Friday, ctober 2, 2009 35k Minneapolis, Minnesota Auggie Wrestling Ready for Another Big Year MIKE GALLAGHER Stafl' Writer Ten time team national champions, 44 individual national champions, 21 straight top four finishes at nationals - Quite simply, Augsburg wrestling is the gold standard of... Show moreFriday, ctober 2, 2009 35k Minneapolis, Minnesota Auggie Wrestling Ready for Another Big Year MIKE GALLAGHER Stafl' Writer Ten time team national champions, 44 individual national champions, 21 straight top four finishes at nationals - Quite simply, Augsburg wrestling is the gold standard of athletic programs around this cam- pus. Don’t expect that to change this year, with the program coming ofi‘ a year in which they finished as runners up at the Division III Championships, the team is expected to return 32 letter winners from last year’s powerhouse squad. Those 32 returners are headlined by national champion Jerred Massey. He took the 197 pound title at nationals, and is ranked number one in the same weight class by the coaches association again this year. His supporting cast boasts a few more monsters of the mat, most notably fellow All-Americans Jason Adams and Andrew Witzel. Adams finished third in_the 157 pound weight class, and is ranked as the number one wrestler in his division as well. Witzel finished fifih in the heavyweight division last year, and is ranked fourth in the preseason poll at that division this year. lrnpressive resumes, and there’s no doubt head coach Mark Matzek knows where his bread will be buttered this year. “Those 32 returners are what’s making this team look as good as they are,” Matzek said. “They’ve retained everything they’ve been taught over the last couple of years, and they’re really taking the freshmen under their wing." The team did have a few key departures from the group that took second last year. Seth Flodeen, national champion at the 125 pound division in 2008, and fourth place finisher in 2009, has moved on from his dominant days at Augsburg. Travis Lang, who was ranked #1 in the 133 pound class going into the national tournament last year in which he finished fifih, is now out using his Augsburg education in the real world. Wiily Holst, who was Cross country ran to the finish line ranked #1 at the 149 pound weight class going into the tournament last year in which he also finished fifih, has also graduated. There are holes to fill, but when Augsburg’s recruiting class was announced, the tensions around Si-Melby Hall had to case a little. Augsburg brings in three state champions, 11 state qualifiers and one junior college All-American in their highly touted first year group. Matzek, who was a prolific wrestler himself at Augsburg, has no shortage of options at the three weight classes vacated by the former Auggie greats. Newcomers as well as returners have very impressive resumes and the competition for those three spots will certainly be heated, and the outcomes will be very important to team success this year. The anticipation is building for the Auggies with the season just over the horizon. They open by hosting the Adidas-Brute Open on Nov. 21. Having finished third and second the last two years, and so much tal- ent returning as well as arriving, Auggie wrestling is thinking big. “Our goal this year is to be national champions," said Matzek. “We’ve only won ten national titles in our 60 year program, so to set ourselves apart from other teams, we need to win the national title.” 5......“ Photo taken by: Stephen Gre LAURA More Stajf Writer Both men and women of the Augsburg cross country team competed at Como Park Golf Course last weekend, Oct. 31, for the MIAC championship meet. Conditions on Saturday were not ideal: clouds, strong winds, and a shivering 40 degrees chal- lenged each runner along their journey to the finish line. Augsburg men‘s cross country team claimed their highest finish in history, posting a fourth-place fin- ish out of eleven teams. Over 200 men competed on Saturday. Top Augsburg finishers included: Brent Hanglund, senior, finishing ninth; Ben Rodriguez, sophomore, fin- ishing 11th, and Shane Wybomy. senior, finishing 17th. Haglund commented on his mentality before this important race, “Going in to Conference I tried not to worry about time and place. I just wanted to give God the race and praise Him. After, I was disappointed with how I fin- ished. I didn’t feel that great in the race so I was frustrated. But I was very happy with the team coming in fourth.” Women’s cross country re- spectively finished 12th in the MIAC. Over 200 women com- peted in the event. Top Augsburg finishers included: Jennifer Lover- ing, junior, finishing 65th; Kacie Bahr, sophomore, finishing 78th, and Jennifer Pulscher, sophomore, finishing 80th. The championship meet was the highlight and point in the season when the team wanted to prove themselves as solid competitors. Cross country is both an individual sport and a team sport. Individu- ally one wants to improve his or her time, but as a teammate one needs a team in order to progress overall. Over the course of six meets, including championships, both men and women have stepped up as individuals and teammates. Most other athletes wouldn’t find running dozens of miles enjoyable, but these men and women thrive on the competition. In order for the men and women’s cross country teams to train for each meet and prepare themselves to perform their best at championships. every practice Page 3 SPORTS Women’s Hockey: Gearing up for a new season ED Smame Sports Editor The Augsburg women‘s hock- ey team is lacing up their ice skates in preparation for another season. This group of women has been working diligently in hopes to make this season even more successful than those of the past. Augsburg women’s hockey will host University of Wisconsin A Stevens Point this Friday night in the Augsburg Ice Arena for their season opener. With expectations riding high for this season, Andrea Toft, senior, displayed her expectations. “My main thing is to have a bet- ter season than we have had the last three years, and to make it to playoffs. That would be the best way to end my college hockey experience.” Keeping it in the family. Sara Toft, senior, joins her twin sister on the ice with similar vision concem- ing the upcoming season, "To go back to playing for the love ofthe game and not let anything else get in the way ofthat! Also. play hard and have fun!" These two women thrive on competition while not letting anything disrupt their passion and enjoyment of the game. A. Toft said that the strength of this year‘s woman‘s squadron is their depth, and then continued, “We have a better range ofexperi— ence on our team. We have strong seniors to bring three full years of experience and some good fresh— had to be challenging. Haglund described a typical practice. “We run a lot, 90 miles per week on average. A 2.5 mile warm up, 5x1 mile with 2 minute rest. and a 2.5 mile cool down.” Hard work and dedication helped these men and women improve and grow as a team. Each meet these student athletes contin- ued to improve and cut valuable seconds. Victor Sanchez, senior; Ben Rodriquez. senior: Matt Scha— fer, senior; all cut over a minute offtheir time since the beginning ofthe season. Jennifer Lovering,junior, has been the team’s lead runner by at least two minutes and 50 seconds all season long, and placed as high as 29th in the St. Olaflnvitational. Her career best time in the 6K race man to bring a new dynamic and work ethic.“ Not dwelling too much on her own pride. A. Toft recognized the coaching staff; without them, this team wouldn‘t even be possible. “Our new assistant coach Alyssa has Division 1 college hockey experience which 1 think is a great advantage!" Keeping focused on the team‘s many talents. A. Toft refused to disclose any weaknesses. An at- titude like this will be necessary if Augsburg women's hockey looks to make some noise in the MIAC this year. Despite being twins with simi— lar outlooks, S. Tofi tended to keep her focus on the “team” concept and the morality ofthe group. “It‘s necessary for us not let any drama or anything else get in the way of my love for the game!” This spirited game plan usu- ally finds itselfon the back burner of collegiate sports is today’s world — as it becomes more and more about competition these days. The true passion and love of the game will be a unique strategy the Auggies will look to take to the ice this season. The women‘s hockey force has been working long hours and training rigorously in preparing for this Friday evening. The game will start at 7:05 pm. for those who are interested in witnessing these determined ladies take the ice. All are encouraged to get out and support the female Auggies. is 23:25. “The championship meet will be the last for several seniors, many are sad to leave. but they have high hopes for the future of men‘s and women‘s cross coun- try," Haglund said. “I am really going to miss Augsburg cross country. We finally got a good size team this year and I am bummed I won‘t be with them again," Haglund stated, “And, there’s not a lot of Opportunity to run cross country after college, dang it!“ Haglund exclaimed that their coach Dennis Barker is the best there is, and this is only the begin— ning of many successful seasons for men’s and women's cross country. Contact our Sports Editor. Ed Shewen at: shewen@augsburg.edu Show less
Friday, October 2, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Page 5 OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS ' ,wx’r * Don’t’be s 2 Write for the ECHO. INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION WEEK 1 VARIETY SHOW Music Dance and More... Thursday, November 19"“, 7:00 PM, East Commons, Christensen Center Sponsored by: lntemational Augsburg Student... Show moreFriday, October 2, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Page 5 OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS ' ,wx’r * Don’t’be s 2 Write for the ECHO. INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION WEEK 1 VARIETY SHOW Music Dance and More... Thursday, November 19"“, 7:00 PM, East Commons, Christensen Center Sponsored by: lntemational Augsburg Student SAC Student \ Organization m Activities i Council Wl‘F Augsburg? ANDY MYERS Columnist It’s that time of year again, folks. Registration for Spring 2009-2010 classes is just around the comer. And if this is your first year at Augsburg, prepare for an unruly adventure. At 7 am. or 5 pm. on your respective day (depending on your last name and year) you may find yourselves screaming, “WTF Augnet online registration!” at the top of your lungs (roommates should be advised to wear earplugs, for which I recommend Walgreens, due to their reduced price on car pro- tection) like I have done so many times in the past (my apologies to Jens and Nick). The Augnet server has not, in the past, been capable of handling several hundred users at one time. Unless you play your cards right and log into Augnet before your scheduled time and have your tabs ready, you will most likely end up staring at a loading screen for dozens of minutes on end. “Well Andy, that sounds ridiculous.” Well, you’re damn right! Last year] foolishly waited until exactly 5 pm. to log into Augnet. 45 minutes later I was finally able to log in. 45 minutes! I tried multiple routes during that waiting time to gain access by other means. Obviously my first thought was to try logging in again, which didn‘t work, and then on a different computer, which also failed. After calling the Enrollment Center several times (which they of course did not answer, either because they were conveniently un-open [note the sarcasm] or they knew it was an enrollment issue). I eventually called the Student Technology number and spoke with the unfortunate. albeit fiiendly student worker. He informed me there was nothing he could do to help me, but did tell me that the server was so overloaded that he had never seen so many people on it at one time, He said that was most likely the reason I wasn’t able to log in. This issue was of course out of the student worker’s control. and he was unable to answer my ques- tion ofwhy Augnet was unable to handle just an eighth ofthe day—student population at one time. WTF. There are plenty ofcomplications with the registration process here at Augsburg (don‘t even get me started on the atrocities ofthe Enrollment Center ~ a future WTF article is most certainly on the way), and simply registering online should not be one ofthem. I implore the IT people to find a way to expand the Augnet server so that it is able to easily handle the several hundred users wanting to register. We the students, both current and future, all want a smooth online registration process that will allow us to register for the classes we need. IifiHanCHEEIEHFGEF I: .v -‘ /l ROGER HUELSNITZ huelsnir@augsburg.edu Cartoon by: Erica Malloy Show less
Louvre at MIA, page 6 The College’s Student—Produced Newspaper Chapel time?, page 4 Friday, November 6, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXVl, Issue 6 Intentional diversity shows on-campus results DAVE MADSEN News Editor While the overall enrollment at Augsburg College has steadily in- creased... Show moreLouvre at MIA, page 6 The College’s Student—Produced Newspaper Chapel time?, page 4 Friday, November 6, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXVl, Issue 6 Intentional diversity shows on-campus results DAVE MADSEN News Editor While the overall enrollment at Augsburg College has steadily in- creased over the past four years, so has the number of students of color. Since 2005, the number of individuals enrolled in day programs has jumped by over 250 students. Even considering that change, diversity percentages have also seen an increase. The amount of students of color has been climbing since 2005, and, in the current academic year, the enrollment profile shows that there are over 300 more students of color enrolled in the college’s day programs. When adjusted to reflect the school’s increase in enrollment, this data reveals that there has been over a 60 percent increase of students of color enrolled in Augsburg’s day programs. From an initial planning process headed by President Pribbenow in Febnrary of 2007, the college has been aiming to shape the community to reflect their refined mission statement. Trena Bolden Fields, as well as the school’s Diversity Committee, has facilitated action in specific administrative divisions. Augsburg’s Diversity Committee was developed in 1991 as a way for the President and the Board of Regents to better serve a changing campus community. After a campus-wide audit conducted by Vivian Jenkins Nelsen of INTER-RACE in 2002, the campus was found to have struggling numbers regarding race and accessibility. The audit revealed that students felt that the college was not pro- viding at atmosphere of diversity. According to the audit, “All but one focus group found Augsburg’s campus to be physically unwelcoming and inaccessible.” All participants agreed that Augsburg needed a working definition of diversity, as well as plans for communication and collaboration with surrounding communities. The audit also displayed that. “faculty and students found Augsburg to be neither emotionally welcoming nor sup- portive." In 2006, President Pribbenow questioned the Diversity Committee as to their contribution to a more diverse campus. Each administrative See DIVERSITY, page 2 350: The magic number ION PETERSON Stafl Writer Two Saturdays ago, Augsburg joined over 180 countries and thou- sands of events around the world in recognition of the lntemational Day of Climate Change. When environmentalist and economist Bill McKib- ben spoke at last month, he lefl the community with a call to action and what he referred to as “the most important number in the world, 350.” The number signifies 350 parts per million of C02 concentration in the earth’s atmosphere. Anything higher than this number would mean the slow degradation of all fortns of life as scientists determined in a scientific report for the United Nations stating that our current number was 387 parts per million. With world leaders meeting to discuss global warming next month in Copenhagen, the timing was pertinent in estab- lishing universal awareness of the climate cause. The event was called “the most widespread day of political action in world history.” At Augsburg, over one hundred people gathered for a free breakfast mostly local and organic food provided by Common Roots Café, St. Martin’s Table, Aviand’s and Peace Coffee, followed by live music provided by a few Auggies. Before long, the bicyclists were off to the capital as to join students from St. Kates, Macalester and the U of M. Speakers including Congressman Keith Ellison, Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Sen. Ellen Anderson, Reps. Kate Knuth and Jeremy Kalin, who all spoke on the importance of “keeping your voices loud” for energy reform. Senior Jessica Spanswick was the speaker who represented Augs- burg. Quoting Thomas Friedman, she encouraged people to “get off Photo taken by: Kendra Christiansen Facebook and get into people‘s faces" about environmental reform. Following the event in St. Paul, the animated Auggies returned to campus either via bus or bike to form a large 350 during the half-time of the Augsburg football game against Gustavus. The final part of the festivities involved a community walk to the bohemian flats beneath the U of M walking bridge. There, next to the polluted Mississippi River Augsburg students, faculty, staff and otherwise everyday Minneapolitans fittingly joined hands to construct for one last time, the number millions of people across the globe are sure to remember: 350. Auggies honor school saints PETER MILLER Stafl Writer On Monday, the Augsburg commu- nity gathered for Chapel to light candles, sing names, and remember life. Known as All Saints Day, on Nov. 1 C hris- tians around the world celebrated the lives of friends, family, and loved ones who died in the last year. These services are often solemn, prayerful, and reflective, but they praise the gift of life. This mixture of honor and solemnity, “especially for our campus and the losses we have endured. is important for mental and spiritual health.“ Noelle McComb said. The closeness of death and the continuation of grief necessitate times of remembrance. In the lighting of candles. Auggies signi- fied their connection to God and to the enduring flame of eternal life. For Pastor Dave Wold, this conscious, tangible reflection takes away some of the sting of and shadow of death. For him, a prayer from A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols crystallizes what All Saints Day is all about: “Let us remember before God all those who rejoice with us, but upon another shore and in a greater light, that multitude which no man can number, whose hope was in the Word made flesh, and with whom we for evennore are one.” This “greater light,” symbolized in the lighting of candles, burns to “carry on the pas- sions of the departed...and is part of the gift of Augsburg College, that we are more than physical and intellectual beings, we are spiritual beings. We celebrate a life because we know what a life means to this community” Pastor Wold said. This image represents light in the midst of darkness. hope in the midst of sorrow. Students, Faculty, and Staff joined to sing the names of members of the community who died in the last year. These names were echoed with the refrain, “Stay with us.” It was a personal response to a personal struggle. The theme of remembrance also ran through the lyrics of“For All the Saints," the closing hymn during the service. Written by William How, an Anglican Bishop. the lyrics attest to the struggle over grief and the comfort ofGod‘s love: “in the darkness drear/we feebly struggle/yet all are one in thee, for all are thine." “It’s hard because we get stuck in dis- tractions, and it’s easy to forget that there is a greater purpose. We don’t really know why we are here, but in a certain aspect everyone is remembered.” McComb said. When everyone is remembered, everyone feels the pain of loss and the joy of being loved. “People who are close to us shape who we are and our life experiences... you can be a saint anywhere to anyone,“ McComb said. Sainthood is knit together by community. people who share space and shape faith. Upcoming Augsburg 7| Events Pan-African Student Union Chill Night F riday. November 6 For our first chill night we are going to see a movie: Chris Rock‘s “Good Hair"! Join us. IT’S FREE! 7:15pm. Mortensen Hall Augsburg Business Org. Etiquetle Dinner Tlmrsdaty, November 12 Join Augsburg Alumni at the annual Etiquette Dinner. You must pre-register with CSWL. Students will enjoy dinner and an interactive presentation on business etiquette. 5:30pm, East Commons, Christensen Center International Student Org. IEW Variety Show Thursday, November 19 Students share culture and di— versity in a variety of perfor— mances celebrating 2009 In- ternational Education Week. 7:00pm, East Commons, Christensen Center Student Government Weekly Meeting Every Wedn esa'uy Weekly meeting for Day Stu- dent Government 7:00pm, Century Room Feminist Club Feminist Film Friday F riday, November 6 For FFF we will be watch- ing “SLAM.” a movie about poetry. Join us to relax, watch and discuss! 3:30pm to 5:30pm, Women’s Resource Center, Sverdrup 207 Show less
Page 2 NEWS OGC heats up with its first rave ASHLEY ABBATE Stafl Writer Techno music, disco balls, fog machines, and glow sticks; put that together with gyrating, dancing, bouncing bodes, and you have the makings of a great, colorful college experience. To sum that all up: Step Up knows how to... Show morePage 2 NEWS OGC heats up with its first rave ASHLEY ABBATE Stafl Writer Techno music, disco balls, fog machines, and glow sticks; put that together with gyrating, dancing, bouncing bodes, and you have the makings of a great, colorful college experience. To sum that all up: Step Up knows how to throw a rave, even with the few minor setbacks that threatened to shut it down. The rave was full of uplifting fun and was on the main floor of the Oren Gateway Center on Oct. 24. It started around 7 pm, or at least that was when the second floor of OGC started to vibrate, and ended around 11 pm. The dance itself didn’t have a large amount of people in atten- dance, but the people who were there were having a good time; you could see it in the way they were dancing. laughing, and waving their glow sticks around like there was no tomorrow. The people who did not come missed out. Groups of people took turns dancing fanatically and resting outside because it got so steamy on the dance floor that fresh, cold air was needed in great. frequent quantities. It was a shame that more people from the other dorms, because there were a few who came, didn’t’ show up to have some fun. The music, techno music to be specific, was vibrating and loud; in fact, it was so loud that the music came crashing into silence three times thanks to blown fuses. But no one seemed to worry about it. One person jokingly referred to it as “a sign for a cigarette break. Come back in five.” The statement was accompanied by laughter, and many people tromped outside to take a break. But it was never too long before the music was back up and bumping. However, let us move away from the stirring sounds of techno to the choke inducing fog machine. Fog machines, as a rule, can set the mood and bring in a daring, mischievous atmosphere, but not when I couldn’t see in front of my face, cough because I couldn’t breathe, and eventually smoked everyone out of the building. Afier we retreated outside, we had to wait for the ‘all clear’ from the fire department before being allowed back inside the building. And yet, the rave still made it through this tiny fiasco and conquered the smoke because the dancers just stood outside in little huddled groups talking and laughing about it all and waiting patiently to go back inside and recommence with the dancing. Quite a few mishaps occurred, but nothing too terrible to close the rave down; each little incident was cleaned up and fixed or rather, re— fixed, in a timely fashion. I believe it was about a centimeter away from being a complete success. The only thing preventing it was the fact that there should have been more people from campus there, participating and having a great time. In any case, Step Up should keep putting on dances because word will spread about the good times to be had, and soon, people from all over campus will be join- ing in the festivities. Minneapolis, Minnesota Friday, October 2, 200 meetings WEC Student Senate invites students to attend SARA KLEMP Stafl Writer Augsburg Weekend College Student Senate is holding upcoming meetings on Nov. 7 and 21. These meetings will be held on Saturdays from 12 pm. to 1 pm. The meeting on Nov. 7 will be held at the Oren Gateway Center, outside Room 100, and the meeting on Nov. 21 will be a luncheon meeting on the upstairs level of Christiansen Center. Augsburg for Adults, or AFA, students are encouraged to attend both meetings, yet all students are welcome to attend to ask questions and to learn more about student government. The WEC Student Senate is a group of students who work to promote the interests of the WEC student body and to enhance their educational experience. WEC Senate Meeting: Information ‘ Number 710m Gateway (enter outside Room 100 ‘ SMACKlNWlTH SENATE‘ - food to be offered tosmdmn ’ November 2t - Luncheon It Christensen Cent-r upstairs (or networking ' December 5 - Oren Gateway Center outside Room 100 ‘ SNACK“ WITH SENATE“ - food lobe ohm! to students Loohngioa mmmrrmmmwhetomamdmfimfm Coomcmfiugshefimhoummudum byatwommumonmm foodmflbupmddodtamwtumbynthoOrmGqu-ytmhmmrizoopm. Hoperoseeyouflmfl DIVERSITY, page 1 division, including Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Enrollment Management, Finance and Administra- tion, Campus Ministry, Information Technology, Athletics, and Institutional Advancement, were asked how they could continue to achieve an intentionally diverse campus. After a strategic planning process, Fields de- veloped a campus-wide survey that was conducted ment profile, well over 1,700 Caucasian students were enrolled; where as students of color, international students, and students who did not respond made up just over 600 students. Also, students of color noted that they feel an overall lack of acceptance when compared to Cauca- sian students. According to the report, “Some students stated that Augsburg focuses on diversity too much to the exclusion of other things (e.g., academic rigor) or so purposely that it turns people off.” ini lEditori i r Roger Huelsnitz SM Ed Shehwen E-mail — echo@augsburg.edu Phone - (612) 330—1102 of the students. subject to rcvtsion. appropriate. Augsburg College Echo Fall 2009 Staff EAitors-in-Chief Molly Ehling Sergio Monterrubio Becki Iverson Molly Ehling A E itor Manag'ngfltgt Malena 'Ihoson Becki Iverson F res i r C 'tor Andrea Sanow Ted Conover flotsam; Milan Dave Madsen Kendra Christiansen mm Sarah Gillund Fag;ng Adviser Boyd Koehler 731 let Avenue 5, CB 148 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454 Tips — echotips@gmail.com Fax — (612) 330- 1666 The Augsburg Echo is published each Friday — except during vacation periods and holidays A by the students of Augsburg College. Opinions expressed in the Echo are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those ot'the supporting stafl'. administration, faculty, alumn'v’ae or the remainder The Echo does not necessarily promote the products or services it advertises. Adx cnisemcnts can be placed in the Echo by contacting the advertising manager. Submissions are welcome and can be sent to eeho@augsburg.edu. All submis- sions should be between 500-700 words and accompanied by the writer‘s name and Contact information. All submissions become the property of the Echo and are The Echo reserves the right to edit submitted material because of space limita- tions. repetitive subject matter. libelous content or any other reason the editors deem Printed by Print Group Midwest on recycled paper. Students of Color Enrolled In Day Programs Currently, the Admissions Depart- ment at the college is working to con- tinue its initiative to utilize campus resources to increase the number of on—campus students of color. After holding informal meetings regarding the matter, members of the depart- ment decided to commit themselves to creating a college devoted to cul- Students of Color N O D tural awareness and competence. Augsburg‘s Assistant Director & Coordinator of Multicultural Recruit— 0 V y T V I ment, Julio Vargas, is responsible for Fall 2005 Fall 2006 Fall 2007 Fall 2008 Fall 2009 Academic Year 1 overseeing the Admission depart- ment’s effort to serve the commu- nity’s need for a diverse campus. The department created financial support in September of 2007. In November, the survey was closed and the responses were compiled. Since that time, revisions to the plan have been made and faculty surveys have also been released. A continuing process has been cycling though Augsburg’s campus and the results are starting to look favorable. Augsburg’s Diversity Strategic Planning Report of 2008 revealed that students were happy with the Diversity Committee’s actions to further campus diversity. Now, students are beginning to understand the importance of a campus rich in the exchange of beliefs and ideas. According to the report, “Students want opportunities to meet and get to know ‘other’ students." However, not all is entirely well with Augsburg ’s mandated diversity. As well as the college’s tuition rate preventing admittance to individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds, the report also highlighted how Weekend college students feel as if there is a lack of diversity on campus. As the illustration displays, attempts to create a vastly diverse campus seem to still need improvement. Although the amount of students of color enrolled in day programs has increased. the majority of Augsburg ‘s campus remains populated by Caucasian students. In the fall of 2009, the number of white students still outweighed the combined amount of students of color. international students, as well as the students who chose not to respond. According to the fall enroll- systems such as college access schol- arships, such as ACAP (Augsburg College Access Program) and the Promise Grant. According to Vargas, the department is also utilizing pre-established programs such as TRIO-SSS (Student Support Services), Ethnic Directors/ Services, as well as other academic support programs to provide aca- demic and personal support. “It is through the hard work and dedication of those that are currently with our office and also those that are no longer here that made this dream and com- mitment a reality,” Vargas said. “We are very proud of what we have accomplished, but know that our work is not done.” Photo submitted by: Gloria Morales Show less
Friday, Oober 23, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota ixed IodTheatre addresses passion and pain MALENA THOSON Act-E Editor It has been a very long time since I have been part of a true communal emotion. I’ve cried with friends over frivolous TV-movies that exploit mother-daughter relationship dynam- ics... Show moreFriday, Oober 23, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota ixed IodTheatre addresses passion and pain MALENA THOSON Act-E Editor It has been a very long time since I have been part of a true communal emotion. I’ve cried with friends over frivolous TV-movies that exploit mother-daughter relationship dynam- ics, and I’ve been shocked by contrived emotionally manipulative plot twists. However, nothing has come close to the emotional experience that Lynn Nottage’s Ruined provided. As a community, we the audience cried, gasped, and held'our breaths. We hoped, we worried, we felt connected to the women on the stage, the women in the story, and the women on the other side of the world persevering through pain we can hardly imagine. On October 16 the show Ruined opened at the local Mixed Blood Theater. The 2009 Pulitzer Prize winning play, written by Lynn Nottage, is a vivid and moving tale based on the true struggles of women, and humanity, today. Ruined is set in the Democratic Republic of Congo, modern day, and discusses with breathtaking honesty the very real terror that Congolese citizens have been suffering for over a decade. Fighting leftover from the Second Congo War continues still today, and the associated sexual violence against women (and, more recently, men) has been some of the worst the world has ever seen. Women are abducted, some for months at a time, and subject to rape and sexual torture by their captors. Nottage’s play is centered around one woman named Mama Nadi (played by Regina Marie Williams in the Mixed Blood production) who runs a nightclub and brothel in a mining region of the Congo. Mama takes in women who have been, as is typical, exiled by their families and husbands for the dishonor that is associated with sufiering sexual violence. Among the victims are women who are “ruined,” a term from whence the play gets its title, although the exact defini- tion is left for the audience to interpret. The women Mama Nadi hires become prostitutes because there is no other safe place for them to be. The disgrace they are marked with renders them unfit to be accepted by any other community, and without a place to be they are vulnerable to suffer further sexual assault, or death, at the hands of the armed militant groups in the country. Although Mama Nadi’s offer of refuge may seem heroic upon first consideration, the play brings in many more layers to her seemingly simple action. Firstly, Mama does not adopt the women simply out of a sense of sympathy to their situations. She is a Save “The Stepfather” as a last resort rental businesswomen, and they are her livelihood. Secondly, there is the reality of the type of work she expects from the women she takes in. Although she treats them with relative kindness leagues above what they have suffered by the hands of their captors and, to an extent, the families that have rejected them, Mama Nadi is yet another person in the lives of the abused women who expects them to perform sexual acts they do not wish to perform. Ruined is brilliantly written in all respects, and touches on the very complicated and layered situation facing the female characters of the play. The character of Mama Nadi walks a sharp line between mother figure and pimp to the women, and the complex layers of compassion, weariness, cynicism, suffering, terror and hope written into all the female characters is simply astounding. The play is deeply moving, touching spec- tators to the core of their beings as an overwhelming cry of deep injustice erupts off the stage, saying, in plain words, “this is not right.” The company at Mixed Blood embraces this spirit wholeheartedly, and embodies it fiilly in their produc- tion. Director Aditi Kapil takes on the powerhouse play with great skill. The staging is natural and the tone is appropriate. The set design is simple but phenomenally effective; one sitting in the audience might forget, as I did, that the set does not in fact encompass the whole of the West Bank, and be shocked, as I was, to walk out the door and find only the dark, dry parking lot off 4th street. Although I do commend the Mixed Blood theatre wholeheartedly for their successful undertaking of what is a very difficult and very powerful play, I must say that ultimately it was the play that made the production, and not the other way around. While William’s perfor- mance as Mama Nadi was nothing short of powerful, and her mastery of both dialectic and mannerisms was very impressive, not all the players seemed to yet have the same level of mastery over their lines, and in a few scenes some crucial lines were rushed. However, each and every one of the men and women involved clearly recognized and channeled the immense amount of courage and passion written into their parts (sentiments that the actors themselves either felt or were very skilled in imitating), which shone through the imperfections brilliantly. It was clear every moment of the production that everyone on stage knew how important the message they were telling was. I urge everyone to go see Ruined at the Mixed Blood Theatre. It bears a message that must be spread, and it tells a tale that cannot be ignored. “Ruined ” plays through November 22. For tickets call (612)-338-0937 or visit wwwmixedbloodrom. Page 7 VARIETY Local books a better buy? Barsv COLLINS Stafl Writer I love books. In fact, I consider books to be the main pit that my money falls into. I don‘t just love reading them: I love having them. I love the way old books smell. and the way different kinds of paper feel. I love getting lost in books stacked over my head. This is why I love a good bookstore. Since coming to college and being more-or-less immobile, (no car, extreme city-biking phobia), I have found my solace in the Amazon.com marketplace where books are cheap and sent to me. Getting packages is nice, but I really miss that nice, old, smelly used bookstore atmosphere, and have thus made it my mission this year to explore the Twin Cities local bookstore scene. Objec- tive 1: Midway Books. Midway Books is a three level bookstore in St. Paul located on University and Snelling. The main level is comic books, history, art, philosophy, etc. (basically anything that isn’t fiction, poetry, or religion. the three main sections on their second floor). The basement is the “Sale Book” section. Any book is $2.50, which I thought was pretty steep for the kinds of books they had down there. The basement also had old magazines dating back to the 1930’s. My main hunt was for fiction, as it usually is. Their fiction section was organized in a very confusing manner. mostly due to the fact that the stairway cut the second floor in half. The paperbacks were separated from the hardcover books in two lumps of shelves on either side of the stairs, and the hard covers twisted their way around the whole perimeter of the store. Though the organization was poor, the books themselves were alphabetical. The selection seemed to be all or nothing. Many of the books I looked for either had multiple copies. or weren’t there at all. They had the typical selection of classic books and current popular “book club” selections. The thing I liked least about Midway was the price system. None of the books were clearly marked. The paperbacks were priced, but then there was a sign that said they were all half off the original price. I wasn’t sure if it was the original price ofthe book, or the price tag they had put on the cover. The hardcover books weren't priced at all. I found it confusing and I had to ask for help. The woman I asked, however, was very friendly. The basement was creepy. It was dank and books were haphazardly strewn upon the shelves. They had cheap comics and old life magazines that were interesting but expensive. Most ofthe shelves were bare. and it was generally an uncomfortable environment for me. If you go to Midway, I would avoid the basement, although the sales woman did say that they were going to be moving more books down there in the coming weeks to make room for new inventory. MELISSA MONSON Contributor There are those people who seem too perfect to be true; the people who seem very secretive about their sordid pasts. but are so lovable that a person could go on loving them, not having a clue. This is the case with all-trusting divorcee Susan Harding. played by Sela Ward. in the new suspense film. The Stepfather. The movie revolves around a psycho killer. David Ham's. played by Dylan Walsh. He worms his way into single mothers hearts like Harding. Harris and Harding are engaged after only six months and Harris is a big hit with the two younger children. However. when Michael Harding. the eldest son. played by Penn Badgley. comes home from military school. he can‘t shake the feeling that there is something not right about the new man in his mom’s life. Michael keeps telling his girlfriend, Kelly Porter, played by Amber Heard, that there is something weird about Harris, but she continually tells him that he is imagining things. The movie goes on with Michael and others con- tinuing to question the character of David Harris. I had high hopes for this movie going in. but I was so dis- appointed in how predictable it was. Any suspicious characters in the movie end up "mysteriously" dead. It is classified in the suspense genre and it had a few moments where [jumped a little. but there was no real shock and awe like a good suspense movie has. The best part of suspense is saying to yourself. " I totally didn‘t see that coming!" Save your money on this one and keep it in mind as a rental from Redbox when there‘s nothing bet- ter to rent. . Walker Art Ce Ear M . K .2 e a S m t O I m X t. O 3 reenprinting workshop. smash vinyl records (for art!), orjoin tape exchange. Rock out to DJs from Radio K and get a sneak peak eWalker‘s newest exhibition. Dan Graham: Beyond. an artist whose work in art. architecture. performance. and mustc defies easy categorization. a teens.walkerart.org -> facebook.com/wactac 612.375.7600 Walker Teen Programs sponth by we W Free Thursday mom Iponiond by G An: a- O lIiALEé times-r in ‘y" u e" ANCES ARTIST .1, ll ,- m Show less
Page 8 THE BACK PAGE Minneapolis, Minnesota Friday, October 23, 2009 Auggie at a glance: Marty Lestock A : FRED TORVIK Contributor Not once, in all my time at Augsburg, have I ever heard somebody say, “No dude, don‘t invite Marty." That‘s because Marty Lestock (‘ l l) isn’tjust cool; he’s... Show morePage 8 THE BACK PAGE Minneapolis, Minnesota Friday, October 23, 2009 Auggie at a glance: Marty Lestock A : FRED TORVIK Contributor Not once, in all my time at Augsburg, have I ever heard somebody say, “No dude, don‘t invite Marty." That‘s because Marty Lestock (‘ l l) isn’tjust cool; he’s Commander Cool. And at age twenty-one, young Marty is only poised to get cooler. Because of his intelligent, relaxed, and kind nature, Marty is an impressively pleasant dude. He’s never a bad person to find yourself chilling with. However, I can also attest to the fact that Marty is much more than just likeable. Marty has been playing music since he got his first trombone in third grade. His father cultivated his interest in music from an early age. playing records by artists like The Beatles. The Eagles. Bob Dylan. and Neil Young. Marty‘s love of classic rock lead to him taking up guitar hisjunior year in high school. Today. he plays both instruments at a very advanced level, having studied both extensively in his time at Augsburg. Additionally. he’s employed part-time transcribing music for Augsburg Band director Bob Stacke. With music playing such a central role in Marty‘s life, it’s no surprise that his major is Music Education. It‘s also no surprise that most of his classes are music classes. On top of his participation in Augsburg’s orchestra. concert band, and jazz ensemble, Marty is taking woodwind methods (a class for music education majors on playing woodwind instruments and I must say, Marty’s become quite the flautist), and music composition. So far, music composition has been Marty ’5 favorite course at Augsburg. “You get to create your own work... it’s just fun creat- ing stuff,” Marty said. Marty’s non music-related classes are primarily focused on education, and he wants to use his education degree to become a high school band director. When asked about working with younger kids, Marty shrugged and explained that it might not be as rewarding. “Younger kids would be great for a while, but I think I’d rather work with high schoolers,” he said. “I’d also love to teach private lessons.” The thing that most excites Marty about the educational aspect of his degree is the required student teaching. It’ll be another year before he gets the opportunity to be a student teacher. but that’s ok with him. “Sometimes. I’d love to [get] out there and just do it now, but other times I think I need to practice and get really good first,” he said. Marty’s patience and strong work ethic will undoubt— edly ensure that he‘ll be prepared when his turn to teach arrives. Perhaps the most visible product of Marty’s patience and work ethic was the Beatles tribute concert held at Hov- ersten Chapel in April 2008. Although there were many people involved in mak- ing the show successful (Clark Ruzin, Brian Sheehan, Leo Kohorst, and Kjerstin Hagen are just a few of those people), Marty chose many of the songs, planned rehearsals, organized equipment, and generally cracked the whip until things were in good shape. The idea for the concert, in fact, was his. “I thought it’d be cool,” Marty said modestly. “...I just wanted to play music. I like The Beatles and I figured enough people like them too.” The possibility of another such even remains open as well. “I’d do another one if enough people were interested," he said. “It wouldn’t have to be The Beatles either. I’d be down for whatever, but it’s a lot of work." Marty’s musical interests are growing quickly, so “whatever” becomes broader every day. His musical in- terests have expanded beyond their classic-rock origins to include artists like Radiohead, Django Reinhardt, Animal Collective, Wes Montgomery, and Igor Stravinsky: Yes, Marty Lestock is an involved and interested per- son. He’s always ready to learn (especially about music), and he applies his knowledge to consistently worthy pursuits. When one considers that he also happens to be a genuinely great guy, it’s not hard to see why Marty remains a beloved figure around campus. HOROSCOPES ).E.R.K. (JAMIE KRUMENAUER, EMILY PETERSON, RESHA ALBRECHT, KELLY DAUGHERTY) Contributors If your birthday is this week: This week, commence Operation Free Things in honor of your birthday. Many establishments offer free things for birthdays, and if you go into the new A-Club Grille in your birthday suit, you’ll surely get something for free! Aries (Mar. 21 — Apr. 19): Next time you are doing homework in your grandma‘s basement and hear her yelling at her overweight cat “WILLOW, GET OVER HERE! I !” just stay downstairs. It’s in your best interest, despite the fresh-baked goods awaiting you upstairs. Taurus (Apr. 20 7 May 20): The stars have informed us that you will do well on an upcoming test this week. Proving that once again your method of cramming the night before, while not encouraged, is effective! Gemini (May 21 — Jun. 21): You may or may not find yourself watch- ing “Hocus Pocus” on ABC Family for the 20th time this Halloween season. You also may or may not find yourselfhumming “Come little children, we'll take you away” in the full moon’s light. Cancer (Jun. 22 — Jul. 22): Purchase a lottery ticket this week! You may not win, but if you do, we get to claim 20 percent of the win— nings (post-taxes). It’s in the standard Horoscope’s Prediction Fee. Leo (Jul. 23 —Aug. 22): Farrnville and Spider Solitaire are not a good alternative to studying at this point in the semester. . . Unless you plan on minoring in “Useless Computer Game Skills.” You would be better oifminoring in “AugSem.” Virgo (Aug. 23 — Sep. 22): Stressed out with grad school applications and GRE prep? Fear not, you can always get your PhD online! Libra (Sep. 23 — Oct. 23): The autumn leaves are changing colors and so is your last hair dye job. You might want to fix that before random strangers notice your grown out roots and start screaming at you in the quad: “DYE YOUR HAIR!” Scorpio (Oct. 24 — Nov. 21): Do you know Where the Wild Things Are? Maybe not, but we certainly know where your mom was last night... Sagittarius (Nov. 22 — Dec. 21): So it’s Friday night. Instead of wearing that A- low-cut top and spankies, ask yourself “What Would Audrey Do?” You’ll find that a little black dress and pearl earrings never go out of style, regardless of gender. C aoricom (Dec. 22 — Jan. 19): You are feeling disgruntled because “Fireflies” d by Owl City finally made it on KDWB. Don’t worry, you know in your heart that you heard it first. Besides, it’s just a song about some genetically gifted insect. Aquarius (Jan. 20 — Feb. 18.): We feel as if you might need a change of pace :3. from the monotony of life this week. Go to the Minneapolis Institute ofArts for the Louvre exhibit, it's cheaper for students! We also heard a rumor that the Mona Lisa will be in this special exhibit. Okay fine, we made up the Mona Lisa thing... but it's still cheap! Pisces (Feb. l9 A Mar. 20): Still deciding on a Halloween costume? Might we H. ‘1 suggest you be the Grim Reaper. lurking in the shadows and scaring drunken partygoers for the entire evening? If nothing else. you can always just wear lingerie and kitten ears. Clues Across 3. Let’s _ trick or treatingll 4. 1 November 6.You used to need one of these to harvest crops 10. Little monsters have been let _ 12. Candy Corn opposite 14. What many kids dress up as 15. The mythical belief that Halloween cel- ebrates 16. Creepy noisy bird 17. Disgusting! 19. This is the season when _ apple falls from the tree 22.___: Vinegar as Trick: Treat 23. Something a lot of people will do this season 24. Something nice and warm, perfect for a Fall day 25. _ _mel to dip apples in 29. What did you do with the treats? 30. dead person in vocative form 31. A candy you get at the door, singular 33. You are flying _ this Halloween 34. The kind of dirt you need for potion making 35. A Fall colour Down 1. _ is on the _first 2. What you collect your candy in 3. A Fall colour 5. the other par of 6 across 7. You ate _ much candy 8. A door bell 9. What do you say to candy? 11. What you collect your candy in 13. Do you want another pumpkin to carve? 18. what does a ghoul do? 20. The streets— 21. Gross! 22. A month in the Fall 23. Another name for a bone 26. you don’t want to cross a street with this 27. @ 28. A ghost says this 32. Do you want it to snow in the Fall? 36. If your name is this, then you are yourself for Halloween Answers from last week’s Crossword 24. Year . Across 25. Run 1. Oren Gate- 27. Vocation way 31. Justice 7. Ball 8. Colder Down 9. Memorial 1.Role 15. En 2.Nabo 16. It 3.WEC 18. Hard 4. Yale 19. Diversity 5. Murphy 20. All l0.Mortensen 21.Aviands ll.Are 22. PE 12. Lindell 23. West 13. La 14. Live 17.Te l 8 . H e r e world 21.APA 26. AV 28. Alumnus 29. Riverside 30. Soaring 3]. Ten Show less
Friday, October 23, 2009 w Minneapolis, Minnesota “It’s not all about winning”: A preview of men’s basketball LARS Hum Columnist The basketball season is still a month away, but Augsburg Men’s Basketball met for the first time this week to prepare for the upcoming season. The eighteen men have... Show moreFriday, October 23, 2009 w Minneapolis, Minnesota “It’s not all about winning”: A preview of men’s basketball LARS Hum Columnist The basketball season is still a month away, but Augsburg Men’s Basketball met for the first time this week to prepare for the upcoming season. The eighteen men have been training by themselves since the start of the semester and now take part in six sessions a week as a group. Seeing the players together for the first time this year, Head Coach Aaron Greiss is confident as they now begin the new campaign. “We have a kind of veteran team this year,” Greiss said. “Eleven of the players were a part of the team last season too, so they know what this is about and what to expect.” The 2008—09 season was the Auggies’ best in almost a decade, when Griess led the team to the playoffs in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. After finishing third, Greiss is looking to raise the bar this season. “We always want to improve and we want to compete for the Conference title. The players are up for it, and the ambitions within the squad are very high” he said. Greiss then added that success also brings the Auggies out to watch. “When we do well, we attract people to our games. We had a pretty good run last year and we played University of St.Thomas. The gym was packed and it was a great atmosphere. But we have‘ to perform” The balance between sports and studies is a classic student problem. The coaching staff is aware of the tight schedule of many of the players, so they have sessions which help them figuring out how to best spend their time. “It’s not all about winning games,” Greiss said. “We help them dispose the time to their academics because we think it is important that they succeed in the classroom as well as playing basketball. In assuage t assailant total, we want to help develop themselves as people. The average grade in the group last season was 3.2 and I think that’s better than many others who don’t participate in sports. So yes, we do care about their academic life as well” Before the first game against Midwestern Col- lege in Rosenville, the Auggies will participate in the Crown College Tournament at the end of November. Greiss is looking forward to seeing the players in action and is also encouraging the faithful Augsburg students to come and watch. “It would be fantastic if some Augsburg students came to see us,” he said. “They are all very welcome." Auggie football hopes to pass .500 this season ED SHEHWEN ~ Sports Editor The Auggie football team appears fully recov- ered from their 38-28 homecoming loss to Hamline University, defeating Concordia College at their own homecoming game this past weekend. In addition, the Auggies beat Carleton College 3 1-28 two Saturdays ago. In doing so the Auggies ac- cumulated an overall record of 3-3, and a conference record of 2-2 with four games left in the season. Team leadership is far from satisfied with their achievements to date. In his fifih year as head coach, Frank Haege, holds his team to much higher stan- dards. Haege said that he would like to see his team finish at .500 percentage or better. In order to do so. a .100 percentage improvement will be needed from their current .400 percentage performance. Haege alluded to being 5-5 in the past two seasons and dis- played his ambition to achieve equivalent success. When asked what needs to be done in order to compile such success, Haege said that the team “just needs to be consistent in all phases of the game.” Haege said that the Auggie record to date has not reflected the work they have put in, as they have fallen just short in every game they have lost. Haege concluded the interview by mentioning a few key players present on the squad this year. “Quarterback Marcus Brumm. WR’s Munner Al— hameed and Mike Nourie are very exciting players." Haege said. At 205 pounds and a height 6 feet 4 inches is #3 Marcus Brumm, the sophomore quarterback for the Auggies. He is a local phenomenon out of Lakeville South High School. He has a mile-long list of high school athletic accomplishments and experience, which he brings here to the Augsburg football squad. Brumm wouldn’t be as notable as he is without some talented receivers on the other end of the foot- ball. One receiver who is reeling in Brumm’s passes this year is wider receiver #8 Muneer Al-Hameed. Al-Hameed weighs in at 188 pounds and stands sturdy at 5 feet 10 inches. He is another local talent. coming out of Minneapolis’ Washbum High School. Another available target for Brumm is #6 Mike Nourie, a 6 foot 1 inch 190 pound senior out ofNicol— let High School. With the help of their teammates these three indi- viduals have stood out and achieved recognition. The Augsburg football team will need them to continue to compete at this level if they are to achieve their goal of reaching a .500 percentage record. The Augsburg football team has four games left until the beginning of the NCAA Division 111 play- offs. Their next matchup and final home game will be against Gustavus Adolphus this Saturday, Oct. 24, at 1 pm. at Edor Nelson Field. If you haven’t been out to see the Auggies yet there is still plenty of time to do so. Get out and cheer on your team as the Augsburg football team strives to show their excellence on the gridiron. Be a sports writer for the Echo! Contact our sports editor Ed Shehwen at: shehwen@augsburg.edu Page 3 SPORTS LAURA Mora Contributor Augsburg men’s hockey recently started practicing and expectations of their success are high this season. Last season the team went 8-7-1 in conference play. Hop- ing to improve on last year‘s record, these young men are actively working hard. Losing only three seniors. this growing young team has tremendous potential. Last year. Augsburg’s offence was one of the best in the MlAC. and the team only plans on improving. “We plan on improving from last year by having more experience this year," said Ma- rio Mjelleli. right wing. "We were a young team last year that didn’t quite have all ofthe pieces to the puzzle. We have some really talented players on our squad and with a little bit of luck and some elbow grease I believe we can succeed greatly." Nick Guran, added to Mjel— leli's comment. “I think our team was very young last year, so the maturity and having a season under our belts will 'really help us out of the gates this year,” he said. “I think that we now know what it takes to be at the top in the MlAC and are all on the same page on what we want to ac- complish this year. We just have to take it one game at a time!" Six new Auggies joined the team this year. and sev- eral players with at least two or three years of experience will help the team progress overall. They kick off the season at the Bloomington lce Garden against Bethel University Oct. 30 at 2 pm. John Lennartson. forward, stressed the importance of win- ning the first season game Already a solid start for Men’s Hockey against Bethel. “A solid start sets the tone for the entire season." Lennart- son said. The team is actively pre- paring themselves to come out on top. The team lifts Monday through Thursday. and practices an hour and halfto two hours a day during the week. Mjelleli commented on their current training. “We undergo intense men- tal and physical training. . ..and a lot of cardio is involved." he said. “A typical practice is either a lot of goals being scored or a lot ofbattling with one another. By battling I mean one on one type scenarios. Not quite bat- tling to the death like ninjas. but some days are very close." Although practices may be grueling. these young men couldn‘t think ofanything more enjoyable. Hockey has become a part of who they are. This will be Mjelleli‘s third season; he expressed the role of hockey in his own life and in the lives of his teammates. “Once the season starts the boys really look forward to every weekend," he said. “We eat, breathe and play hockey. Everything we talk about is hockey. Our lives are hockey. hockey, hockey- it has become an obsession in our lives. We love everything about the game. There is a famous quote that can sum this up... ‘If God created anything better than hockey. he's keeping it to himself.” Obviously. hockey is more than just a game for most of these young men; fans can look forward to a very competitive and intense season. Games to look forward to this season are those against rivals St. Thomas on November 13 and 14 and Hamline on Janu- ary 29 and 30. Show less
'Ihe College’s Student—Produced Newspaper See Ruined, page 7 Friday, October 23, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXVI, Issue 5 after its members learned of her passing. Remembering Rachel Druck Last Friday, tragedy struck the Augsburg community. Second year student Rachel Druck passed away... Show more'Ihe College’s Student—Produced Newspaper See Ruined, page 7 Friday, October 23, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXVI, Issue 5 after its members learned of her passing. Remembering Rachel Druck Last Friday, tragedy struck the Augsburg community. Second year student Rachel Druck passed away early Saturday morning. She was twenty-three years old. Rachel started at Augsburg in the fall of 2008. She was interested in music and history, and was undecided as to what would be her major. She sang in The Riverside Singers and Augsburg Choir, and she traveled to Kalamazoo, Mich. with the Medieval Studies program to participate in The Intema- tional Congress on Medieval Studies. Rachel showed great talent and potential in her musical and academic pursuits, and her absence has already been felt by the Augsburg Choir, who performed on Sunday shortly Rachel was energetic, enthusiastic, and well loved by her many friends in the Augsburg Community and elsewhere. Her mother, Susan Druck, is a member of Augsburg‘s voice faculty. She has expressed her sincere gratitude for the sympathy and love she’s received in the wake ofthis terrible loss. In honor of Rachel and her memory, the Echo is dedicating this issue to her. A brief memorial service for Rachel has already been held in Hoversten Chapel. Her funeral was this Wednesday. Oct. 21 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Minneapolis. The Augsburg Choir performed. Any person needing support or counseling is encouraged to contact the C enterfor Counseling and Health Promotion 0r Campus Ministry. Augsburg participates in day of climate action ALEX STOIAKEN Stafl Writer 350. That is the magical number that will save the Earth from global climate change. Every year the parts per million of C02 (carbon) in the atmosphere steadily rises. As a result, this can cause a change in climate. By reducing the amount of carbon emissions we produce, we can help make a safer climate for humanity. On Oct. 24, Augsburg College and people around the world will partake in a day of action, raising awareness for a safer climate by making their own version of the number 350. The College’s interest in sustainability and the 350 mission started with a coffee shop conversation between history professor Michael Lansing and a few students. The concept sparked their interests and with that, students started to organize and plan ways to spread the word to the rest of Augsburg and the community. I sat down with Day Student Body President Sam Smith, one of the leaders for organizing the college’s day of action. Smith said the group has been working with a few bike shops in the city, as StepUP says goodbye to Dave Hadden well as student organizations such as ASAC and CSA to help support this movement. “Augsburg is a place where students feel strongly about the issue,” Smith said. On this Saturday, Augsburg and company (fellow MIAC colleges Macalester and St. Thomas will also participate) will be hosting a variety of events revolving around the 350 Day of Action. Those events include: from 9:30 See CLIMATE, page 5 DAVE MADSEN News Editor On Monday, Oct. 19. the StepUP Program bid farewell to a pillar of their community. Dave Hadden, the former Assistant Director of the program, announced his official retirement from over 30 years of recovery- based education and counseling. With a BA in School and Community Health, a master’s de- gree in School Health and a post- graduate Cenification in Drug and Alcohol Counseling, Hadden‘s qualifications for his position are only outweighed by his massive cowboy boot collection. In addi- tion to his education, Hadden is also a licensed Independent Social Worker and a Minnesota Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Hadden has been with SrepU P from its conception in 1997. In over ten years of this work. he has seen the program mature from 36 students composed of the CLASS and extended-care programs to the fully realized organization containing nearly the entire residential building of the Oren Gateway Center. “Out of all the things I have done, I am the most proud of StepUP.” Hadden said. This eccentric counselor is optimistic for the future. but he still remains realistic of the prin- ciples of StepUP. Hadden claimed that the program does not hold the cure Vocatio chapel: Pastor Cabello speaks PETER MILLER Stafi Writer Last Wednesday, for the 2009—20 1 0 Vocatio Chapel series, “Race, Place, and Class,” Pastor Luisa Cabello Hansel spoke to students about the history of her own call to ministry. She discussed her journey from Chile to Bolivia, Mexico, and the United States. These transitions opened her eyes to a vision for im- migration and vitality of urban communities. She encouraged students to enter into the places where God is calling them, to see “peoples’ lives being transformed.” Growing up in Chile, Pastor Cabello faced an oppressing militaristic governance after the 1973 coup d‘état of Augusto Pinochet. Enemies of his authoritarian regime were targeted, imprisoned. tortured, and killed. Pas- tor Cabello recalled a tumultuous interaction when her mother was almost trucked ofi” by the Chilean Army. Her sisters wanted to leave with her mother. but the truck that was carrying prisoners was full. Pastor C abello. in fear of Pinochet’s fascism, fled to Bolivia. “It was the most scary. . .seeing the cruelty to my family, my mother. . .and living with the guilt of not suffering with my people,” Pastor Cabello said. It was through these moments that she learned what evil and violence can do to communities. Pastor Cabello also emphasized how her faith developed in this chaos of her homeland: “I did not know where home was, but I knew that God would provide me with freedom, what I still desire.” As Pastor Cabello continued in her quest for “freedom... [and] a deep sense of justice,” she moved to Mexico and began serving poor communities outside of Mexico City. “I was enriched by the people in those devastated neighborhoods,” Pastor Cabello stated. She worked to provide compassion and' dignity in these areas. Pastor C abello saw these neighborhoods as an opportunity to engage people in conversation and "a terrible privilege to suffer” through. See CABELLO, page 5 See HADDEN, page 2 Panel to discuss "g reen” jobs SARA KLEMP Stafl Writer A panel discussion on “Green Jobs” will be held to discuss environ- mentally friendly job opportunities and what companies are doing to help create a green economy at and around Augsburg. Recently, many students have expressed their interest in knowing more about what the workforce is doing to promote a green economy, and this event will be a response to their desire to learn more. The panel will consist of four to six members from several different profit and non- profit agencies. such as Green River Greening, Flannery Construction, Blue Green Alliance, Aveda Earth & Community Care and Aerotek Profes— sional Services. These representatives will each talk briefly about their companies and their experiences in helping to create a green economy. Following this. the panel will give students an opportunity to ask questions. The Augsburg College Career and lntemship Office will be hosting this free event, which is open to the public. It will be held on Monday. Nov. 9, from 4:45 to 6:00 pm. in the Adeline Room, located on the first floor ofthe Oren Gateway Center. Show less
Page 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota Erida , October 23, 2009 A food critic on the new 0* extreme energy shots JONATHAN CHRAS’I‘EK Stafl Writer So when the Echo asked me if I wanted to write an article for them about the 0‘ stuff I thought, “Okay, how hard can this be? I already got some from the... Show morePage 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota Erida , October 23, 2009 A food critic on the new 0* extreme energy shots JONATHAN CHRAS’I‘EK Stafl Writer So when the Echo asked me if I wanted to write an article for them about the 0‘ stuff I thought, “Okay, how hard can this be? I already got some from the man up in the caf last week.“ Last week there was a professional who had a display up in the cafeteria area. He was giving out some free samples of 0’ stuff. So, being a good college student, I took as much as I felt comfortable stealing. I took one “0‘ Stick“ and a mini one, the “0 Mini”. I decided to use it and had my girlfriend come along for the ride as it were. One night we decide to huff some of it and have a good time! It had no efiect; I had about half of one canister. The most exciting part about it was that it was pressurized air blowing into my mouth. We opened the second one up and I pointed it at my mouth and pushed its top. Nothing happened, so I tried it a couple more times. I then got impatient and smashed it down and it blew compressed “Oxygen—enriched air” into my mouth. It tasted like peppermint-flavored air. The O+ tubes have also apparently sold on the Craigslist website under I brought the canisters home, and showed them to my family. This resulted in my brother-in-law testing to see if there was really oxygen in them. So, he sprayed the contents in front of a lighter; it blew the lighter out and it didn’t work at all. Oxygen Plus is a fairly new company, so it makes sense that they haven’t streamlined anything. I even emailed then asking for a free sample, and they said they would happily send me one! My final conclusion is that Oxygen Plus’ products are pretty much a waste of money unless you are in the market to buy canisters of compressed “oxygen” which are flavored. Even so, they run out of air very fast! BECCA ANDERSEN Stafir Writer On Sunday. Nov. 1, at 4 pm. the Mas- terworks Chorale will perform “Magnificat” at the Community of the Cross Lutheran Church in Bloomington. The Masterworks Chorale consists of student, faculty, alumni, and community associate singers. Four soloists will perform in the fall concert including soprano Linh Kaufiinan, a friend of Augsburg with “a voice that per— fectly fits the pieces” of this year’s concert, alto Susan Druck, who is on the voice fac- ulty here at Augsburg, tenor Andrew Kane, a current Augsburg day student senior, and bass Aaron Larson, a professional concert soloist who’s mother also sings in Master- works. The accompanying orchestra is profes- sional, but sometimes includes qualified students and faculty. The event this Novem- flavors such as Grapefruit and Natural. Masterworks Chorale to perform Magnificat at Cross Lutheran Church at its first concert ' ber will feature seven Augsburg faculty and alumni orchestral members. The Masterworks Chorale was created by Augsburg Associate Professor and Direc- tor of Choral Activities, Peter Hendrickson, in the fall of 1994. This fall marks both Masterworks’ sixteenth year of existence and Hendrickson‘s sixteenth year of in- volvement as a programmer and conductor for the event. When Hendrickson came to Augsburg from Macalester College, his dream was to see to it that four distinct choruses, each furnishing its own unique contribution, were established: a mixed student choir (Augsburg Choir), an all girl’s student choir (Riverside Singers), an all boy’s student choir (Cedar Singers), and a symphonic chorus. Three of these were already somewhat instilled within the Augsburg choral com- munity, but the richness of a symphonic Augsburg College Echo chorus was lacking. Hendrickson was able to model the Masterworks Chorale afier the Festival Chorale at Macalester College, and use his “real love for orchestral literature” to fuel his cause, turning symphonic chorus at Augsburg into a resonant success. This year, Hendrickson began produc- ing the program for Masterworks with one piece in mind—the Magnificat in D Major by Bach—~that acted as sort of an anchor in which build around. The outcome was four Magnificat settings by Bach, Schubert, Gabrieli, and Purcell. These Magnificats, meaning “Mary’s song,” and referring to the Virgin Mary’s words in Luke 1:46-55, “My soul magnifies the world,” will be sung by one hundred voices of auditioned students, alumni, and fiiends of Augsburg—some of which have been involved with Masterworks since its beginnings. “Many of the alumni and community members have sung with me for a very long time,” Hendrickson said. “They have followed me with this project since day one and we’ve latched as colleagues.” Although Hendrickson keeps strong ties with original Masterworks members, every year his standard practice is to look for new voices with connections to Augsburg. If students or faculty are interested in getting involved with the Chorale, or know a friend who would be a good fit, auditions are set up by appointment with Hendrickson and take place throughout the year. In addition to the fall concert, the sing- ers will perform at Advent Vespers and a spring concert throughout the year, proving it to be a very collaborative project and em- bodying Augsburg’s values in community outreach. HADDEN, page 1 Hadden will be sorely missed Opinions/Editorials Editor Email — echo@augsburg.edu Phone — (612) 530—1102 Fall 2009 Staff E1 tors-in-thgf W Molly Ehling Sergio Monterrubio Becki Iverson Molly Ehling AfigE Editor Managing Edith Malena Thoson Becki Iverson Features Editor Copy Editor Andrea Sanow Ted Conover News Eiror Photo Editor Dave Madsen Kendra Christiansen Advegising Manager Roger Huelsnitz Sarah Gillund Sports Editor Faculty Adviser Ed Shchwen Boyd Koehler 731 let Avenue 5, CB 148 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454 Tips — echotips@gmail.com Fax — (612) 330—1666 The Augsburg Echo is published each Friday A except during vacation periods and holidays 7 by the students ofAugsburg College. Opinions expressed in the Echo are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those ofthe supporting staff. administration. faculty, alumni/ac or the remainder of the students. The lit-ha does not necessarily promote the products or services it advertises. Adx emsements can be placed in the Edit) by contacting the advertising manager. Suhrnissions are welcome and can be sent to echo@augsburg.edu. All submis- sions should be between 500-700 words and accompanied by the writer‘s name and contact int'omiation. All submissions become the property of the Echo and are subject to re\ ision. Ihe Echo reserves the right to edit submitted material because of space limita- tions. repetitive subject matter. libelous content or any other reason the editors deem appropriate. Printed by Print Group Midwest on recycled paper. for addiction, but he said that StepUP can help young people find their way in greater society. The StepUP program, according to Hadden, has not operated without is share of mistakes. However, the program has learned and grown from its mistakes, much like the students in StepUP. “Anyone who applies the spiritual principles of a twelve step program will benefit fi‘om them,” Hadden said. “Recovery is all about finding something that works for you and finding a program of living." Hadden also claims that the hardest part of re- covery is facing up to one‘s mistakes. In these cases, someone in recovery can become his/her own worst enemy. Luckily. StepUP holds “guardians” who hold people accountable. "I think the nice thing about StepUP is that the guardians come from within." Hadden said. “They’re the people who have a commitment to recovery." “Initially. I was his [Hadden‘s] colleague and then supervisor at Hazelden Center for Youth and Families.“ said Patrice Salmeri. StepUP Program Director. “Throughout twelve years. I have sensed Dave’s passion for adolescents and his desire to see them live productive drug—free lives.” The StepUP community, as well as those who are friends of the program. gathered on Monday night during their weekly circle meeting in order to officially say goodbye to Hadden. Scott Washbum, who will be filling Hadden’s oddly-shaped boots. expressed gratitude for the time the two had spent throughout their work. Washbum will be taking Had- den’s place as Assistant Director, but admitted that Hadden will be sorely missed by the community. Peter Hubbard, senior and long-time member of the program, stood in front of his classmates to give a heartfelt goodbye to Hadden. “I feel like I could stand up here and talk for hours about what we‘ve been through; you’ve been a rock for me,“ Hubbard said. “We all hear you say that we are your heroes but, what you have to understand is. we all love you and you’re our hero, too. I can’t thank you for how much time you‘ve put into this program and we’re going to miss you." Photo by Stephen Geffre Show less
Page 4 Minneapolis, Minnesota OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS Why I hate the Beatles DAVE MADSEN Stafl Writer As the headline of my opinionated article suggests, l have become completely disenchanted with a certain mop-topped 60’s musical group. It is not a fault of their actual music, how- ever; I love... Show morePage 4 Minneapolis, Minnesota OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS Why I hate the Beatles DAVE MADSEN Stafl Writer As the headline of my opinionated article suggests, l have become completely disenchanted with a certain mop-topped 60’s musical group. It is not a fault of their actual music, how- ever; I love Rubber Soul and I wake up to “I’ve Just Seen a Face” every morning. The reason for my intense irritation with the Beatles stems from an even greater hatred. With every re-mastered re-release of the Beatles Anthology, 1 am consistently reminded that an incompetent demographic insists on running American culture. These pests have had their time on the throne, and they did an adequate job; at least for a short time, that is. Now, the generation known as the “Baby Boomers" has long over-stayed their welcome and is continuing to alienate the younger public. Back to my original thesis though; Baby Boomers have single-handedly destroyed a once-phenomenal group of musicians (with the exception of Ringo Starr) into an over-played shadow of their former selves. For example, 2009 has seen a disturbing spike in the production of Beatles-related drivel. In regard to music, one now has the option ofbuying every single Beatles album—boxed or otherwise—in either its re-mastered or original version. To add to the confiision, a distinction is made between the stereo and mono versions. This is not even to mention the numer— ous side projects of McCartney and endless amounts of lullaby—covered albums for infants. Party games you ask? Don’t you fret, dearest superfan. You can now ingest an adequate fill of useless trivia afier playing a few rounds of Trivial Pursuit: Beatles Edition, or Beatles Monopoly. Not even video games are an escape from the Baby Boomer grasp, it seems, as the Beatles Rock Band was just released on consoles across the planet. As if one hasn’t heard “I Saw Her Standing There” enough the local shopping mall, one can now control an awkwardly ani- mated Robo-Lennon on his/her Xbox360. Enough about the fab-four though; they are just an example of how the decaying Baby Boomer generation are holding firm to our soci- ety. If one needs sufficient proof as to how this generation refuses to die, look no further than social networking sites like Facebook. It is now quite common for Boomers to have their own page and comment on photos of their children downing cheap liquor at an all-night college rave (i.e. “OMG Britni, we need to have a talk when you get home, LOL.”) I should clarify that I do not literally believe that everyone born post-WWII is a self-absorbed idealist. In fact, this generation has done great things for us raised on Hollywood and Madison Avenue; but their proverbial relocation to Florida is long overdue. This generation needs to emulate their parents and quietly retire to lives of solemn reflection. No longer do I wish to see groups of grey- haired, spandex-donned bicyclists interrupting my morning commute. The Rolling Stones had their place for a few minutes in history; does any- one enjoy watching Keith “Candleface” Richards smoke himself to oblivion, while a saggy Jagger prances around on stage risking a broken hip? I refuse to sit through another arbitrary anniversary of Woodstock, and I have sworn off television in an effort to avoid any more Viagra advertise— ments. In the end, I suppose my gripe is not with those boot-strapped guitar jockeys; they were an extremely influential band of wide—eyed teens who defied cultural bounds and shattered the stale music scene. Rather, my hatred rests on the withered shoulders of the Baby Boomers who insist on fighting Father Time and tightening their grip on us youngsters. To those who flaunt their Baby Boomer sta- tus: take a note from your “Blackbird” and “fly into the light of a dark black night.” Frida , October 23, 2009 Wl‘l‘ Augsburg? ANDY Mums Columnist If you have ever lived in Anderson Hall you’ll know exactly what I’m talkin about when I say WTF to the Andersofl printer. If you are fortunate enough tc have never had to deal with this P.0.S machine, consider yourself lucky. Don’ be fooled by the picture accompanyin this article — despite saying “Ready’ this infernal machine was not printin anything. I took this photo afier ' multiple times to print a reading for c andafier tryingtoreu'ievethesavedjob which it said there were none, I eventual] .gaveupandniedtocallseveralcam to be fair that is not in their job description, so never yell at the friendly L workers). This is my third year living in Anderson, and I am dumbfounded as tc how that printer is still sitting there, causing me hours of frustration and zero productivity. A critical reader might say, “But Andy, why not just go use another on-campus printer.” First off, that defeats the purpose of having a printer in Anderson, which I pay a lot of money to occupy and was told that I would be able to use said printer at all hours of the day; secondly, every full-time day student pays a “Technology Fee” of $200 per semester (that’s $400 plus tax a year!). There are roughly 160 students living in Anderson, give or take a dozen or so, and at $400 per year, that’s $64,000 from Anderson residents alone. 1 know that a large majority of that goes towards operating costs such as paper ink, and the staff who checks on it sometimes, and of course all of the 0th technology resources we use (read: pay for) on campus. However, a bran new model of that same printer would only cost $1,200 to $1,600 dependin on where the printer is purchased. ' I would like to start a dialogue with the employee in charge of our on< campus printers to discuss options to solve this dilemma. I would like to stresi that this printer is unreliable (jamming frequently, leaving excess ink marks putting creases in the printed pages, and just not working, to name a few) and is at least (probably more than) three years old. We owe it to ourselves to get a more reliable printer. Thumbs down: H.R. Hiring Policies: We like the idea of trying to make things more efficient, except for when things are less efficient. With no specification for which jobs people want to work for, departments hiring have no idea who really wants to work there. Plus, everyone already working has to reapply for jobs they already have, which means twice as much paperwork. Thumbs down. Smelly bathrooms: Even after renovation, the Christensen Center bathrooms have quite the stench, especially at night. What’s up with that? Thumbs down. White boards without markers: How many times have students and professors come to class only to find that there are either A) no working white board mark- ers or B) the markers there don’t work. What do we pay for anyway? Thumbs down for poor classroom equipment. $ é % Thumbs up: Fryer: Yay for food! Congrats to A’Viands for fixing the fryer and giving students their fn'ed goodies back. Thumbs up to A’Viands for listening to student complaints and fixing the problem. Ann Garvey: Way to be the awesomest dean of students ever. We appreciate your dedication to your work and the way you care for the students here at Augsburg. Thumbs up for the good work you do. 350.0rg Organizers: Thanks for finding a way to include Augs- burg into this amazing opportunity. We’re excited to participate in Saturday’s events. Thumbs up for student participation at Augsburg. benefit from. ETIQUETTE DINNER The Etiquette Dimer put on by Augsburg Student Business Organization and Center for Service, Work, and Learning is back again this year. It was a well-received event last year and this year I’m sure it will be just as grand. You’ll get to socialize with Alumni while listening to a guest speaker named Darcy Matz, a Professional Training and Coaching Consultant, who will help to teach us all we need to know to get us through a business dinner properly. You will get to enjoy “a wonderful 3 course meal and learn the do’s and don’ts of eating in a business setting, as well as, learn skills you need to know to make small talk and network with people whom you don’t know. It’s great practice for interviews and other business dining situations with lots of helpful tips by our expert presenter and business coach Darcy Matz,” said Sara Tilton, Employer Relations/Marketing Coordinator Center for Service, Work, & Learning. So if you are looking for something beneficial for you to do on Nov. 12, a Thursday. come to the Etiquette Dinner. It is from 5:30PM-7230PM in the East Commons. There is only room for 50 students so please register by Nov. 4. You can get the flyer online and bring it to Anderson Hall, Lower Level, Room 23 or put it into the ingoing campus mailbox for CB 310 along with you check or cash of $10 for the dinner. This will be a wonderful event that everyone will Show less
Friday, October 16, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Page 7 A flight of the blandest fancy MOLLY BUDKE Stqfl' Writer With the seats half filled on a Tuesday night, the Guthrie Theater feels less like an airport than the last time I was here on a Saturday. As my friend and I find our com- fortable seats,... Show moreFriday, October 16, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Page 7 A flight of the blandest fancy MOLLY BUDKE Stqfl' Writer With the seats half filled on a Tuesday night, the Guthrie Theater feels less like an airport than the last time I was here on a Saturday. As my friend and I find our com- fortable seats, close enough to actually see the actors‘ faces, I begin to think that maybe, for the first time in one of the Guthrie’s larger two spaces, 1 will feel invited into a story by the actors, invited to be present in the way an audience is always capable of being with live theatre. (You see, I‘ve felt this rush of experiencing genuine, live theatre at its finest in the Guthrie‘s Dowling Studio, but never in the Wurtele Thrust or McGuire Proscenium Stages.) Then something changes. I hear the voice from the lobby, reminiscent ofa flight attendant’s, announcing fifieen minutes until Act I; I hear the woman sitting next to me turn to her husband to tell him she’s only tumed her cell phone to vibrate, so that she’ll know if someone‘s calling her dur- ing the show. 1 look around the audience and see myself surrounded by the markers of Minneapolis‘s upper middle class, and I remember where I am. I am at the Guthrie Theater, waiting to see a show geared towards the Guthrie‘s key audience. Like the woman sitting next to me. refusing to silence her cell phone, the “friends of the ans" the Guthrie has invited to be here tonight tend to believe that the theatre, the actors, the “oh, that‘s lovely“ set, are there for them. And the unfortunate truth is. they‘re right. They‘re the ones funding the airport ofa project the Guthrie Theater is, and they’re the ones the Guthrie would rather not challenge with anything more complex than the wit of the characters on tonight’s stage. The Importance of Being Earliest, writ- ten by Oscar Wilde, and directed by Joe Dowling is a fine show. Dowling. along with a fine set of actors tell a story I‘ve always loved with ease and the amount of energy I suppose I should expect for a Tuesday night’s performance. But something is miss- ing. There is no commitment to any idea. to anyjoke or physicality. No big choices are made. The show is fine, nothing is wrong with it, but it sure is bland. Intermission comes and 1 turn to my friend to chat about the first act. We‘ve been talking a few minutes when 1 realiye that 01 all the people 1 can hear around us. no one else is discussing what they‘ve just seen. The Guthrie has once again given us a pro- duction not worth talking about. because the audience they want filling their seats feels no need to talk about what they‘ve seen at any depth. This is an audience here to see a movie. not participate in a story, and in that the Guthrie’s done just fine. Go, if you want overpriced underwhelming theatre. or go because it's pretty cool that two recent Augs- burg graduates had their hands in this (Russ Dugger as an essential and Kayla Skarbakka as a dramaturgy intern) but don‘t go ifyou want your theatre to mean something. A dance for one ANDY Mums Echo Music Review 1 just got a new beta fish (his name is Dante) and have realized that he is perfectly happy swimming by himself in his one—gallon fish tank. This reminds me of how much I enjoy playing music by myself. I find playing solo pieces really allows me the freedom to express myself and create something beautiful. One of my favorite pieces that I have performed is from J.S. Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin, in particular the Sarabande from the B minor partita. This piece is obviously for solo violin, but can be played on other string instruments and, as I have, on marimba using four mallets. The piece is absolutely gorgeous and I urge you to YouTube the piece right now and listen to it while you read this article (it will take you about the same amount of time). J.S. Bach (1685-1750) is a man who needs no lengthy biography in this article; if you want to find out more about him, by all means find out his fasci- nating history either online or by visiting the Lindell Library. The Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin were written around 1720 but were not published for another 80 years afterwards. They are now'frequently performed and are an integral part of the serious repertoire for solo violin. The Sambande is a slow piece in three-four time that, when played on a violin, uses the technique where the violinist pulls the bow across several strings at one time, creating a chordal effect, One of the reasons this piece is easily transferable to keyboard percussion instruments is because the violin has four strings and modern mallet players ofien play with four mallets at once. two in each hand. However, it is difficult to play all four strings ofa violin at one time, so the player must do a very fast and tight arpeg- gio, where he or she plays the bottom and middle (or two middle) note(s) of the chord fairly fast and then holds the top note. The effect is beautiful to say the least, especially with the vibrato the player provides by furiously wavering his/her hand while the finger stays on the same note. When playing the piece on marimba, the per— cussionist can emulate that quick arpeggio sound by playing the chord in a similar fashion, where the bottom mallet strikes first, quickly followed by the next, and so on until all of the notes have sounded in quick succession. The marimba player may instead choose to play all of the notes at the same time, which offers a different color. The Sarabande begins with very slow, drawn out chords that tear one’s heanstrings along with those of the violin. The first section, the shorter of the two sections, is repeated and then moves on to the second section. There is a more urgent sense to the piece when the three quarter note chords mark the beginning of the second section, and the pace is slightly faster than the first. The ending (with optional repeat of the second section) with its delicate trills is possibly the most satisfying solo violin music I have ever had the pleasure of hearing (and playing). Bach is a master of chordal harmony and is able to create music that draws the listener in and makes him or her feel exactly how Bach wanted he or she to feel, in this case a sense oflonging and sorrow. I cannot do this piece justice with this simple use of words - you need to go listen this piece and hear it for yourself. 1 am melting inside while writing this article and listening to the piece for the tenth time. Check it out on YouTube or visit the Lindell Library and request a copy of the CD along with the rest of the Sonatas and Partitas, or ask one of the helpful circulation desk employees how to access the Naxos Online Music Library. Enjoy music. There goesthe neighborhood: Zombies return to the West Bank. A-LIST MALENA THOSON Aefi-E Editor Theater Rebecca Theatre in the Round Oct. 16 through Nov. 8 Fri-Sat. 8PM, Sun. 2PM 245 Cedar Ave, Minneapolis 612—333—3010 Tickets: $10 with student ID www.theatreintheround.org Ruined Mixed Blood Theatre Oct. 16 through Nov. 22 Fri-Sat. 7:30PM, Sun. 3PM 1501 South 4th St.. Minneapolis 612-338—6131 Ticket prices vary (student discount avail.) www.mixedblood.com Music DJ Center Dakota Jazz Club Saturday, Oct. 17. 11:30PM 1010 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis 612-332-1010 Cover: $10 www.dakotacooks.eom Art Exhibit Dirt on Delight Walker Art Center Target Gallery Through Nov. 29 1750 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis Tickets: $10 ($6 Walker members) Free Thursday evenings (5—9I’M) www.walkcrart.org ION PETERSON Contributor If you stayed in this passed Saturday night. you may have stayed warm, but you did miss the largest and oldest zombie pub-crawl in the \vorld...rising right of our own backyard! The fiflh installment of the West Bank Zombie Pub Crawl aptly entitled “It‘s Starting to Stink“ attracted more than 5,000 “zombies” to feast on drink specials. zombie- oke (karaoke for the risen dead), live bands and. allegedly. big juicy brains. The moribund mayhem began at Gold Medal Park at 4 pm. Saturday afiemoon as hundreds of zombies rallied to begin their bloodthirsty promenade down Washington Ave— nue into the Cedar-Riverside area The grotesque groans and swaggered marching continued through to the early hours of Sun- day morning as all ofthe 15 bars from the 501 Club to the C abooze were overtaken by hordes of the "undead" from all over the Twin Cities area. The streets were crowded and traffic dense as dozens of inebriated zombies light—heartedly swanned cars. pounded on store windows, and found countless clever ways to behave in an unruly manner. Amidst the drunken. collective chaos were zombie hunters. flesh—eaters. and civilians alike in all different colors. shapes, styles and sizes from all staggered walks of life. Odds are if you have heard of them, they were prob- ably in attendance: everyone from political figures such as Abraham Lincoln to feminist icons like "Rosie the Riveter," Overall, the annual freak fest included an eclectic onslaught of pop-culture stalwarts, famous athletes, artists, religious figures, and everything in between. Although some unsuspecting drivers on Cedar may have been terrified to find dozens ofzombies rocking their cars. overall. the pub—crawl was a safe and consistentl) entertaining success that redefined twin cities nightlife. In the words of hundred of drunken zombies "What do we want?“ “BRAINS!” "When do we want it?“ BRAAllNS!!" Show less
Page 8 Minneapolis, Minnesota THE BACK PAGE Augsburg business studentsexplore Friday, October 1-6, 2009 w. m... -i Mexico's economy up close JESSICA HAAS Contributor The first lntemational Business semester study abroad program ofthe Center for Global Education (CGE) is well underway in Cuernavaca... Show morePage 8 Minneapolis, Minnesota THE BACK PAGE Augsburg business studentsexplore Friday, October 1-6, 2009 w. m... -i Mexico's economy up close JESSICA HAAS Contributor The first lntemational Business semester study abroad program ofthe Center for Global Education (CGE) is well underway in Cuernavaca. Mexico! The program‘s five Augsburg students have been using Mexico as a case study to explore the global economy in their business course, and have participated in many educational excursions to deepen their coursework learning. From visiting the stock market and US Embassy in Mexico City to staying with local families and touring a five-star hotel in rural Amatlan. these Auggies are finding that the hands-on experiences offered by the program are a huge benefit. Kyle Soderberg. an Augsburg senior, says. “the interactive experienceswcxcursions and speakers create learning at another level so it‘s more relatable to careers and the future.“ Hannah Carlson. Mara Pederson. U niversidad‘ and Grady Christopherson second this comment. claiming the meetings with various businesses in Mexico City (such as Boing co-operative and the Central Bank) have so far been the highlights of the semester. The Augsburg students were initially attracted to the program for many reasons. Hannah was interested because she could do a little ofboth her majors—intemational rela— tions and Spanish—and be in a foreign country that wasn‘t too far away from home. Grady also looked forward to being able to attend Augsburg. just in a difierent location. Kyle. on the other hand, was excited about the available work experiences. He and fellow Auggie Kaity Berg will be completing an intemship with a local co-operative water park, working on their business and marketing plans. Aside from the coursework in business and Spanish, educational excursions, and internship placements. CGE's business program also offers its students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture ofMexico. According to Kaity. her most noteworthy experiences have come from her “interaction with Mexican people," especially during Left Photo: Augsburg students Mara Pederson, Kyle Soderberg, Kaity Berg, Hannah Carlson, and Grady Christopherson spend a day with local business students. Right Photo: Augsburg students (starting second to left) Kaity Berg. Grady Christopherson, Kyle Soderberg and Hannah Carlson, atop the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuaean. her four-day family home-stay in rural Amatlan. The experi- once made all the students look forward to their month-long home-stays with local families. which will begin in early November. Relating their experiences in Mexico back to life at Augsburg will not be difi‘icult. the students claim. Han- nah is already making connections between what she has previously learned about NAFTA and the visits the group has made to various local businesses. (The “presentation of opposing views" in particular is one of her favorite things about the business program.) Kyle agrees that the informa- tion he has learned in his major-specific courses is now “more relatable. more applicable, and makes more sense.“ As the semester progresses and students deepen their understanding about Mexico and international business, they will continue to make updates on their experiences in Cuemavaca. which can be found at www.cgeintemational- business.blogspot.com ERTY) Contributors If your birthday Is this week: Go nuts, birthday basher! lnstead ofchoosing between the Mozzarella Sticks and the Chicken Quesadilla Grande from Applebee's. order both. You‘ve camcd it! Your lucky numbers are 2 and 5. and celebrity birthdays this week include: Eleanor Roosevelt. Hugh Jackman, Kirk Cameron. Marie Osmond. Usher. Friedrich Nietzsche. and Angela Landsbury. OCOPES ].E.R.K. (JAMIE KRUMENAUER, EMILY PETERSON, RESHA ALBRECHT, KELLY DAUGH- Aries (Mar. 21 7 Apr. 19): The campus squirrels are practicing their invasive ma~ ncuvcrs against you this week. Feeding them your leftovers will only provoke their evil spirits. Taurus (Apr. 20 7 May 20): Something special will happen tonight. Hope you stopped at the “Cake and Condoms" event on campus! Nothing beats a moist piece ofchocolatc cake. Gemini (May 21 — Jun. 21): You will visit a faraway land that has been in your thoughts. And the leopluradon will show you the way. Cancer (Jun. 22 7 Jul. 22): Cancer. we deem you as “Lord ofthe Flame" this week. Use that power wisely! We‘ll be holding the extinguisher.just in case. Leo (Jul. 23 7 Aug. 22): You‘re so vain. You probably think this horoscope is about you. Virgo (Aug. 23 7 Sep. 22): For your own protection. and to prevent you from becom- ing “that kid“ in class. please remember that participating does not mean talking in circles and confusing everyone. Including yourself Libra (Sep. 23 7 Oct. 23): This weekend. take advantage ofthe crisp autumn air. That is. it‘this torrential downpour will break. Gather the lumber and start building the are. We‘ll corral up the livestock. in two's. Scorpio (Oct. 24 — Nov. 21): Be productive this week. Or get started on that flux capacitor. Neither seem very likely at this stage. Sagittarius (Nov. 22 7 Dec. 21): The universes \vill collide to create a new world of untapped potential lurking amidst the depths of your soul. Whatever that means. N ~ .7 w w By A ~hlc) Abbott Clues Down 2. We are models for our commu- The circles create two hidden words. nit}, ‘ 3. Where can you find sushi on carn- Across Puso '- The new“! ha“ 0" campus 4. IWeekend Evening College (abbr.) 7. Foot_. Volley_. Soft_, Base_ 5_ A place you can go for graduate 8. What happens on campus through school the fall (i.e. weather) 6_ Where could you used to get the best 9. Where the professors work food on campus? 15. The sound ‘n‘ makes 10. The Augsburg tower '6- _ IS an Augg‘é Thing _ 11. Auggies Life Long Leamers 18. A coffee shop in the neighborhood 12. Library that ends “:1 Tlmes _ 13. “ a note to follow so" 19. One thing Augsburg College stnves 14. Lam to and let , for 17, u a drink_ with jam—and bread" 20. Everyone 13, 1 come ! 21. may feed us-u-food? 21. What social science majors use to Capricorn (Dec. 22 7 Jan. 19): True Life: My horoscope sucks this week. sleep this week with the Hurricaneesque winds. Don't ask \\ hat gives it the name "dirty"... trust us You don‘t want to know. Aquarith (Jan. 10 7 Feb. 18.): May the sofi swaying of Mortensen Hall rock you to Pisces (Feb. 19 7 Mar. 20): Treat yourself to a Dirty Polar Bear this week at Cooper's. 22. Physical Education tabbr.) 23. We are on what bank of the Missis- sippi? 24. Are you a first_? 25. “71:31 issomethjng the Cross Country team does? 27. Oh no. the V~word!! 31. Augsburg students push for social document sources in a paper 26. What the computer/headphones/ video equipment is called in the libnry 28. Whatyouareoonsidemdafieryw graduate 29. Where the college is located 30. _ Nightlife 31.Cl$ssizesrangemughlyfiom_t022 Show less
Page 6 Minneapolis, Minnesota VARIETY Local author Y0 L5 explores his obsessions BETSY COLLINS Staff Writer As a professor, David Mura preaches writing about what you‘re obsessed with, and the man certainly practices what he preaches. Mura is whole-heartedly, and unabashedly obsessed with being... Show morePage 6 Minneapolis, Minnesota VARIETY Local author Y0 L5 explores his obsessions BETSY COLLINS Staff Writer As a professor, David Mura preaches writing about what you‘re obsessed with, and the man certainly practices what he preaches. Mura is whole-heartedly, and unabashedly obsessed with being Japa- nese American. The Famous Suicides of the Japanese Empire is Mura‘s first (and only, thus far) novel. but follows this thread of obsession that penetrates his other work (memoir, poetry, plays). Mura‘s novel follows protagonist Ben Ohara. a Japanese American and a professor of history, through his efforts to finish the book he‘s been writing for the majority ofhis professional life, also titled “The Famous Suicides of the Japa- nese Empire,“ Ben ‘5 personal obsession, suicide. stems from his childhood when his own father committed suicide. Ben '5 story may not be a fast-paced page-tumer, but instead the emotional and intellectual journey of a man trying to let go of his dad and discover his own personal history. His issues stem both from his own family (problems with his two young sons, and his wife who doesn’t understand what it’s like to be Japanese American), and from his family growing up. Ben‘s father was a No-No Boy, a Japanese American man who refused to profess loyalty to America during the Second World War. and later took his own life. Ben‘s younger brother disappeared into the Nevadan desert. high on heroin, never to be seen again, and his mother died with a blissful denial ofthese events. While Ben's story was interesting and compelling. l was more drawn to the trien- lions ofJapanese culture woven into the story. The Japanese folk tales told to Ben as bed—time stories were my favorite, but Mura also beautifully wove in the difiicul- ties culture gaps can bring for any child reared by first generation immigrants, and how Ben’s upbringing influenced the man that he became, for better or worse. Learning about suicide from a Japa- nese perspective was also enlightening and helpful in understanding Ben‘s emo- tional baggage. Suicide varies between the suicide ofhonor committed by a samurai, to a mother‘s suicide accompanied by the murder of her children (to save them from the pain caused by her absence). The Japanese differentiate between mo- tives. instead oflumping all suicides into one category, which brings depth to the suicide of Ben‘s father. The whole novel is told from the per- spective ofa depressed man in a midlife crisis. and you can tell. The tone of the story conveys more of Ben’s emotional . difiiculties than any one pan of the story, but it makes the story difficult to read for any longer period of time. I found myself needing to take breaks from it to perk up my mood. The only inconsistency, style-wise, was a few scenes told from outside of Ben‘s perspective. It seemed as though Ben somehow had his mother's memories. The few scenes told as such were confus- ing. and in the end, probably unnecessary. Overall, I thought the novel was worth reading. it was interesting for me especially, as a white American raised in white America, to see how Ben longed for his absent culture as he struggled to understand himself. However. the tone makes me, as a serial re-reader. doubt I‘ll submerge myselfin this dark story again. FRED TORVIK Contributor I hate giving backgrounds on hands like Yo La Tengo because Yo La Tengo has a re- ally uninteresting background. They started in the mid 805 after lra Kaplan and Georgia Hubley got out of college, bassist James McNew joined after a few albums, and by the early 905 they had become an established force on the indie rock scene; they continue to release consistently" great records. The thing about Yo La Tengo that IS interesting is their music (duh), which means that if 1 want the unfamiliar reader to know anything at all about this band (which 1 do). I’m basi— cally stuck describing and reviewing their fourteen album discography in the span of a paragraph. Here goes: starting in l990, Yo La Tengo has never released an album that wasn‘t sprawling, expansive. varied, and excellent. Unfortunately, sprawling, expansive, and varied can all be scary words when being used to describe a band you‘ve never seen live, and since excellence doesn't always make the jump from the studio to the stage, I was starting to wony about the $20 I knew I was never getting back for my concert ticket. However, having heard that they usually played pretty well, I went in feeling pretty good. The openers were called Cheap Time. It took me two minutes to draw a conclusion about their music: It’s pretty dumb. Even so, I couldn’t believe how much fun I had (for last week‘s readers, it was like the opposite of Grizzly Bear). They were a loud, punk-ish, party-rock band, and they weren’t about to let anyone forget it, but I didn't mind. It was cool to see a bunch of old, jaded hipsters partying to what sounded like The Smiths and The Ramones crashing into ACDC at “ludicrous speed.“ ’ Tengo Time! (Ha!) Anyway, typical concert trajectory was followed (intermis- sion, set up, headlining band comes on. plays a bunch of songs. leaves, comes back, plays encore, leaves again). Two things became clear as the concert progressed: l. I don't know Yo La Tengo's back catalog as well as I thought I did, and 2. l don't know Yo La Tengo's new album (Popular Songs) as engo Play at First Ave. well as I thought I did. However, this didn‘t really diminish the concert experience like it sometimes can. The songs I recognized were all changed in some way, and going back and listening to songs on the albums and noticing the differences has been really cool (kudos, Yo La Tengo). The material itself was a blend of old songs, new songs. loud songs, quiet songs. fast songs. slow songs, and just about every other extreme one could represent. There was really only one song type not represented: bad. Every song they played worked well both alone and in the context of the set list, which was the exact right length. The per- formances were awesome (with an exception l'll address momentarily). All three members of the band have great voices, both on their own and together in any combination, and they used them to great effect. Kaplan and McNew are both competent guitarists and bassists, and Georgia Hubley’s spare drum- ming complimented the rest of the music perfectly. Now 1 have to complain. Main guitarist lra Kaplan took extended noise-solos almost every song, and it really, really sucked. Maybe I would have enjoyed one or two on more punk or metal-influenced songs. but lush dreary swirl fests shouldn‘t end with wailing, our-amps-go-to-eleven guitar hero- ics, and they often did. Yo La Tengo played about fifteen songs, and at least thirteen of them had two minutes or more of pure noise. Conservatively, that‘s about 26 minutes of complete guitar fuzz. It sounded like a lawn mower, and I was not impressed (James and Georgia both shot Kaplan several dirty looks he failed to notice, sol think they felt the same way). This was my only issue with YTL's set, but it was really distracting, and it single-handedly prevented the show from being as amazing as it could have been. I guess I‘d still give Yo La Tengo's show a B (85 percent isn‘t bad at all). The noise was really the only thing wrong, but it was so bad that I still can't really think about anything else. Everything else was flawless. Writing bad things about a concert with so many wonderful attributes is not something I relish doing, but maybe one of these days. Ira will chill out a bit. If he does. Yo La Tengo will become one of the best live acts touring. Auggie at a Glance —Jessica Spanswick AusoN RAPP Columnist Jessica Spanswick has never been a typical student. The daughter ofa Master Chiefin the U.S. Navy. Span- swick spent the greater part of her childhood moving from Calitbmia to Washington. from Washington to Mississippi. and from Mississippi to Perham. Minn. (pop. 2.755). After spending her last three years of high school in Perham, Spanswick was confident she wanted to go to col- lege in the city: “I knew the first time I came on-campus that I wanted to come [to Augsburg]." said Spanswick. Although initially interested in a Social Work major, she ultimately declared herself an lntemational Relations major with a minor in Peace and Global Studies. Such a degree. one assumes (and con'ectly) is not lacking an emphasis in worldly aflairs. So Spanswick. early in her college career, took off for Namibia as part ofAugsburg's 2008-2009 CGE program in Windhoek. It took her nearly 25 hours to reach Windhoek. as the plane had stops in New York. Dakar. Johannesburg. and Cape Town. Once there. she toiled away for four hours a day in development. political science, religion. and history classes. She surged. however. that much of her time was spent out of the classroom. on field trips and other excur- sions organized by her pmgnun. One such trip had Spanswick in a homestay, eating sheep intestines: “It was so weird...they found it humor~ ous that I‘m a vegetarian." She went on. saying “I went to a celebration for a tombstone-unveiling. at which they slaughtered two goats, fried their testicles. and then offered a chunk to me, saying ‘You have to try it!‘ I did. It was very juicy.“ But Spanswick‘s experience was not all goat testicles and other hilarities: As most students who have studied abroad will tell you. Spanswick had her share of unpleas- ant moments. one of which still haunts her: “Before we lefi [our homestay]. my host-sister asked where we were headed next. I told her the Etosha National Park. like there was nothing to it. My host—sister's eyes lit up. and she said, in broken English, ‘That's so wonderful. I hope you have Spanswick explained that her host family didn‘t have enough money for even one day-pass to the park: “Who am I to go to her land and enjoy her park. when she can‘t afford to see it?" Though Spanswick has been back in the U.S. since last winter. she still struggles with the effects studying abroad has had on her beliefs: “It allowed me to rethink, as a [U.S. American]. my preconceptions of the ‘underdeveloped' world. and my role in trying to change inequalities." She also touched on an interesting pan of U.S. life, and how it differs from the nomis of Namibia: “1 think our obsession with beauty and women‘s roles was the hardest thing for me [to re~adjust adjust to]. In Namibia. l showered only every three to four days. I didn‘t wear makeup once. I didn't worry about the typical Western perception of beauty.” Yet. Spanswick has made sure her experiences abroad have affected her life here in positive ways. She is now a Sabo Scholar (those selected receive a scholarship for citi- zen engagement and community action), and works with Oxfam, coordinating a 350.0rg event at the Capitol. She also devotes large amounts of her time to tutoring at Trinity Lutheran. When asked what she‘d like to see Augburg students get more involved in, she answered “Not focusing on academics all the time is OK. Immerse yourself in the city—there's something for everyone to get involved in. [But]lthinkbeinganinterestingpersonistbcbestthing you can do.“ lfanything‘s certain, it's that Spanswick has not had a problem following her own advice. Her experi- encescouldteachusallathingortwoabomwtnth‘slfie to really live outside otn’ comfort zone. Show less
Page 4 Minneapolis. Minnesota OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS I? Prmidem Pribbenow I‘m traveling in Germany this week and thought it would be fining to reflect a bit on Augsburg‘s many ties to the world — ties that enhance our work in educating students for service in the world. The past couple of weeks have... Show morePage 4 Minneapolis. Minnesota OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS I? Prmidem Pribbenow I‘m traveling in Germany this week and thought it would be fining to reflect a bit on Augsburg‘s many ties to the world — ties that enhance our work in educating students for service in the world. The past couple of weeks have been fiill of reminders of the many relationships we enjoy with neighbors around the world ~ and at the same time. the relationships we have in our own local neighborhoods that offer us privileged standing in the work ofglobal citizenship. Two weeks ago we welcomed former Norwegian Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik, who now leads the Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights, for a dinner on campus where the theme for conversa- tion was the relationship between building healthy democracies in Africa and the role ofthe Africans living in the United States, Norway and elsewhere. In particular, we fo- cused on the challenges in nation-building in Somalia and then heard from several Somali leaders from the Twin Cities who helped us understand the distinctive challenges in un- derstanding the internal resources within the Somali community that need to be tapped if Somalia is to become a healthy and stable country. A week later we honored Professors Tove Dahl and Curt Rice with our distin- guished alumni award. Husband and wife Curt and Tove are 1984 graduates ofAugs- burg who now both teach at the University ofTromso in northem Norway. During their ASK PRESIDENT P. Augsburg and the world visit to Augsburg for Homecoming we spoke with them about Tromsa‘s particular focus on research in peace and conflict resolution and on indigenous cultures — both areas of interest within the Augsburg community — and made plans for possible faculty and student exchanges in the years ahead. During that same week, we had oppor- tunities on campus to visit with a delegation of distinguished professionals from Najif, Iraq, one of Minneapolis’ “sister cities." Many students and faculty gathered in the chapel to ask about life in Iraq and share thoughts about the common interests we share in education. international peace and healthy communities. I also had the pleasure last week to meet with Ana Luisa Fajer, the consul general for Mexico in the Twin Cities. Ms. Fajer had learned about Augsburg’s study site in Cuer- navaca and also about our many programs in the Twin Cities reaching out to the Mexican and Hispanic communities, and came with ideas about how we might partner with the Mexican consulate to provide opportunities for student internships, service projects and economic development partnerships. We look forward to pursuing many of those ideas in the months ahead. And now here I am in Germany, visiting Augsburg, the ancient German city (founded by the Roman emperor Augustus), which was the site ofthe drafiing and signing of the Augsburg Confession (or Confessio Augustana) in 1530, the ofificial founding of the Lutheran church. Augsburg is a city that has been visited many times by Augsburg students and faculty over the years. We were welcomed wan'nly by city ofiicials, proud of the fact that our college bears the city's name. The City of Augsburg Room in the Christensen Center — decorated with historic artifacts from Augsburg, Germany — is a symbol of the ties between Germany and Augsburg College. We also are visiting Leipzig, formerly in East Germany, where Minneapolis Lu- therans have long had relationships with the German Evangelical Lutheran Church, and where our visits at the University of Leipzig, the theological school, area hos- pitals and social service agencies — all tied to the church — are part of efforts to build partnerships of mutual benefit. All of this global activity in the span of a couple of weeks does not account for the many other international efiorts currently underway such as in our Center for Global Education sites in Latin America and Africa, our growing interests and partnerships in China (where Professor Bnice Reichenbach from the Philosophy department is currently on a faculty exchange visit), or the many other relationships we have around the globe in New Zealand, Vietnam, Russia, and the list goes on. So what does it mean to you that Augs- burg has these many international relation- ships. In my opening convocation address to our first year students, I asked: In what ways do our lives and work in the world recognize that local and global are For love of the game ROGER HUELSNITZ Opinions Editor To all the gamers, you Xbots and fan- boys. PC nerds, malcontents, and greasy- haired basement dwellers, this one's for you. I'll start off by saying, I love video- games. Currently. at age 25, I have seen an awesome evolution in the direction of this industry. For about 17 years I have had the utmost pleasure of experiencing some of the greatest games the industry has had to infer. For all of my life I have also loved watching movies. but now we have reached a certain era: the time of combined medi- urns. These two industries are falling in love. and although they‘ve already had a few ugly babies. I‘m sure better looking children are on the way. ’ou may have seen in entertainment news recently that Sam Raimi. (director of the Spidermml movies). is planning on directing a llhrIdo/‘llhn'rq/i movie. Raimi is quoted as saying he would like to stay faithful to the source material. Movie adaptations for video games have become very popular in the last few years. and you can expect more where that came from. as the bowels of Hollywood excrete more of them in the future. We‘ve all seen our share of crap—tastic videogame-based movies. All we can hope is that Uwe Boll's grubby little kraut hands don‘t end up on a camera, ever again . . . but I digress. What I hope is that these adaptations become better as time goes on, which I am sure they will. The problem is that many filmmakers are trying to make a video— game-movie, rather than a videogame- based movie. but they are leaming. These things take time unfortunately, but rest assured, Academy Awards will be hand- ing themselves to video game movies in the future. Who knows, the technology is becoming so photorealistic. we won't even need real actors, they‘ll be nominating vir- tual beings. They‘ll give best acting awards to the programmers of the characters. The melding of movies to games has already begun, but the truth is, video games are more ofien than not a much better value than running to your local theater. You can go with your partner and blow twenty bucks at the movies. or blow sixty bucks and have hundreds of hours of entertain- ment. Ultimately, movies just don‘t provide the level of interactivity that games do. It‘s a difi‘erent kind of experience. We watch movies when we want to relax and sink inextricably bound together — that we learn in our rich and immediate context lessons that are relevant for neighbors around the world? At Augsburg. we pursue the call to global citizenship no matter where we find ourselves - whether here in Cedar-River- side, in Zhuhai, China. Managua, Nicaragua or wherever your journeys take you. I urge you to visit both the countries around the world where Augsburg has relationships and the local Starbucks or the Somali malls or the largest urban Na- tive American reservation in Phillips or the Mexican businesses along Lake Street to learn about the links between local and global — about politics and commerce and technology and science in your neighbor- hood and around the world. And I ask you also to consider the impact of your behavior on those around the world. Ask your questions about free and fair trade, as we did during our Sustain- ability Month in September, and then accept the fact that you can make a difference here and around the world with the choices you make, the understanding you gain, the posi— tions you take, and the passion you bring to telling your stories of global citizenship. It’s all there for you to make a part of your Augsburg education. Don't miss these remarkable opportunities. Remember to send your questions for President Pribbenow to : echo@nugsburg.edu. into the couch. We don‘t have to physically do anything, but we can rack our brains on the themes of the film if we want, but it‘s a choice. With games. we “have” to interact. We may not leave the couch, but we are drawing ourselves into the world by con- trolling the movement of our characters. This becomes immersive, and can affect our emotions. Ofcourse. you may laugh or cry at the movies, but you're reacting to what you’re seeing. rather than ‘creating‘ the reactions that you‘re seeing. Do you see the differ- ence? Although video games are a better value for your buck, the combination of these two mediums is a beautifiil thing, if they can just get the formula right. Well, World of Warcraft and Gears of War are on their way. Prince of Persia, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, will be hitting theaters in the near future, and the script is being completed for PlayStation 2‘s sleeper hit (and fantastic) “Shadow of the Colossus." The Halo movie would have been on the horizon, but the BOO-million dollar project has been delayed and tossed around for years. Don’t worry though, I think Peter Jackson will eventually helm the project, let‘s just cross our fingers on that one. There are a couple of adaptations I‘m most looking forward to. I’m ecstatic on the concept of a Fallout movie, it‘s a great franchise, and you know it‘s coming to the cinema eventually. However, I will bludgeon and drop-kick the person who ruins that script. The Legend of Zelda is also one I‘ve had my mind on for awhile now. If given the chance, I would dedicate heart and soul to write that film, it would be truly epic experience. I don‘t really know if this will be done as a film or not, it‘s hard to say. Although The Legend of Zelda is a famous and well-respected game fi'anchise, I have my doubts that it will ever be made into a movie. Right now, it seems producers are concentrating on the more predictable blockbuster titles like Gears of War. Al- though Gears will probably be entertaining, it won‘t be “really” great, but that‘s okay. as I stated before, they‘re teaming Videogame-based movies will be better. I‘m confident that in the coming years, we'll not only have awesome, huge budget blockbuster game movies, but also well-acted and intricately scripted little gems as well. It won't be long before the art of video game creation, and the games themselves, will be unanimously regarded as a true, form of “art.” MORAN, page 1 For Moran. music infuses historical. personal. and therapeutic elements. Afler playing “Out Front,“ a song by his mentor and friend Jaki Byard. Moran spoke to the self—gratification and soul-searching that happens in art: “The artist reflects something you see within.“ Through his other songs, "Blue Blocks" and "Planet Rock.“ Auggies felt the depth and power of jam. “His music is excellent. deep and profound, emotional and student Geoffrey Gill said. Moran provided wisdom for young pianists: “There are two things that you need to do. practice something that you really like and listen to music that you don‘t listen to.“ By listening to a lot of his father‘s LP‘s and playing more, Moran worked on taking small ideas, like a major scale. and expanding them across the piano. These teaching models are crucial for jazz edueation. ‘ “It is hard to teach any art form, espe- cially as an artist, but you have to understand the history of music to move forward,” Moran said. As a teacher, Moran stressed the importance of telling the story, as music being a code for oppressive mistreatment, slavery, and truth. “It‘s about looh'ng at music as a right,“ Moran added. The most important thing for Moran, asaperformerandapersomistoremain completely honest and present in the mo- ment: “You have to take each performance as if it were your last 11m might sound clicbé, but it‘s true," Moran said. Through difiicult moments, like the quick pasing ofhis mother, Moran learned to value the u'anscendenceofmusic. For Brandy Hyatt, an Auggie artist, Moran‘s wortk and music were “You can take away much from what an artistaspirestobe. Itopensyoutothepoe— sflailities ofyotn’ownm" Moran's musicflowslikeitsawnlan— guage. It’smixnneofpersomtity,divusity, andanisrrybatsplmantly,yetuofwndty ootheearsofthosewbolistar. Show less
Friday, October 16, 2009 } . Minneapolis, Minnesota Augsburg dominates - Concordia steals the points LARS Hum Stafi' Writer A last minute goal from Jared Ryce secured the win for Concordia College- Moorhead when they visited Augsburg last Saturday. Looking for their first MIAC win of the month,‘the... Show moreFriday, October 16, 2009 } . Minneapolis, Minnesota Augsburg dominates - Concordia steals the points LARS Hum Stafi' Writer A last minute goal from Jared Ryce secured the win for Concordia College- Moorhead when they visited Augsburg last Saturday. Looking for their first MIAC win of the month,‘the Auggies couldn‘t turn chances into goals, despite having posses- sion most of the game. Ahmed Gobana, Peter Osborn and Peter Loyd all had opportunities to put the home team ahead before the break. but a lack of efficiency and some solid saves from the Concordia goalkeeper left the game goalless afier the first 45 minutes. Augsburg kept creating chances in the second half, pushing for a winning goal. Alex Hildebrandt had the biggest chance after a seventieth minute comer kick, but the Concordia goalie produced another great save, denying the captain a chance to put Augsburg in front. Jeff Butler was also close to glory, but his deflected shot from outside the 18-yard box went just over the crossbar. Jared Ryce punished the Auggies for their inefiiciency in the only way that counted when he ran past an otherwise solid Augsburg defence and scored the last min« ute winner, allowing the visitors to leave Edon Nelson Field with all three points. Augsburg had twenty shots and fourteen comer kicks throughout the game, com- pared to Concordia‘s six shots and one corner kick. Assistant Coach Jonathan Schaefer thought the game should have ended differently. “It was unfair. We couldn’t score today, but we play the way we’re supposed to. We just have to keep going now and work hard in training,“ Schaefer said afler the game. Augsburg goalie Pascaul Venter. who had to see the ball go past him with fifiy seconds lefi, admitted it was tough to lose. but had praise for his colleague at the other end of the field. ' Venter said, “They had a really good goalie that produced many important saves. But we outplayed them completely and should have won. They scored on the only chance they got, and that’s why we lost.“ Even though the atmosphere in the Augsburg locker room wasn't the best afier Saturday’s match, Venter is sure they will soon be back on track. “We are obviously very disappointed now as we played so well but still lost,“ Venter said, “but we will be back next game. As long as we keep on doing the same things, it will work out. We played great soccer tonight." The next home game for the Augs— burg Men‘s Soccer team is Oct. 17. when the Auggies play Carleton College. In the meantime they will travel to Arden Hills to face Bethel University. Augsburg Men's Soccer Team Statistics Shot Statistics Goals-Shot attempts 15/206 Goals scored per game 1.36 Shot pct. .073 Shots on Goal - attempts 81/206 SOG pct. .393 Shots/game 18.7 Assists 14 Corner Kicks I Goals oil Corner Kicks I 1 Penalties Penalty Kicks 1/1 Yellow Cards 3 Red Cards 0 Page 3 SPORTS Men’s Golf: Swinging Their Way to the Top Photo taken by Dan Sto LAURA Mora Stafl Writter Augsburg men's golf finished eighth in the MIAC conference tour- nament. which was held the weekend of Oct. 3. The young team hopes to continue improving through their spring season. This year‘s team consists of thirteen young men and the head coach Ted Vickerman, who was once an Augsburg golfer. The golf team has a split season: they play six tournaments in the fall. and six tournaments in the spring. However. the fall season is the one that really counts. “The fall is the more imponant part of the season because so much rides on the conference tournament.“ Vickerman commented. The teamjust finished their fall season at the beginning of October. and so far it’s been an unforgettable season. Each player can recall at least one memory. whether it had to do with tournaments or teammates from their fall season. Joel Kociemba. junior. remem- bered a moment when he proved his coach wrong. “During an event. our coach told me on the next hole, a par 5. I could not get home in two. This isn‘t something I hear too often and wanted to prove him wrong.“ Kociemba continued. “I hit a dc- cent tee ball into the fairway. 1 followed this shot up with another 250 yard shot into the green and missedjust to the right. but pin high. I chipped in for eagle with somewhat of a crowd due to a backup on the next hole with the coach standing there." First-year golfer Zach Johnson remembered a more comical mo- ment. “Terry, another guy on the team. told the lady at Perkins that she has really nice muffins. I think he was trying to hit on her." Memories keep these men shewen@augsburg.edu ner working hard on and off the green. Their practice is described as fun. but focused at the same time. They practice at Columbia Golf Course. Two days a week they play competi- tive games and do drills on the range: the other two days they play nine holes. Their hard work has helped them continue to improve as a team. Kociemba commented on their success this season, “We started off strong in our first event, and put up two solid team scores. The rest ofthe year we struggled to put the rounds together in tournaments. We did, however, put together a solid team score for the last day of the MIAC championship.“ The MlAC Championship is always the highlight and focus for most sports, and golfisn't an excep- tion. With their overall finish in 9th place. coaches and players know there is a lot of room for improve- ment. Vickerman talked about this year‘s MIAC tournament. “I was very proud of shooting 307 on the last round in conference. Each player gave it their best clfort in the MlA(‘ Championship and that is all I can ask of them. (iolf is a weird game. One day you have it and the game sccms easy and the next day you are puzzled as to what happened. So l was happy that we finished our last round in conference with a respect- able score and pro\ ed to ourselves that we can compete against the teams In our league." They definitely have time to prepare and continue to imprmc until there spring season. Brian Dcuel. sophomore, has high hopes for the future of men's golf, "I think this spring wrll show the tough work we put in thts winter and next fall we should have a good conference." Contact our Sports Editor. Ed Shewen at: Show less
l Friday, October 16, 2009 .fi} i”; “Courtesy and the Ten Minneapolis, Minnesota Commandments BECCA ANDERSEN Contributor Walking through the bustling campus right before class at 9: 10 am, I notice doors being held open for the next person swinging through, colli- sions being apologized for, and... Show morel Friday, October 16, 2009 .fi} i”; “Courtesy and the Ten Minneapolis, Minnesota Commandments BECCA ANDERSEN Contributor Walking through the bustling campus right before class at 9: 10 am, I notice doors being held open for the next person swinging through, colli- sions being apologized for, and smiling eye contact between passersby. These small acts of consideration are at the heart and soul of Augsburg‘s good vibrations. Although the “good vibrations” l’m refening to isn‘t the pop single by the Beach Boys, but an aura that conveys warmth to visitors. This defines a much welcomed norm for students and faculty. It is still “giving me excitations." Courtesy. It's something that’s lacking in be- tween classes in a high school hallway, and racking up your kudos in a job interview. It reaps friendship and manners, expresses gratitude and offers hospital- ity, and gives respect and civilizes human contact. Common courtesy is a term that can be widely misunderstood, faked, overdone, and confused, but when utilized correctly, can lay the foundation for understanding, acceptance, and compromise. Everyday environments such as city streets. businesses, schools, and work places do not embody courteous actions. Although Augsburg exemplifies cordiality through its students and faculty, there is always room for improvement within the treatment of others regardless to whether exploitation occurs, within one’s actions or thoughts. Gossip, criticism, stereotyping, judgment, pre- dispositions, and unnecessary exaggerated superior- ity are all offenses that exist prominently, The thought that all it takes to arouse contro- versy is people merely being in the presence of oth- ers is distressing, but what other conclusion exists? How do we restrain ourselves from catty behavior whenever personalities disagree? How do humans learn to get past differences, look for the good in each and every one of their peers. and accept them as the people they have come to be? Knowing the human race isn’t going to just throw up their hands and convert the way they think, act, and dress in order to please others, why do we resist maturity by letting such despicable conflict flow? Because 1 am just as guilty of judgment, criti- cism, and gossip, I have recently played with the idea of utilizing a certain tool in order to keep my courtesy in check. For century afler century, the Ten Command- ments have halted murderers, adulterers, thieves, and liars in their tracks. Motivation for Christians to keep God’s law lies somewhere between the fear ofGod's wrath, the desire to honor him, and the will to be decent. Millions have kept the Ten Commandments sacred, and in their practice of doing so, have found peace with themselves and their neighbors. They have rid their lives of greed, insolence, and disre— spect, and have learned the true meaning of civility. My proposal is this: no matter your accepted wotrld view, or your reasoning for keeping God‘s law, be it religious or not, follow the Command— ments. Show anyone you come to pass that there is still hope for a collective understanding of respect throughout the world. Obey, serve, and love your mother and father while leading a decent life. Improve and protect the property of neighbors, coming to their defense and speaking well of them. Do away with desiring, lying, stealing, and dishonoring. If we can do that. the act of instilling humility, honesty, consideration, and honor. will fall into place as subconscious goodness within oneself. Notes from the loyal opposition: What would really make us healthier? PHIL ADAMO Associate Professor of History As in the rest of the country, there is a fu- ror brewing over health insurance coverage at Augsburg College. The Administration, in an attempt to “find solutions to the ever increas- ing costs associated with our health plans,“ has decided to gather a little data about the health of our community. ln a memo entitled “Preparation for the 20] 1 Plan Year," distributed by the Office of Human Resources (HR), we learn of plans to gather data from “all current Blue Cross/Blue Shield (BCBS) enrollees“ on body mass indices, as well as blood pressure and cholesterol levels. All of this is to be done “to reward those employees who manage key health indicators.“ “Reward” means the healthy pay less. while the unhealthy pay more. This may seem fair to some, but it also has a “blame the victim“ feel to it. Is it right for insurance companies to blame the sick for the high cost of the high-tech, specialist-centered, chargefor—procedure system they call "health" care? To return to the HR memo: individual information from these screenings will not be given to the College, but the College will collect aggregate data to “to address issues like heart disease, diabetes.“ The memo does not tell us, one way or the other, whether aggregate data will be shared with BCBS. Could BCBS actually use this data to increase our rates? If cost management is the issue, as the memo claims, studies have shown that preventive screening is not an efi'ective response. Accord- ing to an article in The New England Journal of Medicine (2008, 358:66l-663), “Sweeping statements about the cost-saving potential of prevention are over-reaching.“ And if better health is the issue, the effectiveness of collecting data like body mass and cholesterol level is dubi- ous. More and more studifi link overall health to socioeconomic status and job satisfaction. Socioeconomic status? An article in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior (1995: 80-94). “question[s] the emphasis on such individually-based risk factors [like high choles- terol], and argue[s] that greater attention must be paid to basic social conditions if health reform is to have its maximum efiect." And what about job satisfaction? According to a study published by the Education Resources Information Center (ERIC# ED145297), people with “jobs [that] provided feelings of personal achievement and were high on challenge and financial rewards reported better health, fewer medical and stress symptoms, lower levels of psychoactive drug use. and higher overall life satisfaction than [those] whose jobs were low on these dimensions." If the Administration is concerned about the overall health of the Augsburg community. it should develop plans to improve the social conditions and job satisfaction of its employees. What would that look like at Augsburg? This is a complicated problem that requires multiple strategies. As President Obama likes to say, “Change won‘t come easy." Here‘s just one possible solution: consider developing a co-op health care plan for Augs- burg College. Engage some of our Business and Economics and Nursing and Physician As- sistant professors to work on it. Throw in some professors in those disciplines from the ACTC. and even the U of M. Add some of our Regents who are MDs, and even some from the business world! What might come of this? \Vith all that talent, wouldn‘t it be possible for the College to develop a co-op health plan that would really benefit Augsburg‘s employees? Can we imagine a health care plan in which we are not beholden to the (ironically profit—driven) non-profit leviathan known as Blue Cross/Blue Shield? Page 3 OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS This week‘s WTF Augs- burg goes out to the residents ofAnderson Hall. Someone decided it would be a great idea to par- tially consume, and then shat- ter a bottle omeimoffVodka in the lobby, on Sept. 9th, the first night ofclass. This does not mean that I am disappointed in the stu< dents for drinking on the first night of class — do whatever you want. but make sure you aren't putting others in dan- ger. Have the decency to call Public Safety (x1717 if you forgot) and let them know there is a broken bottle in a high trafifick area. You don‘t even have to admit that it was your fault. just tell the dispatcher (who is ALWAYS there to answer 24/7) that you found a shat- tered bottle. that could poten- WTF Augsburg? ANDY MYERS Staff Writer tially hurt another resident or guest. I‘m not sure what time this occurred, but I know that no one reported it to DPS to have it cleaned until 4 a.in., which is when I walked in and called them myself. Have some sense of own- ership when it comes to your place of residence » you wouldn't want me coming into your damn and shuttering bottles all over your floor. WTF to you irresponsible residents ofAnderson Hall. Remember that other people live there too and you are jeopardizing their safety by leaving broken glass all over the floor. Pizza Lucé: Served with Tattoos and Rock 8LtROll _ < IOHNATHAN C. Food Critic I‘ve been to Pizza Luce a lot of times and have ordered out pizza from them pretty often. So, when I went with my girlfriend and her parents this week. I de- cided to be a little adventurous. It was a learning experiencc for me. We ordered the appetizer sampler, which I thought was going to consist of a small por« tion of each of Lucé‘s different types of appetizers. it didn‘t. It was a bunch of dilTerent dipping sauces for garlic bread. Luckily, the bread was amazing! It was nice and garlicky. So overall, the appetizer sampler wasn't that bad... it just wasn‘t what I was expecting. Next. we ordered pizza Lupé and a Margareta pim. They were both pretty good. Not my favorite lunch pizzas, but they were me- diocre. The Margareta had lots of cheese, whereas the pim Lupe was kind of like a taco pizza, which sounds cool, but it was a little disappointing. The ambience was fiin, kind ofa “‘yippee!“ piua place. It was a Friday when we went so it was crowded and loud and we had a difficult time carrying a conversa- tion over the noise. ttttttt Then, I went again for there lunch special. It‘s from 12 pm. to 3 pm. and you get a slice ofpizza and a salad. 1 made the mistake of getting a Greek salad ~l don‘t like olives. So, in the end the salad was not that great. The pizza. though, was excellent. I got the “Hono» lulu“ slice and it was amazing. It had Canadian bacon. pineapple and green onions. Also, during lunch. the res- taurant was quieter and had less people, which was nice. My friend and I got seated quickly and ordered right away. The service was fast and friendly. [I was a nice quiet place to have conversation. They also had local an up on the walls, which is always nice to see. Pizza Luce' has a lot of spe- cials. They have a daily happy hour that consists of a pint and a slice for SS. Which is a pretty good deal! Pizza Lucé is located only about two blocks from school. across l-94 on Franklin. Next week I‘ll be going to one of the Chinese or Vietnamese restaurants on Riverside. Show less