Who Sa ys One Says Vote Doesnt Matt er? Matter?

Candidat es Tie: R unof f Candidates Runof unoff Presidential Election

Filler Up: Find Out Wh y Why Page 6 o MSU-B t to Lose Three Great Pr of s Prof ofs Page 8 Double Edge Pr oductions Productions Of fer s Off ers Nightclub Alt ernativ e Alternativ ernative Page 13

Photo by Matt Langman Protesters solemnly ask passers-by to consider the implications of the War in Iraq.

War Pr otest or s Bra ve the Cold Pro estor ors Brav

Yellowstone County Courthouse carried signs and other articles of memorial at a war protest organized by The Montana Peace Seekers. Ed Weninger of the MPS describes himself as someone who is tired of the war. He said that the MPS is a loosely knit group that believes there is a better way to solve problems than war. He also wanted to make

The weather is not cooperating, observed one war protest participant. Kind of like Bush, replied another, we only killed three more kids today and wounded another 100 Iraqis. On Monday, March 19, roughly 35 people outside the

clear that the protest was not an anti-soldier rally, adding, We support our troops and we want them brought home alive now! Protestors braved the frigid wind and blizzard-like conditions to demonstrate their anti-war sentiments. One man carried a sign reading THINK PEACE. Another womans sign listed the death tolls from

Wolfgang Ge ts the Boo t Gets Boot Page 15 Three W eeks Weeks Remain f or for Young Lady Jac ket T eam Jack Team Page 17

Nor thcutt in Ho tW at er as Northcutt Hot Wat ater ASMSU-B F reezes A ccount Freezes Account
The Northcutt Steele Gallery is located on the first floor of the Liberal Arts building. It presents student artwork. It is the Art Departments way to encourage young artists to participate and compete on local, national and even international levels. Public receptions and visiting lectures are also held there periodically. It is a place where students can show off their talent to peers. In March the Northcutt Steele Gallery had their accounts frozen by ASMSU-B. When the student government figured the budget for this year, they did not set aside funding to pay the gallery director.

See PR OTEST page 6 PRO

See NORTHCUTT page 3

Photo Illustration by Nicole Livermont Northcutts operations came to a halt when their account was frozen by ASMSU-B.

Photos courtesy of ASMSU-B Harris (top) and Majewski will face-off again on April 4 and 5. The ASMSU-B elections held March 23 and 24 concluded with a tie for student body president. Candidates Matt Harris and Kevin Majewski both received 336 votes. One ballot listed Kevin Majewski as a write-in option and another showed Matt Harris as the write-in choice. A third ballot simply read Harris as the write-in vote. As is the procedure whenever the ASMSU-B by-laws need to be interpreted, the Supreme Court assembled. The Supreme Court was asked to rule after debate regarding the three write-in votes. In a letter to the student body the Supreme Court justified its findings as follows: It is the opinion of the court that any Write-in votes signify the intent by the voter to cast a vote for someone who is not listed on the ballot [since]the online ballots had clear instruction to select one check box per candidate or a

See R UNOFF page 3 RUNOFF

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1500 University Drive SUB 225

Billings, Montana 59101 Business and Newsroom: 406-657-2194 Fax: 406-657-2191 E-mail: [email protected]

Ill Pr ocrastinat e Lat er Procrastinat ocrastinate Later

Have you ever Googled someone youre dating, just to be on the safe side? How about someone who youre dating without their knowledgeyou know, like the barista at Borders whose first and last name (complete with correct spelling) youve somehow obtained. What about one of your neighbors? Ooh, or how about yourself? Have you ever Googled yourself? I like to keep busy; I really do. I just dont like to busy myself with the stuff I should be doing. Luckily, Im pretty resourceful. Ive noticed that the likelihood of excessive Googling, bidding on eBay, researching breast augmentation, or napping skyrockets in direct proportion to the amount of things I must accomplish. Something peculiar possesses me around this time every semester. I was describing my condition to a friend the other day: I have all these projects and reading assignments piling up, but for the life of me I cant find any motivation to get started on them. I feel like Im drowning. Want to go for a beer? To which my friend replied, It doesnt only happen to you, idiot. Its called spring fever and it happens to everyone. Lets go youre buying. Dictionary.com defines this phenomenon as follows: spring fever n. A feeling of languor or yearning brought on by the coming of spring. I guess I just feel like I work better under pressure. Im the type of person who packs all three of my suitcases the hour before my flight leaves, writes 10-page papers three hours before theyre due (just kidding, B.D.), and drives around on empty for three days before either putting five dollars in my gas tank or running out of gas and then putting five dollars in, whichever comes first. But how can I blame the 70 degree temperatures, or the fact that therere only four weeks left of school? The real culprit is so obvious: ADHD. ADHD is the acronym for Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder. Its a real household name, if you willas far as psychological disorders go anyway. Its the Chevy of abnormal psychology: the brand more Americans choose. It is a great excuse for having bratty kids and, turns out its a good explanation for laziness, too (much more socially acceptable than admitting to a marijuana habit). Whats cool about ADHD is that when a doctor confirms its presence, the person with ADHD then becomes eligible to receive daily doses of legal speed (Ritalin, Adderall, etc.). My particular psychological affliction and its translation into ineffectiveness each spring has also manifested in my dreams. In my dream I answer the door to a masked gunman. What is my response? I pass out. Its happened in several different situations in several different dreams. I cant help wonder about the correlation between feeling overwhelmed in real life and responding by Googling myself and feeling overwhelmed in a dream and responding by passing out. Im probably repressing homosexuality and penis envy. I wonder if there are any good meds for thatooh, or if I should Google that kid from my Spanish class

The Retor t Staf f

Editor in Chief...............Olivia Koernig Business Manager...........Yacine Zerizef Faculty Advisor.............Nancy Swanson Layout Editor................Dana Livermont Ad Manager...........................Niki Porter Copy Editor...............Amanda Patterson News Editor.....................Brie Radovich A & E Editor.................Melissa DeVries Sports Editor..........................Jed Barton Photo Editor................Nicole Livermont Creativity Editor....................VACANT Reporter..................................VACANT Reporter..............................VACANT Reporter...............................VACANT Photographer...................Matt Langman Staff Writer..........................Paul Jangula Staff Writer.................Miranda Breding Cartoonist............................Dan Hansen Columnist.........................Mike Schrage
Guideline & Policies The Retort encourages the submission of letters to the Editor. Letters must be under 250 words in length and include name, signature, and phone number. The Retort reserves the right to edit for space and possible libel. Letters should deal with subject matter relevant to the students, faculty, and staff of MSU-Billings. The Retort is published twice a month. Letters must be submitted by the Friday after the most recnt issue date. The Retort is made possible in part by student fees allocated by ASMSU-Billings. The Publications Board of ASMSU-Billings advises The Retort, leaving content decisions to the editors. Opinions expressed in The Retort are not necessarily those of its members, the university, students, nor student, state, or federal governments.

The Retort would like to extend its apologies to James Reuss and Erica Guyton, whose last names were misspelled in the February 14 and March 14 issues, respectively.

Should A udit or s Ha ve a V oice? Audit uditor ors Hav Voice?

Have you ever been in class with one of those students who take up class time with ridiculous questions? How would you feel if you found out that student paid a minuscule amount of money to be there? This could be the case with students who opt to audit a class. Many students have heard the term, but what does it mean to audit a class? Basically a person pays a reduced amount to take a class, but does not receive a grade. For non-students it costs $5 per credit hour to audit. They will not receive a grade nor will the class be recorded on a transcript. For students enrolled in classes at MSU-B, to audit a class they have to pay the full tuition price and it will be noted on their transcript that they audited. If you are interested in auditing a class the process is pretty simple. First, go to the Registrars Office and pick up an Audit Fee Payment Card. Next, fill out the card and seek approval from the instructor from whom you are requesting an audit. After approval take the card to the Cashiers Office and pay your fee. You are now ready to audit a class. Some students feel that it not fair to students who pay full tuition when these people who pay $15 are monopolizing our class time. ONeill explains that he has a few classes with auditing students and feels that they might be taking advantage of the situation. Other students have not found auditing to be a problem on the MSU-B campus. Mass Communication major, Jennifer Maddox states, People auditing are usually quiet and dont say much. Maddox does not feel affected by auditing students. Since professors must approve auditing students, the best course of action if you have a problem would be to talk to your professor. They will probably be able to keep unruly students in check. Every student reacts differently to different situations. What may bother one student, another may find acceptable. Approaching the situation with an open mind may be the best way to solve any problem.

RUNOFF fr om page 1 from

Write-in selection. The Supreme Court found further ...that a Writein vote containing either first or last name does not clearly demonstrate the intent of the voter. A runoff ballot which will operate under the plurality clause of the ASMSU-B bylaws will be held on April 4 and 5. Plurality means that the candidate with the most votes wins the election with disregard for a simple majority being obtained. The other election results are listed below. The winning candidates are indicated. ASMSU-B Vice President >Dan Hansen 346 Andrew Zoeller 324 Senators-Main Campus >Zach Abels 364 >Seth Burglee 377 Kenneth Burke 308 >Haley DePuydt 424 >Stacie Dix 480 >Tiffani Fehlmann 398 Anthony Flores 319

Christa Jensen 296 >Brittany Lane 402 >Amanda Morales 443 >Sarah McIntyre 412 Loren Moreno 319 >Janii Pedersen 331 >Brian Redfern 430 Lewis Rife 307 >Tytus Stempniewicz 360 >Scott Steinbacher 427 >Shelley Tanskanen 348 Senator-COT >Serena Anderson 311 Chelsey McCollum 275

Some students are listening in for next to nothing. is unfair for people who pay a reduced amount to have the same amount of class time with the professor. One such student, Public Relations major Michael ONeill notes, I think it is disturbing and

Photo courtesy of AMSU-B Dan Hansen was again elected ASMSU-B VP.

NORTHCUTT fr om page 1 from

Each April, the student government writes the budget for the next school year. This year, the directors salary was not a line item, meaning the gallery could not take money out of their account for that reason. The receptionist in the art department, who is in charge of payroll, paid the director with funding that was not theirs. Amanda Mears, the business manager of ASMSU-B, warned the gallery the first time that she caught them, and then a couple of weeks ago froze their account so that no money could be spent on anything to do with the Northcutt Steele Gallery. Mears has the right to police ASMSU-B budgeted accounts if the campus group is using the money illegally. She does not have free reign, though, and only freezes accounts if it is the last resort. They were given ample time to correct their mistakes she said. She told them that they could not take the directors salary from the student wages in the student budgeted account. They needed to take it out of the endowment fund, which is an account that alumni and faculty contribute to every year. Mears said that the accounts will be unfrozen as soon as they find other means to fund the director. Neil Jussila, an advisor, said it is his understanding that if a budget irregularity occurs then the correction must be made. If that is the case, then ASMSU-B has acted responsibly. Debbie Ross, the department secretary, had no comment. Mears is working with the Northcutt Steele Gallery right now to set up an account through the activities fee budget that would pay the directors salary.

International Studies Gives MSU-B the World

Shelly McCutchan was out to prove to herself that she could move to the other side of the world and be fine on her own when she decided to study in New Zealand last semester. McCutchan, a senior studying psychology says, I think that it is a very important part of college life and that everyone would be better off if they did it. She believes that studying abroad teaches students independence and gives them a more rounded view of how the rest of the world really lives and thinks. She lists study abroad experiences as a great opportunity for college students to find their way in life. In the past five years, 132 MSU-B students have traveled to other countries for study abroad programs. The love of travel, the intrigue of foreign lands and the desire to try something new all draw them to try life outside of the United States. They have studied almost everywhere including Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, Finland, Ireland, Costa Rica, Mexico, Australia, England, China, Wales, Germany, New Zealand, India and the Dominican Republic. Now students at MSU-B are speaking out about what studying abroad means to them. Jasmine Landrie, a senior in business management and information systems says that traveling abroad allows students to have learning opportunities they cant experience in a classroom. Landrie has been to six different countries. Recently she went to India with an MSU-B short-term study abroad program and says, In India I learned that I was taking for granted how clean the United States is and I left with a very strong desire to Keep America Beautiful. Landrie advices students that to make their experiences in another country even better they should, Learn about where they are going, know the basic customs and maybe a little history. According to Landrie, the benefit of traveling with the college program is that they plan everything for you, but she notes that taking the opportunity to travel is important even if students dont do it with a school program. Landrie would like to remind students that studying abroad is a good option and if money is an issue, there is financial aid and scholarships available. Dillon Stadley, a sophomore with an undeclared major, is going to Germany to learn about his heritage. My grandparents are German-speaking immigrants from Russia, he says. Based on his previous travels, Stadley believes that its important for students to see the Europe of today so that they dont accept outdated WWII stereotypes. After spending time serving in the army, Stadley says, Its always good to give young people an opportunity to see the world if they dont want to join the military. He cautions students against being afraid of studying abroad because they feel they might miss something while theyre gone. Take it from me, he says, the longer you are away the more you realize that nothing changes too much. Alexis Brill MSU-B senior in business management says that being out of familiar territory creates more effective learning experiences for her. Describing how she chose her place of study, Brill says, India has always intrigued me and I wanted to go somewhere that was very unfamiliar, captivating and alluring. I knew it would be an unforgettable learning experience. Brill says that studying abroad gives MSUB students a feel for life outside of the United States. Not only does the experience look good on your resume, it gives you a chance to meet new people, familiarize yourself with foreign

education systems and make many friends. From her trip to India, Brill says she gained a new sense of love and appreciation for life. Although many Indians experience levels of poverty that are unimaginable in the United States Brill says, They have a look in their eyes that expresses their love, spirituality and appreciation of life. It is very inspiring. As Brill says, If you are able to do it, dont let the chance pass you by! Going abroad is something well worth your time and money. Chances are you will not get an opportunity like it again. Who Is Eligible?: Any MSU-B student who is at least a sophomore and in good academic standing. Where Can Y ou Go?: You MSU-B has direct exchange programs with eight universities abroad but through other partnerships with MSU-Bozeman students can find a program in almost any country in the world! Ho w Muc h Does It How Much Cost?: With MSU-B exchange programs, MSU-B students pay the same tuition to study abroad as they do to go to school in Montana. What Can Y ou Do Ne xt?: You Next?: Contact Director of International Studies, Analicia Pianca at 406-657-1705 or [email protected] and go to www.msubillings.edu/ intnlstudies

Photo courtesy of Miranda Breding Students who study abroad often gain meaningful and lifelong relationships.

and loving relationship:

Green Flags
Romantic relationships can play a vital role in our lives. They can lift us up and make us feel loved, valued, and safe, or they can bring us down and create self-doubt, shame, and fear. Wouldnt it be nice to have a checklist of things to look for in a person and/ or a relationship? Wouldnt it be nice to have a list of green flags and red flags? Green flag items are desirable qualities to look for in a relationship or person, and red flags are items that indicate an unhealthy or dangerous situation. Although not a guarantee and certainly not meant to be complete, the following lists may be helpful for you in developing and maintaining a healthy Communication is open and honest Individuality and personal identity is enhanced, not diminished Play, humor, and having fun occurs frequently Each person doesnt try to control or fix the other Humilitythe ability to let go of the need to be right Trust Balance of giving and receiving Mistakes are accepted and learned from Willingness to take risks and be vulnerable Each person can be alone and privacy is respected A balance exists between time together, alone, and with other people Assertivenessfeelings and needs are expressed and respected

Negotiations/disagreements are fair with a goal of resolving conflict present Other meaningful relationships and interests exist for both people Responsibility for own behaviors and happiness (not blaming the other person)

R ed Flags Red
Blaming the other person for ones own actions Unrealistic expectations for what the other person should be Jealousy when talking or going out with friends or other people Anger over small things; unpredictable and violent anger One person makes fun of the other (not in a playful way), including criticism and insults Name calling Possessiveness

Control over the other persons dress, spare time, activities Abuse of alcohol and other drugs One person tells the other theyre crazy, stupid or inadequate Forcing sexual contact One person is afraid of the other Avoiding ones own friends to keep the partner happy Having to apologize for the other persons behavior Realizing your own selfesteem is suffering by being in this relationship

Ending an unhealthy relationship can be difficult and even dangerous. Counselors at the Student Health Service can help you through this difficult time, and, if needed, Campus Police can be incredibly helpful as well. If you find yourself in an unhealthy relationship, please dont hesitate to call Student Health Services today at 657-2153 to make an appointment with a counselor. Take care and stay healthy.

talked about the second shift that many women take on, which often involves as much work as a regular day job. Also disThe second annual Stirring the Pot cussed was the still-popular idea among Forum by and for women was held March many that if a family can afford it, the wife 23, in the Lewis and Clark Room from 7:00 should stay home. A particularly memorable to 9:00 pm. It was a discussion panel that quote of the evening came from Dr. Honea, was started last year by Lisa Kemmerer, who while she talked about three primary probis a philosophy professor, as part of one of lems with the nuclear family, the first one her classes. More than 40 people were in was the man over woman theory, theres the audience, and this year the topic was a reason why its called wedlock. Two other problems, she said, are economics, which Ecofeminism: Women, Nature, Justice. Nine women made up the usually ensures the woman will be depenpanel, with students Sara Schantz and Amelia dant financially on the man, and the social McDanel introducing the topic and speak- construction of motherhood that automatiers. After a brief discussion of the ideas and cally assumes the woman to be the natural topics to be discussed, they read a quote from caregiver, and often denies men the chance to nurture children. famed anthropologist Director of InterMargaret Mead. national Studies Analicia Everytime we liberate a Pianca asked the audience woman, we liberate a questions about how the man. audience treats people Rev. Kim Woeste with different skin colors asked the question, How and abilities. She also do you picture God? gave challenges to the auShe discussed two differdience that included usent images of God: the ing a wheelchair for five notion that God is on top, days, attending the Pow and also that God is within Wow and writing a jourpeople. She talked about nal about it, and she made the idea of dualism that a plea for Native Ameriexists in the God is on cans to reach out to nontop concept by sharing Ecofeminists fight against natives. Thomas Aquinas hierar- anthropornography in pop Next was former chal pyramid that shows, culture. in descending order, God, Angels, Man, educator, Thora Dexter, originally from the Woman, and Nature. The other concept, is Ballantine, Montana area. She told some the idea that there is a little bit of God every- thought provoking stories about her childhood and growing up as a tomboy. where, even inside people. Lisa Kemmerer of the Department of Dr. Joy Honea, Assistant Professor of Sociology, was up next with a discussion English and Philosophy then spoke about about the role of women in the family. She nature and animals, asking an important

Stirring the P ot: Che w on This Po Chew

question; Do you know what happens to animals before arriving on your dinner plate? She discussed the atrocities that can occur in the slaughter industry, and even brought up a correlation between workers in slaughterhouses and violent behavior. Finally, students Bethany Dopp and Morgan Hanley gave a presentation on the portrayal of women in the media, and also introduced to us a fascinating book by Carol J. Adams called The Pornography of Meat. Adams book looks at the way that both women and animals are portrayed as consumable slabs of meat through advertising and photography especially. They showed five different and precise areas where this objectification occurs: 1)animal slander- using animal names to describe women, such as chick, cow, bitch, and pussy; 2)bestiality- portraying women as animals in media, such as print ads; 3)body chopping- this is advertising that only shows the desirable parts of the female anatomy. You see it a lot in weight loss advertisements; 4)anthropornography- this is when non-human animals are depicted as whores, such as the Turkey Hooker, a device for removing a roasted turkey from the pan, that includes a cartoon of a turkey dressed as a prostitute; 5)thingification- the practice of turning someone into something. The forum was controversial and thought-provoking. In the audience audible gasps were heard from many women (and a few men) after learning just how commonplace this type of advertising tactics are. The forum was sponsored by the Philosophy Department and United Campus Ministry.

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Paying at the Pump Ma y Sa ve Y ou Some Dough May Sav You

quarter tank, you get water condensation and this could cause corrosion and rust in the tank. This is just one of The dial is close to empty but you many problems that could arise. Accould probably make it until tomorrow. cording to Pfau, When there is fuel in Its too cold out side to fill up your car a gas tank it acts as a lubricant, without tonight. Besides, the orange warning fuel, the impeller (part of the fuel pump) light isnt always on, just when you go will burn out. The fuel also acts as a up a hill, so that means there is still a coolant so if its low, the car will overlittle bit of gas. Many tell themselves heat. When the gas tank gets too low, this and justify it on a daily basis, espe- water condensation isnt the only probcially when one is a broke college stu- lem; debris can build up at the bottom dent. The truth is, it can do more dam- of the tank from that corrosion and rust. age than one might think. Katherine Sam Kimpton, a student at the COT, Pfau, an Automotive Technology in- adds, When it gets low, the filter in structor at the College of Technology, your gas tank may get clogged full of suggests car owners top off the tank with sludge and less fuel will get through to ten dollars rather than waiting until its the engine which can make the car overon empty to fill up the car with that $10. heat. Pfau suggests when using an If you let your tank get below one additive to remove water from the fuel system, not to over use it. Because of If y ou le ty our tank ge t belo w one you let your get below alcohol in the additive, it can also ruin quar ter tank ,y ou ge tw at er quart tank, you get wat ater the pump and dry condensation and this could cause out seals. Other corr osion and rust in the tank . corrosion tank. than the fact that the Katherine Pfau COT Professor fuel pump needs to be lubed and cooled by fuel, Pfau and

Photo by Melissa DeVries MSU-B Junior Chelsie Jolley knows how to keep her car lubed and cooled! Kimpton have some other tips to follow to keep the car out of the shop and in top performance. Its not always just a low gas tank that can cause a clog in the filters; it can also be a matter of where one fills up. Its a good idea to buy fuel from stations that are busy because fuel is filled often, and there is less chance that water is in the fuel at that station. Its also smart not to fill up with gas when the station themselves are filling up. When they fill up their tanks they use a lot of pressure, like using a fire hose, and this can cause debris to be stirred up, Kimpton explains. So rather than the debris being at the bottom of the tank, its all over and has a much better chance of getting into your gas tank! Keep in mind that when filters are being clogged and pumps are being corroded, its becoming more costly for the car owner. The best thing to do is make sure your car is filled up. These are not only good ideas to keep the checkbook above the red, but also to keep one from being stuck on Airport Road at nine oclock with cars buzzing by.

PR OTEST fr om page 1 PRO from

the past three years of war. The current total of lives lost is 23,018. Weninger also commented that not only has there been a huge loss of human life but America is also spending $179 million per day to keep the war operation going. At the corner of North 27th Street and Second Avenue North a group of protestors draped red, yellow, black and white ribbons on a small bare-branched tree. Not only did the ribbons connect with the Sunday School song, Jesus Loves The Little Children they also represented every person who has died in the Iraq War since the beginning. Among those decorating the tree was Lynell Jones. She said that she got the idea for the tree after hearing international peacemaker, Kathy Kelly speak. The original tree from that speech now sits in Jones backyard where she says, The ribbons are like Tibetan prayer flags. They remind me of the souls parents grieve for and the tremendous loss that they represent. A small CD player provided songs by John Lennon including Imagine, which Jones says, Has always inspired me. Jim Del Duca, a senior counseling student at MSU-B, described his participation in the protest, I believe problems dont go away unless you work on them. I am trying to walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Vern L. Klingman who helped build the First Methodist Church downtown and was a pastor there for 26 years made a passionate speech decrying the war and encouraging the impeachment of Bush. He quoted Lewis Lapham, Editor of Harpers saying, We have in the White House a criminal known to be armed and shown to be dangerous. Klingman also distributed a flyer to members of the crowd with a letter to President Bush written on one side and words of Francis of Assisi, The Serenity Prayer and Mathew 5:5-14 written on the other. He invited the crowd to participate in reading of the prayers. Although rumors that pro-war demonstrators might come to show opposition, no such counter-protest occurred.

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Ar ound the W orld and Bac k: German S tudent at MSU-B Around World Back: Student
As she walked into Stingers Caf, she beamed with confidence. Without a trace of an accent, she politely ordered her coffee. It was obvious this young woman knew where she was going and how she was going to get there. Ruth Mayer, a German exchange student at MSU-Billings, has had a life filled with priceless travels and experiences. When she was deciding which university she would attend, Mayer didnt just pick a random spot on the map. Instead, she and two other German students came to MSUBillings through a partnership program with the University of Education in Ludwigsburg, Germany. Students from her university also have opportunities to study in Australia, Israel, various countries in Europe, and other universities in the United States. Initially, Mayer dreamt of going to UNC Charlotte. However, after a persuasive professors guidance, she decided that MSU-Billings would be a more fulfilling destination. An aspiring educator, Ruth said seeing Montanas diverse geography first-hand would be helpful in the long run. At first, she was disappointed. Theres not that much going on here, she said. On the weekends in Europe, theres always something happening downtown. However, she has grown to like Billings. We were supposed to stay for a semester and would have gone home in December, but we wanted to stay longer. Mayer said she appreciates the good connection she has with her professors here. Theyre interested that you learn something. She also likes the personal atmosphere on campus. Its not too big. You sort of know the people that go here. Mayer s travels have made her an internationally savvy individual. She has been to the Czech Republic, England, France, Italy, Libya, Mozambique, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Mayer has been all over the United States, too, including five years of her life spent in Washington, D.C. While she was there, she attended a German school. However, she was on a swim team where she made American friends and really began to learn the English language. I do a lot of swimming, Mayer said. Our pool (in Germany) is only 40 meters long, and the one here is bigger, she grinned. She also said she likes that the fitness center is so close to the dorms. I can go there all the time! After spending over a semester living in Rimrock Hall, Mayer said she is anxious to move back into the apartment she shares with her friends in Germany. After living by herself for a couple of years, she said it is difficult to get used to the more controlled environment dorm life requires. In April, Ruth will return to Germany for the summer session at her college. After about a year, she will graduate and have a year and a half of teacher training. Then, she will officially be a teacher. Ruth said she is really open-minded toward the world. She has thought about possibly coming back to the United States for a few years, but she thinks she will move to different countries for short periods of time and then come back to Germany. I dont want to immigrate anywhere, she said. Germanys a cool country.

Photo courtesy of Gillette Vaira Ruth Mayer poses in front of a natural backdrop at Yellowstone National Park.

MSU-B Bids F are well t o Three Inspiring Pr of essor s Fare arew to Prof ofessor essors
Depar tments in the Humanities Ha ve R etiring Pr of essor s Departments Hav Re Prof ofessor essors Walt er Utr osk e alter Utrosk oske Dr . Randall Gloege Dr.
Dr. Randall Gloege is retiring after 25 years. He is a professor of writing, literature, criticism, and several ethics courses. His favorite subject was contemporary literature, probably because his college major was contemporary literature with a minor in philosophy. Before teaching at MSU-B, he taught at the university in Bowling Green, OH. and in Pueblo, CO., which is now Colorado State University. When he retires, he wants to go places and look at things. He will be extremely busy because he has been an environmentalist in the past and hopes to become involved again. He enjoys photography and traveling. He has taken his grandson to visit the zoos all along the west coast as well as the Calgary Zoo in Canada. He has been to the cone of Mount St. Helens. The students are what Gloege enjoyed most about his career, contrasted with the administrators which he liked least. He is known for Gloegeisms, little phrases that he is known by. One example is dont forget the water buffalo when writing creatively. It means dont forget to add something unique to the story; otherwise it is the same as everyone elses. He smiled when he said that one year he had a student who could mouth his words exactly before he said them because she had had him in so many classes. Another one of his favorite stories is an illustration of the intersection of history and literature as well as the subjective quality of history. It begins with Gloege on a family vacation when he was young boy. A grasshopper jumped into the window of the car and into his brothers mouth. His sister says that the grasshopper jumped into Gloeges mouth, but his brother said that there was no grasshopper at all. Gloege likes to tell this story to show that people all have different perceptions of the same event. He will work part-time on campus under an extended retirement contract until 2008. Walter Utroske is retiring after 40 years as an English professor. He has taught everything from developmental English courses, American and British Literature, Business Communications, to the Senior Portfolio. The only thing that he has never taught is linguistics. He has never taught anywhere else. The one place he did get some teaching experience was with a teaching assistantship at the University of Kentucky parttime for two years. He had no complications becoming a professor at MSU-B. He thinks of himself as very graced in that respect. His undergraduate degree was in secondary education, but a few weeks into his student teaching he knew he had to go on to graduate school. He had come from a high school of 50 students and a college of 400. He was placed in the second largest school in Indiana, which had 3,200 students, for his student teaching. After graduate school he mailed out three resumes. Someone from MSU-B called him, they talked for about three minutes, and he was offered the job. The next fall, Utroske married and moved to Montana, which has been his home ever since. What he enjoys most about his job is an atmosphere that is intangible, but has a definite presence. The rhythm of his students minds working when engaged in the task at hand. Contrasted with that, the part of his job that he does not like is the closed minded students. The ones who have opinions, but do not have any idea why and cannot explain or defend them. The five things that he is most proud of in his life are his marriage, the birth of his two children, receiving the Most Valuable Player Award for a district basketball tournament in Indiana during high school, and the Outstanding Teacher Award in 1978. When he retires, he plans to continue to love and care for his family foremost. He is going to help his three sisters and brother care for their mother, and spend no more than two hours a day sitting on my ass. He has an informal ban on easy chairs in his house because they make it too easy to be lazy and he is going to keep enforcing that ban. He is going to continue to raise small livestock and become more seriously dedi-

Photo courtesy of Dr. David Karnos It is well when meeting dragons to carry the rod, said Karnos. cated to his recreational bike riding. Now he rides around Billings. He wants to bike the 50 mile long Lake Woebegone Trail in Minnesota. upon them. He said that he loves teaching, but when it comes to grading, he would rather not do it. Also, it is sad to see the poverty in the world. He feels badly for the people who cannot afford to get a higher education. He said that it was some astounding number of people who do not go to college. When asked what he is going to do when he retires, he simply replied play and live. He already fishes and travels, so he is going to do more of that. He has traveled to places such as China, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, and even lived in Greece a couple of times. One funny anecdote that Karnos likes to relay took place while fishing in Seattle. He went with a fellow professor, Dr. Ruey Lin-lin, who is now retired. He was teaching Lin-lin how to fly-fish in a spot named Dragons Head Point. It was a beautiful day and, even though they did not catch any fish, they saw plenty of sea-lions. There was a dragon crafted out of driftwood on the shore and when fishermen sailed past, they bowed to the dragon as a protective deity. He ends the story by saying that the fishing gods are everywhere and fishing is a religious experience for him.

Dr . Da vid K arnos Dr. David Karnos

David Karnos is retiring after 28 years of being a professor of philosophy, humanities, and English. He has been a professor at eight different universities, including Pennsylvania State University (73), the University of California at Santa Cruz (74), and finally ending his career here at MSU-B. The story how he came to work at MSU-B is quite interesting. He was taking a post-graduate seminar at Yale in the summer of 1977. Another professor invited him to come teach at MSU-B for one year and Karnos has been here ever since. The reason he loves teaching so much is because he gets to see his students minds at work. He is the one to teach his students about places that they have never seen. In fact, he has a wall lined with what he terms his students artwork. It consists of postcards from places that his students have traveled. Oftentimes, they are thank-you notes for all the knowledge that he has bestowed

Montana F air Housing t o Present Fair to Inf ormation and A wards at Annual Information Aw Conf erence Conference
In recognition of National F air Housing Month, Montana F air Housing Fair Fair (MFH) is holding its annual conf erence in F airmont Ho t Springs, April conference Fairmont Hot 20 & 2 1, 2006. 21 The conference will provide information on a range of fair housing topics including an overview of federal and state fair housing laws, a review of recent case law in the nation, advertising provisions, requests for reasonable accommodations and/or modifications, Design and Construction provisions, and the Montana Landlord and Tenant Law. The fee for the conference is $95, including lunch and dinner on the 20th, at which time MFHs annual awards will be distributed. These awards are given to individuals/organizations that have made positive efforts to further fair housing in Montana. Montana Fair Housings mission is to ensure that ALL Montanans have equal access to decent, accessible and affordable housing, and that no one is subjected to unlawful discrimination in any aspect of the housing industry, including sales, rental, lending and insurance transactions. For fur ther inf ormation or t o regist er f or the conf erence, please further information to register for conference, air Housing at 800/929.26 11 , 406/5 42.26 11 or Fair 800/929.2611 11, 406/542.26 42.2611 contact Montana F [email protected]

COE Establishes Geof fre yA . Geoffre frey A. Fishbaugh Memorial Sc holar ship Scholar holarship
MSU-BILLINGS NEWS SERVICE Faculty members of the Montana State University-Billings College of Education have established the Geoffrey A. Fishbaugh Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund in memory of Geoffrey Fishbaugh, a 17-year old Billings Central Catholic High School junior who died March 1 as a result of a tragic ski accident. Geoffrey was an inspiration to many and a friend to all he met, said his mother, Dr. Mary Susan Fishbaugh, a longtime professor in and interim dean of the MSU-Billings College of Education. Through the scholarship endowment, said Marilynn Miller, CEO of the MSU-Billings Foundation, Loving memories of Geoff will be carried forward to many generations of deserving students at MSU-Billings. The scholarship will be made available to male students majoring in elementary education who have been accepted into the MSU-Billings teacher education program. Applicants must have a minimum of 3.0 GPA. Because the fund is an endowment, Miller said, only earnings will be used to fund scholarships, so the fund will live in perpetuity to honor Geoff s memory. The first award will be made in the 2006-07 academic year through funding allocated by MSU-Billings Chancellor Dr. Ronald P. Sexton. Those wishing to contribute to the Geoffrey A. Fishbaugh Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund may send their tax deductible memorial gifts made payable to MSU-Billings Foundation at 1500 University Drive, Billings MT 59101-0298. Online gifts may be made at www.msubillings.edu/foundation. Credit card gifts are welcomed by calling the MSUBillings Foundation at 406657-2244. In all cases, please

James D. Ziegler , EMC Ziegler, Pr of of 28 Y ear s, Dies Prof Year ears,

James D. Ziegler, longtime instructor at Eastern Montana College, died at his home in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 18. He was 77 years old. Born in Grass Valley, Oregon, in 1928, he was educated at Oregon State College (now University), where he took his B.S. degree in 1950. After serving with the U. S. Army, he continued his studies at the University of Oregon, receiving a masters degree there in 1958. Ziegler spent a year teaching at Eastern Washington State College and three at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D., before taking a position at EMC in 1963. He served first as an assistant professor of history and political science then as an associate professor in what was then the Social Science Division. He remained at the college until retiring in 1991 as associate professor of history emeritus, moving to Baltimore five years later. During his years at EMC, Prof. Ziegler taught a variety of history courses, including Western Civilization, the Ancient World, and Medieval Europe. A tall, bespectacled, and good-natured person, he greatly enjoyed chatting with students who visited him in his office in the Liberal Arts Building. He also served as the first president of the EMC chapter of the American Federation of Teachers. Prof. Ziegler also directed EMCs Liberal Arts Colloquia, held in 1968-1969 at Mammoth Hot Springs, sponsored by the Danforth Foundation. Additionally, he took two sabbaticals during his tenure at EMC, which were spent as a Visiting Fellow at Harvard University. Prof. Ziegler leaves his wife Dolly, whom he married in 1955; two daughters, Jacquie of Billings and Meg (Mrs. Henry Ferguson) of Baltimore; two grandchildren Ellie and Jeff Ferguson; and two brothers and a sister.

Fishbaughs legacy will be carried on via a scholarship. designate your gift for the Fishbaugh Endowment. MSUBillings Foundation will notify the Fishbaugh family of each memorial gift in honor of their beloved Geoffrey.

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Montana Tech of the University of Montana is seeking four Team Leaders for the 2006 Upward Bound summer academy. The Team Leaders will be required to live in the residence hall and will have responsibility for evening and weekend supervision of students in the academy. Room and board is provided with a salary of $2000 plus an all expense paid trip to Washington D.C. Upward Bound is a federally funded program created in 1965 as part of the Economic Opportunity Act with the goal of helping young people prepare for higher education. Candidates should provide a letter of interest; current resume; and names, addresses, and telephone numbers of three professional references to Personnel Office, Montana Tech, 1300 West Park Street, Butte, MT 59701. Screening will begin on April 17, 2006 and continue until the positions are filled. Further details of job qualifications, responsibilities, and benefits are available at www.mtech.edu/employment. EEO

406.259.0010

Behind the Scenes of a Theatre Pr oduction Production

The Pr ocesses Processes Necessar yt o Mak e Necessary to Make a Pla y Happen Play
Many people love to go to the movies and see magical and fantastic places that really dont exist, like in the Harry Potter movies or the Lord of the Rings trilogy. All that stuff can look really cool, but behind the aesthetics are a great number of people who have to design, build, paint, and decorate all that stuff to make it look that way. The process of putting on a play is the same as in the movies, but on a smaller scale. The Communication and Theatre epartment at MSU-B puts on two or three plays a year, and everyone of them requires a set, lights, and sound. This semester two plays are being produced: The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams, and The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler. The Vagina Monologues will be performed in LA 620. The space is relatively small so the set design cant be overly intricate or large. A set is the physical space in which a play occurs, and a set design is a layout on paper or a model of what the set designer and the director see the physical space looking like. The set designer has to analyze a script carefully, and then create a usable space for the play. Once the design is set down in blueprint style fashion, or a model has been built, the designer needs the approval of the director before giving the design to the technical tional. Sets are built with the very mini- is taking it apart after a play is over, so it director. The technical director is in mum of material and superstructure. At is unwise to build a set that cannot be charge of construction on the set. At the end of a run of show the technicians taken apart in less than three hours. MSU-B, as in many small theaters, the and actors strike the set. Striking a set When set construction is comset designer and the technical dipleted everything has to be rector are the same person. painted. Painting a set is a lot The set design for The like painting a house except in Glass Menagerie is one of the order for the audience to see largest designs ever attempted in things like wallpaper patterns or Petro Theatre. The design eninterior texturing techniques it compasses the orchestra pit in has to be bigger and more obvifront of the stage, the natural ous. After the paint has dried the stairs to the stage, the walls set needs to be decorated. Picabove those stairs, and the entures, plants, furniture, curtains, tire stage itself. Designers will and other furnishings are added design sets according to the to make the set look realistic and specifications of the theatre believable. space they are using. Petro After the set is in place, Theatres stage appears to be a painted, and decorated, the lightlong distance from the audience ing designer looks it over, anaseats. Directors prefer a more lyzes the script, and decides what intimate feel for their produckind of light should be used to tions so they request that the set illuminate it. Lights can change be built closer to the audience. the color, mood, temperature, The Glass Menagerie set will and even time of day of a play. be less than two feet away from Lights can also be used to make the front row. fire, sunsets, and in The Glass The set itself consists of Menagerie a mirror ball dance a living room and dining room. hall effect. Fire escapes and alleys have All of this is done for the been added for effects depurpose of enhancing the actors scribed in the script. The conportraying the characters of the struction process is well underplay. Without the actors efforts, way, and usually takes about all of the technicians work one and a half to two months would be for nothing. The best to complete. set and lighting designs are the Set construction is differones that look so natural that ent than other kinds of conthey become familiar and comPhoto by Matt Langman fortable enough for the audience struction. Most of the time sets are built to look a certain way, Creating a realistic setting requires many hours of to accept their existence, ignore and not to be solid and func- precise handiwork. them, and watch the actors.

Pr of essor Pr of ile: Dr . Catherine Ra ven F eher-Elst on Ph.D. Prof ofessor Prof ofile: Dr. Rav Feher-Elst eher-Elston
time or time-off; do you have any hobbies? CFE: I write books, thats not really MD: What do you teach here at MSUtime off its just something I do. My B? Siberian Huskies are sled dogs and we CFE: History and Native American go up to the mountains to train so that Studies. takes a fair amount of my time, energy, MD: How long have you and money. I like their been teaching here? company, theyre my famCFE: This is the end of my ily. Whenever I can, we first full year with MSUgo up to the Beartooths, Billings, but Ive taught at winter and summer. I also other colleges. enjoy international travel MD: Where did you grow but I dont get to travel as up? much due to my family CFE: Between Lybia, (Huskies). North Africa, Montana, and MD: If you had the power Washington state, Spokane. to make one change at MD: What made you MSU-B that would imchoose to teach at MSU-B prove the University for rather than another the students and staff, school? what would it be? CFE: Well, one nice thing CFE: Student numbers is that they needed someone are growing and it would Photo by Melissa Devries with my experience! I just benefit the students and Feher-Elston is rounding out her first year at MSU-B. happened to be teaching staff if we add more facPhilosophy and Religion at another One sign with not just students, but also ulty so more individual attention could school and that is what MSU-B our culture in general, is no respect. In be given to students and pay the staff needed. Plus, I love Montana. larger classes, there will be a group in more money. We arent on the same MD: What should students do to stand the back talking about what they drank level with other universities. There are out in your class or impress you? the night before. No common courtesy, only five history professors and Id like CFE: Show up! Of course, come to but it doesnt really bother me that bad. to spend more time with my students. class, participate in discussion, and MD: What do you do in your down- The courses are getting bigger and bigcome prepared. Its nice to know what students goals are. Dont be afraid of professors, most want to help. MD: Whats your biggest pet peeve or irritant with students? CFE: Gosh, you know, I dont really have that many issues with students. ger but it seems the faculty is shrinking. MD: Where do you plan on going or what do you plan on doing when you retire? CFE: Retirements a long time away but, in a way, I have retired by coming back to Montana. MD: What is one thing students probably do not know about you (and something youd be willing to share)? CFE: Gosh, I dont know. I like to collect jewelry; I like to wear nice things, silks, perfumes and leathers. I also like make-up. Im kind of a girly girl but I also like running with the wolves, exotic cuisines, I cook and I love a good sauna. Its hard to find a sauna that gets hot enough in the US. MD: Oprah or Ellen? CFE: Oprah, although I like them both. MD: Letterman or Leno? CFE: Letterman. The mass population seems to like Leno but Letterman is more intellectual. I really like Craig Ferguson. MD: Beer, Wine or Whiskey? CFE: Whiskey MD: Big Mac or Whopper? CFE: I like buffalo. MD: Coke or Pepsi? CFE: I dont drink either one so Ill pick mineral water.

Matthe w Sha w: Con venience and Air por t Matthew Shaw: Conv Airpor port Cathedral: Je tlag Jetlag
After my last experience reviewing CDs given to me by A&E editor Melissa Devries, I was rather wary. Actually, being totally honest, I felt compelled to kick her in the shins, her asking me to review CDs so soon after being Jacobsened. But after adding up the combined tracks on both CDs (14) and David W. Jacobsens (23), I figured that worse case scenario; these CDs still had nine songs less than their predecessor. Since Matthew Shaws album Convenience had only five tracks, I thought Id tackle that one first. And, were off! Shaw obviously relies heavily on synthesized rhythm, and track one, titled The Drunk built up into a comfortable and inviting tempo, vaguely sounding akin to Moby splicing genes with The Beta Band, dropping valium, and then toning the tempo way, way down. Shaw seems pera cellar, the music is dank and dreary, with vocals of underlying and unrealized longings, tied together with a fusion of various instruments, mostly relying on heavy doses of piano and a then-unidentified instrument I later learned was a cello (yes, I was surprised too) after a visit to the groups official website, http:// www.airportcathedral.com. According to my untrained and possibly primitive ear, it became difficult to distinguish song from song, and the groups harmonies, vocals and instrumentation did little to give the album focus. The high point was TKO, and I began to lose any real interest as I listened to subsequent songs. Even though my attention was diverted, the remaining tracks werent causing me to jab a salad fork into each thigh, and trust me, thats a good thing. Once again, not my music of choice, but Im sure could easily find a niche with the right group of people. Verdict: Approach cautiously Standouts: TKO

fectly content to consider any possible avenues that involve slow, monotonous vocals. His voice couples almost perfectly with the music, and his strength in songwriting is no more evident on Deadlines & Days Off as is his willingness to explore his own sound over the course of the five songs. While not my type of music,

I can definitely appreciate the effort that went into this particular collection. Plus, it didnt cost me a dime. The Verdict: Worth a listen. Standouts: The Drunk, Deadlines & Days Off Next up was the cleverly named Airport Cathedrals offering, Jetlag. Like

Memoir s of a Geisha: a Slo wR ead Memoirs Slow Read

I thought Memoirs of a Geisha would be a great book, since it is now a Hollywood movie. It would have helped me if I knew about the Japanese culture and traditions before I read it. I spent most of the book trying to figure out what exactly a geisha is. I thought that they were prostitutes, but there is a definite distinction between prostitutes and geisha. I found out that prostitutes wear their obis (kind of like a purse that you wear) on the front of their bodies because its too much work to tie it on the back all the time and geisha wear theirs on the back because they do not have to be continuously removing them. The book tells a story about a young girl whose mother is terminally ill. The father cannot support his two daughters, so he sends them away to another town. Sayuri, the main character, moves into an okiya where young girls learn to become geisha. She rises from a maid in the house to a successful geisha. It is a good tale, but it is kind of bland. There is no real excitement in her life, just some heartbreak when something doesnt go as planned. The most upsetting thing in the story is when she and her sister are separated and her sister is raised as a prostitute. I had to remember the time period it was set around, WWII, because the women were so submissive to the men. They even helped the men put on their shoes, like they couldnt do it for themselves. Im not sure how it is nowadays for those women, but I sincerely hope that they have become more independent. I would recommend this book for history lovers, even though I was disappointed in it. It is not a one-night read. There are no gripping passages that make it so you dont want to put this book down. It is a slow-paced book with no huge climax. I would have liked it better if the author had concentrated more on the history of geisha and the practices, than trying to breeze over that part and tell a story. For naive Americans, more history would have improved the book just because they would know why certain things were happening.

Just Like Heaven Plays New Tricks with an Old Plot

In Just Like Heaven, Reese Witherspoon plays a doctor named Elizabeth who doesnt have time for a social life. She spends all her time at the hospital, trying to be promoted to a resident doctor. One night, her sister invites her over for dinner. On the way over, she gets into a head-on collision with an on-coming semi. Her spirit comes back and Mark Ruffalo who plays David tries to help her find her identity and her unfinished business. It was a fun movie that did not require a lot of thinking. It put a new twist on a movie theme that has been done over and over again. Guy meets girl, they fall in love, there are obstacles that have to be overcome, but they all end up happily ever after. There was a bit of humor, especially with a bookstore clerk who talks to ghosts, but there were also some sad scenes. When David is talking about his wife who died and when you look

at how depressing his life is, its disheartening. There is one question that looms throughout the movie: is Elizabeth dead or in a coma? The ending comes as a surprise. This romantic comedy is a good date movie. It is light-hearted and good to watch after a long week of work and school. Reese Witherspoon plays her role well and Mark Ruffalo complements her. I would recommend this movie for everyone. There isnt a lot of swearing and no explicit scenes.

Photos by Matt Langman Shows listed clockwise from left: La Famelle by Hutchinson, Finding Strength in Scars and Circles by Wankel, Visual Music by Tippet, Chrysalis by Cornett and The Line & The Color Are Dreaming by Professor Jussila.

Fiv e Dif ferent Ar tists, Fiv e Dif ferent Ar t Sho ws Five Diff Artists, Five Diff Art Shows
Walking the Halls of Memor y Memory
Walking through the Northcutt-Steele Gallery, where Neil Jussilas show The Line & The Color Are Dreaming hung (from February 24 March 24), is like walking through a dreamscape. (Neil Jussila is an art professor here at MSUBillings). Eighteen of the works are abstract expressionist paintings, ranging from the size of a full wall to 12 x 10. The mind wants to play with these paintings, to create something out of the bold splashes of color set against black, as in the case of Jussilas painting The Roaring. A bulky black form that dominates most of the canvascreating a sense of stabilitycontrasts with the frenzy of white at the bottom. Splashes of colora line of orange and yellow, some greens and yellows mixed in the white, and most dramatic of all, a bright blue streak coming in a diagonal from the right edgeadd movement to the painting. If one stares at the work long enough, one gets the sense of sitting on a sturdy rock in the middle of a roaring river, near a waterfall perhaps. The prose piece posted next to the paintingeach of Jussilas works is accompanied by a piece of his writingconfirms that The Roaring takes place on the Stillwater River. Jussila confided that he first completes his paintings. Afterwards, he gets a feeling about what they mean, which he then records in prose. People like stories in art, he said. Sometimes Jussila incorporates words in the art, as with his nine small collages in his show, which are made with photocopies pasted on canvas and painted over. He uses such bold words, as Truth, Evil, and Being. In these collages, the paint blends the photocopied images into their backgrounds, obscuring their environments and imprisoning the forms in the canvas. They are both presented to the viewer and kept out of reach. Twenty-two larger works, made from the buildup of canvas strips and paint, seem almost like sculptures. As always, Jussila relies on the pure force of color, as in his creation The Widow. Set in the middle of a varying green background, bright red and blue strips of canvas jump out at the viewer. The intensity of the red especially captures the eye and pulls the viewer into the work. Five of Jussilas works depict mothers holding their infants. His people seem stylized, with small mouths and long fingers and noses. Jussila portrays an intimacy between mother and child that is palpable. All of Jussilas artworks capture moments at different stages of a life, telling stories of childhood, of being newlyweds, of parenting. Jussilas paintings are like photographs of the imagination. One gets the feeling of traveling down the halls of memory, witnessing these captured moments or rather, the emotions of these moments. Reading the accompanying writings is like listening to a narrator recount snippets of his life story: They elucidate the significance of the memories captured in the artworks. Jussila writes, A drawing will come alive when you love what you do. Make it so that others can feel it . . . . It is obvious, from the beauty and quality of Jussilas pieces, that he loves what he does. exposed. The thin ribbons and wire are not enough to shelter one from the elements. If the Self exists here, as the title Ruthless Self Honesty suggests, there is nothing for it to hide behind, nothing to protect it from the eyes of the outside world. This feeling is heightened by the fact that the sculpture is located in the large front window, laid bare to passersby on the street. Seven of the sculptures hang on the wall like wall ornaments. The remaining seven sculptures are smaller, in-the-round pieces supported by iron-and-log pedestals. One of these, Protecting the Vulnerable Flame is made up of thick shimmering orange ribbon entwined around and protected by a fat green vine. Peacock feathers stick out everywhere, their iridescent blues and greens shining in the sunlight. Cornett built her show around the idea of chrysalises that women build to protect themselves during periods of change, and this sculpture hints at the strength and vibrancy of an inner essence, so fragile and beautiful that it needs to be protected. Walking around the Toucan Gallery, one feels like one is on a journey: traveling in Cornetts canoe sculpture, resting in one of her tent-like sculptures, discovering little treasuresCornetts many beautiful piecesalong the way. One is on a quest: to uncover, understand, and deliver the self. In the gallery in the SUB, Brian Tippets show, Visual Music hung from March 13 to the 24. He has six large digital photographs and printsabstractions of musical terminologyand eight smaller photographs of instrument parts. One of his larger works, Sforzando (to perform a composition with particular emphasis), is a frenzy of colororange, red, blue, white, greenset against a black background. Looking at the work, one can almost hear the music in ones head: the little motifssquiggles of white and blue in the backgroundand the sudden amorphous red-orange blur popping out in the lower center part of the workthe sudden note played louder than the rest. In the left hand corner of one of his smaller works, Musical BattalionFrontline, a diagonal row of piano hammers rest on strings. They, along with the piano strings, are lined up as if for war. One anticipates the frenzy of noise and violence that will ensue when these two forces clash. In the back, a hint of red adds to the feeling of impending battle. I have always been fascinated by music and the power it holds, Tippet says. Through his artwork, Tippet conveys that power to the viewer. Walking around the gallery, one can hear the music in ones head. One may not understand the terms with Cont. on ne xt page... next

A Sacred Journe y and Journey Visual Music

Upon first entering the Toucan Gallery, where Sherri Cornetts senior show Chrysalis, hung from March 10 to April 1, one feels like one is walking into an enchanted forest. Long strips of pastel fabric hang floor to ceiling like strange trees. Rocks are scattered upon the floor. Made from metal, glass, fabric, and wood, Cornetts seven large freestanding sculptures themselves feel like part of a forest. One of these is made from iron rods that are curved into the shape of a half-canoe. Two of the three open sides of this pyramidal structure are entwined with copper wire, burgundy leather ribbon, and sheer gold ribbon. This sculpture leaves the viewer feeling

...Cont. fr om privious page from ones mind, but the prints, like music, speak directly to the heart.

Family Memories and Female P ower Po

Christy Wankels senior show Finding Strength in Scars and Circles (held in the Outer Gallery) has the feel of a photo album. It features five large photographs of farm lifefields, farm equipment, vast skiesall compositions in various shades of orange. One especially beautiful photograph shows a close-up of a rearview mirror of a large piece of farm equipment (all the viewer sees of the equipment is its reflection in the mirror and the bars that extend from it, holding the mirror in place). The mirror takes up the whole left half of the photo. One can make out the silhouette of a swather and baler working in the distance. The photograph is dominated by fields: fields that stretch in front of the viewer to the horizon line and beyond, fields reflected in the mirror, fields that overwhelm the viewer with their sheer size. One senses the huge amount of work that must be completed before day is done. Fifty-two transparencies of photographs (depicting eleven separate scenes of family lifechildhood play, young love, early adulthood, work, old age) cover the remaining space on the walls, surrounding the larger works, as if to emphasize that the familys life is built around and rooted in the land. Mounted four inches off a piece of wood painted black and gold, these black-andwhite images cast faint shadows on the background, creating an illusion of three-dimensional space. One of these transparencies shows an old woman, shoulders hunched, head bowed. She is turned from the viewer, the farm blurred behind her. One cannot see the expression on her face, but one can tell that her eyes are open. Is she walking, eyes focused on the ground, on her beloved farm, where she spent so much of her life? One feels a kind of reverence for the old woman, for the landa bit of the land is

included in the display case: stalks of dried wheat stuck through foam core, for the family members, forever frozen in photographs. One acutely feels the passage of time: of changing seasons, of families growing up and moving on, but always the land is there, rooting the family, asking them to remember. In the Student Gallery, Jeanne Hutchinsons exhibit La Femelle! (French for The Female) is an eclectic senior show, depicting different representations of womanhood, from women dancing in a watercolor to multi-colored glass bowls. In her statement Hutchinson said she desires that both women and men celebrate the female in their lives whether mother, sister, daughter, wife or friend. Composed of four watercolors, one hanging mixed media, ten sculptures (including five mini busts of women), and five glass bowls, Hutchinsons show has a definite feminine flair. Shimmering tablecloths adorn the surfaces of her pedestals. Inspirational writing (two taken from other sources and two written by Hutchinson) are housed within ornate frames that sport a real red rose in a little glass bowl. One of Hutchinsons sculptures is also a fountain; its tinkle of water creates a soothing ambience in the gallery. Three disks on iron pedestals stand along the far wall. One in particular, covered with shapes of red, blue, bluegreen, and maroon, stands out. Squiggles and swirls of black lines contrast with the sharp colored layers of glass. The disc rests on a wavy pedestal that is attached to the circular base at the bottom. One of Hutchinsons watercolors depicts a womans body in contraposto from the shoulders to knee. The figure is orange and red, patterned with gold leaf that almost resembles animal markings or camouflage covering. The background, painted in varying shades of blue, is also covered the gold leaf. The entire painting sparkles, highlighting the female form as an object of desire and as a powerful force all its own. Both shows hung from March 13 to the 24.

Rock Out with Your God Out!

Double Edge Pr oductions Productions
Double Edge Productions is a new addition to the entertainment scene and is gaining popularity among young to middle aged people in Billings. The nonsmoking and alcohol-free nightclub has an urban feel and is owned by Ed Trout. It lures in a variety of people and is safe for the whole family. The club is open to people of all ages but is more geared toward the 18 to 30year-old cohort. We wanted a place for people to come, explained Derik Bowen, promoter and band recruiter. The club is open to every Friday and Saturday and there is often live music. Bands like Seventh Day Slumber and Olivia have been featured there. Current events include the Battle of the Bands, Rock Edition that started March 17 and will continue every Friday through May 26 with doors opening at 8:00 p.m. and there is a five dollar cover charge. The battles are open to any band and the entry fee is merely $50; the winner takes all. An Acoustic/Folk Battle of the Bands Edition will be featured this summer. The club also takes an interest in local bands. In addition to being a rock joint, Double Edge is home to a Bible study that meets every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. and is for 18 to 30 years olds are looking for a bible group to join after their high school Bible study. Double Edge is located on Nort 29 in the doors for Yesteryears. For a mental tour, you walk into the door beneath the Double Edge sign. There is a door to the right, left and a door straight ahead leading to stairs. You will go forward and up the stairs. The club has a retro feel to it, and a few small bars that serve refreshments like sodas and nachos and such. The chairs have the look of a 50s soda shop. Our system matches the decibels put out by a jet taking off, explained Bowen. Clearly, they have one of the best sound systems in town and a clean environment that is a positive influence for anyone that is looking for a place to hang.

Photos by Matt Langman Double Edge is a hometown club with a metropolitan feel.

CO TS tudents Sound Of f on Their College Gripes COT Students Off

In my years here at MSU-Billings I have had had a lot of beefs about our school and what I would like to see change in the future. I have asked staff and students questions as to how they would like to improve MSU-B and what they would do. I got to wondering if the College of Technology had some of the same concerns on their campus as we do. Here is what some COT students had to say.

Making the auto body program a three year program rather than a two year program. There are only two people graduating out of 18 because there are so many more classes that have been added to the program (to graduate). We just need more time. Justin Thorgranson Auto Body Program Sydney, MT

More computers! We are always trying to get on a computer for class and they are just always in use! Tyler Blair Auto Body Program Bozeman

More motorcycle parking. Its a big issue especially when its warm out. We are sick of getting ticketed. Jesse Uncles Auto Body Program Bozeman

There is never enough room in the shop. We need more space. Its hard when you want to work on a project and when you do get to work on it, you feel rushed because everyone wants to get their project in the shop! They should also make the auto body program a threeyear program. Kris Thatcher Auto Body Program Hardin, MT

Jessica Anne W ade Wade

Minor: Art Dream job: Something that would allow me to write and paint all day, while simultaneously having good conversation with my friends Top of celebrity make out list: Paul Newman at 30 Famous person youd most like to kick the crap out of: Paris Hilton or Britney Spears or some equally dumb female celebrity who is rich and famous without merit (given I could kick the crap out of anybody). Recurring nightmare: I go to class and realize its half-way through the semester and I havent attended class once or done any homework and I know my professors are going to be disappointed in me.

Nathan P ett er son Pe tter erson

Age: 25 Hometown: Chicago, IL Major: English Minor: Extended English Dream job: Superhero Top of celebrity make out list: Skin from Skunk Anansie Famous person youd most like to kick the crap out of: M. Night Shyamalan Recurring nightmare: Being arrested in a foreign country again

Age: 23 Hometown: Reed Point (home of the plastic sheep statue in front of the post office) Major: English

ASMSU-Billings Student Legal Services It is nearing the end of the semester and school year, a time when a rush to complete tasks seems to hit many people. For those of you who have put off seeking legal advice, please note that certain legal matters cannot be undertaken before the end of the semester and others will be restricted due to limited resources, as follows: Name change: no new cases this semester Family Law, all types: advice only Wills, Living Wills: make appointments before April 19, 2006 All other: check with the office

The attorney, Judy Williams, sees students by appointment only. She is generally available Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to noon plus Monday and Tuesday from 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. Call 657-2365 for an appointment.

Scraping the Barrel: R ules of Engagement Rules

emotional leaking crocodile tears and blowing snot bubbles, bawling like a kid who just found out Santa Claus is really your drunken uncle dressed up in a red suit? She cited several bullet points in her initial lunch-hour disengagement speech. The points are as follows, with their interpretations in parenthesis. 1) Its not you, Its me. (When I say its not you, I really mean that it IS you, dumbass.) 2) Things are just moving too fast for me, and I need space. (Which any guy can interpret as Well, sparky, it was fun while it lasted, but youre a lot like a piece of Bubbalicious thats lost its flavor. I need a new stick of gum.) 3) I still want to be friends. (Even though I dumped you, I hope we can still hang out every now and then so I dont feel so cruddy about treating your feelings like crap.) Okay. Fine. No biggie, mainly because my two primary emotions, anger and apathy, exclude me from more pesky feelings that really get in the way of ordering pizza and enjoying Welcome Back, Kotter. Around 1 a.m. the next morning, she calls me, bawling, professing her undying affection and her desire to take back all she said within the previous fourteen hours. Excellent. I was (and still am, to a point) rather fond of this young lady, so I was all like, Hells, yeah. But lo and behold, five days later, I received the proverbial wasp in the sleeping bag. I was, oddly enough, dumped for the second time in less time it takes to get film developed, and was pretty much stonewalled in the sense I received no explanation why. I felt it necessary to initiate a huge pissing match about this whole mess, and even though she refused me any answers, I took great solace in the fact that I uttered, to the very best of my knowledge, the greatest parting shot in the history of breakups. I dont even care anymore. Save it for Oprah. Yessir. Score one for Mikes bruised ego. Now, back to my article, Im no stranger to being ignored by women. Brother, Ive repelled more women than a comb-over and the clap combined, but this was rather confusing to me. For several months, things were awfully swell, and much like Retort social functions, they turned to pure crap. Now, I have my faults. Im sarcastic, cynical, rude and withdrawn. I squeeze the tube of toothpaste from the middle and refuse to screw the cap back on. I watch DVDs with subtitles on, and I often wear my socks inside out for no real reason. And once, right out of the blue, I tried to highfive her seconds after a particularly impressive sexual encounter. Right up top! Yeah! Im pretty sure this puts me somewhere right in between Adolph Hitler and Captain Kangaroo on the scale of general likeability. By default, Im now the proud owner of a bra and a Miranda Lambert CD she left at my apartment, and I hope she ends up asking for them back so she feels obligated to return my Lonesome Dove DVDs, because I prefer Robert DuVall over womens underwear, despite popular internet rumors. Due to some odd, chemical imbalance, Im only really happy when Im miserable, so I will continue to carefully navigate the corpse-strewn minefield that is dating and relationships, trying (unsuccessfully, more than likely) to avoid all the baggage-laden, sociopathic women who seem to be attracted to me like the homeless are attracted to freecoat day at the Salvation Army. You may ask yourself why I continually to subject myself to various hardships and heartaches. Well, loyal readers, much like Bryan Adams, everything I do, I do it for you. Well, ladies, since the Schragzilla finds himself back in the old saddle, feel free to inquire about my tragically single status either directly or through my fellow Retorters in arms. Just dont leave any voice mails.

Its never easy getting dumped. And Im here to say that when you get dumped twice by the same person in less than a week, well, its downright disheartening, not to mention rather confusing. If I may, allow me to quote my expression directly when I got the old heave-ho via voice mail. Huh?! Tuesday, when my services were no longer required the first time, while we were having lunch she began to cry. That amused me. Im the one getting rejected, so shouldnt I be the one getting all

Does S. Daks Ne w Abor tion La w Cr oss the Line? New Abortion Law Cross
The recent actions by the South Dakota state legislature basically outlawing abortion at any time during pregnancy and regardless of circumstances such as rape, incest and the mothers health are a disturbing sign. The passage of this act signals the opening salvo of the latest battle in the ongoing war over what rights and responsibilities individuals have over their reproductive health. And if the state has any business interfering in this highly personal sphere of decision making. The South Dakota law which flies in the face of the Supreme courts decisions in Roe vs. Wade and Planned Parenthood vs. Casey will likely make its way though the court system until once again the U.S. Supreme Court is called upon to rule on this controversial topic. Why did the balloon go up on this fight now? Because for the first time in three decades the Pro-Life side of the debate thinks it sees a light at the end of the tunnel in its crusade to turn back the clock to the days prior to Roe. The cause of that light the appointment and confirmation to the high court of Chief Justice John Roberts and Associate Justice Samuel Alito. These two men may swing the balance of the court toward the pro-life side and, with their comparative youth, keep it there for the foreseeable future. I believe, as do most of the people I know, on the Pro-Choice side, that abortion should be safe, rare and legal. That for abortion law to become a patchwork of 50 state laws (plus laws in D.C. and other American territories.) each restricting or allowing a womans right to choose would be unacceptable. Such a system would be an affront to the privacy and medical rights of women. I also believe that if social conservatives were really interested in limiting or preventing abortions, instead of what I believe to be their actual objective of restoring women to a pre feminine mystique, heck, a pre 19th Amendment status in American life, they would lift their objections to such things as contraceptives, condoms and comprehensive sex education. I believe that if political conservatives were really interested in outlawing abortion instead of keeping it around to use as a wedge issue designed to get much of middle class America to vote against their economic and environmental best interests, it would have already happened. Finally, I believe that if any persons rights are abrogated, then everybodys rights are. That if womens rights become restricted it will be a slippery slope and sooner rather then later the Supreme Court will be reconsidering cases and laws that give other rights (like Brown vs. The Board of Education or New York Times vs. the United States) eventually fundamentally eroding our most basic freedoms outlined in the Bill of Rights. A recent bill just went through the South Dakota legislature banning all abortions in the state. This bill directly opposes the verdict in the case of Roe v. Wade. This controversial bill is being met with resistance, and is expected to be appealed to the Supreme Court. Critics feel that with the recent appointment of Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Associate Justice Alito the decision will be upheld. The ban states that it is a felony for doctors to perform any abortion except to save the life of a pregnant woman. The controversy stems from the fact that women will no longer be able to get abortions in the case of rape or incest. South Dakota decided not to allow these exceptions because they felt it would weaken the message of the bill. It would not provide a strong front that abortion is wrong no matter what. Although I think that excluding rape and incest cases is a bit extreme, I agree with the ban in most other ways. I think it is time people started taking responsibility for their actions. There are plenty of contraceptive methods available at an affordable price. Planned Parenthood provides affordable birth control methods. Some people argue that the lack of education about contraceptive is to blame for unwanted pregnancies. I personally dont believe people are that nave. Most people who engage in unprotected sex know that they can become pregnant. Critics argue this ban takes away womens rights, but what about the rights of their child? A woman does not have the right to abuse their child after birth, so why would killing an unborn child be any different? I do want to reiterate, I do not support the fact that this ban does not consider extenuating circumstances such as rape and incest, but there are many contraceptive options. In cases of rape and incest, there is also the option of adoption. There are millions of women who cant have children and it seems wrong to me that women who can are not taking the responsibility seriously. I think it is time to take a hard look at whom we are electing to our legislatures. Whatever side of this issue you take, it is the responsibility of every citizen to elect people who support their views. If you do not like the bill being passed, go out there and do something about it.

Smok e Signals of T ruce: One Smok er Blo ws it Up Y our ... Smoke Truce: Smoker Blows Your
The once socially acceptable practice of smoking is becoming a thing of the past. As America moves toward an era that looks down on smoking, smokers have been forced to become more restricted. Designated smoking areas are the new cool thing and smokers are going to have to deal with the inconvenience for the good of others or kick the nasty habit. Lets start at square one; smoking is not all that cool. I myself am a smoker and I can testify that smoking neither taste good or smells good. Its offensive when you walk into an area reeking of stale cigarettes and expect others to pretend you dont stink, you do. As Montana progresses in the fight against public smoking smokers are becoming more bitter about the happenings day by day. Well, just to let you know Montana ing, so people dont have to nonsmokers choice not to is behind the times. deal with it. smoke must be respected. Not California banned She went on to say, If all people want their daily dose smoking in public buildings you dont like smoke, dont go of secondhand smoke. Other nine years ago. Other states to the bar. Many smokers are smokers feel differently than I have more recently banned reacting to the new laws in this do. smoking. In 2002, South manner. They feel that their Holly Hartford, a MSUDakota passed legislation that right to smoke has been Billings student explained, I prohibits smoking in any think its crap! Theres a reason infringed upon. In the public building except bars. In preamble to the Declaration of the restaurants were separated 2002, Delaware refused Independence it states We into smoking and non smoksmoking anywhere. Other hold these Truths to be states, such as Rhode self-evident, that all Island, Maine, Men are created equal, Massachusetts and that they are endowed, Utah dont allow by their Creator, with smoking in any public certain unalienable places, not even in Rights, that among bars. Montanans these are Life, Liberty, should be happy that and the Pursuit of they have been given Happiness. If you as this much liberty to a smoker are harming smoke where they another person or wish for this long. being offensive there is While I agree to a problem. When you a certain extent that it think about it, should is a personal liberty the person not doing that I should be anything have to be allowed to enjoy, I am inconvenienced, or also a smoker who Photo by Olivia Koernig should the person who understands that New laws may further segregate those who is being offensive have smoking can be smoke. the burden of moving offensive, and the and smoking in an area that is respectful to the rights of a nonsmoker? Here are my rules that any smoker should follow: 1. Dont smoke in the middle of a table of nonsmokers or blow smoke toward a nonsmoker. Even if they dont say anything, they dont like it. 2. Dont smoke in areas with children. Its tacky and wrong. 3. Dont smoke right next to a main doorway, the smoke goes in when the door opens. 4. Stop littering. Cigarette butts dont go on the ground. 5. Pay attention to what is going on around you. Dont hold up the traffic to light a cigarette. Dont stop in the middle of a moving crowd. Dont take your eyes off the road for the sake of a cigarette, nobody like wrecks especially for such a dumb reason. Thats all I have to say about that matter. Happy smoking!

Unsung Her oes: An Essa y on Behalf of Those Who Ser ve Heroes: Essay Serv
For the record, Im strongly opposed to the war in Iraq. I think its pointless and is ultimately about capital not justice. However it does not mean I dislike those who proudly serve in our military. I dont believe they get enough credit. Anyone willing to give their life for a cause will always be a hero to me, even if I dont understand or agree with that cause. However there is also another group of soldiers that doesnt get enough credit. They fight on the frontlines every day, also giving of themselves in a truly selfless manner. This war exists right here on our own soil. It has many names: poverty, ignorance, inequality, racism, sexism, homophobia, and the list goes on. The soldiers Im talking about are volunteers. I think we are too quick to overlook the everyday people who serve their country not by picking up a gun, but by picking up those who have fallen in our own society. They work long hours, rarely ,if ever, get any benefits and almost always make no money. They pour their hearts and souls into making our country better. They feed those who can not afford food. They educate those who are ignorant. They do all of those jobs that none of us would do without considerable pay, and they do it for free. No fancy government benefits for them, just the satisfaction of a job well done. So how do we repay these heroes? Several years ago the federal government cut funding to Americorps, a volunteer service program by 90 percent. As a result over 300 Americorps programs nationwide had to close. Others were so financially dabilitated that they had to reduce the services they provide drastically. A large portion of that funding has now been restored, but the damage has been done. Take for example the governments stance on refusing to give federal tax breaks to volunteer stipends. Currently the few volunteers who are lucky enough to receive a living stipend (usually well below minimum wage, are still subject to income taxes on that money!) The current administration has supported this position saying that people should volunteer because they want to and therefore should not receive a tax break or even PAY. I do agree that people should volunteer because they want to, but in order to keep a number of non-profits going volunteers often put in 40 or more hours a week. On top of that they work a normal job to pay the bills and take care of any other responsibilities. The point is that these people are not just giving one or two hours a week, they are working full time for FREE! Another way we repay these hardworking people is by making it more difficult for them to go to school. Currently there are only a handful of schools, mostly private, that match the Americorps education award given to a volunteer at the end of their service. A large number of schools have rejected this idea, calling it frivolous, and not financially wise. The average Americorps award is only $2,100 and if you have spent the past year doing volunteer work for no money, it is very hard to go pay for school on your Americorps award alone, especially if you are under 24 and still have to claim your parents income on your FAFSA. The ultimate insult is to these people is ignoring them. Weve all seen groups asking people to volunteer their time, and what do we do? We ignore them. We cant even give them one or two hours a week to help out. So this is an official salute to all of those who have ever fed a hungry family, or stayed up until 2 in the morning comforting a child that wasnt theirs, or who have tried to live on less than minimum wage in order to help others. These people are my heroes and I think if you know someone who is a volunteer, you owe it to them to say thank you. After all, if they didnt do it, would you?

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Baseball Squad Finding Its Footing

After going 0-18 (0-12 HLC) to start the season, the MSU-Billings Yellowjacket baseball team may have found its footing as they have won five out of their last six games, including three straight Heartland Conference wins over Oklahoma Panhandle. Of course at 5-19 (3-13 HLC), MSU-B still has much ground to gain before threatening the top of the standings. I really think that our record is not indicative of the progress we have made, said head coach Chris Brown. Our guys are in an adjustment period as they get used to playing a higher level of competition than they are used to and I am impressed with what I have seen. The Jackets winning streak comes as they prepare to conclude the season with a prolonged homestand, taking to the Cobb Field diamond for 22 games in 29 days. Included in that slate of games are four games against each of the five Heartland Conference opponents as well as a non-conference doubleheader against Central Washington University. MSU-B already has two home games under their belts, as on March 17 and 18 the Jackets played host to Northwest Nazarene. The Crusaders took the Friday doubleheader, winning game one 10-8 and the nightcap 8-1. Saturday was a different story, as in game one pitcher Dave Ducharme went the distance giving up just two runs on four hits and striking out seven while MSU-B lit up the scoreboard en route to an 11-2 victory. Game two saw infielder Kyle Pryor go two for four and score two runs as the jackets came back from an early 2-0 deficit to win 4-2 earning the sweep. Getting that first one out of the waygetting that monkey off our back so to speakwas big, said Brown. You saw the importance of that in the second game. The guys believed they could win. Winning is contagious. Getting the first one out of the way sets the tone that if we play the way were capable, we can be a good ball club. Brown also said that the support that the team has received from Billings baseball fans has been critical to any success so far, the biggest crowds we have seen all year were here at home that first weekend, and I think it will get even better as the weather warms up and people realize the quality of baseball that is played at this level. Brown went on to explain that despite the use of aluminum bats, fans will see a brand of baseball more akin to that seen each summer when the Billings Mustangs play, as opposed to the high school-aged American Legion ball clubs. Says Brown, Not to take anything away from the Scarlets or Royals, but I think there is a notable difference between how high school level players and our guys approach the mental aspects of the game. The next time MSU-B will be in action April 7-8, as nationally ranked St. Edwards comes to Cobb field for a pair of doubleheaders. Game times on Friday are 2:00 and 4:30 p.m. On Saturday the Hilltoppers and Jackets lock heads at 1:00 and 3:30 p.m.

Photo by Matt Langman Yellowjacket Baseball has made immeasurable improvements this season.

Lady Jac k e ts Pla y Ex citing Sof tball

as MSU-B defeated the Hawks 6-1. Game two saw the offence take center stage, as led by The MSU-Billings Lady Christy Wankel who went 3-4 Yellowjacket softball season with two runs and two RBIs the has come down to the final three Jackets won 8-4. weekends of home games and The road once again despite the teams struggles this came calling the weekend of year with a record of March 18-19 as 7-17, head coach MSU-B completed Sean McGary still its non-conference thinks that fans will schedule with a pair enjoy a trip out to of double headers at Cenex Stadium to CU-Colorado see the Lady Jackets Springs. The Mounplay. Compared to tain Lions took the the team that went to first three games of the regional tournathe series and the ment last year, we Jackets were ahead are a young team and 8-1 with the bases it shows sometimes, loaded in the top of but we still play an the fifth inning of exciting brand of the fourth game softball, putting the when lighting forced ball in play and runs the game to be called on the board. off just four outs The MSU-B short of becoming squad, largely made official. The Coloup of freshmen and rado trip was a dissophomores, has alappointment, said ready shown flashes McGary. We Photo courtesy of Yellowjacket Athletics played really well in of good things to These Lady Jackets are young and ripe with talent. come. Earlier in the season they defeated the number five team in the nation, Southern IllinoisEdwardsville, by a convincing score of 7-2handing the Cougars one of only three losses in the season. The Jackets have also prevailed in their only two home games of the season, sweeping NAIA Dickinson St. in a doubleheader on March 11. Game one saw starting pitcher Lisa Moore throw a complete game, giving up just one run on six hits while striking out the three games we dropped and when it looked liked we could win the fourth game the weather intervened and we had to pack it in. The next portion of the schedule for MSU-B was a twelve game road trip to start the Heartland Conference portion of their schedule with the Jackets playing four games each at longtime rival Western New Mexico as well as the two San Antonio area schools: St. Marys and Incarnate Word. The Cardinals went into the matchup with MSU-B ranked number 15 in the nation. April 7-8 will see the Jackets begin a 12 game homestand to conclude the regular season. This weekend MSU-B will take on Oklahoma Panhandle in two doubleheaders. Game times both Friday and Saturday will be 3 and 5 p.m. The Jackets will also be in action on the Cenex Stadium diamond the following two weekends, taking on St. Edwards April 14-15 and Lincoln April 21-22.

A Vie wF rom Section View Fr 106: Puc k! Puck!

Growing up when I did (1984present) and as I did, a baseball fan(a Minnesota Twins fans in particular) there is no question that my all-time favorite baseball player is or was Kirby Puckett. From about a month before I was born, when he broke into the majors with a four-hit game against the California Angels, until about a month before my twelfth birthday when an eye injury forced his premature retirement from baseball, Kirby Puckett was the iconic figure on the Minnesota Twins roster. Leading the small market franchise to two World Series championships in 1987, and 1991 and becoming the Twins all time leader in hits, total bases and runs scored. But what made Puckett my favorite player and endeared him to his coaches, teammates, opponents and millions of baseball fans across not only the upper Midwest but across the globe, is the way he played a game. In an era where superstars such as Barry Bonds and Jose Conseco came off to the press and public as distant and even hostile, Puckett was (to borrow a nickname from another Minnesotan, Hubert Humphrey) the Happy Warrior. In the clubhouse or on TV he was always cracking jokes and had an unforgettable smile on his face, but when game time came around he was all business giving a 110 percent performance each and every day. As ESPNs Dan Patrick wrote I always knew I was getting my moneys worth when I saw Kirby play. Puckett also was an extraordinary philanthropist and Kirby Puckett played baseball in a way that community-minded individual, few men can compare. unlike many players, he not only donated millions of dollars and next spring training . It was not to be, his time to support education and however, as on March 5, 2006, Kirby health care efforts in the Twin Cities Puckett suffered a massive stroke and surrounding area, but actually dying early the next day. He was 45 made his off season home there years old. integrating his himself and his family As I reflect on what Kirby into the community at a level rarely Puckett meant to me I have decided seen in this age of free agency. that there are two things that I would All of this led to his first ballot like to thank him for: election as an inductee to the National 1. For being the Happy WarBaseball Hall of Fame in 2001. I was rior- for bringing the same joy and at that induction ceremony, along with intensity to your playing of the game my dad and what seemed like half of of baseball that many of us bring to the population of the upper Midwest. I watching or writing about it. listened intently as Puck talked about 2. For showing me that life is growing up in the all too dangerous not about being perfect but about housing projects of south Chicago, being human. This revelation was how his parents sacrificed to give him from Kirbys indiscretions even more the opportunity to attend Bradley so than Bill Clinton that I learned University where he was discovered once and for all that we cannot create by major league scouts and how his an image of ourselves or another family (his mother, wife and kids) person before for we have all the along with the coaches and players facts. And that once we have all the throughout the Twins organization and facts we must weigh the positive and baseball and millions of fans had the negative and hope in the final helped make him who he was and to judgment we come out ahead on the face life after his eye injury. positive side. It was about a year or 18 months after that glorious day in the Rest in peace # 34. Cooperstown sun that the other shoe dropped. Kirby Puckett had another side and it was now on display for the entire world to read about. Following an altercation in a public restroom in suburban Minneapolis, a woman pressed sexual assault charges against Puckett. The ensuing media coverage uncovered a somewhat disturbing history of negative behavior against women, including a long term sexual relationship with a women, not his wife. Although Puckett was acquitted of the assault charges the damage to his reputation was done. Puckett moved out of the Twin cities area to Phoenix, Arizona where in recent years he had become somewhat of a recluse. His weight ballooned to the point where his friends began to worry about him. In just the last few months of his life, though, things seemed to be turning around. Puckett spoke of losing the extra weight and getting remarried in June and of perhaps rejoining the Twins organization as a special instructor

ASMSU-B PRESENTS ITS 16TH ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT

10:00 A.M. SA TURD AY, SATURD TURDA APRIL 15, 2006 Ag es 0-10 Ages
MEET AT THE PEAKS TO PLAINS PARK on the MSU-BILLINGS CAMPUS EVERYONE IS INVITED TO ATTEND. BRING YOUR KIDS, GRANDKIDS, ETC. WE HAVE STUFFED 8,000 EGGS FOR THIS EVENT.

ne fine day, I walked to the store to buy some bread for a ham sandwich, which I was very much looking forward to eating. As I approached my destination, I could see that the entire grocery store had been replaced with an enormous crater which covered the entire block. I pondered, What could ever cause such destruction and devastation? Then it hit me, Of coursePuppies. I remembered my childhood when I had a puppy and the rate at which they would consume food. The little K-9 nearly took my hand off when I tried to feed him. Obviously, the grocery store had been attacked by a horde of puppies hell bent on gorging themselves on the buffet that resided within. This was the only hypothesis that made any sense. I decided to investigate. I cautiously moved toward the grocery stores previous location, expecting to see puppies laying about with their bellies full; much like Uncle Harold on Thanksgiving. I inched toward the mouth of the crater and poked my head over the lip. There, lounging on the ground was a sight I certainly had not expected to see. Instead of hundreds of puppies, there lay but one creature; an evil psycho monkey. I inadvertently made a small

A Short Story by Mar k Chepulis Mark

shriek of terror and the psycho monkey, with his superior hearing, zoned in on the sound I made. He looked at me and grinned; his teeth gnashing together and his lips slightly curled over his teeth. There was only one thing I could do. The only thing I knew how to do when face to face with an evil psycho monkey; run like a coward. I ran as fast as I could toward the only restaurant in town. I burst in the door shrieking like a threeyear-old girl who had just been robbed of her candy. Over my cries of panic, I managed to eek out three words, evilpsychomonkey. There was a short pause as the patrons and employees of the establishment digested what I just uttered. Mass panic quickly ensued. As people were fleeing the restaurant, I decided to stay and hide hoping the evil little critter would find interest in some other person and perhaps decide to accost them instead. No such luck. When the last person had fled, there stood the little primate. The evil psycho monkey was breathing was deeply, his little chest heaving in and out with a steady breath. In one hand, he held a six-inch cleaver and in the other, a rolling pin. On his body he wore a little apron which said, Sweetheart of the Kitchen in big purple letters and under the statement was a picture of a big red heart. He moved toward me with an evil grin on his lips and a wicked expression on his face. I grabbed the closest thing to a weapon I could quickly lay my hands on, a pot full of scalding hot coffee. As the evil monkey came within range, I hurled the burning hot liquid at his head. The pot shattered as piping hot coffee and glass covered the little creature. For a brief instant, I was over come by a short-lived wave of relief. For a few seconds, I felt glorified in my victory, but, only for a few seconds. The evil psycho monkey emerged as something other than organic. I could see bits of flesh covering what appeared to be titanium metal. Whatever notions of victory I had once had were now replaced with feelings of shock and horror. The only thing worse than an evil psycho monkey is an evil robot psycho monkey. I had to think fast. I remembered when I was a little boy sitting on my grandpas knee. I remembered him saying something about evil robot psycho monkeys, but what did he say about them? Trying to concentrate on that particular moment of my youth, the metal beast regained its wits and nearly cut off my left arm with the cleaver he had gripped in his hand. I suddenly remembered the advice once given to me regarding evil robot psycho monkeys. I could remember so clearly now. Me, sitting on old grandpas knee while he was reclining in his rocking chair out on the porch. The birds chirping, the smell of his pipe was now very fresh in my memory. He took a puff of his pipe and said in a wise, thoughtful voice, My boy, whenever confronted with an evil robot psycho monkey, always remember, the self-destruct button is located directly on his right nipple. Now be a good boy fetch grandpas whiskey. With this event now so clear in my mind, I quickly looked for something with which to press this button. I spotted a broom on the other side of the large dining room. This would work perfectly if it were not for the fact that the only thing between me and the life saving device was the evil robot psycho monkey. I only had one choice, use what ninja skills I could muster to flip across the room, dodging the evil robot as best I could. I took a deep breath and began flipping and jumping, dodging every strike the metal creature took at me. At last I reached the broom. Summoning my spear throwing skills, I flung the broom right at the monkeys right pectoral region. I scored a direct hit. At last, it was the monkey who had a look of panic. I heard a steady beep emanating from his little metal head. I knew then he was going to explode with the power equal to at least several pounds of T.N.T. There was only one thing I could do. The only thing I knew how to do when face to face with an exploding evil robot psycho monkey, run like a coward. I ran as fast as I could and jumped for cover behind the closest thing I could find for shelter, an old rusted out Chevy which had been deteriorating in Old Man Johnsons yard since 1948. It wasnt much, but it was certainly better than nothing. Just as I curled up behind the eye sore, I heard the explosion. Debris was falling from the sky but luckily, none of it found my place of refuge. I got up and started walking home, pondering the days events. I noticed my stomach rumbling and realized I never did get the bread to make that ham sandwich I was craving. I turned the corner to the nearest convenience store when I found nothing but a hole in the ground where the store should have been. I approached cautiously, the whole time wanting to just walk away. I came within ten feet of the hole with over the lip of the crater poured out dozens and dozens of puppies, each with a hungry look in its eye. I ran as fast as I could, not wanting to be eaten. I dove into my house, slamming the door behind me. Leaning against the door and out of breath, I considered the days events. I decided when next time I approach a crater where my favorite grocery or convenient store should be, I might want to bring somebody I can out run. Just in case there is another encounter with an evil psycho monkey or ferocious masticating puppies.

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Desire
I am barren: people view this hollowed shell, but does sincerity fly from their flattering tongues? Words long to escape this desert prison, but he that caresses and reigns my life crushes those brilliant lyrics into aphetic mess. Fear The Fear holds dominion over my pure actions, words, and thoughts The comedian inciting blithe laughter; The sage devising the radiant path for humanity; the romantic spilling his pristine heart, and leaving it to the lucent wind to relay throughout the world: all entombed within, condemned to observe from within this bleak frame. This longing is a blade cleaving my world in two: compounding this lack of worth. The fringe of life sentences me todesolation. Fear never abates its garrote; it bleeds away the luminous desire pounding within. Mother, I am thy onyx child, bereft of the joy of dazzling dawn. Cast me into the astral waste, for I cannot walk the blessed pathway of humanity any longer.

P oems b yR oc kw ell Hinkle by Roc ockw kwell

Fader
Aural wasteScream venom, and slice away my fleshly existence!!! Your waves are a conflagrant blaze, biding their time and corroding my essence. Ineffective lyrics, blasphemous rhythmsGive me repetition, and I shall wither as the white rose when fed with such sanguineous essence. What you call beauty I call movement in desolation. Walk in silent devastation: barren as the sounds that envelop you, that crimson betrayer which left you to rot in obscurity. And know that where once knowledge sprung out to envelop life, now only a titanic vacuity lies.

Vol. 25, Issue 1 8, F eb. 1 8, 19 72 18, Feb. 18, 1972

TV Turnoff Week
April 24 - 30, 2006 Find some thing something else t o do with to your free time, lik e...read a book! like...read

Miranda s Pic ks Mirandas Picks

1. The Fisher King 2. Anchorman 3. Angelas Ashes 4. The Inn of the Sixth Happiness 5. Initial D

Photo by Jens Selvig EMCs Larry Brown drives in for two of his nine points during the Jackets 91-88 overtime win over Western Tuesday night.