Binder for nov 20

BASKETBALL

ZAK KNUTSON

Knutson sits down for an exclusive interview with The Lorian Page 7

Men’s and women’s teams are off to fast starts Page 10-11 November 20, 2014 — Vol. 93, Issue 8

Campus Climate Survey assesses students’ feelings on safety

by SEABELO MONTWEDI | news writer

At the beginning of November, Loras launched a Campus Climate Survey as an attempt to not only ensure safety on campus, but also to understand the different issues that may threaten students’ safety.

This survey came in response to the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault’s recommendation to conduct a climate survey.

“It’s not a mandate … and Loras (decided) that this would be a good fit for us,” said Kim Walsh, associate dean of students. “We want to ensure that our campus is safe, that we have a good campus climate, and that if we don’t, we can address whatever those things are so that, in the end, we (have) a safe campus climate.”

According to Katie Tharp, director of institutional research, campus sexual assault is severely underreported, making it difficult for institutions to understand the full scope of the problem. This then makes it difficult to up an institution’s security and safety standards if need be. However, new resources released by the White House task force provided Loras College with tools to address this issue by conducting a detailed climate survey addressing student safety and sexual misconduct.

“We decided to implement the survey because we believe our campus response, intervention and prevention efforts will be more successful if they are tailored to the needs of the Loras campus community,” said Tharp.

Although Loras conducted a general campus climate survey several years ago, it was more geared towards finding out how comfortable students feel around campus. The new climate survey, in addition to these more broad questions of inclusion, was specifically developed to inform the campus’s policies and practices addressing student safety and sexual misconduct.

To get a clearer picture of student safety and sexual misconduct on campus, the college decided to make this a population survey instead of a sample survey. Though

CAB reveals spring 2015 performer

by CLAIRA SIEVERDING | for the lorian

The Loras Campus Climate Survey was launched in order to gather information about how community members feel about the atmosphere of safety on campus. photo by CASSANDRA BUSCH

a sample survey costs less and is less time consuming, surveying all students over the age of eighteen gives the most complete picture.

“Ultimately, we want to know what our entire campus climate is like,” said Walsh.

“Inviting all students to participate gives us the broadest look on what’s happening on campus and what’s not.”

According to Tharp, the college ultimately plans to use the results of this survey to “tailor programs and policies on campus that enhance student safety and protect them from sexual assault.”

Although this is an effort geared towards improving student experience by providing a safer environment, some students are reluctant to take the survey.

“I haven’t taken the survey because I haven’t been told what it is about,” said a current senior. “I took a survey a few years ago, but I haven’t heard how this one is different.”

However, this survey, according to Walsh, will be helpful for students in the

long run because it will direct the campus in its attempt to be a more safe place.

“We want students to feel comfortable in safe reporting,” said Walsh. “We want them to know how to report, that we take this seriously and that we really want to make Loras a safe climate for all students.

So, the more students that take the survey, the more accurate will be the results and our response to the results.”

The college welcomes feedback from all students and encourages them to participate in the 15-30 minutes survey. In addition, students can skip any questions they feel uncomfortable answering and still complete the survey. The respondents’ confidentiality is also protected in a way that only one person has access to the individual responses, and even then, that one person has no way of knowing who the individual respondents are.

The survey will remain open until Dec. 12. To participate, students should look for an email from Art Sunleaf, dean of students.

On Nov. 17, The Loras College Activities Board announced that the Eli Young Band would take to the stage in the AWC next semester on May 15, to conclude the annual Loraspalooza events. The Eli Young Band has many well-known chart toppers: “Crazy Girl,” “Drunk Last Night,” and “Even If It Breaks Your Heart.”

The Eli Young Band has received many awards and even Grammy recognition for Best Duo/Group Performance. They have also received a number of nominations from the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music including Best Country Song, Single of the Year and Song of the Year.

Ticket information will be made available to students and the public soon.

The Loras College Activities Board want ticket prices to remain relatively low for students; the first 400 Student tickets will cost $10 each, and public tickets will be $25. If you have any questions about the concert, please contact Melissa Klinkhammer at melissa.klinkhammer@ loras.edu.

Streamlines showcases student writers

by CASSANDRA BUSCH | news editor

This past Saturday, Nov. 15, eight students were given the opportunity to present their work at the annual Streamlines Undergraduate Conference in Language, Literature, and Writing. Any undergraduate student is welcome to apply to showcase their piece at Streamlines, which could include a creative short story, non-fiction piece, poem, literary paper or panel. Accepted students then present their work for conference attendees, other presenters and faculty at the event which is traditionally held in November.

Each year, the conference rotates location between the University of Dubuque, Clarke University, and Loras and is co-hosted by the English & Language-Literature departments of the three institutions. This year, the event took place at Clarke University with Dr. Kate McCarthy-Gilmore as the Loras representative on the organizing committee.

“I wanted to participate because I think the conference is a dynamic and unique experience for our students,” said McCarthy-Gilmore. “Over 50 students presented, and there were over ten schools from the Midwest represented by these presentations.

The exposure to the high quality of work at Streamlines as well as connection to peers working in the same areas at other institutions provides intellectual and personal development for students.”

The eight Loras students that were ac-

Loras students and faculty members attended Streamlines to present or celebrate the work of their undergraduate writer’s pieces. photo CONTRIBUTED

cepted covered a broad range of works: sophomore Ellie Horst presented a paper in literary analysis, senior Colin Halbmaier and sophomore Cassandra Busch presented fiction pieces, senior Devin Gackle covered popular culture analysis, senior Hallie Hayes had creative non-fiction, poetry and literary analysis, junior Noelle Henneman and senior Ryan Graham presented their creative non-fiction, and senior Nora Zerante presented poetry.

“I definitely think that it is a great ego-boosting opportunity for undergraduate writers who are still developing their skills,” said Hayes. “As undergraduates, it’s easy to

be humble about our work because we are still learning how to get our ideas out on the page. As a writer though, it’s important to be humble about your work, but it’s also important to balance this humility with confidence in your work. Getting accepted to a conference like Streamlines is one of those chances to build your confidence.”

These Loras students were accompanied by other student presenters from Waldorf College, Saint Mary’s University-Winona, University of St. Thomas, Trinity Christian College, Briar Cliff University and Coe College.

The day began with check-in at 8 a.m., and panels began at 8:30 a.m. Three panels took place at one time, and these panels broke students up into groups depending on their topics or formats of their pieces. Each panel consisted of four or five students presenting their works and was moderated by a faculty member from one of the three co-hosting colleges. There was also a session for faculty panels that were able to present on a variety of topics as well.

“On another note, I think the conference promotes idea-sharing,” said Hayes. “When you can hear works written by other authors and have the chance to ask them about their creative processes and struggles they encounter, you get a fresh perspective on writing and that can in turn filter into your own writing. In a way, I think it broadens our imaginations.”

Morning sessions were followed by a catered lunch and then a keynote speaker. The keynote speaker for this year was William May, former Vice President for Caterpillar, Inc. who spoke about the humanities as preparation for the business world. Three more afternoon panel sessions took place before the conclusion of the conference at 5 p.m.

Next year, the Streamlines conference will be taking place on Loras’ campus. Interested students and faculty can apply next fall for the 2015 conference.

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News

The Lorian Nov. 20, 2014

Striking the Silence helps Breaking the Silence strike back against mental illness stigmas

by CASSANDRA BUSCH | news editor

Breaking the Silence will host one of its biggest events of the year this Sunday, Nov. 23. From 12 -2 p.m., Strike Against Silence, a team bowling fundraiser, will be taking place at Cherry Lanes. This year will be the second time that Breaking the Silence has hosted this event. It is a general fundraiser for the club and one of its primary sources of donations.

It’s not too late to sign up either, as teams are permitted to register until Saturday, the day before the actual event. Teams of four to five members can register for a lane and two games along with shoes for only $50. Every team is also encouraged to come up with a crazy costume.

Free pizzas were awarded to the first three teams to register, but there are still opportunities to win at the event itself.

Prizes will be awarded for top team scores for each game, and there is also a prize for best team costume. Last year, a team that dressed as cowboys with mustaches took the costume prize. In addition, discounted concessions will be offered at Cherry Lanes.

“It’s a lot of fun to see the crazy costumes that people come up with,” said senior Benjamin Minnis, president of Breaking the Silence. “Last year’s fundraiser was very successful in that it was our very first one, and we had 11 teams sign up. I felt like it was a very positive and fun environment.

It was a good time to bond with classmates over doing something good.”

Minnis and the rest of the Breaking the Silence executive board is looking forward to another successful year of the event, and they hope to surpass the number of teams that attended last year.

Minnis is joined on the E-board by junior Nicholas Utter and sophomore Ellie Horst as Event Directors, junior Clare Leis as Public Relations Director, and junior Noelle Henneman and senior Mike Deitzel as Fundraising Directors.

Minnis also hopes that students take advantage of this opportunity to unwind and de-stress with finals coming up.

“It’s a great time to do something like this to raise awareness because finals are coming up, and I feel like a lot of people

photos CONTRIBUTED

The costume winners from last year (Cowboys in Mustaches) had a great time bowling in Striking the Silence at last year’s event at Cherry Lanes, raising money for Breaking the Silence. are stressed out,” said Minnis. “This does two good things; it reduces stress by helping you to have fun and socialize, and then also to help raise awareness of the realities of mental illness.”

As for how Breaking the Silence is going as a whole this year, Minnis and the rest of the E-board is pleased with their growth from their inception just last year.

“Breaking the Silence is going great this year, in the aspect that we have a dedicat-

The joker

ed handful of students to the organization, which I don’t think we really had besides the E-board last year,” Minnis said.

Breaking the Silence is considering holding other events throughout the rest of this year, although they would most likely be second semester. It is not too late to join Breaking the Silence, either. Anyone and everyone is encouraged to join, and if interested, students should contact Benjamin Minnis or any of the other E-board members.

photo by TREY DAVIS

From VH1 to Letterman to Comedy Central and now Loras College, Pete Lee has done it all! Last Saturday, Nov. 15, Pete Lee performed his stand up comedy act in the ACC Ballroom. CAB would like to thank those that braved the cold to come and laugh with them. Pete Lee is one of many comedians that CAB looked at when starting to plan the 2014-2015 events back in the spring. As per student request, comedians are one of the regular attractions that CAB brings to campus.

News

The Lorian

Nov. 20, 2014

3

International Education Week opens students’ eyes to international travel

by SEABELO MONTWEDI | staff writer

On November 10-13, the Center for Experiential Learning (CEL) Office continued with its custom of celebrating International Education Week every year.

The celebration, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education, aims at celebrating the many benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.

This year, the office focused specifically on students’ stories and experiences.

“This year’s IEW theme was highlighting students’ international stories and debunking misconceptions of the home and host countries

of our Duhawks,” said Abbie Behrens, Study Abroad Assistant Coordinator.

One of the few events that have, over the years, become regular on the lineup include a panel discussion where international and study abroad students share their international experiences through a dialogue centered on intercultural competence and awareness.

Another event that has become a regular comeback is the Study Abroad Fair which highlights Loras College’s Semester Abroad Programs where students can learn more about different opportunities to study abroad. This year, the CEL office expanded with booths for January Term

Students have the opportunity to explore different study-abroad options. photos by SEABELO MONTWEDI

Loras community garden closes for winter season

by NINO ERBA | staff writer

the rest of the season, we had a wide variety of things: tomatoes, eggplants, jalaLast semester, a community garden peños, bell peppers. We also had a bunch outside of the St. Joseph Hall of Science of herbs like chives, mint, rosemary, had its official opening ceremony. The oregano and thyme. And green beans, garden, which involved one of the Honnot to forget, cucumbers and pumpkins,” ors sustainability groups, boasted a wide although she said that stink beetles killed variety of plants, even at its opening. all the pumpkins.”

At this point, the garden has since Sinha also noted that around the garbeen adjusted for the weather, but it still den, there were different plants, like remains and is visible every time you flowers such as marigolds and black-eyed walk past or into the Science Hall. ConSusans. sidering its longevity since its inception, Sinha says that expanding with the the garden can be seen as successful. gardens is the overall, overarching goal, “I would say overall, it’s been pretty but she says that, “This is all organic. It’s successful,” said Morgan Rea, who is evolving as we go along.” One area of part of the Honors sustainability group possible expansion she mentioned was for the senior class, along with Emily not another garden Nelson, Jackie Russ, Vewith produce, but more ronica Andraski, EmmaOn the students’ side, of a butterfly garden lyne Smith and Margaret over by Wahlert. She Rea isn’t sure about DeGrand. also mentioned that She also noted that when the garden there is a compost bin she’s heard of people will be reopened behind the greenhouse who have taken produce on campus. specifically, and said from the garden and Sinha said that, for there have been a few that “we have to wait the future, “We’d realevents revolving around for the ground to ly like more people to the garden, but she come, to be aware of thaw, or at least get would like to see more this endeavor and be involvement and more semi-thawed in the part of it.” students using it. She spring,” putting the On the students’ wrapped up by restating side, Rea isn’t sure emphasis on how her opinion of the garden about when the garbut noted that “I think, long the winter lasts. den will be reopened obviously there’s room specifically, and said for improvement.” that “we have to wait It’s not only students who have had for the ground to thaw, or at least get a hand in working with the garden. “I, semi-thawed in the spring,” putting the along with Dr. [Thomas] Davis, decided emphasis on how long the winter lasts. we start a small experiment, experimenRea also said that, “If anyone’s intertal campus garden. The idea of it would ested in the spring in becoming more be to combine aesthetics with a utility involved, they could either contact Dr. function,” said Dr. Aditi Sinha, ProAditi Sinha or Dr. Tom Davis, myself, fessor of Biology at Loras College. She or one of the group members. We’re also talked about how they “wrote up a always looking for more volunteers or few grants, and one of the grants came more people who are excited about this, through,” and working with the Honors so if anyone’s even remotely interested, sustainability group. they should contact us,” noting that “you She explained that the garden at this don’t have to have, like, gardening skills time is dormant, but highlighted its sucor knowledge to join.” cess for the time that it was active.

It’s perfectly understandable that the In terms of produce, Sinha said that, garden at this point is dormant, but ex“Earlier on in May and early part of sumpect further activity to arrive in the next mer, we had cold season vegetables like semester. spinach, lettuce and green onions. For

faculty and international internship, among others.

New events included such events as the International Mythbuster, co-hosted by the Loras Intercultural Student Association (L.I.S.A.) and Study Abroad Alumni Peer Leaders. The purpose of the event, through a game system, was to educate and breakdown the Loras community on common cultural myths, misconceptions and stereotypes. Through these many events, the CEL office hopes to continue to engage students in a way that allows them to learn not only from an outline of facts, but from others’ experiences about the many international opportunities offered by the college.

When commenting about this, Behrens said, “One goal is to continue to incorporate the many experiential opportunities that exist for our students through international service and internships. Students are not only seeking international opportunities within their fields of study, but opening doors to exciting internships and volunteer experiences in and outside of their selected major/minor.”

Other departments that helped make the week of events a success through participation include the Intercultural Programs Office, the Health Center and Financial Planning Office.

In addition to encouraging students to take advantage of these learning opportunities, she also urges students to not let

their area of study deter them from exploring opportunities to study or intern outside the country.

“Do not assume that because of your major or year in school that you are prevented from having a culturally-rich and transformative learning experience. There are a plethora of study abroad and study away opportunities linked to all disciplines and interest,” Behrens emphasized.

UNICEF helps prepare Syria for colder weather

Families struggle to provide their children with sufficient warmth as winter approaches; UNICEF prepares to deal with the possible upcoming crisis

dren and families often slip through the cracks and end up suffering for months until the weather warms.

UNICEF worker and blogger, Kumar Tiku, recently took a trip to Syria to aid the people in preparing their shelters for the winter and taking notes to report back to UNICEF on how best to help the Syrians this winter.

by CASSANDRA BUSCH | news editor “Approximately 4,000 families are With winter fast approaching, many living in the shelter I visited in western humanitarian organizations are pushed Aleppo and many are already beginning into overdrive attempting to provide the to experience the harsh realities of winadequate clothing, food and shelter the ter. With night temperatures having poor need to protect themselves from dropped appreciably across northern the frigid temperatures.

Syria, these families are ill-prepared to Many Americans focus on the impovprotect their children from falling sick erished in the United States during the or worse,” Tiku wrote on his UNICEF holiday season, but the need for winblog. “Most families, having migrated ter necessities is just as large in other from the eastern side of the city, are in countries around the globe as well. Syria desperate economic straits and coping is one example of a country that is in with the worst living conditions imagdesperate need for winter gear in order inable.” to provide for their citizens that cannot Many Syrian parents worry that their provide for themselves. This season, children will not be able UNICEF is being espeto survive the winter cially watchful of the without proper warmth, situation in Syria, and nutrition, and healthWith night they are doing their best care. In order to assist to provide for the Syritemperatures having these families and chilans in need this winter dropped appreciably dren, UNICEF aims to season. provide 400,000 kits of across northern Syria, Syria currently has 6.4 winter clothing for the million of its people disthese families are most vulnerable across placed; three million of ill-prepared to protect Syria. which are children. They their children from Each kit, costing $40, are homeless, many are includes a winter coat, falling sick or worse. living in temporary shelwool sweater, warm ters that cannot provide Kumar Tiku pants, woolen hat, scarf, adequate protection UNICEF worker and blogger gloves, wool socks, and from the cold temperawinter boots for each tures, and many lack hot child. About 220,000 water for bathing. kits have already been These shelters are full to the brim secured, and are currently being diswith Syrians, and are usually simple tributed. However, about $7.2 million constructions of unfinished buildings is needed so that UNICEF can help that typically lack doors and windows, 182,400 more children by supplying and sometimes even have holes in the these winter kits. walls. Polythene sheets are used to Every donation counts. If someone patch the holes, but the frigid winds still is interested in helping this cause, come through. Winter temperatures in they can donate on UNICEF’s official Syria often drop to below zero, increaswebpage. UNICEF at Loras will also ing the risk of diseases being spread. be holding a fundraiser on January Because the government in Syria al28, called Salsa Night, which will raise ready has many problems that it is trymoney to donate to UNICEF as well. ing to contain, these impoverished chil-

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The Lorian

Opinion

Nov. 20, 2014

When anger becomes a response of faith

by HANNAH WAY| executive copy editor

O

ne afternoon this summer, I found myself joking around with a group of grade-school girls at a school’sout program in Chicago. Like most conversations with a group of giggling girls, it wound from boys to sports to books. But for some reason, the topic of what we were most afraid of came up. I expected the roar of laughter that I got when I admitted that my biggest fear was elevators (go ahead and crack a smile, too).

What I didn’t expect was the reply I got when I turned the question back on them.

Their biggest fear wasn’t storms or spiders, elevators or earthworms. They weren’t afraid of heights or flying or the deep end of the pool. They looked me in the eye and told me that they were afraid of their brothers or sisters, mothers or fathers would be shot. They were afraid that their family would be killed.

These four grade-school girls weren’t able to have irrational, foolish fears—they were scared of an all too real possibility.

This summer I helped lead “urban immersion” retreats in Chicago— experiences which hopefully open participants’ eyes to the concrete issues that a large part of our society struggles with. I met Sean, a college student who experiences homelessness during the summer months when his scholarship doesn’t pay for the rent. I met Malcolm, a senior in high school who has been in

and out of the justice system and must this is happening in other areas of the face the reality of gang violence in his world, but it is also happening right in our neighborhood. I couldn’t do anything backyard. How can someone shed the mask for these young men. Ending issues like of gang-life if this community is their only homelessness and gang violence takes source of support or sense of protection? more than one person’s summer. But How difficult would it be to shed the mask what I did do was sit of hypermasculinity and listen to stories. I when you must sleep on listened, and I learned. the streets night after I am going to be When St. John Paul night? angry until everyone II reminds us that it is I’ll be the first to receives a good and Christ we seek when we admit that I have led a “dream of happiness,” he pretty comfortable life. affordable education. is not just reminding us Like a lot of seniors, I I have friends who are that Christ is the center am going to graduate going to be angry until of our longing, the center this spring with close of our restlessness; he to $30,000 dollars of everyone has a place is also reminding us student loan debt, but to sleep, every single that each and every I have also been able night. Hopefully there person we encounter is to get a college degree. is something that you also dreaming of this I may not be able to happiness. Each and afford to go out to will be angry about every person is looking dinner on the weekend, until the problem is for Christ. Each and but when my belt breaks completely solved. every person is striving I can go to the store and to “shed the masks of a buy a new one. false life.”

Some mornings I But what happens when our wake up and ask myself how I can live so environment makes it difficult to recognize comfortably when those four grade-school this longing, to shed these masks? girls are scared to play outside their house.

When I listened to stories of addiction But what I learned this summer was that and homelessness and violence this the frustration and anger I live with—and summer, I was confronted with the stark that we should all live with—is a good anger. reality that some people have basic needs Let’s remember: Christ flipped a table. that aren’t being met. Often, we know that If Christ can flip the money-changers’

‘Like’ me ... or ‘like’ me not: Self-worth and social media T

by CASSANDRA BUSCH| news editor

way, but over time, chances are they succumb to the pressures to stay here’s this horrible affliction going around. People have started relevant and they begin to fine tune, edit, and hone their posts to perfection. basing their self-worth on how The Internet and social media can popular they are on social media. How many “likes” someone gets has replaced make you feel all sorts of left field emotions in a matter of minutes. do-gooding, work ethic, humor, Jealousy of someone’s seemingly kindness, and relationships as the aspects of someone’s life that give them perfect life, anger of why they get such satisfaction and fulfillment. nice things and you don’t, annoyance at I’m guilty of this too, as I think a Farmville requests and ads, happiness majority of my generation is. I post that someone just liked your picture, tweets and Instagrams and statuses sadness that more people haven’t, thinking about how many “likes” I’ll satisfaction that you have more friends get, at times getting a little frustrated than someone else... Too many of us because I know that if I was a celebrity drink from this shallow emotional or someone cool, pool that doesn’t I could have a lot give us any real more “likes.” In fact, Too many of us drink satisfaction at all. sometimes I follow We base our selffrom this shallow people just to look worth off of these emotional pool that at the outrageous trivial statistics amount of likes or doesn’t give us any like number of favorites they’ll get for likes, comments real satisfaction at all. something I personally and shares, We base our self-worth believe isn’t that even instead of real life that cool or important. off of these trivial relationships, work People with huge statistics like number accomplishments, amounts of followers volunteer hours, of likes, comments on social media have etc. These are become a new type of and shares, instead of some of the only celebrity. They have real life relationships, real and tangible fans, people that “like” things that will work accomplishments, or comment on almost give us satisfaction volunteer hours, etc. every one of their post, and help our selfbathing the celebrity esteem. The high with a ridiculous and happiness from social media fades amount of praise and adoration for too quickly. every little thing they do.

I think we should all take a pledge There are people whose jobs are now to help each other unlike this “like” to post things on social media, because system. If you’re feeling down because they’ve become so big and followed by your picture didn’t get the number of so many people. “likes” it deserved, go hang out with These people are strategists. They friends, and live in the real world with know what people want to read, look people whose opinions you should at and listen to. They know what time actually care about, instead of the of day and day of the week is optimal clicks of mouses of nameless Internet to post things. They are well-versed trolls. It’s hard at times to do, but value in Photoshop, psychology, and pop yourself for what you know you’re culture. The point is that most of these worth, instead of what social media things aren’t organic. Exceptions exist says. of course, but for the most part these “Like” me or “like” me not, I like me, hit Internet sensations are contrived, not natural. They may start out that and that’s enough.

tables, then I think He can stir in us, as JPII, says, “the refusal to allow [ourselves] to be grounded by mediocrity.”

And I think, if we are going to refuse the mediocrity that the world so often expects of us, we might have to get angry sometimes. This anger is Christ provoking a thirst for justice in us. If the world isn’t going to recognize each person’s dignity, then Christ wants us to get mad and change that.

Christ is going to provoke our anger until every single person who is born onto this earth has a fair chance at shedding those masks of a false life. He is going to provoke our anger until every person who is born onto this earth can dream of happiness.

I am going to be angry until everyone receives a good and affordable education.

I have friends who are going to be angry until everyone has a place to sleep, every single night. Hopefully there is something that you will be angry about until the problem is completely solved — pornography, religious intolerance, domestic abuse. Some people may claim that this is naïve idealism. But if JPII thinks that Christ gives us “the desire to do something great with [our] lives, the will to follow an ideal,” then I am not willing to compromise. I am not willing to give up the ideal. I am not willing to compromise with mediocrity. I am not willing to compromise with injustice.

Loras senior reflects on summer internship at Mayo Clinic T

by JACKIE RUSS| staff writer

that I acquired or refined during my internship. These skills include things his past summer I spent 10 such as paying attention to detail, weeks in the beautiful city keeping a detailed and organized lab of Rochester, Minnesota for book, learning to manage my time my internship at the Mayo Clinic. (both in the lab and outside of the lab), I was one of about 100 students reading and understanding scientific to take part in the Mayo Clinic’s papers, and improving my scientific Summer Undergraduate Research writing. All of the skills mentioned above Fellowship Program. I worked in will also be helpful in a future career and the translational neuroscience lab in life in general, working as a member under the direction of Dr. Susannah of a team, collaboration, learning to ask Tye. While I was there, my work was the right questions, and public speaking/ primarily investigating the acute presentation skills. antidepressant actions of Ketamine Additionally, I learned quite a bit in treatment-resistant depression about myself this summer. I learned through behavioral tests with rats. In a lot more about being independent addition I worked on a “mini-review” and about essential life skills such as called a column budgeting, paying for a Psychiatry rent, and cooking.

Review publication.

While these skills were I learned a lot from I also attended not directly related this experience that lab meetings, to my research or will help me in the lab seminars, journal my internship, they clubs, as well as are still important at Loras, in graduate participated in a skills to have. At my school, in my future poster symposium. internship, however, career, and in life in I learned a I learned that I enjoy lot from this general. When I was the active part of experience that research much more describing what I will help me in the than the background learned to my parents I lab at Loras, in research and reading graduate school, said that I learned a lot portion. I also in my future learned how to create of factual knowledge, career, and in life professional, yet fun but I also learned a in general. When relationships with my I was describing lot about myself and coworkers and how to what I learned to get along with people about life-skills. my parents I said who are different from that I learned a myself. I also learned lot of factual knowledge, but I also that research is the direction in which I learned a lot about myself and about want to head and that I have a passion life-skills. It was really neat to see and for the clinical and translational aspect learn how a large research institution of research. I believe that my desire to is run, especially one that focuses answer questions and help people at the on a team approach to medical care same time is one of the driving forces and bringing research from “bench that is leading me toward this type of to bedside.” I learned of the unique research. skills, advantages, and challenges that Overall, I am incredibly grateful go along with doing clinical and/or for this opportunity I had to make translational research. my dreams become reality. I hope to When I’m in the lab doing research someday be able to make a difference in and taking lab classes both at Loras people’s lives not only through research, and in graduate school, I will be able but by giving back and helping others as to apply a lot of the technical skills others have done for me.

Opinion

The Lorian

Nov. 20, 2014

5

Islamic State beheads another hostage, Abdul-Rahman Peter Kassig, on video T

his past Sunday, the Islamic State released another video, their fifth, of a masked fighter, covered in black, gloating over the dead body of a young Westerner. In this instance, it was Abdul-Rahman Peter Kassig, a 26-year old aid worker. He was captured on Oct. 1, while delivering food to refugees in an eastern Syrian province. Peter Kassig was an Army Ranger who served for one year in Iraq. However, his experience left him disenchanted Dale Elenteny with the efficacy of boots-on-theground military intervention. When he returned to the region last year, it was as the leader of a self-founded aid group, focused on alleviating the suffering of refugees from the civil war in Syria.

Kassig, who converted to Islam in captivity and adopted the name Abdul-Rahman (Arabic for “servant of the

A DALE-Y DOSE

Every video ISIS puts out is another attempt at poking the bear. The group is clearly inviting more military intervention from Western countries. merciful”) wouldn’t have wanted his death to be another talon for hawks in the US, but that is what it might be manipulated into.

Every video ISIS puts out is another attempt at poking the bear. The group is clearly inviting more military intervention from Western countries. Their videos are made with the intent of being seen, and are peppered with taunts and threats, many of which are spoken directly, almost conversationally, to President Obama. Another American crusade into the desert would kill many, many Islamic State fighters, but what do they care? This enemy doesn’t operate on

basic human values (just look at who they’re killing – journalists and aid workers), and certainly doesn’t lose sleep over preserving life, even their own. An invasion would also kill huge numbers of Iraqis and Syrians who aren’t members of the Islamic State, ensuring that hatred of all things American is bred into another generation. Military adventures brought this upon us to begin with – no matter how good the reasons given for going to war are, it inevitably leave piles of blowback and unintended consequences in its wake.

ISIS is choked by countries which, if not “allies” of ours in the normal sense, certainly hold the Islamic State as a common enemy. Let them take this one.

Where are the Turks, the Saudis, the Iranians, the Russians, and the Egyptians? All have borders much closer to the foaming mouths of caliphate-minded jihadists than we do, and none would benefit from a rogue religious state knocking on their door. The United States has left enough blood, cash, and tears in the Middle East. It’s time for a different option.

Why is Kim Kardashian’s butt ‘news’?

I

don’t know if anyone else caught “School of Rock” this weekend, but ABC Family showed it more than once. I was inspired to, once again, pay my disrespect to the Man, man!

OK, but before we start that, let’s get some of the ground-breaking news out of the way for the week: Kim Kardashian’s Kalli Miner butt, Kim Kardashian’s boobs, and … Snooki’s new baby! Man, I’m glad we got that over with.

Now for the less important stuff: a major probe has landed on a comet after a major scientific triumph and an extraordinary distance traveled, Indonesian women are being forced to get tests to confirm virginity, and Kenyan women are being stripped naked and exploited on the stairs of the capital city. So, back to Kim’s butt you say? … Say what?

Yes, that’s what we’re talking about these days. How dumb (that wasn’t a question, by the way). Way to stick it to the man news media! Not. Not at all.

I know, shocking, another blowhard on a soapbox ranting about “the media.”

But, hey, allow me to prove my contempt for these bumper sticker “activists” by elaborating on that very vague point of “bad media.”

The media isn’t just bad; IT’S LAZY! The

‘MINER’ DETAIL

crap headlining is everywhere. America’s Politically-Correct-White-Collar-TabloidHerald would make the likes of Cronkite and Murrow banter in their graves.

Outrageous I tell you. What ever happened to the watchdogs?

No, we don’t launch all-out, legitimate investigations on politicians like the duo who busted Nixon. Instead, we keep it surface level. Either we’re totally inaccurate like Fox News or too afraid to take a real stand on any issue like CNN. Either way, our news outlets are junk.

That is, unless you turn to an independent news source or other more suitable varieties of news that suit your liking. And I think that you should (but don’t take my word for it; take a buzz feed quiz or something).

At any rate, we aren’t challenging anyone, especially the Man, if we’re over here distracted by someone’s butt implants or someone else’s fake tan. Who cares? Why do we care so much about the appearance of other people and scrutinize that?

Meanwhile, back at the Real Life and Veracity Ranch, women are being exploited around the world and we sigh.

We say, “Women will be persecuted forever, they always have been .. but Kim’s body parts … dat butt doe!”

Or is this just a different kind of exploitation? She just isn’t fighting it like the women in Kenya and Indonesia.

She’s asking for the attention. Maybe Kim’s caught on to the system of news and cultural interest. She knows that being

Conservatives celebrate, look ahead to 2016 F irst of all, we would like to thank all of the Duhawks that helped out with the election cycle this year.

This was a fantastic year to be working for the Republican ticket.

Not only did we see the Senate turn red with the help of our girl Joni (Ernst), but also the Kenzie House remained red with Elsbernd a little help from our own alum, Rod Blum (’77).

Also on a local note, Daryl Klein was elected as Dubuque County Supervisor.

This is a very exciting bonus to knowing that we have the majority in all of Congress, sending a message to Washington that the people have spoken and they are tired of the agendas and broken promises that are coming out of Washington.

For the Republican Party, holding up

READ AND RIGHT

conservative values and not swaying from their beliefs is what won this election. So we now ask all fellow Duhawks not to forget why they voted for these great men and women who are going to Washington to represent us.

We need to keep up this momentum into 2016 and support our elected officials through any struggles they may have along the way. We need to keep them accountable and stay informed so that we can clean up the corruption and give to the American people legislation that protects our freedom and leaves the power with the people of the United States of America.

Again thank you all for going out and supporting this year’s election. 2016 here we come!

At any rate we aren’t challenging anyone, especially the Man, if we’re over here distracted by someone’s butt implants or someone else’s fake tan. Who cares? Why do we care so much about the appearance of other people and scrutinize that? exploited (in this case, exploiting herself) will gain attention. After all, it has. And, the news media will publish it, dissect every element, and exhaust very little bit of importance that existed in the issue in a fight to attract more consumers.

So why do we blame the media? Aren’t they just giving us what we want? Or, are the telling us what we want? Either way, it has worked.

Instead of keying in on the reason why Kim is getting all of this attention, we’ve gone a different direction. In a perfect (or at least, a better) world, there would still be plenty of room for Kim’s butt in the news.

It would just have to relate more to our other stories this week on the women from Kenya and Indonesia (and the countless women who remain un-headlined).

Because, in a better world, we would all be concerned with the cultural obsession with marketing, commodifying, and controlling

of female sexuality. We’d ask better questions than the one’s we’re asking now.

We wouldn’t be asking about the implants in someone’s behind.

But better doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s ask: why is it that women, sex, and level of exposure seems to come up in our media over and over again? An inseparable triad that, no doubt, is some sort of cultural indicator. Or, why are we in this constant struggle to regulate what level of female sexual activity is acceptable? Boo hiss, I tell you, boo hiss!

Don’t mistake me. I am in no way promoting promiscuity or sexual/ emotional carelessness. As liberal as I may seem, I am very conservative on this issue.

But, that shouldn’t matter to you because we don’t belong to each other as property, ever.

So why do we live as such? No, no, surely you don’t try possess women (or each other) in any literal way, but you don’t seem to be speaking out about it either.

Remember how your teacher told you that being a bystander is just as bad as bullying?

That concept applies here.

So let’s take some advice from ABC Family’s hairiest-freeloading-fake teacher as he articulates the curriculum of the School of Rock (and of life!) as he says: “You’re not hard-core,” *back-up singers: you’re not hard-core* “Unless you live hard-core.”

Because rock, along with life, is about sticking it to the Man, or as Nietzsche might see it: challenging the challenger. So get out there and rock on, America.

Goodbye, for now.

The Lorian will be going on hiatus until the spring semester due to the impending breaks. But if you’re interested in joining our team in the future, please e-mail either: Mary Agnoli: mary.agnoli@loras.edu or Colin Halbmaier: colin.halbmaier@loras

Happy Holidays!

Editorial staff co-executive editor: MARY AGNOLI co-executive editor/ features editor: COLIN HALBMAIER news editor: CASSANDRA BUSCH sports editor: RYAN GRAHAM assistant features editor: SAMANTHA VATH assistant sports editor: DREW BRASHAW

executive copy editor: HANNAH WAY head copy editor: KAITLIN YAHR copy editors: ELLIE HORST MARGARET SENTOVICH advertising manager: COLLEEN MULRY moderator: TIM MANNING

6

The Lorian

Features

Features

Nov. 20, 2014

Play it again, Sweet Saxophone!

by NINO ERBA | staff writer

It’s an instantly recognizable musical instrument. It’s been featured in a wide variety of musical genres. It’s been used in some of the most iconic pop and rock songs of all time, with many of them happening in the 1970s and 80s. However, given its ubiquity, it might surprise you that the saxophone isn’t even that old.

According to an NPR article, its inventor was born on November 6th, 1814. During his lifetime, he “made improvements to the bass clarinet and invented a family of instruments called ‘saxhorns’ before creating his eponymous ‘phone’ in the early 1840s.”

This latter instrument has proven to have remarkable longevity, and is also quite versatile.

“There are three types of saxophones that are common,” Dr. Glenn Pohland, Director of Bands at Loras College: the alto, tenor and baritone saxes. He added that “they essentially have a two-and-a-half octave range, up to and including F-sharp three ledger lines above the staff in treble clef.”

Pohland also noted that “The alto and tenor are the most common,” but explained that back then, with some exceptions, “the saxophone did not get accepted as an orchestral instrument.” He added that both tenor and alto sax are used a lot in jazz music, mentioning Charlie Parker as an example of a famous tenor sax player in jazz.

Sax players can also be found at Loras College.

“The saxophone I play the most is the tenor sax,” said Blake Hussey. “I usually play the harmony.”

Though his primary instrument is the clarinet, Hussey said that he was in his high school jazz

band, and that as a clarinetist, “I felt out of place in the jazz band. I felt like if I wanted to sound really good in a jazz band, then I should get started on saxophone.” He also complimented the sound, range and versatility of the tenor sax, further talking about its role particularly in jazz but noting that “It can be played in a concert band, and it has.”

Apart from orchestra and jazz, Pohland also noted its use in other genres, pointing out that “it made its mark in the classic disco era and some of the rock era,” naming Kenny G and the song “Thrift Shop.” He also noted that “alto sax has been a hugely popular instrument for kids to start on.” He did make the distinction that “it’s an easy instrument to play to start. It’s a very difficult instrument to play well.”

To learn more about the sax and to start playing.

Pohland recommended visiting one of the local music stores, including Kentwood Parks West Music.

Loras also offers applied sax lessons each semester.

“I would tell them to start on the alto sax,” Hussey said. “Learn how to control your breathing, practice low notes, develop air support, tonguing, rhythms, and the basics—for starters.”

Considering the impact the saxophone has had at Loras and beyond so far, the saxophone will likely be around for centuries to come.

Lorian Leven

11 Ways to Fit a Workout Into Your Busy Schedule

by SEABELO MONTWEDI | staff writer

Finals week is almost upon us, which means papers, assignments, and projects deadlines are fast approaching. On top of that, Thanksgiving, an opportunity to stuff our mouths, is around the corner which makes it difficult to watch what we eat or burn it off when there’s a 10-page paper due at midnight. Below are ways to sneak in a workout during this busy time to keep in shape amidst the many demands for our time.

1. Divide up your workout. If you find that you can’t fit in an entire 30 minutes of workout in one session, divide it into 3 10-minute sessions at different times during the day.

2. Alternatively, you can sneak in small bursts of workout throughout the day. Waiting in line to see your professor about that paper you put off for too long, it wouldn’t hurt to pass the time with squats.

3. If you’re working on your laptop, sit on a stability ball instead of a chair. That way you get your assignments done and strengthen your core at the same time.

4. If you need to see someone about an assignment, see if you can talk to them while they walk to lunch or another appointment. This will put in miles towards a cardio workout.

5. The weather is getting cold so parking your car far from your destination may not be a viable option. But you can take stair instead of the elevator. Not only is it a cardio workout, it also tones your thighs.

6. When studying for extended periods, take a break every hour to do simple stretches or for a more challenging option, do push-ups or sit-ups.

7. At the grocery store, opt for a basket instead of a cart. This will help tone your arms.

8. When talking to your parents on the phone, don’t stay in place— walk around the room to burn some extra calories.

9. Practice proper posture. You can do this by avoiding sliding down on a chair and sitting upright instead.

10. Do a butt squeeze at your desk. Tighten, hold for a few seconds, relax, and repeat!

11. Or you could tighten your abs instead. Tighten, hold, relax, and repeat! Just remember to breathe!

Getting to Know the Bat Family Your guide to the family of Gotham’s guardian

by TYLER GARRISON | staff writer

The Dark Knight. The World’s Greatest Detective. We’re all familiar with the Caped Crusader known as the Batman.

We come from a generation that grew up with the numerous cartoon series and Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” Trilogy. Although Batman sometimes seems to be a lone wolf out there, he actually has quite a bit of help.

Alfred Pennyworth: Bruce Wayne couldn’t have become Batman without this man. This butler raised Bruce Wayne as his own after his parents were tragically murdered. Alfred provides quick wit and always has his two cents. He has always been the one that Bruce could open up to emotionally since he has been with him since day one.

Dick Grayson: Dick Grayson was the first kid to don the Robin title. He has an acrobatic background and fighting style from his days as a circus performer with his late family. Dick Grayson has been written into comics since the 1940’s and is often known as the first sidekick. Growing past being a sidekick, Grayson went off to college and created his own superhero title, Nightwing. Dick has also taken over as Batman on multiple occasions. Current storylines have Dick Grayson as a super spy in his own title called “Grayson.” Though this comic has been well received, speculations reign that Nightwing will be back due to the hero’s popularity.

Jason Todd: After falling out with his first sidekick, Bat-

man was quick to find a new Robin: Jason Todd, a young street kid on a bad path. Jason Todd was so unpopular with fans that DC killed him off after a fan vote. In the 1980s comic book titled “Under The Red Hood,” Jason Todd came back as the villainous crimelord called the Red Hood. Today, Red Hood is considered an anti-hero who plays by his own rules.

Barbara Gordon: Barbara Gordon, daughter of the police commissioner Jim Gordon, is the tech savvy member of the group. After suiting up as Batgirl, she was paralyzed in “The Killing Joke” by a gunshot from the Joker. Her crime fighting days were over but that didn’t stop her from helping the crusade. She became known as Oracle, Batman’s eye in the sky, and worked as a hacker to help the family as much as she could. She has also been an on-and-off love interest for Dick Grayson. Recently, the comics have written her back in as Batgirl, recovered somehow from her paralyzing injuries.

Talia Al Ghul: He has “warrior” written into his DNA. Though short-tempered and has a desire to kill, he serves as the most recent Robin. He has since died from an android attack by his mother, Talia, but I doubt he is gone for good.

Other Members: Different renditions and stories have included other members of the Bat family. There have been two female Robins: Carrie Kelly and Stephanie Brown.

Jewel thief Catwoman is often included with the family as well.

All hands on deck! Positions available for the Spring semester!

The Lorian is looking for new assistants for next semester! Layout editors, copy editors, photographers, and writers are all needed. If you’re interested in building up a portfolio and getting paid along the way (sophomores and older), contact us ASAP!

Colin Halbmaier Colin.Halbmaier@loras.edu

Mary Agnoli

Mary.Agnoli@loras.edu

The Lorian

A Visit with Zak Knutson

Nov. 20, 2014

7

An exclusive interview with an award-winning director

by DREW BRADSHAW | assistant sports editor

Students in Dr. Krista Belanger’s Intro to Mass Communication courses received a special treat last week, as award-winning filmmaker Zak Knutson dropped by for an engaging and entertaining Q&A session. Knutson, who was in town promoting the 3rd annual Julien Dubuque International Film Festival, spoke about the importance of good storytelling, and offered advice to college students with dreams of working in the film industry.

Zak has worked on numerous productions with filmmaker Kevin Smith, and recently directed the comic book documentary, “Marvel 75 Years: From Pulp to Pop,” which aired in October on ABC. Knutson’s 2013 documentary, “Milius,” centers on the life and career of controversial screenwriter John Milius, who many Hollywood heavyweights consider to be the greatest storyteller in the history of film.

“The most important thing you can do if you want to be a director, is to learn storytelling,” Knutson said.

“Good storytelling is short, it’s concise, but it doesn’t always have to be truthful,” Knutson said in an exclusive interview with The Lorian. “One of the things with John [Milius], that he kind of taught me, was: ‘Is it good for the story—or is it just good?’ Because everything should be good for the story.”

Pay attention, English majors.

“Knowing when the right place for the drama is, and when the right place for the humor is; when to pull the audience back, when to push the audience; when to make them feel uncomfortable, and then when to bring them back into the fold—I think that’s what makes a really good storyteller.”

Knutson—a high school dropout who abandoned a football scholarship at Colorado State University to chase his dreams in Los Angeles—offered some advice to any starry-eyed, aspiring actor/director/writer/producers who might be considering a path similar to his.

“If there’s anything else you can do to be happy, do it,” said Knutson. “Outside of L.A., I’m completely unemployable. I have no skills whatsoever outside of L.A.” Talent and creativity alone, Zak points out, are not enough to make a successful film career.

“If you want to be an actor, if you want to be a writer or director or producer—you’ve got to do it better than the next guy. There’s a million people in that town who are more talented than Steven Spielberg, guaranteed. They’re more talented, they have better vision, and they’re more creative—but they won’t get off their ass and put the Xbox down. That’s the difference. Every minute you’re not working to do what you want to do is another minute you’re not going to get there. No one’s going to come knocking on your door.”

Knutson shared his thoughts on a variety of subjects during the Q&A discussion with Dr. Belanger’s classes— here are some highlights: On the new ‘Star Wars’ movies—“I think they’ll be great, and the reason why I say that is J.J. Abrams. I think J.J. is great. If you watch his ‘Star Trek’ movie, he pushed it in that ‘Star Wars’ direction. Now they’re like, ‘Hey, here’s a lightsaber, go play with it for real.’”

On Ben Affleck as Batman—“I think he’ll be fine. The movie’s a whole other thing, though.”

On working with Mel Gibson—“I like Mel. I’m not going to tell you he’s not nuts—he’s bat shit crazy - but that doesn’t mean he’s not nice. I think we need those guys— maybe not the racist, anti-Semitic stuff—but you need the crazy guys to make the rest of us seem normal. Crazy guys are kind of awesome.”

On college interns—“If you’re going to be an intern, shut up and be an intern. Go get your coffee and make your copies. Don’t start suing the production company because they didn’t mentor you. Suck it up, Nancy. Go do the shit job and then do your own gig, don’t complain that nobody’s giving you your dream job out of the gate. Okay, I’m done. That made me feel better.”

For more information on the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival, visit julienfilmfest.com.

Pop Til You Reach the Top

Some of the biggest winners (and losers) we’ve heard about this year.

by NINO ERBA | staff writer

Every year, there are winners and losers in the game of popular culture. However, there are some who succeed or fail so spectacularly that they could very well be ubiquitous with said year. So without further ado, let’s take a look back at some of the biggest triumphs and falls from grace this year:

Winners

Animated films: This shouldn’t have happened. For the first time in nine years, Pixar didn’t release a single movie. Yet somehow, animation not only survived, it flourished. This year saw the release of knockouts such as “The Lego Movie,” “How To Train Your Dragon 2,” and “Big Hero 6,” with “The Boxtrolls” receiving an honorable mention. The idea that a movie about Legos could not only rise above the cynicism but could very well win Best Animated Feature is proof that sometimes, as they sing in the movie, “EVERYTHING IS AWESOME!” Charli XCX: She helped Icona Pop scream that they don’t care and they love it, and she was “fancy” alongside Iggy Azelea, but the Cambridge-born singer’s time in the solo spotlight has arrived. It helps that she proved her worth with the absolutely wonderful “Boom Clap,” from the soundtrack to “The Fault In Our Stars.”

She also has a number slated for the “Hunger Games” soundtrack, with Simon Le Bon. Top that off with her newest single “Break The Rules,” and you have a pop star the world didn’t know it needed. A pop singer who also draws influences from punk, and isn’t afraid to be herself. Pink, your heiress has arrived.

John Oliver: After spending years on the “Daily Show,” Oliver finally made it on his own on HBO. His new show, “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver,” has pulled off something remarkable: not only does it stand proudly alongside “The Daily Show” and the “Colbert Report,” it changed the game for the better. Oliver’s centerpiece skits, sometimes running more than 15 minutes long, thoroughly explore their subjects, allowing people to learn from them. Which is why John Oliver matters: the more we watch him, the more we learn, and hopefully the more we change how we live our lives.

Elizabeth Warren: The senator from Massachusetts,

for the most part, is a shining beacon in the black heart of Washington politics. Even as Obama’s popularity remains uninspiringly low and the Republicans can’t get behind an entire platform to help the American public to save their lives (with some exceptions like Rand Paul), Warren remains a stunningly well-liked political figure, being welcomed even in red states that coil back from Democrats. She just keeps going: releasing an autobiography, going onto talk shows and “The Daily Show,” being an eternal hope for 2016 (despite the fact that she repeatedly says she’s not running), and now getting a new leadership spot in the Democratic caucus. Let’s all forget Ready for Hillary: we need to be Ready for Warren, whether she runs for president or not!

Kshama Sawant: You may not know her name now, but be prepared to do so. The first Socialist City Council member of a major American city in decades after winning election in Seattle last year, she’s one of the reasons why a $15/hour minimum wage is now a feasible reality.

If there’s any guiding light in today’s American politics, it’s that we may finally be ready to embrace left-leaning, independent politicians. If further developments happen in Seattle, or if Vermont senator Bernie Sanders decides to run for president, it might be the breakthrough that our country deserves. And Sawant may be one to do so, because Hillary sure won’t get the job done.

Losers

Macklemore: For at least a year, it seemed that Macklemore was a force to be reckoned with: two number one hits, a song about being gay and endorsing same-sex relationships hitting the Top 40, and winning Best Rap Album at the Grammys (although he apologized to Kendrick Lamar afterwards). Then, he made a stunningly tineared move: performing a secret show dressed up as what many people saw as an exaggerated caricature of Jewish stereotypes, including a giant hook nose. The concert backfired and whether or not he can make a comeback is a question we shouldn’t have to answer. Let’s hope Kendrick Lamar doesn’t screw up this badly.

Rihanna: RiRi hasn’t released an album in two years. This is a problem. For a pop star who was such a workaholic that she released an album every year (barring “Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded,” but we’ll let that slide), the lack of output doesn’t look

good. Love her songs or hate them, at least they pumped blood into the airwaves. Other acts have picked up the slack, but we shouldn’t tolerate terrible songs by Maroon 5 and Jason Derulo on the radio. Rihanna has both a DreamWorks animated film, “Home,” and a coinciding album coming out next year, so hopefully the pop world will greet her back with open arms.

U2: This is a band that should have everything going for them: still monumentally popular after all these decades, a lead singer who does some commendable humanitarian work, and a partnership with one of the biggest brands in the world.

So what went wrong? Their latest album, “Songs of Innocence.” The album was subpar by U2’s standards, and the move to release it without notice and putting it in everyone’s iTunes library generated so much backlash that Apple had to come up with a way for people to get rid of it.

For a band that has generated such goodwill over the years, this flop did dome damage. U2 has rebounded before, but this time it will require a drastic rethinking of their current situation.

Will they be up to the task?

Barack Obama: Yes, we don’t need another rant against him because Fox News does that job for us. Instead, we need to address what went wrong this year. The war between Israel and Gaza and the Ferguson riots were just two of the biggest catastrophes that happened this year. There is actually a lot that Obama has done right, from tackling sexual assault on college campuses to supporting net neutrality. But unless he really shows us that he’s doing the right things, his popularity will continue to be miserable and the country disillusioned.

Democrats: Repeat after me: The Republicans didn’t win, the Democrats lost. It’s not that the Dems have bad policies. It boils down to Obama’s unpopularity, fear-mongering, American discontent, Dem candidates that didn’t deliver as they should have, and an ugly transformation of the party that has now made it unable to represent the left-wing that this country needs to truly recover.

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The Lorian Nov. 20, 2014

lifestyle

The Great Race

Share a Smile

by CASSANDRA BUSCH | news editor

by ELLIE HORST | news editor

The debate between the gym and the outdoors races on As the weather gets colder, many athletes and exercise enthusiasts are heading indoors to get in their daily sweat sessions. However, there is always a lot of debate going on about whether one is more beneficial than the other. There are pros and cons to each, but no matter where you choose to get moving, what really matters is how much work you’re putting in, and that you are exercising in the first place! Here are a few things to keep in mind though if you’re in a dilemma about which space to choose.

One of the biggest differences between running on a treadmill and running outside is the wind resistance. While indoors on a treadmill, the belt is moving continuously under you, and so it does take as much effort to propel yourself forward, as there is no wind to push against. However, if you set the treadmill at a one degree incline, many experts say that this will compensate for the amount of energy you would expend running outside on the pavement against the natural wind.

Another big difference between running inside and running outside is the difference in terrain. While running outside, there are a variety of different surfaces that you may encounter. Gravel, rubble, rocks, flat pavement, grass, sand… all of these terrains provide a different running experience, and depending on the surface, it may take more energy to navigate them. For instance, running on an uneven pavement will work more muscles in your body as it attempts to stabilize itself and keep you upright. Running on a treadmill is always predictable and even, and so it does not require your body to work itself in new ways as it goes along, but rather requires the same repetitive movements and muscles.

Hills are another obvious difference between running outdoors and on a treadmill, but this is up to the choice of the runner really. Most treadmills have the option of incorporating an incline, and sometimes even a decline, to the machine.

This can help to simulate the differences of outdoor steepness, that you find, say, in Dubuque which may help you in your training.

Being physically outside is another major difference between the two. Running outside is beneficial because being in nature releases endorphins in your body that energize you and may combat depression better than being indoors and working out. Regardless though, working out will improve your mood, no matter where you are. The treadmill provides a good alternative when the weather is poor, and it may prove dangerous to run outside. Running outside at night also is a risk in itself, and so a treadmill may prove to be the smarter option, especially if you are running alone. If you are running in less than favorable conditions such as snow, rain, fog, darkness, etc., run with one or more others if you can, and make sure to wear reflective clothing so that drivers can see you on the road.

Pacing is also an issue that comes up in this debate. Running outside requires a runner to set their own pace, and your body will typically do this instinctively.

However, while running on a treadmill it can be easy to get in a rut, as many people set one pace and run to that the entire time. This lacks the challenge of pushing yourself to new levels.

This argument about which is more productive could go on and on, but the important thing really is to listen to yourself, and your body to find out which is better for you. It really is a personal preference, and you can’t go wrong with either. As mentioned before, as long as you are active and moving, the location is merely a second rate concern. Although running outside might prove to have a few more benefits than a treadmill, both have the ability to provide a great run.

So, no matter your taste, go forth and run!

Congratulations!

Six of Loras’ senior English Literature majors (Megan Redmond, pictured above, Kristin Reuter, Desiree Tamez, Anna Speltz, Tyler Vatcoskay and Nicholas Fisch) defended their final capstone projects this Tuesday night.

From Boland and Bronte to Carver and Morrison, each student presented their in-depth research projects on specific authors and works as a cumulation of their past three-and-a-half years at Loras.

Midwestern kindness meets the world’s culture

Midwestern personality. Small town wave. Overly friendly. Weirdo who smiles a lot. Regardless of what you have deemed it, these phrases are indicative of the person who you pass walking on the sidewalk who makes eye-contact, smiles and waves or says hello. This type of person is stereotypically from a small town; on this campus, stereotypically a small town in Iowa. These people have grown up knowing most people in their town, or at least someone that person is related to so-and-so or whatnot. Smiling and waving at the people they pass has become second nature, it is a habit. But the reception that these “friendly Midwesterners” receive varies.

I am a “friendly Midwesterner” in that I smile, wave, and make an effort to make eye contact with the people I pass by, regardless of whether or not I know them. I fit the stereotype in many ways: I am from a small town in Iowa, I was raised knowing the majority of people in my town, and I would say that I am more rural than urban. I am not shy, I wave like crazy at people I have met once, I shout a raucous hello from across campus at those whose faces I recognize, and I say hello to the people I pass, regardless of whether or not I know them at all. But, I wouldn’t say I am incredibly friendly, or even a great person in general. I mainly say that because… I get mad.

Like really mad when those people I pass don’t reply to me. And you should NOT get a “friendly” Midwesterner mad.

I understand that you may not have grown up used to having strangers wave and ask how your day as been going, or you haven’t done this yourself. You haven’t had the habit ingrained into your nature. But, come on, people. You all should have learned basic social skills, and how to be polite. I am not asking you to be the first to extend a greeting, or to make eye contact with me, but for heaven’s sake, people, if I say something nice to you, you damn well better reply. Or at LEAST return my eye contact.

The first time I was snubbed, I took it as a personal offence. I asked the friends I was walking with if I had said something offensive or called the person by the wrong name. They assured me I hadn’t and said maybe that person had simply not heard me.

But after person after person walked past me without acknowledging my greetings, I realized something: people suck. They are rude and impersonal. This realization has only increased the vigor with which I greet people, however. Now, if I extend a polite greeting and am ignored, I loudly exclaim to the people I am walking with that it is rude not to reply when someone says “hello” to you, or asks how your day has been. These comments are spiteful, and pronounced loudly enough to be heard by the offender. Is this childish? Perhaps. But it is also childish to not reply when someone offers a polite greeting and I am not going to stop until people start replying.

I have a dream: someday I will walk from one end of this campus to the other and every single person I pass will reply politely to my greeting. Everyone will become a “friendly Midwesterner” and eventually, even that stereotype will disappear and we will become friendly people. Then, someday (in my dream world) we will just be people, gladly greeting each other politely regardless of whether or not we know them. Wouldn’t that be nice?

Invest in Yourself Don’t let price markups keep you from a healthy lifestyle

by COLIN HALBMAIER | co-executive editor

The life of a college student is a busy one. We wake up, shower (hopefully), run off to class, go to meetings, finish off that pesky group project, do our homework and if we’re lucky, sleep. Did I miss something? That’s right—you need to eat!

Far too often, one of two things happens: either we forgo eating altogether, or we grab a candy bar and pass it off as a meal. While either of these options may seem wise in the moment, they can be a problem in the long run. What we often fail to realize is the true value of our health. If we aren’t eating properly, then our performance as a whole suffers. We get sick, we can’t focus in class and all the time that we think we’re saving is actually made up in the long haul—and then some.

Many of us are also too frugal to invest in a proper meal. Unfortunately, sweets tend to be cheaper than actual food here on campus, making it difficult to find an actual meal on the fly. So what can be done about this? Rearrange your priorities to make sure taking care of yourself is on the top of that list. It may cost a little more, but the payoff is more valuable than the cost itself.

Here are some ways you can ensure that you have a good meal to keep you going throughout the day, without sacrificing your own health: • Plan ahead. This method sounds so simple, but the reality is that most students don’t think this way. Make a sandwich or two the night before to stick in your backpack and whip out whenever necessary. Pick up a pack of granola bars and keep them in your cupboard; it’s cheaper to buy a box than an individual bar, and you have a stockpile accessible at all times.

• Cook ahead. If you’re making your evening meal, make a little extra for tomorrow. There are microwaves scattered around campus if you need to reheat something, and seal-able containers are cheap and plentiful. It’s a step up from processed cereal bars, and you’ll likely feel fuller as a result.

• Pay ahead. If time is money, spend it on things that matter, such as your health. If you can’t find time in your schedule to prepare a full meal, let someone else do the work for you! Hy-Vee has a line of “Short Cuts” products including pre-cut peppers and onions, great for stir fry and fajitas. Just cut the plastic wrap and drop them in the pan. They may look a little more expensive than the individual products, and you’d be right. However, you’re guaranteed freshness and a quick meal. You can also find a plethora of frozen goods in your local grocery store that come close to freshness.

Being cheap comes with a price. College students are known for their ramen consumption because it’s easy and affordable — but keep in mind what you’re eating.

There’s a lot of sodium in that seasoning packet, and that can come back to haunt you in the form of heart disease, high blood pressure, headaches, water retention (which leads to weight gain) and enlarged kidney stones (ouch!). So be smart with your time, and invest it in your lifestyle. You may think you’re saving money now, but you’re pre-paying for a life that will truly pay off.

Mind & Soul

The Lorian

TIPS with 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. Although the Lorian is going on hiatus until next semester, please 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.

The Turkey Dump Trish,

I’m a first year student from the suburbs. I have been dating this guy from home for over a year. We went to high school together and before dating we were friends for a long time. I still care about him but am thinking about breaking up when I go home for Thanksgiving. The long distance thing is hard and besides that, I feel guilty for even hanging out with other guys here at Loras. Is this common?

—#OverIt

Trish says:

Ahhhhhhhh, “the turkey dump”. We happen to be entering one of the highest times of the year for break ups. In fact, the turkey dump, as it is affectionately called, refers to the phenomenon in which college freshman return home for the Thanksgiving holiday, only to break up with their high school sweethearts.

You are not alone. It is not uncommon for students to leave for college with romantic high school relationships still in tack. They provide some comfort and security when starting a new stage of life.

It is nice to be able to share things with someone who is familiar and reminds you of home. After you get settled, though, the relationship can become more work. Long distance relationships require trust, open communication, loyalty as well as a lot of time. It is hard to find time when you are working on managing academics and a new social life and living situation. (Which is what you should be focusing on, by the way.)

Freshman year starts a new chapter in your life and can be an exciting time of self-discovery. It’s okay to want to experience new things and explore new relationships. Sounds like you are starting to feel like the high school relationship is holding you back. Talk to your boyfriend, face to face, and be honest with him while you let him down easy. In some ways the timing may be good because both of you will most likely be surrounded by family and friends and can be comforted by the tastes of turkey and mashed potatoes.

I should add, though, while there is some truth to the tale of the turkey dump, it doesn’t apply to everyone. There are couples that do make it work and find out that the connection that started in the early years has been built on solid ground and is worth keeping despite the demands that go with a long distance relationship. I’ve been married to my high school sweetheart for 20 years. He went to Loras while I went to the University of Iowa. We tried breaking up for a few months and decided that what we had wasn’t worth losing. So whether you are the dumper, the dumpee, or neither, enjoy your Thanksgiving break.

You deserve it.

Nov. 20, 2014

Home for the Holidays Trish, All of my friends are so excited to go home for the holidays. I’m not.

Unfortunately, I don’t have the best home situation. My parents aren’t together. I lived with my mom and brothers during high school and I couldn’t wait to go to college. I feel like I need to go home because my brothers are looking forward to seeing me. The problem is that my mom can be really mean and controlling. We fight constantly. A weekend with her is too long. How am I going to manage being there a month because I’m not taking a J term?

—Unfortunately Home for the Holidays

Trish says: As a society we are programmed to think that the holidays are the best time of the year. Unfortunately, this is not the case for some of us. In fact, the huge hype about the “most wonderful time of the year” makes those of us with loss, family issues and financial stress feel even crappier. (Is that a word? If it isn’t, it should be.)

Holidays tend to bring on more stress and anxiety for many because of the increase of family interactions. If being home for an extended period of time creates stress for you, here are some things to keep in mind. Try setting a time limit on family gatherings. If you have to go, just tell yourself that it is only for a certain amount of time. Make contact with friends from home ahead of time so that you have an outlet when things become stressful. Plus, your friends at home likely know about your situation anyway and can be supportive. Another thing to consider is to work over the holiday break to give you a reprieve from the chaos.

Other thoughts include creating a good sounding board for yourself to give your life some perspective. Consider journaling or blogging to get the negative feelings out of your head. Lastly, identify what triggers your arguments with your mom. If you can’t communicate directly and appropriately with her, just work to avoid the power struggles. Selfknowledge is power. Preparing yourself ahead of time can keep your anger in perspective since you can’t control your mother.

Best wishes for some happy holidays. Hope you still enjoy some quality time with your brothers.

What are you looking for? the life that is true life: Spiritual Preparation

by FR. GROSS | for the Lorian

We are almost to Thanksgiving and when we come back to campus, we will begin the Season of Advent which prepares us for the great feast of Christmas. Advent is one of two major preparation seasons in the Church year, the other one being Lent in preparation for Easter. One of the ways that Christians have prepared for the two most important feast days (Christmas and Easter) of the year is by celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation. When we approach feasts that celebrate the great deeds of the Lord, we express our thanks by receiving the gift that

God wants to give to us, forgiveness.

Jesus’ first job was the forgiveness of sins. The forgiveness of sins allows us to be in relationship with God. If we are in relationship with God then we are prepared to experience the Kingdom of God on Earth in mystery and to experience it fully in the life to come. So if you have been away from the Sacrament of Confession, remember how good God is. The thoughts and feelings that prevent us from going to Confession try to distract us from experiencing the gift that we desire the most: healing, forgiveness, friendship with God, a new start, and God taking a greater hold in our hearts. Jesus is good. Come to Him with your burdens and sins and he will refresh you.

On Wednesday December 3rd we will celebrate our Advent Reconciliation Service in Christ the King Chapel at 8 p.m. We will move back Mass to 5 p.m. We have invited other priests to come and celebrate the Sacrament. So before you go back home, be renewed in Christ and have the best Christmas ever! A Christmas in Jesus’ deep friendship: that’s the best Christmas gift you can give to the baby Jesus!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving break and I will see you when you come back!

MASS TIMES at Christ the King 5:15 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9 p.m. Wednesday 8 p.m. Sunday

ADORATION at St. Joseph’s Chapel 9 to 10 a.m. |12:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday thru Friday

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The Lorian

Nov. 20, 2014

Sports

Duhawks run all the way to Nationals Men’s cross-country team places 2nd at Regionals, women place 13th Central Regional Championship Results Loras top finishers Name..................................... Finish Time 1. Ty Wittman.............................................. 7th 24:13.4 2. Rob Howe................................................9th 25:06.5 3. Sam Whan .............................................17th 25:26.5 4. Timothy Sevcik.....................................21st 25:33.3 5. Steve Loran...........................................24th 25:40.5 Loras Men.................. 2nd out of 27 teams Name....................................... Finish Time 1. Brianne Cook........................................28th 22:44.5 2. Emily Day...............................................74th 23:44.1 3. Maggie Saenz-Ruiz............................75th 23:46.8 4. Lindsey Gidel........................................76th 23:47.0 5. Sydney Brokaw....................................85th 23:50.9 Loras Women........... 13th out of 27 teams

by BILL BARRY | sportswriter

After earning the Iowa Conference title only two weeks ago, the Duhawk men’s cross-country team continued their success last weekend with a second-place finish at the Central Regional.

The men’s second-place finish means an automatic qualification to the NCAA Division III Cross Country National Championships. The Duhawks achieved this second-place mark in front of Central College, only two weeks after upsetting the Dutch in the Iowa Conference Championships.

The second-place finish behind No. 3 St. Olaf marks the Duhawks’ first automatic bid since the NCAA moved from one to two qualifiers at regionals in 2006.

The women’s cross-country team capped off their season with a 13th-place finish at

The success of the team so far in the postseason is no coincidence. When asked what is the most significant factor leading to their continued success, Howe cited hard work in the offseason.

“We had four guys run over 1,000 miles this summer, and several others who have run more than they’ve ever run before,” Howe said. “It also helps with workouts when you have a lot of guys running together and pushing each other.”

This pushing of one another has been evident, as new faces have emerged in the Loras top-five at Regionals. First-year Timothy Sevcik turned in an impressive personal performance, as he rolled in as the fourth finisher for the Duhawks. Sevcik shaved off nearly 30 seconds from his previous personal record, which he set two weeks ago at the Iowa Conference Championships. The Loras top-five was rounded out by senior Steve Loran, who secured 24th place.

The Duhawks’ consistent performances this late in the year can be credited to Iowa Conference Coach of the Year Bob Schultz. In addition to Coach Schultz, junior Sam Whan thinks the team has shown leadership collectively. photo by KATHERINE EDWARDS “Everyone has stepped up this year Junior Sam Whan digs in for the home stretch last weekend at the Regional Championships through and through,” Whan said. in Pella. Whan finished third among Loras runners and took 17th overall.

“I’ve seen amazing leadership from every class on the team. It’s a group of Regionals. The Duhawks were led by the The Duhawk men were once again carried dedicated men all with the same goal.” swift pace of junior Bri Cook, who finished by senior leader Ty Wittman, marking the The distributed leadership was recog28th overall. Following Cook, were sopho- fourth consecutive race that Wittman has nized, as each of top-five Loras finishers mores Emily Day, Maggie Saenz-Ruiz and led the team. Wittman took seventh overall earned All-Region honors.

Lindsey Gidel, who claimed 74th, 75th and in the race and was quickly followed in by The automatic bid earns the Duhawks a 76th respectively. First-year Sydney Brokaw fellow senior Rob Howe, who placed ninth spot to race for their ultimate goal, a high emerged as a Duhawk to keep an eye on in overall. Junior Sam Whan tallied the third finish at the NCAA Division III National the future, as she rounded out the top-five top-20 finish for Loras by placing 17th over- Championships next weekend in Mason, for the Loras women at 85th. all.

Ohio.

Women’s basketball gears up Duhawks begin season 1-1 behind the sharp shooting of Phillips, Goede Women’s basketball season statistics Player.........................G MPG FG% APG RPG SPG BPG PPG Kaitlin Phillips................... 2 24.0 .393 2.0 5.0 2.0 0.0 21.0 Carly Goede....................... 2 29.5 .632 1.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 14.5 Lori Obendorf................... 2 20.0 .667 0.5 13.0 1.5 2.5 10.0 Kathleen Cabrera............ 2 27.0 .368 2.5 5.0 1.0 0.0 9.5 Victoria May...................... 2 24.0 .500 2.0 5.0 0.5 0.0 7.5 Callie Johnson.................. 1 10.0 .500 2.0 3.0 0.0 0.0 7.0 Therese McMahon.......... 2 10.0 .625 0.0 2.0 0.0 0.0 6.0 Erin Weaver........................ 1 12.0 .000 0.0 3.0 0.0 0.0 6.0 Naomi Phillips................... 2 9.0 .286 0.0 2.5 0.0 0.0 3.5 Kate Moriarty.................... 2 5.0 .200 0.0 1.5 0.5 0.0 2.0 Miranda Chapman.......... 2 13.0 .250 0.0 1.0 0.5 0.0 1.5 Emma Bradford................ 2 2.5 .000 0.0 1.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 Brooke Prososki-Green... 2 7.5 .000 0.5 0.5 0.0 0.5 0.0 Lauren Stanich................. 2 7.5 .000 1.5 1.5 0.5 0.0 0.0 Kelly Barzowski................ 2 7.0 . 000 0.0 0.5 0.5 0.0 0.0 Morgan Gerard................. 1 6.0 . 000 0.0 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

by RYAN GRAHAM | sports editor

Replacing seniors is never an easy task.

For Loras, this task is even more daunting, especially when one of its seniors was the conference MVP and Co-Defensive Player of the Year.

“As far as making up for Katie Langmeier, we’re going to need to do it by committee,” said head coach Justin Heinzen. “Victoria (May) will need to step into a bigger role defensively. Offensively, we’ll need to be more balanced from the scoring end. I think we’re talented enough to do it.”

The Duhawks got their first chance to display this talent last weekend at the University of Dubuque Tournament. After a fast start against UW-Platteville, the Duhawks squandered a 44-31 halftime lead to fall to the Pioneers 70-67. A slew of missed shots down the stretch made the difference.

“Against Platteville, we missed 24 lay-ups,” said Heinzen. “I think Platteville’s a different game if we take care of the easy ones—the lay-ups and free throws.”

The Duhawks (1-1) rebounded in their second game of the tournament by knocking off Edgewood College 99-71.

“Against Platteville, from three-feet-and-in, we shot 24 percent,” Heinzen said. “Against Edgewood, from three-feet-and-in, we shot 58 percent.

We did a much better job finishing possessions.”

After two games, it appears that the Loras offense will run primarily through junior guard Kaitlin Phillips, who leads the team in scoring with 21 points per game.

“If we’re playing fast, Kaitlin will thrive,” said Heinzen. “We have a good compliment of other guards to help her out. I think if she were the only guard, things would be a lot different. If we didn’t have Carly (Goede) and Kat (Cabrera) around, people could key on her a little more.”

Senior Carly Goede, a transfer from the University of Illinois at Springfield, has already worked her way into a starting role for the Duhawks. In two games, Goede is the Duhawks’ second leading scorer with 14.5 points per game.

“She’s our best shooter,” said Heinzen of Goede.

“As she gets more comfortable with the dynamics of the team, we’ll be asking a lot from her every day.”

The Duhawks have also benefited from the improved play of several underclassmen who have stepped into more prominent roles. Most notably, sophomore Lori Obendorf, who led the team in blocks last season despite playing only 13 minutes per game, has taken advantage of her newfound role as the starting center for the Duhawks. Obendorf is averaging 10 points, 13 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game.

“What helped Lori was that she had to guard Langmeier every day,” said Heinzen. “You saw toward the end of last season that she was getting ready to step into a big role. She’s a sponge for the game, she grasps concepts so well. It’s been a great start for her.”

The Duhawks have a tough road ahead of them before they begin conference play in early January.

“We still have a long way to go,” said Heinzen.

“Over the next three weeks, we’re going through the gauntlet, with six opponents ranked in the Top25. We need to trust that we’ll get better. How we come out of those games from a win-loss perspective doesn’t really bother me as long as we’re improving and ready to go by January 7th. That’s the goal—to win conference.”

The Duhawks’ next game will take place Wednesday at Beloit College. The late result can be found on Duhawks.com.

Sports

The Lorian

Nov. 20, 2014

11

DREW’S VIEWS

Something, something, Dark Side ...

Junior Mirko Grcic posts up Brandon Tyson of Rockford during the Duhawks’ 88-85 win over the Regents Tuesday night. In the Duhawks’ season opener against Edgewood, Grcic filled up the stat sheet, dropping 34 points and collecting 24 rebounds in an 89-84 overtime victory.

I

n what seems like a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, the New England Patriots were a marginalized franchise in the National Football League. Before “Tom Terrific” and “The Drew Brashaw Hoodie,” the Pats asst. sports editor spent decades mired in mediocrity. Sure, they made it to a Super Bowl in the mid-80’s, but all you kids from the Chicago suburbs can ask your dads how well that worked out for New England. They reached another Super Bowl in the mid-90’s under head coach Bill Parcells, but Brett Favre and Reggie White were there waiting for them.

The Patriots didn’t start becoming the perennial powerhouse we know today until the year 2000, when they hired Bill Belichick – effectively joining The Dark Side.

That’s right, kids: I’m taking the NFL to the “Star Wars” universe this week.

Bill Belichick is the NFL’s version of Emperor Palpatine, the menacing, hooded Sith Lord bent on conquering the universe through the use of magic and pure evil.

Think about it: His nefarious plots to subvert sportsmanship; the way he tries to control the minds of media members by repeating the same thing over and over again; the way he successfully cloned Wes Welker to create Julian Edelman – it’s not that big of a stretch.

But the Emperor, like Belichick, couldn’t accomplish his goals on his own; he needed an apprentice. For Palpatine, it was Darth Vader; for Belichick, it was an unheralded quarterback out of the University of Michigan named Tom Brady (who, like Vader, is lanky and unathletic).

Together, Emperor Palpachick and Darth Brady mounted a brutal assault on the entire NFL galaxy. When the Patriots captured an improbable victory over the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI, it was a direct parallel to Palpatine seizing control of the Imperial Senate in a surprise coup. Two years later, by winning backto-back championships over the Panthers and Eagles, The Hoodie and his dark apprentice had established their Galactic Empire.

“But Drew,” you’re saying, “That was the last time New England actually won the Super Bowl, and it was ten years ago, and you haven’t even gotten to ‘A New Hope’ yet!”

Calm down, nerds. I’m getting to the good stuff.

That’s right, The Patriots haven’t won a Super Bowl in a decade, but they have come harrowingly close a number of times in the years since. Remember 2007? That was New England’s Death Star.

50 touchdown passes by Darth Brady, 23 of them to Randy “Boba Fett” Moss, 589 points scored, 16-0 regular season record; That’s no moon…

After pulling an Alderaan Special on the San Diego Chargers in the AFC Championship Game, it looked as if nothing could stop Emperor Palpachick and Darth Brady. But this seeminglyunstoppable weapon of planetary destruction had a weakness. There was an exposed exhaust port – just about the size of David Tyree’s helmet – and a messyhaired kid straight off the farm stuck a photon torpedo in it and blew up the whole thing.

Undaunted, The Pats tried to build another Death Star in the 2011 season.

This Death Star wasn’t quite finished yet, but it looked deadly enough in the AFC playoffs. What happened next? The same little hayseed from Tattooine (Tom Coughlin is Obi-Wan Kenobi, if you were wondering. Archie and Peyton are Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru) showed up and ragtagged another Death Star into oblivion.

This year, the Patriots look poised to make another run at galactic domination.

Can New England finally get back to the top of the NFL universe?

Only J.J. Abrams knows.

photo by KATHERINE EDWARDS

Duhawks win a pair of nail-biters Loras (2-0) starts season with wins over Edgewood and Rockford Loras 88, Rockford 85 Player.................... FG 3pt FT Reb Ast Pts. 21 VanWambeke......4-11 0-3 13-15 7 1 21 10 Schueller...............5-11 2-7 7-10 4 0 19 22 Grcic.......................4-11 0-0 4-10 9 2 12 20 Harmening........... 3-6 0-3 5-8 2 0 11 32 Criss..........................2-7 0-3 6-10 3 3 10 23 Quinn.......................2-3 0-0 2-4 4 2 6 42 Bourke.....................2-3 0-0 2-3 1 0 6 34 Schneider...............1-3 0-0 1-2 6 1 3 24 Takes....................... 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 Loras...........................23-55 2-16 40-62 38 9 88 Rockford..................27-63 5-17 26-33 46 6 85

by KATIE TRUESDALE | sportswriter

The Duhawks’ season got off to a good start as they defeated Edgewood College in overtime Saturday in Madison.

With a strong starting lineup the Duhawks didn’t waste any time taking the ball to the rim and claimed a 35-31 lead at half. Junior post player Mirko Grcic dominated in the paint with 13 points and 9 rebounds in the first half.

Edgewood came out firing in the second half to claim a three point lead with under a minute to go.

With 0:09 left in the game, senior Aaron Schueller sank the tying three pointer to put the game into overtime.

“Before Schueller made the three,

coach Buddy said that if we get this Rockford College. thing to overtime we’re going to win,” After holding only a slim 33-31 lead said Grcic. “With Schueller hitting the at the half, the Duhawks went on an big three and us getting a great defensive 11-0 run in the second, which appeared stop at the other end, we knew that we to give them control of the game. Rockwere going to come out with a victory in ford would strike back however, and the overtime.”

Regents brought the score within one, After five minutes of overtime and an- before Schueller made a pair of clutch other three pointer from free throws to seal it for Schueller to finish off the the Duhawks. game, the Duhawks headThe Duhawks (2-0) ed home with an 89-84 now have a quick turnwin. The Duhawks were around, with games Friable to score 13 points in day and Saturday against the overtime, while EdgeMount Mercy and Princiwood only eight. pa.

Although the Duhawks “The coaching staff lost three critical seniors, has done a great job of the men weren’t lacking managing our practice on the offensive end. time and our off days,” Grcic had 34 points and said Grcic. “We have a Schueller chipped in with great system where we 20. have enough time before “Each game that we a game to go full speed play, we have a mentaland enough time to rest ity that we are going to and get mentally precome out with a victory,” pared for our opponent. said Grcic. “It’s great to With four games in seven start off the season with a photo by KATHERINE EDWARDS days, we as a team need road victory but we know The Duhawks did most to be mentally focused we still have things to im- of their damage from the and rested physically. prove on.” line Tuesday night, hitting On Tuesday night, the 40-62 free throws, including What better way to start the season off with four Duhawks played yet an- several down the stretch to straight home games?” other close game against seal the victory.

Men’s soccer to face true test in Tourney No. 7 Loras set to take on No. 2 Trinity (Texas) in Sweet 16 Loras 2, Gustavus Adolphus 0 (NCAA Tournament Second Round)

1 2 F

No. 7 Loras

1 1 2

No. 23 Gustavus Adolphus 0 0 0 43:19 LOR 56:31 LOR

Mike Pizzello (JD Perez) Richard Lenke (Dillon Olson)

by FRANK FERNANDEZ | sportswriter

Despite falling in the Iowa Conference Tournament Championship, the Duhawks hosted the regional round, or first two rounds of the NCAA Division III Tournament.

Their playoff run began with a game against the Westminster College Blue Jays.

With temperatures in the 20s and flurries falling from the sky, both teams started slowly and combined for only 11 shots in the first half. Westminster only challenged sophomore goalie Adam Roloff once in the game, when Dustin Seabolt’s header was deflected away by Roloff in the 33rd minute. While the Duhawks had a number of promising opportunities, they could not find the back of the net and the game remained

scoreless going into the half.

As the second half began, the intensity and physicality picked up on both sides. The Duhawks’ swarming attack tested Westminster goalie Raul Belman Romero often. In the 66th minute, seniors Dillon Olsen and Richard Lenke connected to set up a scoring chance for the Duhawks. Lenke lifted the ball over Romero, where first-year Spencer Moore was waiting to score the winner.

The game was put on ice when first-year Ike Burns took the ball up the near sideline and sent a pass to senior Mike Pizzello. The captain gathered himself at the top of the 18 and added the insurance goal to give the Duhawks a 2-0 victory.

With this win, the Duhawks advanced to the Regional Final against No. 23 Gustavus Aldophus College with a chance to head to the Sweet 16.

From the beginning, both sides tried to control the game at their own pace, with the Gusties playing lots of short passes and the Duhawks trying to utilize their aerial attack.

Coach Dan Rothert knew that his side needed to take advantage of their height if they wanted to advance to the sectional round.

“I knew that if we were able to get the ball in the air, we could make the most of those opportunities,” Rothert said.

His words rang true, when senior JD Pe-

rez stepped up to take a free kick with time winding down in the first half. Perez sent a beautiful ball towards Pizzello, who used his size to flick the ball into the back of the net.

The goal advantage was just what the Duhawks needed going into half.

As the second half began, the Duhawks knew they needed to increase their lead to keep the Gusties at bay. They took seven shots in the first eight minutes of the half, with four of them on target.

In the 57th minute, the Duhawks cashed in on these opportunities when Dillon Olson intercepted a pass in the Gusties’ half and found Richard Lenke who connected to increase the advantage to two.

As the game wore on, the Duhawks kept their momentum and their defense was able to keep the Gusties off the board. The clock struck zero and the Duhawk players leaped into the stands to celebrate with their fans who supported them despite the freezing temperatures.

The Duhawks now move into the sectional round for the third consecutive year and eighth time in the program history. They will face the No. 2 Trinity University (TX) Tigers in Wheaton, Illinois on Friday, Nov. 21. The two teams met last year in the sectional final at the Rock Bowl, with the Duhawks securing a 2-1 victory and a trip to the final four.

12

The Lorian

Sports

Nov. 20, 2014

COACH’S CORNER

The 7 circles of basketball hell GRAHAM SLAM

photo courtesy of JIM NAPRSTEK

Senior wide receiver Nate Even sets single-season Loras records for receptions (77) and yards (1,286) during the Duhawks 81-21 loss to No. 5 Wartburg.

A big step in the right direction Loras sees its season come to a close; Even breaks 2 receiving records Wartburg 81, Loras 21 Loras (3-9, 2-5) 0 0 14 7 21 Wartburg (10-0, 7-0) 28 28 19 6 81 Robert Kelly Nate Carrier Nate Even Calvin Harridge

15-42, 206 yards, 3 TD, 3 INT 17 carries, 91 yards 7 receptions, 155 yards, 3 TD 9 tackles, 1 TFL

1st quarter WAR 12:04 WAR 8:51 WAR 6:42 WAR 1:46

2nd quarter WAR 11:32 WAR 9:14 WAR 6:39 WAR 2:42

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

35 42 49 56

Lor War

Haberman 53 yd run (Sabus kick) Even 72 yds from Kelly (Quigley kick) Hammel 65-yd run (Sabus kick failed) Dewald 5-yd run (Sabus kick failed) Even 11 yds from Kelly (Quigley kick)

4th quarter

7 14 21 28

Lor War

Holsteen 30 yds from Schrader (Bohlke kick) Ebert 29 yds from Schrader (Bohlke kick) Domeyer 3-yd run (Bohlke kick) Haberman 17 yd run (Bohlke kick)

3rd quarter WAR 13:34 LOR 7:32 WAR 6:29 WAR 5:58 LOR 3:07

Lor War

Richardson 27-yd run (Bohlke kick Domeyer 1-yd run (Bohlke kick) Domeyer 53-yd run (Bohlke kick) Rahm 32 yds from Schrader (Bohlke kick)

0 7 7 7 14

63 63 69 75 75

Lor War

LOR 13:39 Even 20 yds from Kelly (Quigley kick) WAR 2:34 Davis 33 yd run (Sabus rush failed)

21 21

75 81

by DREW BRASHAW | asst. sports editor

The Loras football season came to a close last weekend with a lopsided loss in the snow at Wartburg, but senior wide receiver Nate Even provided redhot punctuation to a 2014 campaign that saw the Duhawk offense rise more than 100 spots in the national rankings.

Even’s seven receptions for 155 yards and three touchdowns against the undefeated, fifth-ranked Knights capped a record-breaking season for the Iowa Conference’s top pass-catcher. His 77 receptions and 1,286 yards are both are school records for a single season, eclipsing the marks set by Lor-

as’ Kendall Griffin in 1992. Even’s yard“Zero first-years quit during the age total ranks him fifth in Division III. season,” Helminiak said, adding, “It’s “We’re really excited for Nate,” unheard of. It doesn’t happen at any said head coach Steve Helminiak. “I level, anywhere. I think it says a lot was fortunate enough to have been on about the leadership on our team, and Coach (Bob) Bierie’s staff when Kendall the kind of guys we have in our proGriffin played here, and he was a really gram.” special player.”

Although some amount of player For Nate Even, individual accom- turnover is inevitable over the offplishments take a backseat to the big- season, most of Loras’ fifty first-year ger picture. players are expected to return to the “It’s cool to get those kinds of ac- team in 2015. colades, but it’s really a team effort,” Also returning next season is Even, Even said. “I’ve got to give thanks to who was granted an extra year of elall of the guys who’ve been there for igibility on a medical redshirt after me throughout the year – the coaches, fracturing his clavicle in 2013. all of my teammates – without them I “We’re not there yet,” said Even. wouldn’t be able to do it at all.”

That team effort, along with a new “We’ve still got plenty of room to pass-happy offensive scheme, have grow.” paid big dividends for a unit that was Much of that growth rests on the ranked dead-last in all of college foot- arm of first-year quarterback Robert ball last season. In Helminiak’s first Kelly, who was thrust into the starting year as head coach, the Duhawks have role after veteran starter Dylan Jones erased that stigma, nearly doubling suffered a season-ending knee injury their offensive output from a year ago in week 3. Kelly targeted Even earand earning more victories than in the ly and often throughout the season. previous two seasons combined.

Coach Helminiak spoke about what it Helminiak characterized his team’s means for a young quarterback to have such a dependable receiver: identity as “mentally tough.”

“It gives your quarterback a lot “Coming off a tough era of Loras football, it’s probably really easy for of confidence. He feels like there’s a guys to fold mentally, and be looking guy he can go to. That can be a doufor reasons not to continue to play hard ble-edged sword in that maybe he goes and fight on. The most positive things to him too much, but I don’t know if you can go to Nate Even too much.” that came out of this season were our attitude, our effort, and our perseverance. Those three things are the descriptive words for what I felt we represented this NCAA Division III rankings (of 242 teams) year.”

Statistic 2013 2014 Of all the statistical accomTotal offense 182.9 (Last) 351.9 (141st) plishments made by the Duhawks this year, one exemplified Passing offense 97.1 (229th) 269.0 (43rd) 10.5 (Last) 18.3 (135th) this young team’s identity above First downs all: Points/game 8.6 (240th) 20.3 (177th)

Offense improves under Helminiak

Wrestlers prepare for tough test First-years gain collegiate experience as Loras rests veterans at Luther Open Luther Open Results (Silver) Weight...................... Champion(s) 125.................................. Julian Gendreau (Luther) 133.............Maleek Williams (Unat. Upper Iowa) 141..............................................Logan Ryan (Unat.)

149....................Casey Crangle (Unat. Wisconsin) 157................Douglas Perrin (Unat. Upper Iowa) 165...................Andrew Dayland (UW-La Crosse) 174....................................... Burke Paddock (Unat.)

184.................. Wesley Schultz (Unat. Rochester) 197.............Chaydon O’Fallon (Minn. St. Mankato) 285........................................Sam Stoll (Unat. Iowa)

by DREW BRASHAW | asst. sports editor

Two second-place finishes highlighted the Duhawks’ trip to Decorah last weekend as Loras sent seven first-year wrestlers to compete in the Silver division of the Luther College Open.

Michael Triplett scored a pin-fall victory over Dakota Welsh of Minnesota State Mankato in his opening round matchup, and earned decisions in the quarter- and semifinal rounds to reach the finals in the 133lb. bracket. Triplett was forced to settle for a runner-up finish after losing an 18-9 major decision to Upper Iowa University’s Maleek Williams.

After receiving a first-round bye in the 197lb. bracket, Loras’ Awais Arain pinned MSOE’s Brandon Byal in just 60 seconds to advance to the semifinals, where he won a 10-3 decision over Jose Hernandez, also of MSOE. Arain met Minnesota State Mankato’s Chaydon O’Fallon in the championship round, with O’Fallon winning the hard-fought 3-2 decision.

149-pounder Jimmy Davis got off to an explosive start in the tournament, but fell just short of placing.

Davis blanked Branden Schorr of St.

Johns for a 15-0 opening round tech fall, and then pinned Simpson’s Jonathan Melton in the second round.

Davis was bounced from the championship bracket after being pinned

by Minnesota State Mankato’s Dylan Herman in the quarterfinals.

The other Duhawks in competition at the Luther Open were Jake LaMantia and Charlie Roth at 125, along with 149-pounders Kylian Lally and Mike Falco.

Loras’ veteran wrestlers were held out of action in preparation for the CUW Open on Nov. 22, hosted by Concordia University Wisconsin.

“It will be a huge test for us,” said Duhawks’ head coach Randy Steward of the upcoming tournament.

“The field will consist almost entirely of D-III competition. It will be an extremely important day, with the possibility of NCAA seeds on the line for many of our wrestlers.”

T

he NBA is strange in that, more often than not, the landscape of the league remains stagnant. Barring a few big off-season deals like the ones that sent LeBron and Kevin Love to Cleveland, the league pretty much stays the same. The teams with the best players win, while others wade in a pool of their own mediocrity. When a team fails to win for a long period of time, it’s referred to Ryan Graham as “basketball hell.” Just as there were sports editor nine layers of hell in Dante’s “Inferno,” basketball hell is also tiered. Each level is more despondent and treacherous than the last. Come friends, travel with me through the seven circles of basketball hell.

First Circle (Limbo) Current Residents: Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets

Think Oklahoma City here. Think of the team that has the superstars, that has the depth, that has every reason to hoist the Championship trophy at the end of the year—but doesn’t. It almost seems as though these teams are destined by the basketball gods to play second-fiddle to the champs. We hear it every season—“This is their year.” Then, a poorly-timed injury here, an unlucky bounce there— and all of a sudden, the team is left scratching their heads as they watch the NBA Finals from the couch. I blame Kendrick Perkins.

Second Circle (Envy) Current Residents: Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, Portland Trailblazers

Chicago Bulls fans know this level of hell all too well. All we need is that second primary scorer! It would be so easy! If only we had Kevin Love! Carmelo! Dwight Howard! Um… Rudy Gay? Alright, fine. I guess we’ll just settle for a 34-year-old Pau Gasol. That’s what happens with teams in this level. They need that second superstar, so they pick up some expiring contracts and clear out cap space. They do everything in their power to put themselves in position to sign that LeBron or Carmelo to a max contract. But those superstars never come. So they settle for Carlos Boozer. Ugh.

Third Circle (Pride) Current Residents: Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, New Orleans Pelicans

Think of the Golden State Warriors. You have the glamor, the pageantry, the excitement. You have Steph Curry and Klay Thompson draining shots from 40 feet out. You have a KEWL nickname: “The Splash-Brothers.” You have Kenny “the Jet” Smith fawning over you on the TNT pregame show. But what you don’t have—is a chance in hell. All the flashiness is great. It’s fun to watch. It’s good for basketball. But when it comes to playoff time, Tim Duncan will fundamental his way to 20 and 10 and you’re going to lose.

Fourth Circle (Ignorance) Current Residents: New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, Sacramento Kings

There are some teams out there who, try as they might, can’t get out of their own way. Don’t get me wrong, they have the talent.

They have the depth. They should be a lot better than they are. But they’re not. Because they’re dumb. I don’t advise watching these teams play basketball. Studies show that an excessive amount of watching Carmelo isolate a defender, dribble the shot clock down to three and throw up a contested long two-pointer is bad for your mental health.

Fifth Circle (Incompetency) Current Residents: Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets

Think Minnesota Timberwolves. Year after year, teams like the Timberwolves acquire talent through the draft. That talent grows and reaches superstar status. Eventually, those superstars say, “Wait, this is Minnesota?!” and leave. It happened with Kevin Garnett. It happened this offseason with Kevin Love. The Timberwolves, and other incompetent franchises like them are essentially extensions of the NBA D-League.

Sixth Circle (Desperation) Current Residents: Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics

These teams have been on their descent through basketball hell for too long. Now they’re beginning to panic. They’re one bad contract away from rock bottom, and tanking the season is their only hope of escape. Here’s the plan: “We’re gonna sign Josh McRoberts… (I know, I know) and he’s gonna start for us…

(Hold on, just hear me out)… We’ll be bad for the next five years, accumulate lottery picks and then maybe by the year 2029, we’ll have a shot at the title!” Hey, it’s better than the alternative:

Seventh Circle (The Los Angeles Lakers) Current Residents: Los Angeles Lakers

From Dante’s “Inferno”: “He had three faces: one in front bloodred;” [aka Kobe] “And then another two that, just above the midpoint of each shoulder, joined the first; and at the crown, all three were reattached;” [aka the triangle offense] “The right looked somewhat yellow, somewhat white;” [aka Laker’s colors] Eerie, right? Could Dante’s “Inferno” have been a prediction of the Lakers descent into basketball hell? I don’t know. I’m not an expert in 14th century Literature.

What I do know is that the Lakers are bad. They have no star power outside of Kobe, no depth and worst of all— no hope for the future. They’re trapped, deep down in the furthest depths of basketball hell. There’s nothing to do now but wait until it all burns down to a pile of ashes and gets swept into the dust pan. Go ahead, keep shooting, Kobe.

It’ll all be over soon.