BY RYAN BRISCOE
Copy Editor
Students will spend the night sleeping in cardboard boxes as one of many events taking place at Saint Mary’s Univiersity’s celebration of the International Lasallian Days of Peace.
Tonight, students will gather to listen to the music of folk singer/songwriter Carlos Lumbí. Lumbí is a native of Nicaragua, and his lyrics campaign against the social and environmental injustices in South America. Lumbí also performs music composed by his friends who share his concerns. Following the concert, students can join in the Habitat for Humanity Shack-a-thon.
Participants in the Shack-a-thon will spend the night in the plaza sleeping in cardboard boxes. The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of homelessness. The week will conclude with Make a Difference Day tomorrow. Participants will spend the day serving the Winona community by doing jobs such as raking leaves, washing windows and cleaning gutters. Make a Difference Day focuses on simple jobs, which allows neighbors to help neighbors.
The Lasallian Week of Peace, which began Oct. 19 here at SMU, is a week centered in activities including prayer, service and presentations, all of which will engage members of our Lasallian community. These events aim to promote awareness of a myriad of social injustices seen as the roots of current causes of violence in the world.
According to the International Council of Young Lasallians (ICYL) website, the Lasallian Week of Peace is a product of the International Symposium for Young Lasallians, held in 2006. The participants in the symposium thought that a unified movement of Lasallian communities across the globe could be a powerful demonstration of the special way that Lasallians are concerned for peace. The first International Lasallian Day of Prayer for Peace was then set for October 2007.
The ILDP website says that the movement has since grown internationally to encompass an entire month, beginning with the United Nations day of peace (Sept. 21) and culminating in an evening of prayer on Oct. 21. At SMU, this event was a vigil service held around the peace pole located outside of Saint Thomas More Chapel. Brother Álvaro, the Superior General of the Christian Brothers, has asked young Lasallians to answer the call to action through the ILDP. His message this year to the ICYL reminded Lasallians that we are a people of action and not only a people of prayer. As one Lasallian says, “As Lasallians, we believe a better world of justice and peace is possible. Our mission is to make it happen, one person at a time.”
The Common Threads clothing drive and Make a Difference Day are among SMU’s efforts to help change society, beginning with action in the Winona community.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
‘Halloween Fun Night’ in 10th year
BY TRAVIS FICK
Managing Editor
Students may find monsters, Transformers and superheroes walking around Saint Mary’s University on Oct. 26, for the 10th annual community “Halloween Fun Night” event.
Sponsored by the Office of Residence Life, “Halloween Fun Night” gives SMU students an opportunity to interact with community members by handing out candy to local trick-or-treaters. Lance Thompson, assistant activities director and director of Saint Benilde and Saint Yon’s halls, is in charge of the event that hands out approximately 200 pounds of candy annually.
“Its kind of a big deal,” said Thompson. “The event was originally meant for low income families, but everyone is able to come.”
Thompson sends an announcement to local newspapers and flyers to public and private elementary schools in Winona and Rollingstone, Minn., as well as the Montessori school to notify the community of the event. Last year, around 100 dorm rooms participated in “Halloween Fun Night,” which brought more than 700 community members on campus during the hour and a half event.
“We almost had enough candy (last year), but we have run out of candy every year,” said Thompson. Thompson said handing out 200 pounds of candy requires donations from SMU faculty, students and staff, while the rest of the candy is purchased. Students can volunteer to lead participants around campus. “It is nice to see children walking around in costumes,” said Brittany Peterson, a senior who participated in the “Halloween Fun Night” event in 2007. “Sometimes things get pretty hectic around here, and it is a nice way to take a break.”
Some of the student tour guides belong to campus clubs and organizations such as cheerleading and rugby. “It’s fun to guide the kids around campus and get a little dressed up ourselves,” said senior cheerleading captain Sarah Frey. “Not only does it give the kids of Winona a safe opportunity to trick-or-treat, but it also gives the community of Winona a look into our Saint Mary’s community (…) and is a great way for us, as a team, to be a part of that.”
Students can volunteer to lead groups around campus by signing up with their resident assistant or by contacting Thompson at ljthomp01@smumn.edu.
Managing Editor
Students may find monsters, Transformers and superheroes walking around Saint Mary’s University on Oct. 26, for the 10th annual community “Halloween Fun Night” event.
Sponsored by the Office of Residence Life, “Halloween Fun Night” gives SMU students an opportunity to interact with community members by handing out candy to local trick-or-treaters. Lance Thompson, assistant activities director and director of Saint Benilde and Saint Yon’s halls, is in charge of the event that hands out approximately 200 pounds of candy annually.
“Its kind of a big deal,” said Thompson. “The event was originally meant for low income families, but everyone is able to come.”
Thompson sends an announcement to local newspapers and flyers to public and private elementary schools in Winona and Rollingstone, Minn., as well as the Montessori school to notify the community of the event. Last year, around 100 dorm rooms participated in “Halloween Fun Night,” which brought more than 700 community members on campus during the hour and a half event.
“We almost had enough candy (last year), but we have run out of candy every year,” said Thompson. Thompson said handing out 200 pounds of candy requires donations from SMU faculty, students and staff, while the rest of the candy is purchased. Students can volunteer to lead participants around campus. “It is nice to see children walking around in costumes,” said Brittany Peterson, a senior who participated in the “Halloween Fun Night” event in 2007. “Sometimes things get pretty hectic around here, and it is a nice way to take a break.”
Some of the student tour guides belong to campus clubs and organizations such as cheerleading and rugby. “It’s fun to guide the kids around campus and get a little dressed up ourselves,” said senior cheerleading captain Sarah Frey. “Not only does it give the kids of Winona a safe opportunity to trick-or-treat, but it also gives the community of Winona a look into our Saint Mary’s community (…) and is a great way for us, as a team, to be a part of that.”
Students can volunteer to lead groups around campus by signing up with their resident assistant or by contacting Thompson at ljthomp01@smumn.edu.
Violence awareness display comes to campus
BY KARINA RAJTAR
Editor in Chief
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Clothesline Project will be coming to Saint Mary’s University Oct. 26-30.
The Clothesline Project “brings awareness to all victims of domestic violence in all of Minnesota” from January to the present, said senior Amanda Mueller. Mueller is an intern at the Women’s Resource Center, which organizes the project. The display travels to various locations in Winona throughout the month of October to spread awareness through the entire community.
The stories, names and ages of the victims are attached to articles of clothing the victims would wear, and these are hung on a clothesline. Those who stop to read the accounts can learn what happened to both the victim and the perpetrator, Mueller said.
Anyone somehow affected by domestic violence is included. “It’s not just people who experienced domestic violence, but also people affected by it,” Mueller said. One example is an officer from the Twin Cities who died while responding to a domestic violence call, Mueller said.
The Women’s Resource Center is a nonprofit organization that works with victims of domestic abuse. The Center operates a 24-hour crisis line to assist anyone affected by domestic abuse. For more information about the Clothesline Project or the Women’s Resource Center, call 452-4440 or go to www.wrcofwinona.org.
Editor in Chief
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Clothesline Project will be coming to Saint Mary’s University Oct. 26-30.
The Clothesline Project “brings awareness to all victims of domestic violence in all of Minnesota” from January to the present, said senior Amanda Mueller. Mueller is an intern at the Women’s Resource Center, which organizes the project. The display travels to various locations in Winona throughout the month of October to spread awareness through the entire community.
The stories, names and ages of the victims are attached to articles of clothing the victims would wear, and these are hung on a clothesline. Those who stop to read the accounts can learn what happened to both the victim and the perpetrator, Mueller said.
Anyone somehow affected by domestic violence is included. “It’s not just people who experienced domestic violence, but also people affected by it,” Mueller said. One example is an officer from the Twin Cities who died while responding to a domestic violence call, Mueller said.
The Women’s Resource Center is a nonprofit organization that works with victims of domestic abuse. The Center operates a 24-hour crisis line to assist anyone affected by domestic abuse. For more information about the Clothesline Project or the Women’s Resource Center, call 452-4440 or go to www.wrcofwinona.org.
Chartwells offers declining balance option
BY ROBBY MCGUIRE
Cardinal Staff
For Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota students who may eat more than our current food balance can handle, Chartwells offers the declining balance option, which acts similar to a debit card.
These funds may be accessed through students’ I.D. cards and can be used in all three dining locations: The Cardinal Club, Cotter Café, and the Michael H. Toner Center Cafeteria. Students can deposit money at the Chartwells office located in the Toner cafeteria from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The declining balance option can be added to any meal plan, including faculty, staff, and both on- and off-campus students.
For more information, contact Curt Coshenet, Chartwells food service director, at ccoshene@smumn.edu.
Cardinal Staff
For Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota students who may eat more than our current food balance can handle, Chartwells offers the declining balance option, which acts similar to a debit card.
These funds may be accessed through students’ I.D. cards and can be used in all three dining locations: The Cardinal Club, Cotter Café, and the Michael H. Toner Center Cafeteria. Students can deposit money at the Chartwells office located in the Toner cafeteria from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The declining balance option can be added to any meal plan, including faculty, staff, and both on- and off-campus students.
For more information, contact Curt Coshenet, Chartwells food service director, at ccoshene@smumn.edu.
‘Cardinal Pride’ tees replace Movie Nest
BY SARA EISENHAUER
News Editor
The Saint Mary’s University Business Department liquidated the Movie Nest, an on-campus video rental service, due to declining sales over the past few years and plans to replace it with a new campus store, said Jana Schrenkler, assistant professor of business.
“Video rental is a dying industry, at least it is on campus,” said Schrenkler, who teaches the entrepreneurship class that previously operated the Movie Nest.
The Movie Nest first opened in the fall of 2002 as a way to “give students a real business to run,” Schrenkler said. The department received a Coleman grant that helped start the Movie Nest along with the entrepreneurship major. This semester’s entrepreneurship class was challenged to resolve the problem of the failing Movie Nest. Ten students were assigned to create a proposal for a new business, and ten others had to come up with a product to sell. Schrenkler said the department believes the project will “beef up the real, practical experience” students receive to help develop job-related skills.
“It’s a chance to take some theories and ideas we learn in class and experience them on a smaller level,” said Jared Jacobs, a senior in the entrepreneurship class.One group applied classroom knowledge to develop a larger store that will allow SMU community members to sell a variety of products such as art, crafts, clothing and other student-related products, Schrenkler said. The business will also support non-profit organizations such as the Winona Area Humane Society. The students will present the proposal to the department and then to the university beginning Oct. 30.
“I would love for (the store) to be a hub for all things student-related,” Schrenkler said.
The other group of students developed the new SMU “Pride” t-shirt, which Schrenkler hopes will be sold in the future store. The students held a design contest for a shirt that would display “Cardinal Pride,” a theme of SMU athletics. Schrenkler said she hopes the contest will continue each fall.
The shirts were sold from this week for $10 with profits going toward purchasing a set of large animal steps and office supplies for the Winona Area Humane Society.
News Editor
The Saint Mary’s University Business Department liquidated the Movie Nest, an on-campus video rental service, due to declining sales over the past few years and plans to replace it with a new campus store, said Jana Schrenkler, assistant professor of business.
“Video rental is a dying industry, at least it is on campus,” said Schrenkler, who teaches the entrepreneurship class that previously operated the Movie Nest.
The Movie Nest first opened in the fall of 2002 as a way to “give students a real business to run,” Schrenkler said. The department received a Coleman grant that helped start the Movie Nest along with the entrepreneurship major. This semester’s entrepreneurship class was challenged to resolve the problem of the failing Movie Nest. Ten students were assigned to create a proposal for a new business, and ten others had to come up with a product to sell. Schrenkler said the department believes the project will “beef up the real, practical experience” students receive to help develop job-related skills.
“It’s a chance to take some theories and ideas we learn in class and experience them on a smaller level,” said Jared Jacobs, a senior in the entrepreneurship class.One group applied classroom knowledge to develop a larger store that will allow SMU community members to sell a variety of products such as art, crafts, clothing and other student-related products, Schrenkler said. The business will also support non-profit organizations such as the Winona Area Humane Society. The students will present the proposal to the department and then to the university beginning Oct. 30.
“I would love for (the store) to be a hub for all things student-related,” Schrenkler said.
The other group of students developed the new SMU “Pride” t-shirt, which Schrenkler hopes will be sold in the future store. The students held a design contest for a shirt that would display “Cardinal Pride,” a theme of SMU athletics. Schrenkler said she hopes the contest will continue each fall.
The shirts were sold from this week for $10 with profits going toward purchasing a set of large animal steps and office supplies for the Winona Area Humane Society.
Building on bluffs faces restrictions
BY ASHLEY ACOSTA
Feature Editor
The Winona City Council is considering a plan to help protect archaeological resources, preserve the natural setting and minimize public costs associated with bluff development.
The proposal also addresses other issues such as height restrictions of structures and non-structures on bluffs, selective silvicultural crop harvesting on certain districts and the construction of paths, trails and stairs. The council introduced the Bluff Protection Ordinance at its meeting Monday, Oct. 19, in the first step in approving the ordinance, said City Clerk Monica Mohan. The second step is generally to adopt the ordinance at a subsequent meeting, but the council suggested provisions to the ordinance before it can be passed. The ordinance will come before the council again Nov. 16, after ammendments have been made, Mohan said.
Under the ordinance, all available bluff area, also known as the Bluff Impact Overlay District, must be displayed on the city’s zoning map. City PlannerMarkMoeller said if the land falls within 150 feet of the district, the applicant must hire a professional to notify the city that an archaeological survey must be conducted to search for remains and artifacts before a permit can be granted.
Moeller said the application process includes the recognition of high potential burial grounds and archaeological sites on the desired land. According to Moeller, the archaeological survey is split into two phases. Phase 1 consists of an archaeological
dig to examine the land for any general artifacts and remains. Once the Phase 1 survey is completed, the applicant must submit the results of the survey to city officials as well as the local American Indian tribes and organizations: Prairie Island Indian, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux and Lower Sioux Indian Communities Tribal Councils and the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate and Minnesota Indian Affairs Council. According to the report, upon receiving this document, tribal offices have 30 days to send comments to the city.
The proposal states, “The final report which consists of the comments and recommendations of Tribal Councils, and the State Archaeologist shall be considered prior to approving any Land Disturbance Activity Permit Application.”
In addition, if any significant archaeological resources are found at the site during either Phase 1 or Phase 2, state archaeologists can recommend to protect and preserve that land, resulting in the denial of a Land Disturbance Permit.
Feature Editor
The Winona City Council is considering a plan to help protect archaeological resources, preserve the natural setting and minimize public costs associated with bluff development.
The proposal also addresses other issues such as height restrictions of structures and non-structures on bluffs, selective silvicultural crop harvesting on certain districts and the construction of paths, trails and stairs. The council introduced the Bluff Protection Ordinance at its meeting Monday, Oct. 19, in the first step in approving the ordinance, said City Clerk Monica Mohan. The second step is generally to adopt the ordinance at a subsequent meeting, but the council suggested provisions to the ordinance before it can be passed. The ordinance will come before the council again Nov. 16, after ammendments have been made, Mohan said.
Under the ordinance, all available bluff area, also known as the Bluff Impact Overlay District, must be displayed on the city’s zoning map. City PlannerMarkMoeller said if the land falls within 150 feet of the district, the applicant must hire a professional to notify the city that an archaeological survey must be conducted to search for remains and artifacts before a permit can be granted.
Moeller said the application process includes the recognition of high potential burial grounds and archaeological sites on the desired land. According to Moeller, the archaeological survey is split into two phases. Phase 1 consists of an archaeological
dig to examine the land for any general artifacts and remains. Once the Phase 1 survey is completed, the applicant must submit the results of the survey to city officials as well as the local American Indian tribes and organizations: Prairie Island Indian, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux and Lower Sioux Indian Communities Tribal Councils and the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate and Minnesota Indian Affairs Council. According to the report, upon receiving this document, tribal offices have 30 days to send comments to the city.
The proposal states, “The final report which consists of the comments and recommendations of Tribal Councils, and the State Archaeologist shall be considered prior to approving any Land Disturbance Activity Permit Application.”
In addition, if any significant archaeological resources are found at the site during either Phase 1 or Phase 2, state archaeologists can recommend to protect and preserve that land, resulting in the denial of a Land Disturbance Permit.
Students raise money for St. Jude hospital
BY TRAVIS FICK
Managing Editor
On Nov. 19, Saint Mary’s University will hold its first Up ‘Til Dawn event to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Up ‘Til Dawn is an event in which participants write letters to friends and family members asking them to donate money to St. Jude.
“No patient is expected to pay what insurance wont cover for their care at St. Jude,” said Grace Hansen, executive director of Up ‘Til Dawn, in an email. “St. Jude costs $1.4 million per day to run, which is why events like Up ‘Til Dawn are necessary.”
The event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, in the Michael H. Toner Center Cafeteria. Participants are asked to bring a minimum of 35 contacts to mail letters to. “The letters have already been written by St. Jude,” said Hansen. “So the students’ only task is to address the envelope and turn in the letters.”
Participants are asked to sign up in groups of five. “The only reason we ask that students sign up in teams is (so) they will feel more comfortable coming to the event and be able to have fun with close friends while writing their letters,” said Hansen.
All participants will receive a free tshirt, and after they complete their letters, free food and entertainment will be provided. Participants will also be entered into a drawing for a prize. So far, 65 people have signed up to participate in the event. Hansen said her goal is for 150-200 people to complete 35 letters each. “People seem a little hesitant to sign up; maybe because they believe a lot will be expected of them,” said Hansen. “The truth is, very little is expected of them. They only need 35 names and addresses.”
St. Jude is a non-profit organization that specializes in the research and treatment of cancer and other childhood diseases. Anyone who wishes to participate in Up ‘Til Dawn can contact Grace Hansen at mghans06@smumn.edu by Nov. 12.
Managing Editor
On Nov. 19, Saint Mary’s University will hold its first Up ‘Til Dawn event to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Up ‘Til Dawn is an event in which participants write letters to friends and family members asking them to donate money to St. Jude.
“No patient is expected to pay what insurance wont cover for their care at St. Jude,” said Grace Hansen, executive director of Up ‘Til Dawn, in an email. “St. Jude costs $1.4 million per day to run, which is why events like Up ‘Til Dawn are necessary.”
The event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, in the Michael H. Toner Center Cafeteria. Participants are asked to bring a minimum of 35 contacts to mail letters to. “The letters have already been written by St. Jude,” said Hansen. “So the students’ only task is to address the envelope and turn in the letters.”
Participants are asked to sign up in groups of five. “The only reason we ask that students sign up in teams is (so) they will feel more comfortable coming to the event and be able to have fun with close friends while writing their letters,” said Hansen.
All participants will receive a free tshirt, and after they complete their letters, free food and entertainment will be provided. Participants will also be entered into a drawing for a prize. So far, 65 people have signed up to participate in the event. Hansen said her goal is for 150-200 people to complete 35 letters each. “People seem a little hesitant to sign up; maybe because they believe a lot will be expected of them,” said Hansen. “The truth is, very little is expected of them. They only need 35 names and addresses.”
St. Jude is a non-profit organization that specializes in the research and treatment of cancer and other childhood diseases. Anyone who wishes to participate in Up ‘Til Dawn can contact Grace Hansen at mghans06@smumn.edu by Nov. 12.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Biodiesel machine, electric trucks aim to keep campus ‘green’
BY AMY WULFF
Cardinal Staff
Students may have seen the little red trucks driving around Saint Mary’s University’s campus, both on roads and on sidewalks, zipping around in their tiny truck way.
The red electric trucks were purchased by the Maintenance Department about three years ago in an effort to reduce gas costs and to provide quick and convenient transportation for campus personnel. Along with these little electric trucks, maintenance has recently purchased a biodiesel maker, which can take cooking oil from the cafeteria and convert it to diesel. Biodiesel production is relatively common, but it is a tricky process, and the first trial did not turn out so well. However, John Schollmeier, director of maintenance said, when production is done right, diesel expenditures could be cut in half. With approximately 250 gallons of diesel used each month, that would be significant.
Maintenance uses about 300 gallons of gasoline a month on the entire fleet of cars and electric trucks, and Schollmeier said the electric trucks can be given some credit for that. Schollmeier said the convenience of the tiny machines, which are stocked
with all the tools one might need to fix almost anything, allow them to be driven up to any building that needs fixing, and they are great to use when traveling around campus.
At night, the red trucks are plugged in. Their batteries are efficient and rarely break, giving them good record and usability ratings, said Schollmeier. With these little red trucks and the biodiesel machine, Schollmeier said maintenance hopes to reduce both the amount of money that goes toward fuel for their cars and ensure that SMU is kept beautiful and clean.
Cardinal Staff
Students may have seen the little red trucks driving around Saint Mary’s University’s campus, both on roads and on sidewalks, zipping around in their tiny truck way.
The red electric trucks were purchased by the Maintenance Department about three years ago in an effort to reduce gas costs and to provide quick and convenient transportation for campus personnel. Along with these little electric trucks, maintenance has recently purchased a biodiesel maker, which can take cooking oil from the cafeteria and convert it to diesel. Biodiesel production is relatively common, but it is a tricky process, and the first trial did not turn out so well. However, John Schollmeier, director of maintenance said, when production is done right, diesel expenditures could be cut in half. With approximately 250 gallons of diesel used each month, that would be significant.
Maintenance uses about 300 gallons of gasoline a month on the entire fleet of cars and electric trucks, and Schollmeier said the electric trucks can be given some credit for that. Schollmeier said the convenience of the tiny machines, which are stocked
with all the tools one might need to fix almost anything, allow them to be driven up to any building that needs fixing, and they are great to use when traveling around campus.
At night, the red trucks are plugged in. Their batteries are efficient and rarely break, giving them good record and usability ratings, said Schollmeier. With these little red trucks and the biodiesel machine, Schollmeier said maintenance hopes to reduce both the amount of money that goes toward fuel for their cars and ensure that SMU is kept beautiful and clean.
Moore auditions for So You Think You Can Dance
BY ANDREA ALLIS
Cardinal Staff
This past July in Salt Lake City, Saint Mary’s University sophomore Bryan Moore auditioned for a spot on Fox’s hit show So
You Think You Can Dance.
A contemporary jazz dancer from Woodbury, Minn., Moore began dancing at the age of ten. When the first season of So
You Think You Can Dance aired six years later, he was immediately captivated. “I’d always joke with my friends about trying out for the show, but it was just this summer that I realized this was something I actually wanted to do,” Moore said. “I wanted
to be spontaneous and step out of my comfort zone.”
Moore started preparing a solo in June, as well as taking dance classes to get in shape for the extensive audition process.
“What most viewers don’t know is how many steps to the audition there actually are,” Moore said.
Before contestants are allowed to perform their solos in front of the judges, they must make it past a number of audition processes that do not appear on television. The first few rounds rely heavily on personality. “It doesn’t matter how great a dancer you are,” said Moore. “There were some phenomenal dancers that got cut right away simply because they didn’t connect with the producers.”
Moore made it through the first day of auditions but was cut just before he was able to perform his solo for the judges. However, Moore said he was happy to have made it as far as he did.
“I came into it with no expectations but doing my best,” said Moore. “I really just did it for the experience — for myself.” “I would love to audition again,” Moore said. “Feeling the electricity of the hundreds of people there to audition was amazing. You could definitely feel how much everyone wanted it, and it makes you want it that much more.”
Cardinal Staff
This past July in Salt Lake City, Saint Mary’s University sophomore Bryan Moore auditioned for a spot on Fox’s hit show So
You Think You Can Dance.
A contemporary jazz dancer from Woodbury, Minn., Moore began dancing at the age of ten. When the first season of So
You Think You Can Dance aired six years later, he was immediately captivated. “I’d always joke with my friends about trying out for the show, but it was just this summer that I realized this was something I actually wanted to do,” Moore said. “I wanted
to be spontaneous and step out of my comfort zone.”
Moore started preparing a solo in June, as well as taking dance classes to get in shape for the extensive audition process.
“What most viewers don’t know is how many steps to the audition there actually are,” Moore said.
Before contestants are allowed to perform their solos in front of the judges, they must make it past a number of audition processes that do not appear on television. The first few rounds rely heavily on personality. “It doesn’t matter how great a dancer you are,” said Moore. “There were some phenomenal dancers that got cut right away simply because they didn’t connect with the producers.”
Moore made it through the first day of auditions but was cut just before he was able to perform his solo for the judges. However, Moore said he was happy to have made it as far as he did.
“I came into it with no expectations but doing my best,” said Moore. “I really just did it for the experience — for myself.” “I would love to audition again,” Moore said. “Feeling the electricity of the hundreds of people there to audition was amazing. You could definitely feel how much everyone wanted it, and it makes you want it that much more.”
Theresa Breault: published author at age 18
BY BECCA SANDAGER
Copy Editor
Saint Mary’s University junior Theresa Breault is not just a student; she is a published author as well.
Breault is the author of The Enchantress, a three part mini fantasy trilogy that tells the story of Aurora, a high school student who discovers she is the “Enchantress.” As the Enchantress, Aurora guards the good in the dimensions (levels of worlds) from Daoi, an evil man who seeks to take the place of Aurora as Enchantress.
Breault’s idea for The Enchantress started from only a name. After seeing the opening scene of Beauty and the Beast, she liked that name and wanted to create a character in her book after it.
“I was at a basketball game and suddenly got a scene,” said Breault. “I stole notebook paper from a friend and wrote six to seven pages right there.” Breault finished writing The Enchantress when she was 15 and spent the next two years working on getting it published. Her only specifications were that it was not published online, she did not publish it herself, and she would
not have to pay to get it published.
“I sent out a query (short excerpt) and got six or seven rejection letters telling me I was ‘too young,’” Breault said. “Then I got two offers.” Breault settled with PublishAmerica of Frederick, Md. After three rounds of editing (first on her own, then by
PublishAmerica and once more herself), determining where the book would be sold, and other legalities, The Enchantress was ready to go to print. But, because she was only 17 at the time of the publishing offer, Breault said she had to wait until she was 18 to sign. “I signed the day after my 18 birthday March 31, 2007,” said Breault. The Enchantress was printed in November 2007.
“The first time I saw the cover, I was in the basement of Skemp on the computer next to a chick,” Breault said. “I freaked.” She said seeing her name next to “The” and “being able to open it up and see I wrote these words… amazing.”
Breault says her writing inspiration comes from people and conversations. “Pretty much everyone I know is a character to me,”
said Breault. “Everyone inspires me to write.”
Currently, Breault is working on an anthology of short stories: Pursue, The Kissing Club and Sexaholic all of which are set at SMU and have connected themes and emotions. “I’m just a mediocre writer from a small town,” said Breault. “But I can try, and I can dream.”
Breault’s advice for others who want to write or are trying to get their work published is: “Don’t write to get published. Write because you love it.” Breault said. “Writing is something I do for me that people happen to pay me for.”A copy of Breault’s The Enchantress can be purchased from Barnes & Nobles, Amazon or Borders.
Copy Editor
Saint Mary’s University junior Theresa Breault is not just a student; she is a published author as well.
Breault is the author of The Enchantress, a three part mini fantasy trilogy that tells the story of Aurora, a high school student who discovers she is the “Enchantress.” As the Enchantress, Aurora guards the good in the dimensions (levels of worlds) from Daoi, an evil man who seeks to take the place of Aurora as Enchantress.
Breault’s idea for The Enchantress started from only a name. After seeing the opening scene of Beauty and the Beast, she liked that name and wanted to create a character in her book after it.
“I was at a basketball game and suddenly got a scene,” said Breault. “I stole notebook paper from a friend and wrote six to seven pages right there.” Breault finished writing The Enchantress when she was 15 and spent the next two years working on getting it published. Her only specifications were that it was not published online, she did not publish it herself, and she would
not have to pay to get it published.
“I sent out a query (short excerpt) and got six or seven rejection letters telling me I was ‘too young,’” Breault said. “Then I got two offers.” Breault settled with PublishAmerica of Frederick, Md. After three rounds of editing (first on her own, then by
PublishAmerica and once more herself), determining where the book would be sold, and other legalities, The Enchantress was ready to go to print. But, because she was only 17 at the time of the publishing offer, Breault said she had to wait until she was 18 to sign. “I signed the day after my 18 birthday March 31, 2007,” said Breault. The Enchantress was printed in November 2007.
“The first time I saw the cover, I was in the basement of Skemp on the computer next to a chick,” Breault said. “I freaked.” She said seeing her name next to “The” and “being able to open it up and see I wrote these words… amazing.”
Breault says her writing inspiration comes from people and conversations. “Pretty much everyone I know is a character to me,”
said Breault. “Everyone inspires me to write.”
Currently, Breault is working on an anthology of short stories: Pursue, The Kissing Club and Sexaholic all of which are set at SMU and have connected themes and emotions. “I’m just a mediocre writer from a small town,” said Breault. “But I can try, and I can dream.”
Breault’s advice for others who want to write or are trying to get their work published is: “Don’t write to get published. Write because you love it.” Breault said. “Writing is something I do for me that people happen to pay me for.”A copy of Breault’s The Enchantress can be purchased from Barnes & Nobles, Amazon or Borders.
Hip-hop album to be released in January
BY ASHLEY ACOSTA
Feature Editor
Opportunity is something that is said to only come around once, and for Saint Mary’s University sophomore Harris Moses and his cousin, that chance came early.
This past summer, Moses and his cousin, Markie Gbor, spent three months recording their first hip-hop album, Grass Roots, for Deka Records based in California. “A lot of hip-hop artists write about the game, money, girls and clothes,” Moses said. “We write about things that are real.”
Moses began rapping as a senior in high school. Mainly a poetry writer, he found comfort in music and enjoyed the rhythm and lyrics that went along with hip-hop. While Gbor was recording some tracks in a friend’s basement, he encouraged Moses to give rapping a try. “I started, and it just began to flow,” Moses said. “The talent came out, and it was nice.”
After that the Minnesota natives from Brooklyn Park, calling themselves Peace and ProDuct, began writing, recording and mixing their own music out of their basement. The duo composes its music using a trial and error type of method. “We like to write while we listen to the instrumentals,” said Moses. “I sit, let the instrumental play and feel the music to see what fits.”
Moses and Gbor spent the next three years writing and performing their music at local events. Then, opportunity struck.
“I received a message from an independent music label offering us a one album release,” Gbor said. “I told him (Moses) about it, and all he said was, ‘what are we waiting for?’” Not only do the cousins have their own album, but they also have started their own independent record label called Open Book Records.
“Artists usually start their own label as a way of promotion,” said Moses. The label is in the process of state incorporation and is working on recording music and artists at the international level. “I don’t do it (music) for the money,” said Moses, “I do it for the passion and love of entertaining, writing and getting to the opportunity to say what I want to say.”
Tracks from Grass Roots are expected to be available on iTunes within the next few months. To hear tracks by Peace and ProDuct, go to their website at www.myspace.com/openbookrecords.
Feature Editor
Opportunity is something that is said to only come around once, and for Saint Mary’s University sophomore Harris Moses and his cousin, that chance came early.
This past summer, Moses and his cousin, Markie Gbor, spent three months recording their first hip-hop album, Grass Roots, for Deka Records based in California. “A lot of hip-hop artists write about the game, money, girls and clothes,” Moses said. “We write about things that are real.”
Moses began rapping as a senior in high school. Mainly a poetry writer, he found comfort in music and enjoyed the rhythm and lyrics that went along with hip-hop. While Gbor was recording some tracks in a friend’s basement, he encouraged Moses to give rapping a try. “I started, and it just began to flow,” Moses said. “The talent came out, and it was nice.”
After that the Minnesota natives from Brooklyn Park, calling themselves Peace and ProDuct, began writing, recording and mixing their own music out of their basement. The duo composes its music using a trial and error type of method. “We like to write while we listen to the instrumentals,” said Moses. “I sit, let the instrumental play and feel the music to see what fits.”
Moses and Gbor spent the next three years writing and performing their music at local events. Then, opportunity struck.
“I received a message from an independent music label offering us a one album release,” Gbor said. “I told him (Moses) about it, and all he said was, ‘what are we waiting for?’” Not only do the cousins have their own album, but they also have started their own independent record label called Open Book Records.
“Artists usually start their own label as a way of promotion,” said Moses. The label is in the process of state incorporation and is working on recording music and artists at the international level. “I don’t do it (music) for the money,” said Moses, “I do it for the passion and love of entertaining, writing and getting to the opportunity to say what I want to say.”
Tracks from Grass Roots are expected to be available on iTunes within the next few months. To hear tracks by Peace and ProDuct, go to their website at www.myspace.com/openbookrecords.
May’s ‘Flock’ mosaic on display in Toner Center
BY EMMA STENZEL
Cardinal Staff
A piece of mosaic art created by Monta May, Saint Mary’s University’s director of web communications, is on display inside SMU’s Toner Center. The mosaic, entitled “Flock,” is composed of several pieces of colored glass assembled to form an image of five birds. According to May, the piece makes a statement about unity. “None of the birds are the same, yet they’re all together,” said May.
May began working on the piece in August of 2008 after she came across an elaborate mosaic in Chicago, Ill. Inspiration struck, and soon after May began researching mosaics, buying materials and practicing techniques. “I noticed mosaics everywhere, and I thought to myself, ‘I have to make mosaics,’” said May.
May said, she spent nearly 40 hours creating “Flock,” which was finished in November 2008. May continues to explore different methods of mosaics. She has created many pieces since “Flock” and teaches mosaic art at the Winona Art Center. Though mosaics can be time-consuming and expensive, May said she appreciates that she can connect the mosaic medium with ancient art forms. “I like to take ancient techniques and do something contemporary with them,” said May. “I see myself as part of an unbroken line of humans doing something.”
In addition to working with mosaics, May also weaves, sculpts, paints and takes photographs. “I think that it is important for people to keep art in their lives,” May said. “Art is such an important part of being human, and people often dismiss it. It’s just something humans are driven to do. We see it, hear it and live it. I really hope people can experience the art around them. Everybody can make art.”
For more information about May and her artwork, visit her website, www.montagael.blogspot.com.
Cardinal Staff
A piece of mosaic art created by Monta May, Saint Mary’s University’s director of web communications, is on display inside SMU’s Toner Center. The mosaic, entitled “Flock,” is composed of several pieces of colored glass assembled to form an image of five birds. According to May, the piece makes a statement about unity. “None of the birds are the same, yet they’re all together,” said May.
May began working on the piece in August of 2008 after she came across an elaborate mosaic in Chicago, Ill. Inspiration struck, and soon after May began researching mosaics, buying materials and practicing techniques. “I noticed mosaics everywhere, and I thought to myself, ‘I have to make mosaics,’” said May.
May said, she spent nearly 40 hours creating “Flock,” which was finished in November 2008. May continues to explore different methods of mosaics. She has created many pieces since “Flock” and teaches mosaic art at the Winona Art Center. Though mosaics can be time-consuming and expensive, May said she appreciates that she can connect the mosaic medium with ancient art forms. “I like to take ancient techniques and do something contemporary with them,” said May. “I see myself as part of an unbroken line of humans doing something.”
In addition to working with mosaics, May also weaves, sculpts, paints and takes photographs. “I think that it is important for people to keep art in their lives,” May said. “Art is such an important part of being human, and people often dismiss it. It’s just something humans are driven to do. We see it, hear it and live it. I really hope people can experience the art around them. Everybody can make art.”
For more information about May and her artwork, visit her website, www.montagael.blogspot.com.
Tornquist creates with paper and wire
BY JENNA CAPELLE
Cardinal Staff
Saint Mary’s University senior Peter Tornquist has an uncommon hobby: paper mache.
After ten years of working with clay, Tornquist thought he would try something new. He became fascinated by paper mache during his senior year of high school when a sculptor came to his art class with various paper mache sculptures that inspired him.
“Making paper mache lizards has taught me a lot about self-motivation,” said Tornquist. During his freshman year at SMU, Tornquist asked an art professor if he could use extra paints in the art room to play around with. He spent many hours and
crafted his first four lizards that year. In the spring of 2007, Tournquist entered his work in the “SMU Student Art Show” and took first prize.
“I was blown away because I’m not even an art major,” said Tornquist. “I was pretty proud of myself.” Tourquist said the process to develop one of his paper mache lizards is lengthy. He first creates a wire skeleton of the lizard. Depending on the body type, he uses wood filler putty for the bulky parts. He designs the intricate hands and feet of each lizard with wire before attaching them to the main frame. To create the skin, Tornquist mixes water and Elmer’s glue to make the newspaper hold on to the wire frame.
Painting the lizards is the most time-consuming and detailed part of the project. Tornquist uses tempera paint because it blends well when designing detail. He uses water to blend the colors together to create a realistic look. From start to finish, it takes Tornquist about a month for the final product to be accomplished.
Cardinal Staff
Saint Mary’s University senior Peter Tornquist has an uncommon hobby: paper mache.
After ten years of working with clay, Tornquist thought he would try something new. He became fascinated by paper mache during his senior year of high school when a sculptor came to his art class with various paper mache sculptures that inspired him.
“Making paper mache lizards has taught me a lot about self-motivation,” said Tornquist. During his freshman year at SMU, Tornquist asked an art professor if he could use extra paints in the art room to play around with. He spent many hours and
crafted his first four lizards that year. In the spring of 2007, Tournquist entered his work in the “SMU Student Art Show” and took first prize.
“I was blown away because I’m not even an art major,” said Tornquist. “I was pretty proud of myself.” Tourquist said the process to develop one of his paper mache lizards is lengthy. He first creates a wire skeleton of the lizard. Depending on the body type, he uses wood filler putty for the bulky parts. He designs the intricate hands and feet of each lizard with wire before attaching them to the main frame. To create the skin, Tornquist mixes water and Elmer’s glue to make the newspaper hold on to the wire frame.
Painting the lizards is the most time-consuming and detailed part of the project. Tornquist uses tempera paint because it blends well when designing detail. He uses water to blend the colors together to create a realistic look. From start to finish, it takes Tornquist about a month for the final product to be accomplished.
Frozen River Film Festival begins Jan. 27
BY JESSICA LACANNE
Cardinal Staff
Winona is getting ready for the Frozen River Film Festival (FRFF), which will take place this year beginning Wednesday, Jan. 27. The goal of FRFF is to educate students and expose information to the community that may not be common to hear. “The festival is about people of all ages and walks of life coming together to embrace world cultures and the environment,” said Jeanine Sorenson, a coordinator for FRFF.
The content of the films shown at the festival include world cultures, adventure, extreme sports and food. Crystal Hegge, creative director of FRFF, said, “Documentaries illustrating the state of our food in the global community will highlight the programming.”
After attending the FRFF, “you should walk out of a film a little unnerved about the world and what we accept,” said Sorenson. The films are meant to open the eyes of the public to changes that need to be made in the world in order to make it a better place. Sometimes, the creators of the films attend the festival, which gives the audience a chance to hear about the experiences firsthand. “Sitting with 100 people watching a movie is more meaningful than watching it by yourself at home,” said Sorensen. “When you go to a film, it becomes a social activity.”
At the beginning of the FRFF, there will be an adrenaline set of films. These films can include “anything from extreme trampolining to slacklining and bouldering,” said Hegge. The films focus on extreme sports and adventure to get the community pumped up and excited for the rest of the festival.
In addition to the films, the festival also provides speakers, music, workshops, vendors and an organic buffet.
Look for more information concerning the festival as January approaches.
Cardinal Staff
Winona is getting ready for the Frozen River Film Festival (FRFF), which will take place this year beginning Wednesday, Jan. 27. The goal of FRFF is to educate students and expose information to the community that may not be common to hear. “The festival is about people of all ages and walks of life coming together to embrace world cultures and the environment,” said Jeanine Sorenson, a coordinator for FRFF.
The content of the films shown at the festival include world cultures, adventure, extreme sports and food. Crystal Hegge, creative director of FRFF, said, “Documentaries illustrating the state of our food in the global community will highlight the programming.”
After attending the FRFF, “you should walk out of a film a little unnerved about the world and what we accept,” said Sorenson. The films are meant to open the eyes of the public to changes that need to be made in the world in order to make it a better place. Sometimes, the creators of the films attend the festival, which gives the audience a chance to hear about the experiences firsthand. “Sitting with 100 people watching a movie is more meaningful than watching it by yourself at home,” said Sorensen. “When you go to a film, it becomes a social activity.”
At the beginning of the FRFF, there will be an adrenaline set of films. These films can include “anything from extreme trampolining to slacklining and bouldering,” said Hegge. The films focus on extreme sports and adventure to get the community pumped up and excited for the rest of the festival.
In addition to the films, the festival also provides speakers, music, workshops, vendors and an organic buffet.
Look for more information concerning the festival as January approaches.
Iron Chef fundraiser challenges students’ culinary skills
BY ECHO CHRISTIAN
Cardinal Staff
The second annual Saint Mary’s University Iron Chef competition will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 8, in the Michael H. Toner Center Cafeteria.
The event was established last year as a fundraiser for Bethlehem University in Jerusalem, another Lasallian institution. The
proceeds of the competition go toward scholarships for 10 Gaza students who will attend Bethlehem University. Last year, the competition raised $2,000 to donate to the scholarships. This year, the goal is to raise awareness about the issues in Gaza and
Israel and to hopefully contribute an equal or greater amount to the scholarships, said Amira Sadek, a senior who helped create and implement the fundraiser. The scholarships pay for the students’ housing, food and education.
As the name Iron Chef suggests, the competition is based upon the concept of the Food Network’s show by the same name. Any student, faculty or staff member interested in competing may sign up to participate. Participants are divided into teams, and each team enters an entrée and a dessert cooked with the secret ingredient. Each dish must be able to serve at
least eight people. On the day of the event, three judges will go from team to team, taste-testing the entries. Those who attend the event will also be able to taste the entries. In the end, one team will be pronounced “Iron Chef.”
This year’s secret ingredient will be revealed to participants on Nov. 6, two days before the competition. Tickets cost $5 for adults and $3 dollars for students.
Cardinal Staff
The second annual Saint Mary’s University Iron Chef competition will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 8, in the Michael H. Toner Center Cafeteria.
The event was established last year as a fundraiser for Bethlehem University in Jerusalem, another Lasallian institution. The
proceeds of the competition go toward scholarships for 10 Gaza students who will attend Bethlehem University. Last year, the competition raised $2,000 to donate to the scholarships. This year, the goal is to raise awareness about the issues in Gaza and
Israel and to hopefully contribute an equal or greater amount to the scholarships, said Amira Sadek, a senior who helped create and implement the fundraiser. The scholarships pay for the students’ housing, food and education.
As the name Iron Chef suggests, the competition is based upon the concept of the Food Network’s show by the same name. Any student, faculty or staff member interested in competing may sign up to participate. Participants are divided into teams, and each team enters an entrée and a dessert cooked with the secret ingredient. Each dish must be able to serve at
least eight people. On the day of the event, three judges will go from team to team, taste-testing the entries. Those who attend the event will also be able to taste the entries. In the end, one team will be pronounced “Iron Chef.”
This year’s secret ingredient will be revealed to participants on Nov. 6, two days before the competition. Tickets cost $5 for adults and $3 dollars for students.
Vienna Boys Choir comes to Winona Nov. 8
BY LAUREN ROTHERING
Arts & Entertainment Editor
The Vienna Boys Choir will perform Nov. 8 at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels on the Saint Teresa campus as a special event of the Minnesota Beethoven Festival.
The Vienna Boys Choir has been in existence for more than 500 years and is considered one of the world’s best boys
choirs. The choir is divided into four subgroups. Each group is named after a famous Austrian composer: Brucknerchor, Haydnchor, Mozartchor and Schubertchor. The choirs still perform many pieces by these composers. The sub-groups share the touring, appearances in Vienna and vocal recording equally. Each choir has a choirmaster and two tutors who travel with the boys.
The sub-group Brucknerchor will be performing in Winona. Directed by choirmaster Manolo Cagnin, the boys have an average age of 11, making them the youngest of the four choirs. Brucknerchor spent the month of September filming and will be touring in the United States until December.
Although the choir is based in Vienna, its members come from several countries, including Germany, France, Hungary and
the United States. Overall, there are about 100 boys in the choir ranging in age from 10 to 14 years old, who perform
300 concerts a year. Tickets for the show are sold out. For more information, contact Ned Kirk, artistic and managing director for the Minnesota Beethoven Festival, at nkirk@smumn.edu.
Arts & Entertainment Editor
The Vienna Boys Choir will perform Nov. 8 at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels on the Saint Teresa campus as a special event of the Minnesota Beethoven Festival.
The Vienna Boys Choir has been in existence for more than 500 years and is considered one of the world’s best boys
choirs. The choir is divided into four subgroups. Each group is named after a famous Austrian composer: Brucknerchor, Haydnchor, Mozartchor and Schubertchor. The choirs still perform many pieces by these composers. The sub-groups share the touring, appearances in Vienna and vocal recording equally. Each choir has a choirmaster and two tutors who travel with the boys.
The sub-group Brucknerchor will be performing in Winona. Directed by choirmaster Manolo Cagnin, the boys have an average age of 11, making them the youngest of the four choirs. Brucknerchor spent the month of September filming and will be touring in the United States until December.
Although the choir is based in Vienna, its members come from several countries, including Germany, France, Hungary and
the United States. Overall, there are about 100 boys in the choir ranging in age from 10 to 14 years old, who perform
300 concerts a year. Tickets for the show are sold out. For more information, contact Ned Kirk, artistic and managing director for the Minnesota Beethoven Festival, at nkirk@smumn.edu.
Blue Angel is Nov. 6-7
BY SARAH MCDONOUGH
Cardinal Staff
The time has come for Saint Mary’s University students to showcase their talent with the 43rd annual Blue Angel variety show, hosted by the brothers of Phi Mu Alpha fraternity. Approximately two hours of music and comedic emceeing will take place at
8 p.m. Nov. 6 and 7 and 10 p.m. Nov. 7.
“My favorite act was two years ago,” said Lance Thompson, assistant activities director and Saint Benilde and Saint Yon’s hall director and a former member of Phi Mu Alpha. “They sang the ‘Farmer and the Nomad’ by Jayber Crow. The whole time they just stood on the edge of the stage and sang without microphones. It was really cool.”
The fraternity uses Blue Angel as a fundraiser to give scholarships, allow current brothers to get familiar with the sound equipment, buy new equipment and participate in Gifts for Winona. Blue Angel Auditions will be held today and tomorrow.
Cardinal Staff
The time has come for Saint Mary’s University students to showcase their talent with the 43rd annual Blue Angel variety show, hosted by the brothers of Phi Mu Alpha fraternity. Approximately two hours of music and comedic emceeing will take place at
8 p.m. Nov. 6 and 7 and 10 p.m. Nov. 7.
“My favorite act was two years ago,” said Lance Thompson, assistant activities director and Saint Benilde and Saint Yon’s hall director and a former member of Phi Mu Alpha. “They sang the ‘Farmer and the Nomad’ by Jayber Crow. The whole time they just stood on the edge of the stage and sang without microphones. It was really cool.”
The fraternity uses Blue Angel as a fundraiser to give scholarships, allow current brothers to get familiar with the sound equipment, buy new equipment and participate in Gifts for Winona. Blue Angel Auditions will be held today and tomorrow.
Movie Review: ‘The Fifth Element’
BY DIANA HERNANDEZ
Cardinal Staff
“Whoa, lady! I only speak two languages: English and bad English.” No other phrase could describe Korben Dallas
more perfectly. Bruce Willis stars as short-tempered Korben Dallas, a New York cab driver simply trying to make some money while still keeping his license and the city intact.
That is, until a beautiful woman literally falls in his back seat. There’s only one thing, he’s living hundreds of years into
the future in this 1997 film, “The Fifth Element.” Along with the supreme-being Leeloo, played by Milla Jovovich, Korben must fight to save the universe from Evil. The film is filled with flying car speed chases, kung fu, aliens, explosions and the
always hilarious Chris Tucker. What more could you ask for?
Bruce Willis is no stranger to action considering his past films, and Milla Jovovich gives an excellent performance playing
the key to salvation. But sci-fi fans beware: this film was made in 1997. Therefore, the special effects may not be up to your standards. The film itself has a comic book feel to it through colorful scenes, outrageous characters, and of course, the bad guy. If you’re a fan of films such as “Star Wars” or even Mel Brooks’ “Spaceballs,” I highly recommend you watch “The Fifth Element.”
“The Fifth Element” was nominated for an Oscar in 1998 for its effects and won an award for best fight during the MTV
Movie Awards that same year. “The Fifth Element” is rated PG-13 for intense sci-fi violence, some sexuality and brief nudity.
Cardinal Staff
“Whoa, lady! I only speak two languages: English and bad English.” No other phrase could describe Korben Dallas
more perfectly. Bruce Willis stars as short-tempered Korben Dallas, a New York cab driver simply trying to make some money while still keeping his license and the city intact.
That is, until a beautiful woman literally falls in his back seat. There’s only one thing, he’s living hundreds of years into
the future in this 1997 film, “The Fifth Element.” Along with the supreme-being Leeloo, played by Milla Jovovich, Korben must fight to save the universe from Evil. The film is filled with flying car speed chases, kung fu, aliens, explosions and the
always hilarious Chris Tucker. What more could you ask for?
Bruce Willis is no stranger to action considering his past films, and Milla Jovovich gives an excellent performance playing
the key to salvation. But sci-fi fans beware: this film was made in 1997. Therefore, the special effects may not be up to your standards. The film itself has a comic book feel to it through colorful scenes, outrageous characters, and of course, the bad guy. If you’re a fan of films such as “Star Wars” or even Mel Brooks’ “Spaceballs,” I highly recommend you watch “The Fifth Element.”
“The Fifth Element” was nominated for an Oscar in 1998 for its effects and won an award for best fight during the MTV
Movie Awards that same year. “The Fifth Element” is rated PG-13 for intense sci-fi violence, some sexuality and brief nudity.
International players bring perspective to men’s soccer
BY ALEXIS BOHLINGER
Cardinal Staff
The Saint Mary’s University men’s soccer team is bringing on an international storm. With a total of eight international students, the 2009 soccer team is one of the most diverse athletic teams SMU has ever seen. “We are lucky to have these guys,”
said Head Coach Chris Dembiec. “Their presence on the team gives a different perspective to what we do.”
The Cardinals recruted in four international players as freshman this year: Ovin Mummohan (England), Tom Onsembe (Kenya), Abdulai Habib (Nigeria) and Ji-Hoon Kim (South Korea). The team also has four returning upperclassmen from other countries: Jovenel D’Haiti (Haiti), Christian Reyes (Mexico), Jermaine Walker (Jamaica) and Juamaine Venter (South Africa).
The presence of international students in the SMU community gives both the American and the international students a
taste of a different culture. “My experience playing soccer here has been great, even though sometimes it is tough being a seminarian, a student and an athlete,” said Reyes. “I enjoy it a lot because it teaches me discipline, teamwork
and commitment.”
According to Dembiec, there are no collegiate athletics in Kenya, and there are so many soccer players in England that a lot of
people do not get the opportunity to play on an organized team. At SMU, these guys can receive a college education and play
a sport they love, said Dembiec. “I have met a family through soccer and friends who are loving, caring and kind thanks to the leadership of a coach whose personality never ceases to amaze me,” Onsembe said. Although Onsembe said he is not looking forward to about the cold weather in Minnesota, he is fully enjoying his experience at SMU, despite being so far away from home. “I found that some of our guys were very homesick,” Dembiec said. “But soccer really helped with the adjustment process because they immediately made 29 new friends.”
They love to play soccer, and that is why they have all come together to share in this experiencek, said Onsembe. “Every morning I wake up looking forward to the time practice starts. It’s never a disappointment.”
Cardinal Staff
The Saint Mary’s University men’s soccer team is bringing on an international storm. With a total of eight international students, the 2009 soccer team is one of the most diverse athletic teams SMU has ever seen. “We are lucky to have these guys,”
said Head Coach Chris Dembiec. “Their presence on the team gives a different perspective to what we do.”
The Cardinals recruted in four international players as freshman this year: Ovin Mummohan (England), Tom Onsembe (Kenya), Abdulai Habib (Nigeria) and Ji-Hoon Kim (South Korea). The team also has four returning upperclassmen from other countries: Jovenel D’Haiti (Haiti), Christian Reyes (Mexico), Jermaine Walker (Jamaica) and Juamaine Venter (South Africa).
The presence of international students in the SMU community gives both the American and the international students a
taste of a different culture. “My experience playing soccer here has been great, even though sometimes it is tough being a seminarian, a student and an athlete,” said Reyes. “I enjoy it a lot because it teaches me discipline, teamwork
and commitment.”
According to Dembiec, there are no collegiate athletics in Kenya, and there are so many soccer players in England that a lot of
people do not get the opportunity to play on an organized team. At SMU, these guys can receive a college education and play
a sport they love, said Dembiec. “I have met a family through soccer and friends who are loving, caring and kind thanks to the leadership of a coach whose personality never ceases to amaze me,” Onsembe said. Although Onsembe said he is not looking forward to about the cold weather in Minnesota, he is fully enjoying his experience at SMU, despite being so far away from home. “I found that some of our guys were very homesick,” Dembiec said. “But soccer really helped with the adjustment process because they immediately made 29 new friends.”
They love to play soccer, and that is why they have all come together to share in this experiencek, said Onsembe. “Every morning I wake up looking forward to the time practice starts. It’s never a disappointment.”
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Softball team’s Walk of Horror raises money for trip
BY EMILY DEE
Cardinal Staff
For the past 12 years, an annual event in October is Saint Mary’s University’s women’s softball team’s Walk of Horror.
“The walk of horror is a haunted trail that goes through the bluffs behind SMU, and it is put on by the SMU softball
team and other volunteers,” said junior Kellie Simons. “Basically, it’s like a haunted house, but you walk through the trails in the forest.”
The trail starts by the ropes course and ends by the day parking lot. Stations set up throughout the trails depict different haunted scenes. Having more space to work with makes it possible to set up certain effects that would not be as possible if
it were held within the confined spacing of a building. Projections are set up that play Halloween-themed scary movies designed with elements meant to spook the unsuspecting.
The Walk of Horror idea was started by John Tschida, former head coach of the softball team, as a fun and an efficient way for the team to make money. “The money raised goes towards the cost of the spring training trip,” said Simons. “This year the team is going to O.C. in California!” The Walk of Horror “is a fun way to get into the spirit of Halloween,” said Simons. “Despite what some people might think, the softball players never fall short of getting into character and scaring the people! Also, it’s cheap and supports the school.”
The Walk of Horror begins Friday, Oct. 23. It is open to the general public and runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cardinal Staff
For the past 12 years, an annual event in October is Saint Mary’s University’s women’s softball team’s Walk of Horror.
“The walk of horror is a haunted trail that goes through the bluffs behind SMU, and it is put on by the SMU softball
team and other volunteers,” said junior Kellie Simons. “Basically, it’s like a haunted house, but you walk through the trails in the forest.”
The trail starts by the ropes course and ends by the day parking lot. Stations set up throughout the trails depict different haunted scenes. Having more space to work with makes it possible to set up certain effects that would not be as possible if
it were held within the confined spacing of a building. Projections are set up that play Halloween-themed scary movies designed with elements meant to spook the unsuspecting.
The Walk of Horror idea was started by John Tschida, former head coach of the softball team, as a fun and an efficient way for the team to make money. “The money raised goes towards the cost of the spring training trip,” said Simons. “This year the team is going to O.C. in California!” The Walk of Horror “is a fun way to get into the spirit of Halloween,” said Simons. “Despite what some people might think, the softball players never fall short of getting into character and scaring the people! Also, it’s cheap and supports the school.”
The Walk of Horror begins Friday, Oct. 23. It is open to the general public and runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Coaches use Red-White game to set men’s hockey varsity roster
BY SUZIE ROTH
Cardinal Staff
With the air getting crisper and the snow starting to fall, the time of year hockey players look forward to the
most has arrived: It is time for them to lace up their skates and play the game they love.
For the Saint Mary’s University men’s hockey team, this means playing the annual Red-White game. The main purpose for the Red-White game “is to see the players in a game situation, not just doing drills, but actually playing the game,” said Head Coach Bill Moore. “It also gives the players the chance to adjust to new teammates and play by NCAA standards.”
The Red-White game “is a tradition that has happened forever,” said last year’s hockey captain, senior Jeff Miller. “It gives the guys a chance to put their bodies in the game setting and show who really wants to play.”
To prepare for the upcoming Red-White game and hockey tryouts, seniors Nick Carlson and Miller organized optional preseason practices and workouts for men to participate in.
After having an “awesome” experience last year, Coach Moore said he is ready to get his second season as head coach underway. “It is fun as an alum to come back,” Moore said. “I enjoyed taking over for Don Olson because he was my mentor and former coach, but the hardest time of the year for me is the wait from mid- August to mid-October until practices can start.” This season, Coach Moore plans to implement a few new policies for the hockey program. Not only will players be held to a code of conduct on and off the ice, but the team will be seeking more opportunities to provide service within the community. Moore also intends to have players work on “balancing skill development with fun.” The hockey program’s biggest strength, according to Moore, is the players’ renewed desire to turn the program around. Moore states that the work ethic of the team is
“tremendous,” and in the end, he wants players to remember that “it’s a game, and there are ways to have fun along with working hard.”
Players’ performances during the Oct. 18 Red-White game was a key deciding factor for Moore, along with assistant coaches Ryan Egan and J. Reszka, as they determined the members of the 2009-10 varsity team. Moore said the varsity team is made up of a roster of 26 players, but the main roster can be modified using players from the junior varsity team throughout the season.
The first SMU men’s hockey home game is 7 p.m. Nov. 21 against Hamline University.
*Update: the White team defeated the Red team 6 - 1 with sophomore Paul Dettling scoring three goals.
Cardinal Staff
With the air getting crisper and the snow starting to fall, the time of year hockey players look forward to the
most has arrived: It is time for them to lace up their skates and play the game they love.
For the Saint Mary’s University men’s hockey team, this means playing the annual Red-White game. The main purpose for the Red-White game “is to see the players in a game situation, not just doing drills, but actually playing the game,” said Head Coach Bill Moore. “It also gives the players the chance to adjust to new teammates and play by NCAA standards.”
The Red-White game “is a tradition that has happened forever,” said last year’s hockey captain, senior Jeff Miller. “It gives the guys a chance to put their bodies in the game setting and show who really wants to play.”
To prepare for the upcoming Red-White game and hockey tryouts, seniors Nick Carlson and Miller organized optional preseason practices and workouts for men to participate in.
After having an “awesome” experience last year, Coach Moore said he is ready to get his second season as head coach underway. “It is fun as an alum to come back,” Moore said. “I enjoyed taking over for Don Olson because he was my mentor and former coach, but the hardest time of the year for me is the wait from mid- August to mid-October until practices can start.” This season, Coach Moore plans to implement a few new policies for the hockey program. Not only will players be held to a code of conduct on and off the ice, but the team will be seeking more opportunities to provide service within the community. Moore also intends to have players work on “balancing skill development with fun.” The hockey program’s biggest strength, according to Moore, is the players’ renewed desire to turn the program around. Moore states that the work ethic of the team is
“tremendous,” and in the end, he wants players to remember that “it’s a game, and there are ways to have fun along with working hard.”
Players’ performances during the Oct. 18 Red-White game was a key deciding factor for Moore, along with assistant coaches Ryan Egan and J. Reszka, as they determined the members of the 2009-10 varsity team. Moore said the varsity team is made up of a roster of 26 players, but the main roster can be modified using players from the junior varsity team throughout the season.
The first SMU men’s hockey home game is 7 p.m. Nov. 21 against Hamline University.
*Update: the White team defeated the Red team 6 - 1 with sophomore Paul Dettling scoring three goals.
CARDINAL PROFILES
BY SARAH MCDONOUGH
Cardinal staff
Name: Amy Kujak
Class: Sophomore
Sport: Volleyball
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: River Falls, Wis.
High School: River Falls
Name: Jovenel D’Haiti
Class: Junior
Sport: Soccer
Major: Undecided
Hometown: Evanston, Ill.
High School: Evanston
What made you decide on SMU as your
college choice?
Kujak: I decided on SMU because I knew I really liked the Winona area, but I was not sure I wanted to go to Winona State. I met and talked to the SMU assistant volleyball coach and really liked what he said about the campus and the volleyball program. Once I came on a college visit, I knew this is where I would attend because the people were so nice and the campus just felt
like home.
D’Haiti: My friend Jermaine Walker told me about SMU. I liked the small class sizes. When I came to visit and sat in on a class, I
liked how the professors were hands-on and personal.
What is your favorite part about SMU
athletics?
Kujak: My favorite part about SMU athletics is how close our team is and how the athletics bring a certain buzz and excitement to the campus.
D’Haiti: I like how close our team is. We get together all the time and hang out outside of soccer.
What is your favorite athletics moment?
Kujak: Probably when we (SMU) beat Saint Ben’s during our first playoff match last year. Everyone played so well, and we
were all so happy.
D’Haiti: My freshman year for the first game of the season; I scored the game-winning goal.
Who is your favorite professional athlete?
Kujak: This is a tough one. There are so many amazing and talented athletes, and it is very hard to pick one, but if I had to I
would pick Michael Jordan. His dedication to the game is amazing and his determination
thrilling.
D’Haiti: Kobe Bryant. I’ve been watching him before everybody else started watching him. He is the best basketball player ever, besides Michael Jordan.
Cardinal staff
Name: Amy Kujak
Class: Sophomore
Sport: Volleyball
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: River Falls, Wis.
High School: River Falls
Name: Jovenel D’Haiti
Class: Junior
Sport: Soccer
Major: Undecided
Hometown: Evanston, Ill.
High School: Evanston
What made you decide on SMU as your
college choice?
Kujak: I decided on SMU because I knew I really liked the Winona area, but I was not sure I wanted to go to Winona State. I met and talked to the SMU assistant volleyball coach and really liked what he said about the campus and the volleyball program. Once I came on a college visit, I knew this is where I would attend because the people were so nice and the campus just felt
like home.
D’Haiti: My friend Jermaine Walker told me about SMU. I liked the small class sizes. When I came to visit and sat in on a class, I
liked how the professors were hands-on and personal.
What is your favorite part about SMU
athletics?
Kujak: My favorite part about SMU athletics is how close our team is and how the athletics bring a certain buzz and excitement to the campus.
D’Haiti: I like how close our team is. We get together all the time and hang out outside of soccer.
What is your favorite athletics moment?
Kujak: Probably when we (SMU) beat Saint Ben’s during our first playoff match last year. Everyone played so well, and we
were all so happy.
D’Haiti: My freshman year for the first game of the season; I scored the game-winning goal.
Who is your favorite professional athlete?
Kujak: This is a tough one. There are so many amazing and talented athletes, and it is very hard to pick one, but if I had to I
would pick Michael Jordan. His dedication to the game is amazing and his determination
thrilling.
D’Haiti: Kobe Bryant. I’ve been watching him before everybody else started watching him. He is the best basketball player ever, besides Michael Jordan.
Sports Column: Coaching youth sports is rewarding
BY ALEX CONOVER
Sports Editor
My first season coaching junior high football will be over in a few days. Besides the low pay and long hours, it has been an interesting and rewarding experience. I’ll usually meet the kids down at the field around 3:45 p.m. They come dragging band instruments, backpacks and art projects. While tying their cleats, they incessantly chatter about the day’s events, so much that I need to remind them constantly to get their helmets on and go warm up. After a stretch, the coaches and I will put them
through a practice designed to get them ready for their next game. My team has 16 players, which leaves us with only five bench players during games. Regardless, we’ve still managed to amass a 4-2 record.
Things that are trivial to us “grown-ups” are big deals to my players. They’ll argue all day for the honor of leading stretches or calling the coin flip before a game. I often forget how emotionally fragile a seventh grader can be, as I’ve seen kids cry over being called fat, getting their feet stepped on or getting the breath knocked out of them. I want to tell them to suck it up, but I always have to remind myself that they’re only 13 years old.
I like almost all of the kids that I coach; the ones that rub me the wrong way are the ones that I can tell aren’t trying. My favorites aren’t the guys who are the most skilled; rather, they’re the ones who I can see are giving the extra effort. One of my favorite players is the shortest and skinniest kid on the team; he has a stutter when he talks and his hair goes over his eyes when he has his helmet on. Despite all of these shortcomings, he continues to impress me with how hard he works on the field. When the other kids are fooling around at practice, he’s the one looking me in the eye and absorbing what I’m trying to teach him.
Although I’m planning on becoming a teacher after I graduate, I highly recommend coaching youth sports to any former athlete, regardless of major. You’ll have some fun, make a little bit of money and help kids succeed.
Sports Editor
My first season coaching junior high football will be over in a few days. Besides the low pay and long hours, it has been an interesting and rewarding experience. I’ll usually meet the kids down at the field around 3:45 p.m. They come dragging band instruments, backpacks and art projects. While tying their cleats, they incessantly chatter about the day’s events, so much that I need to remind them constantly to get their helmets on and go warm up. After a stretch, the coaches and I will put them
through a practice designed to get them ready for their next game. My team has 16 players, which leaves us with only five bench players during games. Regardless, we’ve still managed to amass a 4-2 record.
Things that are trivial to us “grown-ups” are big deals to my players. They’ll argue all day for the honor of leading stretches or calling the coin flip before a game. I often forget how emotionally fragile a seventh grader can be, as I’ve seen kids cry over being called fat, getting their feet stepped on or getting the breath knocked out of them. I want to tell them to suck it up, but I always have to remind myself that they’re only 13 years old.
I like almost all of the kids that I coach; the ones that rub me the wrong way are the ones that I can tell aren’t trying. My favorites aren’t the guys who are the most skilled; rather, they’re the ones who I can see are giving the extra effort. One of my favorite players is the shortest and skinniest kid on the team; he has a stutter when he talks and his hair goes over his eyes when he has his helmet on. Despite all of these shortcomings, he continues to impress me with how hard he works on the field. When the other kids are fooling around at practice, he’s the one looking me in the eye and absorbing what I’m trying to teach him.
Although I’m planning on becoming a teacher after I graduate, I highly recommend coaching youth sports to any former athlete, regardless of major. You’ll have some fun, make a little bit of money and help kids succeed.
Men’s and women’s hockey scrimmage Oct. 25
BY SARA EISENHAUER
News Editor
The Cardinal women’s and men’s hockey teams will host a boot hockey scrimmage at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, in the plaza to celebrate the beginning of the Cardinal hockey season.
The women’s team will be taking entries for raffle prizes, including a Saint Mary’s University hockey jersey, restaurant gift certificates and more. The prizes will be raffled off at the first women’s hockey game at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, at the SMU Ice Arena.
News Editor
The Cardinal women’s and men’s hockey teams will host a boot hockey scrimmage at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, in the plaza to celebrate the beginning of the Cardinal hockey season.
The women’s team will be taking entries for raffle prizes, including a Saint Mary’s University hockey jersey, restaurant gift certificates and more. The prizes will be raffled off at the first women’s hockey game at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, at the SMU Ice Arena.
Ask Angel
Dear Angel,
I have noticed many signs around campus regarding breast cancer, not to mention other activities such as the “Pink Party.” My question: while I understand that breast cancer can be a problem in older women, why are we spending time on this issue on a college campus?
Signed,
Not Time to Worry Yet
Dear “Not Time,”
While you are correct that, as women age, there is an increased risk of developing breast cancer, it can occur at any age. In addition, men can also develop breast cancer (the overall ratio is 1 male for every 100 females). Knowing risks, making healthy lifestyle choices and age appropriate screening has been shown to significantly improve survival rates among those diagnosed with breast cancer. Learning this now and developing positive habits is vital in the prevention, detection and successful treatment of breast cancer.
Knowing your risk factors is important. Some risk factors such as your weight, diet, smoking and exercise can be controlled by choices an individual makes. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, avoiding high fat diets, being tobacco free and limiting alcohol intake reduces the risk of developing breast cancer (as well as many other cancers). Other factors such as gender, age and family history cannot be controlled but knowing what to look and following recommended practices can lead to early diagnosis, treatment and cure.
All women (of any age) should do monthly self-breast exams, generally a week after the completion of their period. Women between the ages of 20 and 40 should have a clinical breast exam at least every three years. At age 40, women should have annual clinical exams and mammograms. Women who have an increased risk of breast cancer due to a personal family history, personal history of benign breast disease, certain menstrual cycle patterns, a high fat intake or obesity may need to be screened earlier or more frequently. Men should be aware of risk factors that could make them more at risk for developing breast cancer. This includes the genetic condition referred to as Klinefelters syndrome, family members (male or female) diagnosed with breast cancer, chronic liver disorders, alcoholism or obesity. If these risk factors are present, a discussion with your family doctor is encouraged.
Sincerely,
Angel
Questions can be directed to Angel via email at aweisbro @smumn.edu or via phone at Ext. 1493
I have noticed many signs around campus regarding breast cancer, not to mention other activities such as the “Pink Party.” My question: while I understand that breast cancer can be a problem in older women, why are we spending time on this issue on a college campus?
Signed,
Not Time to Worry Yet
Dear “Not Time,”
While you are correct that, as women age, there is an increased risk of developing breast cancer, it can occur at any age. In addition, men can also develop breast cancer (the overall ratio is 1 male for every 100 females). Knowing risks, making healthy lifestyle choices and age appropriate screening has been shown to significantly improve survival rates among those diagnosed with breast cancer. Learning this now and developing positive habits is vital in the prevention, detection and successful treatment of breast cancer.
Knowing your risk factors is important. Some risk factors such as your weight, diet, smoking and exercise can be controlled by choices an individual makes. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, avoiding high fat diets, being tobacco free and limiting alcohol intake reduces the risk of developing breast cancer (as well as many other cancers). Other factors such as gender, age and family history cannot be controlled but knowing what to look and following recommended practices can lead to early diagnosis, treatment and cure.
All women (of any age) should do monthly self-breast exams, generally a week after the completion of their period. Women between the ages of 20 and 40 should have a clinical breast exam at least every three years. At age 40, women should have annual clinical exams and mammograms. Women who have an increased risk of breast cancer due to a personal family history, personal history of benign breast disease, certain menstrual cycle patterns, a high fat intake or obesity may need to be screened earlier or more frequently. Men should be aware of risk factors that could make them more at risk for developing breast cancer. This includes the genetic condition referred to as Klinefelters syndrome, family members (male or female) diagnosed with breast cancer, chronic liver disorders, alcoholism or obesity. If these risk factors are present, a discussion with your family doctor is encouraged.
Sincerely,
Angel
Questions can be directed to Angel via email at aweisbro @smumn.edu or via phone at Ext. 1493
Student Concerns Column: ‘iPod’ survey a success
BY BRANDON WANLESS
Cardinal Staff
As the vice president for student life on the Saint Mary’s University Student Senate, I have responsibilities to address various student concerns regarding many aspects of students’ lives on campus. These include Chartwells Food Service, the RAC and other facilities, ResLife and Student Development. To help attend to these issues in a more universal manner, I will be writing for every issue of the Cardinal with updates on those issues which are most widely important to the student body. For this first column, I wish only to bring attention to two items: how to express one’s concern, and the results and importance of the recent Chartwells “iPod” survey.
As far as I understand, many students have things to say to critique different aspects of life here at SMU. While much complaining will often happen among peers, all too often, what needs to be said is not actually said to those who can do something about it. This really is unnecessary. In fact, structures and persons are in place to help alleviate our seemingly devastating concerns, the best thing to do is to bring any and all issues first to your Resident Assistant or Community Assistant. They usually will point you in the right direction. You can also talk to your residence hall’s senate representative, who can bring concerns before the whole student senate body. Further, one of the most effective means of communicating your issue would be to e-mail me at ugstudentconcerns@smumn.edu. This is a great way to send directly to me those issues pertaining to a student’s life here at SMU.
Regarding the recent “iPod” survey for Chartwells, many participants were willing to make their voices heard. All in all, 287 students agreed to participate, of which were proportionally represented according to grade and gender. The purpose of the survey was to formulate a quick, over arching view of the state of Chartwells according to student perspective so as to make future adjustments more accurately and effectively. The survey was not to discover all that was wrong, but to discover the general thoughts of students’ opinions and tastes. According to Curt Coshenet, director of food service, the survey was quite the success. The more extensive on-line survey is still available through Oct. 31.
Cardinal Staff
As the vice president for student life on the Saint Mary’s University Student Senate, I have responsibilities to address various student concerns regarding many aspects of students’ lives on campus. These include Chartwells Food Service, the RAC and other facilities, ResLife and Student Development. To help attend to these issues in a more universal manner, I will be writing for every issue of the Cardinal with updates on those issues which are most widely important to the student body. For this first column, I wish only to bring attention to two items: how to express one’s concern, and the results and importance of the recent Chartwells “iPod” survey.
As far as I understand, many students have things to say to critique different aspects of life here at SMU. While much complaining will often happen among peers, all too often, what needs to be said is not actually said to those who can do something about it. This really is unnecessary. In fact, structures and persons are in place to help alleviate our seemingly devastating concerns, the best thing to do is to bring any and all issues first to your Resident Assistant or Community Assistant. They usually will point you in the right direction. You can also talk to your residence hall’s senate representative, who can bring concerns before the whole student senate body. Further, one of the most effective means of communicating your issue would be to e-mail me at ugstudentconcerns@smumn.edu. This is a great way to send directly to me those issues pertaining to a student’s life here at SMU.
Regarding the recent “iPod” survey for Chartwells, many participants were willing to make their voices heard. All in all, 287 students agreed to participate, of which were proportionally represented according to grade and gender. The purpose of the survey was to formulate a quick, over arching view of the state of Chartwells according to student perspective so as to make future adjustments more accurately and effectively. The survey was not to discover all that was wrong, but to discover the general thoughts of students’ opinions and tastes. According to Curt Coshenet, director of food service, the survey was quite the success. The more extensive on-line survey is still available through Oct. 31.
International Scoop: a student’s take on eastern Asian politics
BY AMYWULFF
Cardinal Staff
Last week, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited Russia in an attempt to improve ties with Moscow. After U.S. condemnations of Russia’s undemocratic practices, corruption and human rights violations, Clinton went to meet with both liberal activists and the Kremlin. Democratic rights activists in Russia have been speaking out for years and fearing for their lives. According to Fox News, prominent rights activist Lev Ponomaryov said Clinton understands how hard it is for rights defenders to work in Russia and noted the number of journalists and rights activists who have been killed in Russia in recent years. Clinton reported that she felt positive about the future of Russian democracy. Fox News said, “Critics, however, note that the words have not been followed by deeds.”
According to Xinhuanet.com, a source for Chinese news, Clinton’s visit to Russia wasn’t all about democracy, but about working together with other U.N. nations to improve issues including the Middle East, Iran, and North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea). Clinton, in her talks with the Russian secretary of state, suggested that the U.S. and Russia be leaders in world problemsolving.
Speaking of cooperating and doing deals, Russia and China just signed a multi-billion dollar economic and bilateral trade deal, according to CNN and Chinese state Media. Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao hosted Vladimir Putin in Beijing as the countries both celebrated their 60 years of working together (officially the Russia-China strategic cooperative partnership) and a new plan to share oil. One of the economic deals laid out at this meeting was a plan between Chinese and Russian banks, and another was the plan to exchange energy. According to CNN, the construction on the China section of an oil pipeline from Siberia started in May. This pipeline will allow China and Russia to share energy and ensure gas prices do not fluctuate too much. “It is expected to carry 15 million tons of crude oil annually from Russia to China from 2011 to 2030.”
And while we are speaking of East Asia, North Korea has some interested plans coming up. This month, according to NewsVOA, they have agreed to engage in talks with South Korea over a number of significant issues to the region. First, South Korea wants its citizens to be able to visit relatives that had been separated by the 1950s war. Second, they want to talk about managing shared waterways. Last month, North Korea “suddenly released water from a dam, flooding camping areas in the South and six South Koreans drown,” according to News VOA. Strangely, after agreeing to these talks, North Korea did a series of short-range missile tests. Even stranger: the South is not concerned. News VOA echoes my feelings when it says, “Whether it is intended or not, the missile launches serve as an implicit reminder to South Korea of the North’s ability to inflict massive damage on very short notice.” I hope those talks work! As always, dear reader, there is a world outside Saint Mary’s! Be part of it!
Cardinal Staff
Last week, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited Russia in an attempt to improve ties with Moscow. After U.S. condemnations of Russia’s undemocratic practices, corruption and human rights violations, Clinton went to meet with both liberal activists and the Kremlin. Democratic rights activists in Russia have been speaking out for years and fearing for their lives. According to Fox News, prominent rights activist Lev Ponomaryov said Clinton understands how hard it is for rights defenders to work in Russia and noted the number of journalists and rights activists who have been killed in Russia in recent years. Clinton reported that she felt positive about the future of Russian democracy. Fox News said, “Critics, however, note that the words have not been followed by deeds.”
According to Xinhuanet.com, a source for Chinese news, Clinton’s visit to Russia wasn’t all about democracy, but about working together with other U.N. nations to improve issues including the Middle East, Iran, and North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea). Clinton, in her talks with the Russian secretary of state, suggested that the U.S. and Russia be leaders in world problemsolving.
Speaking of cooperating and doing deals, Russia and China just signed a multi-billion dollar economic and bilateral trade deal, according to CNN and Chinese state Media. Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao hosted Vladimir Putin in Beijing as the countries both celebrated their 60 years of working together (officially the Russia-China strategic cooperative partnership) and a new plan to share oil. One of the economic deals laid out at this meeting was a plan between Chinese and Russian banks, and another was the plan to exchange energy. According to CNN, the construction on the China section of an oil pipeline from Siberia started in May. This pipeline will allow China and Russia to share energy and ensure gas prices do not fluctuate too much. “It is expected to carry 15 million tons of crude oil annually from Russia to China from 2011 to 2030.”
And while we are speaking of East Asia, North Korea has some interested plans coming up. This month, according to NewsVOA, they have agreed to engage in talks with South Korea over a number of significant issues to the region. First, South Korea wants its citizens to be able to visit relatives that had been separated by the 1950s war. Second, they want to talk about managing shared waterways. Last month, North Korea “suddenly released water from a dam, flooding camping areas in the South and six South Koreans drown,” according to News VOA. Strangely, after agreeing to these talks, North Korea did a series of short-range missile tests. Even stranger: the South is not concerned. News VOA echoes my feelings when it says, “Whether it is intended or not, the missile launches serve as an implicit reminder to South Korea of the North’s ability to inflict massive damage on very short notice.” I hope those talks work! As always, dear reader, there is a world outside Saint Mary’s! Be part of it!
Another blow to free speech
BY ELDON JOHN VASELAAR
Guest Writer
September 28, students and faculty of Saint Mary’s University met in the faculty dining room to ask questions about a decision regarding the play Seven Jewish Children, by Caryl Churchill.
The play was scheduled on the calendar to be held at the Veterans’ Memorial. The students were practicing at the location when suddenly they were told it was not okay and to move the play. They were given the option of being 20 feet off to the side in the grass or in the theater. Students and staff wondered why there was a problem since the play was originally scheduled there in the first place when there was enough time to review the script and withhold permission if there were issues. The student proposal was submitted in April of 2009. With these thoughts in mind, the attendees were allowed to ask questions of an official. These questions were not answered. Using a familiar tactic, the official set up to take the heat persistently avoided the concerns and questions of those present, saying that since the wound from putting the Veterans’ Memorial up was too new, the play could not be at the memorial since they want to stress it is only being used as a memorial and not reopen the issue - especially because holding a play there had raised a few eyebrows. The official also stated that no such activity would have been allowed regardless of content, but when asked if the American Legion or VFW wanted to do something would they be turned down, there was no answer. Instead, it would be looked at on a “case by case” basis.
The main arguments against the memorial were that it would be promoting war and misinterpreted along with putting wars above question. Most of those who opposed the building of the memorial supported holding the play there, so in effect this decision is rubbing salt in the wound, causing exactly what administration is trying to avoid.
Not one person against holding the play attended the meeting. If the protest by a few individuals can prevent the use of this memorial by a student, what says other complaints couldn’t be used to deny the use of other spaces? In this decision, free speech, the very thing these veterans died for, is being cast aside due to a few complaints from people who wouldn’t even show up to voice why they were against it in the first place.
Guest Writer
September 28, students and faculty of Saint Mary’s University met in the faculty dining room to ask questions about a decision regarding the play Seven Jewish Children, by Caryl Churchill.
The play was scheduled on the calendar to be held at the Veterans’ Memorial. The students were practicing at the location when suddenly they were told it was not okay and to move the play. They were given the option of being 20 feet off to the side in the grass or in the theater. Students and staff wondered why there was a problem since the play was originally scheduled there in the first place when there was enough time to review the script and withhold permission if there were issues. The student proposal was submitted in April of 2009. With these thoughts in mind, the attendees were allowed to ask questions of an official. These questions were not answered. Using a familiar tactic, the official set up to take the heat persistently avoided the concerns and questions of those present, saying that since the wound from putting the Veterans’ Memorial up was too new, the play could not be at the memorial since they want to stress it is only being used as a memorial and not reopen the issue - especially because holding a play there had raised a few eyebrows. The official also stated that no such activity would have been allowed regardless of content, but when asked if the American Legion or VFW wanted to do something would they be turned down, there was no answer. Instead, it would be looked at on a “case by case” basis.
The main arguments against the memorial were that it would be promoting war and misinterpreted along with putting wars above question. Most of those who opposed the building of the memorial supported holding the play there, so in effect this decision is rubbing salt in the wound, causing exactly what administration is trying to avoid.
Not one person against holding the play attended the meeting. If the protest by a few individuals can prevent the use of this memorial by a student, what says other complaints couldn’t be used to deny the use of other spaces? In this decision, free speech, the very thing these veterans died for, is being cast aside due to a few complaints from people who wouldn’t even show up to voice why they were against it in the first place.
Administrator explains decision on play relocation
BY CHRIS KENDALL
Vice President for Student Development
The decision not to allow the Veterans’ Memorial to be used as the set for Seven Jewish Children brought out passionate and differing points of view. It was a challenge to balance the views of a director creatively articulating peace through art, with concern for families and friends whose loved ones are commemorated at the Veterans’ Memorial.
I read the script of Seven Jewish Children and found it to be a meaningful and significant play. However, the Veterans’ Memorial is not a performance venue, and the play was not appropriate there. Some have thanked me and some have criticized me, but please know that this determination was made with a real effort to consider all those impacted.
It was my hope that a proposed compromise to perform the play nearby the memorial would have provided the impact desired by the director, while giving respectful space to families and friends of those honored by the memorial. The timing of the play’s relocation was regrettable. Ideally, I would have had earlier and more detailed communication with the theater department prior to the staging phase of the show. I admire and appreciate the efforts of the director and cast for reblocking the show in the 11th hour.
Vice President for Student Development
The decision not to allow the Veterans’ Memorial to be used as the set for Seven Jewish Children brought out passionate and differing points of view. It was a challenge to balance the views of a director creatively articulating peace through art, with concern for families and friends whose loved ones are commemorated at the Veterans’ Memorial.
I read the script of Seven Jewish Children and found it to be a meaningful and significant play. However, the Veterans’ Memorial is not a performance venue, and the play was not appropriate there. Some have thanked me and some have criticized me, but please know that this determination was made with a real effort to consider all those impacted.
It was my hope that a proposed compromise to perform the play nearby the memorial would have provided the impact desired by the director, while giving respectful space to families and friends of those honored by the memorial. The timing of the play’s relocation was regrettable. Ideally, I would have had earlier and more detailed communication with the theater department prior to the staging phase of the show. I admire and appreciate the efforts of the director and cast for reblocking the show in the 11th hour.
Professor disappointed by dialogue’s timing
To the Editor,
I write to express my disappointment that Saint Mary’s University refused to let students stage Seven Jewish Children
at the Veterans’ Memorial, especially since permission to do so was granted last April.
Yes, the play did go on, but only after the student who directed it as her senior project had to completely re-block it on less than a week’s notice. Furthermore, we may never know who or how many people objected to the play being performed at the memorial. For all we know, one dissenting voice got its way. Judging from the opinions expressed by students and faculty who packed the faculty dining room Oct. 1 to hear about the decision to move the play, a sizable segment of the university community is troubled by the decision.
At that forum, the statement was made that even though the decision disappointed many people, the dialogue that took place was healthy, a sign of things as they should be. I agree it was good that discussion took place, and I respect and admire Chris Kendall for facing a roomful of unhappy people. But I do not consider it true dialogue when the talking takes place only after the decision has been made. If we as a university community want to give ourselves credit for taking up issues that guarantee disagreement, we must make sure that what is said plays a role in what is done. When talking only takes place after decisions are made, it’s only talk, mere window-dressing instead of something of substance.
Steve Schild
Associate Professor
Mass Communication Program
I write to express my disappointment that Saint Mary’s University refused to let students stage Seven Jewish Children
at the Veterans’ Memorial, especially since permission to do so was granted last April.
Yes, the play did go on, but only after the student who directed it as her senior project had to completely re-block it on less than a week’s notice. Furthermore, we may never know who or how many people objected to the play being performed at the memorial. For all we know, one dissenting voice got its way. Judging from the opinions expressed by students and faculty who packed the faculty dining room Oct. 1 to hear about the decision to move the play, a sizable segment of the university community is troubled by the decision.
At that forum, the statement was made that even though the decision disappointed many people, the dialogue that took place was healthy, a sign of things as they should be. I agree it was good that discussion took place, and I respect and admire Chris Kendall for facing a roomful of unhappy people. But I do not consider it true dialogue when the talking takes place only after the decision has been made. If we as a university community want to give ourselves credit for taking up issues that guarantee disagreement, we must make sure that what is said plays a role in what is done. When talking only takes place after decisions are made, it’s only talk, mere window-dressing instead of something of substance.
Steve Schild
Associate Professor
Mass Communication Program
Staff Spotlight: Phillip Hull
BY SARA EISENHAUER
News Editor
The beginning of Phillip Hull’s career as the director of Study Abroad and as a Career Services associate has been focused on transitioning from a public to private university atmosphere and applying his previous study abroad experience to the Saint Mary’s University program.
“The first six months have been becoming familiar with the ebb-and-flow of the university,” said Hull. “I still feel like
I am in a learning phase.” Hull previously worked in the Study Abroad Office at Emporia State University in Kansas and taught in the English Department there before assuming his current position at SMU in April. Though he never studied abroad in college, Hull has taught in study abroad programs four times and has used that experience in his work with study abroad programs. Based on observations from the teaching and research he has conducted, Hull said study abroad “really does change students and how they view education, examine the world around them and tackle problems.”
Hull also said students who study abroad gain confidence to test out new ideas in the classroom from the small experiences, such as having to navigate through a train station in a foreign language. Studying abroad also allows students to gain different perspectives and recognize that the rest of the world does not think the way people in the United States do, Hull said.
As the new director, Hull has been responsible for advising students about study abroad programs, conducting study abroad orientation for students, updating the website and manuals, marketing and budgeting. As a Career Services associate, Hull will also teach a career exploration class for first and second year students.
News Editor
The beginning of Phillip Hull’s career as the director of Study Abroad and as a Career Services associate has been focused on transitioning from a public to private university atmosphere and applying his previous study abroad experience to the Saint Mary’s University program.
“The first six months have been becoming familiar with the ebb-and-flow of the university,” said Hull. “I still feel like
I am in a learning phase.” Hull previously worked in the Study Abroad Office at Emporia State University in Kansas and taught in the English Department there before assuming his current position at SMU in April. Though he never studied abroad in college, Hull has taught in study abroad programs four times and has used that experience in his work with study abroad programs. Based on observations from the teaching and research he has conducted, Hull said study abroad “really does change students and how they view education, examine the world around them and tackle problems.”
Hull also said students who study abroad gain confidence to test out new ideas in the classroom from the small experiences, such as having to navigate through a train station in a foreign language. Studying abroad also allows students to gain different perspectives and recognize that the rest of the world does not think the way people in the United States do, Hull said.
As the new director, Hull has been responsible for advising students about study abroad programs, conducting study abroad orientation for students, updating the website and manuals, marketing and budgeting. As a Career Services associate, Hull will also teach a career exploration class for first and second year students.
Staff Spotlight:Andrea Essar
BY SARA EISENHAUER
News Editor
As the new Saint Mary’s University Director of Campus Safety, Andrea Essar has found the transition from law enforcement to her new job less difficult than expected because of the knowledge and expertise her colleagues have provided.
“It’s one of those jobs with so many different aspects,” said Essar. Learning campus safety rules, policies and procedures, as well as ensuring that the university complies with federal law has been the biggest challenge in Essar’s transition from her position as deputy chief of the Winona Police Department.
Essar spent 17 years with the police department, seven as deputy chief, before coming to SMU.
Because of her work on the police force, Essar said she likes the job more when there are a lot of things going on.
“It’s kind of fun to have more people to interact with,” Essar said. Essar believes she is fitting in well with the SMU philosophy. She said she likes that “everyone is there to help, support and learn from each other.” Since assuming her position, there have been few changes in Campus Safety, but she would like to emphasize training for staff and students in the future. Essar also wants to find more ways for Campus Safety to be directly involved with students.
News Editor
As the new Saint Mary’s University Director of Campus Safety, Andrea Essar has found the transition from law enforcement to her new job less difficult than expected because of the knowledge and expertise her colleagues have provided.
“It’s one of those jobs with so many different aspects,” said Essar. Learning campus safety rules, policies and procedures, as well as ensuring that the university complies with federal law has been the biggest challenge in Essar’s transition from her position as deputy chief of the Winona Police Department.
Essar spent 17 years with the police department, seven as deputy chief, before coming to SMU.
Because of her work on the police force, Essar said she likes the job more when there are a lot of things going on.
“It’s kind of fun to have more people to interact with,” Essar said. Essar believes she is fitting in well with the SMU philosophy. She said she likes that “everyone is there to help, support and learn from each other.” Since assuming her position, there have been few changes in Campus Safety, but she would like to emphasize training for staff and students in the future. Essar also wants to find more ways for Campus Safety to be directly involved with students.
Club Corner: Scuba club
BY TRAVIS FICK
Managing Editor
The Saint Mary’s University Scuba club is trying something new…under water.
The Scuba club plans to try underwater pumpkin carving, said Angela Lager, president of the Scuba club, in an e-mail.
“We'll see how many pumpkins actually make it underwater,” said Lager. “Physics (is) working against us with the buoyancy of the pumpkins!”
Currently, the Scuba club has 15 active members who participate in three dives throughout the school year. “We do not have set times or days that we meet,” said Lager.
Lager said the number of club members continues to grow. “(The) number (of participants) continues to grow with the new scuba class that is being offered at Saint Mary's,” said Lager. In order to participate in dives, club members must go through training and be certified by the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUO) or the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).
Anyone interested in becoming scuba certified may enroll in the scuba class offered each year or contact Head Swimming and Diving Coach Eric Lindquist. Anyone already certified who is interested in the scuba club can contact Lager at amlage05@smumn.edu.
Managing Editor
The Saint Mary’s University Scuba club is trying something new…under water.
The Scuba club plans to try underwater pumpkin carving, said Angela Lager, president of the Scuba club, in an e-mail.
“We'll see how many pumpkins actually make it underwater,” said Lager. “Physics (is) working against us with the buoyancy of the pumpkins!”
Currently, the Scuba club has 15 active members who participate in three dives throughout the school year. “We do not have set times or days that we meet,” said Lager.
Lager said the number of club members continues to grow. “(The) number (of participants) continues to grow with the new scuba class that is being offered at Saint Mary's,” said Lager. In order to participate in dives, club members must go through training and be certified by the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUO) or the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).
Anyone interested in becoming scuba certified may enroll in the scuba class offered each year or contact Head Swimming and Diving Coach Eric Lindquist. Anyone already certified who is interested in the scuba club can contact Lager at amlage05@smumn.edu.
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