re to believe the cliché. In particular, it’s almost too easy to rake in the nominations when you channel the halcyon days (if you can call them that),
where the biggest fear anyone had to worry about was a nuclear war. The relative stability of domestic life, the ornate suits, the belief in our country: one might feel nostalgic about the period if we didn’t factor in all of the obvious baggage that came with it. As for the film itself, it’s a well-made, well-acted piece. The acting is solid, with Rylance getting a nomination for his surprisingly good performance as a Soviet spy who’s more human than you would initially expect. The Coen brothers co-wrote the script with Matt Charman, but unlike other Coen movies of the past, this one doesn’t imbue itself with the weirdness you’d expect from the Coens. Steven Spielberg also keeps a sure hand in the director’s chair, although that is nothing particularly new. One flaw the film struggles to overcome, however, is the density of the material. For many of us who grew up outside of the Cold War, the events taking place on screen may seem like the part of history class you might’ve glossed over. The story is told well, but making it more digestible might have made it more accessible. Then again, this movie is perhaps targeted at adults old enough to either remember these events or know them by heart. “Bridge of Spies” is now available on DVD and Blu-ray, so you are be able to watch the Oscar-nominated film before the ceremony. One thing’s for certain: This movie is weak tea compared to some of the other feats of cinema that have graced the Best Picture field. Nonetheless, there are worse films to choose from than this Cold War drama.
IN THE SHADOW OF WAR, ONE MAN SHOWED THE WORLD WHAT WE STAND FOR
Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spread the cream cheese evenly across the bottom of the pan, then layer the can of chili on top of the cream cheese. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (as much or little as you desire). Cook for 30-35 minutes and let cool for 5 minutes. Top with chopped scallions and scoop some of this deliciousness into your mouth.
And that’s a little cooking with Jazz!
11 T hings I Hate About Valentine’s Day by ELLEN J. HORST | assistant features editor
1. Giving adults stuffed animals – we are no longer children. Don’t get me wrong, I still sleep with my childhood bear, my CHILDHOOD bear, but I don’t need a new thing to haul around each time I move res halls. 2. Those damn conversation candy hearts. THEY TASTE LIKE CHALK AND SAY THE SAME THING TO EVERYONE. 3. Paper hearts littering the surface of the earth. Those better at least be on recycled paper. 4. Photo collages on social media. Yes, dear, I would love to share our “special day” with 14 million other people around the world. 5. Red food coloring – Why? Dye? They’re similar because no. 6. Reserving spaces in restaurants. That seat has my name on it, get up. Again, we are ADULTS. You think planning ahead makes you deserve food faster? False. 7. Heart-shaped pizza. This growing phenomena is an outrage. You do realize you are basically just taking out a WHOLE SLICE of pizza to make that shape, right? The shape that isn’t even close to anatomically correct. 8. Cheesy pick-up lines. I love cheese as a noun, hate it as a verb. 9. Sparkles. Enough said. 10. Originality.. where is it? Why does everyone say the same thing, give the same candy and eat the same crappy heart-shaped food? 11. No one knows the real reason behind the day… look up Saint Valentine, fools.
An apple pie in the oven, the aroma of sweet cinnamon fill the halls; Sounds of family laughter ring through the house; The chill of nature, the warmth of a fire; Wool socks make no sound on hard wooden floors; Books aplenty, tea in hand after a long-day’s fun.
by SAMANTHA VATH | features editor
As far as movie-lovers go, those specifically partial to musicals tend to be the most protective of their cult favorites. For this reason, the newest television trend — live re-makes of classic musical films — has been met with some resistance. Starting with “The Sound of Music” - which fared pretty well with both the lead, Carrie Underwood’s name recognition and powerful voice - the trend continued with musicals like “Peter Pan Live!” and “The Wiz Live!” with star power coming from crowd favorites like Christopher Walken, Queen Latifah and Mary J. Blige. Ratings varied on the live premieres, but the concept has done well enough that television producers aren’t done yet. Recently, Fox joined the fun and premiered the live re-make of beloved classic, “Grease.” which earned 12.2 million viewers on its opening night . This came in second only to the first live musical, Miss Underwood’s “The Sound of Music.” Singer and actress Vanessa Hudgens lit up the stages (there were twenty one in total) as Rizzo. Broadway and film singer (including “Les Miserables”) re-creating the head T-Bird in a way that still paid homage to John Travolta’s Danny. Surprise appearances from celebrities like Joe Jonas, Mario Lopez and Boyz II Men entertained throughout. But overall, Julianne Hough stole the spotlight as Sandy Young — dancing, singing, and cheering her way into our hearts. The added scenes for Sandy really helped make her character more dynamic than the original, in my opinion, making her more relateable and sympathetic. Because of this, her transformation at the end was less out-of-nowhere and genuinely substantive. The actors, songs, dances, costumes and sets all exceeded my expectations for a live show. So if television producers want to keep airing live versions of my favorite musicals, I say go right ahead. The purists may not enjoy them, but I certainly will.
Opinion
‘Whiteout’ heating up the Oscars
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by NINO ERBA| staff writer
ast month, one of the few things that made January worth bearing came to light: the announcement of the Oscar nominations. Sadly, amidst the various surprises, something stood out glaringly. For the second time in a row, the thousands of Academy members failed to nominate a single actor or actress of color, and the only director of color was once again Alejandro González Iñárritu. We know that Hollywood loves sequels, but this is more than ridiculous. As a response to the first whitewashing, the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite went viral and deservedly so. You can’t give every acting nomination to only white people and not think that the public wouldn’t notice. Now, as a white person, I understand that I run the risk of “whitesplaining” this issue. However, as an avid moviegoer, this is something that not only I can feel angry about but everyone should. For the more obvious reason for anger, all it takes is looking at two of the most prominent black/race issue films of the last year, “Creed” and “Straight Outta Compton.” The near-shutout of both films for nominations has eerie similarities to that of “Selma” the quite excellent MLK drama concerning the fight that resulted in the Voting Rights Act. However, both of last year’s films have the dubious distinction of not only getting one nomination each, but the people who were nominated were white! Clearly, the Academy lacks self-awareness when it comes to optics. (For “Creed,” it was Best Supporting Actor; for “Straight Outta Compton” it was the writers for the original screenplay.) Not only does this almost-complete whiteout by the Academy make them look bad, it’s insulting to the intelligence of the audience. Does the Academy truly believe that the people they chose for nominations are more worthy than the myriad of other performances displayed last year? Best Supporting Actor, in particular, is truly unforgivable. This year’s field is weird, if only for the fact that Tom Hardy, while usually intense, got a nomination for “The Revenant” despite sporting some form of American accent. What makes it beyond hope is the fact that Idris Elba, who gave a powerful performance in “Beasts of No Nation,” was shut out despite not only getting both Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations, but also winning the SAG award! (Though, he won this award after the Oscar nominations were released.) Let me put it another way: a documentary called “What Happened, Miss Simone?,” which followed the rise and fall of legendary singer Nina Simone, and was also released by Netflix (though “Beasts” also scored a theatrical run thanks to film company Bleecker Street), scored a nomination for Best Documentary, so the Academy isn’t completely averse to Netflix. And yet, “Beasts of No Nation” got nothing. Not even a nomination for Elba, despite the wide acclaim he’s received for that performance. THAT’S why #OscarsSoWhite matters. However, it’s been circulated that the Academy will double its share of women and minority members by 2020. But despite this, how much more condescension from the Academy can we take? I mean, the event will likely be fun (and if for nothing else, watch it just to see Chris Rock lacerate the Academy for this crap). However, if the Academy still manages to pretty much give people of color the cold shoulder, then the boycott won’t be a fluke. The Academy doesn’t have a monopoly on giving actors and other filmmakers recognition for their work in movies. The worst thing it can do is make a mockery of itself by removing much of the prestige it has built up over the years, simply because its members won’t recognize the achievements that people of color accomplish in movies.
The Lorian
Feb. 11, 2016
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Mind the gap: Crossing the pond to study abroad F
or those of place). you who don’t I am currently in the settling in know me, my period. You all remember the day you name is Julie. I am a showed up to campus and had time junior this year, and to find your way around. You had the I am spending my chance to explore Dubuque and are semester in England. constantly doing so. Well, that’s kind Currently, I’m writing of what I’m doing. to you from the bed Unfortunately, I am only here for at my homestay about four and a half months, which in Teddington means that I have to fit the four years (yes, this is a real other students have in college into Julie white place). I am located four months. approximately 30 It’s more difficult than you minutes southwest of Central London might imagine. Not to mention the (by train). London is as amazing as meaninglessness of a dollar here. If people describe it to be and better. It you plan to travel to England, make will exceed all expectations; you have sure PLAN is the operative word. my word. On the other hand… This column is going to be real. I This is England. This is all of will tell you the Europe. I have a positives and whole continent at my This column is going to negatives, dos fingertips…thanks to and don’ts of mobile phones and be real. I will tell you studying abroad easy to book plane the dos and dont’s of and traveling tickets. Two nights studying abroad and the European ago, I planned my first traveling the European continent. trip. Amsterdam. It’s Promise. important to do a lot continent. Promise. I have always of research before you dreamed of living go. When it comes to in London. It planning, book your stems from a deep love of William flight and accommodations as far in Shakespeare and The Beatles. Both advance as possible. The earlier you have had significant roles in my book, the cheaper it will be. I just relife, so I got really lucky. And I read that, and I sound like my mom… ended up here: St. Mary’s University or a travel agency, but it’s all true. Twickenham of London (also a real Traveling is a learning experience.
JET-SETTING WITH JULIE
Traveling is a learning experience. Expect to get lost, and be thankful for whatever you see on the way. It could be your favorite part of the entire trip. Expect to get lost, and be thankful for whatever you see on the way. It could be your favorite part of the entire trip. Be open to people and ideas. Remember that you probably won’t know these people forever, but you will be traveling with them. No matter what, it’s not about who you are with, but where you are. Forget what people tell you because this is a time for you to be truly selfish. I know. It’s not what your parents would advise, but they won’t be there holding your hand. It’s time to grow up real fast. Studying abroad will teach you so much. I have learned more in the past two weeks than in my first two years at Loras. Traveling, whether it’s to another country or to visit your friend at University of Missouri, is good for the soul. So if you want to study abroad, or just live vicariously through my stories of triumph or tragedy, follow me. Keep jet-setting with Julie!
Clinton’s campaign is pitting Democrats against each other I’ll ‘Grant’ You That
Charlie Grant
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ince when do Democrats attack one another on universal healthcare? The question was first asked by then Senator Hillary Clinton during a campaign stop in Cincinnati in 2008. Today, Bernie Sanders supporters are asking the same
exact question. In recent weeks, as her lead has slowly been chiseled away, Hillary Clinton has done just what she preached against in 2008. At a recent campaign stop in Iowa, Secretary Clinton said that Bernie Sanders’ single payer health care plan will “never, ever come to pass.” Her campaign has also spread a wealth of misinformation and fear amongst Democratic voters. They wish you to believe that under Senator Sanders’ plan: the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will be dismantled, Medicaid and Medicare will be destroyed and that your taxes will rise drastically. In reality, under Sanders’ plan the ACA will be replaced by a much more comprehensible and reliable plan, Medicaid and Medicare will be expanded and while a progressive tax will be implemented, the average American will save $5,000 a year on health care costs. Why won’t she go further? Why doesn’t she support a single payer system (like Sanders’) as she did in the 1990s? Where has the strong support that she had as First Lady for universal healthcare gone? Do her ties to large pharmaceutical companies have anything to do with it? After all, during the first six months of her campaign she accepted $160,000 from them. That’s more than any other candidate,
Republican or Democrat. Yet, she claims the industry is one of her biggest enemies. Perhaps that’s where her passion for universal health care went. Her campaign’s knee jerk reactions to Senator Sanders’ successes in Iowa, New Hampshire and across the country are apparent. Is this surprising that her campaign has resorted to the use of such tactics? No, not really. You can say it’s establishment politics as usual. Can you blame them? Yes and no. Yes, because her campaign’s blatant distortion about Sanders’ plan is completely disingenuous and is deceptive to voters. No, because if you were the presumptive
nominee for three years leading up to now and saw your lead slip away, you might react similarly. Secretary Clinton, the moderatecentrist-liberal-progressive who gets things done, shamelessly seems to be doing exactly what she preached against in 2008, attack a fellow Democrat on health care. Debate is healthy; by all means she can elaborate on the distinctions between her and Sanders’ plan, and she should, but she shouldn’t go around distorting other plans and using cheap tactics to fear voters into believing things that simply are not true.
Letters to the editor are welcomed! Do you have an opinion on something and want to write a “letter to the editor?” Do you have more questions about an article you read? Corrections or clarifications? A differing opinion about an issue brought up that you want to be heard? We want your input. In every published Lorian, all members of the Loras community are able (and encouraged) to write a “letter to the editor.” We encourage differing opinions, so take the time, speak your mind and let us air your thoughts. It’s not just the writers for the Lorian that have print-worthy material; you do, too. To submit a letter, please e-mail Cassandra Busch at cassandra.busch@loras.edu. In addition, everyone is welcome to submit story ideas to The Lorian. If you or an organization you are a part of is doing something noteworthy, or wants to get news out about an upcoming event, we also accept articles from guest writers as long as we are told a few days in advance.
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Community
The Lorian Feb. 11, 2016
Dear Transfer Students ... by ADRIENNE PEARSON | staff writer
Dear transfer students, welcome to the nest. I mean that. You really are welcome here. If you don’t believe me, let me tell you a few things about my experience. I spent my entire first year of college at Loras College under the direction to do so by my mother. I was resentful of this and later transferred out to the school I had originally planned to attend, but wound up back here. So yeah, I get how it feels to be a transfer student. You could say that I got lucky. I got to experience the freshman year at the school I plan to graduate from. I got to learn who my people were and who to find and where to go when I want to know more. However, I also understand that transition from the familiar to the unfamiliar. Things weren’t the same coming back here. The buildings changed, the faculty changed, and a whole lot of people changed. My experience away shifted my perspective in ways
I still don’t understand. My place had shifted and I didn’t expect that. These first few weeks are going to be rough. I can sugar coat it however the admissions department would like me to, but that’s simply not it. Transferring is hard. Finding your place is harder. Cliques are already formed and the organizations lobbied their new members in the fall. Trust me though, the wariness is okay. The resilience will build, and you’ll understand why people feel the way they do about this community. Finally, I need to tell you that you’re here for a reason. I can’t tell you what that reason is or that you’ll fall in love with it, but I can guarantee that being a member of the Loras community will change you. The experiences you’ll come across will establish your values and will lead you in whatever direction you need to go. You are not forgotten.
Green Words by LOUISA PAVLIK | staff writer
A column centering on sustainability & college kids by a sustainability intern: Alas, second semester has begun. There’s lots to think about, and there will soon be lots to do as classes pick up. As the sustainability student worker on campus, I’m going to try to make sustainability practices, ideas, stories and facts part of what everyone thinks about. Climate change is affecting the world we live in and the people we share it with. Rather than succumb to sulking in bed while pondering the doom of the human race via global warming or angrily shouting facts about how the hamburger my mom tries to feed me is contributing to deforestation, animal cruelty and a slew of other catastrophes, I’m going to try to do something about it. What better format than The Lorian to continue to spread the culture of sustainability on campus? (Yeah, it’s printed on paper. Paper that came from a tree. A tree that was cut down. A tree that can no longer process the exorbitant amounts of CO2 that enter the atmosphere every day). Too much? At least we’re thinking about it. That’s the aim -- to think critically about the resources we use every day and to learn more about how we can help keep our earth balanced. That being said, I’m going to share some wisdom I just read from a lovely book called “No Impact Man by Colin Beavan”. I would recommend it even if you are a novice when it comes to environmental issues. In the book, Beavan makes the argument that
individual and collective actions are NOT mutually exclusive. What does this mean to people who want to try to live more in balance with the earth? It means that the naysayers who say that you do no good in shopping at thrift stores, biking to work or cutting down meat intake are wrong. Such naysayers argue that global warming is a collective action problem -- they say that lifestyle changes like going vegetarian or buying local are a metaphorically insignificant drop of water in a now highly acidic ocean. People who say that are likely too lazy to change their own habits to try to hinder further environmental catastrophe and thus want to convince others that they are incapable of making a difference. To be honest, I sometimes feel like I can’t make a difference. Beavan argues that all we can do is try. Will you resolve yourself to being powerless and remain in anxiety over climate change? Or, will you at least be the person to try to make a difference? Should you answer yes to the latter question, I challenge you to get further involved in sustainability efforts on campus/in Dubuque. There are a million avenues to take to environmentally serve the common good. The beauty of collective action, Beavan argues, is that it takes multiple individual actions to make a difference. You never know who you can inspire with your actions or engage with your words. Hopefully in this first issue, I’ve engaged you with mine. Let’s try to make Loras happier and more sustainable.
confessions of a loras trashman by BRODERICK HOOKER | staff writer
Last semester I had an on campus job that stretched my patience, zapped my energy, and made me shake my fists at the heavens. Every Saturday and Sunday morning I would hoist myself out of bed at 4:30 a.m. to clean up after the messiest and most wasteful creatures in the known world -- college students. I would hike to the Information Center to pick up the keys for Beckman and Binz no matter how inclement the weather was. Snow, negative temperatures, you name it. I recall once wearing pajama pants under my jeans to keep my legs warm. I started on the girls’ floors, which always took the longest. This was part of the reason the job had to be done so early, so I hopefully would not run into any girls having to use the restroom. But occasionally I would, and it usually had a minimum of awkwardness. But one weekend in particular it seemed everyone and their mother had to use the bathroom before dawn. An inordinate number of boys used the bathrooms on girls’ floors -- suspicious. But this is barely worth mentioning, only minor inconveniences compared to the horrors I witnessed. For one, it seemed that the bags meant for sanitary napkins would collapse only at their goriest, but as this is a biological function, it is easily forgivable. The girl’s floors rarely gave me that much trouble, but the boy’s floors, especially in Beckman, were sometimes war zones. The walls on the second floor of Beckman were stripped bare, and exit signs were knocked out. It gave me the impression of a dystopian hellscape. Somehow, within the course of a Saturday, one trashcan could easily be overfilled enough for two or three garbage bags. The floor was sticky, more often than not. People have somehow gotten the idea that it is just fine and dandy to throw away open containers still filled
with liquid. I saw a sink stuffed with vegetables. I saw a stall door completely bent one weekend and subsequently removed. That same toilet was later stuffed with cheese balls and excrement at the same time. A paper towel dispenser was smashed. One morning, I came into the second floor bathroom of Beckman to find that the trash cans were missing. Gone. Somebody took them. The most common type of trash I encountered might explain all of these other hijinks. You guessed it -- empty alcohol containers. Look, I don’t really have an issue with college drinking, but if it makes you do things that make my job harder, we have a problem. I don’t want you to walk away from reading this with the impression that it was all bad, though. The solitude gave me countless opportunities to be alone with my thoughts. I started composing haikus. I would write encouraging messages or draw funny pictures on friends’ dry erase boards. Once, in Binz A-level, on Halloween as I recall, I walked into the dregs of what might have been a wonderful night. Three sleepy friends at 6 a.m., giving each other a hard time. This was not my favorite job, but I do not regret it. I would urge anyone reading this to please change your habits to make the custodial staff’s jobs easier. If you see them, thank them. Do your part. Break down boxes, pour out drinks, space out when you dispose of your garbage, and keep bodily fluids to a minimum, or at least in their proper places. How anybody can clean up after college students and retain any respect for them is beyond me. Remember, you are future leaders, politicians, lawyers, scientists, business people. Have fun, of course. But don’t look back on your college days and realize you were an asshole.
Back at It by KYLIE DEWEES | staff writer
As the second semester begins, it brings about a new beginning, new aspirations, and that’s right, new goals! After being off of our usual routines from school during the holidays, it’s easy to fall into a funk of not working out and eating junk. Yes, we all do it at times, but consider this your kick in the rear to get back at it! There’s no time like the present, so why not start now by reading this article. As we get into routines and repeat the same action for a certain number of days, we tend to form habits. The habits can be positive or negative, but during the holidays we tend to form more negative health habits rather than positive. In this article, we will get after ways of breaking the bad and building the good. Step number 1: Identify what you do on a regular basis. Is it that espresso in the morning with the extra pump of sweetener? Maybe the afternoon pop with dinner, or even staying up too late at night which makes you crave sugar more and less likely to be active the next day. Knowing what you do on a regular basis will help you know which things to cut back on or what to add in. Step number 2: Decide where you want to go this semester, and take actionable steps to get you to that end goal. Maybe you want to drink more water this semester, get more sleep, lose a few pounds, or gain some muscle. I have good news for you: you CAN do it! The only person in your way of
becoming the person you want to be is you, so be your own best friend and support yourself in your goals by doing small things each day to get you closer. When you break down your goals to what you can do on a daily basis, they will be closer and closer within reach with each day. I would encourage you to set a few deadlines for these goals and make sure they are measurable. Remember that article I wrote on goal setting? You put it up on your refrigerator right? No? Well that’s ok because I’ll give you a quick low down on how to set some quality goals. Make sure they are S.M.A.R.T.! This stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely! Do this, and I have no doubt you will achieve anything you set your mind to. Step number 3: Go get it! Now that you know what you want and you’re ready to start a positive routine for yourself, hustle, grind, and go get it! Your sacrifice today will translate into your success later. Then once you get that goal, tell me about it! I love hearing about people accomplishing what they set their minds to and who knows maybe I’ll even feature you in my next article. Dream big kids, and get back at it. Your certified personal trainer, Kylie DeWees NASM-CPT Email me with questions or comments at kylie.dewees@loras.edu.
Mind & Soul
with
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by MARY VERCOLLONE | for the Lorian
TRISH The Lorian is continuing a column by Tricia Borelli, director of counseling services. Here she will answer student questions concerning anything that relates to keeping it together while doing this crazy thing called college. Send questions or comments to Ms. Borelli, Loras Box 100, or to the e-mail address tricia.borelli@loras.edu. All names of those sending questions will be kept confidential.
Valentine’s Day
Dear Trish,
It’s baaack. The dreaded Valentine’s Day is here, and I am, yet again, single and alone. I try to tell myself it doesn’t matter, that I’m young and that not having a significant other doesn’t mean I will never have one. The truth is, it sucks being single on the most romantic day of the year. Will I ever find my soul mate and be the lucky recipient of chocolates, dinner and a romantic movie paid for by someone other than myself? Thanks, Single and Alone Trish says, Well, the good news is that you’re not alone in being alone. A recent article in Huffington’s Post said that more than 100 million unmarried people in America are having more trouble than ever finding love this Valentine’s Day. Here are some things to think about that might be getting in the way of you having a healthy and intimate relationship with another person. First, watch your expectations and consider leaving the rose-colored glasses at home. The Cinderella story is not realistic, so stop expecting or comparing love to this and other fairytales. Not waiting for your prince does not mean that you can’t find love that is extraordinary, however. Create your own definition, and don’t compare it to the definition of others. It’s okay to get some help from the movies. Just remember that many of those movie stars are in dysfunctional relationships themselves. It is easier for all of us to play the part than actually live in the real world. Second, take an honest hard look at yourself. What is the baggage that you may bring into a relationship? Who were your role models growing up that taught you what a healthy relationship looks like. I don’t mean the ones where they never fight, have all the same interests and are constantly professing their love for one another either in person or on social media. I mean the ones where they do disagree but agree to be partners no matter what and find solutions that work for both of them. Ones where they are free to be independent and have their own friends and unique interests but still enjoy each other’s company more than anyone else. The ones where they communicate about the things that don’t work or hurt in their relationship and make a commitment to do better. Those are the real ones. Have you seen any or know of any? If not, this is a good place to start. Find some and associate with people who can teach you how to love. Lastly, love yourself. Work to improve what you don’t love about yourself before expecting that a relationship will work. Whether it’s looks or personality or purpose, make a plan to change what needs to be changed and work towards it. Stop complaining and spending your time vying over the love that others share. Remember what we all learned years ago. If you don’t love yourself, how are others supposed to love you? It’s the truth. Signed, Trish
Christ the King 5:15 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9 p.m. Wednesday 5 p.m. Sunday
Feb. 11, 2016
Student Leadership Summit 2016
TIPS
MASS TIMES
The Lorian
ADORATION St. Joseph’s Chapel 1 to 4 p.m. Monday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday thru Friday
On Jan. 1, Loras College took nine because, rather than just discussing our students, four missionaries, and one col- personal relationships with God, it also lege chaplain down to Dallas, Texas for gave us tools to help others deepen their the FOCUS national Student Leadership relationship with God. I left SLS with a Summit (SLS). This five day conference burning zeal to know more about God, had a life-changing impact on many of and with a clearer idea of God’s misthe 3,000+ college students that attended, sion for me,” said sophomore Stephanie including those from Loras. Harpenau. SLS is a leadership conference for “The conference was all about teachCatholic college students geared toward ing young people the basic roadmap for teaching students what it means to be a holiness. It was about fostering our own disciple of Jesus Christ, first by following love of Jesus Christ and teaching skills Him more closely and second by build- to others to know and love him. At SLS, ing up disciples for His eternal kingdom. I saw the vibrancy of the youth of the The three main areas that church hearing that they the conference focused don’t need permission on were prayer, authentic “The conference was to spread the gospel befriendship, and leading cause they have been all about teaching small group Bible studies. commissioned in bapyoung people the Each of the nine stutism to do so,” said Fadents from Loras were ther Dennis Miller. basic road map for impacted by the conferStudent Leaderholiness. It was about shipThe ence and grew in both Summit takes place fostering your own their spiritual lives as well every other year, alteras their leadership skills. love of Jesus Christ nating with the other They come back to cam- and teaching skills to FOCUS national conferpus this spring ready to set ence, SEEK. SEEK is a others to know and Catholic conference for the campus on fire with love him.” the love of Christ and His all types of college stugospel message. Here is dents, no matter where what some of them had to you are in your faith! say about it: Last winter, Loras brought over 75 “SLS was a life-changing experience students to SEEK 2015, making sure that I will never forget. It complete- all the J-Term students still got back in ly re-directed my focus from myself time for their first class. In January 2017, to God. Thank you FOCUS for allow- SEEK will be happening in San Antonio, ing me to go on SLS and see the world Texas. We hope to take over 100 students through God’s eyes,” said sophomore next year and you can register early at Kylie DeWees. SEEK2017.com. You won’t want to miss “SLS was different from other retreats it!
If I Jumped Off a Bridge, Would You? by ELLEN J. HORST | assistant features editor
We always used to hear that peer pressure is bad and that just because someone else, someone “cool,” did something doesn’t mean that we should follow. But what if what we heard was wrong? What if we figured out how to use peer pressure as a positive? 41,149 suicides were completed in 2013, 1 every 13 minutes. In 2015, 1.3 million adults, age 18 or older, attempted suicide (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). These numbers are HUGE, and are the reason why we need peer pressure. How do the rates of suicide and peer pressure link? Why am I telling you peer pressure is good? Because peer pressure is also what spreads the word about suicide prevention and the breaking down of the stigma around suicidal thoughts, depression (a factor highly correlated with suicide) and mental illness, it raises the rate of people who will get help and support. Knowing how peer pressure works, and the prevalence of peer pressure on young people today, the media, our peers, and social media are ways in which we can spread a positive message and awareness about topics like suicide
that are engulfed in stigma. The media and the rapid spread of information in our current day and age is what enables us to reverse these stigmas, show our support for those around us silently or vocally suffering, and change the rates of not only suicide, but so many other important issues and topics in our world today. So, with the advancement in technology, the ability to spread positive messages, and the abililty to post messages anonymously, why is it still difficult to speak our minds on difficult topics? Because it is personal. Sharing stories on topics that are surrounded by negative stigmas IS scary and hard, but once you hear a personal story being shared, it’s a lot easier to share your own. On Thursday, February 11th, Breaking the Silence hosted a Day of Silence -- a day dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention. There were events throughout the day, ending with a personal story and reflection in the Arizona room at 5pm. It was at this event that I shared my story. I jumped. Will you?
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The Lorian
Sports
Feb. 11, 2016
What you missed... It’s been a long break but we’re back! Here’s what you missed while we were away: Men’s soccer The men’s soccer team finished the season just one victory shy of claiming the NCAA Division III National Championship. The Duhawks dispatched DePauw and Wheaton on their way to Loras’ fifth Final Four appearance since 2007. Jonah Jacke, son of Green Bay Packers Hall-of-Famer Chris Jacke, scored the game-winner in the semifinal match to push the Duhawks past topranked Calvin and send them to the National Championship game against Amherst. Loras scored first in the title game, but Amherst took the match and the NCAA Championship by a score of 2-1. To go along with his team’s national runner-up finish, head coach Dan Rothert earned his 14th Iowa Conference Coach of the Year award this season.
Men’s cross country After earning its second consecutive Iowa Conference title, the men’s cross country team claimed an at-large qualifying bid to compete in the NCAA Championship in Winneconne, Wis. Sophomore Mason Tope earned All-American honors at nationals, pacing the Duhawks to a 14th-place finish. Tope finished the race 30th, and sophomore Timothy Sevcik finished 63rd in a field of 278 runners.
Men’s basketball Since December, the men’s basketball team finished their nonconference season and dove into conference play. The Duhawks are tied for second in the IIAC with a 6-4 record, 11-10 overall. Despite two losses to crosstown rival Univ. of Dubuque, the Duhawks secured thrilling victories over other opponents such as Luther and Coe. The team’s success is a result of a true cohesive effort under the leadership of senior Mirko Grcic and junior Justin VanWambeke.
Women’s basketball The women’s basketball team has experienced an exciting season thus far. During the nonconference season, the Duhawks defeated two nationally ranked opponents in Wash.-St. Louis and the Univ. of Chicago. This tough competition helped prepare Loras for conference action as the team is tied for second in the IIAC with a 7-3 record, 14-7 overall. The Duhawks were forced into overtime twice this season, both times against the rival Spartans from up the street. Each team secured a victory leaving them deadlocked 1-1. Only four games remain in the regular season for the Duhawks.
Wrestling The numbers in the win/loss columns don’t look good for the 2015-16 Duhawk matmen, but it has been a season of significant individual growth and achievement for
Wrestlers staying positive, focused
photo by CHRISTINA NEY/LORAS COLLEGE ATHLETICS
Despite a disheartening 1-12 record in dual meets this season, you won’t find anyone in Randy Steward’s wrestling room hanging his head. “I decided before Christmas that you can either be negative--because it’s really easy to do--or you can say ‘hey, we’ve got to do more,’” Steward said. “We’re not happy about losing, but you still try to take positive things from it and move forward.” The Duhawks’ most recent, and perhaps most heartbreaking dual meet loss came last Thursday in the AWC against cross-town rival University of Dubuque. Sophomore Dayton Olson and first-year Sam Schuler scored pinfalls for Loras, and Senior Malcolm Watson and first-year Quinn Gilliam added a pair of decisions, but the Spartans held on for the victory, 24-18. “I’m disappointed for the kids,” Steward said. “It’s a cross-town rival, and the freshmen have figured out that it’s a pretty big deal, and they wanted to do well. I’m disappointed for them more than anything else.” Olson brought the home crowd to its feet in the closing seconds of the first period of his 125-pound match, pinning UD’s Marcus Ingalls to give Loras a 6-0 lead to open the dual. Olson was dominated throughout most of the period, but utilized one of his favorite holds to secure the fall just two seconds before the horn. “I love cow-catchers,” Olson said. “Once I know I have that in there and I get him over,
he’s done. It felt great to get the fall.” “We keep talking about [Olson] trying to be a sparkplug,” Steward said. “Doing what he did tonight, getting the pin, that’s being a sparkplug. The place went nuts, the kids were fired up. It was a great thing.” Unfortunately, Olson’s spark failed to ignite a fire for the Duhawks, and UD wrestlers claimed victories in the next four bouts. Sophomore Michael Triplett dropped a 6-1 decision to Dubuque’s Stephen Rosenburg at 133 pounds, and junior Evan Weaver lost to Jeremy Melendez, 9-5. A pair of first-period pinfalls over Colin Griffin and Jimmy Davis gave the Spartans an 18-6 lead halfway through the meet. Schuler brought the Duhawks back to life, earning a third-period fall over Alek Aragon in their 165-pound match. Like Olson, Schuler was behind in his match before grabbing the pin. “Sam Schuler started out the year tough, and it’s been a struggle,” Steward said. “For him to come out and get a win like that in a close match, it’s a big deal. Hopefully it’ll give him some confidence. It should.” Schuler’s fall made the score 18-12 for the Spartans and kept Loras’ hopes for victory very much alive, but an 8-1 loss by firstyear Chris Malone at 174 pounds steepened the Duhawks’ climb. A neck-and-neck triple-overtime loss by 184-pound sophomore Awais Arain all but locked up the dual for the Spartans. Needing pins in the final two bouts to tie the team score and send it to criteria, Watson and Gilliam both earned convincing decisions, but the Duhawks’ rally came up six points short. “I was looking for bonus points, trying to help my team out,” Watson said of his 10-4 victory over UD’s Cosmo Halwix at 197 pounds. “I was fighting until the end, but he was running from me a little bit. I’m happy for my win, but I wish our team would have won.” Far from dejected, the Duhawks are keeping their eyes focused squarely on what’s ahead. “The season isn’t over,” Watson said. “The second you go into regionals everybody has a zero-zero record. We’ve got to beat some guys who beat us earlier in the year. We’ve got to bring it back to them and work harder than we ever have. “Excuse my language, but we’ve got to work our asses off.”
Loras wrestling. Topping those individual accomplishments is the selection of longtime Loras coach Randy Steward to the National Wrestling Coaches Association NCAA Division III Hall of Fame. Steward, who has spent 22 seasons as the Duhawks’ coach, will be inducted on March 10.
Men’s and women’s swimming & diving At the Grinnell Invitational on Saturday, the Loras swimming and diving programs’ athletes posted numerous seasonal bests as the men went on to finish sixth and the women took eighth. Freshman Mac Faldet finished the 100m breaststroke with a time of 57.91 sec., overtaking a Loras College school record. The men were able to snag 11 of the top-15 spots while the women grabbed nine.
Men’s and women’s track & field The Duhawk track and field program competed at the Division III Keck Invite, hosted by Illinois Wesleyan in Bloomington, Ill., on Saturday, Feb. 6 with many positive outcomes. The women took fifth place overall, with three top-five finishers. Senior Bree Power and junior Emily Day both posted career-best times in the 60m dash and 3000m run, respectively. Junior Elizabeth Brandenburg also reached a new personal record in the pole vault with a height of 3.74 m., demolishing her previous record.
The men’s performance was highlighted by their 10 top-five finishers, and second place final ranking. Freshmen Jack Carroll and Nathan Kimbrell both posted personal bests in the 1 mile, Carroll taking the event. Sophomore Gerrand Moody posted the top time in the prelims and finals for the 60m hurdles, setting a Loras all-time record by placing himself as the 31st overall in Division III. The Loras Track and Field team will next take on the UW-Platteville Invite this Saturday, Feb. 13.
Men’s volleyball In their second season as a program, it is clear to see the men’s volleyball team has experienced much growth. After securing a 3-0 victory in their season opener, the Duhawks have improved to a 5-6 record on the year. A highlight of the season was winning three of their four matches at the Loras Invitational, hosted on campus in January. The team has already begun conference play, but they have yet to collect a win over an MCVL opponent.
Men’s tennis
The Loras men’s tennis team has only had one match thus far in their spring season in which they fell to the Judson Baptist Eagles, 9-0 on Sunday. Most notably in the match, freshman Riley Michel took five of 12 sets in third singles and four of eight sets in second doubles with partner Neil Kane.
Track-and-field teams racing to the top
Several Duhawks start off strong while breaking personal records at Keck Invitational by MATTHEW MARTER| sportswriter
The track-and-field team competed Kimbrell running an 8 second lifetime PR last weekend in the Keck Invitational at in the indoor mile with the time of 4:31.2. Illinois Wesleyan University where the Sophomore Mason Tope and Senior John men finished in a close second overall Paul Sevcik finished first and second in the while the women took fifth. Regardless, men’s 5,000 meter run with times of 15:22 there were a number of personal records and 15:35. In the 60 meter hurdles, sophset as well as a new school record for omore Gerrand Moody broke the previous the men. school record of 8.44 seconds by a tenth On the women’s side in the field of a second, and he took home the win in events, junior Sofia Lyskanowski threw the finals of the hurdles. Finally, first year a huge PR with the mark of 10.27 me- Jack Carroll won the mile with the time of ters. This was her first throw over 10 4:23.85, the fastest on the team right now. meters as her best throw last year was “[It] has been going pretty well,” Carroll only 9.89 meters. First year Savannah said when asked about his season. “I’ve Nesvik also threw a PR of 9.53 meters. won two races out of In the pole vault, juthe three I’ve been in, nior Elizabeth Branand I’ve run two indoor denburg just missed personal bests already.” K eep training hard and the indoor school reDuring the J-term cord of 3.75 meters, don’t lose focus. Trust break, some of these taking first place with the work you’ve put in Duhawks traveled to a 3.74 meter vault. and trust yourself. Florida and got the It’s only a few inches shy of her All-AmerJack Carroll chance to see Olympians like LaShawn Merfirst-year distance runner ican performance at ritt train as well as talk the NCAA Division with them after pracIII Outdoors National meet last year as well. tices. She and junior Audrey Hooks went sec“They discussed mentality with us and ond-third respectively in the 60 me- how they train and prepare for races,” Carter hurdles as well. Other outstanding oll said. “I learned a lot just from talking performances from the Lady Duhawks to them.” on the track come from senior Brittnee “I’m personally aiming for breaking Powers and first year Allie Serres. Pow- 4:20 in the mile and an All-Conference ers had a lifetime PR of 8.03 seconds in finish in the mile.” He also added, “On top her 60 meter dash. Serres became the of anything else my coach expects of me.” fastest 800 meter runner on the team Finally, he had some words of encouragein her first 800 of her collegiate career ment for the rest of the team as the indoor with the time of 2:22.4. Junior Emily season dwindles down: “Keep training Day also ran a lifetime PR of 11:14 in the hard and don’t lose focus. Trust the work 5,000 meter run. On the men’s side, first year Garrett you’ve put in and trust yourself.” The coaches’ “Duhawks of the Day” at Hammond has continued to improve his marks in both the shot put and weight the Keck Invitational were Garrett Hamthrow. His marks of 11.75 meters in the mond for men’s field, Gerrand Moody for shot put and 12.63 meters in the weight men’s track, Audrey Hooks for women’s throw are both a meter over his perfor- track, and Elizabeth Brandenburg for mances at the Monmouth Invitational women’s field. The Duhawks compete this weekend at three weeks ago. Other exceptional performances include junior Nathan UW-Platteville on Saturday.
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Sports
The Lorian
Feb, 11, 2016
11
Basketball teams remain near the top of conference standings
Duhawks fall short in rival game against UD Spartans
Junior trio of McMahon, Obendorf and Cabrera provide spark during the remainder of IIAC season by FRANK FERNANDEZ| sportswriter
After completing a season sweep of the Coe College Kohawks in a 72-57 victory on Feb. 3, the Loras women’s basketball team returned home to take on their rival, the University of Dubuque Spartans. Earlier this season, the women took down the Spartans in overtime on the road. They looked to once again sweep a conference opponent and maintain their place near the top of the Iowa Conference standings. Early on, the contest was back and forth with neither team being able to open up much of a lead. The Spartans held a slim lead for most of the first half, thanks to the play of junior Emily Brinker. After exploding for 41 points in the first matchup between these schools, the junior tallied 26 points and six rebounds on Saturday afternoon. Her 3-pointer right before halftime left the Spartans with a 35-28 advantage at the break. In the second half, Loras continued to fight to grab the lead, but the Spartans would not give up that easy. Whenever the Duhawks would get within striking distance, UD would respond to maintain their lead. The poor shooting of the Duhawks did not help their cause, as they finished shooting 39 percent from the field and only 11 percent from behind the arc. This inability to get the ball in the basket hindered the offense throughout and left the Duhawks trailing as the fourth quarter loomed. In the final period, juniors Terese McMahon and Lori Obendorf combined to give the Duhawks their first lead since early in the game with a 6-0 run, good enough for a 52-47 advantage. McMahon was able to stretch the lead out to eight after a layup, putting the Duhawks within reach of their eighth Iowa Conference win. However, the Duhawk offense fell into a rut over the final five minutes of the contest and were unable to add to their lead. This inability to score allowed the Spartans to erase the deficit and take the lead with only 35 seconds left to play. With only one chance left to even the score, Coach Justin Heinzen put the ball into the hands of junior guard Kat Cabrera. Cabrera took the ball hard to the basket and earned a trip to the line after taking contact. The Arizona native calmly stepped up and knocked down both free throws to even the score, sending this contest into overtime. In the extra session, the Spartans were able to jump out to a lead
with six unanswered points following a McMahon layup. Trailing by four with under two minutes remaining, the Duhawks attempted to get back into the game via the charity stripe. Unfortunately, the women were only able to connect on one out of four attempts, adding to their lowly .680 free throw percentage for the game. Still behind with time winding down, the Duhawks resorted to sending the Spartans to the free throw line to preserve the clock. This would end up being their downfall, as UD buried seven out of eight free throws to put the game out of reach. They held on for a 71-64 overtime victory, dropping the Duhawks to 14-7 overall and 7-3 in the IIAC. Despite the loss, McMahon was able to set a new career high in points with 26. The Duhawks also saw strong performances from Obendorf who added 16 points, and Cabrera with 12. With only four games remaining on their regular season schedule, the Duhawks are tied for second place, behind Luther. “There aren’t many conferences in the country better than ours,” Heinzen said. “Our message has always been about development of consistent habits. When games are tight and situations tense, habits and tendencies take over, so we’re relying on our instincts and everything we’ve done the first 70 or so practices.” With only one game separating the two teams, these next four conference matchups will be huge for the Duhawks as they determine the seeding for the upcoming conference tournament. The women have struggled away from home, posting a 5-5 record away from the AWC, and they will have back-to-back road games starting this Wednesday. If the Duhawks can pull out those two contests, they will be sitting pretty as they head back to Dubuque to finish their regular season slate. “We’ll play wherever we need to and whoever we need to once tournament picture shapes up,” Heinzen said. “It’d be outstanding to have a home game in there though. I think positioning ourselves at the top of the league would be a tremendous gift to give to three seniors that have given a lot more to us.” On Wednesday, the Duhawks began their final stretch run in Waverly against the Wartburg Knights. The team will head to Storm Lake, Iowa on Saturday to face Buena Vista. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m.
photos by CHRISTINA NEY/ LORAS COLLEGE ATHLETICS
Returners and rookies rally going into postseason
Grcic and VanWambeke provide leadership and offensive force through the Duhawks’ final 4 games by MEGAN TEWS| asst. sports editor
Playing hard and together will be the this season. As a sophomore, VanWamkey for the men’s basketball program beke averaged 11.4 points per game. This as the end of the season approaches. season he ranks third in the IIAC with While there are some standout players, 20.1 points per game. He has recorded the cohesiveness of the team as a whole eight games of more than 25 points, inis what will bring the Duhawks success. cluding a 35-point performance in an 84Loras is currently tied for second in the Iowa Conference with Simpson, 61 victory over Luther earlier this season. just behind the University of Dubuque. The Machesney Park, Ill. product also Strong performances from returners, leads the conference in 3-point percentage as well as deep talent in the recruiting with a .486 clip from behind the arc. The class, has gotten the team to this point. combination of VanWambeke and Grcic is Even though the season is coming to a a force to be reckoned with. close with only four regular season conWhile these returners are providing ference games remaining, there is a lot great experience and leadership, there to look forward to from the Duhawks. is also a lot of talent to First on the list be seen from the recruitis a career accomment class. Freshmen Miplishment from seAs long as we play hard chael Mims and Demond nior Mirko Grcic. ad play together each George are virtually unWith an average of and every night, I think 17 points per game, stoppable. The duo find it is safe to say that we have a great chance the most success from Grcic is more than beyond the perimeter as of winning the leage. likely to reach 1,000 Mirko Grcic Mims shoots 40.9 percent career points this senior forward from the 3-point line and season. George 37.9 percent. Even As of Loras’ game though these players typon Saturday, Grcic is ically come in the game only 10 points away from the mark. He will be the first Du- off the bench, they make their presence hawk to join the 1,000 Point Club since known on the court and have become cru2008 and the 39th in the history of the cial elements to the team. program. Grcic ranks fifth in the conferAlthough these players have exhibited ence in scoring and third in rebounding standout performances, it is their ability with 8.3 boards per game. Although this to play as a team that is most important. is an incredible personal achievement, the Lake Zurich, Ill. native is more fo- The combination of their efforts has led the Loras to an 11-10 overall record, 6-4 cused on the success of his team. “It is a nice accomplishment, but in conference. In order to achieve Grcic’s my overall goal is to win a conference goal of winning a conference championchampionship. Right now I’m focusing ship, however, there is still work to be on winning our last four games and not done. worrying about my own personal stat “Right now we are trying play the best line,” Grcic said about reaching 1,000 basketball we can play before the conferpoints. ence tournament starts. As long as we play This statement is a perfect example of the leadership Grcic brings to the court. hard and play together each and every His skill and knowledge about the game night, I think we have a great chance of of basketball has been a crucial influ- winning the league,” Grcic said. The Duhawks travel to Storm Lake, ence for the Duhawks this season, but he is not alone in terms of Duhawks Iowa on Saturday to face Buena Vista afwith experience. ter topping the Beavers 82-76 earlier this Junior Justin VanWambeke has been season. a dominant offensive threat for Loras
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The Lorian
Feb. 11, 2016
Sports
Men’s volleyball team shows signs of growth in 2nd season A strong team effort contributes to the Duhawks’ success by MEGAN TEWS | asst. sports editor
After a tough inaugural season in their 2015 campaign, the Loras men’s volleyball team started their second season in the best way possible: victory. The Duhawks opened 2016 with a 3-0 win on the road against the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) on Jan. 15. The team currently sits at a 5-6 overall record on the season. There is already evidence of growth as the team finished 3-20 last year, and head coach Jeremy Thornburg is more than pleased. “I think that we have made growth from last season to this season and it shows, not just in our win/loss record, but in our overall level of play. Our team has bought into the hard work needed every day to be better than the day before, and that is our goal,” Thornburg said. This hard work has definitely been showing, and the stats prove it. The Duhawks are not even halfway through the season, and they are already performing better than last year. In 2015, the Duhawks averaged 8.62 assists, 9.20 kills and 1.71 blocks per set. The team’s attack percentage was .110. In 2016 the team is averaging 9.98 assists, 10.71 kills and 2.16 kills per set while recording a .215 attack percentage. The cause of this success is truly a team effort as each member of the
Duhawk roster plays an important role. Due to the nature of volleyball as a team sport, coach Thornburg explained that any number of his players could stand out this season. “I think that our team will continue to show its depth, and with our leaders from last season and new ones developing and emerging, anyone could make an impact any given night,” he said. Thornburg is right as not one but several Duhawks have made their way into the spotlight this season. As for the returners, Dylan Ross has been a dominating force in the front row averaging 1.90 kills and 0.85 blocks per set. He tallied a season-high 14 kills in a victory against Calumet College of St. Joseph (CCSJ) earlier this season. Another strong player at the net is sophomore Dawid Kasprzak. In a match against Lakeland at home in February, Kasprzak recorded his 100th career kill after just 1 ½ seasons of collegiate play. Returning setters Shayne Marquez and Danny Krasich continue to impress with their 5.29 and 4.05 assists per game, respectively. While these Loras veterans are providing leadership and experience for the team, the recruiting class has been a source of new talent. Freshmen Greg Kinney and Ryan Galvan lead the Du-
hawks in attacking with Kinney’s 2.25 and Galvan’s 2.03 kills per set. Freshman Alfredo Lopez has already broken the Loras all-time record for service aces in a match with seven against IIT. He leads the team with 0.58 aces per set. The combined contributions of the team has led Loras to victories over IIT, CCSJ, Benedictine and Briar Cliff so far this season, but there is still a long way to go. As conference season gets underway, the Duhawks have a tough schedule ahead of them. Not only are they facing their opponents from last year in the Midwest Collegiate Volleyball League (MCVL), they will play some new competition as well as six teams joined the MCVL in 2016. Nevertheless, coach Thornburg is hopeful for the rest of the season. “Our conference is deep and we have to show up every day to compete and have the opportunity to win matches. Our goal is to get better every day and we hope with that goal, we can make some waves in the MCVL,” he said. The Duhawks will travel to Naperville, Ill. on Friday to face North Central in conference action.
Duhawks cap regular season, prepare for Liberal Arts Championship by AARON BROEGE| sportswriter
The men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams have wrapped up their regular seasons and are preparing for the Liberal Arts Championships on Feb.10. The Loras men have garnered a fairly successful season, finding key victories in the Simpson Dual as well as the Knox Dual. The team will look to carry the momentum of their significant season into the Liberal Arts Championships. Seniors John Maevski and Zach Benson look to continue their successful performances in the past meets and pull out solid results for the Duhawks. In addition to Maevski and Benson, freshman Mac Faldet, who has made a huge impact in his first year with the team, looks to carry his success into the championship season. He collected two first place finishes at the Grinnell Invitational and had many impressive performances before that. Expect the men to make a big splash at the Liberal
Arts Championship. The women’s swim team has enjoyed their fair share of success this season as well, chalking up a couple key wins for the team and establishing themselves as a consistent competitor. Sophomore Kim Breaux has had a solid season for the Duhawks, recording several finishes within the top five in competition. The teams’ success has had a big help from freshman Kasey Jacobsen who has not only posted multiple first place finishes in several competitions, but was even named the Liberal Arts Conference Swimmer of the Week for the week of Jan. 19. Jacobsen has been a key newcomer to the team and will be a key contributor to the Duhawks’ success in the Liberal Arts Championship. Seniors Heather Black and Elise Amo look to lead the women in a successful run at the Liberal Arts Championships. Last year’s Liberal Arts Championship was a solid run for the Duhawks as they recorded four school records
that may be challenged yet again this year. Two of those school records belong to senior Zach Benson and Junior Ike Casey, who look to take down their own records and cap off even stronger performances. Zach Benson has rewritten three school records in his time at Loras, and he looks to rewrite more in his final year with the Duhawks. Both the men’s and women’s teams finished the 2015 Liberal Arts Championship in fifth place, and look to finish just as well if not better in this year’s competition. Strong performances from multiple athletes on both the men’s and women’s side will help the Duhawks push for success to cap off the season. Head coach Ben Gill and assistant coach Ann Foust will lead the men and women to Principia, Ill. to take on a strong field of competitors and finish the season on a high note.
DREW’S VIEWS
Super Bad C
am Newton’s touchdown celebrations have been the topic of much conversation this NFL season. Some folks think Newton’s flamboyance is ruining football (thus, America), and others say we should let the man Drew Brashaw have his fun. The criticisms of sports editor Newton’s celebratory antics have run the gamut from innocent curmudgeonry to thinly-veiled racism, and there’s been no shortage of opportunity for his haters to hate; Newton scored a lot of touchdowns this year. Newton’s response to his critics? “If you don’t like it, don’t let me score.” The Denver Broncos took Newton’s advice on Sunday night. The league’s top defense pounded the MVP like an oversized drum, and kept pounding all the way to a 24-10 victory in Super Bowl 50. He didn’t get to dance, he didn’t get to hand any footballs to the millionaires in the front row (who wastes a Super Bowl ticket on a little kid, right?), and he didn’t get a chance to pretend there was a big red “S” beneath his jersey. I don’t care about Newton’s dancing (although “dabbing” has an entirely different connotation in Denver than it does in the Carolinas), and I think it’s great when he gives some kid a football for his dad to sell on Ebay, but that Superman thing…it’s never sat quite right with me. My doubts were confirmed Sunday night. There was nothing super about Newton on Super Bowl Sunday. On the field, he looked more like Bizarro, Superman’s utterly-inept, otherworldly double. He showed flashes of the super powers at his disposal, but displayed complete incompetence in wielding them. Above all, Superman is super heroic. It’s kind of a prerequisite for being a superhero. On Sunday night, with all of his teammates and fans counting on him, Newton was a coward. He was a coward when he made no effort to recover the football after having it stripped by Von Miller (again) in the fourth quarter. Superman would dive for that ball like it was baby on a subway track, or a ticking nuclear weapon that needed to be rushed into outer space before it destroyed everyone he cared about. When the time came for Newton to be brave, he said, “No thanks, I’m good.” Even more un-heroic than his give-up on the loose ball, even more cowardly, was the way Newton carried himself after the game. All it took was one bad day for “keep pounding” to turn into “keep pouting.” Even superheroes fail sometimes. But when they do, they take responsibility for it. They own it, and then get right back to work punishing evil-doers. Newton had the opportunity to do just that in his postgame presser. He could have stood tall, chin up and arms akimbo, and answered Jimmy Olson’s questions like a professional. Instead, he folded like a stolen laptop. Perhaps Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib said it best after the game: “There ain’t no Santa Claus, there ain’t no Easter Bunny, there ain’t no Superman.” Additional takeaways from Super Sunday: - The Peyton Manning/John Elway comparisons should stop. Elway put that team on his shoulders and carried it to Denver’s first championship in the ’97 season. The Broncos claimed Sunday’s title in spite of their quarterback. - Just like the Broncos learned two years ago when they were blown out by the Seahawks, defense still wins championships. - Josh Norman is the real deal. - Who was that gorgeous woman who sang the national anthem so beautifully? I thought they were going to have some freak in a meat dress do it. - Did you see the look on little brother Eli Manning’s face at the end? That’s the look of a man who just lost all of his bragging rights forever.
DREW’S VIEWS
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