ST.

CATHERINE UNIVERSITY STUDENT NEWSPAPER

THE Wheel
December 12, 2011 - VOLUME 79 ISSUE 7

Students pose with their meals in the cafeteria. Top, left to right: Nou Lor 13, Ally Dieryck 15, Abby Malley 15, Cindy Vang 14, Nicole Villanueva 15. Bottom, left to right: Alicia Huber 14, Katie LaMotte 13, Kim Munoz 12, PaKou Yang 13, Nina Bukowski 15. Photo illustration by Ka Thao.

Food Week list of demands gains momentum

By Becky Doucette
associate editor
Food justice priorities at St. Catherine University (SCU) emerge as a center of discussion for the SCU community. A combination of students, faculty, administration, Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet (CSJ) and Sodexo are examining how to make food that is served daily through SCU a more equitable system. Food Week was a launch to a year long campaign for food justice at SCU, food justice organizer and SCU junior Liesl Wolf said. Through surveys that we conducted throughout food week we compiled the data and found that there are four really big issues that seem to be pertinent to the student population, and with that we created four demands that we presented to Sodexo, Curt Galloway and [the] administration. The four demands created out of the Food Week surveys asked to create community around food, to use local and affordable

SCU anticipates its Higher Learning Commission evaluation

By Caitlyn Witt
senior staff writer
As an educational institution, St. Catherine University (SCU) begins to prepare for its 10-year institutional re-accreditation by The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, a branch of the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). This is scheduled to take place from Feb. 25-27, 2013. Receiving re-accreditation provides assurance to prospective students and the public, for it allows SCU to improve the quality of the educational insitution. Dean Alan Silva, the chair of SCUs HLC Steering Committee, along with 15 other members consisting of faculty, staff and administrators were chosen in Sept. 2010 by SCU President Sr. Andrea Lee, IHM, to be on the committee. Silva emphasized the difference between institutional accreditation and program

Index: Opinion:2-3 features:4-6 health:7 sports:8

Inspiration to mobilize

foods, to keep open and honest dialogue and to consider racial equity and accessibility when considering food. Curt Galloway, the Dean of Student Affairs, spoke on making these demands more specific so that goals can be achieved both short- and long-term. We were kind of talking about next steps, and about their role [and] my role and asking me for some feedback, Galloway said. The feedback that I gave to them was to become more specific and to clarify what it is that youre after. This is a huge undertaking, and to be successful you dont want to die on the vine just by the sheer size of it. The preliminary survey data that was collected and analyzed from Food Week, most recently updated Dec. 7, breaks down 239 surveys from the SCU community and gives a foundation for what food justice issues should be worked on. One of the questions on the survey asked, Would you like a community garden on campus? Out of the responses, 86 percent who answered claimed yes. Only 5 percent responded with no. Food justice organizer and senior SCU student Cirien Saadeh spoke on the initial

opportunity about potentially having a community garden on campus. One of my favorite things that has come out of Food Week is a student, Alicia Moder, who was inspired in part by Food Week and has talked with students and started putting together essentially a game plan for what a community garden could look like on campus, and is doing research on that, Saadeh said. Another project surrounding food justice is the racial equality impact analysis reflection both the food justice organizers and Sodexo are compiling. This analysis was used during Food Week, and Eric Goodrich, the General Manager from Sodexo, described what the analysis was and his initial reaction to the task. Its kind of a survey of our entire operation on racial equality and food, and were trying to figure out exactly what that means, Goodrich said. Its a challenge within itself and trying to figure out exactly what [Saadeh and Wolf are] looking for. Sodexo has committed to completing the analysis by Jan. 15 in preparation for the new semester. The food justice organizers will also be conducting their analysis by this date and they are in process of asking Galloway to do the same. accreditation. We have many programs at SCU that are accredited by organizations who oversee and regulate quality for individual programs,Silva said. Individual programs have a regular cycle of program assessment, self-study, external review and re-accreditation. This work is conducted by individual program directors and the faculty in the program, in consultation with Dean MaryAnn Janosik and Senior Vice President Colleen Hegranes. Institutional accreditation, as defined by the HLC, speaks to the overall quality of the institutions without making judgments about specific programs...institutional accreditation is accreditation of all programs, sites and methods of delivery. The SCU Mission & Vision web page explains how the mission statement, Educate students to lead and influence, is implemented. At all degree levels, SCU integrates liberal

On the cover of when you go to stkate. edu theres a picture and it says Celebrate Diversity, and if that is what we are presented as, is that what were showing, is that actually happening? Wolf said. A lot of people looking at the survey data would say that is not happening in our food institution. The analysis will also compare the Minneapolis and St. Paul campuses. Racial equity has everything to do with Food Justice, Saadch said. When youre looking at race, you are also looking at issues of class. When you are looking at disparities between both campuses, you are seeing stark, racial disparities...If SCU is putting Minneapolis as second priority in terms of food equality, and in terms of other equity issues, then I will tell you, youve got it wrong. The disparity between the two campuses that Saadeh speaks of references the fact that the Minneapolis campus, which is primarily students of color, only has a serving space for food. Over the past semester, more options have been added to the deli as Sodexo has been trying to work with the space provided. Until theres some significant renovations

See MOBILIZE pg. 2

arts and professional education within the Catholic tradition, emphasizing intellectual inquiry and social teaching and challenging students to transformational leadership. Committed to excellence and opportunity, St. Catherine University develops ethical, reflective and socially responsible leaders, informed by the philosophy of the womens college and the spirit of the founders. Some students believe that the university has done an excellent job in upholding the mission statement and bringing out the best in their education. Being that Communications Studies is a liberal arts major, we do service learning, junior communications studies and electronic media studies major Khou Yang said. [it] integrates with SCUs mission statement and we get involved in the SCU and Twin Cities

Preparation for accreditation

See ACCREDITATION pg. 3

This newspaper, like many other things, is recyclable. Online at thewheel-scu.tumblr.com

2 | The Wheel

NEWS & OPINION

December 12, 2011

Letter to the Editor:

Dear Editor, During my first year at St. Catherine University (SCU), I was trying to find where I fit in, both at the university and in the world. I decided to go to Denver, Colorado, with Campus Ministry on a Justice Immersion Trip that focused on homelessness. I knew nothing about this issue, but with my increasing interest in sociology and learning about injustices, I took the opportunity. I didnt realize that a single trip to Denver could have such impact on my life. A large part of that impact was from Ned Moore, Social Justice Coordinator at SCU and trip leader; a person known for donning his plaid shirt, jeans, ivy cap and mismatched shoes. That trip proved to be a powerful experience for me, and Im sure it was for other student participants. Not only did I have the opportunity to talk with people experiencing homelessness, I learned about the numerous other issues within and surrounding it. Through reflections, I learned about the system of oppression, its roots and how power plays a significant role in keeping certain people up and others down. The most important thing I learned on that trip was from Ned, and it was that I have power. Before, I spent my time just gathering knowledge from my classes, getting angry with the world, not knowing what or how I can change it. The realization that I have personal power has influenced The commission is being put in place to not only sustain organizing this year, but [to] also sustain food justice organizing in the future at SCU in a way thats recognized by the college and already formed so new organizing has to happen every year, but doesnt have to start at the ground, Saadeh said. However, the commission, Saadeh and Wolf have their work cut out for them as they move forward. Weve talked about how much of who we are has to do with food, and the people sitting down together [and] dining together, Galloway said. Its a part of our hospitality, its part of who we are, and thats true in so many institutions and in our families, so we want to have a good experience. I also think we really need to make sure that the community is on board with all of this. Goodrich and Sodexo will continue to work with the food justice organizers with their commitment to open dialogue, but he notes that there will have to be some changes in the demands for goals to be implemented me to lead and not back down. Since the trip, Ned has been a mentor for me. He has challenged me to be a leader for change by using my power to fulfill my vision of an equitable and just world. Being a leader is something I, at first, did not want to become and didnt think I was capable of being. Ned has always believed in me throughout my journey of becoming a leader, even when I did not believe in myself. I am just one of the many here at SCU that Ned has inspired. Were all sad to see Ned leaving us, but he is a leader for all of us; challenging our thoughts and actions, daring us to speak up, to never compromise our values and to never back down. To meand Id think others would agreeNed demonstrates what SCU is all about: building ethical, reflective and socially responsible leaders to lead and influence. Ned has had an impact on every corner of our campuses, inspiring leadership and change within our community.We know that he will always be a continuing inspiration for us and other communities, and we will have his support for our continuous work to create change. Although Ned will no longer be working with us here at SCU, he will always be an honorary Katie. Sincerely,

No more Study Monday?!

Janine Shug 15 and Alex Kennedy 15 pose in frustration with their schoolwork in The Pulse. Photo illustration by Ashley de los Reyes. This semester, students at St. Catherine University (SCU) found something was missing from the finals week schedule: Study Monday. In the past, there has been a weekend between the last day of classes and the start of finals, with a completely open Monday for studying or catching up on other work. The Wheel recently conducted a survey of 100 students asking them how they felt about the omission of Study Monday this semester. The results show that most are not pleased with the change. Survey and graph by Heather Kolnick.

Liesl Wolf 13

MOBILIZE continued...
to the facilities down there were very limited to what we can do, Goodrich said. There is basically a serving area; its set up as a deli and thats all it really has been. We are very much stretching the confines of what its intent is. The Master Space Plan, also referred to as the 2020 Vision, will include revisions to the overall space used on the Minneapolis campus, which includes the possibility of a kitchen for better dining services in the future. The other thing thats emerged is the Minneapolis campus, and a kind of, redesign

of the two buildings that are over there and a reallocation of a significant amount of space over there, Galloway said. Weve been thinking actually about taking what we have now and completely moving it to the other side, the west side of Old Main, where theres a larger space. As the projects continue to grow, there has been an inclusion of the unofficial, unchartered Food Justice Steering Commission, which includes faculty, staff, professors, Sisters of Saint Joseph (CSJs) and students. This commission originally came together for Food Week but continues now as a force for food justice at SCU.

WHEELSTAFF
Volume 79, issue 7
Editor-in Chief: ALEXA CHIHOS Layout Designer: SARAH WENTE Associate Editor: BECKY DOUCETTE Sections Editor: ANNE MOE Copy Editor: ANNA HAYES Photo Editor: HEATHER KOLNICK Photographers: ASHLEY DE LOS REYES, SARAH KICZULA, KA THAO Cartoonist: CAROLYN PIVEC Adviser: SHEILA ELDRED Senior Staff Writers: CAITLYN WITT, RACHEL ARMSTRONG Staff Writers: ASHLEY SKWIERA, KAILEY RICHTER, DANA ALEMAM If you would like to contribute to The Wheel, please contact us at wheel@stkate.edu.

ST. CATHERINE UNIVERSITY

in the future. There doesnt seem to be a very unified message, Goodrich said, Some of the things are very vague, and they have to be, which makes it difficult for us to figure out realistic implementation. We live in a world where we produce a specific menu and we have a budget to work in. Youre talking about emotions and feelings in an operational world. Sometimes those are two different worlds. The food justice work will continue as a work-in-progress at SCU. But the challenge for us then is to figure out how to reach students because theyve expressed the interest to know what is going on, and any organizing that happens in the future has to come from that awareness because SCU students believe in social justice, Saadeh said. Thats a value of the college. Becky can be reached at rjdoucette@stkate.edu.

MISSION STATEMENT
The Wheel aspires to reflect the diversity and unique atmosphere that comprises St. Catherine University. We strive to provide an inclusive newspaper primarily for the students and by the students. The Wheel promotes the vision of empowering women to lead and influence as well as an understanding of the university community inside and outside of the gates. As a staff we aim to meet the highest journalistic standards and stand in accordance with the 1st Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America and policies of prior restraint. The Wheel is not a public relations vehicle for any SCU individual, group, department or for the college as a whole. We welcome feedback and encourage an open discourse. The Wheel is supported by student funds and is distributed free of charge.

c h a r i t y a l l 2 0 1 1
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Right: First year students Keisha Thomas, Valerie Ancheta, Olivia Hood and Danielle Novack enjoy their first Charity Ball at SCU. Bottom: Professor of English Cecilia Konchar Farr raises her glass with SCU students.

Photos by Heather Kolnick.

December 12, 2011 ACCREDITATION continued...

community. Through my majors courses and involvement with the SCU community, the university really influences [me] to be a different person coming in as a first-year and out the doors as a graduating senior. In regards to the liberal arts courses, which are the primary focus of the university, students have some positive feedback. I [believe] that my The Reflective Woman (TRW) class has led me to become a better leader, and I actually quite honestly think it was the way my class was taught and by whom that made me a better leader, junior American Sign Language major Alyssa Hilleren said. My Theology 1000 class with Professor [Ed] Sellner has made me a better person I believe. Im more informed and I know more about my background and who I am as a person because of my religion and he has done a really great job of explaining other religions and helping me understand myself better, which I believe has made a difference on who I am and made me a better person. Some students do not agree that SCU has upheld the mission statement and believe it has affected their education. I understand that the liberal arts are helpful to most students, but some courses just dont seem relevant to my major, senior nursing student Rachel OConnell said. The ones that have helped me are the ones that can transfer into my nursing program, like the science courses, but some courses like the CORE courses, TRW and Global Search for Justice (GSJ), just dont seem relevant to the work I want to do...if they provide a GSJ course related to nursing or if the CORE courses had more specific subjects relating to certain majors I believe they would be a lot more helpful and interesting for students. Sophomore biology major Britta Wass

NEWS & OPINION

agrees with OConnell. TRW needs to be revamped... Wass said. I know some people enjoy their class, but its a hit or miss. We [also] need more classes within our major that are leadershiporiented, Wass said. The HLC Steering Committee is responsible for creating strategies and plans for a successful accreditation in which an institution is evaluated in terms of its mission and HLCs criteria, it accredits the university as a whole. A university is evaluated on governance and administration, financial stability, admissions and student services according to the The Higher Learning Commission Institutional Accreditation: An Overview booklet. The HLC Steering Committee at SCU is currently writing the two-year institutional selfstudy to prepare for the 10-year accreditation visit in 2013. The two primary writers for the self-study are members of the Steering Committee: Brian Fogarty, Professor of Sociology, and Lynda Szymanski, Associate Dean of the School of Humanities, Arts, and Sciences as well as Associate Professor of Psychology. The self-study is designed to be a reflective process for the institution, said Silva. The universitys theme for the HLC self-study is From College to University: Eight Directions to Five Destinations in Ten Years and will outline the institutions evolution from the College of St. Catherine to St. Catherine University. The foundation for the self-study is the universitys 2020 Vision Strategic Planitself a document that outlines the college past and charts the course to the universitys future. The HLC will evaluate the university based on five criteria statements: Mission and Integrity - The institution fulfills its mission statement. Preparing for the Future - The institution uses as many educational and institutional resources to improve the overall wellbeing. Student Learning and Effective Teaching The institution demonstrates effective student learning and effective teaching methods. Acquisition, Discovery and Application of Knowledge - The institution promotes a life of learning for its faculty, staff, and students. Engagement and Service - Through its mission statement, the institution engages in public opinion and commits to improving delivery methods and services of education. On the SCU News Room website, the HLC Committee has engaged the community into what the goals and strategies of the accreditation will be as the site visit date gets closer. The HLC Committee has given presentations at the universitys opening faculty/staff workshops and at staff circles in October, also Student Affairs staff discussed accreditation with students during orientation and university President Andrea J. Lee, IHM, discussed HLC with members of the Student Senate this past November. The Steering Committee will also conduct focused discussions on re-accreditation beginning in spring 2012 all the way through the HLC site visit in February 2013. Information on the discussions, which will certainly include students, will be announced on the blog, at major public events, on the SCU website and via e-mail, Silva said. The HLC Committee will continue to update the SCU community on its progress in writing the self-study and will engage everyone in the preparations for the 2013 site visit. A blog has also been created for the HLC Steering Committee. Dean Silva encourages everyone to visit the blog often for updates on the HLC 2013 re-accreditation (http://stkatehlc.blogspot.com/). Caitlyn can be reached at cmwitt@stkate.edu.

The Wheel | 3

News in brief
Updates on headlines from around town and around the globe
By Alexa Chihos
How exercise can benefit the brain: Scientists in Ireland recently conducted a study that consisted of a group of inactive male college students taking a memory test after a strenuous exercise. The men were asked to watch a fast paced line-up of photos, with the names and faces of strangers, and were asked to recall the names after a short break. Half of the men then rode a stationary bicycle until they were exhausted, while the other half sat for 30 minutes. The men who had exercised performed significantly better on the memory test on their second try than the men who sat. The men who rode the stationary bike showed higher levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor proteins, which promote the health of nerve cells, than the men who sat. Judge rules Texas transgender marriage valid: Dallas County Judge Lori Chrisman Hockett refused to nullify the marriage of James Lee Scott and Rebecca Robertson after Robertson sought the nullification on the basis that Scott was born biologically female. Texas, a state that does not recognize same-sex marriage, recognized the legitimacy of a marriage between a transsexual man who married a biological woman. Judge Hockett ruled that their breakup should proceed as a divorce. translates spirit, so they are spending a great deal of energy to find a word that will be most suitable to translate spirit; energy that can be spent elsewhere. Why I say this is a concern for SCU is because Church officials are trying to revert the changes Vatican II put into place. Instead of moving forward and incorporating more inclusive terminology, they are moving sideways and even backwards into a limited dead language. What other changes from Vatican II will officials try and revert next? As a woman and person of faith, I fear they may try and reevaluate the Churchs views on women. In the next year or so, I challenge SCU to keep an eye on the Catholic Church; not only because we hold a great deal of power globally and nationally, but because we have power within our college community. As part of a school that teaches students to lead and influence, make sure that the changes you fight for move our world forward into a more diverse, inclusive and supportive global community. Becky can be reached at rjdoucette@stkate.edu.

And with you... your spirit?

By Becky Doucette
associate editor
Since I have been at St. Catherine University (SCU), I have not attended weekly Mass services. There will be times when I may need the community or feel a sense of urgency and attend; however, other matters in my life have ranked priority. Before I was a student at SCU, I went to Church every Sunday with my grandmother and I even sang in the choir. I enjoy the intimacy and ease that comes from the worship here, and I attend whenever I am back home in the Boston area. The reasoning for bringing my Catholic life into this piece is to explain to SCU the importance of the recent liturgy changes. The politics of the Catholic Church can be confusing and sometimes even tedious when school is overwhelming our lives. So I say this with urgency; please be aware of these changes because our university follows Catholic teaching. These changes affect our school and what it may look like in the future. Before the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) in the Catholic tradition, the weekly Mass services were held in Latin. This made sense for a short time, since Latin was a dominant language. Yet, as centuries came and went, the Church grew and Latin shrunk. As the Church entered into the 1950s, it was evident that the language of Latin was being taught to a small, elite group of people. Evidently, this led to a document that passed at Vatican

II that Masses can be held in the native language of the community. Now here I am, a part of a generation who has never seen the Church prior to Vatican II. My parents were born after Vatican II. My grandmother witnessed the changes in her teens; the majority of her life has taken place after this. So now, why is the Church making more changes and deciding to translate the Liturgy into native languages, word for word from the Latin? The translations used during my lifetime used phrases I understood, now they want to bring back the outdated phrases. One Bishop even stated they want the Mass to sound weird, so communities know that this is not a casual, but a sacred gathering. Another supporter argued that we are going back to this translation because we must be close to the language of the angels. Apparently the angels speak Latin. In Japan they are struggling with these changes. For example, with the sign of peace. During my lifetime, when the priest has spoken to the congregation, peace be with you, we have responded, and also with you. The changes now ask the congregation to respond with, and with your spirit. The Japanese language does not have a word that

Pro-Ramen

By Carolyn Pivec

4 | The Wheel

FEATURES

Decemb

Editorial staff picks gifts to brighten the holidays

Submitted by the Wheel Staff

Holiday Gift Guides

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Alexa Chihos (Editor-in-Chief):

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Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is the anticipated follow up to Bethesda Game Studios Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and is a landmark in single player role playing games (RPGs). Following the typical RPG style, players get to choose how they play the game, down to how their character looks and behaves in the kingdom of Skyrim.

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The Devil Wears Prada Dead Throne : Dead Throne is the Devil Wears Pradas fourth fulllength album and is by far the bands most technically driven album to date. Tracks like Mammoth and title track Dead Throne offer beautifully composed heavy metal while Kansas and Chicago slow down the fast paced album to show off the bands musical range. Dead Throne was released on Sept. 13 and is definitely something fans of recent Warped Tour bands needs in their music collection.

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August Burns Red Leveler Deluxe Edition: Released right before the beginning of Warped Tour 2011, August Burns Reds fourth studio album is far from a continuation of their 2009 release. Leveler incorporates different musical influences which are evident in Internal Cannon, 1/26/2011 and Salt & Light, and overall raises the bar for other bands in the genre. The growth and range of August Burns Red is evident on this album and the additional tracks on the deluxe edition are an added bonus to a solid album.

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Sarah Wente (Layout Designer):

Food: There always seems to be that one person on my list whos impossible to shop for, and I always have more success walking the aisles of a Target than I do perusing the mall. The nice thing about food is that its universal; everybody eats. Whether given as the main present or as a supplement to another gift, food will be of some use to the receiver. If chosen with care, food has the capacity to be a thoughtful and appropriate gift. It says to the receiver that you remember enough about them to know what kind of foods they like.

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Two Tickets to a Concert/Play/Sporting Event: Recently, a study stated that lived experiences with great people have led to happier lives than items that make one happy. This may not be a surprise, but this gift option is one way of incorporating this value into the holidays. So give the gift of an experience; team up with a friend or family member to pay for two tickets to an event they will most likely never forget.

Wheel file photo.

Anna Hayes (Copy Editor):

Gifts-in-a-jar: These festive holiday gifts are delightful to give and fun to make! Plus, the fact that you took the time to prepare these presents makes them even more meaningful. Gifts-in-a-jar are great for a variety of people, and there are hundreds of ideas available for jar contentscookie mixes, hot cocoa mixes, bath salts and even decorations are great options, to name a few! Check out www.tipjunkie. com/jar-homemade-gifts/ for more crafty and creative ideas.

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A Cookbook: Having grown up in a house where cookbooks have stains on them from consistent use and messy hands, I feel like they are a necessary part of the kitchen. Cookbooks are also a fairly universal gift; everyone can find something in them to make and enjoy. Nowadays, there are so many different cookbooks with so many different focuses. The biggest challenge will be figuring out what the cook on your holiday list really likes or wants to make.

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Tickets: Tickets are a versatile gift because you can purchase them for all kinds of things. Whether theyre for movies, the theater, the opera, concerts, a museum, a sports game, etc., tickets are great because theyre more than just a gift; theyre an experience.

Heather Kolnick (Photo Editor):

Twin Peaks: The Complete Series (The Definitive Gold Box Edition): I would give this to the most important people in my life. Twin Peaks is a really obscure science fiction-ish murder mystery television series from the early 90s. It had brought me so much joy that I want to give it to others to spread the love. The only downfall to this gift: the complete series only comes on VHS.

Digital picture frame: Make memories last forever with a changing photo frame. Instead of displaying only one photo, this device enables thousands of photographs to be viewed by cycling through a slideshow. Although this gift can be expensive, it is definitely worth the price.

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Fountain Pens: This gift is great if you have a friend or family member who handwrites often, and can easily fit within a $20 budget. Last Christmas I gave my girlfriend, who enjoys handwriting lists of all her tasks, a color pack of Pilot Varsity Pens with a Fine Point; she still enjoys them a year later.

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Anne Moe (Sections Editor):

Something you once destroyed: Whether its a vase you smashed when you were five or a book youve read so many times that the pages are falling apart, weve all broken something that doesnt belong to us. Gifting something similar shows the recipient that you care. My mothers copy of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn has been ripped to shreds over the years by me, and buying her a new copy will be both an apology and a thank you for her sharing her love of reading.

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An evening out: Sometimes being in one anothers presence is the greatest gift of all. For those special individuals, for whom purchasing gifts is especially difficult, simply give them a card with a note saying something similar to, This certificate is good for one free evening outall on me. Have the recipient choose where to go and what to do. Be sure to carry through with your plans, though.

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A puppy: I cant think of any reason not to give someone a puppy.

Becky Doucette (Associate Editor):

Recycled [Music] Record Bowl: When searching on the Etsy Website for holiday shopping ideas, I came across the Golly Pop Boutique. This shop within Etsy creates bowls using vinyl records from all genres. This gift is unique and will definitely bring nostalgia to the eyes of a vinyl music fan. As a handcrafted gift its surprisingly inexpensive, ranging from $8 to $12 per bowl.

A gift card to Wet Paint: This holiday season I would love to give the gift of art to a loved one. Wet Paint is one of the best places in the Twin Cities to get art supplies, and it is conveniently located on Grand Ave., not too far from St. Catherine University (SCU) My favorite pen is sold there: Le Pen by Marvy. Im so serious.

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A photo album: Throughout our lives, we grow distant from people who are important to us. Pictures of the past are a great reminder that we continue to care even though times have changed. One of my cousins is getting married in May, and embarrassing pictures of us as children will help her remember her roots.

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Something highlighting one of your skills: Everyone has hidden talents, and gifts that reflect them are better than anything purchased in a store. Im very good at crocheting, and one of my best friends from high school is getting crocheting lessons for Christmas. Hours of fun over J-term, here we come.

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ber 12, 2011

FEATURES

The Wheel | 5

Bridge the gap

Dana Al-Emam

CU campus associates hone in on uman trafficking

Events in the Twin Cities: January

Compiled by Becky Doucette

ff writer

Stage
Ragtime, The Musical: Originally a book, Park Square Theatre presents a collision of neighbors at the beginning of the American Century. The show will be in production from Jan. 20 to Feb. 19, at 2 p.m. on Sundays and 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday through Saturdays. Prices vary depending on seating and date. For more information on Ragtime, visit www.parksquaretheatre.org/ under the box office tab. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof: The Guthrie Theater presents this Pulitzer Prize winning classic on their Wurtele Thurst stage this winter. This show will be in production from Jan. 14 to Feb. 26, at 7p.m. on Sundays and 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Prices vary depending on seating and date. For more information on Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, visit www.guthrietheater.org/ under the Plays and Events tab. Independence: This play, written by Minnesotan playwright Lee Blessing, will mix comedy and tragedy on the Theater in the Round stage on Jan. 6 to Jan. 29, at 2 p.m. on Sundays and 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The play is $22 per ticket; however, students can receive a discounted price of $10 on Fridays and Sundays. For more information on Independence, visit www. theatreintheround.org/, and search under the On Stage tab.

Music
Jacks Mannequin: An alternative band that just released its new albumPeople and Things will be performing at First Ave in the Mainroom on Saturday, Jan. 21. To open the show at 6 p.m., Allen Stone and Jukebox The Ghost will also be performing. This show will be 18+ and is $25.50 for a ticket, which can be bought either in advance or at the door of the event. For more information on this event, visit first-avenue.com/, and look in the Calendar tab for the Mainroom. Brad Paisley with The Band Perry and Scotty McCreery: This country and folk mix will perform live at the Xcel Energy Center on Saturday, Jan. 14 at 7:30 p.m. The ticket prices will vary on the seating choice. For more information on this event, visit www. ticketmaster.com/Brad-Paisley-tickets/ artist/714837?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name.

atholic Relief Services (CRS) has campus associates king in universities and colleges in order to engage dents in learning more about the global issues and finding solutions for similar problems within their eties. This year, St. Catherine University (SCU) now campus associates who form a bridge between CRS the SCU community. RS is a global organization that works in emergency ef and development to get fundamental necessities ured, such as health care and education in more than countries in the world. here are several concerns and working groups within S that work on hunger, education, health, peace, sting at homes and helping in emergencies. They also rk in storm relief, womens issues, poverty, human elopment and justice. First-year SCU student Jenny nohue, one of the CRS campus associates at SCU, ed the importance of this work. There are two types of justice: the first one is helping h the crisis and the second is maintaining a healthy style, Donohue said. During their weekly meetings, campus associates discuss most prominent issues that they want to tackle with U students who support their cause. They have figured that human trafficking is one of the most important cs to talk about, basically because its a topic that people ally ignore even though it involves so many victims. We chose human trafficking to be our concern; we are king on educating the people around us about human ficking this year, but hopefully next year we will have a plan related to the policies which we found they need be focused more on human trafficking, sophomore S campus associate Luke Bryant said. Human trafficking is recruitment or transportation people under threat or by deception to be placed into ced labor, slavery or sexual exploitation. This growing ustry is worth $10 billion. What is important is that Minnesota is one of the 13 states with highest cases of human trafficking, nohue said. ccording to the research that the campus associates ducted along with the aid of other fellow students, of the largest centers for human trafficking is The ll of America, which is only a short drive from the U St. Paul campus. There is no policy to avoid human trafficking there, the parental guarding is only available at the weekends d]the fact that The Mall of America is always a busy ce makes human trafficking easier, Bryant said. raffickers have different ways of approaching their ims and convincing them to work for them. One way of how human trafficking happens is when se who are looking for victims to be trafficked scout und with professional clothes at the mall and search for ple, mainly women, who look tired and stressed and k a support system, they trick them by offering them at jobs which are fake such as modeling. Donohue . They tell their victims that they have a photo session nother state and the victims get trapped that way. On Dec., 6 the SCU Campus Ministry CRS team held nformative session about human trafficking. They yed a short movie narrated by a woman who was sex ficked, then Joy Friedman from the Breaking Free anization made an informative and crucial presentation ut sex trafficking and prostitution. n her presentation, Friedman proved some myths arding sex trafficking wrong. There is no difference between sex trafficking and stitution since in both of them women are forced to t out of necessity Friedman said. riedman assured that women get trapped in sex ficking because of their lack of information about ere theyre going and what jobs they are supposed to n order to get the money they were promised. The industry of sex trafficking is huge, its taking the ond place in black market with guns dealing after drugs ch is taking the first place right now, Friedman said. t its expected to become the first because products hich are humans in this case) could be sold over and r again. Friedman added. Students can help by having a better understanding of issue, and by spreading the word so we can confront issue instead of running away from it, SCU Campus nistry Spirituality and Reatreats and Coordinator Kelly jka said. We should also work all together to make a nge, since we know that so many students in SCU are rested in the topic of human trafficking and we want et connected to combine our efforts.

Sit down, rock out

By Ashley Skwiera
staff writer
As the audience nearly doubled from when Joey Ryan and the Inks started to perform to their finish, so did their energy. A local indie surf-rock five-man band from Minneapolis, Joey Ryan and the Inks brought back the Beach Boys era vibe to The Pulse in the Coeur de Catherine on Dec. 7. The smooth vocals of singer Joey Ryan paired with the rhythmic beats of drummer Ryan Mach and led the crowd on a flashback to the 60s with a mixture of sound from surfer tunes, to British pop and even to the folk of Bob Dylan. Ryans cover of Bob Dylans Girl of the North Country expressed the lighter side of the group; or really Ryan, as he was the only one who took part. However, the other members did not take this time as a break. Even though they were silent with their instruments, there were many occasions in which the remaining band members mouthed along the words, getting into and feeling the song as if they were the ones performing it. With The Pulse being one of the more laid back places to perform, the band went with the flow and decided on the fly which songs to play when. Ryan showed this multiple times when he first made the executive decision to play Bob Dylan and another occasion when he had explained to the crowd they had only practiced a mellower version of the original song a few times the night before. Mach extended the casual feel of the evening by stating, in reference to the newly practiced song, I dont even know how to start this. I surely could not tell they had practiced it very little, but then at the same time I was taken back with trying to figure out how Mach was able to play a plethora of other rhythm instruments, such as a maraca and jingle bells, while keeping the drums at their own rhythm and tempo. Following along with the theme of rhythm, while playing the five men had a distinct way of showing they were totally into the

Indie surf-rock band takes down The Pulse

songs. From the toe tapping of Ryan to the full body head swing of keyboardist Tim Dickson, each member had his own way of keeping time while enjoying what he was doing. I could see even the Bassist Matt Mitchell, who hid behind his brother Chris Mitchell on electric guitar, bend his knees and move up and down with the rhythm; not missing a beat. After the show, I was able to talk with Ryan about the performance along with some other things. This was not, however, before a group of five or so girls could request a Christmas card-like photo be taken. After everyone posed in The Pulse, a request was made to take one in the next room with the Christmas tree as well. The band was totally cool about meeting fans and went along with it. While talking with Ryan, I found out that this performance was not their usual coffee shop-setting. He mentioned that they are used to playing a more loud rock type of a show in a slightly larger space. I would not have ever guessed that with how well their set went, especially their last song, The Part Taken. Ryan mentioned that this was his favorite song to play, and I could tell. Not only did the crescendo provide a driving energy but the energy of the band members themselves made it exciting and fun to watch. Even thoug h the audience started off small, Joey Ryan and the Inks provided us with radiant energy and a rhythm that would make any foot tap.

Ashley can be reached at amskwiera @stkate.edu.

Dana can be reached at dwalemam@stkate.edu.

Joey Ryan and the Inks perform in The Pulse. For more information and upcoming shows, visit the bands website: www.joeyryanandtheinks.com Photos by Sarah Kiczula.

6 | The Wheel

FEATURES

December 12, 2011

Posts from the equator: Choose your own adventure

By Rachel Armstrong
international columnist
This is it: Ive got less than two weeks left in this country, a 20-page paper to write, and two presentations in Spanish. This is the part where the St. Catherine University (SCU) community collectively rolls its eyes at me and does the ever-familiar finals one-up. Really, Rachel? Youve got one twenty page paper to write? Thats funny, because I have two papers and two cumulative final exams and a presentation about cellular structures. Oh, and theyve taken away study Monday. I get it. You`re busy. But bear with me for another 500 words, and power through another week and then you can eat your own weight in holiday goodies while watching Love Actually. At least that`s what I plan to do. Im not going to lie: Im excited to go home. Sometimes I worry that Ive done study abroad wrong somehow, because sometimes I cant sleep at night thinking about the particular look on my parents faces when I meet them in the airport. I cant wait to bake cookies with my little brother, see my best friend, sit through inane marathons of Americas Next Top Model and be swarmed by my cousins when I step into my grandparents house. Quito is too busy for me. I`m ready for sleepy Minnesota cities, everyone wrapped up warm for the winter. But then, every once and a while, in all my griping about getting yelled at on the street, about the buses and the traffic and the near constant feeling of insecurity, Ecuador surprises me. Last week, I traveled to Las Cascadas San Rafael, the largest waterfalls in the country. Id had a bad week; Quito had gotten the best of me, and I remember standing on a cliff looking over these falls thinking, along with some expletives, This is amazing. I ventured to Parque Carolina for a concert. This week is the Festivals of Quito, which means, in addition to all the teenagers out drinking beer on the sidewalks, there are concerts, shows and about every kind of street performance you could ask for. I stood in the crowd, bass pounding heavily in my chest and thought, again, This is amazing. Theres a piece of advice from a friend back in Minnesota that I turn to a lot here. I know youre worried about the language and the internship and the family and the altitude sickness but you should know that even if all of those things go just as badly as youre afraid they might, youre still somewhere youve never been before with people youve never met before. While Ive gotten over the altitude sickness, Im still worried about the language barrier. Im scared my default in words has led to a default in relationships with my host family, with my Ecuadorian friends and my coworkers at El Churo. But, as my Yoda-esque friend says, Im still somewhere brand new. So, in my last two weeks in Quito, Im going to try to resist the urge to bury myself in my final project and give the proverbial finger to this all-too-busy city. There are still a few adventures to be had. Rachel can be reached at rmarmstrong@ stkate.edu or follow her blog at r a c h e l g o e s t o e c u a d o r. t u m b l r. c o m

Charity Ball
By Anne Moe
sections editor
Year after year, St. Catherine University (SCU) students and their guests flock to the Rauenhorst Ballroom for an evening of fun before finals begin. Its called Charity Ball for a reason, but people seem to forget the purpose of the event. The fun of dressing up and getting together with friends can take away from the intended purpose of Charity Ball. Charity Ball is an SCU institution that needs to be re-evaluated. Like every event the St. Kates Activities Team (SKAT) puts on, Charity Ball is funded with the use of the 140 dollar activity fee each SCU student pays once a year. Last year, approximately three-thousand dollars were spent on all of the accoutrements needed to make Charity Ball happen. Simultaneously, approximately four-thousand dollars were donated to Sarahs... an Oasis for women, an organization affiliated with the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet which provides a home and support for women who are in times of transition. The money raised goes towards the approximately 30 women who live in the house who are developing skills that will eventually be used in independent life, and it is used for every day necessities. Although four thousand dollars is a large sum of money, it is less than a dollar per SCU student. We have the capacity to donate much more money than we do. Had Charity Ball not happened and the money spent on catering and entertainment had been donated as opposed, nearly twice as much money would have been donated to a worthwhile cause. The women living at Sarahs have material needs, just like the rest of us. Sure, we are in college and most of us are not bathing in bathtubs full of money, but a better use of our Student Activity Fee could result in a larger donation. Giving to charity is not about rewards like dance parties; its about doing the right thing, and to me, that seems like a good use of money. This is also a good time to think about how SKAT uses the money it is allotted. The three thousand dollars spent on Charity Ball only benefited 225 people, meaning that there was an excess of food and various other things. Where else is SKAT using more money than it needs to? SKATs purpose is to entertain the SCU student population, but if that isnt happening, is SKAT even necessary? All of this makes me think; do we really need incentives like photo booths and cakepops to donate money to a good cause? As a community, have we lost the value of helping those less fortunate than ourselves with no reward? I sincerely hope we have not. Although it is a seemingly necessary reward at the end of a semester filled with hard work, Charity Ball needs to be restructured to be more effective for our community. Anne can be reached at admoe@stkate.edu.

Album review: Jacks Mannequin

By Alexa Chihos
editor-in-chief
http://www.americansongwriter.com/2011/10/jack%E2%80%99s-mannequin-people-and-things/

Album:

People and Things

Rating:

out of five
1- My Racing Thoughts 2- Release Me 3- Television 4- Amy, I 5- Hey Hey Hey (Were All gonna die) 6- People, Running 7- Amelia Jean 8- Platform Fire 9- Hostage 10- Restless Dream 11- Casting Lines

Tracklist:

Release Date:

October 4
Website:

jacksmannequin.com

Jacks Mannequins third full-length album People and Things shows off front man Andrew McMahons prowess for composing beautiful piano-pop infusions. Everything in Transit, the bands first release showcased a bright, summer pop ambiance, while their second album, The Glass Passenger, featured a more intimate and intricate perspective into McMahons experience with cancer. People and Things is a combination of the bands first two releases; there is a mature musical twist on this album that shines through its duration and past its predecessors. It also concludes a s t o r y a rc t h a t depicts McMahons experiences with heartbreak, cancer, and the beginning of marriage. A few tracks on People and Things are reminiscent of the musical styles of classic singers/ songwriters. This is an album that absolutely thrives on tempo, and tracks like Amelia Jean, Release Me and lead track My Racing Thoughts show off McMahons remarkable piano technique. What makes this album an overall success is the harmony between the composition of

the music and the lyrics. Throughout the album, the lyrics are able to match the musical tone, thus offering the listener a flawless musical experience. While People and Things is an overall success for Jacks Mannequin, one song stands out over the others. Relentless Dream highlights McMahons versatility, as this track opens with a charming guitar melody and brings in the sincerity of his voice. In this song McMahon sings with a hint of lament I wonder how youve been and where you are/A letter to the one who slipped away/A letter to the things that never start/Oh my imagination running wild/Guess Ive missed

you from the day that we first met. The lyrics and the musical composition of this song make it an instant success from the trace country influenced guitar to the honesty in the vocals. Overall, People and Things is a commendable addition to Jacks Mannequins repertoire and offers some of McMahons best work in his career. Right behind his other band, Something Corporate, McMahon, with Jacks Mannequins triumphant third album, has something to brag about. Alexa can be reached at anchihos@stkate.edu.

December 12, 2011

HEALTH

The Wheel | 7

Kick the fix

By Caitlyn Witt
fitness columnist
As college students, energy is crucial to stay awake on long nights to finish writing that last paper or getting in those last few hours of studying for a big test. I like coffee because it tastes delicious and it keeps me awake.I drink about ten cups of coffee a week. I dont really drink a lot of different types of caffeine other than coffee and sometimes an energy drink, sophomomre nursing major Thuthao Dinh said. Coffee, energy drinks and soft drinks containing caffeine are readily available in the Dining Hall and the Marketplace for students to enjoy. Despite the benefit of being able to stay awake, boost energy and being labeled safe by the FDA, caffeinated drinks have many negative effects. The Bastyr Center for Natural Health (BCNH) has report of studies that show caffeine raises cortisol levels, which results in constriction of blood vessels and causes high blood pressure. It also reports that coffee stimulates more frequent urination and subsequent loss of various vitamins and minerals such as B, C, calcium, iron and zinc, as well as inhibits absorption of folate, vitamin B12, potassium, iron and magnesium. Since caffeine is a stimulant, small amounts of caffeine taken daily can create physical dependence, or addiction, to caffeine. Caffeine disrupts sleep cycles, causing less deep sleep which often results in the consumption of more caffeine in the morning. The cycle of caffeine is never-ending. There are alternative ways to obtain caffeine and energy that promote good health and give the same energy-boosting and awakening effects that coffee and other

Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. A balance of protein, fruit, and carbohydrates will ensure a day full of energy. Photo couresty of http://office. microsoft.com/en-us/images/results.aspx?ex=2&qu=breakfast. artificially caffeinated beverages have. Natural health expert Andrew Weil, M.D., provided Livestrong.com with several recommendation for natural alternatives for caffeine such as Siberian and American ginseng, green tea, and ginkgo biloba. Siberian and American ginseng are shown to be a natural energy-boosting plant that improves concentration, increases immune function and also helps in fighting stress and exhaustion. Siberian ginseng is available in dried root, tea, capsule and extract form. American ginseng is derived from an entirely different plant and varies in chemical make-up and active ingredients. It also supports heart health and supports cognitive function in those who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). American ginseng is available in extract, powder, tablet, and capsule form. Green tea is a lower-caffeine alternative to coffee. Green tea, whether caffeinated or not, may provide uplifting sensations, similar to caffeine. Some people describe green tea as a calmer form of energy, in contrast to the rush that may derive from caffeinated coffee and energy drinks, Weil said. Green tea has been proven to increase metabolism and promote weight loss. It is available in leaf, tea, tablet and capsule form. Ginkgo biloba is a Chinese herbal extract that is used to treat various ailments such as fatigue and bronchitis and is also used as a substitute for caffeine. Gingko increases blood flow to the brain and extremities causing one to feel more awake and energized just as the caffeine in coffee would. Ginkgo is available educational resources. Unfortunately women from [lower classes] in America are not educated. Not only that, but the men are not educated either or they think they [are] invincible to STDs so they dont take precautions. I think its a combination of uneducated women in lower classes and the arrogance of the men they are with, SCU sophomore student Theresa Pueringer said. Economically, sexual partners may not have the finances or the courage to buy protection such as male or female condoms. Despite varying factors, STDs often go untreated in women as well because they are asymptomatic, meaning they do not experience any symptoms of the disease. The Health & Wellness Center at SCU provides STD screening and treatment for students. There may be a medication copay but chlamydia and gonorrhea are treatable with antibiotics, although there are more than just these two STDs that can be treated, and the student health insurance covers for treatment, Harmon-Mueller said. The Family Tree Clinic located on Dayton Avenue in St. Paul also provides services for STD screening and treatment. Along with education, preventative measures are key. Obviously, the best way to avoid getting a sexually transmitted disease is to not have in capsule and tea form. BestUniversities.com (BU.com) provided five alternative forms of energy-boosting activities and methods. Eating fruits that have high levels of fructose increases wakefulness, according to the BU.com article. Such fruits are great natural forms of energy and full of vitamins. The most energizing fruits are apples, grapes, peaches and citrus fruits. The high levels of vitamin C in the citrus fruits also work as energy boosters. BU.com recommends going for a jog or a swim in the morning before beginning the day. Exercising for 15 to 20 minutes each morning is not only a healthy routine for aerobic exercise, but it also wakes you up and stimulates your brain and muscles to get your day moving. Despite the clichs, getting a good nights sleep and eating breakfast are truly two of the best ways to boost your energy and be ready for the day ahead. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages when you know you have to wake up early in the morning, even though alcohol can make you drowsy. The sleep gained from drinking too much is often less restful than normal sleep BU.com said. Eating a well-rounded breakfast, which is truly the most important meal of the day, with fresh fruit, protein and and carbohydrates will help you wake up and keep you fueled throughout the day. Caitlyn can be reached at cmwitt@stkate.edu.

An immature ginkgo biloba plant. This natural supplement is a healthy alternative to caffeine. Photo by Kurt Stber.

A contagious spike
New studies indicate a rise in STD infections
By Caitlyn Witt with reporting by Anne Floyd
When asked about using condoms, nearly half the students in a 24-person English course wrote, better safe than sorry to whether or not they would want to use a condom during sexual intercourse. On Nov. 17, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) published its most recent studies about the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), specifically chlamydia and gonorrhea. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the two most common diseases reported to the CDC since 1994. A 5.8 percent increase in chlamydia cases and 2.8 percent increase in gonorrhea cases have been observed since then. The recently released CDC studies are compelling because the reported increase in STDs has occurred in women, ages 15 through 24, around the same age range that many St. Catherine University (SCU) students are today. Women are more susceptible to STDs for biological, social and economic reasons. Biologically, a womans sex organs are more exposed during sexual intercourse because the vaginal surface is larger and more vulnerable to sexual secretions than the primarily skincovered penis, according to an FHI 360 Sexually Transmitted Disease article. Society has often placed an increasingly casual outlook on sex in which more people engage in casual sex without knowing the sexual history of their partners. This has put women in a position where they may feel they do not have responsibility over their sexual activities. Women are more susceptible [to STDs] because they may feel they do not have power in the relationship.This lack of perceived power leads women to take unsafe risks such as having intercourse without condoms, SCU registered nurse practitioner Jeanine Harmon-Mueller said. Education also played a key role in the surveyed students; sex education may not readily available for students and young people due to lack of both economic and

intercourse. 100 percent condom use is the best alternative, Harmon-Mueller said. As a Catholic university, birth control methods are not viewed in the best light, but some students are divided on whether or not protection should be provided nonetheless. I think that the school should provide protection. Even though sex before marriage is against the Catholic Churchs teachings, not everyone who goes to [SCU] abides by those rules, a SCU sophomore nursing student said. Simply because the Catholic Church disagrees with individuals choices does not mean they should not provide protection. I think that as a Catholic university, [SCU] is not responsible for providing condoms for it is against Catholic beliefs. However, they could do more to point students in the direction of [where to obtain protection] if needed, SCU sophomore student Heather Abbottm said. Being properly educated and informed about sexual intercourse, STDs and a sexual partners history are important parts of being safe and responsible if choosing to engage in sexual activity. Caitlyn can be reached at cmwitt@stkate.edu.

8 | The Wheel

SPORTS

December 12, 2011

Laps to unite
By Kailey Richter
staff writer

Wildcats succeed shorthanded

Swimmer Ashley Kramka. Photo by Bryan Tolcser (BryanTolcserPhotography.com). Used with permission.

Resulting in momentous success for the team, the St. Catherine University (SCU) Swimming and Diving team recently participated in a Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) meet. By representing the SCU community in such a positive way, the team proves that our athletic teams are off to a great start this season - due to their teamwork. At the MIAC meet previously mentioned, four of the teams top swimmers were out of commission and could not compete that day. While most spectators would not have expected SCU to place second overall in the meet, this is exactly what they did. Swimmer Kathleen VanDeVoorde especially stepped up that evening, winning the 200 Individual Medly and placing second in the 200 backstroke. It was an important meet, as many of us are trying to decide what we will be swimming for at [the] conference at the end of the season, VanDeVoorde said. I had been working hard so I was happy with what I accomplished and my team was excited to support me. VanDeVoorde also spoke about the support of her fellow teammates, without whom, she felt that she could not have succeeded in the way she did.

We cheered for and supported each other throughout the races; we wished each other luck and congratulated one another when someone had a good race, VanDeVoorde said. Head Coach Shana Erickson was impressed with the way the team worked together, especially due to their strong competition. Between the two days of our competition, we were short four of our athletes so we just wanted those who were competing to push through their races, Erickson said. Assistant Coach Nicole Hempler was not expecting such a positive outcome. The MIAC meet was an important one; and with four of the teams top swimmers unable to compete, no one really knew what the outcome was going to be. Everyone swam better than expected, Hempler said. They really stepped up to fill the spots missing by some athletes who couldnt be at the meet. Being able to hold onto second place showed how hard the team worked to fill in our gaps and remain strong. With the teams extensive training schedule, practice is now close to every night. They are currently working on extending their swim lengths. The amount and type of yardage has changed a bit for our swimmers, Erickson said.

While this is most likely tough on the members of the team, it is good practice for their conference meet in February. The team is preparing for many other events outside of the MIAC as well. Were focusing on getting in yards and preparing for our week long training trip to the Bahamas following Christmas Break, January 2, 2012 -7:30 p.m. Basketball vs. Saint Marys University at the Butler Center January 4, 2012 -7:30 p.m. Basketball vs. University of St. Thomas at the Butler Center January 6, 2012 -7:00 p.m. Hockey vs. UW-Concordia at the Ozaukee Ice Center January 7, 2012 -Dance performance at the Mall of America UDA Spirit Competition -2:00 p.m. Hockey vs. St. Norbert College at the Resch Olympic Pavilion -3:00 p.m. Basketball vs. Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN January 11, 2012 -7:30 p.m. Basketball vs. Macalester College at the Butler Center -7:30 p.m. Dance performance at the Butler Center January 13, 2012 -6:00 p.m. Swimming and Diving St. Thomas Dual in St. Paul, MN January 14, 2012 -2:00 p.m. Hockey vs. Hamline University at the Ridder Arena -3:00 p.m. Basketball vs. Carleton Colege in Northfield, MN January 16, 2012 -Basketball vs. St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN

Hempler said. During the trip the swimmers will swim 2-2 practices each day along with dryland training. It will be nice to be somewhere warmer than Minnesota, but it definitely wont be a day at the beach. Kailey can be reached at krichter@stkate.edu. January 18, 2012 -Basketball vs. Bethel University in St. Paul, MN January 20, 2012 -9:00 am / 7:00 p.m. Swimming and Diving Grinnell Invite in Grinnell, IA -7:45 p.m. Hockey vs. Gustavus Adolphus College at the Burnsville Ice Center January 21, 2012 -9:00 a.m. / 5:30 p.m. Swimming and Diving Grinnell Invite in Grinnell, IA -2:00 p.m. Hockey vs. Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN -3:00 p.m. Basketball vs. Augsburg College in the Butler Center January 25, 2012 -7:30 p.m. Basketball vs. Concordia College in Moorhead, MN January 27, 2012 -6:00 p.m. Swimming and Diving Macalester / Augsburg Double Dual in St. Paul, MN -7:00 p.m. Hockey vs. Bethel University at the Schwans Super Rink #5 January 28, 2011 -8:30 a.m. / 1:00 p.m. Swimming and Diving St. Kates Invite at the Butler Center -2:00 p.m. Hockey vs. Bethel University at the Ridder Arena -3:00 p.m. Basketball vs. Hamline University at the Butler Center -3:00 p.m. Dance performance at the Butler Center

Upcoming SCU sporting events

The Wheel file photo.