N e w Ye a r , N e w B e g i n n i n g s , 7

February 3, 2010 N O RT H C E N T R A L U N I V E R S I T Y MINNEAPOLIS, MN

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Student Leadership, 4
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Banquet for the Broken, 2

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 News
North Central students enjoy dinner at the “Banquet For The Broken,” hosted by Delta Kappa and Release
Banquet For The Broken
By Rebekah Jacobson
On Friday, January 28, Delta Kappa and Release hosted
“Banquet For The Broken” at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral
in Minneapolis. The event was created to raise awareness
for human trafficking, and especially its effects in the
Twin Cities. All the proceeds were given to Breaking Free,
a non-profit organization in Minneapolis serving women
and girls involved in systems of abuse, exploitation, and
sex-trafficking.
“By doing this event, we wanted to empower women
at North Central to go out into the community and be
advocates for other women,” said junior urban studies and
development major and Director of Delta Kappa Andrea
Arts.
The doors opened at 5:30pm, with jazz music echoing
through the air as the J3 Trio performed. The ladies wore
elegant dresses, while the men sported jackets and ties.
At every table, a white tablecloth was spread with a rose
and folded piece of paper at its center. On each paper, a
name was written in fancy black letters.
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“Each table represents a women who was sold into
sex-trafficking and tells her story,” said senior psychology
major and Director of Release Kimberly Hassebrook.
As the night continued, dinner was served buffet-style
and servers circled the aisles offering beverage re-fills and
dessert. At 7:00pm, Joy Friedman, the women’s program
director at Breaking Free, took the stage.
Friedman began by sharing her story with the audience.
She told about the horrors of her adolescent years as a
victim of sex-trafficking in Minneapolis.
“I’ve been beaten with objects, had gasoline poured on
me and slammed on with a 2x4,” said Friedman. “I’ve been
surrounded by 15 men at a time, all waiting to use me for
sex.”
The pain and tragedy of her story touched the members
of the audience, and she went on to reveal facts about sex-
trafficking in today’s age.
Currently, human trafficking is the fastest growing black
market crime on the planet. The average age of entry into
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MARY BETH OAKS
prostitution in the United States is 12 to 14-years old.
“All it takes is once,” said Friedman.
Breaking Free, the only program in the country that
provides permanent housing for sexually abused women,
is an organization located in St. Paul. They are “sisters
helping sisters break free.”
“Breaking Free is a family,” said Friedman. “When you
walk in those doors you know you’re welcome, no matter
what you look like or what you’ve been through. We
help show these girls they can move on from this [sexual
abuse].”
After Friedman’s presentation, Hassebrook gave a short
speech. She explained her vision for the community to get
involved with the prevention of human trafficking.
“Let’s decide to be a Christian community that honors
women and men, and says that there’s more to life,” said
Hassebrook.
The night ended in special music and an opportunity to
donate money to Breaking Free.

Sex trafficking in the cities
By JACOB VON ARX
Being a numbers man, having kept stats for both high school and college
baseball teams, I know how stats can either tell too much information
or cover up a blemish. I can create a statistic that can make a player look
good, bad, in a slump, or that they should be cut from the team.
KSTP reported that Minnesota is one of the top ten states for sex
trafficking. This small stat tells a big story. America has grown more
aware of the lurking monster of sex slavery, but it has also grown more
prevalent. Junior Youth Ministries major Josh Rouser said, “It’s a huge
problem. Minneapolis and Chicago are two of the biggest hubs for sex
trafficking in the country, and the Mall of America is the largest spot for
‘recruiting’ new girls.”
The US State Department estimates between 14,500-17,500 girls are
brought into the country annually. Although there are numbers out
there, there is not one true, tell all stat. Doug Amundson, a Junior Youth
Development major, called the state of sex slavery in Minnesota an
“epidemic,” but considered the overall awareness of the problem to be
growing.
Derek Brunmeier said, “raising awareness is the first step, helping those
Student government
that have been prostituted and trafficked is the second, and taking action By FAITH HARSHBARGER • news editor
to do something about it is the third.” Brunmeier, a sophomore Pastoral Current student body president Ian
Studies major, is a member of Release, a chapter of the Student Ministries Stachowicz and current student body vice
Board, which focuses on human trafficking. president Katrina Schiferl agree that their
office experience so far has been very
There is always going to be something that needs to be cleaned up. rewarding. Stachowicz, a senior youth
Although human trafficking is against the law, there are thousands being development major, relates how essential
captured by predators waiting for a girl with insecurities to prey upon. student government is at North Central.
There are not enough words in my vocabulary to describe exactly how “Student government is important
wrong human trafficking is, and as I’ve interviewed students from around because it serves as the intersection
the campus, I can tell the feeling is mutual with many. between the student body, the staff, and
administration.” He mentioned also that
student government connects people who
seek change with those who possess the
power to change.
Schiferl, an ASL/English interpreting major,
said that student government offices are
respected among those in highest authority
at our school and as such are “vehicles for
real change.”
North Central’s student government is
comprised of the student body president,
vice president, executive committee
and senate. The executive committee is
chosen by the president and assists with
the implementation of his/her vision and
platform. The senate, as overseen by the vice
president, works to make changes in each
living area represented within the senate.
Schiferl said the senate has been working
on several needs and issues brought up
for this school year. From continuing to
strengthen the recycling program to working
on the open dorms policy, the senators are
trying to meet the needs of the North Central
community.
However, they are unable to do adequate
work unless the student body is aware of
their senators and utilizes them as a resource.
Schiferl related how students’ lack of
MARY BETH OAKS
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News
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knowledge about student government and
its purpose is one of the biggest challenges
the elected officials face. For this reason, she
and Stachowicz are working to open the lines
of communication between them and the
entire student body.
One way for students to become informed
is to attend a forum hosted by the senate on
Feb. 22. The forum, which will be held during
the lunch hour in the cafeteria’s Aquarium,
will be an opportunity for the senate to
answer students’ questions about various
issues on campus.
Furthermore, the upcoming student body
president/vice president election is on Feb.
15. There will be a forum held on Feb. 3 as an
opportunity for the candidates to share their
vision and answer students’ questions. This
will be located in CLC 202 during the lunch
hour. Students are strongly encouraged to
attend and become informed.
Stachowicz shares what he feels are the
most important qualities to look for in the
future president and vice president.
“It is my hope that the student body will
vote for next year’s student body president
and vice president not by who is popular, but
by a careful examination of their candidate’s
heart, leadership style, and love for North
Central University.”
In addition to this, senators are needed
for the 2011-2012 school year. Stachowicz
encouraged anyone who is interested in
becoming involved with student government
for the purpose of making a difference at
North Central to do so.
Those interested in becoming a senator
to represent their living area may pick up a
petition form in the student life office.
 News
Applications can be picked
up Student Life and are due
Feb. 25
KELSEY BJORKMAN
MARY BETH OAKS
Top Left: North Central Prayer Team; Bottom
Left: International Student Fellowship; Top
Right: Society for Bible and Theology; Center
Right: Praise Gathering; Bottom Right:
Leadership Council of Captains
Student leadership
By STEPHEN KRIST
Leadership: it’s something you do long before it becomes something
you’re good at. This is why North Central has given students the
opportunity to grow their leadership skills by being student leaders.
Here at North Central, there are many student run organizations
aimed at giving students ownership of their school as well as
experience in the field of their calling. However, as important as
every organization is to the student body, some tend to fly under the
radar. Here are some organizations that you may want to be involved
with in the coming semester if you haven’t already chimed in.
The Society for Bible and Theology is comprised of a group of
students focused on tackling the critical issues of our times with
the knowledge of God’s word. They meet twice a month on
Thursdays to discuss theology in association with our world and,
most importantly, to ask questions. According to Alex Ehrich, Senior
Biblical Languages major and leader of this organization, “This is the
time when we get to ask life’s biggest questions, and this is what we
do.”
The North Central Prayer Team does just what the name suggests.
This is a group of individuals dedicated to saturating our campus in
MARY BETH OAKS
prayer. Morning watch is one aspect of the Prayer Team, consisting
of prayer in the Sanctuary from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM every day that
classes are held. Aside from the daily rigors of attending to prayer
requests and broad campus needs, the Prayer Team also organizes
Outcry, a monthly Thursday prayer meeting.
Praise Gathering (or PG as many call it) has become somewhat of a
staple in the spiritual growth of not only North Central but several
other churches, schools, and organizations throughout the Twin
Cities. “Praise Gathering is a night of seeking the Lord through
worship and intercession,” says Chelsea Hackbarth, Senior ICS major
and leader of the Praise Gathering team. “It is a time of expressing
yourself in whatever way you feel God is calling you to.” Praise
Gathering is on Wednesday nights from 10:00 PM—12:00 AM in the
Word and Worship Center.
International Student Fellowship or “Friendship”, as Community
Life Coordinator Peter Hansen calls it, is an opportunity for North
Central students to build friendships with International Students
at the University of Minnesota. It exists to connect students with
our friends at the University of Minnesota and have the privilege
of learning about the world’s culture right in their very own
backyard. They share in fellowship with international students
MARY BETH OAKS
through enjoying fun events with cuisines spanning the globe. They
encourage anyone interested to simply arrive and be ready to have
fun.
The Leadership Council of Captains is a part of the Student Athletic
Advisory Committee for NCAA Division III. It contains all the
captains for each North Central varsity sport. According to Junior
Psychology major and Women’s Soccer Captain, Bethany Burkman,
“This organization allows each captain to be a part of leadership
outside of, and in addition to, their team and season.” They meet
once a month to discuss NCAA legislation changes and vote on new
policies.
Dean of Community Life Jolene Cassellius is incredibly enthusiastic
about the student leadership opportunities at North Central. “The
training and experience I received as a student leader myself [has]
significantly impacted who I am and how I lead today,” she said.
“That is why I am so passionate about the program.” Application
submission dates for the 2011-2012 school year begin on January MARY BETH OAKS
21st. Students interested in applying for positions should talk to
current student leaders or stop in Student Life for an application.
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 Lifestyle
Read more news stories online
by logging on to
www.NCUnortherner.com.

Temperatures drop below zero

By KAYLA GRELL • lifestyle editor
Temperatures drop below zero, snow emergencies are in place, and a couple feet of
snow covers the ground, stuck inside Andy Manley, Junior youth ministry major and his
fellow roommates sit playing video game NBA 2K11. Currently, Manley resides on the
5th floor of Mensing hall.
“Living in Mensing is laid back. Our RA, Dan Risdall has done a good job of getting us
all to hang out and building community,” said Manley.
On Sunday nights at nine, Manley joins other soccer enthusiasts in the gymnasium to
play soccer. There is a big group of players that turn out to play a few pick up games.
“I like to play because I get to see everyone stay in soccer shape,” said Manley.
Manley looks forward to when the warm weather arrives so he can take his soccer
games out to the fields. He plans on playing soccer for the NCU Rams this upcoming
season.
Monthly activity, Mensing meals, is when the three floors cook a meal for the other
residents.
“We always have a lot of food, games, and loads of fun,” said Risdall.
True Minnesotan Emily Fishel, junior Elementary education major is not entirely
bothered by the winter weather. She enjoys outdoor activities such as ice fishing, skiing,
and playing in the snow, but on the flip side Fishel also loves to cuddle up with a blanket
and hot cocoa in hand when the temperature is below zero.
“I do not like parking in the winter time. I have street parking. It is too bitter cold and
you can not do anything outside,” said Fishel.
Although the temperatures may be dropping, a few cold weather months does not
trouble Mickal Sayler, freshmen elementary education major, but she does get sick of it
fast.
“In the winter time I like how pretty the snow is when it is falling and all the different
outdoor activities like snowmobiling, sledding and snowboarding,” said Sayler.
After a day spent outside, Sayler could be caught cuddled up in a blanket watching
Eclipse and drinking hot coco.
Rachel Kruk, junior secondary education major newest obsession watching the
television show 24, has kept her inside away from the cold.
“I just extremely dislike being cold. So when I start shivering and losing feeling, I get
nervous that I'm going to get sick,” said Kruk
Kruk would recommend an ice skating rink right on the corner of Chicago and 46th.
There is a community center where anyone can rent skates for free, and they have many
community activities.
“I usually go with friends and my boyfriend skating. He is a much better skater than
me, being from northern Minnesota and all. I think it's in their blood up there. I like to go
with him and have him pull me around,” said Kruk.

KAYLA GRELL

The price of winter damage

By BAILEY SCHOTT
The snow starts falling from the sky and the ground
changes from a shade of black to a thick white sheet.
Now that winter has arrived, the streets and sidewalks
are piled up with snow. This shouldn’t be too surprising;
the average snowfall in Minneapolis during the winter
months, according to City-data, is 49.9 inches. The
US Roads website states one of the best solutions for
keeping sidewalks and roads clear is to salt them.
Walking on sidewalks through the “salty slush” turns
everything that contacts it white.
“I do not like the salt because it gets on my boots and
I’m not sure how to get it off,” said Kayce Kraut, freshmen,
worship leading major, “My newer shoes start to look
older and the bottoms of jeans get ruined. I am from an
area where we do not get a lot of snow, so I’m not used to
the effects of the salt.”
Damages from the chemicals in the salt extend to more
than just wardrobes.
Dr. Nancy Karracker, a scientist at the University of
Maine, reports, “We know that road salt can kill trees and
that white pines are particularly sensitive. Sometimes,
road salt puts such a strain on native species that hardier
invasive plants and animals take over.”
Road salt is also damaging to roads, as it results in
an increase of potholes around the city. The US Roads
website said the de-icing chemicals used on roads speed
up deterioration in concrete and steel structures. New
construction methods are reducing this impact, but
highways and bridges are still being damaged. Corrosion
on vehicles and structures has been estimated as the
largest cost impact of salt.
Kristie Jorgenson, sophomore, youth ministry major,
also shared her frustrations about salt.
“Snow is beautiful from a glance and fun to look at
through our skyways, especially while people dig their
cars out,” said Jorgenson. “It has become a strain on daily
life because of the driving, the salt, the traffic, and the
costly disadvantage of what it leaves behind. Let’s all
move to Florida.”

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 Lifestyle
Alumni spotlight
By JACLYN TRIEB
BenjAmin (Benji) and Kristin Klas are
North Central alumni who were married
on Aug. 7, 2010 in front of North Central’s
T. J. Jones Library. Kristin graduated in
May 2010 with an interdisciplinary studies
degree combining education and English
with a TEFL certificate. Benji graduated in
December 2010 with an English degree.
The Klases are expecting their first
child, a boy named Asher Duane Benedict,
due this May 5, 2011.
“Honestly, we’re still just trying to adjust
to the thought of being parents. We’re
thrilled, but completely terrified. Is there
really ever a way to be ‘prepared’ for a
baby?” said Benji.
The couple currently lives close to the
North Central campus in Steven’s Square
neighborhood.
“It’s an artsy neighborhood, which is
right up our alley,” said Benji.
He is attending the University of St.
Catherine for a master’s degree in library
and information science. Benji hopes to
work in a library with children and young
adults.
His wife is also continuing her
education. Kristin is enrolled at the
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
studying for her master’s degree in adult
education. She’s pursuing a teaching
Your Turn
What is your new year’s resolution?
Randy Brown
Freshman
Youth Development
“To become the next Shawn White.”
Leah Brady
Sophomore
Business
“I am going to fast once a week for my
James Martinez family. Read my bible in a year. And Jesus Vital and Tawsha Bonifaz
Sophomore work out more.” Junior and Sophomore
Pastoral Studies Pastoral Studies and Children’s Ministries
“To try overcome sin in my life.” “Our new years resolution is to be like
Mason and Jess Smith.”
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license in adult basic education, too.
Currently, she’s considering a second
master’s degree in counseling.
Kristin is teaching English at Hmong
American Partnership in St. Paul. Her adult
students are from Bhutan, Burma, Laos,
and Ethiopia and have all recently moved
to the U.S. with little to no previous
language education.
This year, Benji is working in the North
Central cafeteria while setting aside time
for volunteer work.
“I am putting my interest in libraries to
good use and gaining experience for my
future field,” explained Benji.
He is also busy writing and submitting
pieces for publication.
According to the Klases, in as much as
they both love their experiences at North
Central, they would agree that life after
North Central is even better.
“God has blessed us with each other,
a great place to live, and continuing
community,” said Benji.
He shared his thoughts about where he
thought he and his wife would be in the
next five years.
“We will probably be running around
trying to keep up with our kids, and
pursuing our second master’s degrees or
doctoral work.”
Juice Montezon
36 year old really, really cool guy
RD of Phillipps
“My new years resolution is to not have
a new years resolution.”
 Opinion
Read more news stories online
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New Year,
New Beginnings
By BAILEY SCHOTT
With a new year come new beginnings.
New semester, new classes, new goals, the
list goes on and on. This year in particular
seems to have a lot of hype with it. I see
many people, as well as myself, coming into
2011 with rather large expectations and new
ideas. Whether or not this is a good thing,
you can decide for yourself. However, I have
been noticing a common theme taking place
in this New Year, especially within the North
Central community. That theme is “dreams.”
Big or small, everyone has them; whether
it is to get straight A’s this semester or to
become the next Joe Mauer, or in my case to
be Mauer’s wife.
With these dreams also come doubts. We
ask ourselves questions such as “Is this really
attainable?” or “Am I talented enough to
make it?” No matter how hard we try to stay
positive, these doubtful questions remain
in the backs of our minds and sneak up
when they are least welcome. These doubts
take hold of us and can begin to slow us
down, possibly resulting in what we would
consider “failure.” I have heard many say, “If
you haven’t failed, you haven’t lived.” In this
day and age failure is not something that is
widely accepted, resulting in a fear of failure
within us. This makes me wonder, is it fear
that drives us?
Slavery: A thing of the past or a problem on the rise?
By JESSICA WARD
There are many things about our nations history that haunt us. One of those things is the issue of Slavery. Although
it seems like it happened so long ago, the effect it had on this country was scaring and will not be forgotten no
matter how deep we try to bury it in the past. It is devastating to think about what so many individuals went
through in effort to survive. What most people do not know is that that very same treatment and worse is still going
on today, just under a different name. That name is human trafficking, and according to the National Coalition
Against Domestic Violence it involves some 27 million innocent people.
By definition human trafficking is an act of illegally trading human beings for either sexual exploitation or forced
labor. The first reaction I had to hearing about this issue was disbelief. How could something so horrific still being
happing in our present day world? Furthermore, how could I not have heard much about it until college? In my
mind we had moved past all of this long ago. I quickly realized I was very wrong. Once I began to do some research
I was overcome with anger and discontentment with the situation mostly because it seemed that there was so little
being done to stop it, and even less being done to raise awareness.
One of the reasons progress is so slow is because few people know the issue exists. This is a big problem. It is our
responsibility to be educated on the major issues of this world first and foremost and our next obligation is to do
something about it. It saddens me to know that something so inhuman is happening yet many people choose not
to do anything to stop it. I think it’s about time that all of us make it our problem and do our part to deal with it
accordingly. There are many ways to fight to end this present day slavery. I joined that fight, I hope you will too. Here
are a few websites that can help.
http://www.freetheslaves.net/
http://www.polarisproject.org/
http://www.notforsalecampaign.org/

Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the LORD,

and he will give you the desires of your
heart.” Now, I have a lot of new ideas, or
dreams if you will, for this New Year and this
has become my “go to” verse. Too many times
throughout my life I have put God in a box,
therefore putting limits on his power. How
silly is that? Why not go to the Lord with your
desires? It only makes sense to, because if
anyone can make it happen, He can. With
God you will never fail and as you continue
to seek Him, your desires will align with his.
The fear of failure soon diminishes as your
trust in Him builds.

The arrival of 2011 has brought me to do a

lot of thinking and I have concluded that
this year I am rejecting fear. Insecurities
and doubts are not going to keep me from
achieving my dreams. I do not want to look
back ten years from now and ask “what if?”
Find your dreams and let God mold you and
allow him to give you the desires of your
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heart.

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 Opinion

Trends of last season

By JACLYN TRIEB
Fashion trends go in and out of style so quickly; it is hard
to keep up with it all! In 2010, I have made observations
about some of the biggest trends.
Boots have been in for a while and are great items
to own. From flats to heels, ankle to knee length, and
leather to fur, there are many options for women when
it comes to buying boots. Walking through snowy
sidewalks of Minneapolis gets pretty uncomfortable in
boots that soak up water, believe me, so be sure that your
boots are water resistant!
Cardigans are, I feel, another must-have for any girl’s
wardrobe. They add style and warmth to short sleeved
shirts or dresses. Short or long cardigans look good in
any color, but I think that classic solid colors like black,
grey, or white are sure to work with any outfit.
Another popular item for girls (and some guys) is a
fashion scarf. I have a few solid and plaid ones, but some
people (like my roommate) have close to 20 of them.
Solid colored, plaid, or flowered scarves are very cute and
fun in my opinion and can pull a whole outfit together.
Patterned and solid tights came back into style in
recent years. Especially useful for Minnesotans, I have
found that tights provide just a little bit more warmth
than nylons do. And unlike leggings, tights cover your
feet, too.
Leggings are still around, but ladies please, make sure
that your shirt or dress is long enough. Leggings do not
equal pants. Jeggings or skinny jeans look good on most
people and I love that they are the best pants to fit into
boots. When skinny jeans first came into style, I thought
they looked ridiculous. Now I can say that I am the proud
owner of skinny jeans and I love them.
Gauged ears is one trend that I do not partake in. I
don’t see the attraction of abnormally stretched out
earlobes with big plugs stuck in the earlobe holes. Now,
all three of my roommates have (or had) gauged ears,
so I can’t say too much. In fact, their plugs look good
on them. Don’t get me wrong, if it’s something you are
into, go for it. I’m just saying that you will not find me,
someone who belongs in the 1950’s, gauging my ears
anytime soon.
With all of these trends aside, I think that it is important
for everyone to make sure that what they wear fits
them well, is modest, and makes them feel good about
themselves

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True Grit
By JACOB VON ARX
The classic heroes have always been objects of our
affection. There will always be room in our lives for
the simplistic tale of white knights clearing the path
for righteousness to shine through in an otherwise
dark world, which is littered with buxom damsels
in distress, ferocious dragons and evil witches and
wizards who are constantly scheming to defeat those
honorable white knights.
Rooster Cogburn, in True Grit, is not that hero.
Cogburn, played by Academy Award winning Jeff
Bridges, is a U.S. Marshall with a notorious trigger
finger, is hired by 14 year old Mattie Ross, played
by Hailee Steinfeld in her feature film debut, to
track down Josh Brolin’s Tom Chaney, the man who
drunkenly killed her father. Cogburn, initially thinking
he was alone on the trip, is accompanied by Mattie
and a Texas Ranger named Leboeuf, played by Matt
Damon, who wants to capture the killer for his own
purposes.
True Grit should not be considered a “childhood
classic,” but the original, starring John Wayne, is a
staple in the childhood of our parents’ generation.
Although “childhood classics” are just that,
classics, a little touching-up never hurt. A snow-
topped mountain in Arkansas is less likely than a
construction-free highway in Minnesota.
This film is a masterpiece, in the likes of The Good,
the Bad, and the Ugly and Hondo. There are very few
mistakes, and even fewer plot holes. Although the
fact that a 14 year old could roll a better cigarette
than a 40 year old, and how a man of any level
of toughness could speak after biting his tongue
were both questionable, they were nonetheless
explainable.
This movie is not for everyone. As in all Coen brothers’
movies, the plot moves mainly through character
dialogue, rather than advanced CGI and special
effects. Jeff Bridges completely remakes himself in
order to portray the gritty Marshall. In this rebirth of
the sex, drugs, and rock and roll generation, many will
overlook this adaptation in favor of films like Piranha:
3D and Clash of The Titans, even though anything
with Liam Neeson can be considered a success.
True Grit was produced by Paramount Pictures, and
is rated PG-13 for some intense sequences of western
violence including disturbing images.

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Cheesehead
By AIMEE CORNELIUS • opinion editor
First, I would like to point out to all of those
individuals who did not believe me when I said
that the Packers would go
to the Superbowl, “I
told you so, I told you
so, I told you so!”
Phew, I feel much
better now. With
that being said,
I will point out as
to why I am a major
Packers fan. Many
people make fun of my
original homeland- South Dakota. Which
I understand, it’s fine. But with living in the
good ol’ prairie land, comes the choice of being
a loyal fan to whatever team my little heart
desires. South Dakota has NO professional
teams unfortunately. So why am I a cheesehead
you ask? Well for this simple reason: my dad
was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin. It’s in my
blood. True and loyal fan. I have been watching
the Packers play ever since I could remember.
It was my dad’s and I thing to do on Sunday
afternoons- father-daughter time.
Though the Packers are going up against the
Steelers, who have won six Superbowls total.
The Steelers even have the most Superbowl
rings of the NFL. Nonetheless, this is a
Cinderella story in the making. The Packers
have the deepest, most balanced set of
receivers in the NFL, led by NFC Pro Bowl team
selection Greg Jennings.
Though the Packers will go up against Ben
Roethlisberger (the quarterback of the
Steelers), the Packers have powerhouses like
Clay Matthews, B.J. Raji, Charles Woodson,
Tramon Williams, and Sam Shields. Four of
whom have been selected to the Pro Bowl
team. You just can’t look past that defense.
Plus, the Packers quarterback, Aaron Rodgers,
is playing with such confidence, efficiency, and
accuracy.
This will be such a great Superbowl game. It
will probably be a “edge of your seat” type of
game even. However, I am just going to say
this: the Packers will win.
Opinion
Bible or Constitution?
By MITCHELL CHAMBERLIN
I don’t think it’s any secret that I am a Republican. I voted
for John McCain in 2008 and I probably won’t be voting
for President Obama’s reelection in 2012. That being
said, this lecture is not for my friends on the left side of
the spectrum. This is a heartfelt slap on the wrist to all
of my cohorts that have “Conservative,” “Moderate,” or
“Libertarian” as their political view on Facebook.
Editor-in-Chief RUBEN PRIETO
Yes, we believe in freedom. We believe that as citizens of
the United States, we are part of a legacy that boasts itself Assistant Editor ERICA FULGHUM
in the right for “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
I agree with you fully. I believe that every human being News Editor FAITH HARSHBARGER
should have the right to all of those (as long as their
pursuit of happiness is not causing harm to others.) No Lifestyle Editor KAYLA GRELL
government should be able to control our desires for
those three ideals. Opinion Editor AIMEE CORNELIUS
Sports Editor REBEKAH JACKOBSON
However, I want to ask these questions: are life, liberty,
and the pursuit of happiness supposed to be our end
goals? Are we supposed to forsake all else and instead, Online Editor DALE HOUGHTON
assure ourselves what essentially adds up to be an
extremely comfortable life? Online Media Editor JOSH HARSHBARGER
Heck, no. We “Conservative Christians” have a job to
do and we have been doing it well in many cases. Just Director of Design DANIEL PETERSON
because the Constitution guarantees us the right to have
property and accumulate wealth doesn’t mean that we Director of Photography MARY BETH OAKS
should.
Business Manager BRIANNA ARNESON
Matthew 6:19-21 says that we shouldn’t be storing up
wealth here on earth because where our treasure is,
that’s where our hearts are. If our hearts on earth, they’re Advisor REUBEN DAVID
not going to be in Heaven. I don’t think that it takes a
theology major to know that Heaven and earth are two Online Advisor TODD WOLD
different places.
Writers DAVID RISDALL
So what do we do with whatever treasure we happen
to come across while we are here on earth? In Luke BAILEY SCHOTT
11, Jesus tells the Pharisees that they can receive the JACOB VON ARX
pureness and cleanliness they seek by giving to the poor. JESSICA WARD
In Luke 6, Jesus tells his disciples give to everyone who
CURTIS WARD
asks of something from them. Incidentally, this verse
is IMMEDIATELY before the Golden Rule. Why do we all STEPHEN KRIST
remember the Golden Rule but not the verse before it? KYLE MORGAN
All I’m asking, fellow Conservatives, is that we carry
JACLYN TRIEB
through with our Biblical mandate. Yes, we have the
right to store our own wealth up and keep it to ourselves, MITCHELL CHAMBERLIN
I don’t argue that. Does that right, though, supersede
what Jesus commands us to do throughout most of the
Gospels? North Central’s Student Newspaper Since 1960
910 Elliot Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55404
E-mail: ruben.prieto@mail.northcentral.edu
Advisor phone: (612)-343-4727
A member of the Associated Collegiate Press
and Association of Christian Collegiate Media
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Read more news stories online
www.NCUnortherner.com.
NCU Lady Rams
By Dave Risdall
The North Central women’s basketball team in the past
has not been very successful. This year the Lady Rams
look to build off last year’s success and become a force
to be reckoned with.
Like the men’s team the women have a very young
roster. Captain Charity Bowers senior, psychology
major and is the only senior on the women’s team.
Shoshanna Womeldorf is a junior psychology major,
and transfer from Crossroads College. Sophomore,
psychology major, Elisabeth Trickey and Christina
Goodman another sophomore, psychology major are
the only returning players along with Bowers from the
previous season. There are six freshmen girls this year.
Although the Lady Rams record has not shown
much success they have played some very close
games with very talented opponents. Including NCAA
nationally ranked Simpson College, as well as UMAC
powers, Northwestern and University of Minnesota-
Morris. They experienced a heartbreaking loss to
Presentation College as well as Northland College after
coming back from a double-digit deficit.
However the Lady rams made history when they
beat St. Scholastica College for the first time in NCU
history.
The Rams attended the Assemblies of God Credit
Union (AGCU) tournament in Springfield Missouri,
where they beat region opponent Trinity Bible College
N.D., and then lost to the second ranked team Valley
Forge Christian College Pa. They held even with the
Valley Forge in the first half but could not pull out a
much-wanted victory. Trickey was named to the all-
tournament team while Womeldorf was named the
tournament MVP.
The Lady Rams narrowly defeated rivals Crown
College 65-55. However, they will get their chance
again at home to play them again on February 8.
Freshmen, undeclared major, point guard Julia
Skeesick has done a phenomenal job at maintaining
order, poise on both offense, and defense. In addition,
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freshmen, undeclared major, Jorie Grenell has stepped
us as a strong shooter and driver that has proven to be
one of the top scorers on the team. Trickey continues
to lead the team in steals and her constant hustle.
Bowers has been dominant in the paint getting several
key boards for the rams. Womeldorf has also proven
herself a strong player and has really helped advance
the team offensively. Emily Aleckson a freshman,
urban stuides major has provided depth at the
forward spot after joining the team part-way through
the season. Goodman has continued her stellar
defense and leadership for the young team.
The rams hope to defend their NCCAA region title and
earn a spot in the national tournament hosted by Ohio
Christian University.
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by logging on to
NCU Men’s Basketball
By Dave Risdall
The North Central men’s basketball team got off to a
rocky start but has turned it around after a 0-5 start;
the Rams have improved their record to 7-9, including
important victories over Northwestern, University of
Minnesota Morris, Presentation and rival Crown College.
These are all members of the Upper Midwest Athletic
Conference (UMAC).
North Central also had a strong showing at the
Assemblies of God Credit Union (AGCU) Tournament
in Springfield, Missouri early this January. The Rams
defeated NCCAA number three-ranked Valley Forge
Christian College Pa. and narrowly lost to number
four ranked Central Bible College Miss. These games
along with the defeat of defending NCCAA champion,
Northwestern College should reward the Rams with a
higher seed in the NCCAA national tournament.
The men’s team is led by captains Nathan Roeder
a sophomore, business administration major and
Levi Kooistra a senior, pastoral studies major. The
young team boasts only four upperclassmen, three
sophomores and eight freshmen. After losing most
of the players from last year’s team to graduation,
the Rams future was uncertain for the year. However
several players have stepped up and helped to carry the
team. Among those key players is point guard Roeder,
Ross Johnson a senior, sports management major and
Kooistra.
Andrew Berndt a freshman, undeclared major, and the
first man off the bench has really proven a tough player
and has given the Rams key minutes throughout the
game. 6’5” freshmen center Bryce Burkman a business
administration major has proven that he can play down
in the paint and is a strong scoring and rebounding
force for the rams. As the season began to turn around
for the young team they have begun to play confidently
with each other and make a name for themselves.
Important upcoming games include regional games
against Faith Baptist Bible College Iowa and Providence
College Canada as well as other NCCAA opponents
Northland International University Wis. twice and
Crossroads College. Other UMAC opponents include
Martin Luther College and Luther College Iowa.
The Rams will host rival Crown College on February
8. After defeating the Storm 109-97, the Rams hope to
sweep the season series for the second year in a row.
The Rams are poised to finish the season strong and
make a run deep into the NCCAA national tournament.
The regional tournament is hosted by Providence
College in Canada this season. The Rams are the three
time defending champions of this region and are
looking to make it four. If the Rams win the tournament
they earn an automatic bid to the NCCAA national
tournament in Springfield, Miss.

A collapse in the Ram’s baseball schedule
By CURTIS WARD
As the North Central Ram’s Baseball team prepares
for their upcoming season, a major Minnesota
event would put a big damper on the start of their
season.
Because of the Mid-December “Snownomi” hitting
the Twin Cities, all the compiled snow weighed in
and collapsed the Metrodome’s roof.
The Rams having an early season double-header
scheduled along with the entire Upper Mid-
West Conference having 300 early season games
scheduled resulted in finding new locations for
their scheduled games.
Head Coach Tim Beasley had this to say about the
collapse of the Dome and the abrupt change in the
Ram’s schedule, “We are going to make the most
of the situation. It will be a later start to the season
and a more condensed season than we’ve ever had.
It will test our depth on the mound as well as our
stamina when playing 6 games a week several times
in March and April”.
Junior leftfielder, Jay Beichley said, “We are
disappointed that we do not get to play in the
dome this year. It moves our first game that we
would have played back further. We rescheduled
every game that we could and will be trying to play
them later in the season”.
The Rams did have to postpone some of the games
Sports
NCURAMS.COM
Meet coach Murphy
By KYLE MORGAN
Compliance Coordinator, Senior Women’s Administrator,
Athletics Department Administrative Assistant, Assistant
Women’s Soccer Coach, Head Women’s Softball Coach,
and “Murph.” These are some of the titles attributed to
2006 North Central University Pastoral Studies graduate
Allison Murphy.
Following the completion of her undergrad degree,
Murphy started work in the Admissions office, and
shortly thereafter began assistant coaching NCU
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women’s soccer.
Coaching was a natural fit for Murphy, having played
competitive soccer for over 10 years. After two years
of exclusively assistant coaching, she was given the
Compliance Coordinator position. Extra titles were
added as Murphy proved herself a valuable asset for the
due to the Dome collapse and the others they
Athletics department.
rescheduled in April. Practice for the North Central
Being Compliance Coordinator means Murphy is in
Rams kicks off February 1st. With some close last
charge of making sure North Central is compliant with
inning loses last season and some extra time for
NCAA rules and regulations in regards to athletes and
some conditioning in practice, Coach Beasley is
coaches.
feeling great about the season to begin.
“We like being a part of the NCAA because not only is
it a great chance to play other schools at the Division III
“I am very excited about the potential this team
level but well also feel that they care about the student
has. There are some variables right now that will
athlete. So it’s a check and balance system for us,” stated
determine just how good we will be but if we can
Murphy.
get everyone on the same page and stay healthy we
As is the case with many stories, Murphy doesn’t know
should be as good or better than anyone we play”.
exactly how she ended up staying at the school, “I kind
of fell into it, but I’m glad I did. I was working at Caribou
The North Central Rams recently struck up a
after school, trying to figure things out when Jake Smith,
partnership with Mizuno allowing the Rams to get
who I was assistant coaching for encouraged me to
all new jerseys and gear for the 2011 season. The
pursue full time employment at North Central. And it
Rams will begin the season March 11 where they
worked out pretty well.”
will be traveling to Joplin, Missouri for a four-day,
When not at school, Murphy enjoys running and
four game double-double headers against Hillsdale
experiencing the outdoors, “not like crazy though,
Free Will Baptist College and Ozark Christian
maybe three miles or so. I’m from the Pacific Northwest
College.
so I enjoy being in Minnesota where people actually
enjoy doing things outdoors.” Other than that, she loves
Junior youth ministries major, pitcher and first
reading books, pouring over 14,000 pages last summer.
baseman Jon Tolbert had this to say about the Rams
‘A Vocabulary of Faith’ by Kathleen Norris is one of her
kick off to practice their upcoming trip to Missouri,
favorite books, “It’s one of those that I’ve read over and
“We went into break knowing that we have a couple
over, though not necessarily in its entirety.” She is also a
rough weeks before the season to condition and we
fan of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie.
will be ready to rock Hillsdale Baptist College. We
Allison Murphy is a committed, hard-working, single
are ready to get some revenge!”
member of the school who the Athletics department
would be hard pressed to have to replace should she
For more on the North Central Rams Baseball Team
ever leave. She loves what she does, others love her for
log on to ncurams.com.
that.
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