Friday, October 9, 2009 EnsimnwaN Sportsm Another branch of the elite fall sports lineup here at Augsburg College is the women’s volleyball team. Female Auggies started ofl‘ the season strong putting together a 12—9 (.571 winning percentage) record to date, also compiling a 3-1 conference record.... Show moreFriday, October 9, 2009 EnsimnwaN Sportsm Another branch of the elite fall sports lineup here at Augsburg College is the women’s volleyball team. Female Auggies started ofl‘ the season strong putting together a 12—9 (.571 winning percentage) record to date, also compiling a 3-1 conference record. With a busy schedule, Augsburg women’s volleyball has shown their success in completing twenty-one matchups. The women’s head volleyball coach is Jessica Rinehart who works closely with her three assis- tants. Aside from executive leadership, strong leaders are apparent within the fiamework of the team. Seniors Shanna Reed and Dani Tanaka are co—captains of this year’s squad. When asked of her success Reed said, “Overall our play has continued to be better by each week. Our new players are coming into their own; their confidence is up, along with their talent. The returners are also improving their game.” Keeping an open mind and alluding to the fact that the season isn’t over yet, she said, “We’ve been practicing hard and our best play is still to come.” With another month to go in the regular season we wonder what more the lady Auggies are capable of. When I r n 1 Women’s Volleyball: Setting up for a good season asked to comment on her goals for the near future, Reed stated, “Our overall goal this season is to make the MIAC playoffs. As of now we are 3-1 in the conference, tying us at third place. Our other goal is to be consistent and start games strong. We just want to take the rest of the season game by game and come out every time playing Auggie volleyball.” Reed was very firm about stressing the “we” aspect behind her comments. In displaying this non-selfish atti- tude, she continued with what her team would have to do to achieve their goals for this season, “We need to continue to practice hard and stay consistent. Mental toughness is what will push is through the rest of this season. If we achieve these, our goals are easily in reach.” Auggies fall short during Homecoming Game Last Saturday, crowds cheered in hopes for anAuggie win on the Edor Nelson football field. Unfor— tunately, Augsburg was no match for Hamline University, losing 38-28. Going into the game, morale was both confident and high. Hamline and Augsburg both had a record of 1-2 after three games so far this fall. With a crushing win against St. Olaf last homecoming game, the team was hoping for a similar outcome. Andrew Bergeson, senior linebacker, emphasized team morale before the game, “Going into the game we were all very confident in our abilities and in our game plan.” Fellow senior linebacker, Adam Ebert continued, “We were confident in the game plan and our abilities. We never imagined losing to Hamline.” Unfortunately, confidence couldn’t keep the Augsburg Aug— gies from an upsetting lost. Out of a history of 14 games against Hamline, Augsburg has only lost two. However, there were still tremendous plays throughout the game. Marcus Brumm, quarterback, completed 25-of-46 passing for three touchdowns for Augsburg. Muneer AI-Hameed, receiver, caught 13 passes for 176 yards and Mike Nourie, receiver, caught seven passes for 134 yards. Defen- sively, Adam Mead had 12 tackles, Andrew Bergeson had 10 tackles and Adam Ebert and John Hibbs had nine tackles respectively. Hamline had an early lead over Augsburg 24-7 in the third quar- ter but coaches and players still thought they would be able to take over. Bergeson explained, “During the entire game I believed that if we played up to our potential and that eventually we would win the game. And there were glimpses of that; but for the most part we did not play as well as we all know we can.” Ebert added, “During the game I was still very confident that we, as a team, would come out on top.” Homecoming week definitely added to the intensity of the fans, the players and the coaches. All week the team was getting pumped up and mentally prepared for a win that Saturday. Bergeson commented on the difference between a typical game and homecoming week. “Home- coming is always one of the best weeks of the year, and this year was no different. The atmosphere on campus all week is always great because everyone is excited and ready for a fun week. Once the game starts nothing matters but the game. Aplayer needs to forget about all of the other things that go along with homecoming week and just focus on the game. I believe our team did a good job of doing this.” Everyone was hoping for a win, but the team will have the opportunity to redeem itself this Saturday, Oct. 10, when Augsburg will be hosting Carleton. There are six more games until playoffs, and the Augsburg football team still has a lot to prove. As for future games Ebert and Bergeson said, “The Auggies are going to start winning." Minneapolis, Minnesota Photo taken by Stephen Geftree Reed seemed focused, and needs to be, as she is the senior captain of the team. Page 3 SPORTS Putting the focus on some other team lead- ers Reed said, “All of our seniors on our team have stepped up and have been per- forming great. Senior middle hitter Barbara Simmons has been playing outstanding so far. She is definitely a key player out on the court.” Alluding to the depth of her team Reed put the attention on upcoming freshman. Amanda Unze. ‘ “She enters each game being mentally J ‘ tough and competitive. She has an insanely ‘ hard hit and she is always comes ready to play." said Reed. Augsburg women‘s volleyball only has another short month of competition left. Their next home match will be on Oct. 15 against Concordia College. So get out and see this leadership first-hand and support the lady Auggies on their quest to the MIAC Playoffs! Ceach Profile: John Harris; Men’s Lacrosse Head Coach En SHEHWEN Sports Editor A student organization that has undoubtedly been booming with success this past year is the Augsburg men’s lacrosse team. Although men’s la— crosse is a student organization, they rely on outside assistance for their experience. This is where the role of head coach John Harris comes into play. Harris was captain of his lacrosse team while playing at St. Thomas University. His role as a team leader brought St. Thomas to the MCLA National Championship Tournament in 2006 and 2007. Ironically, St. Thomas is Augsburg’s archrival in the competition of Minneapolis club lacrosse. Now working for the opposition, Harris brings his expertise to Augsburg turf in hopes of getting a young, talented lacrosse team off the ground and in the air, where Auggies belong. Harris spoke of how he wants to bring his skill and knowledge to Augsburg, “During my time as a player, we went from a 1-13 team to a 12 - 2 record and a UMLL Championship. It takes a few years to build a program, and with great support for the Augsburg Student Senate, Augsburg Athletic De- partment and the player’s parents, we have been able to get this thing moving in the right direction. In addition, I have brought on former teammate Andy Lee as Assistant Head Coach, which has been a great help for the team. “Assistant Coach Andy Lee was a teammate of Harris’ at St. Thomas. Knowing that Augsburg is young, Harris holds high standards on the experienced players. “Some of the veteran players such a Ryan Gilmartin. Kevin Drakulic, Joe Hillegas and Max Brown-Posteri have worked very hard this off-season to get better.“ Not just alluding to his strengths. Harris ex- claimed how he is very optimistic about the young talent apparent on the team. Harris concluded, “I love to coach and am very passionate about lacrosse afler I graduated from the University of Saint Thomas. I did not want to walk away from the game so coaching was the next logi— cal progression. This was a first year team. so being able to start from scratch, build the program and put my stamp on things was very appealing." Look out for Harris and the Augsburg men‘s lacrosse team as they take the field for their third official season as a club team. The team‘s 2009—10 debut will be on Oct. 10 and 11 at Lakeville High School South in the 11th annual Hotdish invitational. Player Profile: Adam Ebert M Staff Writer Senior Linebacker for Augsburg Football. Adam lzbcrt. isn't it rookie for Augsburg Football. This is his senior year. and he‘s one of the top linebackers on the team. Last season he had 57 tackles. and this year he has a total of 33 after only four games. When asked what he likes and brings to the football program he said. “1 like the team camaraderie and I think 1 bring a lot of leadership to the team." Ebert is described as quite the character and clown when dc~ scribed by fellow teammates and students. A colleague said. "libcn isjust Ebert. he‘s a down to earth. funny. good guy." “My favorite thing about Augsburg is the girls... And foot— . Q ball...“ Eben said. Othhe football field hejokes that his career goal is to be a pro» fessional volleyball player and his favorite musician is Miley (‘yrus But really. Ebert is studying biology and hopes to be accepted into medical school. Ladies, Eben not only plans on becoming a doctor but he holds top weight-room records. Eben has big goals regarding his profes- sional career. but as for now he hopes to finish his senior year with a winning football season. Show less
Friday, October 9. 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota OPINIONs/ EDITORIALS Page 5 —T by Erica Malloy WTF Augsburg? ANDY MYERS Stafi Writer Before I begin, let me clarify: WTF Augsburg is not directed at anyone in particular and not trying to blame anyone or any organization. It is rather to keep the... Show moreFriday, October 9. 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota OPINIONs/ EDITORIALS Page 5 —T by Erica Malloy WTF Augsburg? ANDY MYERS Stafi Writer Before I begin, let me clarify: WTF Augsburg is not directed at anyone in particular and not trying to blame anyone or any organization. It is rather to keep the college that I love (and pay ‘a lot’ to attend) up to the reasonable expectations I have. You could say the goal of this article is to initi— ate changes that will better our home. Thank you to Danny Nguyen for his response to last week’s article about the AClub Grille deep fryer. I am looking for- ward to frequenting the AClub Grille and getting one of their delicious cheeseburgers. Yes I am writing another A’viands-related WTF Augsburg article. For those of you who were here last semester, this is old news. I’ll be the first to admit, A’viands is an easy target, partly because I utilize their services nearly every day. Please note that the “ORGANIC’S” signs in question may have been put up by the student organization that However, the signs were in the dining room, which is one of the faces of A’viands. When I think of anything associated with the food service, I think A’viands. For the freshmen readers, here is a piece of Augs- burg’s history the institution would like to sweep under the rug. When ‘Inside Augsburg’ featured the green initia— tive as its top news story a couple weeks ago, the apos- trophe was noticeably absent. I say congratulations to whoever successfully used Photoshop to remove the apostrophe from the picture. I couldn’t even tell there was a space between the C and the S. This week’s (notice the correct usage of an apos- trophe) WTF Augsburg goes out to A’viands, and the green initiative students, for not caring over 8 months ago. This also goes to the person who decided the sign needed to be edited before being put on the homepage. Thank you to the person who finally took the signs down. If you are confused about this article, please go pushed for Augsburg to start a compost program. see the fantastic Writing Lab crew. Diversity: What are we selling? ASHLEY ABBATE Columnist The Augsburg College mission state- ment is: “To nurture future leaders in services to the world by providing high quality education opportunities, which are based in the liberal arts and shaped by the faith and values of the Christian Church, by the context of a vital metropolitan setting, and by an intentionally diverse campus community.” This can be found under the ‘About‘ page under ‘Mission Statement.’ This is the general description of an Auggie on the front of the Undergraduate Admission page: “Auggies are loosely defined as ‘Augsburg students, professors, and like-minded individuals.’ Behavior— ally, Auggies are known for pushing the envelope and changing communities. They regularly one-up the competition, but prefer the thrill of the game. Auggies are for real, they don‘t pretend, posture, or pontificate.” So what are we selling exactly, to potential students, and current ones. in- tentional diversity. like-mindedness, both? Wait, how can we be both? How is diversity defined? In the OED, it is defined as: the condition or quality of being different, or varied; difference, and unlikeness. How does Augsburg define it? Di— versity is in ethnicity, color, politics, and religion? Like-mindedness is defined as people who think the same in politics, re- ligion, and every other facet of life. How can we be diverse if we are alike? The very definition of diversity is unlikeness. We have quite a contradiction on our advertising pages. On another note, who are these like—minded individuals, the teachers, the students, both together? By all accounts, Admissions has the ‘like-minded individuals’ in their own category, if you look at the grammar of the statement. I’d like to know just who these people are. Am I one of them? Are my neighbors? I can guarantee I think differently than anyone else on campus; and everyone else on campus should be able to say that as well. If they can’t say they think differently than others, then they are either robots or sheep. If our mission is to ‘nurture firture leaders.’ then we are in a sorry state with robots and sheep wandering around cam- pus. To further the impact of this contra- diction, what are potential students led to believe? That we are intentionally diverse, like-minded, or that we are a collective oxymoron because that is what a like- minded individual is, an oxymoron. ' That is like saying ‘we are diverser like-minded.’ How is this possible? The potential students who catch this little glitch in our advertising campaign are not going to come. Do we really want the students who don’t catch this, to be on our campus and in our classrooms? It’s hard to understand what a school stands for if it contradicts itself. Espe- cially about something as dire as this, because it can potentially single people out or even ostracize them. Students won’t come here if they are worried they won’t fit in, because they might not be like- minded or think like ev- eryone else, daring to be different, religiously or politically. We would not Ask'President P. President Pribbenow One of our fine sociol- ogy students has written to ask why our distinguished sociology department does not have new office space in the planned Center for Science, Business and Re- ligion. I imagine the same question could be asked ofthe English, history and philosophy departments — and several others. The simple answer is that we needed to make choices about how to de- ploy a limited amount of space, and we made those decisions based on a num- ber of factors. Our first priority was to provide world-class fa- cilities for our laboratory- based science programs. This meant that biology, chemistry and physics were in the new building. We then also considered the growing links between psychology and biology and agreed that psychology needed to share space in the new facility as well. Mathematics has a special, central relationship to all science disciplines, and close collaboration between mathematics and computer science led us to integrate both of these departments as a shared “neighborhood” in the building plans. Under- graduate research is also an important emphasis of science education at Augsburg. Science fac- ulty requested that this be reflected in the building plans, creating a dedicated area for undergraduate research and the URGO/ McNair program staff on the third level of the new center near the Biology laboratories. Note that mathematics, URGO & McNair are located in the current science building that will be torn down. Finally we explored the question we had heard many times from both within the Augsburg com— munity and from those outside of Augsburg who knew us well, and that was “What is it about an Augsburg education that is distinctive?” Our answer to this question is focused on the distinctiveness of a liberal arts education for all of our students, no matter their majors. Given that the sciences are the primary focus of the new building, we then examined sev- eral options for including academic programs in the building that would point to how a liberal arts edu- cation prepares students for careers in science and technology-related fields. In the end. we believe that the inclusion of the business and religion de- partments means that the building both symbolizes the abiding values of the liberal arts 7 in this case. the exploration of the in- tersections of faith. com- merce and science/tech- nology ~ and also makes possible the very real and concrete ways in which day-to-day conversations between students and fac- ulty in those disciplines will further enhance our academic programs for all students. We firmly believe that the new Center for Science, Business and Religion will powerfully serve all Augsburg students — both in its casual study spaces and classrooms and in the sorts of important courses, conversations and academic programs it will spawn and support. All ofthat said, I don‘t deny the fact that all of our academic programs deserve classroom, oflice and meeting space that is high-quality. We have gone a long distance to improv- ing classroom space all over campus by adding new classrooms in Ken- nedy and Oren as well as by upgrading technol- ogy and furniture in many other classrooms. We will continue to make these important investments. One of the implica— tions of the new building will be a significant review of all of our academic- related spaces on campus and decisions about how to make improvements over time that help bring all of our academic space to a higher level ofquality and usefulness. For example. the fact that the business and religion departments will leave Memorial Hall and that the current science building will be torn down means that we will have space available for refur- bishing and redeployment of other academic depart— ments. Thanks for your good question. Remember [0 send your questions for President Pribbenow to er'ho@augs- burgedu. want them to feel alienated before they even show up for a tour of the college. If we wish to be intentionally diverse. as our mission states, we should support that with the whole soul of the college, embrace it, and advertise accordingly. We should be proud in our diversity, our di- versity in ethnicity, religion, life, and even politics. I suggest encouraging Augsburg of- ficials to look at what they are selling to their students, faculty, and potential students, and to come to one conclusion, a conclusion that does not contradict itself; but rather, one that promotes diversity, and not potential or actual alienation. Show less
Page 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota From disabilities to possibilities Auax STOIAKEN Stafl Writer This October, Augsburg is recognizing and celebrating stu- dents with disabilities as part of Disability Awareness Month. In the words of Rebecca Lund, Disability Awareness Month al- lows us to, ... Show morePage 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota From disabilities to possibilities Auax STOIAKEN Stafl Writer This October, Augsburg is recognizing and celebrating stu- dents with disabilities as part of Disability Awareness Month. In the words of Rebecca Lund, Disability Awareness Month al- lows us to, “Celebrate our talents and skills, while respecting the challenges we have." According to Accommoda- tions Specialist Rebecca Lund, disability awareness first started for employment purposes to assist and change the way employers look at their hiring practices. “It’s about putting the person first. and sending an encouraging message to employers to embrace diversity and talent" Lund said. In honor of Disability Aware— ness Month, there will be many events around campus for students and faculty to attend. On Oct. 8 the CCHP (Center for Counseling and Health Promotion). offered free anxiety and depression screenings in the CCHP building. There will be information tables in the Christensen Center lobby for SPIKE (Students Pro- moting Intelligence, Knowledge, and Equality), the CLASS ofi‘ice (Center for Learning and Adap- tive Student Services), and Access Center at some point during the month as well. In addition to that, the Center for Teaching will be hosting information sessions for faculty on Oct. 22 from 11 a.m.-l pm. In the Sateren Auditorium on Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 3:30 pm. the Mixed Blood Theater will be presenting their play “Theory of Mind,” focused on people with dis- abilities. At the end of the month the Groves Lab will be hosting an open house to view different types of assistive technologies and services provided. The date for this event is Oct. 21 from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Programs that Augsburg has to offer—such as the CLASS Program—and Access Center for students with physical disabilities, as Lund put it, “Provides innova- tive and effective approaches to universal design in the classroom.” For more information on these programs you can contact the CLASS office at CLASS@ augsburgcdu, or check out their moodle site. To learn more about the Access Center go to www. augsburg.edu/accesscenter. rida , October 9, 2009 I Sabo panel highlights education problems JESSICA Spmswrcx Contributor Last Friday, the Sabo Center for Citizen- ship and Learning presented “A Mandate to Teach and a Call to Educate: Views from the Schoolhouse.” ' President Pribbenow welcomed the speakers and audience followed by recog- nizing Milken Family Foundation Award Winners Jacki Brickman, Tracey Cross, Margaret Knutson, and Kelly Woods. Garry Hesser, Sabo Professor of Citi- zenship and Learning, then introduced the members of the panel discussion. Former Congressperson Martin Sabo facilitated the lively conversation, first handing the microphone to Lynn Nordgren, President of the Minneapolis Federation of Teachers. After introducing herself she said, “There is nothing better we can be talking about tonight than our children.” The panelists took turns answering various questions around the subject of public education. Steve DeLapp, Principal of Barton Open School, offered a sobering picture: “Where we are today in education is a pretty sorry state. We’ve lost our way in terms of politicians who decide our policy. We’ve forgotten why we educate.” David Jennings, Superintendent of East Carver Public Schools spoke in a similar tone. When asked about No Child Left Behind, Jennings said, “The federal govem- ment ought to get out of the education busi- ness. If they want to do something about the poor kids, then they need to do something about housing and unemployment. Then we won’t need them in the schoolhouse.” Nordgren offered a new dimension to teaching. She repeated throughout the dis- cussion, “We need to teach from the inside out. Every child comes with their own issues and background. A one-size—fits-all approach by the federal government just doesn’t work.” When asked about the United States’ di- minishing role as world leader in education, Nordgren responded, “We need to look at how our countries are progressing in educa- tion and follow suit. In my career I’ve taught classes from fourteen students to forty-four students. I spent my whole life trying to be the heroic teacher. It’s not possible. ” Sabo then opened the floor for students and community members to ask questions. Questions ranged from topics of tenure to public displays of achievement. Overall, the panel agreed that asking these questions is imperative to reforming our education sys- tem. Jennings warned, “It’s good to discuss it, but meanwhile the problem goes on.” So let us identify problems with our education system: racial and geographic achievement gaps, teaching for the test, and a misplaced priority for our national budgets. But we can’t stop there. The discourse must transform to into a vibrancy of plausible solutions. Who will be willing to fight for a sensible and radical reform? E—mail — echo@augsburg.edu Phone — (612) 330-1102 of the students. subject to revision. W- Augsburg College Echo Fall 2009 Staff Molly Ehling Sergio Monterrubio Becki lverson Molly Ehling A8: i MW Malena Thoson Becki Iverson F t r ' or Andrea Sanow Ted Conover Egg/s Mith Ehgrg Editor Dave Madsen Kendra Christiansen 'ni lEdi o ' ls i r Advertising Manager Roger Huelsniu Sarah Gillund .m.r§_5 r Editor 13% Ed Shehwen Boyd Koehler 731 let Avenue S, 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 ~ by the students of Augsburg College. Opinions expressed in the Echo are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the supporting staff, administration, faculty, alumni/ire or the remainder The Echo does not necessarily promote the products or services it advertises. Advertisements can be placed in the Echo by contacting the advertising manager. Submissions 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 infomtation. 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 PrirndbyPrinterpMidwestonrecyeledpoper. Student payroll changes LINDA VLIEGER Payroll/HRIS Coordinator There are some upcom- ing changes being made to the payrolls processed for student workers at Augsburg College. Beginning December 27, 2009, students will begin uti- lizing web time entry soflware, Kronos. With Kronos, student employees will complete on- line timecards. We estimate that just with the elimination of the student paper timesheets, we will save tremendously on the amount of paper we go through every month. There are many other advantages of utilizing web time entry: 1. Student employees will complete timecards and submit them on-line to their supervisor for approval. 2. The web time entry allows students to allocate hours to multiple departments. Super- visors will be able to view and approve only the hours the student employees work in their department. 3. Once supervisors approve the timecards, they are ready to be uploaded into the payroll software for processing. There will no longer be necessary to track down missing timesheets or signatures for timesheets. 4. There will be on-line email reminders when timecards are due. There are also on-line no- tifications if there is a change made to a student employee’s timecard. 5. The timecards are totaled by the computer. Any appro- priate special pay, such as shifi differential, overtime, etc., is calculated by the software. This eliminates the time spent by students and supervisors in manually calculating timecards. There are many other features, but these are the highlights of the new software we will begin using. Student employees are encouraged to watch A-Mail as well as their Email for news on this implementation and training sessions on how to use this new software. At the same time HR imple- ments this new web time entry software, Augsburg College will be changing the frequency of paydays for students. The paper timesheets for December hours worked will include hours from December 1 through December 26. These timesheets will be processed in a special payroll. The date of this payroll will be published at a later date. Beginning in January, 2010, all student employees will be paid on a biweekly pay fre— quency. The first pay period will begin December 27, 2009, and end on January 9, 2010. The first payday will be January 15, 2010. The timing of the paydays is one of the most important reasons for the change. In past years, students have been paid on the 15th of the month for hours worked the month before. This was quite a lag time that needed to be addressed. Changing to a biweekly pay schedule will decrease this lag time tremen- dously. And, lastly, who wouldn’t want to receive part of their pay two weeks earlier than they used to each month? Having more frequent pay periods is more attractive when trying to recruit good talent to join Augsburg’s campus. It will be much easier for some of our student employees to meet their personal budgets on a biweekly pay schedule than it has been to make their money stretch from one monthly paycheck to the next. Earlier this summer, we implemented direct deposit for student employees. This elimi- nates students from needing to make a trip to the bank with their check on payday. This change, along with the changes we are making the end of December, are steps Augsburg is taking to simplify the payroll process for both employees and the college. We understand that changes such as this bring about many questions. We will be utilizing A-Mail and Email to com- municate the processes and information during the next three months to alleviate some of the anxiety and confusion that normally accompanies a change of this magnitude. Please join us in welcom- ing these changes as we make strides in contributing to a more green and efficient workplace. '2" lvrmn’n‘fl'w-ea': wear-av m”--‘" «rm—m.w_~_.n~. Show less
Grizzly Bear page 7 The ollege’s Student—Produced Newspaper Zombies, page 4 Friday, October 9, 2009 Homecoming 2009: A blast for all StafWriter Last week, Augsburg College was soaked in a healthy mixture of maroon, gray, and white, as it celebrated Homecoming: the 2009 Auggie Adventure. With huge... Show moreGrizzly Bear page 7 The ollege’s Student—Produced Newspaper Zombies, page 4 Friday, October 9, 2009 Homecoming 2009: A blast for all StafWriter Last week, Augsburg College was soaked in a healthy mixture of maroon, gray, and white, as it celebrated Homecoming: the 2009 Auggie Adventure. With huge helium balloons, crepe paper steamers, and marching band mu- sic, alumni, faculty, staff, families, and students joined in honoring the rich history and accomplishments of the college. This year, Auggies honored the latest Hall of Fame inductees, reunited the Class of 1959, and presented awards for the First Decade, the Spirit of Augs— burg and Distinguished Alumni. “Whamline” fans also cheered on the football team, picnicked in park, and partied in the street, all to the tune of the “Auggie’s, What! Auggie’s, What!” On Thursday night at the Hall of Fame Banquet, Bob Ar- vold ’82——Wrestling, Joel Engel ’87—Basketball, Matt Farley ’88—Baseball, Dallas Miller ’88—Hockey, Ruth Olson ’60— Basketball, Sonja Lee Payne’9 1— Tennis, Softball, Drew Privette ’89—Football, Dan Roff ’82—— Football, and Stefanie Lodermeier Strusz ’98—Basketball all joined an esteemed assembly of athletes. These nine participants provided exemplary leadership and sports- manship for their respective teams. The Hall of Fame Banquet sig- naled a week of dedication and devotion to the name stitched on Minneapolis, Minnesota the front of each Augsburg jersey. Friday began with the 50-year Re— union Breakfast, which celebrated the Class of 1959. Memories, dreams, and vocations piqued at the Homecoming Convocation. Brenda Talarico ’99 received the First Decade Award for her continued work in the Physicians Assistants program. The Spirit of Augsburg Award was presented, with an introduction by former Augsburg President Bill Frame, to James E. Haglund for his role as Regent Emeritus. The Distin- guished Alumni Awards were pre- sented to Tove Dahl ‘84 and Curt Rice ’84, Phebe Hanson ’50, Joyce Pfafi ’65, and Richard Throud ‘54. Each speech by the award winners pointed Augsburg stu- Depression relief for Auggies could be just a click away Cr-rmsrma COLLrNs Communications Associate It may be the easiest multiple choice question of one’s college career, and it could also be the most important. If you haven’t been feeling like yourself lately, a simple online screening can help you figure out what is wrong. That’s why Augs- burg is offering free, 24/7 online mental health screenings for a range of common emotional con- ditions that ofien go undiagnosed and misunderstood. Mental illnesses are just that—illnesses. They are not derived from choice or character flaws. Plus, they are more com- mon among college students than one may think. Without treatment, however, individuals with depres- sion or anxiety aren’t able to “pull it together” and get over how they are feeling. Mental illnesses are highly treatable, especially if detected and diagnosed early. To access anonymous online screening for depression, bipo- lar disorder, generalized anxi- ety disorder and posttraumatie stress disorder, visit www.men- talhealthscreening.org/screening/ AUGSBURG from the comfort and privacy of your own room, or anywhere at all. Once you take an online screening, you will receive immediate feedback about your score as well as referral informa- tion about campus resources if warranted. According to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, nearly two thirds of those suffer- ing from depression do not seek help, but a recent study from the University of Connecticut Health Center found that more than half of last year’s National Depression Screening Day online participants sought treatment in the three months following their initial screening. Dr. Robert Aseltine, Ph.D., who conducted the NDSD study, said, “These data provide compel- ling evidence regarding the ability of web-based screening programs to provide individuals in the com- munity with referral resources that lead them into treatment." As part of the online screening program, participants will answer a series of questions about their moods. Questions may include: - Have you lost pleasure in things you used to enjoy? ° Do you have trouble sleeping or eating? - Does your mood fluctuate be- tween overly "high” to sad and hopeless? - Are you keyed up and anxious all the time? - Are you having nightmares about something that happened in the past? ' Do you suffer from unexplained aches and pains? The online screening is of- fered as part of Screening for Mental Health, lnc.’s National De- pression Screening Day (NDSD), held in October as part of Mental Illness Awareness Week. Congressman Keith Ellison comes to campus to explain health care reform dents to a vocational challenge. “Find what you are interested in and follow it,” Distinguished Alumnus, Curt Rice noted. “I think of Augsburg as the place I became an adult and was given an opportunity to follow my dreams,” Rice continued. Augsburg was also the place where Rice met his wife, Tove Dahl. This pair of award winners works in Norway at the University of Tromso, where Dahl sits on the board of Norway‘s Centre for Peace Studies and teaches psychology. Her husband, Curt, is the director of the Center for Advanced study in Theoretical Linguistics at Tromso. James E. Haglund was also presented with the Spirit of Augs- burg award and commented on the Volume CXV, Issue 3 “three W’s: work, wisdom. and wealth.” His work and wealth provided the first major donation for the Kennedy Center. “It’s humbling, as you reflect on how you played a very small part in such a great tradition. l didn’t think that i would be able to do any ofthe “three W‘s“ when I first came to Augsburg. But we are our own worst critic...At the end of the day, it‘s what you have done that counts,“ Haglund said. Saturday‘s festivities made Auggies salivate. as a cloud of maroon. gray, and white swamied Murphy Park for fair food and camival-style games. See HOMECOMING, page 4 Augsburg celebrates Coming Out Week SARA KLEMP Stafi Writer Augsburg celebrated Nation- al Coming Out Week by hosting various events promoting aware- ness and discussion about issues surrounding sexuality. These events were hosted by Augsburg‘s lesbian, gay. bisexual, [transgen- der, questioning. intersex, and asexual students: the events were hosted with LGBTQIA services. an organization that focuses on supporting and understanding gender and sexuality issues as well as nurturing a campus and community that honors all identi- ties. C oming Out Week is a nation- ally recognized week when open discussion about these issues is encouraged across the nation. The week‘s events began with “Soup, Gender and Sexuality,” a luncheon on Tuesday afternoon where at- tendees discussed homosexuality and spirituality. The day contin- ued into the evening with “Being an LGBTQlAAlly." At this event, guests were able to learn more about the community and how to be supportive of the LGBTQIA Photo taken by Kendra Christiansen community. On Wednesday, performing artist D'Lo gave a free show in Sateren Auditorium. He discussed his experiences of coming out. Los Angeles-based D'Lo is a mu- sic producer, comedian. political theater artist, writer, and director whose work focuses on issues surrounding the LGBTQlA corn- munity. See OUT, page 4 MELISSA MONSON Contributor Professor Aoki’s Political Science class and Professor Dalglish’s Broadcast and Online Journalism class huddled together Monday, Oct. 5 in Augsburg‘s Century Room. Congressman Keith Ellison, D-MN, came to visit and spoke in-depth about the health care debate. Ellison is currently serving his second term as Minnesota’s fifih district representa- tive. Ellison is the first Muslim congressman in Minnesota. He is also the first African- Ameriean from Minnesota in the U.S. House. Ellison is a strong supporter of the-pub- lic option in health care. The public option rs government-run health care programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Ellison said that currently the public option is “wet plaster,” meaning that the general shape has been de- fined, but is still malleable. He believes that there is no strong reason against the public option, other than other peoples ’ ideologies. Ellison drew a three—legged, stool on the Century Room’s whiteboard. This three- legged stool represented the tri-fold nature of the public option’s effectiveness. The first leg is to provide better coverage for those insured. He said this includes no watered- down coverage, not being dropped for a pre-existing condition and equal premiums for men and women. Currently, premiums are not gender equal because women pay more for health insrnance. The second leg is the public option: a government-um health care system. Ellison re—iterated that Medicare is a govemment— run program. Each year there is a survey done by Medicare users and 96 percent like Medicare. So he doesn’t understand the opposition to the public option, because Medicare is a public option and 96 percent of users like it. The third leg is an online insurance ex— change. Ellison said, “It’s like a Cub Foods that offers insurance.” Ellison also addressed some Americans’ worry that the public option would increase taxes. The proposed idea is not to increase the federal deficit, so taxes would have to be raised. He proposed that common people would not be responsible for the majority of revenue needed. Most taxes would come from places like medical device companies. There would also be taxes for those indi- viduals who annually gross $350,000 or more. He also suggested that people can't get something without giving something in return; the public option is a public service from the government. The roads one drives, the stoplights which regulate traffic, and the police ofiicers that ensure safe roads are all govemment-run public services. “I do not want to pay higher taxes more than anyone else, I just want a well-organized society." Ellison said. Ellison stated that we live in a “free marketplace of ideas,” as derived from Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes. The public option is just one of those ideas. He added that people should offer an altemative idea to the public option, if they oppose it, rather than just continually shooting it down. Show less
Page 8 Minneapolis, Minnesota THE BACK PAGE Farmer’s Market at Augsburg West Bank Farmer’s Market has been in existence for four years at the Brian Coyle Community Center. It expanded this past summer as a way to get better produce to a larger population. “This isn’t the kind of food you can get... Show morePage 8 Minneapolis, Minnesota THE BACK PAGE Farmer’s Market at Augsburg West Bank Farmer’s Market has been in existence for four years at the Brian Coyle Community Center. It expanded this past summer as a way to get better produce to a larger population. “This isn’t the kind of food you can get at a grocery story,” he said. “It has a story behind it.” That story is one of hard work. The farmers that sell the food at these markets have worked hard and are supporting their families in a way that is not only respectable, but environ- mentally sensible. “The fanners keep coming back,” Noy said. “They don’t get the credit they deserve for the hard work that they do.” Shopping at the Farmer’s Market not only helps to support farmer’s and their families, it also helps in alleviating our environmental foot print. Food that is raised on local farms and sold locally not only travels less but also helps to reduce the environmental cost of food. So, as the summer ends, and the weather gets colder, take some time to appreciate the West Bank Farmer’s Market at Augsburg. ...grasshoppers excluded. TED Conoven Copy-Editor Upon exiting a class last week, I walked past a group of students who made me supremely jealous. They were hula hooping, smoking cigarettes, and listening to music while laughing and socializing. Their carefree grins and dance- like moves with the giant hoops made me wish I hadn’t been stuck in a stuffy classroom for the last hour and a half; they were commenting on the beautiful day and that they loved to be outside to enjoy it. How could these students be so care- free while I’m sure that they have just as many obligations, due—dates, essays, tests, HR forms, and readings as I do? It’s all in the hoop, baby. I’m sure that everyone on campus has no- ticed by now that there is a hooping craze going on around Augsburg campus! This isn’t your gym teacher’s hula hooping, either. These new hoops are much wider and thicker than the hula- hoops of the past. And hooping isn’t defined by just swinging it around one’s waste anymore. It’s almost evolved into an action sport like skate- boarding, where one can do a large myriad of tricks like swinging it around arms, legs, one’s neck, or swinging more than one hoop at a time. Hooping has come into popularity at sum- mer music and art festivals like Bella Madre, 10,000 Lakes Festival, and Harvest Festival (to name some festivals in Minnesota). The hooping seen at these festivals can be very impressive and creative. Watching people hoop with the music can be an attraction itself for festival-goers who aren’t coordinated enough to keep a giant hoop swinging around an extremity for prolonged periods of time. Hooping, as well as most ac- tivities and behavior at these festivals, can be associated with the counter-culture of hippy-ish festival—goers (just think modern Deadhead). Unfortunately, with the label of festival-goer comes an implication of drug use, which includes the hoopers at these festivals into this category ANDREA SANOW Features Editor When I was a small child, I hated vegetables because I had to pick them with my grandmother. The worst part of my day was heading out to the garden knowing that in mere seconds I would be glommed on by thousands of grasshoppers. Now, though, I miss those fresh- picked and well raised vegetables. I long for the sweet taste of fresh zuc- chini or a delicious red (or are they purple!’?) onion. So, when the waxy produce of Cub Foods fails me, I head to the West Bank Farmer‘s Market at Augsburg College. The Market, held on Tuesdays from 2-5 pm. outside of the Foss Atrium. started this summer and has been. in the opinion of faculty, stafi’ and students, a success. Not only can patrons purchase atTordable and fresh vegetables. they can also engage in a new community. Augsburg staff member and Di- rector ofthe Campus Kitchen Project. Brian Noy, who had a large part in bringing the market to Augsburg. be- lieves that connecting through food is one ofthe easiest ways to get to know your neighbor. “When people shop at the Farm- er's Market, it is a direct way to see 1. how the food is produced,“ Noy said. “Not only that, but they can ask the farmer‘s questions about how the food 2- was raised and how to prepare it...it is a friendly transmission of food and culinary art." Noy went onto explain that the If you are interested in helping with the Farmer '3 Market you can do one of two things: Shop there! Get some cash and head out to meet the farmers and purchase some produce. Help Market! Hang some signs, perform some music, sell some of your own art. For more information, contact Brian Noy. Noy@augsburg.edu llulo style But never fear, hula-hoopers at Augsburg aren’t doing illicit drugs in-between classes while they hoop. In fact, it seems that the igno- rance of this negative label is one of the main ideas benefitting the group of hula-hoopers seen around campus. For, of course, anyone can hoop. One can see all types of people hooping around campus: hipsters, hippies, bookwonns, jocks, and yes, even Res-Life staff. Hooping is for everybody it seems, not just for those who hoop while they hallucinate Bugs Bunny hoop- ing along side them. This idea that anyone can be accepted into the group of hoopers seems to fit into Augsburg ’5 message of open-mindedness and diversity. So, instead of being a group of drug addicts who are a negative example of students at Augsburg, the hoopers are a shining example of inclusiveness and smart funkiness mirrored by Augsburg students. They are a group to be admired and are, as Hula Hoop Club founder Courtney Wiley would say, “soooper bomb, dood!” One might think that hooping is only one of the fads that come and go throughout the year. But observing hoopers and by reading the Facebook page about the group, it is apparent that hooping will have more staying power than Giga Pets, yo-yo’s, Pokemon cards or even fixed gear bikes. From talking to people who hoop and visiting hooping websites and Facebook groups, one can glean that hooping isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way of life. On the Facebook group page of Augsburg hoopers many quotes lead one to the assumption that hooping is a way of life. The mantra adopted by the Hula Hoop Club reads as follows, “We have fallen in love with the Hula. This is the Hula sanctuary. We all can share together, the magic, that is hula.” V Hula is a way to relax, to exercise, and to find one’s center; or, as the page says, “Hula is the path to enlightenment.” To be honest, from seeing the relaxed faces of hoopers around cam— pus, I’m inclined to believe that it is. HOROSCOPES ).E.R.K. (JAMIE KRUMENAUER, EMILY PETERSON, RESHA ALBRECHT, KELLY DAUGHERTY) Contributors A— LIST If your birthday is this week: Congratulations, you are another year older! At this rate, MALENATHOSON you will be living proof that dinosaurs once roamed the earth in no time. AéE Editor Aries (Mar. 21 — Apr. 19): This week, due to your competitive nature, you Theater will find yourself battling for intergalactic peace against the once innocent “MuchAdo About Nothing” republic. Or maybe you’ll just win a thumb war. Theater in the Round . . I Through Oct. 4, 8:00PM (Sunday 2:00PM) fl Taurus (Apr. 20 — May 20): You will find yourself in between a rock in a hard 245 CedarAve, Minneapolis 612-333~3010 Tickets: $10 with student ID place this week. Our advice is. we have no advice. Next, please! *4, Gemini (May 21 —~ Jun. 21): You continue to struggle with restlessness, and g. L j . a thirst you cannot quench. Get lost. You may just find yourself. Photo Exhibit _ Cancer (Jun. 22 — Jul. 22): Cancers are notoriously moody. In the immortal “Legacy of an Ecocide” Weekdays: 8:00AM«8:00PM Sat: Neon- 6PM, Sun: SAM-6PM Ends October 28 Catherine G. Murphy Gallery St. Catherine University words of Relient K, “Let’s get emotional girls to all wear mood rings. So we’ll be tipped off, to when they are ticked off.” Leo (Jul. 23 — Aug. 22): A secret admirer will soon send you a sign of af- fection. Beware the evil, lurking in the dark. Or that creeper who sits behind was you in class. = ' 20045Randolph'Au, SLPaul» 651-690-6644 ' Virgo (Aug. 23 — Sep. 22): One who has love has life. Well, since you don’t Admission: Free have that going for you... you can always rely on your charming personality. www.s&ate.edu/gallery Libra (Sep. 23 — Oct. 23): Your present plans are going to succeed. As for Film v v your future plans... those are definitely questionable. Filrn Retrospective: Coen Brothers Walker Art Center Scorpio (Oct. 24 — Nov. 21): Your focus will be sidetracked by some brouhaha. “0 Brother, WhereArt 'I‘hou?” Fear not, the shining light is upon you. Saturday, Oct. 3, 7:30PM “No Country for Old Men” Sagittarius (Nov. 22 — Dec. 21): Don’t get too crazy this weekend, or you may Friday, Oct. 3, 9:45PM turn into a talking llama and be renamed Kuzco. Or not. Too soon, too soon? l750HennepinAve, Minneapolis, : Tickets: 58 (56 Walker members) Capricorn (Dec. 22 — Jan. 19): A golden egg of opportunity will fall into your lap this week. Hopefully the egg does not contain a baby eagle... 7 Aquarius (Jan. 20 — Feb. 18.): Stay away from the opposite sex this week. Yeah, right!!! Pisces (Feb. 19 — Mar. 20): Do you know the muffin man? The muffin man? 7 _ i x 5 _ r , THE MUFFIN MAN!!! Well, he may or may not steal your favorite pair of , i 1 r ,3. r __ a : , socks. Just saying... beware. . ' ' . Music _ West Bank Bash RomaDiLuna,BillGeezyandtheNewDeal, Peter Ostroushko, Daddy Squeeze and Mud- bug Zydeco 7 Eagle’s Club 2507 E. 25th St, Minneapolis Sunday, Oct. 11,2009, 7:30PM7 $15 with student ID V For tickets call or visit: West Bank School of Music 1813 S 6th St, 612-333-6651 ,www.westbankmnsic.org 2005 Augsburg Alum to perform with Paragraphs (feat. Joron Willz) @ Augsburg Homecoming Block Party 7 “Paragraphs features Augsburg 2005 alum Dan Vogel on drums, Chris Policy on guitar, and Brigitte Musaack on keyboards and a plastic trutlewithawashboardtmnmy. Joron j wmz will be performing his spam word, original lyrics and rhymes along with the band’s ambient, instrumental rock nude. Wearyourdancingshoesandgetreadyto enjoy a solid set of fun for everyone.” -Dan Vogel Paragraphs Featuring JoronWillz Between Sverdrop Hall and Lindell Library Intersection onIstAve & 7th St wwyo-mloun‘ymr-s," more, :- mammary/um. .mfiatp’, 7‘ . Show less
Friday, October 2, 2009 Brz'rsv Coums Staan'ter . On Wednesday, Sept. 23 I went to see five poets at The Lofl Literary Center. Red Dragonfly Press, a small independent print- ing press located in Northfield, Minnesota, publishes all five of the poets: Jim Johnson, Scott King, Joe Paddock, Edith... Show moreFriday, October 2, 2009 Brz'rsv Coums Staan'ter . On Wednesday, Sept. 23 I went to see five poets at The Lofl Literary Center. Red Dragonfly Press, a small independent print- ing press located in Northfield, Minnesota, publishes all five of the poets: Jim Johnson, Scott King, Joe Paddock, Edith Rylander, and Joyce Sutphen. Regrettably, I missed Johnson’s reading. Though I saw four poets, Edith Rylander and Scott King especially stood out to me. King is the founder of Red Dragonfly Press. He came off as a very humble man who appreciates hand-made things and genuine human connection. I was immedi- atelyendearedtohim,aslamto most people who have honorable, but possibly naive ideals. How- ever, this man makes his living (somehow) by printing and selling chapbooks of poetry, so maybe I’m the naive one. King didn’t read any of his own poetry; he was present only to introduce his poets. His intro- duction was a short excerpt from Thoreau’s Walden, saying with it “Screw you, huge book corpora- tions,” and urging the audience to open themselves up to different book experiences. His poets also seemedtoexpress the same quaint/ nostalgic feel in their work. Joyce Sutphen took us back to the farm where she grew up with poems about tractors and combines, chores and Jiffy cake recipes. Her language was plain and fitting for farm life, but still efl‘ective for evoking large beau- tifirl images. Her reading of her work, however, fell flat and didn’t embody the feelings that birthed her poems. Joe Paddock read a collection of environmental poems. While I didn’t find most too intriguing, (possibly due to his very low, mumbling reading voice), I did find myself enjoying a particular poem, “Mass Extinction,” about the last of a particular tropical bird calling to a mate that didn’t exist. Edith Rylander’s poetry, in contrast, seemed to be larger, more powerful than her. Her read- ing evoked such an emotional response that she earned applause (typically reserved for the end of the reading) with her first poem. She read with a confidence, or perhaps a gravity, that the other poets that night didn’t have. She Native pride ION PETERSON Contributor “Diverse” and “Nomadic” might be two words used to de- scribe American Indian Studies Professor Elise Marubbio’s up- bringing. Bom in Kentucky, her father’s career in medicine allowed her to experience life in places like India, New Guinea, and New York Her education and profes- sional career has brought her ev- erywhere from Ohio to Italy. Mth such a rich cultural background, not to mention a Ph.D in Cultural Studies and extensive experience in areas like American Indian Studies, Women’s Studies, Art, and Film. Growing up, Marubbio was always fascinated by Native Amer- ican Stories she heard from family and friends, but it wasn’t until later in her life that she transformed her past-time into a career. After pursuing an undergradu- ate degree in photography, Marub- bio decided she wanted to pursue something different out of sheer boredom. “I was reading a novel a day,” she said jovially. Following an intense spiritual experience, Marubbio soon found herself moving from Cleveland to Tucson, Arizona to study Ameri- can Indian Studies at the Uni- versity of Arizona. She pursued a Masters in American Indian Studies and later her PhD. The University of Arizona has one of the oldest American Indian Studies programs in the country. As a discipline, American Indian Studies began in the 19705. Many major universities have programs, majors or at least minors inAmeri- can Indian Studies. What makes Augsburg so unique is that it is one of the few small liberal arts colleges with its own American Indian Studies department and a program offering both a major and a minor. Marubbio has enjoyed her time teaching at Augsburg and liv- ing in Minneapolis, a place where she spent some of her formative years. “Augsburg gives me the opportunity to explore for myself,” something she has done through teaching a variety of courses. One of Marubbio ’5 main inter- Minneapolis, Minnesota took her crafi seriously. Rhylander's poems, like Sutphen’s, were incredibly nos- talgic, taking the audience on a trip out west where she grew up. She used her childhood house to recollect memories of growing up. My favorite was the image of her mother and father trying to learn the two-step on their kitchen’s 1i- noleum floor out of a book. While I. her intensity slightly intimidated me, Rhylander brought the reading beyond what I’ve come to expect from poetry readings; it was a true performance. On the way out of the reading, Scott King encouraged everyone to take a keepsake. Red Dragonfly Press printed a single poem by Ry- lander, “Scatter These Bones,” on high quality cotton paper just for the reading. It’s the sincerity ac- companying Red Dragonfly Press that draws'me to them and earns my respect. I would go see another reading featuring any one of the Red Dragonfly poets, mumbling or not. For more information about The Loft, visit www.loft.org For more information about Red Dragonfly Press, visit www.red- dragonflypress. org ests is the representation of native women in film and she takes great interest in indigenous filmmakers. In addition to her class entitled “Native American Women in Film”, Marubbio has also pio- neered a Native American Film Series at Augsburg in recent years. Last Spring the film program brought “In Whose Honor?”, a film examining the misuse of Native American mascots in sports. Marubbio has also enjoyed her ability to travel and attend difl‘erent seminars saying, “[Augs- burg] keeps me global.” Marubbio also likes the way that Augsburg incorporates the community into experiential learning, a process that in her opinion “expands typi- cal notions of education.” Marubbio has enjoyed her own taste of the liberal arts model through Augsburg allowing her to do so many different things. She believes that in order for someone to be effective in education they must be both passionate and will- ing to learn their subject in new ways, taking different angles and constantly refining their outlook. Page 7 VARIETY Red Dragonfly ess pets at the loft Million Dollar Museum, Worth Visiting? MOLLY BUDKE Columnist The Bedlam Theatre’s “Million Dollar Museum,” writ- ten by Josef Evans and Directed by Maren Ward, delivers a play- ful look at the world as we see it; our cultural curiosities and myths as shown through the eyes of one fearful woman, her makeshifi family and the mu- seum they run (which has yet to greet a visitor in it’s 30 some years of existence). The script is insightful, if unpolished, and the set (a collection of dioramas coordinated by Alina Brenna- man) is as kitschy as any tourist trap you’ve been to. It is clear Ward has encouraged a healthy exploration of this playground by the actors, which helps the audience to feel the real mo- ments of weight when they come. One of the Bedlam The- atre’s strongest traits, I think, is its ability to call together a group of people and ask that formed community to play. Through playfulness, their shows can ask heavy ques- tions, questions audiences might otherwise avoid. This is, I think, one of the best ways to create theatre (perhaps the only way to create real, experienceable theatre) but it poses a problem as well. When even one or two members of the team fail to play, the whole thing feels off. It is an unfortunate problem, one that I wish I could set aside in order to let “Million Dollar Museum”’s successes stand alone, but it is a problem that must be faced. Katie Kaufinann, who plays the mother of this secluded and surreal family, spends all of her stage time watching herself. She is not in the action, not listening to the actors on stage with her, but focused instead on her own performance to a degree that is overwhelming and distracting. On some level, this trait is fitting of the character, who has diffi— culty doing right by her children because of her selfishness, but it plays consistently through the moments in which we should feel genuine sympathy for this mother confused, making a connection to the character even more difficult for us that in seems to be for her. If Kaufmann shows us how not to play with perfor- mance, Kimberly Richardson, Jon Cole, George McConnell and Johann Hauser-Ulrich sing. jitter, sulk and swagger their way to the other end of the playful spectrum. Richards and Cole play the bizarre band‘s brother and sister with fantastic joy, innocence and just enough awkwardness for us to believe they’ve never traveled outside the museum. McConnell plays the bitter and becoming bit- terer worker within the museum. though why he hasn’t left isn’t entirely clear. Hauser-Ulrich mixes classic American cowboy with cocky poet to portray a museum visitor (the first!) who, understandably, fixates the other characters. The actors, good and bad, collect to give us a new under- standing of our country and culture. Moments in the script seem forced and feeble, while others are too big too connect to, but overall Evans gives in- teresting insights that are worth an audience’s examination. It is unfortunate that a number of these insights are buried by inconsistent performances. So should you go? If you’re as easily distracted by one or two bad performances as I am: no. If you want to support a wonderful ultra-local theatre and some very real local talent; if you want to see what fantastic playfulness on stage looks like: yes. Kimberly Richards is one of Minneapolis’ finest young performers, Maren Ward one of our most insightful direc- tors and the Bedlam one of our most precious resources. So take each aspect for what it is, go, enjoy yourself, or don’t and go see their next show, because I promise you it will be worth discussing. Plays through this weekend, Thu. - Sun. 7:30 performances $12-15 “Turn, Turn, Turn!”: Robert McGuinn in concert time, Hem... about discover- FRED Tonvnr British popular music, and W the jangly, melodic sound of McGuinn’s Rickenbacker Although he never be- 12-string electric guitar came the household name had been cemented in Rock Cannon. some his peers did (most notably Bob Dylan), Roger McGuinn and the band he co-founded and lead, The Byrds, proved to be almost as important. Their first hit single, “Mr. Tambourine Man” (a Dylan song) was the first time Folk and Rock music had been blended so successfully, and the new sound caught on in- stantly. By the end of the 1960s, Folk Rock was the sound of American and Even so, I am not a nostalgic person. It’s fair to say that most of the pre- 19705 rockers still touring are shadows of their for- mer selves, and when (my good fi'iend and roommate) Marty Lestock told me he was going to see the lead singer for The Byrds at the Cedar Cultural Center on Sept. 9, I wasn’t especially interested. Much to my surprise, Marty arrived home glow- ing. He had nothing but good things to say about McGuinn’s set. My assump- tion was wrong; and, since I made what is usually a pretty good assumption, I was caught off guard. A week later (Sept. 16), Marty and I went down to Faribault to see Roger McGuinn play at Shattuck- St Mary’s as part of the school’s Acoustic Roots Se- ries. (A note on the venue: Shattuck’s concert hall is a lovely room with excellent acoustics.) After a bland but harmless opener, McGuinn entered the stage playing “My Back Pages” on his signature Rickenbacker. He sounded fantastic. I couldn’t believe it. This guy made his name blending his voice with three guitars and two other singers, and here he was, all by himself, play- ing guitar and singing, and making it work as well as anyone could have hoped. The song ended, he sat down, and the real show be- gan. He introduced himself and began to tell us about his life. He told us about growing up in Chicago, he told us about getting a radio for Christmas and hearing Rock and Roll for the first ing folk; about taking guitar and banjo lessons; about his first gigs as a musician. He told us about Bob Dylan, David Crosby, and Joan Baez. He told us about working on the film Easy Rider with Peter Fonda. He even told us about meeting the Bee Gees. As he told his stories, he played guitar or banjo, and when he played songs, they fit in the context of his stories. He ran through The Byrds' biggest hits, as well as older tunes of his and traditional folk songs, and he always sounded great. His solo guitar playing was a huge surprise; I had no idea he could play as well as he can. He closed the set with “Turn, Turn, Turn," followed by an encore, and when it was over, I looked at Marty, who politely re- minded me that he’d told me so (again and again). 1 left the concert feel- ing enormously enriched. The music, of course, was wonderful, but hearing the stories behind his songs added depth to his work beyond what was there, and when l hear his music now. it seems to have more life than it ever has... Some of his higher—profile peers should take note. Show less
Friday, Octber 2, 2009 W i Women’s lacrosse ED SHEHWEN Spots Editor It is no secret that student organizations are on the up and coming. One of which is trying to establish itself in the field of athletics. Two women here on campus have expressed interest in beginning a women’s lacrosse team.... Show moreFriday, Octber 2, 2009 W i Women’s lacrosse ED SHEHWEN Spots Editor It is no secret that student organizations are on the up and coming. One of which is trying to establish itself in the field of athletics. Two women here on campus have expressed interest in beginning a women’s lacrosse team. Meghan Novak and Hilary Volkman are combining their ef- forts to make this dream a reality. When Novak is questioned what sparked this interest she replied, “The first time I visited campus I saw a lacrosse net and freaked out because at the time I was unaware if our school had a girl’s lacrosse team." Unfortunately she found out there was only a men’s team which had been recently established. “This bummed me out but also excited me that I could potentially start one,” stated Novak. Through research, Novak found herself in contact with Ryan Gilmartin, president of the Augsburg Men’s Lacrosse team and one of its founders. Gilmartin sent Novak and her collegue, Volk- man in the right direction as far as getting this idea otT the ground. On progress so far Novak stated, “I have an email list going right now, I would say with about 20 or more interested girls.” Novak continues, “A handful of girls have approached us and are excited that somebody is finally starting a team. We are trying to have a meeting soon because we want to see how many girls are actually interested.“ However, this process has been far from bread and butter. “That is the most difficult thing about starting an organiza- tion, you have to have lots inter- ested so you know that when you do all the other dirty work, i.e. paperwork and what not, you have a group in the end,” Nokak said when questioned on her difficulties to date. Obstacles aside. Novak and Volkman seem dedicated to make this organization a reality. When asked of her goals for the up- coming spring Novak said, “My expectations for this Spring: get as many girls involved as possible (experienced and unexperienced), get the league approved. just work basics of lacrosse and teach girls how it works." Looking at the reality of her situation Novak continued, “It‘s going to be a building year, which I’m OK with, but there are hopes that it will be more competitive next year.” With high hopes and a strong drive, these two women are fo- cused on making women’s lacrosse a reality here at Augsburg College. If you are interested in becoming part of such an establishment, feel free to contact Megan Novak. novak@augsburg.edu, or Hilary Volkman, volkmanh@augsburg. edu, with any further questions. Good Luck Ladies Lacrosse! We hope to see you up and running this spring! Minneapolis, Minnesota Page 3 SPORTS Women’s soccer hopes work will pay off LAURA Mora Contributor The Augsburg women’s soc- cer team still has half their season to battle their way to the playoffs. Coaches and players hope their hard work will prove that they are one of the best teams in the country. The MIAC conference is full of solid competitors. Macalester is one of the most challenging obstacles for the women’s soccer team. So, last week the tie against Macalester proved that Augsburg soccer isn’t a team to sell short. Courtney Gamrath, sopho- more, commented on the Macal- ester game, “Our greatest accom- plishment so far probably has been our tie against Macalester. We played hard for 110 minutes (with 20 minutes added time), battling right up till the end. It was the best game we have played so far!" But women‘s soccer doesn't want to tie, they want to win. Multiple games have been close, but not enough for a win. “We have been improving but we need to start winning games," Courtney Barthel, first-year. said. But in order for this team to improve they will need to continue with daily practices that chal- lenge them both competitively and physically. They train to win, two hours a day, Monday through Friday. Whitney Holman, senior, stresses the value of practice, “Practices are hard. competitive and fun. We know how and when to laugh and be silly, but at the same time we know how to get the job at hand done. We always keep score in practice establishing the mind set that we always play to win!“ There are several new, prom- ising faces on the women’s team this year who will help the pro- gram continue to grow. The head '— ' 'llliil Ill! ~ « Mag" |‘ i! gm m. coach, Mike Navarre, has coached at Augsburg for the last 11 years. “The team is very young but has great potential to do great things this fall. My hope for the future is that we add champion— ships to the players” experience in our program while maintaining the personal development that takes place," said Navarre. Gatnrath said. “Our future is bright. We have a lot of young talented first years who are only going to get better. We are push- ing for a MIAC championship and making it to the NCAA playoffs!“ Navarre, as well as his play- ers are hoping this young team will bring them to the playoffs. The women‘s team has made the playoffs four years in a row. Ty- ing for third last year they lost an opportunity to go to the playoffs because of tie breaking criteria. Success will not be easy. Holman comments on what it will take in order to be successful. “It takes hard work. good attitudes and the willingness to push your- selfand your teammates. The girls have the skill and the heart. I know that and can see that. it's a matter ofputting it all together on the field when its game time." These girls want to win not only forthemselves. but their fans. their friends. and the Augsburg community. Most ofthem came to this team because ofthe chemistry they felt on and offthe field. They are not only teammates but best friends. For some, this will be their last season. but that doesn‘t mean that it will be the end. Holman is confident of the future ofwomen's soccer. “1 hope that the girls continue to grow as athletes and leaders. I believe that athletics can help build strong characters and leaders. It would be great to see the program continue to grow in size. talent and accom- plishments as well." Center for Coesehog sod rm ' ~r r1 is :nue south HQECEWE .rt‘om‘ Mus Ober 8th. 2009 pm Promotion w: a free mite-I 2th a :‘1‘ by: hologst is that. anxiety, or other ‘riudL’f‘e conewns Learn a )out or“ and mi campus, treatme. rt resouces Player Profile: Ryan Gilmartin President and captain, men ’s lacrosse ED SHEHWEN Sports Editor A newly established organization, men‘s lacrosse looks to get their third official season underway. The key to this team's existence is the strong leader— ship that has been apparent since day one. Current President and Defensive Captain ofthe men‘s lacrosse team, Ryan Gilmartin. has been a pillar in establishing this team and their inclining success. Gilmartin reflected on this inkling success. “We were 3-9 last year as opposed to our first year at [-1 1 Realizing that Augsburg Lacrosse is a new program Gilmanin stated, "As it has always been said, ‘prog- ress and not perfection is the key to success.w Refracting all of the attention off of himself in the interview Gilmartin recognizes his team members, whom without there wouldn‘t be much to speak of. Augsburg Lacrosse has proclaimed them- selves as a threat in the Twin Cities Area. They have gained recognition and acceptance into this year’s Hotdish Invitational to be played on October 10th and 11th at Lakeville High School South. Gilmartin Be a sports writer for the Echo! Contact our sports editor Ed Shehwen at: shehwen @augsburg. edu the Augsburg com- munity to come out and be of support to their fellow Auggies. Recognizing that his team is still in the growth phase. Gilmartin empha- sizes anyone who is interested in playing ‘ ; men‘s or women‘s lacrosse to contact him at gilmartim augsburgedu. their support! encourages Concluding the interview he wanted to send a special thanks out to the Day—Student Body Government for all of the sup- port over the years. It is largely appreciated. Again. Gilmartin and his fierce Auggies will make their debut on October mm in the Hotdish Invitational. all are encouraged to go out and show .- Thats right. Well pay you to do that. Seeking college—educated students and protessronais ages 18-39 for donations that wrll help infertile couples in need Average visit earns $100 www.123donate.com CRYOt il..\‘!( i Show less
Page 6 VARIETY Minneapolis, Minnesota Frida , October 2 , 2009 Russians Invade Minneapolis! Arctic Monkeys ANDY Mms Columnist 3upchrByi’rre! Welcome to the first of many articles to come centered on classical music. But don’t be scared, the focus will not be on songs and pieces specifically from... Show morePage 6 VARIETY Minneapolis, Minnesota Frida , October 2 , 2009 Russians Invade Minneapolis! Arctic Monkeys ANDY Mms Columnist 3upchrByi’rre! Welcome to the first of many articles to come centered on classical music. But don’t be scared, the focus will not be on songs and pieces specifically from the “classical” period. Instead, I mean musical works that you may hear at the Augsburg Band, Orchestra, or Choir con- certs, on MPR 99.5FM, or while attending a Minnesota Orchestra performance. Whether you are an avid music lover, have an appre- ciation for movie soundtracks (yes, Harry Potter counts), or you are about to stop reading this article, take a look at some great pieces that are most certainly worth your time to hear. In 1933 Sergei Prokofiev (1891-1953) composed “Lieuten— ant Kijé" as the soundtrack for the film of the same name. An adaptation of the novella by Yury Tynyanov. published in 1927, the film was released in Paris in 1937. Prokofiev’s piece runs between 20 to 25 minutes and is divided into five movements: “The Birth of Kije';" “Romance,” “Kijé’s Wed- ding;" “Troika;“ and “The Burial of Kijé." The piece starts off with a solo off-stage trumpet playing Kijé’s theme. followed by a challenging snare drum solo. A fluttering flute joins the snare drum and begins alternating themes with the strings and horns. Eventually the entire orchestra is booming along at a fast-paced march tempo. Eventu— ally the glorious march dies down and the flute and snare duet repeats itself, bringing an end to the first movement. Romance features an instru- ment not usually found in stan- dard orchestras: the saxophone. The movement may not entertain listeners who only enjoy loud raucous music, but don’t pass it by;—it is absolutely gorgeous and may be my favorite movement, the simple melodies interacting make this a gem of 20th century music. The duets between the saxophone theme and the various instruments, including cello, double bass, and flute, can only be described as romantic. When I had a chance to see Kijé performed by the Min— nesota Orchestra last weekend, the pianist (a substitute unlisted in the program) also played the celesta, an instrument resembling piano in appearance and function, but the sound it produces closely resembles that of a glockenspiel (a tiny metal xylophone). The celesta offers a very unique and haunting melody and is another reason I adore this movement. Fans of Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas may be reminded of “Sally’s Song” by Danny Elfrnan. A celebration ensues when Lt. Kijé gets married. The shortest of the five movements, Kijé’s Wed- ding starts outwith a bang and then settles down into the hustle and bustle of the wedding preparations. while the romantic themes from the previous movement make brief appearances. The announcement of the Kijés is accompanied by a grand theme from the horns, which also serves as an over-the-top end- ing when the theme is repeated. The fourth movement, and probably the most well known, is Troika. Frequently used in movies and documentaries about Christmas, Troika makes extensive use of the sleigh bells, tambourine, harp, and pizzicato (plucked) strings, giving it that certain winter feel. Similar to the third move- ment, Troika both begins and ends with an impressive theme. The culmination of this ficti- tious character’s life is The Burial of Kijé. In the story the Russian czar is about to award Kijé (ficti- tious in the story as well; Kijé was made up by a typo and then sent to Siberia so the czar would never actually try and visit him) a medal of honor for his bravery. Shortly afier declaring his wishes to visit Kijé, the czar is informed of Kijé’s untimely death in battle. The Burial ofKijé is as grand as his life was, with nearly every theme from the first four movements making an appearance. The funeral movement is, as one might expect, somber at times and reminiscent at others. An off- stage trumpet can be heard at the opening, playing the same theme as the beginning of the Birth, fol- lowed by the saxophone yearning for love from Romance eventually mixing with the strings from the Wedding. A sobering final off- stage trumpet echoes as a slight chill tingles up your spine, and as quickly as Kije' was made, the suite is over. Prokofiev’s piece is a beauti- ful example of 20th century music, and if you were intrigued enough to read my entire article then I implore you to go to the Lindell Library and check out a copy of the CD or ask the circulation desk staff how to use the online Naxos Music Library. For further listen- ing, check out Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and Romeo and Juliet. Enjoy music. 110 car/marina! Auggie at a glance: Shannon Backes ALISON RAPP Columnist You hear it all the time from Augsburg faculty: studying abroad is the coolest thing since sliced bread, and anyone who doesn’t go at some point during the typi- cal four-year program is not only limiting his or her job prospects, but wasting a perfectly good op- portunity for cheap travel. Still not convinced you should see the outside world? Then read on about Shannon Backes, a junior Auggie who spent last spring and summer studying in Germany. Backes is a Spring Lake Park High School alum, had never been outside the Western Hemisphere. Even as an lntemational Business major with a German minor, she’d confined herself to the Caribbean and Mexico, where her language skills proved useless—that is, until last spring, when Shannon decided to drop everything and brave the unknown in Germany. Backes’s study abroad expe- rience was somewhat unconven- tional. She enrolled in the Duale Hochschule Baden-Wuerrtemberg Mosbach. a university originally for employees of major German companies. which had since adopt- ed a more typical higher-education model; and instead of taking four courses for the entirety of the se— mester. she took nine courses total, each lasting only a week or two. Half of Backes’s classmates hailed from all corners of the globe, including Singapore, Russia, and France, and the other half were native German students, though all classes were taught in English. After her semester of study, Backes remained in Germany to help her university become more English-friendly. She was granted a paid internship with the univer- sity’s international office, creating English syllabi for courses offered to international students, and en- hancing the university’s website to include more English-language pages. And for those who would write ofl‘ Backes’s experience as somehow less stimulating than, say, a trip to South Africa, Backes insists it’s the little things that challenge one’s preconceptions of how people are supposed live. For example, many of us wouldn’t think twice about leaving our heating or air conditioning on while we were out—we want to be comfortable the moment we step through the door, after all. But in Germany, Backes explained, everyone always shuts off their heating systems if they step out, even if it’s unbearably hot or cold outside, for the lone, but noble cause of conserving energy. It’s something we may not normally think about, Shannon continued. but once the conditions change, it’s hard not to notice. Even though Backes had gone abroad with considerable German- speaking skills already under her belt, she still felt slightly out of place with native Germans. “There were so many things I wanted to say, but in German, I don’t know if it will come out the same way. . .even telling a joke... is it an American thing?” Yet, she insists the best thing to do is talk anyway, even if others laugh, because students who take risks while learning a language ultimately learn more than those who don’t. Backes’s most poignant ad- vice was for students who believe they don’t have to go abroad to learn a language, or a culture: “It’s almost like talking about some- body you’ve never met before.” It’s not until you go abroad and put a face to the name, she continued, that you learn what the culture is really like. Though Backes’s expects she won’t be able to go abroad again before she graduates this spring, she still serves as an excellent model of someone who took initia- tive and left her comfort—zone to experience something different. It would do us all well to follow her lead. return to SERGIO Mommwmo Layout Editor It was 10:50 pm. when the anxious crowd finally saw the Arctic Monkeys going up into the stage. It was nearly three hours alter the doors had opened, but the second they started playing, the audience knew that the wait was worth it. The Arctic Monkeys vis- ited Minneapolis ’s legendary First Avenue Main Room last Friday, Sept. 25. Their current tour across the United States promotes their recently released third album “Humbug” (Domino Records 2009) and their prior single “Cry- ing Lighting.” Proceeds from this album will help Oxfam Network’s lifesaving work around the world (www.0xfam.org). Since lead singer and guitar player Alex Turner received his first guitar in 2001 as a Christmas present and formed the band in 2002, the Arctic Monkeys have recorded three albums and visited Minneapolis twice, once in May of 2007 and now in September of 2009. This band has achieved more in seven years than most bands in music history. Indeed. this alternative/post- punk band became one of the most important bands in the UK afier releasing the fastest selling debut album in British history: “What- ever People Say lAm, That’s What I’m Not” in 2006, winning the 2007 BRIT award for Best British Album followed by the 2008 Brit Award for Best British Group. The quartet from Sheffield, England, headlined the show afier all-female pop rock group, The Like, executed an outstanding opening performance. During the show the Arctic Monkeys showed First Ave notorious evolution and a new, nicely synched light-and-sound design. The crowd was amazed by the extended versions of popu- lar hits including “Fluorescent Adolescent” and “I Bet You Look Good On the Dance Floor.” It was evident that The Arctic Monkeys have developed an exceptional act since they started as a band. The First Ave event was unsurprisineg sold-out, and the Arctic Monkeys returned to the stage, after the crowd chanted a series of “one more song” cheers, to play not one, but three more songs, including Nick Cave’s cover “Red Right Hand.” The band closed the show with “505” from their second album “Favorite Worst Nightmare.” Despite their fame in the United Kingdom (UK), the Arctic Monkeys are still visiting venues of relatively small size, which can be attributed to their desire not to become a mainstream band. This is noticed in the new track, “The Net- tles,” which references, as some critics suggest, the drawbacks of the music business and sounds like Alex Turner’s “head-check” to be cautious of the consequences that fame can bring with. After almost an hour and a half show the English band left the stage, leaving the audience satisfied and the Arctic Monkeys’ merchandise stand overflowing with fans trying to get a copy of their latest work. Turner, who was wearing a vintage t-shirt of grunge band The Vines, led the Arctic Monkeys into a worth seeing per- formance at the Downtown Min- neapolis venue. It was energetic, and it was unpretentious. Arctic Monkeys. Check them out. The Acadia JONATHAN CHRASTEK Columnist The Acadia: good food, great atmosphere, and just a little con- fusing for the easily confused. Last week I went to the Aca- dia. Which is technically named ‘Acadia Café’. It’s not really a café in the sense that you aren’t served cotfee and coffee related foods. It’s more of a burger joint with lots and lots and lots of different types of beer! It has one of the best selections of beer on tap in the Twin Cities and it is relatively cheap. It is, however, related to a café in the sense that when you order you go up to the counter, place your order right way, pay and then sit down. That’s the part that confused me... The atmosphere was really fun when I was there; a band was playing. It was a Wednesday and it was still pretty crowded. The music was good, but loud: not the best place for conversation making. A friend of mine had recom- mended the tuna melt, so I ordered it. I’ll assume now that we are friends and can recommend that you don’t try the tuna melt. My girl friend liked it, though. I, on the other hand, preferred her burger. The Acadia does excellent burgers. According to my sources the Southwestern Burger is there best. We also ordered the appe- tizer sampler. Unfortunately, the appetizer arrived the same time as the rest of our food. The sampler consists of onion rings (standard), cheese curds (not too thrilling), and fries which were amazing!!! The fries are not just salted, they are sea- soned. One of my major complaints is that the space is far too small. However, I’m sure it’s nice for the performers as it provides an intimate experience with their audience. What the Acadia lacks in space, it makes up for in atmo- sphere (free live and local music!) and food quality. Stop back next week for my review of Chai’s Thai Restaurant. It is a small Thai restaurant over on Cedar. Thai is my favorite type of food, so I’m excited! And I've never been there before so this should be an experience... Show less
Page 4 OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS Minneapolis, Minnesota Ask President P.: On continuity and discontinuity President Paul Pribbenow No pressing questions this week so allow me to offer some thoughts that seem fitting for our celebration of Homecoming 2009. Professor Brad Holt, in his chapel sermon... Show morePage 4 OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS Minneapolis, Minnesota Ask President P.: On continuity and discontinuity President Paul Pribbenow No pressing questions this week so allow me to offer some thoughts that seem fitting for our celebration of Homecoming 2009. Professor Brad Holt, in his chapel sermon Monday, sug- gested that Augsburg is charac- terized by both continuity and discontinuity — and that there is good to be found both in things that stay the same and in the inevitable change we experience as a college. In his usual wise way, Professor Holt has lifted up an important idea at the heart of our common life. As we welcome Augsburg alumni back to campus this week for celebrations of reunions, distinguished service and the lifelong relationships that were formed during college days, we proudly honor the continuity in our community. Augsburg stu- dents throughout the years have experienced a college educa- tion grounded in commitments to faith, liberal arts, service to others and life in the city. Those commitments connect Augsburg graduates with current students. At the same time, however, it is important to note the ways in which today’s Augsburg students reflect a much more diverse society. Our more than 4,000 students (our largest en- rollment in history) represent a wide variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds, from all socio-economic levels, with broad academic interests and accomplishments, at many dif- ferent points In their lives (from 18 to 65 year-olds). And that is a point of discontinuity with our past. So where does that lead us? Is the proper response to this discontinuity to say this is a dif— ferent college today compared to thirty or forty years ago? Or is it to note the significant changes in the demographics of our student population and then celebrate the ways in which this is still Augs- burg and we are all Auggies? I would hope our response is to celebrate — as we will do this weekend — the ways in which an Augsburg education remains an experience that prepares stu- dents for lives of meaning and purpose in the world. I also think about the ways in which our Augsburg connec- tions to the world reflect this same continuity and discontinu- ity. Last weekend, we hosted on campus former Norwegian prime minister Kjell Magne Bondevik for a discussion of his work in promoting peace and hu- man rights around the world. We also hosted a wonderfiil concert by the Oslo Chamber Choir in the chapel. Hundreds of people came to campus to experience programs linked to our heritage as a college founded 140 years ago by Norwegian immigrants. Continuity with our heritage was evident. But there was much more to our international connections last week. There was the e-mail from Professor Bruce Reichen- bach, who is spending the fall semester at our partner school, United lntemational College in Zhuhai, China. There was the paperwork related to our newly-purchased study center in Windhoek, Namibia. And there were the normal meetings about our many links to our Somali, Ethiopian, Vietnamese and Korean neighbors right here in Cedar-Riverside. Dis~ continuity? Certainly these are examples of the great changes in our life and work as a college community, but I would argue that our historic experience as a college founded by immigrants actually positions us to make these expanding international connections as central to our academic mission as our abiding ties to our founding ancestors. We hold firmly to the his- toric values and commitments that have given Augsburg its distinctive character as a col- lege — a legacy we celebrate this homecoming weekend as we welcome alumni back to cam- pus. At the same time, however, we recognize the remarkable gifts we have been given as a college — gifis of an increasingly diverse student body, expanding high-quality academic ofienngs, and remarkable links to our neighbors around the world. I’m proud to be a part of such a dynamic college commu- nity, learning to honor both the continuity and the discontinuity of a college firmly focused on a vibrant future of educating stu- dents who think critically, serve faithfully, lead efiectively and live responsibly — our abiding mission as Augsburg College. Remember to send your questions for President Pribbe- now to echo@augsburg.edu. Notes from the loyal opposition: Where is the Fine Arts Initiative? PHIL ADAMO Associate Professor of History In late August, the adminis- tration of Augsburg College “re- structured” the Fine Arts Initia- tive out of existence. This is just another in a long line of baffling “re-structurings” since the start of the Pribbenow presidency. Since it happened over the summer—a favorite time for the administration to make such changes—you might not have no- ticed. Perhaps you weren’t even aware that the college had some- thing called a Fine Arts Initiative. But while it existed, you surely felt its impact. The Fine Arts Initiative began under the Frame-Kimball admin- istration in 2002. Its mandate, approved by the College Council, was a simple yet sweeping plan to use the Fine Arts at Augsburg (music, theatre, art, and film) to enhance the profile of the College. Here‘s one measurable im- pact, for those of you who like to measure things with numbers: the Fine Arts Initiative increased Fine Arts majors across the board, fiom ISS in 2002 to 260 in 2008. Those 105 extra students meant an increase in net tuition revenue of well over $1,000,000. For those of you who prefer a qualitative spin, this meant that we had more music majors to play in our ensembles, more studio art majors to fill our galleries, and more theater majors to act on our stages. The Fine Arts Initiative also had a material impact on the cam- pus: new pianos in our practice rooms, new lights in our theatres, and new curtains in our recital halls. It was the driving force behind the production of the Emmy-award winning videotaping of the 25th Anniversary of Advent Vespers. But it is not just the Fine Arts faculty and students who benefit- ted. To name just one example, Augsburg’s “zyzzogeton,” the only campus—wide, multi-disciplinary, combined celebration of scholarly and artistic presentation in the country, came into being from the collaborative spirit outlined in the Fine Arts Initiative. Finally, the Fine Arts Ini- tiative raised the profile of the college by entering into strategic partnerships, in order to present artistic events as wide-ranging as the Fringe Festival, the Edvard Grieg Society, the Bachfestival, the Pedagogy of the Theater of the Oppressed, Mannafest, as well as internationally acclaimed composers like William Bolcum and sculptors like Sam Spicska and Kathleen Moroney. According to the “key strate— gic issues” listed in the Report of the Board of Regents’ Academic Affairs Committee for October 2009: “Strategic partnerships and alliances are part of the fabric of our academic programs . . . The im- portance of such partnerships will increase with demographic shifts and economic realities.” The Fine Arts Initiative established exactly these kinds of partnerships. But now it’s gone. So, why has the adminisna- tion decided to discontinue one of the most successful and creative initiatives on our campus? Is there a plan for continuing all of the forward motion it achieved? Or is Augsburg really doing so well that we can eliminate programs that bring the College new revenue and new students, not to mention national and international recogni- tion? Whither the Fine Arts at Augs- burg? , October2, 2009 Writing from the edge: A summary of the 6-20 summit _ KHALID ADAM Contributor As thousands of protestors lined the streets of Pittsburg in what seemed like another ritualis- tic attempt against globalization, the current economic squeeze and global climate change; 20 of the world’s most powerful lead- ers descended on Pennsylvania’s David L. Lawrence Convention Center between September 24-25 to attend the G-20 Summit. The 0-20 or the group of 20 was established in 1999 to bring together countries to discuss key global issues. Top on this year’s list was trying to find a framework for valuing global bank assets and in also passing important mandates for the lntemational Monetary Fund (IMF) and for the World Bank; and as the world leaders discussed the intricacies of trade imbalances, interest rates and the Iran’s imminent nuclear threat, Greenpeace the world’s premier rogue environmentalist organi- zation took ambitious actions hanging a sign that read, “Danger, Climate Destruction Ahead” off of the West End of the Pittsburgh Bridge in a call to action for global environmental consciousness. A recent conversation with Michael Crocker, a media rep- resentative from Green Peace lntemational lent a better under- standing of an organization many call “irresponsibly radical.’ On being asked about Green Peace’s agenda for week of the G20 summit, he said, “We wanted to frame the week’s agenda to have the imminent danger of climate change to be on top of the list", adding “Serious environmental reform including the abatement of green house gases should be con- sistent with the current economic reform.” He also said the world leaders haven’t done well on their promise to finance sustainable projects to develop renewable energy in developing countries. Apart from the theatrics on the Pittsburg bridge and the ninety minute colorful speech by the Libya’s Muammar Gadhafi, some of the main decisions and recom- mendations were to improve trans- parency in the compensation’s of bank bosses another decision was to replace the G8 with the G20 giving more say to developing countries on everything but global security. The summit also revealed that the IMF had predicted stronger global economic recovery than had been previously thought; some of the not-so new ideas that had been presented on were the disparities in trade imbalances between export dominated countries like China and Japan and heavily indebted consumer economies like the US. How this is going to be different from all the other times the G— 20 made empty on their promises to resist economic protectionism? No one knows as Obama’s tire tariff become the latest trade bar- rier imposed since G-20 members pledged to resist the alluring but not so pragmatic economic and trade policies at their first meeting last November when the financial sector threatened a virtual financial Armageddon. Only time will lend credence to the promises made once again, and with the threat of climate change, the global financial melt- down and the so called “peacefiil” proliferation of nuclear grade Uranium by Iran, we can’t afford to be anything but optimistic. Show less
Friday, October 2, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Turn it off or shove it. Rosanfluusmz -———3 . . El. Holy annoying ringtones Bat- man, I wonder how many different jingles I can hearwhile I’m watch- ing this movie. You may want to check out tmz.com to watch a video of Hugh Jackrnan get angry at a... Show moreFriday, October 2, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Turn it off or shove it. Rosanfluusmz -———3 . . El. Holy annoying ringtones Bat- man, I wonder how many different jingles I can hearwhile I’m watch- ing this movie. You may want to check out tmz.com to watch a video of Hugh Jackrnan get angry at a cell phone ring. The video depicts Hugh Jack- man and Daniel Craig performing their play “A Steady Rain” on Broadway in New York City. Mid- way through a scene, a cell phone goes off in the audience; Jackman addresses it while still performing in character. He is in character but he is clearly angry. People are paying about $140 per ticket to see that show, and even though the audience chuckled when Jaclcman addressed the issue, it still broke the fourth wall and the experience. This is just one small example of a much larger problem: cell phones going at? at times when they’re specifically supposed to be shut off. So with that being said, there are a few specific situations in life when cell phones should always be turned off: One, the movie theater, two, when you’re in class, and three, when you’re on a date. There are three reasons why I don’t go to theaters much any- more. The first is the value. Why blow $20 for $30 tickets and treats when you can spend $10 for popcorn, a rental, and complete privacy? The second reason I don’t go to the theater much anymore is that the experience just isn’t what it used to be when I was younger. We’ve reached a time now that for a reasonable amount of money you can purchase a big flat screen TV and decent surround sound system, and have a better theater experi- ence at home rather than spend it at the theater. When I was a kid the tech- nology just wasn’t available for really affordable home theater, but now we can put technology in our homes that rivals what some local theaters have. The third and biggest reason I don’t go is not because of the overall experience, but rather the annoying piles of biomass that sur- round me when I go to the theater. Nine out of ten times when I visit my local cinema, I hear cell phones go 01? in every which direction. It may not be multiple rings throughout the show; many times it happens to be one long ring at just the wrong moment, but the fact remains that this is just wrong. We go to the movie theater to enjoy the experience “together.” Sure, you may not know anyone in the theater with you, but that’s the point. We gather together for one temporary experience that we all want to enjoy in that moment. This is why comedies and horror movies are usually more fun to watch with crowds of people. The theater may be the only place where being surrounded by strangers in a dark room is okay. We feed ofi’ of each others’ reac- tions. In a way, we’re actually bonding with strangers. This may sound strange, but it’s rather true. Congress is considering a law that would ban cell phone use while driving. However, we don’t want to feed off of each other’s phone calls. If Tweeting to your prepubes- cent friends about how you got plastered and fell over a guard rail is more important to you, than stay out of any respectable establish- ment that requires manners. That being said, I think there are also many people who actually like to receive calls during a movie, and I think these folks need to find the edges of the earth, wherever they may be, and well, jump off. The reality is you’re paying money for a single, short, fun experience. Why would you want to ruin that for everyone around you? This is Minnesota, and you’re probably not going to see a UFC style fight break out on the streets, but there are a good number of citi- zens who would willingly pound the cell phone carnage out of you for ruining their experience. Do you really want to explain to everyone how you got beat down, “Well, my cell phone went oil, and then, next thing I knew I was lying in the parking lot, sur- round by haters.” Just remember, you brought it on yourself. As far as the classroom goes, I think are a few rules to follow. I know some of you are reading this and thinking, “Well what does he know, I can do what I want,” and you’re right, you can do what you want. It’s just that you have no respect for anyone but yourself. I could only understand if you had an “extremely” important “business” call you were waiting for, and your job depended on it, but at least have it on silent, which means NO VIBRATIONS! Good vibrations come in the form of Marky Mark and The Funky Bunch, not in the form of cell- phones. Once again, it’s courtesy for everyone else. We’re all in college, which is a transition to something bigger and brighter, and as you all well know, this is a very expensive endeavor. I know many of you are floating in here on your parent’s dollar, and could care less about operating that I-phone your daddy bought you; but consider courtesy. There are also many students who actually work hard for every Benjamin they pour into this place, and they actually care about their education; imagine that. You see college is a place of transition, kind of like death, but more positive. It’s important we pay attention and take it seriously, because it is expensive, and most importantly employers take it seri- ously. Sure we can talk about classes that seem useless, and mull over general courses that teach us things we’ll never use, but that’s the na- ture of the beast. The bottom line is that there’s plenty of time to waste purchas- ing ridiculous ringtones and tex- ting your incapacitated drunkard friends. Save it. You’re a fool to spend this kind of dough just to screw around. The other instance where the off button is important is when you’re exchanging glances with a significant other. Whether it‘s a first date, or just dinner and a movie with your boy toy or gal pal, it’s just not decent. Like the other situations I described, it’s a matter of respect. Playing on your cell-phone is basi- cally a slap in the face. If you’re out with someone in a date-like situation and they flip out their phone to text or take a call, turn around and hit the road, because that person is a waste of your time. Of course, we have our phones with us most of the time, but that doesn’t mean we have to fiddle with it. Leave it alone, concentrate on the other person and have a good conversation. You know, like the good old days. So what else can I say? Well, if I owned a theater I wouldn’t al- low them in the building. If I was a teacher I would lower grades for using them in class, and if my girlfriend were texting when I was first courting her, I’d be living alone right now. So I challenge the Blackberry addicts, the I-phonaphiles, and the rest of you cellular Neanderthals, to let go once in a while. To realize that life is more than the clicking of buttons or staring at two—inch screens. We are not our cell-phones. We are not the worth of our cellular company '5 text message plan. We are the all singing all dancing crap of the world. We should revel in this fact and take notice, all ye who enter here — TURN OFF YOUR PHONE, OR SHOVE IT. Page 5 OPINIONs/ EDITORIALS WTF Augsburg? ANDY MYERS Stafl Writer Before A’viands changed the name to the A Club Grille (or as I like to call it, the “A/C Lub Grilly), there was this great place called Murphy’s (a perfectly good name might I add). Another example of why Murphy’s was better is this: 1 could get what every basic burger and grill joint has, FRENCH FRIES. A’viands, WTF? Way to drop the ball (and the deep fryer) during the first full week of school. Dear public speakers and professors: We as students go to your lectures, your presentations, and your classrooms. We are supposed to look up to you, respect you, and believe that what you are presenting to us will open up opportunities; that we may grip the folds of knowledge you give to us, with tight hands and an open mind. This withstanding, l have found throughout my years at Augsburg that some of the public speakers and professors visiting our college seem to be getting more closed minded as the years go by. They’re Starting to think the only way of understanding something is how they present it. I went to the Monday Convocation featuring Bill McKib- ben. Now, while I won’t sit here and quibble with his opinions on climate change, I will quibble with how he presented his information. As a public speaker, yourjob is to not only present the “facts” as you see them, but to present them persuasively. Persuasiver I might add, not narrow mindedly. He used this phrase, and I quote, "All you need to know is How on earth can you say that to students? How can you say that with a conscious mind? How are students supposed to stay open-minded if the speaker is not open about what he or she is saying? There are always at least two sides to a story, and there are scientists out there who disagree with him, if only slightly. As a public speaker, you can discredit the other side all you want using facts, but you shouldn’t be using phrases like the one I stated above. It makes it seem like anyone who disagrees with you is an idiot, or you’re afraid of people disagreeing with you. Neither of those points benefits any public speaker or teacher. Professors go about it differently. I am focusing specifi- cally on English professors. English professors have been do- ing their work so long, it might seem like they’re just going through the motions. This is only half the truth. English professors have read many books, and sometimes more than once. They get used to this process so much that they sometimes get in a rut and teach something just one way, or instinctively know it as one way. They don’t look at other interpretations or thoughts as having any validity. There could be some truth to this, though. Instead of being just a professor, continue being a student as well, you might learn something new. Professors seem to be doing the same thing as public speakers: shoot it down before there can ever be an opposition. I would think that they are not doing this intentionally. At least from my experience with them, I don't think they are. However, by not looking at how another person would interpret something, and brushing it off, they are closing doors in the mind. They are refusing to make connections, just like the public speakers are doing when they say phrases like “All you need to know.” All I ask is that when you are teaching or presenting as a public speaker, remember that you can learn something by listening to another side as well. That you keep your minds as open as you expect your students to be. Yours Truly, An Aspiring Open Minded Student Ashley Abbate Show less
Ask President P. ‘...and response. é iThe College’s Student—Produced Newspaper Acadia Student Review and community’s farmer's market. - Variety section Friday, October 2, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXV, Issue 2 Homecoming 2009 LGTBQIA takes steps to prevent harassment Sm KLEMP Stafl... Show moreAsk President P. ‘...and response. é iThe College’s Student—Produced Newspaper Acadia Student Review and community’s farmer's market. - Variety section Friday, October 2, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXV, Issue 2 Homecoming 2009 LGTBQIA takes steps to prevent harassment Sm KLEMP Stafl Writier Augsburg is celebrating Homecoming 2009 with a football game versus Harnline University and a full week of events, includ- ing a picnic in Murphy Park, a block party, and live music. For this year’s homecoming football game, the Augsburg Auggies will go up against the Hamline University Pipers. Augsburg and Hamline are both 1—2 afier three games played by each team so far this season. With Augsburg’s win against St. Olaf during Homecom- ing last year under their belts, dozens of Augsburg fans will be cheering for the Auggies to win it again. The game will be held on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 1 pm. at the Edor-Nelson Field. Prior to Saturday afiemoon’s game, Augsburg will be hosting the pre-game picnic in the park. The event will be held from 11 am. to 1 pm. in Murphy Park. The camival-style picnic will include games, a bounce house, food vend- ers and carnival-style booths run by student organizations. After the game, Homecoming activities will continue with the Auggie Block Party. The celebra— tion will be held from 3:30 pm. to 7 pm. on 7th St., which is located between Lindell Library and Sverdrup Hall. This post- game event will include music by Radical Chic, Canon Chorus and Paragraphs, barbecue, alumni reunions, and more. Toward end the night, more live music will be preformed from 7 pm. to 9 pm. on 7th St. The Rockin’ Hollywoods will perform “Solid Gold Rock & Roll,” includ- ing songs from the 1950’s through the 1980‘s. Following Saturday’s events, a chapel service will be held at ll am. in Hoversten Chapel. In addition to the football game and weekend events, students. staff and alumni collaborated to orga— nize several events throughout the week of Sept. 28 through Oct. 4. The week’s events were to be commenced by a fireworks display Monday night, but it was canceled due to poor weather and is resched— uled for Saturday. A variety of other events were scheduled through the week, including a student Homecoming Pep Rally and Coronation, Health Fair, Athletic Hall of Fame Ban- quet and Homecoming Convoca- tion. DAVE MADSEN News Editor In the beginning of last year’s school year, a student found himself humiliated after a series of harass- ments involving sexual orientation. Alex Merritt, 18, was accused of perceived homosexuality by 39-year old Social Studies teacher Diane Cleveland. and 56-year-old Criminal Justice teacher Walt Fil- son. The reported mocking elicited death threats from fellow students and caused Merritt to transfer to Zimmerman High Schoolia school more than 25 miles away. An investigation and sub- sequent lawsuit emerged later in the academic year as the Anoka— Hennepin school board came un- der fire for intolerance. In July, the district made a $25,000 settlement with Merritt under orders from the state Department of Human Rights. Although the district also called for training to be conducted for faculty, the alleged mocking is still being denied by both Cleve- land and Filson. In addition, the on-leave teachers reported that Merritt had plans to bring firearms onto school property. As members of an academic institution, many Augsburg stu- dents and staff are left wondering as to the possible implications this lawsuit may have on our com— munity. Augsburg’s LGBTQIA program serves our campus by providing advocacy and support for those deeply involved with gender and sexuality expression. As Assistant Director of Campus Activities and Orientation. as well as the coordinator of LGTBQIA, Michael Grewe provided a reac- tion to the ongoing Anoka case. “i think it’s very sad and un- fortunate that a student had to deal with that kind of hostile environ- ment in the classroom. especially from one’s teachers.“ Grewe said. “If these teachers were targeting this student based on his perceived sexual orientation through harass- ment. then that could potentially constitute a hate crime." Although measures have been put into place, Augsburg‘s environ- mentilike any campus—certainly isn‘t devoid ofits share ofslurring. Perhaps such harassment does not occur between students and professors, but programs like the LGTBQIA program exist to de— crease discrimination and improve our campus’ climate of diversity. When asked about how Augs- burg fares in regard to an atmo- sphere of acceptance, Grewe said. “I don’t know and have not been made aware if what specifically happened in the Alex Merritt case is occurring at Augsburg , . . There are bias incidents that occur at Augsburg each year involving someone’s perceived sexual ori- entation and/or gender identity, some of which do occur in the classroom." If such a case of harassment were to take place at Augsburg, students are urged to take immedi- ate action and contact LGTBQIA services. Sarah Griesse, Dean of Students. as well as Ann Garvey. Vice President of Student Affairs. can also be contacted to file a re- port. Anoka teachers Cleveland and Filson may have not been adequately trained to be sensitixe toward students with different sexual identity considerations. in an effort to combat incidents like last year's Merritt case. .~\ugsburg has made sensithity training a priority for professors around campus. Grewe and the LGTBQIA coordinate two voluntary 3-hour trainings every semester during which staff and faculty receive an adequate understanding ofgender and sexual related topics. “i also can and have trained individual offices. departments. and student groups." Grewe said. “Everyone who participates through the training gets an ‘Ally’ placard which they can display in their office or residence hall." As an academic institution. Augsburg is unique in that it pro- vides GLBT-specific training. on a regular basis, to students and staff alike. Grewe reported that such training does not occur in most colleges or universities. Grewe said. “The Alex Mer- ritt case has highlighted the need to train education professionals around GLBT issues so that all students can feel welcomed. af- firmed. and safe in their classrooms in order for them to actively learn and participate to the fullest of their abilities." Co-curricular involvement brings on—campus fun Pam MILLER Contributor Last Friday, Orientation Leaders refereed, while students doubled-up for the first SOARing Nightlife event. The Auggie Table Tennis and Pool Tournament, which was held in the Student Lounge, offered students a com- petitive yet casual environment to spend their Friday evening. On Saturday night, OL’s and Augsburg onlookers were wowed by Master Illusionist Sean Phil- lips, who also brought his act to the Student Lounge. These events support community engagement and activities on campus. The Co—Curricular Involvement Team. in conjunction with other campus organizations, will be hosting a series of fun—filled evenings with the message: “Just Stay.” The inspiration for these activities began last year when the Co-Curricular Involvement Team surveyed students about their interests and the way that opportunities have been initiated. Taylor Norman, assistant for Cam- pus Activities and Orientation, commented that CClT “found that a large number of students consid- ered Augsburg to be a ‘backpack campus’ [meaning students go home on the weekends].” This migration on the week- ends and other information also “indicated that students were looking for ways to be involved and participate in events that didn’t necessarily mean joining an organization or group with weekly meetings and large time commit- ments,” Norman added. SOARing Nightlife supports sustained involvement and active investment in the community, but through more one-shot activities. lt is a chance for students to just stay at Augsburg, get to know a wider group of students, and share an evening relaxed competition or entertainment. At the Auggie Table Tennis and Pool tournament on Friday night, ten teams participated in the Doubles Table Tennis and in the Pool tournament. Sponsored by Campus Activities and Orien- tation, the pop of comer-pocket- shots, and over-head top-spin-lobs combined with a chorus of up— tempo music, pop—com making, and rowdy fans, made for a lively evening. Amanda Schwartz and Becky Reinmann, both Orien- tation Leaders, organized the event. Players Passes indicated each member of the teams, while brackets followed the winners. Al V0 and Alex V0 took home the championship in table temris, while pool was ruled by Houa Lor and Eugene Taltala. On Saturday night, Sean Phillips, Master Illusionist, entertained students with stage and mind tricks. With risky volunteers, the Illusionist defied basic metaphys- ics and biological certainty, in a heart felt way: “He had a volun- teer count his pulse on his wrist and alter a while she couldn‘t feel it anymore,” responded Lauren Grafelman, one of the Orientation Leaders at the event. After showing off his heart- less ruse, Phillips demonstrated, in true collegiate form, his value of vocabulary. Two volunteers chose the first word from a random page in the dictionary, and while Phil- lip’s back was turned, he printed the words that the volunteers had chosen. The students were unequivo- cally impressed. “I think everyone really enjoyed it. They all seemed really into it," (irafelman said. His performance concluded the first series in SOARing Night- life and was also sponsored by CAO. These programs, “in a series of events. one held on Friday and one on Saturday nights each month [will] provide an incentive for students to stay on campus," Nor- man said. To encourage involvement and interest from different parts of campus, each event is sponsored by a different group on campus. it is an opportunity to build a strong. alternative way to form life-long bonds in a casual setting. From the CAO website. students can gain access to SOARing Nightlife events which will happen in the future. Show less
Page 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota Day Student Government is saving you money KELLY DAUGHERTY PR Oflicer, ADSG Augsburg Day Student Government has partnered with Student Savings Club to give Auggies everywhere a dis— count at local businesses. The Student Savings Club is an organization that... Show morePage 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota Day Student Government is saving you money KELLY DAUGHERTY PR Oflicer, ADSG Augsburg Day Student Government has partnered with Student Savings Club to give Auggies everywhere a dis— count at local businesses. The Student Savings Club is an organization that collaborates with nearby businesses and colleges to offer students. faculty and staff great discounts. All you have to do is show your Augsburg ID and mention the Student Savings Club at participating stores and you will receive a discount. A few companies require that you print a coupon beforehand as well. The Student Savings Club oflers discounts at 77 difler- ent businesses. The top five great discounts include: - 2nd Moon on Franklin offers buy one regular cofi‘ee and get one FREE. - Corner Bar on Washington offers a large two-topping pizza for $9.99 (coupon required). - The Guthrie in Minneapolis offers $5 0fi° a regular priced ticket. - Quizno‘s Subs on Washington oiTers a FREE combo with the purchase of a regular or large sub. - Triple Rock Social Club on Cedar offers ten percent 011’ any meal purchase. These are just a few examples of local businesses offer- ing fantastic discounts to you at anytime! To find out more information about businesses that are participating, check out: www.studentsavingsclub. com Frida , October 2, 2009 & Youth ministry team demonstrates the spirit PETER MILLER Contributor On Friday night, in the Foss Chapel, students gathered around a table of fresh sandwiches, soft- drinks, and chocolate-chip cookies for Youth Ministry Team’s annual Kickoff. Students from all disciplines and backgrounds came together to share their interest in youth development and faith learning. In prior years, YMT has facilitated volunteer opportunities at local churches for Augsburg students. YMT works specifically with youth leaders and youth groups. They also work to bring young people on campus, for worship and fellowship, and for possible recruitment. In area congregations, YMT works to provide an active and engaged worship and fellowship experience. From overnight lock- ins to Gospel skits, worship music to Bible study, Auggies bring their bountiful talents, their diverse sto- ries, and their passionate beliefs. For Marrta Wyatt, one of the coordinators, “Youth Ministry equips young people with college mentors and role models. It’s a great tradition, to connect with young people and give them a glimpse of college life.” College students can provide a link between the growing and changing faith of adolescents as they learn the traditions and history of Christianity. Through activities, challenging questions, and welcoming attitudes, teens are given a space to explore their own spiritual practice. YMT nurtures a watchful eye and conscious reflection. Nathan Barrett, another leader in YMT, believes that programs help teens “look forward into their futures.” For teens it is a chance to build relationships. “We share a unique bond, in the light and teachings of Jesus. It’s exciting for them to meet col- lege students and it’s exciting for us to share our beliefs” Barrett continued. YMT has their first lock-in at St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church in St. Paul on October 9th. They will also travel to Blaine on October 30th, to host Christ Lutheran’s youth. At Augsburg, YMT acts as an ambassador for the college. When groups are participating in mission trips in Minneapolis, as an urban emersion from rural congrega— tions, YMT will provide housing, tours, student panels, worship, meals, and music. This hospitality encourages, usually for the first time, young people to visit college campuses, especially Augsburg. “If the youth learn more about Augsburg, that‘s great, but it’s not main focus. We just want young people to feel as comfortable as we do in this place. College can be very intimidating at first,” Wyatt commented. As a crash course in student life, leadership, and college prepa- ration, YMT delivers a plethora of ubiquitous opportunities. On October 23, 24, and 25, Auggies will welcome English Lutheran from LaCrosse, Wisconsin. The following weekend, on October 29th, a youth group from the Milwaukee area synod will join students for Chapel, lunch, and a panel. In addition, on November 13th, Augsburg will be one of the sites for Moonlight Madness, a youth activity night for a conglom- erate of metro-area congregations. These prospective events are designed to foster strong youth relationships, but they also have distinct advantages for Auggies. “It helps students grow as future leaders in communities, in churches, and in homes. Being in contact with adolescents is not easy, but it reminds you of the importance of setting a good ex- ample. Young people are always around and they look up to us as college students” Wyatt said. Augsburg College Echo Fall 2009 Staff El. s_i_g.f 10 El. Molly Ehling Sergio Monterrubio Becki Iverson Molly Ehling A E ' r Malena Thoson Becki Iverson F res ' r £2291 flitor Andrea Sanow Ted Conover Em Editor 312mm Dave Madsen Kendra Christiansen i ‘ itor' s 't r Adv i ' M er Roger Huelsnitz Sarah Gillund Sputum MAM Ed Shehwen Boyd Koehler 731 let Avenue 5, CB 148 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454 Tips — cchotips@gmail.com Fax — (612) 330—1666 E-mail — echo@augsbu.rg.edu Phone - (612) 330—1102 The Augsburg Echo is published each Friday —— except during vacation periods and holidays -— by the students of Augsburg College. Opinions expressed in the Echo are those of the authors and do not necessanly reflect those of the supporting staff, administration. faculty, alumni/ac or the remainder of the students. The Echo does not necessarily promote the products or services it advertises. Advertisements 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 subject to revision. 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 appropriate. Printed by Print Group Midwest on recycled paper. URGO offers unique academic opportunities CAR—Was: The Office of Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity (URGO) is an office that con— nects students with both new and existing research and scholarship opportunities on campus, across the United States, as well as internationally. URGO assists students applying for post- graduate scholarships, fellowships, and educational opportunities. URGO also provides year-round pre-professional test preparation courses for the GRE, LSAT, and GMAT. Find out more at: www.augsburg.edu/urgo. Faculty-Student Research Funds Available Applications for academic year faculty-student collaborative research funding are now available at http://www.augsburg.edu/urgo/. Proposals from all academic disciplines are welcome to apply-- from Art to Zoology! URGO aims to support a wide breadth and depth of undergraduate research and creative scholarship at Augsburg College. Student Conference Travel Funds Available Interested in presenting research at a national conference related to your academic discipline for FREE? You can apply for a student conference travel award! Faculty and students are asked to col- laborate on completing the application. Applications should be submitted about one week prior to these meeting dates for committee review. Find an application at www.augsburg.edu/urgo! Funding decisions for both research and travel awards will be made on a rolling basis by the URGO Advisory Committee which meets on the following Mondays this semester: Oct. 5th and 19th; Nov. 2nd, 16th, and 30th; Dec. 14th. Questions? Contact Dixie Shafer, URGO Director at shafer@augsburg.edu Hey. Write your opinion for the ECHO. Now Show less
Page 8 Minneapolis, Minnesota THE BACK PAGE , Setember 25, 2009 How to study abroad: ANDREA SANOW Features Editor For years, the Augsburg Abroad office has helped students discover, apply and prepare for programs abroad. In your years at Augs- burg, you may come to find that studying abroad isn’t... Show morePage 8 Minneapolis, Minnesota THE BACK PAGE , Setember 25, 2009 How to study abroad: ANDREA SANOW Features Editor For years, the Augsburg Abroad office has helped students discover, apply and prepare for programs abroad. In your years at Augs- burg, you may come to find that studying abroad isn’t right for you, but if you have the time and the opportunity, why not take it? Here is some advice and information on the steps a student must take to study abroad. I Attend a Group Advising Session. According to Orval Gingerich, Vice President for International Programs and Director of the Center for Global Education, and Leah Spinosa de Vega, Director of Augsburg Abroad, this is the first step a student interested in studying abroad should take. “It [the Group Advising Session] answers some of the students initial questions and it also gives the student some initial questions they should be asking," Gingerich said. “It helps them through the narrowing process and the thoughtful approach to study abroad.” Group advising sessions are offered everyday, twice a day and by appointment. Sessions are help in Murphy Place at the Augsburg Abroad office. During the session. a student will be surrounded by information on programs from over 90 countries. “Don‘t decide where you want to go before you get there,” Spinosa de Vega said. "We want to help find students something that is a good fit in many ways." Instead of obsessing over countries, think about your personal goals before attending a session. V Understand Your Goals. “One of the most important things to remember is that it is study abroad,” Spinosa de Vega said. “I like to start with people’s academic goals and intercultural goals.” Discovering what you want to learn on your study abroad trip is one of the most important things a student can think about before choosing a program. Next, a student should know a little bit about what they want to do career or work-wise after graduation. “Studying abroad is very much a strategic decision about your fu- ture and how it will help you understand yourself and the world better,” Spinosa de Vega said. Elizabeth Hansen, Nicaragua Applications and Acceptance. Two separate processes must be completed to apply for studying abroad. A student must apply to the Augsburg Abroad office and to the program they he or she has selected. After being accepted to both, students go through orientations to prepare them for health, safety and cultural changes. Spinosa de Vega also said that the office works with parents to help them get their head around their child studying in another country. Make a Plan. The planning process for a study abroad trip should start as soon as possible. “Its really never too early to start the process. The sooner you sit down and learn the basics, the more likely you will be to find the basics and maybe go more than once,” Spinosa de Vega said. Both Augsburg Abroad advisers agreed that studying abroad can help you graduate on time. “The whole planning process is an excellent opportunity for a stu— dent to think seriously and critically about their degree plan," Gingerich said. “We would prefer that students work in conjunction between their own ideas, advice from us at Augsburg Abroad and advice fiom their academic adviser.” Once a student has thought about and decided upon his or her strengths, he or she can choose a program that holds their interest- “There is a large range of programs out there, some of which provide a lot of support to students and some which allow students to be a little more independent in how the program runs,” Gingerich said. Augsburg Abroad also provides programs for students with learning or mobility disabilities. Like all programs, this requires planning ahead and asking questions of advisers and program directors. While a student is in country, they receive support not only from program staff, but also the staff of the Augsburg Abroad office. Application Deadlines for CGE and HECUA programs: Oct. 1, 2009: Spring Semester & Faculty-led Winter Break Programs lFeb. l, 2010: Faculty—led Summer/Spring WEC programs March I, 2010: Fall Semester, Academic Year & non-Augsburg Summer ‘Remember: apply to Augsburg Abroad by these deadlines, even if program deadlines are different. For more information contact: Augsburg Abroad-Murphy Place Fbroad@augsburg.edu 12.330.1650 Show less
Friday, September 25, 2009 JONATHAN CHRASTEK Food Critic This being the first food review for the echo, I thought it would be fitting to review food on campus to let everyone know about the different places to eat here and what’s good, and what’s... less than good. We’ll start with today’s lunch at... Show moreFriday, September 25, 2009 JONATHAN CHRASTEK Food Critic This being the first food review for the echo, I thought it would be fitting to review food on campus to let everyone know about the different places to eat here and what’s good, and what’s... less than good. We’ll start with today’s lunch at “A-Club Grille.” It’s the new name for Murphy’s grill from last year. They’ve updated the seating area but sacrificed the food and service. I went in with no expec- tations. I thought: new name, new stuff. I had heard from my roommates that the burgers were halfirvay decent, so I thonght, why not? When I went to, let’s call it the Grille, the deep fryer was out so I could not rew'ew their chips (or fries if you’re American), so I stuck with a chicken quesadilla and got a burger. I got in line... and waited... and waited... well let’s just cut to the chase. It was about half an hour before I got my food, and it wasn’t even that crowded. Let me just make a side note about the new Grille. This year, unlike last, you get a number and have to wait for it to be called. Instead of letting you sit down and wait, like a classy new name such as ‘the Grille’ would imply, you have to wait right next to the food line. It’s just really slow down there. A suggestion for improve- ment would be having a loud speaker or a PA so the cook could announce your order, instead of letting you stand in the middle of Minneapolis, Minnesota the order line. It’s just poor plan- ning on their part. Anyway, the food, my chicken quesadilla, was uninspiring. All right, it was just plain dull. And it seemed to be missing some of the listed ingredients. My girl friend’s “California Burger” was more like Wisconsin, nothing special. Have I mentioned the price? That’s very important for all you readers who don’t have meal plans. It was $6.30 for a lame chicken quesadilla, but only $3.60 for a Wisconsin burger. If you order two burgers, the second is only two dollars more. Nice deal, huh? Did I mention for cheese on your burger, it’s an extra dollar? So AClub Grille is perfect if you like average food and slow-~really slow--service. Now let’s move up stairs to Cooper’s Coffee Shop (one of my Auggie at a Glance: Sam Smith ALI RAP? Contributor Average college students waste away their time at school, remaining out of public view and disregarding opportunities for leadership. Sam Smith, however, is not an average college student. Currently a junior Interna— tional Relations major, Sam is Augsburg’s Day Student Body President, making him responsible .for approximately 2,000 of his peers. ,He acts as their liaison to Augsburg’s administration, includ- ing President Paul C. Pribbenow and the Board of Regents. Sam’s schedule consists of a full course load, and six to seven meetings per week (including Student Govem- ment’s (StuGov) approx. three- hour weekly meeting). A weighty task for any student, but Sam is no stranger to politics. Homecoming Prince at Still- water High School, Sam grew up in a family entrenched in the public sphere. His mother is a teacher at Bruce F. Vento Elementary School in St. Paul, and his father boasts an impressive resume, having served as the State Commissioner of Revenue under Jesse Ventura, and the Director of Finance for St. Paul under Mayor Chris Coleman. Sam’s older brother is a Peace Corps volunteer in Ukraine. And now Sam is paving his own way through politics. As a first-year, Sam jumped at an open Senatorial position in the Day Student Government, and helped bring A’viands to Augsburg. Most students would call that suflicient enough as a collegiate accomplish- ment, but Sam didn’t stop there. He was later named an Orientation Leader and a Summer Community Advisor for Mortensen Hall. In his “spare time,” Sam functioned as Editor of the Echo’s Sports section. After all that hard work, you’d expect someone like Sam to take a break--but he didn’t stop. Last summer, Augsburg’s Office of Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity awarded Sam $2,000 to study online com- munities, and what it means to be a social person in the age of anonymity, disembodiment, and technology. As Sam put it, “I got paid to play computer games.” But Sam’s ambitions didn’t stop there: last year, after a hotly contested election against his “best friend...and inspiration” Juventino Meza, Sam was elected the 2009-2010 Day Student Body President. According to Sam, “Everything I’ve done at Augsburg has prepared me to be the Student Body President—my work with StuGov. . .with ResLife. . .with Ori- entation. It’s all showed me ways I can be effective.” Sam also said he likes to think of the position as one of stewardship, rather than one of politics. And yet, Sam has no delu— sions about his responsibilities: “Ben [Ben Krouse-Gagne, Sam’s running mate and the current Day Student Body Vice President] and I won only by about 40 votes [out of 500 votes cast]. We have people we’re going to be accountable to this year.” Sam’s goals for his time as Student Body President include a sustainability plan modeled after Macalester’s, and changing the apathy among Augsburg’s stu- dents. Pressed, Sam explained: “There is a select group of students who make the decisions for the... larger community. I’d like to see more students get involved. . .care more...about how their student activity fee is used, how their tu- ition is used. . .and to hold StuGov accountable.” But Sam won’t be Student Body President forever. He has two years lefi, including this one, and he intends to make good use of them. This January, he’ll be joining a faculty-led study abroad trip to Nicaragua, where he’ll study globalization and women’s movements; next fall, he intends to study in Africa for a semester. Though still a long way off, Sam predicts he’ll work in an embassy, following in the footsteps of his grandmother, who is currently fin- ishing assignments at an embassy in Montreal. One thing’s for certain: Sam Smith has already demonstrated himself to be a true public servant. He invites you to join him every Wednesday night at 7:30 PM. in OGC 100 for StuGov meetings, which are open to the entire Augs- burg community. Page 7 FEATURES :Qn-campus eateries: not your high school’s lunchmeat favorite eateries on campus). l’ll keep this short, great drinks [dirty polar bear], and good seasonal spe- cials [the apple cider, and Kahlua mocha]. Also, there are good and cheap packaged snacks, but those lack variety. Now for the Caf. or “The Commons.” As all of us who are on meal plans know, the food is not that great. But there is a lot of selection. To save all those who don’t have meal plans and are wondering [which you should not be] what the food’s like up there: lots of selection, lots of variety, some healthy food, always ice cream, and a good coffee/mocha machine thing. But what it really comes down to is this: great selec- tion, but not enough quality. Do a few things really well and people will like them. Do everything poorly and... well, it’s the only food to eat, so we eat it. And last but not least. My favorite place to eat on campus: “Nabo” or as l affectionately call it “NaBozo.” It’s good. Not so overpriced as the others and just about everything there is good. And trust me, l‘ve havejust about had everything there. This year, l‘ve had a turkey - sandwich and an order ofthe pesto pasta and both were really good. On top ofgreat food came friendly service. Compared to the other eat- eries on campus, I must say Nabo has the best food. I would highly recommend all the sandwiches and pastas. Check out next week when I review Acadia Café. which has great food, free live music and a convenient location in relation to Augsburg. ’ Ask Andrea: The best way to get the worst advice ANDREA SANOW Features Editor Have a question about life atAugsburg? Worried about the relationship between you and your very different roommate? Want to know how to make delicious choc- olate chip cookies or pull the per ect prank? Ask me. I ’11 tel you the truth. Dear, Andrea: I really want to write for the Augs- burg Echo, but I’m not sure how to get in contact with the editors or how to get story ideas. What should I do!? Gratefully, Wanting to Write I’m so glad you asked! All you have to do is email me (sanow@ augsburgedu) or one ofthe other editors (their emails will be in their sections or the contact box floating around here somewhere). If you already have an idea for a story. email the editor in the appropriate section. Alas. ifyou are experienc- ing the pains of writer‘s block. stop by the Echo staff meeting in the Echo office in the basement of the Christensen Center on Friday‘s at 10:15 am. Until then, seek the truth and report it my friend! Sincerely. Andrea Note: Andrea is not a professional. If professional advise is what you seek, see the Center for Coumsling and Health Promotion: CCHP House, 21st Ave , 612-330-1707 or visit: http://www.augsburg. edu/cchp/ MARY, page 6 Mary and Chariie experience a time when first kisses were shared by soul mates, and heartbreaks might end in death. Charlie, writ- ing to Mary, tells of the first experi- ences of chemical warfare. Mary meanwhile explains that she may meet the same end as the Lady of Shallot, floating dead down the river, should Charlie fail to return from the war. Alfred Lord Tennyson‘s “The Charge of the Light Brigade”, a poem repeatedly referenced in “Mary’s Wedding” points to a gen- eral zeitgeist of pre-WWI North America. Like the play itself. the poem is at once romantic and tragic, beautifully written while containing horrific subject matter. Describing a battle in 1854, Ten— nyson writes “Storrn’d at with shot and shell, /Boldly they rode and well, /Into the jaws of Death, /Into the mouth of Hell lRode the six hundred.” As the poem describes awfiil woes of war with beautiful words, so does the performance. Director/designer Joel Sass, and choreographer Carl Fink come together to weave ethereal move- ment into the heart-wrenching story of a beautifiil love and an ugly war. Lighting and sound designers, Barry Browning and Sean Healey respectively, help a to create the fantastic world of Mary’s dreams. Hopkins and Bardwell show great promise as young profession- als, but it is clear they have yet to reach their full potentials. While Hopkins plays a surprisingly be- lievable Lieutenant F lowerdew in the battle scenes she creates with Charlie, her portrayal of Mary is inconsistent: sometimes danc- ing perfectly through the scenes’ rhythms and sometimes dragging enough to pull us towards her sleep. Bardwell brings 3 won— derful innocence to Charlie, but fails to give grace and meaning to F ink’s choreography. Ultimately, the team com— bines to create a worthwhile story, but one lacking in the magic of the Jungle Theater’s last show, “Shipwrecked.” This production is a good one, but not a great one. It may succeed at bringing dreamy movement and violent subject matter to an audience that would not seek out either, but it will not bring generations together for thought provoking fantasy as “Shipwrecked” did. Go see it to fall in love, to remember what war means for soldiers and the ones they leave behind, but don’t go if you’re strapped for money or time. “Mary’s Wedding” is lovely and horrific and poignant, but it’s not a must see. Mary 3‘ Wedding will be playing a! theJung/e Theater, located a! 295 / Lyndave Ave, Tuesdays through Sundays until Oct. 25th. Tickets are between 528 and $26 (rush: $1810 $26 [fowl/able). For more in]brmalion about shows or Iii-k- ets, Visi! WM‘wjung/etheulercom or call (612)-822— 7063. Show less
Page 4 Minneapolis, Minnesota OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS A note from President Pribenow.. A Pmident Paul C. Pn'bbenow I am grateful for the invita- tion from ECHO staff to offer some thoughts on the year ahead at Augsburg. First, let me say how great it is to have you all back on campus. We had a busy... Show morePage 4 Minneapolis, Minnesota OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS A note from President Pribenow.. A Pmident Paul C. Pn'bbenow I am grateful for the invita- tion from ECHO staff to offer some thoughts on the year ahead at Augsburg. First, let me say how great it is to have you all back on campus. We had a busy summer, but there is nothing like the beginning of a new academic year on campus with the joy and sense of anticipation that accompanies the return to classes. 1 have heard from many of you how energized and vital cam- pus life seems these past couple of weeks. A great entering class, strong student leadership. a sense of common purpose related to our sustainability month activities. fine launches for our fall athletics teams, and so much more all adds up to a great beginning for our 14lst year at Augsburg College. Welcome back. and thanks for all you are doing to make Augsburg even stronger! The year ahead will be busy. Of special note is our hosting of the 22nd annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum. the annual event that we share with our sister Norwegian- American colleges (Augustana— SD. Concordia, Luther and St. Olaf). We will welcome 2008 Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Marti Ahtisaari. to campus on March 5 and 6, 2010. along with a distin— guished group of leaders in peace- making from around the world, to celebrate former Finnish president Ahtisaari’s lifetime of diplomatic work in Kosovo. Namibia and Indonesia. Mark the dates now, and plan to be part of this special event that happens every five years on our campus. My work as president of Augsburg is organized around three overarching goals. The first “The Year Ahead” goal is to strength- en our governance processes, that is, how we work to— gether. make de- cisions and share information about important issues. I am so pleased that we have ex- panded student involvement in many important aspects of college governance. We have stu- dent representa- tives on my Lead- ership Council (a group of college staff and faculty who advise me on critical issues) and on Board of Regents commit- tees (especially those related to student life). I also meet regularly with student leaders who help me understand your perspectives on important college issues. I wel- come your ideas about ways we can continue to ensure that student voices are heard in shaping the col- lege’s policies and future direction. The second goal is to ensure that we have good and solid planning in place for all of our academic and administrative work. Many faculty and staff members are involved in crafting plans for academic programs. for budget and finances, for campus facilities. for marketing and outreach, and for all areas of college activity. All of our plans are grounded in our mission as a college g educating students for lives of significance and service in the world. I am especially pleased with the efforts of some of our col- leagues to develop long-range fi- nancial and human resource plans, offering us a blueprint for ensuring the future viability of Augsburg. Concrete results of this planning include our increased investment in student financial aid this year and increases in salaries for faculty and staff. These are results that run counter to what is happening at many other institutions and busi— nesses. Building and sustaining a planning culture at Augsburg doesn’t solve all of our problems. but it does help ensure that we are making decisions with the best information possible. with our core institutional values in mind, and with a horizon for decisions that is not limited to just this year. The final goal I pursue in my work is focused on building a stronger philanthropic culture at Augsburg. We are cultivating stronger relationships with indi- vidual and corporate supporters, raising money to fund our key priorities and telling the Augsburg story in persuasive ways to more and more people. At the moment, I am working hard with faculty, staff and board members to raise $50 million to help fund the new Center for Science, Business and Religion, the exciting new capital project that will bring all of our science programs (biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science and psychology) into state-of~the-art facilities along with the business and religion de— partments. It is an exciting idea to combine these disciplines in one building — honOring the relevance of the liberal arts for the 21st cen- tury — and it also is a project that will transform our campus, creat- ing a new quadrangle stretching from Memorial to Luther halls. After a tough year in the economy, we areoptimistic about the year ahead and are confident that we will announce several significant pledges to help build the Center for Science, Business and Religion. We hope to break ground in 2011 for this signature academic building for Augsburg. So what does all of this mean to you? There are lots of concrete ways in which these efforts have a major impact for you. Increased student financial aid, renovated campus facilities (like the great new A—Club Grille), better stu- dent support services, innovative academic programs like environ- mental studies, and the recently— launched “I-Term” (the learning community for 60 first-year stu- dents), additional opportunities for artistic and athletic activities (like the Augsburg Choir tour to China next May), and continuing to at- tract and retain remarkable faculty members are a few examples of how our work on governance, planning and philanthropy as a college community pays off for students. Equally important, though, is that these initiatives en-- sure that Augsburg remains strong and mission-focused for the firture ~ something 1 hope you all agree is an objective well worth pursuing. Favre Makes Vikings Better ROGER HUELSNITZ Opinions Editor You just can’t disagree with me here. and you had better not miss the Vikings-Packers game on Monday. October 5th. 1! will be legendary. earth shattering mania. Regardless of how you feel toward the sport of football, whether a fanatic or a weekend warrior, every man woman and child owes it to his or herself to witness this game. and watch it crash into the pages of sports history. So why is the game going to be so profound? Why is this going to be the best season for the Min- nesota Vikings ever? Well sir. it’s all beeause of one man. and one man only, ladies and gentlemen. Mr. Brett Favre. One of the biggest rivals in the NFL is the Packers versus Vikings. Favre was traded to the Green Bay Packers in 1992 as a first-round pick. For 17 seasons he continued to show his escalating ability to be one of the best, if not the best, quarterback in the NFL. Yes, at one point he was considered an aging. self-absorbed man who didn’t know when to throw in the towel, spending such short time with the Jets, and then jumping ofic to the Vikings; but things have changed. Now that the final decision has been made, and several games already played, Favre feels right at home. Part of what makes this player such a benchmark for our team,is that he’s filling our biggest hole, patching our biggest flaw: the posi- tion of being quarterback. For the most part the Vikings have a solid team. The offense is presently ranked 12th in the league, and No. 1 running the ball. The defense is ranked 11th, and 10th against the pass. What we’ve really needed most is someone who can throw the ball. and play it right, and now we have him. His record currently stands at 442 touchdowns. He also broke the record held by Dan Marino for the most passing yards with 61,665, as well as John Elway’s record of 148 wins by an NFL quarterback. Favre’s record currently stands. at 160 wins. He is the only NFL player to be named the Associated Press as the League’s most valuable player three times, in 95‘, 96’, and 1997. Let’s also not forget that Favre led the Packer’s to their first Super— bowl appearance in nearly three decades. They won, defeating the New England Patriots. The following year they went to the Superbowl again and lost to the Denver Bronco’s, but being in the Superbowl two years in a row, and winning one, friend, that ain’t bad. So the question remains, could this be the one? Could Favre bring us to the Super Bowl and grant us what we’ve been waiting for so long? Well, my fellow horned fans of purple and gold, I believe he can. Just look at what he did with the Packer’s. The man is Midas, and he has turned the Vikings uniform gold, into real gold. So here’s to a great season for the Minnesota Vikings, fans, you’ve waited a long time, but your time has come. So don your jersey and your cap, grab a pitcher and fill it with the most sparkling and exquisite of all frothy brews. Come have a drink with me, and let us witness as this Vikings season go into the pages of sports history. We’ll make our way to the big game and win, because wedeserve It. It’s about time. Welcome home, Brett. Over the past couple of weeks, I have so enjoyed hearing the sto- ries of our new and returning stu- dents, learning what is important to you and why you are at Augsburg. It means so much to me to spend time with you and be reminded why students are the center of our mission as a college. I am pleased that the echo staff has invited me to write this brief welcome and update. I also am happy to announce that the echo has invited me to write a regular column that will allow me to respond to questions or concerns you may have. Let’s call it “Ask President P.” All you need to do is send your questions to the echo at echo@augsburg.edu. Each issue I’ll choose a question or two and do my best to offer a response. I can’t promise that I can answer all your questions, but I’ll do my best to tell you what I know. And maybe we can use this opportunity not simply to answer questions but to have a conversation about our college and how we can make Augsburg an even better place to live, study and work. Here’s to a great academic year. Thanks for all you do to make Augsburg great! Do you like to write? Do you like to take pictures? Do you like to have fun? Write for the Echo! We are looking for writers in all sections. Please come to a meeting on any Friday dur- ing chapel in the Echo office, or email echo@ augsburg.edu for more information. Show less
Page 6 ARTS 8c ENTERTAINMENT Minneapolis, Minnesota "Batman: Arkham Asylum” (PC, PS3, Xbox360) DAVE MADSEN News Editor Too many times has every- one’s favorite caped crusader fallen victim to some very ma- niacal villains. Though widely unacknowledged. these evil-doers often transform Gotham‘s... Show morePage 6 ARTS 8c ENTERTAINMENT Minneapolis, Minnesota "Batman: Arkham Asylum” (PC, PS3, Xbox360) DAVE MADSEN News Editor Too many times has every- one’s favorite caped crusader fallen victim to some very ma- niacal villains. Though widely unacknowledged. these evil-doers often transform Gotham‘s hero into a one-dimensional cutout of a character. These criminals do not go by names like Joker. Scarecrow, or The Riddler; nor do these bad- dies don goofy-get ups and sport malevolent superpowers. Fans of the Dark Knight will agree that it is actually video game production companies that are often responsible for doing extreme injustice to the character of Batman. In most cases. the word Batman is ofien slapped onto a mediocre beat-‘em-up video- game in which a poorly rendered Bruce Wayne clumsily tackles his way through hours of boring gameplay. So. when Rocksteady Studios announced their plans to release an action—adventure video game based on the long-running DC Comic series. skepticism ran wild in the gaming community. However. if there is anything these past few weeks have taught us, it is that. when placed in the right hands, Batman can still rise out of pure darkness. Employing a liberal use of the Unreal Engine, “Batman: Arkham Asylum” looks as gritty and beefy as games like “Gears of War.” Obvious steroid abuse aside, the game is beautiful in that dark and disgusting kind of way. Each cor- ner of the out-of—control prison is meticulously crafied and familiar characters like Bane. Killer Croc. and Poison Ivy are treated to some entertaining. if not terrifying, face- lifts. Fans ofthe DC animated uni- verse will be delighted when they hear the voices of Kevin Conory, Mark Hamill, and Arleen Sorkin reprising their respective roles. So, with a bleak and foreboding atmosphere much like the in the city Rapture from “Bioshock,” “Arkham Asylum” looks and sounds very impressive, more like the recent Batman films rather than the Schumacher abominations. Sure, the Dark Knight’s cape swishes back and forth like visual poetry on screen; and yes, Hamill’s Joker is as creepy as ever. But the question remains: Does “Arkham Asylum” capture the true spirit of Batman while still providing an enjoyable gameplay experi- ence? In a word, yes. As gamers and comic readers can attest to, the Batman games of yesteryear have never done justice to the Dark Knight in his very three- dimensional appeal: a brutal mar— tial artist. a stealthy assassin, and a brilliant detective. The reason why “Arkham Asylum“ stands out above the heap of bat-crap is because this game addresses each of Bruce Wayne’s very fine-tuned abilities. For example, say our Caped Crusader finds himself in a room filled with over-grown thugs. An immature gamer’s first instinct would be to rush in, no-holds— barred, and take the villains in a round of hand-to-hand. If this is the case, thanks to the Freefiow combat system, gamers will find themselves sweeping legs and cracking ribs in no time. The fighting in “Arkham” feels fluid as well-timed blows and strategic maneuvers are greatly rewarded, much like in Ubisoft’s “Assassin’s Creed.” If the traditional beat ‘em up approach isn’t preferred, perhaps a stealth approach is in order. Thanks to a system of hiding behind walls and ducking into shadows, Batman can feel more like Sam Fisher from “Splinter Cell” as he picks off baddies one by one without being detected. However, if one wishes to embody the true spirit of the Bat, he or she can utilize the game’s detective mode and take down criminals us- ing a variety of gadgets including explosive gel, a grapnel gun with a line-launcher attachment, as well as the ever-popular Batarang. With everything mentioned above, surely this game is as flaw- less as Frank Miller’s adaptation of “Batman: Year One.” While the title of “Best Superhero Video Game” bears little weight, this game does stand alone as a very comparable over-the-shoulder adventure. However, even with a variety of gadgets, the in-game combat can only be pushed so far. By the time the short story has reached its conclusion, gamers may find themselves exhausted with the repetitive nature of very traditional game design. Speak- ing of which, the story feel a bit under-written as well. “Arkham,” though very well-executed in its visual presentation, somehow fails to capture a unique Batman story, even with writer Paul Dini on board. Despite some minor gripes, “Arkham Asylum" truly does break the mold of the beloved comic hero turned one-dimension- al brawler. Cynicism will ofien fall to the wayside when one feels the rush of tossing a well—aimed Bata- rang or single-handedly taking down the Joker’s army of crazed convicts. “Mary’s Wedding” an Underwhelming Success timeline and vague foreshadowing, the story is easily followed. Despite some weaknesses, this play suc- ceeds in a very poignant way. MOLLY BUDKE Stafl Writer Unlike most dream plays. “Mary‘s Wedding,” as produced by the Jungle Theater, draws its audience into a world we can believe as real. Despite being told we are the dreams taking place on the eve of her wedding. and despite that some of the things we will see are simply not true, Mary (Alayne Hopkins) and Charlie (Sam Bardwell) tell very real accounts of a life changed by World War I that draw us in like any well done realist drama would. Despite a backwards “Mary’s Wedding” reminds us that war used to be something different. and that it was within World War I that a major shift took place. The play also sug- gests that there was a time when love was something different, though the time of this change, whether sudden or gradual, is not necessarily something we see within the story. See MARY, page7 Q A-Llst Mum Tucson Adv-E Theater “Importance of Being Earnest” Guthrie Theater Through Nov. 8, wow (Sunday 7:00PM) 818 South 2nd St, Minneapolis Ticket prices vary wwwguthrietheatemrg Ragamala Dance/Cudamani “thee (Duality)” McGuire Theater Walker Art Center Thursday, Oct. 1, 8:00PM 1750 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis Tickets: $18 ($15 Walker members) www.walkera.rt.org Music West Bank Bash Roma Di Luna, Bill Geezy and the New Deal, Peter Ostroushko, Daddy Squeeze and Mudbug Zydeco Eagle’s Club 2507 E. 25th St, Minneapolis Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, 7:30PM $15 with student ID For tickets call or visit: West Bank School of Music 1813 S 6th St, 612-333-6651 www.westbankmusic.org GriZzly Bear First Avenue, Mainroom Wednesday, Sept. 30, 8:00PM 701 First Ave North, Minneapolis Tickets: $20 Advance, $22 Door www.first-avenue.com Film Film Retrospective: Coen Brothers Walker Art Center “Barton F ink" Wednesday, Sept. 30, 7:30PM “Fargo” _ Friday, Oct. 2, 7:30PM 1750 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis Tickets: $8 ($6 Walker members) www.walkerart.org Manhattan Short Film Festival Oak Street Cinema Saturday, Sept. 26, 7:30PM 309 Oak Street SE, Minneapolis Tickets: $8 www.mnfilmarts.org/oakstreet/calendar.php Would you like to have your band, production, or exhibit listed in the A-List? E-mail me at thoson@augsburg.edu with the name, date, time, location and cost of the event! I’d love to publish student contributions regarding any video game or album, old or new: I’d also like to especially encourage contributors this year to look locally. Minneapolis is a vibrant city; it is alive with art in virtually every direction you turn. There are galleries MALE TH on your doorsteps; festivals down the street. The city is literally teeming with authors, NA 0- filmmakers, poets, painters, actors, sculptors, dancers. and more. fl Not only that, but we are surrounded by art and entertainment right here at Augsburg. Am éEntmain' Attend the exhibitions. screenings, readings, plays and concerts that your fellow students "1thti ofier you, and let your reaction be heard! Local reviews are what help the art culture of our city and our school continue to breath, grow and flourish. These reviews not only offer the artists in our community a chance to see their work in the way their audience does, but it also encourages others to likewise attend and participate in things they might otherwise not think of. Above all, writing about local art simply says. “hi. I’m here, and I saw/felt/heard you.” For, afier all, arts and entertainment are neither an nor entertainment at all if they go unnoticed. It’s our responsibility to let our artists know that we see them. So, go out! Enjoy art as much as you can, whether it is global, national, local or from your backyard! Then. give a little back. Write about it; let people know what you thought. If you are interested in writing for A&E, and I hope you are, please contact me at thoson@ augsburg.edu. I would love to hear your what you have to say. Letter from the Editor: “Be Critical!” Calling all writers! The Arts & Entertainment section of the Echo has long been an outlet for both reviews and suggestions shared between fellow students, staff and faculty members. encouraging discourse over the songs we listen to. the films and plays we see, the galleries we visit. and any other forms of art or recreation we enjoy on a daily basis. This year. though, I would like to issue a special challenge to all Augsburg students: be critical! An open and honest dialogue between audience and artist is a vital part of what creates quality material in all art forms. Approach the art you encounter in your own life with all your senses alive. ready to take in every aesthetic aspect it has to offer you. Then, and this is the imponant part. write about what you think and send it to me. ~ The Arts & Entertainment section of the Echo needs your reviews! If you see a movre you like. or hate, write! If you read a book and have some thoughts. send them my way. Show less
Minneapolis, Minnesota Page 3 Men’s Soccer scores their way’to the top LAURA Mora Augsburg men’s soccer con- tinues to come out on top with a current national ranking of 14th. The coaches and players have high hopes for their ongoing season and the future of Augsburg soccer. Over the last couple... Show moreMinneapolis, Minnesota Page 3 Men’s Soccer scores their way’to the top LAURA Mora Augsburg men’s soccer con- tinues to come out on top with a current national ranking of 14th. The coaches and players have high hopes for their ongoing season and the future of Augsburg soccer. Over the last couple years the men’s soccer team has continued to progress and build. This season has been one of great success; hop- ing to come out on top of confer- ence is one of the team’s biggest goals. Greg Holker, head coach, has high expectations for the 2009 season, “We want to be in the-Top 25 at the end of the season, win the MIAC regular season title and playoff, and qualify for the NCAA Championships.” But in order to reach these impressive goals, the team has to remain focused during daily practices. Holker stresses the im- portance of training. A typical practice consists of, “ninety minutes of extremely dis— ciplined, organized hard work with a purpose. Training is consistently challenging,” states Holker. The team has to work together in practices and games in order to be successful. Pascual Venter, senior goal- keeper, recognizes the impor- tance of teamwork, “Training is very hard and intense everyday. If someone doesn’t work their hardest at practice there are con— sequences, like losing the next game.” ' The Minnesota intercollegiate athletic conference is competitive; success isn’t easily accomplished. Fierce competitors for men’s soc- cer include St. Thomas, Carleton, and Gustavus. But Auggie mental- ity must stay strong against every challenger. “I look at every team we play as our biggest competitor. If you only look forward to a couple games you lose track of the weaker teams that might snatch a win from us. It is important to play every game the same way,” Venter said. Being apart of a team is more than just speed, skills, and technique. It takes trust, commu- nication, and friendship in order to reach optimum. These young men aren’t just teammates; they have created and are maintaining a family environment. Venter adds, “Every day that I get to spend with my teammates is memorable; all of the guys are life-long friends.” The program has definitely grown and improved since Greg Holker began coaching. The fu- ture of Augsburg men’s soccer is promising. Van Hong, junior forward, comments on his team’s success, “It’s a great institution, and I want to continue to carry on the tradi- tions and leave a legacy.” Hong continues, “In the fu- ture, I hope that the incoming guys will carry the traditions and continue to leave a mark on this wonderful program.” If the enrichment of this pro— gram continues to grow Holker, plans to eventually win a NCAA championship. As for this season, there are eleven more regular-season games until the MIAC playoffs. Support the men’s soccer team by attend- ing games and watching their hard work pay off. Hong encourages fans to con- tinue to go to games. “Glancing at the packed stands at the last couple of games is an awesome feeling. I am so pleased and proud to be apart of this experience. There’ll be more to come, and hope to see all of you come back.” SPORTS Meet the sports editor... Ed Shehwen Hello All. My name is Edward Shehwen. and I will be the sports editor for The Echo this year. For those of you who don‘t know me I am sophomore here at Augsburg College. I am currently studying po- litical science and English. It was last spring that I first ex- pressed any real interest in writing. I brought myself to show up at the front door—step of The Echo and asked if there was any way I could be of ser— vice. I soon found myself writing for the former sports editor. Sam Smith. It was Sam who taught me not only how much fun I could have while writing for The Echo. but also how much I could learn in the process. This fall, Sam took over the duty as president of our student body. and I am very grateful to say that he left his formal presence at The Echo and title of Sports Editor to me. Ireach out to you, my fellow students tojoin me in keeping the sports section of our school newspaper as good as it has been in the past. I have high hopes for this section and feel that with your help we may even trump the good reputation this section has had in the past. I know that many of you love going to the sporting events on and off campus, as I have seen many of you there myself. So why not take it a step further? Why not combine your interests and talents into one and join The Echo in covering sports stories? Not to coerce you with incentives but not only do you get to see your name in the newspaper but you get to see your name on a monthly paycheck as well! On an honest note. we would love to have you on our team at The Echo. Not only would you benefit from it individually. but you get to be part of a very strong team with strong incentives to succeed in more ways than academics. If you have any questions. comments, or concerns feel free to contact me at shehwen@augsburg.edu. We hope to see you aboard The Echo! Regards, Edward Shehwen Sports Editor Show less
"Meet the 2009-201 0 Echo Editors, all sections The College’s Student—Produced Newspaper President Pribbenow describes "The Year Ahead,” page 4 Friday, September 25, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXV, Issue 1 350 Arrives at 22nd and Riverside DAVE Manan News Editor Environmentalist and... Show more"Meet the 2009-201 0 Echo Editors, all sections The College’s Student—Produced Newspaper President Pribbenow describes "The Year Ahead,” page 4 Friday, September 25, 2009 Minneapolis, Minnesota Volume CXV, Issue 1 350 Arrives at 22nd and Riverside DAVE Manan News Editor Environmentalist and author Bill McKibben spoke on Monday, Sept. 21 as part of the annual Ber- nard M. Christensen Symposium. As one of the founders of 350.0rg, McKibben’s lecture focused on a simple number that could prove to have a profound effect on our environment After giving a brief his- tory of the movement, McKibben explained the campaign as one that requires immediate action from diverse groups of communi- ties. Although the transition to a greener lifestyle may be difficult, McKibben argued that we still have time to act. Alter personally experiencing the environmental devastation in such countries as Bangladesh, McKibben began to organize creative marches and student-led protests to combat global climate 'change. As a long-time advocate of environmentalism, McKibben’s first work, The End of Nature, is still seen as one of the pioneer books published regarding global warming. Since leading the largest rally against global warming in the summer of 2006, McKibben has been a leader in a political move- ment to reduce the atmosphere‘s carbon concentration from the hazardous 385.92 to the acceptable 350 parts per million. Throughout his address, McKibben stressed that individu- als should begin to work imme- diately in order to develop com- munities aimed toward decreasing carbon emissions on a global scale. According to McKibben. such swift action is needed because the scientific understanding of global warming has dramatically changed within the past two years. “We have to be doing things right away,” McKibben said, “This problem cannot be solved one lightbulb at a time . . . not even one country at a time. We need a global movement.” McKibben’s 350 mantra provides a universally understood target for a world-wide community to work toward. Among the stron- gest members of the movement, McKibben reported, are young people who seem less apprehen- sive regarding political change. Adding to the environmental ben- efits and in the spirit of his book, Deep Economy, MckKibben said, “We are also going to see a shift to deeper and stronger communities than ever before.” Although he could not prom- ise that 350.0rg’s mission may ful- ly come to pass, McK- ibben reported that our time to act is running short. He emphasized that the path to such political and environ- mental change may be tough and wrenching, but he also reassured the community that the benefits would greatly outweigh the struggle. “Even if we can’t stop it, we can at least slow this down," McKibben said. Augsburg students can fithher support 350. org’s mission by par- ticipating in the final week of September’s Sustainabilty awareness month comes to Augsburg ‘ ANDREA SANOW Features Editor With the goal of changing habits, the organizers of Sustain- ability Awareness Month (SAM) set out to alter the way Augsburg students, faculty and staff interact with the energy and waste that they use and produce. Kjerstin Hagen, a senior at Augsburg College, was one of the main forces behind SAM, which took place this September. “The inspiration of SAM came from the success of the compost program,” she said. “Afier successfully implement- ing the program last fall, a group of students, faculty, and A’viands reps sat down and brainstormed as to how we could expand on this concept of implemental change.” To make change happen, Hagen and her fellow planners created events, posters and boards that would help educate Augsburg students on how to dispose of their ' garbage and to save energy. Along with education boards, the orga- nizer of SAM also played a hand in the inviting of Bill McKibben to speak on Monday. Sept. 2|. 2009 as part of the Christensen Symposium. With the month. almost over, Hagen is working hard to finish strong. “We also are now pulling of yet another dorm energy wars with the help of Mpirg," Hagen said. “We had another successful teach-in day; we had the green alternative vehicles on campus: we had a very successful waste separation game out in the quad; we have compost boards going up at every A’viands retailer, and we are striving towards a more sustainable approach to Augsburg athletic events.” Through the events of this month Hagen hopes to not only help students change the everyday little things in their life, but also the way they feel about their com- munity and each other. “I hope that a general aware- ness has been sparked in the minds of everyone on campus and also a willingness to take on this respon— sibility to improve our situation and take initiative because we are the generation that must," Hagen . said. To continue with the work of this month, Hagen hopes to start a new student group called the Student Association Board of Sus— tainability Advocates (SABSA) so that all student organizations on campus can come together and discuss more sustainable practices for their own events as well as make the campus, as a whole, more sustainable. But, until then, Hagen and her fellow student or- ganizers hope that the steps they have taken will con- tinue to make changes in student’s lives. “I hope that our weekly goals (for SAM) are met, more permanent changes are made in terms of campus habits, and that all members of the Augsburg community come together to share this vision,” Hagen said. “I also hope that people take away a sense of accomplishment if they did take this month seriously, and that they will contact me and help with the ongoing projects that will be happening until I graduate. I do not plan to stop here. This was merely the point at which we begin the fight to- wards holistic living, which is sustainability." For the final week of SAM, students, faculty and staff are invited to learn more about how Augsburg connects to the commu- nity through the Campus Kitchen Project and the community garden. Sustainability Awareness Month. In addition to efforts like the community garden and the West Bank Farmer’s Market, McKibben encouraged everyone to become involved with their surrounding communities and organize a rally for the ‘International Day of Ae- tion’ on Oct. 24. “It‘s rare in this world that anyone can be able to get up in the morning and think to them- selves, ‘I’m doing the single most important thing I can possibly ac- complish,” McKibben said while referring to the responsibility each of us has as members of our rap- idly decaying environment. “For those of us who can, it's in some ways a burden, but in more ways it‘s a great, great pleasure.“ Students fight the flu SARA KLEMP Stafl Writer Staff members at Augsburg are preparing for the continuing spread of the H1N1 and seasonal flu viruses by providing students and faculty with resources to pre- vent the viruses, including updates on local cases, advice on what to do if one catches H 1 N] or seasonal flu as well as tips on how to avoid getting sick. According to a letter from President Pribbenow issued on Sept. 10, seven Augsburg students have reported flu~like symptoms, yet none of these cases were found to be the H1N1 virus. Though it seems as ifwe have avoided the flu thus far. there have been more than a few cases reported close to the college. Nearby at the University of Minn. approximately 60 cases have been reported to university staff. With the possibly of more students catching and spreading the flu, Augsburg is making efforts to protect students from getting sick. To help prepare students for the flu season, Augsburg is of- fering guidance on what to do if one does comes down with the illness. In a recent letter via email to students, Ann Garvey. Augs— burg’s Vice President of Student Affairs, relays recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control, CDC, about what students should do if one contracts Influenza—Like Illness, lLl. Symptoms oflLl in- clude having a fever over lOO—de— grees along with a cough and sore throat. lfthis occurs, students are asked to self—isolate for at least 24 hours after the fever and other flu symptoms subside without using fever-subsiding medications. Selt- isolation suggests staying away from people unless to receive medical attention or for necessi- ties. Generally, self-isolation lasts about 3 to 5 days, and, ifpossible. students should try to retum home while recovering. Also, Garvey adds that all professors are aware of these recommendations and will try to be accommodating if one cannot attend class due to illness. Besides giving advice on what to do if flu—like symptoms arise, Garvey also reminds students on ways to prevent catching thc flu. Some of these tips include frequent hand washing and prac- ticing healthy habits like getting enough sleep, practicing good nu— trition and staying well—hydrated. Garvey also reminds students to cover one‘s mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid touching one’s eyes or mouth and to avoid coming in close contact with sick people. Another way that Augsburg is helping students prevent the spread of flu is by uttering sca- sonal flu vaccinations on Wednes- day, Oct. 7 from “:00 am. to 4:00 pm. in the Riverside Room. located in the Christensen Center. The vaccinations will cost $25 for students, faculty and stafl‘. Show less
Friday, Septemr 25, 20 editor... what’s on your mind! Meet the Opinions- Roger Huelsnitz Hello my fellow Auggie afliliates, it’s that time of year again, and I’m Roger Huelsnitz, your new opinions editor. If you would like to have your voice heard, or rather, scribbled down in print onto the royal... Show moreFriday, Septemr 25, 20 editor... what’s on your mind! Meet the Opinions- Roger Huelsnitz Hello my fellow Auggie afliliates, it’s that time of year again, and I’m Roger Huelsnitz, your new opinions editor. If you would like to have your voice heard, or rather, scribbled down in print onto the royal pages of the Augsburg Echo newspaper, then send me an e-mail! (huelsnir@augsburg.edu) If you have an opinion about something, whether it be on campus, or a recent news story that’s controversial, whatever it might be,scribble down about 500 words and send it to me. Of course we’re looking for thoughtful quotes and passages, nothing of the crap vari- ety, but everyone is welcome to write in and test my scrutiny towards your writing abilities. Really though, we want to hear from any or all of you. If you would like to con- tribute more than dollars to your Augsburg experience,writing a section in the echo is a great way to do it! So come on down, step into my orifice, and let everyone at Augsburg know A Presidential Address SAM SMITH Contributor Afier having spent an excru- ciatingly long year as the Echo’s sports editor, it’s quite nice to be able to submit something to the paper without being forced to. My name, as the byline suggests, is Sam Smith, and this year I have the privilege of serving as the day student body president here at Augsburg. I’m thankful to those of you who participated in the elections last April and I’m glad there was some healthy competition. I want to briefly update you on what the Day Student Government has been up to, and where we plan to go this year. First, we have a bumper crop (ten) of first-year candidates running for only four open spots. Voting starts today, so do your duty and vote. It’s incredibly easy to do, although you don’t get a little red sticker that says “I voted”. Simply go online and log into AugNet, and there you are. I’m confident that these new additions to our Senate will do great things. Second, Day Student Gov- ernment is in charge of funding and legitimizing all other student organizations. This year already, we have added three new student orgs: Swing Dance Club, a Pre- Law Society, and the Muslim Student Association. Look for more information as these groups begin to ramp up their activities. Third, and perhaps most importantly, October 24th is the 350.org Day of Action, and Day Student Government is going to do everything in our power to make sure that Augsburg’s action is a day to remember. Seeing Bill McKibben at the Christensen Symposium on Monday night has energized us and made us believe that we can do something really special. You’ll hear more as the big day gets closer, but mark the 24th on your calendar. Lastly, a little note about the student activity fee. Every single day student at Augsburg pays $90 a semester as part of tuition. That fee goes to Day Student Government, and from there we distribute it among the variOus student organizations at Augs- burg. Now, if you’re an involved student, someone who seeks out opportunities at Augsburg and attends the myriad events and opportunities that other students provide, you are absolutely getting your money’s worth. Those students who choose not to attend or get involved at all, even when opportunity is star— ing them in the face, are giving their money away. I want to urge all students at Augsburg to get more for their dollar; go to one student-run event a week, and you will have most certainly recouped that $180 a year. We in Day Student Govem- ment see it as one of our respon- sibilities to make sure that there is every opportunity for students to get involved, but we cannot force you to attend anything. It is incumbent in you to take a little initiative. Thanks for your time, and have a great semester. Minneapolis, Minnesota Page 5 OPINIONS/ EDITORIALS Meet the Editors, Molly and Becki Co-Editors—in-Chief Happy new school year every- one! As editors of the Echo for the 2009- 2010 school year, we want to outline our plans for the Echo this year. The first thing we’re sure you noticed is that the Echo is alittle smaller this week than in the past. Because of decreased writing sub— missions in the past two years, we are cutting the size of the paper from 12 pages to eight and focusing on printing quality articles. Because of the overall decrease in pages, some of the sections are changing. Sports will now be one page long instead of two, and soon the Features and Arts and Entertain- ment sections will be combined into one three-page long Variety section. We also feel it would be helpful to restate the purpose of the student press. ' As the college’s student newspa— per, the Echo is a forum for discus- sion of campus issues and is open to contributions from any students, staff and faculty. Our primary goal is to provide a fair and unbiased view of news stories that promote journalistic integrity and are of value to the Augsburg community. Before anything else, the Echo’s responsibility is to inform. We are not responsible for publishing creative writing, although we may decide to do so at our discretion. While we are happy to print items of newsworthy quality that feature any department or group on campus, we cannot in good conscience print an item that is purely promotional. On campus organizations and depart- ments are welcome to advertise at no cost for those purposes. We cannot print anonymous piec- es, unless there is a reason regarding serious safety risk to the individual writing the article. Ifyou are willing to publish an opinion publicly, you must also be willing to stand behind it with your name. We encourage people from all areas of the campus- students, faculty, staff, Republicans, Liber- als, Libertarians, ASAC members, music performers, and many, many more- to contribute to the paper. There are many ways to express your unique voice and publish in the Echo, including taking photos. draw- ing editorial cartoons, and writing articles, of course. The more varied our contributions are, the better the quality our paper can be. Lastly, we would like to encour- age all of you to submit comments. We are always looking for ways to improve this paper, and one of the main ways we do so is by listen— ing to your opinions. If you would like to see an article or feature on a certain topic, submit an opinion on a subject or share criticism or praise for something we have printed or changed, please do not hesitate to tell any of us. Thanks very much and have a great year! Molly Ehling and Becki lverson Wash your hands ROGER HUELSNITZ Opinions Editor Ooh! Have you heard the lat- est? Little Betsy just turned into a big fat swine. Oh wait, she just has HlNl, never mind. You know it’s amazing, all this hubbub about cleanliness,washing hands and such. It’s funny how it takes the loss of lives to fi— nally move people in the right and proper direction. It takes tragedy to lead us to decency because we are tragically indecent. In case you dullards haven't figured out what I’m talking about, it’s the sudden emphasis we’re putting on keeping ourselves clean afier the devastation this virus has caused. I find it very interesting that when I am in the bathroom on campus, folks who previously didn’t wash their hands after a bowel movement now suddenly do. I’m just curious why it took a threat to their lives to bring the conclusion upon them that rubbing their little hands together with bubbles is actually a good idea! The dispenser isn’t there just to see how many times you can pump it. You actually need to utilize the gooey stuff that it excretes. Who would have thought? I pride myself on the fact that I always wash my hands after almost everything that I do. Why am I so boastful about how many times I can interlace my fingers with the soapy matter you might ask? Because I know there are a plethora of people who just don’t do it! Be careful about who you’re shaking hands with. Many times I’ve literally seen guys leaving the bathroom straight from the urinal, only to then hold their girlfriend’s hand and give her a kiss, mmm yummy! I’ve been in public bathrooms where a guy deliberately didn‘t wash his hands in front of every- one to make a statement. Now what the hell kind of statement are you trying to make by performing that move. The only detail you’re portraying to me at that moment is that number one: you have ab- solutely no class, two: you want to be known unanimously as a freak, and three: you have no de— sire to ever become intimate with anyone in your entire life. Now is that the image that any grown man or woman wants to carry around? Well, apparently it is. We all commingle. and spit, and silently flatulate next to one another on a daily basis. so the least we can do for everyone around us is to keep our append— ages clean. I don‘t mean taking two showers a day, I’m not talking obsessive-compulsive here, but I think many people are misunder— standing the meaning of general cleanliness. Hand—washing is a top priority; it‘s not an option. If you don’t want to confomi to that standard,stay home in your PJ‘s and eat fruit loops in your own filth, because I don’t want you here. So let’s all be on the same page, shall we? It‘s a matter of respect really, it’s the silver rule. Oh, what? You've never heard of the silver rule? Well shame on you. It comes in second place right un— der the golden rule. It says: WASH YOUR FREAKIN’ HANDS! Show less
Page 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota Meet the news editor... Dave Madsen Greetings, True Believers! I’m Dave Madsen and I will be serving as your News Editor for the Fall semester of the 2009-10 school year. I am an English major with an emphasis in Media Writing; as if that were not enough, I also... Show morePage 2 NEWS Minneapolis, Minnesota Meet the news editor... Dave Madsen Greetings, True Believers! I’m Dave Madsen and I will be serving as your News Editor for the Fall semester of the 2009-10 school year. I am an English major with an emphasis in Media Writing; as if that were not enough, I also plan to minor in Religion and Literature, Language and Theory. When I’m not collecting and editing stories for the Echo, I can be found cooking up a storm in the kitchen. My other hobbies include anything outdoorsy, the original Star Wars trilogy, and Frank Zappa. As News Editor, I promise to give my best effort to ensure that Augsburg’s community only receives the most fair and unbiased news stories submitted. If you have an interest in current events, or just enjoy writing, please feel free to contact me at madsend@augsburg.edu for more information on contributing to the section. ‘Nuff said. Augsburg College Echo Fall 2009 Staff Editors—in-Chief News Miter Molly Ehling Dave Madsen Becki Iverson Opinions/Editorials Editor Roger Huelsnitz Sports Editor Ed Shehwen ASCE Editor Malena Thoson Features Editor Andrea Sanow Layout Editors Molly Ehling Sergio Monterrubio Photo Editor Kendra Christiansen Faculty Adviser Boyd Koehler Advertising Manager Sarah Gillund 731 215: Avenue 5, CB 148 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454 Tips - echotips@gmail.com Fax — (612) 330—1666 E-mail -— echo@augsburg.edu Phone — (612) 330—1102 The Augsburg Echo is published each Friday — except during vacation periods and holidays — by the students of Augsburg College. Opinions expressed in the Echo are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the supporting staff. administration, faculty. alumni/ac or the remainder of the students. The Echo does not necessarily promote the products or services it advertises. Advertisements can be placed in the Echo by contacting the advertising manager. Submissions 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 information. All submissions become the property of the Echo and are subject to revision. 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 appropriate. Printed by Print Group Midwest on recycled paper. l-term receives praise ALEX STOIAKEN Stafi' Writer Starting this fall semester, Augsburg introduced a new and unique freshman program called I-Term, also called “Fate of the Earth 101 .” Integrating Sociology, History, Religion, and English, this course focuses on global issues such as food, fuel, media, and consumption. Not only are these courses combined, but, unlike a traditional classroom setting, tests and grades are virtually non-existent. One might ask, “How is this possible?" Taught by five experienced profes- sors, Colin Irvine, Lori Hale, Lars Christiansen, Phillip Adamo, and Robert Cowgill, some eyebrows have been raised regarding the class. According to English pro- fessor Bob Cowgill, the idea be- hind this program took two years of planning to flourish. The group of selected profes- sors attended a conference at Ever- green State College in Washington, a school that strictly focuses on learning community-based teach- ing to further prepare for I-Term. Other colleges, such as Sara Law- rence College of Bronxville, New York have become involved in this revolutionary teaching movement as well. When asked about the ideas and themes of food, fuel, media and consumption following the course, Sociology professor Lars Christiansen said, “Students liked the idea of coming together around a single question, and these were topics that interested them.” The topics of this course are controversial and concern global issues that will take years to take effect and transform. As professor Cowgill stated, “One student at a time, one action at a time. We can’t all be masters of the universe.” Christiansen commented on the topic of the non-traditional teaching style of the course. “There’s more opportunity for faculty to interact with the stu- dents, and different point-of-views can come together,” he said. Professor Cowgill said, “It helps show relationships between disciplines, and is an attempt to pull together as a community.” When asked students how he felt about the concept of no grades or tests, freshman Cory Hasselstrom said, “It eases my mind to know that I don’t have to worry about getting the grade, and that the teachers are helping you improve, rather than just putting a letter down.” Regarding any possible draw- backs to the program, Hasselstrom said, “This is the kind of program I would want, there are no flaws.” Augsburg students seem very positive and excited about the program. However, the profes- sors seemed more reserved with their opinions until further into the semester. “We’re like pioneers, we don’t really know where we’re headed,” Cowgill said. Not much may be known about the program’s success as of yet, but prospects are nonetheless high. CCHP offers mental health screenings Center for Counseling and Health Promotion In conjunction with National Depression and Anxiety Screening Day, the Center for Counseling and Health Promotion will offer free mental health screenings on Thursday, Oct 8 from 11 am. to 2:30 pm. Anyone with concerns or questions about depression, anxi- ety, or stress is invited to stop in for a free, anonymous, and confi- dential “mental health check-up.” No appointment is necessary. “Depression among college students is more common than most think, and it’s quite treat- able,” said Beth Carlson, Ph.D., L.P., Assistant Director of CCHP. The assessment takes about 10 minutes, Carlson said, and is very effective in helping students identify symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other concerns that can affect their life, happiness and academic performance. A coun- selor will meet with students one- on—one to help them understand the results of their questionnaire and provide help and resources, she said. More than 28 percent of college students experience de- pression that interferes with their daily activities, according to The Centers for Disease Control. Re- flecting this national trend, depres- sion and anxiety are consistently the most common concerns of students seeking services at CCHP, said Nancy Guilbeault, PhD, LP, Director of C CHP. There is a link between stu- dent health and student success. “Depression and anxiety definitively affect academic per- formance. But they are treatable,” stressed Guilbeault. “The good news is we can do something about it! It‘s important for students to know they are not alone and that help is available,” The likelihood of a college student suffering depression has doubled in the last two decades, according to Richard Kadison, MD., in his book College of the Overwhelmed. One in 10 students will seriously consider suicide, he notes. Students experiencing de- pression often describe feeling overwhelmed, sad, stressed, ir- ritable, or empty. They might cry frequently, sometimes for no apparent reason. Other times, students with depression feel excessively lonely, or depleted of energy and motivation, even for things that used to be fun. It’s hard to concentrate, and they might not even feel like seeing friends. They might wonder what’s wrong with them, feel worthless or guilty, or even wonder ‘ifit’s all worth it’. Sometimes, however, students can excel at “putting on a happy face” even as they feel miserable inside. “It’s not always easy to tell if someone is depressed by what’s going on on the outside,” said Carlson. “Depression can look lots of different ways. For some people, it does look like the classic depression. You literally can’t get yourself out of bed in the morning, you feel there’s no point to getting out of bed, and you feel completely hopeless about any of the bad stuff in your life ever changing.” But for some people, depres- sion can look much different. “Maybe you are just a lot less social than usual or seem kind of ‘shut-down’,” Carlson noted, “Or maybe friends notice you are reacting really extremely when the slightest thing goes wrong.” Other students might also try to avoid their sad, angry, or numb feelings by playing video games all night, totally avoiding homework, not going to classes, or going on huge spending-sprees which they can’t afford. “Sometimes people who are depressed will eat way more food than they really need just to try to feel better,” Carlson said. Some students self-medicate with alcohol. “Some students will drink to excess to cope with emotional problems,” noted Juneal Colbum-Lay, Health Educator at CCHP. Some psychological traits such as impulsiveness, low self- esteem, and a need for approval can underlie both drinking and depression, she noted. “Alcohol abuse——whether diagnosed or not— -and alcoholism can worsen exist- ing conditions such as depression or induce new problems such as serious memory loss or anxiety,” she said. Everyone at CCHP stressed that help is available. Many stu- dents find great relief in meeting one-on-one with a counselor to talk about their stresses or con- cerns. ‘tell their story’, or create an action plan. Commonf problems discussed in confidential counsel- ing include anxiety, depression. mood swings, grief and loss, re- lationships, family, eating, body image, academics, and many oth- ers. When appropriate, counselors can refer students for a medical evaluation for anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication. CCHP always strives to help students in ways that fit within their own cultural identity. Of course, everyone feels sad or down from time to time. Depression is a matter of extremes, and self-care in times of stress is important. CCHP also supports stress prevention. Many students simply stop in at the Center for Counsel- ing and Health Promotion at 628 let Ave. to enjoy a few quiet moments in the inviting and relax- ing space, or to treat themselves to the massage chair and a bit of calming music. Other students find that CCHP’s on-going yoga ses- sions help them relax, center, and concentrate. Additional resources are available through CCHP’s website. 2 '3‘. Show less