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SPIN Theater presents Haunted Doll’s House
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Understanding the problems of cultural appropriation
Luther Swim and Dive hosts Eau Claire in first home meet
COLLEGE
LUTHER “Let the chips fall where they may.”
VOLUME 140, NO. 7 • EST. 1884
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Paul Gardner set to retire
Reformation Sunday gathers Decorah congregations
Professor of Political Science Paul Gardner MARTIN DONOVAN STAFF WRITER Professor of Political Science Paul Gardner will retire after the 2017 academic year. This fall semester will be Gardner’s last semester on Luther’s campus as he is leading a semester-long course in Malta next spring. Gardner has taught at Luther for 32 years. “A lot of people are retiring because they are sick, tired, or bored with what they are doing,” Gardner said. “That is not it for me at all. I’m really being pulled out by other things that I want to do, as opposed to being pushed out by being bored.” While Gardner does not have any definite plans after retiring, he hopes to continue teaching in Europe. Gardner applied to the Core Fulbright Scholars Program to teach a course that compares American and Romanian democracies as well as a course that analyzes the U.S.’s role in world politics. Gardner is interested in teaching in Romania because he has not been to that region of the world. GARDNER| PAGE 4
Pastor April Ulrich Larson became the first female bishop in the ELCA.
GILLIAN KLEIN STAFF WRITER Luther commemorated the 500th anniversary of the Reformation with a joint worship service with other Evangelical Lutheran Church of America [ELCA] churches from the Decorah community on Sunday, Oct. 29 in the Center for Faith and Life [CFL]. aThe commemoration service was based on Martin Luther’s German Mass, but also featured original compositions for the Reformation celebration performed by combined Luther choirs and Mass/Children’s choirs from the Decorah community. According to College Pastor Mike Blair. Luther College’s ties to Martin Luther’s messages about faith and life are the primary reason for commemorating the Reformation. “We commemorate the Reformation because it can summon the best of what we [Luther community] envision for ourselves as a community,”
Gillian Klein (‘20) I Chips
Blair said. “We also commemorate it because we have things we need to unlearn and make amends to.” Oct. 31, 2017 marks the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther nailing his ninety-five theses to the door of Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. Luther reinterpreted the Gospel message, stating that human beings do not earn their salvation but that God grants salvation to all those who believe. Sunday’s worship service commemorated the creation of Lutheranism. Approximately 300 Luther students and community members attended the worship service. The ELCA congregations in attendance included First Lutheran Church, Glenwood Lutheran, Canoe Ridge Lutheran, Decorah Lutheran, Good Shepherd Lutheran, and Luther’s own College Student Congregation. The service started with Pablo Gómez Estévez’s (‘18) composition “Solo Fide,” performed by an ensemble of Luther musicians.
REFORMATION| PAGE 4
“What the Health” documentary raises questions
Kip Andersen engages in conversation with attendees after delivering a lecture about diet. Karl Nyckelmoe (‘18) | Chips
KARL NYCKLEMOE STAFF WRITER Campus Programming and the Center for Ethics and Public Engagement (CEPE) sponsored a screening of the documentary “What the Health” and a lecture delivered by the director of the documentary Kip Andersen on Oct. 24. The lecture, which touched on the impact of corporations and animal products on our health, raised some questions of legitimacy from audience members. The event was attended by students, faculty, staff, and Decorah community members. Andersen began by restating the themes and evidence within his documentary and elaborating on things the documentary left out. The documentary focused on the negative health effects of eating animal products
such as meat, dairy, and eggs, and the positive health benefits of eating “whole foods” in a vegan diet. Andersen also argued that the links between animal products, adverse health effects, and environmental impacts are not publicized due to the tactics of large corporations. Such tactics, Andersen argued, include intense marketing manipulation, like the slogan ‘Got Milk?’ and the sponsorship of studies linking animal products with healthy food. “A lot of people don’t realize that the things they know [about diet and health] have been manipulated by industry and have been taught to us for generations through health organizations and schooling,” Andersen said in an interview before the event. HEALTH | PAGE 4
NEWS
PAGE 2 NOV. 2, 2017
NEWS EDITORS: KATRINA MEYER & ANA LÓPEZ
Luther alums offer leadership advice
College Ministries begin new "Healing Services" ANTHONY RAMÓN PÉREZ SOTO STAFF WRITER
Anjela A. Shutts ('93) connects with Cassidy Kahl ('21) at the reception following the discussion. Elizabeth Hand (‘21) | Chips
ELIZABETH HAND STAFF WRITER Four Luther alums Wendy Davidson (‘92), Angela A. Shutts (‘93), Kari Lyle (‘94), and Shannon Duval (‘95) participated in a panel discussion titled “Women as Leaders: Luther Alumnae Perspectives on Talent, Power, and Ethics.” They discussed women in leadership and their experiences in high-stakes leadership roles. Professor of Accounting and Management Ramona Nelson (‘75) has taught in the economic and business department since 1990. She chose to invite these women to Luther because of their commitment to learning, questioning, and taking on challenges. Nelson feels all things can be accredited to a liberal arts education. During the discussion each panel member shared information about their personal experiences in leadership. They also offered life advice to attendees. Davidson had a long career with Tyson foods and is currently the president of Kellogg Specialty Channels in North America. She encouraged current students not only to be engaged with professors on campus, but also peers as well. She stressed the
importance of taking advantage of opportunities when they present themselves. “Have a seat at the table,” Davidson said. “But don’t just sit there, make an impact by using [your seat].” Lyle is the managing director of the chief technology office for Deloitte Tax. She talked about flexibility in her experiences. Lyle said she had never planned on working in technology while studying at Luther, but an open mind led her toward a rewarding career. “Be curious and trust your instincts, but know the consequences of the decisions you are making,” Lyle said. In terms of her leadership style, Lyle urged students to understand the people that they are leading. During an interview prior to the discussion, Duval shared how her college experiences helped prepare her for various leadership positions within the company. She credits her experiences in student senate, Nordic choir, and Chips with her ability to communicate well with others in the workplace. “The nurturing of mind, body, and spirit was really foundational,” Duval said. “The outside-of-classroom application of Chips allowed a great spirit of discourse and allowed me to communicate
well with a diverse set of people.” During the discussion, Duval encouraged students to appreciate Luther as a family. She described her experience as a 'balanced environment,' which taught her to push past her boundaries.
"It is an institutional hug to support you and to give you a kick to know that you can do better,” Duval said. “Swing for the fences, be bold, and believe in yourself because you are welltrained here. There were a lot of people who cared about me and wanted me to be successful and learn, and I feel that to this day. No matter how far you go, the embrace of the Luther family is still there.” For some of the women on the panel, the opportunity to speak to up-and-coming leaders brought them full circle to when they sat listening to a panel of women leaders 25 years ago. Attendee Cassidy Kahl (‘21) is an aspiring law student. She appreciated the chance to hear and meet accomplished alumns and witness the great connections that can be made at Luther. “The best advice was to keep striving for what you want, even if those around you tell you that you can’t,” Kahl said. “The four years of hard work and stress will be worth it because these women have shown me what great things you can accomplish.”
College Ministries will give a series of “Healing Services” on Nov. 5, 12, and 19. These services will incorporate music written by Ben Larson (‘06) a religion major who died in the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Ben’s parents April Ulring Larson and Judd Larson, who was an interim pastor at Luther, have been closely involved with the development of the “Healing Services” and are hopeful about the positive effect that they can have on the Luther community. “It started with the service ‘Behold I Make All Things New,’ which is a worship service Ben wrote while he was a student of seminary,” Judd Larson said. “We took 11 out of his 120 songs and asked Hans Peterson ('90) to arrange these songs so that they could be used in a worship setting.” According to April Ulring Larson, Ben was committed to connecting with people and engaging in life-changing experiences through service. She believes that this healing service is much-needed and hopes that Ben’s music will facilitate the path of healing. “We are in need of a lot of healing in our personal lives and in our communities,” April Ulring Larson said. “This is a wonderful time not just to have healing services in the evening, but to have a whole communion and liturgy that focuses on healing.” Ben’s wife, Renee Larson, made Ben’s music available for free, which was his dream. For College Pastor Mike Blair, these healing services aim to preserve Ben’s legacy through a combination of liturgy and songs. “This new liturgy has music that Ben Larson wrote, and his family, along with Peterson, and Lutheran Pastor Susan Priu, developed,” Blair said. “This is a service of healing called ‘Mourning Into Dancing.’ There are songs of Ben's that are particularly related to healing, wellbeing and wholeness and there are songs that we can switch in for those Sundays because they would fit better with the reading of that day.” Blair hopes that the Luther community will gather to experience a different kind of service that provides them with the opportunity to find peace through Ben’s songs. He also hopes that this causes a Luther's sense of community to grow. “We are all supporting each other and we all struggle with different things,” Blair said. “[These services] are a way to say that we can name our brokenness and struggle together in community and that we accept and encourage one another. A service like this invites us to have some breathing space in our lives and to give thanks and gratitude for the gifts of our bodies, health and wellbeing.” April Urling Larson and Judd Larson said that they are happy to preserve Ben’s legacy through the music he wrote during his lifespan and invite the Luther Community to join them in keeping Ben’s music of healing alive. “What we are hoping is that it will bring healing in their lives and also for the communities,” April Ulring Larson said. “If there is any Luther student who would like to arrange any of Ben’s songs into a choral piece, I would be very interested in a conversation with them.” The services will continue to take place once a month after Thanksgiving break.
Ben Larson ('06).
Photo courtesy of luther.edu
NEWS
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NEWS EDITORS: KATRINA MEYER & ANA LÓPEZ
Scott hosts Women of Color Reception Dinner
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
WEATHER THURSDAY AM Showers
49/29 FRIDAY Cloudy
44/35 SATURDAY AM light rain
46/41 Interim Dean for Institutional Equity and Inclusion Lisa Scott delivers a speech during the Women of Color Reception Dinner on Oct. 25. Jorge Contreras (‘20) | Chips
JORGE CONTRERAS STAFF WRITER Interim Dean for Institutional Equity and Inclusion Lisa Scott organized a reception dinner for women of color on Oct. 25. Scott welcomed more than 25 students, faculty, and staff identifying as women of color to share in food and conversation in Peace Dining Room. Scott’s main goal for the session was to encourage women of color to unite and seek out leadership roles by giving information about how to do so. Students were seated at tables of eight to encourage conversation with other women of color on campus. Scott circled around the room and introduced herself to students while they ate dinner before standing up at the front to present a short speech. In her speech, she talked about her personal experiences in working with women of color. “My very first job in higher education was as a director of a women of color program,” Scott said in her speech. “I was floored that somebody was going to pay me to work with women of color. I thought it was the coolest thing ever. It was some of the best six and a half years of my entire career and it laid the foundation and the groundwork for the work that I do now.” Scott was grateful to host this event for the students and encouraged them to continue meeting in the future. “I’m hoping that this is not the last gathering,” Scott said. “I’m hoping that among you, you can think about ways of supporting each other.” After Scott’s welcoming words, each of the students introduced themselves by sharing their name, year at Luther, nationality, and major. “One of my interests is leadership,” Scott said. “We are in a place where there are not a lot of faculty of color, so how do we bring that here?” Scott also mentioned how she and staff from other departments on campus are working towards helping women of color succeed at Luther. “My colleagues and I will be meeting with women alums next week and in the coming months,” Scott said “We will have conversations about mentoring, internships, travel abroad, and how we bring those resources to bear on our success.” Scott then showed a TED talk titled “It’s About Time to Value Young Women of Color in Leadership” by Brittany Packnett to help students realize the importance of gathering in a community. “Do not dim your voices, do not take the easy way,” Scott said. “Think about how to walk with your heads up on campus and in a larger society. You are determined to be heard, determined to be seen. I’ll help you all to think about how you can come together in community.” Attendee Fezile Mnisi (‘20) felt encouraged by Scott’s
words and said that she appreciates having her on campus. “I feel Luther was in a place where it was negligent of our emotional needs and didn't really have a structure that we can rely on,” Mnisi said. “Lisa Scott's work is beneficial to the community because we will have a more positive environment with better-supported women of color.” Attendee Khwanhatai Kongkapetch (‘20) agreed with Mnisiadding that Scott is helping them not only in their college life but also when thinking about the future. “Sometimes we focus a lot on how to get things done on time but not really about who we want to become in the future,” Kongkapetch said. “[Scott] reminds us that there are still a lot of things we could accomplish in our lives. Scott is an amazing woman. If there’s anything else that Luther needs, it is definitely to have more people like Lisa Scott.” The reception ended with a session of group photos. Scott encourages everyone to contact her at lisascott@luther.edu or the Diversity Center located in the Union in for more information.
SUNDAY Showers
58/40 MONDAY AM showers
45/31 TUESDAY Sunny
41/27 WEDNESDAY Partly Cloudy
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THURSDAY Mostly cloudy
42/30 Janet Irankunda ('19) introduces herself to the attendees at the Women of Color Reception Dinner. Jorge Contreras (‘20) | Chips
Icons designed by Freepik from Flaticon.
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NEWS
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017
NEWS EDITORS: KATRINA MEYER & ANA LÓPEZ
Life Outside Luther Manafort pleads 'not guilty' to charges in the Russia investigation Paul Manafort and another Trump aide, Rick Gates, were charged with money laundering as a part of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. A third Trump advisor, George Papadopolous, pled guilty to lying to the FBI during Mueller's investigation. All three men were arraigned in court in Washington on Monday, but Manafort and Gates pled "not guilty." Federal Judge blocks Trump's transgender military ban Transgender service members accused Trump of violating their constitutional rights by not letting them serve in the armed forces. Trump announced the ban in July, and members of the armed forces sued in August. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly granted them an injunction which blocks the implementation of the order until the case is resolved. Facebook estimates that 126 million Americans have seen Russian-linked posts Facebook released information on Monday indicating that Russianbased operatives created 80,000 political posts in hopes of swaying the outcome of the 2016 presidential election. Facebook also estimates that 126 million Americans saw these posts. This disclosure, which includes nearly half of the votingage population in the United States, indicates a much higher level of exposure than any previous estimates. Apple preparing for a record number of sales for new iPhone X Despite early reports that Apple's stock would drop with the new iPhone because of its expensive price, Apple is now anticipating a record number of sales when the phone becomes available in November. Apple's stock is rising again based off these reports, despite concern about the lack of component supplies that initially backed up the release of the iPhone X. U.S. captures a suspected Benghazi attack militant U.S. forces captured a militant on Monday that they suspect played a role in the attacks on the American embassy in Benghazi on Sept. 11, 2012. These attacks killed the U.S. ambassador, J. Christopher Stevens, and three other Americans. The officials are still speaking about the capture on the condition of anonymity, but they say that the capture took place in the last few days. The militant was identified as Mustafa al-Imam, and he has been brought back to the U.S. in the custody of the Department of Justice.
Taken from: reuters.com
Jennaya Robison ('96) directs a choir of Aurora students along with community members. REFORMATION | PAGE 1 Guest preacher April Ulring Larson spoke on behalf of the ELCA congregation. Larson holds the title of the first female bishop in the ELCA. Larson spoke about the Reformation’s continuation and God’s message to each person about their part in that continuation. Larson’s message was temporarily interrupted when a member of Norsemen fainted while seated on stage. Blair made light of the situation and assured audience members that he was being helped by fellow choir members. “It is God’s words in actions,” Blair said. “Community being a community and aiding one another in time of need.”
After Blair's reassurance, presiding minister Stacey Nalean-Carlson, who serves as pastor for both Glenwood Lutheran and Canoe Ridge Lutheran Church, spoke. The Luther community was also represented by Harleigh Boldridge (‘18) as the service’s lector and Karl Nycklemoe (‘18) as the assisting minister. Luther choirs also performed in the service. Aurora, Cantorei, and Norsemen performed a variety of hymns including “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” “The Gospel Urges Us to Share,” and “The Church of Christ in Every Age.” Attendee Max Eness (‘20) said that he thought “The Gospel Urges Us to Share” emphasized the message of the service. “The song points to the continuation of reforming and the grace of God in doing
so, but to also abandon some of the worldly desires that cause us pain and suffering,” Eness said. “The Reformation, in the bigger picture, challenges the way we live, to have a critical mind, and question if the way we live aligns alongside the beliefs and values we hold.” The gathering of students, faculty, and community members brought to life the message of the service, according to NaleanCarlson. “It’s a reminder of the bigger picture, not about each of us individually,” NaleanCarlson said. “Every congregation can share the message preached in their own way, but we united to commemorate in such a beautiful way. The Holy Spirit was definitely present here today.”
HEALTH | PAGE 1 Following the lecture, the floor was opened for members of the audience to ask Andersen questions related to the documentary and dietary health. In general, there were two main concerns raised about Andersen’s documentary. The first group of questions was about the impact of veganism, mainly on farming and health. Andersen advocated for a switch to a plant-based diet because it improves not only physical health but also emotional, spiritual, and environmental health. The second category of questions created tension, as they focused on how Andersen’s arguments and presentation could be problematic and potentially unscientific. These questions reflected anxieties regarding the difficulty to switch to ‘organic’ or ‘veganic’ practices in agriculture. Other questions were critiques directed to the documentary’s research and presentation. One highlight of the evening came from the second group of questions, which manifested a brief conversation between Andersen and Professor of Biology Jodi Enos-Berlage about the usage of scientific studies in the documentary. Enos-Berlage voiced the concerns of many students and faculty that Andersen presented studies as absolute fact in the documentary, despite the lack of consensus in the scientific community on this issue. In an interview with Chips, Enos-Berlage reflected on why she spoke up . “The integrity of science is what’s at stake here,” Enos-Berlage said. “Cherry picking data, and only talking to a few people that were hard to find but support your claim, doesn’t represent science.” Enos-Berlage also explained that she spoke out of concern that not enough critical questions about the documentary were being asked. “I would encourage students to not be afraid to ask questions, even when you’re being presented [information by] someone who assumes authority at the front of a lecture hall, or a documentary that went viral,” Enos-Berlage said. “Going viral doesn’t mean that it has sound evidence or that the sources are credible, it means it’s popular. I want to make my health choices based on evidence, and I would encourage others to do so too.” While many were critical of the documentary’s presentation and usage of sources, some attendees said that the lecture and film caused them to look deeper into the research on our diet’s impact on health. Maria Kaczmarek (‘18), said that she will critically examine the evidence in front of her. “I think it would be naïve for myself or anyone to strictly change their diet because of a ninety-minute documentary,” Kaczmarek said. “But, if anything, it has sparked [my interest] to look more into the research and find out what is true health based on all research, not just the slim amount he found and chose to use which agreed with his argument.” Likewise, other students praise Andersen’s work for generating conversation beyond how diet impacts health, and how veganism is a possible solution to issues about public health and the environment. Allison Houldson (‘21) hopes the conversation extends beyond personal physical health. “I hope that the conversation won’t only be around the health of people but also concerns about the environment and those of animal well-being,” Houldson said. “I think those things are important to consider together instead of just looking at health, and understanding things outside yourself.” The documentary “What the Health” is available on Netflix, and another
Gillian Klein (‘20) | Chips
GARDNER | PAGE 1 “I have never traveled in Eastern Europe, and it is a very interesting part of the world that I don’t know very much about,” Gardner said. “The more I read about [Romania] and other countries in the world, the more intrigued I got." According to Anna Phearman (‘19), Gardner’s commitment to working with students inside and outside of class has improved her time so far at Luther. “I really appreciate how he invests in the individual student,” Phearman said. “I felt that he really believed in me as a student, which really encouraged me in his classes to work harder than I maybe would have if he hadn’t shown that he believed in what I could do. I think that is something that makes a good professor." Assistant Professor of Political Science Pedro Dos Santos echoed this sentiment, indicating how Gardner’s support has helped him as a professor at Luther. “[Gardner] ended up being a mentor in a very unexpected way because I would go in and ask questions," Dos Santos said. "I started doing that enough that it become a regular a thing. I would knock on [Gardner’s] door with a really quick question
or a longer question, and he is super personable and super okay with it.” According to Dos Santos, Gardner’s leadership and teaching style has contributed to the structure of the political science department. “The [political science] department is going to lose some of its institutional memory,” Dos Santos said. “But the students are going lose a really good professor who has taught a lot of really interesting courses." The political science department does not intend on making any significant changes in the immediate future, and Luther is not searching for a professor to replace Gardner. Moving forward without Gardner and Emeritus Professor John Moeller, who retired after the last academic year, the political science professors are evaluating how they can structure the department around their expertise. “We need to think about how we can play to our strengths as we are adjusting the program,” Dos Santos said. “So if we are going to make any adjustments to the program, we are going to have to understand our own place in the program. The ones who are still here — how do we fit in and what can we do?”
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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A&E EDITOR: LILY KIME
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Come play in the Doll House of Horror KRISTEN WUERL STAFF WRITER Welcome all to the doll house of screams and scares. This was the theme of SPIN Theatre Company’s annual haunted house in Storre Theatre. This year, SPIN’s haunted house took place on Oct. 27 and 28 from 7:30-10:00 p.m. with over 100 people attending total. SPIN Marketing Director Noah Tiegs (‘20) described what SPIN is. “SPIN is Luther’s student-run theatre organization,” Tiegs said. “We’re entirely directed, produced, acted, marketed, and built by theatre majors, minors, and non-majors across campus. We have leadership roles for everyone involved, and we
love to get everyone involved in our productions.” SPIN has produced a haunted house in Storre for the past four years. The haunted house is a fundraiser for SPIN, and the company uses the earnings to pay for rights to perform other shows and to purchase costumes and props. “[Former Artistic Director of SPIN]Maggie Sulentic (‘16) was really involved in starting the haunted house,” SPIN Artistic Director Laila Sahir (‘18) said. “It came from SPIN wanting to provide a fun, low time commitment experience for people.” Tiegs enjoys the collaboration that the haunted house brings among students.
Cayla Loy (‘20) is held captive in the doll house. Kristen Wuerl (‘18) | Chips
“The haunted house is a fun and safe event for people on Halloween weekend,” Tiegs said. “Also, we have people who want to design it, which is a huge asset to the whole project.” The haunted house theme changes each year. Set designer Andrew Tiede (‘19) decided this year’s theme: the Doll House. “I personally think doll houses are creepy,” Tiede said. “SPIN allowed me to just go with the theme because I picked it. I specifically like this [haunted house] project, but I’ve never liked doll houses.” Tiede began the construction process by choosing the Doll House theme. He then drew floor plans and helped build the set while overseeing lighting and prop placement for the set. Attendees were first met with screams and poundings from the inside of the haunted house as they paid a $3 entrance fee outside. SPIN board members asked attendees to not touch the actors while walking through the house, and actors were instructed to not touch the attendees either. “[Campus] Safety and Security know [the haunted house] happens, so they always do a walk-through of the haunted house,” Sahir said. “They always tell [those in charge of the haunted house] no touching [of the actors or attendees] and to make sure everyone knows where the emergency exits are. We want to make sure everything is really well maintained for the safety of both [attendees and actors].”
Emma Brashear (‘18) hosts a broken tea party. Kristen Wuerl (‘18) | Chips Once attendees entered Storre Theatre, the haunted house began with Cayla Loy (‘20) wrapped in caution tape hiding under the stairs and pleading for help. Attendees then entered walled-off sections where characters played with dolls, ate dolls, and hosted a tea party with dolls. The haunted house ended with a jump scare by actor and makeup designer Tanner Huppert (‘18) dressed in a mask with needles protruding from it. “I have a sick sense of humor,” Huppert said. “I like scaring people and catching them off guard.” Attendees Iris Johnson (‘20), Morgan Seemann (‘20), and Sarah
A Night of Queen Bey EMMA BUSCH STAFF WRITER
The Luther College Black Student Union (BSU) and People for Rights and Inclusion of Diversity and Expression (PRIDE) partnered to bring Beyoncé Appreciation Evening (B.A.E.) to Marty’s on Saturday Oct. 28. 50 Attendees gained admission to the event by purchasing a $3 button inspired by the Pride flag design. It features a black and brown stripe to highlight inclusivity in the LGBTQ+ community. All proceeds went toward hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico and Houston. According to PRIDE secretary and host of the event Wyatt Anians (‘19), the concept for B.A.E. came about in light of current dialogue regarding the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Both groups believe that one way to address these discussions is through collaborative events like B.A.E. “Discussions have come out in the past couple years about inclusivity and civil rights activists have made a lot of points about how Black Lives Matter is Gay Lives Matter and Transgender Lives Matter,” Anians said. “All of these things are a similar fight for equality, so we’re thinking of how the two organizations can bridge the gap and encourage inclusivity.” Boldridge says that the event was also inspired by a memorable BSU meeting that revolved around Beyoncé’s music. “A group of us in BSU were brainstorming ideas for fun programming and we remembered [a meeting] last year where we just jammed to
Beyoncé,” Boldridge said. “It was an awesome meeting and we thought that more students would enjoy a similar gathering.” While other artists like Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, and Shakira were considered as the central focus of the event, Beyoncé was chosen for her commitment to activism and popularity amongst members of the LGBTQ+ community. “In parts of the gay community, Beyoncé is a queen and an icon to so many,” Anians said. “She’s also a prominent black woman in the world that has spoken out about equality for black folks and a supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement, so we honed in on her in the end.” During the event, performers could sing, lip sync, or dance to any Beyoncé song they wanted, ranging from her time in Destiny’s Child to her most recent album, “Lemonade.” Member of both BSU and PRIDE Diamond Jenkins (‘20) and Anians hosted the event, playing Beyoncé trivia or leading impromptu dance parties between performances. The Eklipse Hip Hop Dance Team kicked off the night with a performance to a medley of Beyoncé’s music, followed by Teboho Nteso’s (‘20) solo dance performance to J. Balvin and Willy William’s remix of “Mi Gente.” Beautiful Mess, Luther’s allfemale a capella group, continued the night with their rendition of “Love on Top.” Throughout the evening, attendees were encouraged to perform in addition to those who signed up to participate. Attendee and performer Corinn Schmieg (‘18) said that the event’s casual atmosphere made her feel more comfortable with performing “If I Were a Boy” last minute.
“I wasn’t planning on performing when I came here tonight, but it seemed like a lot of fun so I just went for it,” Schmieg said. “I’m a member of PRIDE and know a lot of the people that put this night together, so it was easy to let go and have fun singing and dancing with my friends.” BSU secretary and Beautiful Mess member
Jennings (‘20) were startled by their experience in the haunted house. “I didn’t think the actor at the end would jump out at me right away,” Jennings said. “I turned around and he was coming towards me. Then I saw his face with all the needles sticking out of it.” Johnson was literally knocked off her feet at the haunted house. “At first, I wasn’t feeling anything,” Johnson said. “Then, on the ground, I saw some crumpled up clothing, and I thought ‘nobody is there.’ Then it moved and shot up, and I fell over. Everyone kept in character and was kind of scary-laughing at us. It was a blast.”
Tamar Tedla (‘20) praised the event’s atmosphere and was pleased to see all the success after the work that both groups put into planning it. “I’m really glad that everyone here seemed to have a lot of fun,” Tedla said. “I was involved with planning for the event, setting up decorations, and performing. It’s exciting that people responded well because we put a lot of time towards making this possible.” BSU and PRIDE look forward to collaborating again, but do not have any specific plans to replicate B.A.E. in the future.
Wyatt Anians (‘19) and Harleigh Boldridge (‘18) lip sync to Beyonce’s “Daddy Lessons.” Emma Busch (‘20) | Chips
FEATURES
PAGE 6 NOVEMBER 2, 2017
FEATURES EDITOR: SHASA SARTIN
Lauren Knuckey (‘19) and Malu Mndzebele (‘21) in the 2017 International Fashion Show., demonstrating cultural appreciation. They are both wearing the traditional attire of Swaziland called ‘emahiya.’ Hasan Muhammad (‘20) | Photo Bureau
Cultural appropriation vs. cultural appreciation CARA KEITH STAFF WRITER The International Student and Allies Association (ISAA) hosted their annual International Fashion Show on Oct. 21. This year the theme was “Appreciate Don’t Appropriate.” Since students just celebrated Halloween, being mindful of cultural appropriation has been a topic of discussion on Luther College’s campus. This was especially apparent as students, faculty, and staff decided what costumes to don for a costume contest hosted by Dining Services on Monday, Oct. 30. ISAA chose “Appreciate Don’t Appropriate” as the theme for the fashion show this year because the organization wanted students to appreciate different cultures from all over the world. The fashion show provided an example for Luther students on how they are able to exchange different cultural ideas without exploiting or disrespecting other cultures. President of ISAA Zakithi Nkosi (‘19) explained how the students in the fashion show demonstrated an appreciation for different cultures rather than appropriating them. “One of the things we did, not just for the people participating but also the audience,
was to include descriptions of the attire in the programs,” Nkosi said. “We wanted to show when some of the attires are worn, what their purpose is, and that kind of thing. With the models, we made sure that the people who were giving away their attire were consenting and that the models weren’t wearing the attire in a way that’s not OK.” Nkosi describes how there is a thin line between appreciation and appropriation. The main difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation is the intent and recognition behind utilizing another culture. Cultural appropriation is when someone uses someone else’s culture without considering the people of that culture, to make money, or to simply look fashionable. Contrastingly, cultural appreciation is when someone utilizes another culture with the intent of respecting it and wanting to learn more about it. Those who appreciate culture should also obtain the consent of someone from the culture they are utilizing to make sure they don’t unintentionally disrespect the culture in any way. Ishimwe Christa Peilla (‘21) described the negative implications of cultural appropriation. “The harm of cultural appropriation is
cultural extinction,” Peilla said. “I understand the idea that ‘we [as people] are one’ but our differences are what makes us one. If everybody used everybody else’s culture, at some point we would have nothing. If you don’t have a culture then who are you? Imagine losing who you are or where you come from.” While the fashion show was one instance where students had the opportunity to appreciate culture, the Halloween costume contest was a chance for students to decide whether their costume was appropriate, especially with consideration to cultures outside of their own. When the Food Council and Dining Services put on the annual costume contest, they did not have any regulations about what costumes are deemed appropriate. In an interview prior to the contest, Food Council President Luke Wilson (‘18) explained why the costume contest did not have strict rules in place for this event. “Luther students are not going to have costumes that are overtly inappropriate or anything in certain circumstances,” Wilson said. “We kind of trust the Luther students and if there is a costume that is deemed to be inappropriate or deemed harmful to somebody, we are definitely going to knock
them for that.” Nkosi also stated that she hasn’t seen cultural appropriation as a huge problem on Luther’s campus. Despite this, she feels that it is important for students to educate themselves on the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. According to Nkosi, the most important thing that Luther students can do to put an end to cultural appropriation is to point it out to each other when they see it. “Holding people accountable is important,” said Nkosi. “So if you see your friends doing something questionable, don’t just be quiet. Or if you are offended by your own friend, just call them out. You might lose a friend but at least you’ll be educating someone.” One way for students to learn more about cultural appropriation is to visit the Diversity Center. The staff will answer any questions about cultural appropriation and whether or not an action is deemed to be appropriation. Along with this, students can seek help from different student organizations such as ISAA and Hola Enlaces, which is a Spanish service organization on campus. Though Halloween is over, ISAA still encourages Luther students to be mindful about their future costumes and to always be cognizant about cultural appropriation.
FEATURES
PAGE 7
FEATURES EDITOR: SHASA SARTIN
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Mock Trial kicks off the year with tournament at Drake
Anna Luber (‘20) and Claire Eichorn (‘19) prepare for the tournament.
NATALIE NELSON STAFF WRITER Luther’s two Mock Trial teams competed in their first tournament at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa last weekend. The ‘A’ team scored 2-5-1 and the ‘B’ team scored 2-6. The tournament was just the start to an exciting season. Teams from different schools compete against one another to win a fictional case. This is the first time in many years that Luther has had two teams compete. When asked why the team has expanded, Captain of Mock Trial Anika Nelson (‘19) joked that she thought it was because they had salt water taffy at their table during the activities fair. Nelson said that she is very excited about the team’s growth. “We definitely have to be a lot more organized,” Nelson said.
“But it’s nice because we can bounce ideas back and forth between the two teams and just compare [witnesses]. You can only call three [witnesses], so we’re calling different witnesses for each side so we can see what is going to work better for regionals. Then hopefully we can make it to nationals.” The teams prepare a defense and a prosecution for the trial, and in each round, they compete against another school. Nelson said the most challenging part of being in such a timeconsuming activity is time management. “There’s a lot you have to do right before the tournament,” Nelson said. “It’s hard to find a balance because you have to be human and then a student first. That’s what we always tell people that are on the team, because that has to be your first priority but you still have to be committed to Mock Trial, so it’s making sure that you find the right amount of time to add
Luther’s Mock Trial B-team. Back row, Left to right: Steve Hadaway (‘21), Kai Storvick (‘21), Laura Schueler (‘19), Claire Twedt (‘21). Front row, left to right: Meta Miller (‘21), Aiden Berdahl (‘21), Maren Gabor (‘21), Anna Lavender (‘21). Photo Courtesy of Claire Eichorn (‘19)
Lily Kime (‘19) | Chips Mock Trial to your week.” Co-captain Claire Eichhorn (‘19) is enthusiastic about this year’s case. “This is one of the best cases we’ve had in awhile,” Eichhorn said. “Last year we had an age discrimination case, which was interesting but it got a little dry. This year’s case involves attempted murder. It involves a dating app like Tinder, food trucks, and an affair. It’s a really interesting case and there’s a lot going on so it’s been hard to figure out where we want to go with this.” Professor of Political Science Michael Engelhardt has been the coach of Mock Trial since 1994. He thinks the activity is valuable for students who are interested in law. “[Mock trial] was started by Richard Calkins, who was Dean of the Law School at Drake, and he wanted something that would get possible law students to visit Drake and it has really gone a long way from there,” Engelhardt said. “It’s aimed partly at getting kids interested in law school or possibly deciding that they don’t want to go to law school. I enjoy working with the students, and improving their confidence and their ability to speak.” Eichhorn joined Mock Trial because of an interest in law and felt that the experience helped inform her about the field. “It has definitely taught me how different trial is than how you would think,” Eichorn said. “There’s a lot of vocabulary and of different etiquette to learn. But it’s definitely been really helpful and it’s kind of fun once you learn all the different rules and things that go along with it. It has definitely helped me to start thinking more critically as well as putting together persuasive arguments.” Nelson agreed that Mock Trial had helped her develop better speaking abilities, and she said the skills it teaches apply to all disciplines and lines of work. “It can be a little stressful, but at the same time it really prepares you for being able to give a ten minute speech on your feet, which is something that I think is valid for speaking skills and now I know how to present an argument well,” Nelson said. “If anything, it’s a great thing to put on your resume, because for graduate law school, or even just working a job, if they see that you were in Mock Trial or were captain of Mock Trial, it’s instantly recognized as amazing.” Nelson thinks the team has a good chance of going to nationals this year and she looks forward to the rest of the season.
PAGE 8
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
A&E EDITOR: LILY KIME
Ballroom and Swing “blasts” off to a new season Helen Arneson (‘19) and Jason Hu (‘19) dance a tango together at Ballroom Blast in Minneapolis.
GRACE ONSRUD STAFF WRITER The Luther Ballroom and Swing Club attended their first competition of the season in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Oct. 21. The event was called Ballroom Blast and was hosted by the University of Minnesota Twin Cities’ Ballroom Dance Club. Unlike most competitions that the club attends during their spring season, this competition was for comments rather than placements and awards. Luther’s team attends Ballroom Blast every year because it provides them an opportunity to receive feedback from professionals that they use as they prepare for competitions in the spring. Luther brought 45 people to the event, which was almost the entire team. For many new team members, Ballroom Blast was their first time at a ballroom dance competition. President of Ballroom and Swing Kjerstin Nelson (‘18) said that the event is a chance for new dancers to gain some experience on the dance floor. “This competition is a really good event
for all of the [newcomers] to see what a competition is like without the stress of actually competing.” Nelson said. In most ballroom and swing dance competitions, dancers compete in six different categories: waltz, tango, foxtrot, chacha, rumba, and swing. Everyone on the team competes these dances, but at three different levels: newcomer, bronze, and silver. The judges watch the dancers all together and choose which pairs will go on to the next level. Ballroom Blast is different. Instead of choosing the best dancers to move up, the judges observe each pair from the edges of the dance floor and give them comments on how to improve. At Ballroom Blast, there are usually 10 to 12 pairs of dancers on the floor at a time. Ballroom and Swing member Nathan Campbell (‘18) discussed the nature of the comments they received from the judges at Ballroom Blast. “Having some outside feedback helps us know whether we are on the right track or we need adjustments in some areas.” Campbell said. “The comments ranged from ‘Love the
President of Ballroom and Swing Team Kjerstin Nelson (‘18) dances during the social dance. Photo courtesy of Ballroom Blast’s Facebook page
Photo courtesy of Ballroom Blast’s Facebook page
energy/great smiles’ to ‘Your left hand is too high.’ The judges did a great job of providing constructive feedback to better our dancing.” According to Ballroom and Swing member Matthew Dosland (‘19), many of the judges’ comments focused on technique, footwork, and posture, as well as compliments on energy and enthusiasm. During the first practice following this competition, the team discusses the feedback and talks about ways they can improve for future competitions. “[The judges] let us know how we could improve our frame and overall presence on the dance floor,” Nelson said. “All of the wonderful comments received this weekend will be vital in our preparation for the spring competitions.” Luther’s Ballroom and Swing club is unique in that it is almost entirely student-led. They have a professional coach, April Dahl, in Rochester, Minnesota that they are able to work with a few times each semester, but for the most part, they teach each other. Vice President of the team Deanna Grelecki (‘19) said that even though they cannot work with their coach as frequently as other teams do,
they are still competitive. “I think that we do pretty well for ourselves at competitions,” Grelecki said. “We usually place and we’ve gotten comments from other teams that can’t believe that we don’t have a coach. It gives us a more cohesive dynamic because we are focused on learning as much as we can from each other. Everyone is learning and everyone is teaching.” The chance to receive professional comments from the judges at Ballroom Blast is especially beneficial for Luther’s team because they are not able to work regularly with Dahl. Attending social dances, such as the Halloween-themed one that took place immediately after the Ballroom Blast competition, is another way that members of the team gather new repertoire and techniques that they can pass on to the other dancers. Luther Ballroom and Swing will return to the University of Minnesota for a formal competition this spring. They will also compete with other colleges in the Midwest such as the University of Northern Iowa and University of Minnesota Rochester.
Deanna Grelecki (‘19) and Matthew Dosland (‘19) dance together during their third Ballroom Blast as a partnership. Photo courtesy of Ballroom Blast’s Facebook page
OPINION
PAGE 9
MANAGING EDITOR: ELIZABETH BONIN
STAFF Editor-in-Chief Jacob Warehime Managing Editor Elizabeth Bonin News Editors Katrina Meyer Ana López Features Editor Shasa Sartin A&E Editor Lily Kime Sports Editor Ben Selcke Staff Writers Karl Nycklemoe Natalie Nelson Gillian Klein Emma Busch Grace Onsrud Olivia Enquist Jonathan Kuehner Anthony Ramón Jorge Contreras Pérez Soto Martin Donovan Cara Keith Part-time Writers Forrest Stewart Kristen Wuerl Martel DenHartog Elizabeth Hand Head Copy Editor Elyse Grothaus Copy Editors Jackie Cychosz Lyndsay Monsen Ad Representatives Bergen Gardner Web Content Manager James Miller Social Media Director Elyse Grothaus Distribution Manager Lyndsay Monsen Faculty Adviser David Faldet
SUBMISSIONS Submissions for letters to the editor should be submitted to chipsedt@luther.edu with “Letter to the Editor” as a subject line. Letters to the Editor are subject to editing without changing the meaning of the letter. Authors will not be notified of changes prior to publishing. Letters must be signed, 400-700 words, and submitted before Sunday at 5 p.m. the week before publication. Publication of all letters is at the discretion of the editor. Chips will not accept submitted articles or campus announcements. Opinions expressed in columns and letters are those of the authors(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Chips or organizations with which the author(s) are associated. LUTHER COLLEGE
CHIPS Chips is a student publication of Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. The paper is designed, composed edited and managed entirely by Luther students. It is published weekly during the academic year, excluding the month of January. Fax: 563-387-2072 Email: chipsedt@luther.edu Advertising: chipsads@luther.edu Website: lutherchips.com Facebook: facebook.com/LutherChips Twitter: @LutherChips Instagram: @luthercollegechips
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
EDITORIAL
Cultural appropriation in the form of makeup In the weeks before Halloween, my Facebook feed was flooded with articles and videos against cultural appropriation in Halloween costumes. Some of them were painfully obvious. One walked the viewer through the reasons why wearing a sexy version of traditional ANA LÓPEZ Native American clothes NEWS EDITOR is wrong. It also explained why wearing an oversized sombrero, a poncho, and a fake moustache is offensive. The video was clear and easy to understand. However, the examples I provided here — the use of stereotypes of a culture or the inappropriate use of a culture’s traditional clothing — are extremes. Cultural appropriation is also present in more subtle details when dressing for Halloween. Although some of the articles I saw posted on social media hinted at this, it is disappointing to see people still wearing costumes that were offensive or inappropriate. There is one that makes me particularly uncomfortable: sugar skull makeup. Sugar skull makeup is a kind of makeup that is used around the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead”. This holiday is a celebration of the life of those who have passed away as well as a celebration of the finite nature of life. The sugar skull makeup is inspired by the sugar skulls used as offerings in the altars that are placed in cemeteries as well as the houses of Mexican families. They also inspired the look of a famous cultural icon in Mexican culture, La Catrina. Sugar skulls are colorful and
beautiful. The colorful details around the eyes and lips make this a perfect look for a cute, yet spooky look on Halloween. However, this look is still a vital part of one of our most dear national holidays, and wearing it is using the makeup in a very disrespectful way. I understand that Día de los Muertos can be an interesting holiday for people that are not familiar with it. After all, I understand that celebrating the dead is not necessarily a familiar concept for many cultures. The aesthetics of it are also appealing. It is a very colorful holiday with candy skulls, food, and flowers everywhere. I always get excited when people that are curious about the holiday ask me about it because I love to share my culture with other people. However, this does not mean that people can use it out of its context. Wearing sugar skull makeup to Halloween parties is disrespectful and it is cultural appropriation. Yes, it is still appropriation, even if Disney launches a whole movie using the holiday as its theme. And no, Día de los Muertos is not Mexican Halloween. The fact that the media has been displaying the holiday does not make it acceptable to use it as a costume. The issue of cultural appropriation can also be connected to a larger trend in this particular case. I genuinely do not understand why some of the public discourse in this country directly attacks Mexican culture, calling Mexicans “lazy,” “not the best people,” or “rapists” to the degree that the word “Mexican” is used as an insult. And yet, many of these people consume Mexican culture. Sugar skull makeup is praised, adaptations of Mexican food are everywhere, and Cinco de Mayo is used as an excuse to get wasted drinking tequila. We should think more carefully about how we interact with cultures. We must make an effort to interact in a respectful way in order to celebrate diversity. The first step is to avoid cultural appropriation.
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Why are we striving towards “marriage material?” If summer is wedding season, then fall must be the season to get engaged. At least that’s what it seems to be within my circle of friends and high school acquaintances. Every time I log onto a social media platform, specifically Facebook, I see more and more photos or updates about engagements. While I am pleased that my friends are happy enough to post weekly or even daily updates about an event months away, I have also noticed an annoying trend as an increased number of people get engaged. Alongside engagement notices, I see shared articles about how to be “girlfriend” or “marriage material.” These articles are often titled things like “10 Things Great Girlfriends Do,” or “8 Ways to Know Your Girlfriend Isn’t Marriage Material.” Even worse yet, some are titled things like “Maybe You Don’t Have a (insert male celebrity of your choosing here) Boyfriend because You Aren’t Acting Like Girlfriend Material.” Barf. I have an endless number of issues with these articles. Even before addressing content issues, the language and style of these articles are unbearable. I cannot believe that people actually get paid for compiling bullet point lists with the same eight GIFs of sitcom characters reacting to things.
I also cannot believe that these people then consider themselves published writers, especially considering that the articles they produce both enforce strict gender roles and condemn classic ideas of femininity. In these articles, there seems to be two contending schools of thought. That to be “marriage material” one must fall within a strict guideline of what it means to be a woman, yet one must like things that are typically considered male. That one must be attractive, fit, funny, smart but never intimidating, engaging but never loud, and always willing to be “one of the guys.” Essentially, that she be a mold of a specific type of woman and yet “not like other girls.” This implies that by liking things typically associated with femininity, such as shopping, she is vain but by not following prescriptive gender norms she is unattractive. The issue here is not with women’s interests or preferred lifestyles. It instead lies with the notion that male things are good, and female things are somehow bad. This is a notion that is only enforced by opinion articles on how to be “marriage material.” Furthermore, why is being “marriage material” something to aim for? Why is marriage considered a goal that all women must have in their life? That
somehow, by not living happily ever after in a heteronormative stereotype, these women are unfulfilled. As if having careers or friendships or volunteering or family is not fulfilling in its own right. Nobody reminds men focusing on their careers that “the clock is ticking” and that they should start settling down. Yet that happens to women all the time. Also, last time I checked, most humans are made up of the same stuff as any other human. The idea that one person is intrinsically better suited for a relationship because they follow more societal norms is ridiculous. There are 7 billion people on the earth, and what makes every one of those people interesting are the differences between them. The idiosyncrasies that make people weird are the things that makes people interesting. The best connections that we have with other people come from relationships where we can be unapologetically ourselves, not some gender norm of what we think we should be within a relationship. So, can we please stop sharing, commenting, and liking articles about how to be “marriage material” when such a thing doesn’t even exist? Signed, Olivia Enquist (‘19)
OPINION
PAGE 10 NOVEMBER 2, 2017
MANAGING EDITOR: ELIZABETH BONIN
EDITORIAL
Stop caring so much about grades
JACKIE CYCHOSZ COPY EDITOR I have always cared way too much about academics. I am that person who rents a study room in the library about three times in a day, stares anxiously at my notes, and guzzles down a couple of Diet Cokes if I have a big test or paper coming up soon. I am scrupulous about my work and beat myself up whenever I miss an assignment, no matter how insignificant. I do all of this in order to achieve one thing: a decent grade. This year, many of my professors have been preaching an idea that I am not used to hearing. My professors have been preaching the idea to not focus on my grades, but to instead focus on the experience. While this seems like an
agreeable concept, I have not heard this emphasized quite so much at Luther College until my senior year. It is not only one professor who is telling me this either; all of my professors have either hinted at or straight up told me to stop caring so much about my grades and care more about the subjects they are teaching me. I would love to concede to this idea and become more Type B about my grades. Un f o r t u n a t e l y, there is one large underlying problem: the way this education system is set up puts a lot of emphasis on getting good grades. They practically spell out at graduation who got the best GPAs with their cum laudes, magna cum laudes, and summa
cum laudes. How are we supposed to not care about our grades when there is the possibility of winning awards for doing well in school? Not only does this happen at graduation but many times throughout the school year. I am a part of the Luther College Women’s Tennis team and we create a list of goals and standards at the beginning of every season. When we talk about academic goals, the first thing that we think of is receiving the ITA Team Award. In order to receive this award, we as a team must achieve an average GPA of 3.2. So along with achieving a good GPA to raise your own self-esteem, this award puts pressure on players to do well so that their entire team can reap the benefits. In addition, the IIAC also gives out individual
“It seems contradictory for my professors to tell me to stop worrying about my GPA yet have the institution of Luther College praise me constantly for worrying.” -Jackie Cyschosz (‘18)
The Norse Poll
“No, I don’t think they care about grades that much. You can just do the homework and try to learn from it.” -Matt Novothy (‘21)
I think most colleges focus on grades more than I think is healthy for a lot of individuals. I think overall Luther may do a slightly better job than other schools. -Ellie Menssen (‘19)
academic awards, reiterating that good grades are important for the individual. I did not decide to write this article because I believe that a more relaxed attitude towards grades is impossible. On the contrary, I want to see certain students, including myself, take grades way less seriously. But in order for that to happen, the system first has to change. It seems contradictory for my professors to tell me to stop worrying about my GPA yet have the institution of Luther College praise me constantly for worrying. Even the subtle things like an advisor applauding someone for a strong semester or a professor writing ‘Good job’ on a student’s paper can leave an impact. I am not suggesting that professors stop positively reinforcing their students, but those reinforcements do establish standards and put pressure on students to keep meeting those standards. I wish I had the antidote that would quell this obsession with grades, but I do not. All I know is something has to change within the institution to make students comfortable with becoming more lax about academics. If this occurs, perhaps students will be more engaged with their class subjects rather than the letters that show up on their transcripts.
Do you think that Luther fosters an environment where grades are more important than the experience?
“I’ve noticed that Luther, my professors specifically, have focused more on the experience, rather than grades. I’ve noticed that a lot of them [professors] will put grades aside and look at how much we grow as students.” -Marri Saunders (‘20)
SPORTS
PAGE 11
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
SPORTS EDITOR: BEN SELCKE
Volleyball seeded second in IIAC tournament
Anna Larson (‘19), Paige Steward (‘21), and Sam Schroeder (‘21) prepare for the serve .
JONATHAN KUEHNER STAFF WRITER This Friday, the Women’s Volleyball team will play in the IIAC semifinals at the U.S. Cellular Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. If Luther wins the game, they will move on to the next round. The Norse secured their placement in the IIAC tournament with a second-seed placement. This is the result of a conference record of 6-2 and an overall record of 16-9.
Charlie Mitchell (‘17)| Photo Bureau
According to Katie Shabatura (‘18), the team is looking forward to the upcoming tournament. “Everyone is amped up and ready to go,” Shabatura said. “I think we’re all on the same page and all want to win. I think this extra week of practice will prepare us well for that, so we’re excited to see where the season brings us.” Other teams that are playing in this weekend’s tournament include Nebraska Wesleyan University, Coe College, Buena Vista University, University of Dubuque, and Wartburg College. According to Assistant Coach Lindsey Weatherford,
the tournament is full of tough teams. “When it comes to conference matches, on any given day any team can go out and win,” Weatherford said. “It doesn’t matter if you are the sixth seed, it doesn’t matter if you’re the second or the first, everyone is out for blood.” Nicki Ellingson (‘18) discussed the dynamics of the team and its effect on their gameplay. “We’ve had a couple ups and downs, but we’ve definitely gone up overall,” Ellingson said. “We’ve been trying people in different positions, in different rotations, and lineups. Nothing is set in stone, but we definitely play well together.” Junior Varsity, which is also finishing up their season, played their final match of their season at Loras College last Saturday. The JV team does not have as many opportunities to play other teams as the Varsity. It is composed primarily of first-years and sophomores. This team gives players the opportunity to practice and prepare for the varsity team in future seasons. “Everyone wants to do well,” Head Volleyball Coach Danielle Kohut said. “That’s what they want out of the season so that’s what they’re going to get. It’s a joy to coach girls like that.” While the JV season is finished, the players continue to be involved with the team. “We have one of the best benches in the conference,” Kohut said. “They are very supportive of Varsity, and it’s really wonderful for them to get a chance to play and take home a trophy. They are the heart of our team and they get everything rolling.” Luther team spirit is notable in the conference as being especially enthusiastic and supportive. “The bench is absolutely wild,” Shabatura said. “We’ve had people record us before because we have all these crazy cheers. Having that extra edge on other teams is encouraging our the players.” If successful in the semi finals, Luther will continue on to the Championship Match on Saturday, in the same location “This time of year is what’s going to get you to the postseason, so everyone wants that automatic bid into the national tournament,” Weatherford said.
Norse of the Week BEN SELCKE SPORTS EDITOR Bernardo Marotti (‘18) was named IIAC Defensive Player of t he week on O ct. 22. The IIAC selection credits t he record of Luther’s defensive line for t heir decision. In the p ast t wo games against C entral College and C oe C ollege, Luther’s defensive line have only let t hrough nine shots on goal. What is your p osition and role on the team? Marotti: I’m a left b ack. My role on t he team is to defend f irst. As a left b ack, usually we don’t attack much, but I t ry as much as I c an [to attack], w hich is one of my strengths. How d o you stay focused during the season? We have a meeting at t he b eginning of the s eason w here we decided t hat we’re not going to go out, we’re not going to drink during t he s eason. We respect that [decision] and stay focused on the practices and games. It is hard, but at t he same t ime, four years goes s o fast and you have to enjoy t he moments [you have to play s occer]. Personally, I t ry to listen to music, get good sleep, and s ometimes I meditate as well w hich keeps my mind relaxed.
Bernardo Marotti (‘18) attempts to move the ball downfield. Rachel Miller (‘18) | Photo Bureau
How d o you prepare for a specific soccer g ame? On game d ay I don’t t alk to anyone. I don’t like to t alk about t he game or expectation [about t he outcome]. I’m always pretty nervous about games, but I like t he feeling. What are your thoughts on your g ame against Nebraska Wesleyan on Nov. 1? We b eat t hem during t he regular s eason 4-0, but it was not an e asy game. They are a team t hat can surprise us, but it just depends on [how we play]. We’re a b etter team t han [Nebraska Wesleyan], s o my expectations are t hat we w ill w in. What d o you enjoy d oing b esides soccer? I like listening to music, I t hink most people do. A lso, I’m f rom Brazil, f rom Rio [de Janeiro] s o I like to surf and play foot-volley, w hich is like b each volleyball but w ith your feet. Anything t hat keeps my mind off t hings, t he problems I have, a hard week I had. What’s your f avorite sports brand? I would s ay Nike. I’ve b een using [Nike shoes] since my f irst year [at Luther], I like t he t he clothes, I like t he designs. We switched f rom Adidas to Nike for our uniforms and I t hink t he design is much better.
SPORTS
PAGE 12
SPORTS EDITOR: BEN SELCKE
NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Luther faces Eau Claire in first swim meet of the season
Weekly Standings
OLIVIA ENQUIST STAFF WRITER Luther College Men’s and Women’s Swim and Dive Team hosted their first home meet of the season against the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire on Saturday, Oct. 28. Both teams lost their respective meets. The men’s team lost, 145.5-88.5, while the women’s team lost 138-101. At the meet, UW-Eau Claire set three pool records in addition to their win. Eau Claire senior Collin Miller set the pool record in the 50 free with a time of 2:00.88. Eau Claire junior Jessica Short won the 200-yard IM while also breaking the pool record with a time of 2.14.93. Senior Dayton Miller set also set the pool record in the 200-yard breaststroke, clocking in at 2:15.84 Head Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Coach Nicole Kaupp commented on the home opening meet and how she thought the team swam. “The cool thing about the first two dual meets that we have this year is that we swam them last year,” Kaupp said. “I thought last year when we swam against Eau Claire we were really outmatched. This year it was close. We won more races. We don’t necessarily have the depth that they have, as they just have more swimmers than us. However, in terms of speed and in terms of racing we were right there with them. It was exciting to see that.” Luther Women’s Swim Team members Sam Kraft (‘18) and Linnea Lee-Brown (‘21) led Luther with two first-place finishes each. Kraft won the 1000 freestyle by 28 seconds and the 500 freestyle by 31 seconds. Lee-Brown won the 50 freestyle, beating Emily Ries of UW-Eau Claire by .04 seconds. Lee-Brown also won the 100 freestyle by almost two seconds. Kraft commented on how Luther performed in relation to prior years. “Last year when we faced Eau Claire, we lost by something like 200 points to 80 points,” Kraft said. “Looking at this year, it’s a huge difference. The team this year only lost by a margin of around 30 points, which is not too bad. It’s really nice to see the progress from where we came last year to this year.” Men’s Team co-captain Hunter Barnard (‘18) commented on the progress that the team has made since both last year and the beginning of this swim and dive season.
Football Wartburg Central Luther Simpson Dubuque Loras Buena Vista Coe Nebraska Wes.
IIAC 6-0 4-2 4-2 4-3 3-3 3-4 2-4 1-5 1-5
Recent Scores
Overall 8-0 5-3 5-3 5-4 5-3 4-5 3-5 3-5 1-7
Oct 28 vs. Coe College W 36-20 3OT
Upcoming Schedule
Nov 4 vs. Central College
Women’s Soccer Loras Dubuque Central Wartburg Coe Luther Nebraska Wes. Simpson Buena Vista
Trevor Kao (‘18) performs a reverse pike dive. “We did lose, but if you compare the scores from this year to last year it’s a closer margin,” Barnard said. “There’s been progress. Especially since we have a smaller team this year than last year.” On the Luther’s men’s team, Matt Staver (‘20), Peder Smith (‘20), and Ian Christopherson (‘18) led Luther, posting two first-place finishes each. Staver won the 1000 freestyle with a 12 second lead and also won the 200 butterfly by almost a full second. Smith won the 500 freestyle with a lead of nearly eight seconds and also the 200 freestyle. Christopherson won in the 50 freestyle and 100 freestyle. Kraft described some of the specific techniques that the team has been using outside of the pool to improve as the season has progressed. “The team has been in the weight room a lot this year,” Kraft said. “On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday we get up at six in the morning to work on improving our strength. The team has also been doing a lot of running this year, which is something that we haven’t done as much of in the past.” Kaupp described how she saw the team’s training as an integral part of the progress that they have made since last year.
Olivia Enquist (‘19) | Chips
“I thought that the swimmers and divers attacked the meet in a way that was indicative of how they have been training so far this year,” Kaupp said. “They looked prepared and they were confident in their abilities. They were willing to put it out there for each race..” At the meet, divers Megan Broadbent (‘18) and Elizabeth Bonin (‘18) finished first in one-meter and threemeter diving respectively. Broadbent won the one-meter competition with a total of 221.20, while Bonin finished with 195.30. In three-meter, Bonin beat Broadbent by only two points at 225.40 to 223.20. Barnard described what he is looking forward to as the season progresses. “I’m excited for the [Liberal Arts Championships], which will be happening later in the season,” Barnard said. “It’ll be here at Luther. It’s the first time that Luther has ever hosted the event, which will be exciting. In the short term, I am excited to see how we keep developing as a team.” Luther’s next meet is Saturday, Nov. 4 at 1:00 p.m when they host Grinnell College.
IIAC 6-0-2 5-1-2 5-1-2 4-1-3 4-3-1 4-4 2-6 1-7 0-8
Overall 12-1-3 9-4-3 14-2-3 10-4-4 12-4-3 7-9-1 5-11-1 4-14 2-15-1
Recent Scores
Oct 28 vs. Cental College W 4-3 in shootout
Upcoming Schedule
Nov 1 vs. Dubuque in IIAC Tournament
Men’s Soccer Luther Loras Simpson Nebraska Wes. Dubuque Wartburg Central Buena Vista Coe
IIAC 6-1-1 6-2 5-2-1 5-3 4-2-2 3-3-2 3-5 1-7 0-8
Overall 10-4-4 12-5 15-2-2 11-6-1 8-6-3 8-5-5 10-6 4-13-1 3-14
Recent Scores
Oct 24 vs. University of Dubuque T 0-0
Upcoming Schedule
Nov 1 vs. Nebraska Wes. in IIAC Tournament
Women’s Tennis Luther Coe Central Wartburg Loras Dubuque Nebraska Wes. Simpson Buena Vista
IIAC 8-0 7-1 6-2 5-3 4-4 3-5 2-6 1-7 0-8
Overall 8-1 8-3 8-2 7-4 8-4 9-7 2-7 3-7 2-10
Recent Scores
Oct 13-14 IIAC Individual Tournament
Volleyball Wartburg Luther Buena Vista Dubuque Coe Nebraska Wes. Loras Simpson Central
IIAC 8-0 6-2 5-3 5-3 4-4 3-5 3-5 1-7 1-7
Overall 22-5 16-9 20-9 27-6 14-15 11-16 12-15 9-17 9-24
Recent Scores
Oct 24 vs. Loras College W 3-1
Upcoming Schedule
Luther and Eau Claire swimmers dive into the water at the gun.
Olivia Enquist (‘19)| Chips
Nov 3 IIAC Tournament Semifinals