MacKayla Feeney runs down the court past a Lake Region defense. Read more on page 22. Photo by Sarah Morris

BSC celebrates 75

years. See pg. 4

Is BSC fun

or not? See pg. 8

New Place for Sober

Living.See pg. 12

Need an idea for Valentine’s

Day?See pg. 16

Bison Winthe

Championship. See pg. 22

HAPPENINGS PERSPECTIVE INSPIRATION ENTERTAINMENT ATHLETICS

Volume 75 | Issue 4 | February 2014

How many times have we lifted our cameras or phones to take a picture, capturing a moment that lasts only a second, keeping it in our minds forever? That awesome building we saw on our trip, the group picture we took at the party or the selfie that we clicked of our new hairstyle becomes the focus of our picture.

But have you ever looked at your photo and instead of seeing the main subject, wonder what the life stories are of the people that were caught in the background? The woman sitting on the bench, the couple walking along the shore, or the children playing on the slide all have stories.

Now, I know that it’s pretty much impossible to ever find those people that were in your photos and talk to them. But, it is not too late to smile at the person strolling in the hallway at school, make small chat with customers as you ring up their purchases, or help the stranger pick up the pile of dropped papers.

Perhaps you won’t find out their life stories. Maybe you won’t even catch their names. But you may make an impression on their lives, whether big or small. A smile may lift a person’s mood; a hello may change someone’s actions.

So don’t forget about the people in the background. Maybe they are not your family or friends - most of the time you may never even know who they are. Take a moment out of your day to be nice to people, letting them know that they are special. You may be the lighthouse that cuts through the stormy lives of people that have lost hope. You may be the friend that shares in their joys. You may be just the person that they need.

Jade EagleTiffany Grannis

Megan HaagShannon HawkinsKatie MarthallerKenneth Mitchell Blake NemecekTanner Purintun

Sierra RathMaria T. Rivera Pérez

Alex StavigTayler Wolff

Sarah MorrisSenior Editor

Mission Statement The purpose of college media is to

serve and give voice to its students. We, as student journalists, are expected to provide content that is informative, fair and concise. With this goal in mind, this newspaper is dedicated to striving for accuracy and maintaining ethical practices.

The Mystician strives to be objective and is not affiliated with any organization. This publication upholds the principles guaranteed by the First Amendment and utilizes these rights to bring diverse, entertaining and thought-provoking material to our college community.Disclaimer Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual writer and not necessarily shared by the Mystician staff or Bismarck State College. We encourage and welcome comments and letters from our readers. All letters to the editor must be signed and include contact information.

Monday:Colton Ulmer 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Tuesday:Jordan Bitz 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Wednesday:Nicole Gibson 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Jerrod Schumacher 3:00pm – 4:30p.m.Thursday:

Erik Mathels 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.Friday:

Maria Perez 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.Mercer Sage 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Mystichat 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Staff

MystiCast

TheMYX

LetterfromtheEditor

Happy Valentine’s Day from the Mystician!

Bottom from left: Megan Haag, Katie Marthaller, Entertainment Editor Kelsie Seiler, Senior Editor Sarah Morris, Shannon Hawkins, Perspective Editor Tawnie Reisenauer, and Tayler Wolff.

Back from left: MystiCast Station Manager Jerrod Schumacher, Happenings Editor Derek Lee, Athletics Editor Kaitlyn Olson, Kenneth Mitchell, Maria T. Rivera Pérez, Inspiration Editor Nicci Johnson and MYX Station Manager Jordan Bitz.

Not Pictured: Jade Eagle, Tiffany Grannis, Blake Nemecek, Tanner Purintun, Sierra Rath and Alex Stavig.

Colton UlmerJordan Bitz

Nicole GibsonJerrod Schumacher

Erik MathelsMaria PerezMercer Sage

HappeningsPage 4BSC celebrates 75 years

Page 4BSC enrollment increases

Page 5Livestock endure weather

Page 5Surviving on the road

Page 6 Studying abroad

Page 6Target Identity Theft

Dr. Amy Juhala, Associate Professor of English at BSC, has been helping young students gain the opportunity to study abroad in both Scotland and Ireland. Read more on page 6. Photo by Sarah Morris

February 2014

04Bismarck State College Mystician

Celebrating the 75th Anniversary

September 4, 1939 was the first day of classes at Bismarck State College, then known as Bismarck Junior College (BJC). On the third floor of the Bismarck High School, 104 full and part-time students attended classes for $75 each. The teaching staff was comprised of 12 teachers that alternated between teaching high school classes as well as college courses.

Four year colleges, such as North Dakota State University, University of North Dakota and Dickinson State University, had already been established, but high tuition kept depression-era high school graduates from attending. BJC was an experiment, as it was North Dakota’s first two-year college.

By the time 1940 came around, the need for more space became urgent as numbers were soaring. In 1955 the 32nd Legislative Assembly granted Bismarck Junior College with 15 acres on the Capitol Grounds to build the campus site.

In 1959, only a few years later, the college was expanding and growing rapidly. It became apparent that they would have to look for a new location.

This problem was answered by Harold Schafer, a local entrepreneur and founder of the successful Gold Seal Company.

Schafer donated the land overlooking the Missouri River on the northwest edge of the city, which is the current location. The first classes on the new campus were hosted in the fall of 1961.

The campus made improvements by adding parking lots, sidewalks and landscaping.

In 1983, by the 48th Legislative Assembly, the college officially became a part of the North Dakota system of higher education.

Four years later, after many discussions about what to be named and almost being called a part of University of North Dakota, Bismarck Junior College’s name was officially changed to the current Bismarck State College.

The BSC campus has grown and flourished through the years. On Jan 23, a 90 minute documentary that brought together dozens of photos, recordings and research was shown, telling the story of BJC and BSC through the last 75 years.

On Sept. 4, 2014 BSC will be celebrating 75 years as a successful community college.

When the group of 104 students and the 12 instructors set out to start an experimental junior college almost 75 years ago, they probably didn’t foresee the college being where it is today — a thriving community college with 12 buildings and over 3,500 students.

While official numbers are yet to be counted, early enrollment numbers suggest rising trends in enrollment at Bismarck State College. This year enrollment increased by .6 percent, or 21 students, breaking the trend of dwindling numbers for the first time since 2011.

“Well, numbers aren’t necessarily up all that much,” Dr. Drake Carter, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, said. “What’s very encouraging in these numbers, is looking at the freshman class. Freshman numbers are up 6.8 percent, round it off to seven, and that’s telling us that we’re seeing,

I think, the results in growth of western North Dakota.”

The oil boom is not only bringing laborers to the state. Increased population also brings many people interested in continuing their higher education.

“There’s just a lot more people here. We’re probably seeing some students who put off school to work in the oil fields or to work in some related occupation,” Carter said. “... but 6.8 percent is a pretty healthy increase.”

Evidence of the oil boom can also be seen in programs of study chosen by new students. Students are being increasingly drawn to industry related programs at BSC.

“I think we see some pretty strong interest in our energy

programs and energy related sorts of occupations,” Carter said.

Enrollment at BSC is expected to continue to increase in the foreseeable future.

“I think looking forward we can expect to see enrollment growth, some real enrollment growth, in the next year to two years,” Carter said.

However, with an increase of only 21 new students, current students are unlikely to notice much change around campus, other than, perhaps, increased competition for seats in class and parking spaces. However, higher enrollment numbers may benefit BSC in the long run.

“Its sort of counter intuitive, but frequently increasing enrollments don’t translate into really positive

things, immediate positive things, for students.” Carter said. “Over the long term, increasing enrollments mean we have increasing revenues, so we can buy more specialty items or activities for students, so that their classes and program areas are very cutting edge and up to date. You always want the school to be financially healthy, and strong enrollments help ensure that.”

To accommodate projected growth, administrators are currently working to add another student housing unit, which is expected to be ready by fall of 2015.

Carter also said the college currently has no plans to add employees, but will add faculty and staff as needed.

Enrollment Trends on the Rise at BSC

BSC Through the Years

On Jan.23, Bismarck State College presented a documentary celebrating the past 75 years of campus evolution. Many people mentioned in the film attended this event. The documentary not only spoke of the growth of BSC, but also the experiences these people had.

The first Community College, known as Bismarck Junior College, or BJC, was established in Bismarck in 1939. BJC used to be on the third floor of Bismarck High School, where today it would be known as the science department. There were 104 students and 12 teachers, and tuition for BJC students was $75 per semester. As BJC grew, so did Bismarck High School,

causing administrators to realize BJC needed its own building. The Bismarck Chamber of Commerce approved a sale of 15 acres for $6,000 to give BJC the new building they needed. Sometime after Harold Schafer, a local entrepreneur and businessman, donated 70 acres for BJC to be expanded. In 1987, BJC was renamed Bismarck State College.

Since 1987, BSC went from one to 12 buildings. Some buildings were named after people who left an impact at BSC during their time, including Swenson, Schafer, Werner, and Lidstrom Halls.

BSC is still growing, as the Student Union is being expanded, and plans for a new library and dorms will make BSC a better place to call a second home.

Megan HaagRepoRteR

The first class of Bismarck State College graduated in 1941. Mystician Archives Photo

Maria T. Rivera PérezRepoRteR

Derek LeeHappenings editoR

February 2014

05visit us at: www.mystician.com

Winter Livestock CareRain, sleet, ice, and freezing

temperatures — winter can be a struggle not only for two-legged people but also four-legged critters. People can usually get the protection they need by bundling up with the winter gear or by being inside, but what can herdsmen do to keep animals healthy and comfortable in the winter?

Water is the biggest necessity that an animal takes in. Many novice owners think that snow and ice will meet the requirements of all the water they need. With daily water requirements varying from 3 gallons for sheep to 14 gallons for cattle, livestock would have to eat snow and lick ice every waking moment to meet the requirements.

Water is always required, even when temperatures are low. Using tank heaters is highly recommended to ensure that the water sources do not freeze up, but without heaters, he or she has to make sure to have unfrozen water offered several times a day.

Nutritional requirements are needed more significantly during cold weather. Energy from food is required for every season but varies as the weather changes.

Roughage (hay) is generally used. It lowers costs and heat is released as livestock digest it, but roughage is hard to find in most areas, so grains such as corn, barley, wheat and oats may be more efficient and affordable. Grain rates vary with species, so it is important to research before feeding.

Some weather fronts may require nearly double the energy requirements to help them stay healthy, but such a large, sudden, short-term increased energy intake is not healthy for most animals. Feed changes should be gradual.

Labor availability becomes a major factor in figuring out how to feed as well as how much livestock can be fed in the winter. With having to feed by hand, herdsmen will be able to have a better sense of what each animal’s health is like and how its appetite is, but may be more labor intensive. Many people feed bales to their animals once a day or sometimes even less, and that is when an animal’s health may be overlooked. Animals that are fed on the ground waste up to 50 percent of their hay compared to

animals that are fed more than they can consume at one setting.

Herdsmen should make sure the bunk is accessible to all of the animals so they get the ration they need. By dividing the animals into groups based on their needs, feeding will go more correctly. Pregnant and immature animals need to be fed separately. Failing to meet nutritional needs may result in poor milking capabilities and weak or dead fetuses.

The body condition is called fat cover or body reserves. It is in every animal and can be found through a process called body condition scoring. Looks can be deceiving. Under a thick coat or fleece an animal may be in poor body condition, so scoring requires hands-on work with the animals.

Shelter is another obvious concern. Livestock can tolerate cold weather if they are cared for properly. However, protection from the weather will decrease the energy requirements, feed costs and increase their comforts. Sheds, hills, tree groves and fences can all serve as great breaks from the North Dakota winds. When using barns, herdsmen need to make sure there is enough space so animals can lie down and still have enough room so they do not get trampled.

Herdsmen need to make sure that a structure is kept as clean as it can be and bedded down well with straw. The use of straw helps to insulate animals from the cold. Soiled straw will have fumes that build up quickly, which can soon restrict animals breathing and can lead to infection. Providing good air ventilation can help get clean air in the barn, but a herdsman has to make sure it is not too big, or the drafts will make the barn too cold.

Animals may have special health concerns in the winter, especially when they are pregnant. Deworming and vaccination should be on top of the list. During the winter, addressing internal parasites is a great idea because it will help the animals reduce contaminations in the spring.

Just because it is winter does not mean it is time for to overlook an animal’s need for exercise. Encouraging exercise by having the feed and watering sites in various locations is what herdsmen need to do. Exercise will help animals from becoming obese and will

help prevent overgrown hooves. Herdsmen need to trim hooves, provide good nutrition, remove manure, and minimize mud for proper animal health.

Addressing the special nutritional, environmental, and health needs of livestock in the

winter will help ensure optimal animal welfare and performance. Preventing problems is more economical than treating them, so in this era of challenging farm profitability, the concept of prevention will never grow cold.

Cows huddle to keep warm on a cold day. Photo by Sarah Morris

Tayler WolffRepoRteR

“Wind chill advisory and blizzard warning in effect for the following counties …” We have all seen these headlines lately more than usual for a frosty North Dakota winter. Even though North Dakota residents are tough enough to muddle through most blizzards, the -60 degree wind chill temperatures were extremely dangerous for anyone who braved the outdoors.

Almost the entire nation felt the effects of the abnormally cold temperatures through the beginning of January, as well as the last week. Temperatures in Bismarck for the last month have ranged between -20 degrees and 40 degrees. The National Weather Service Forecast Office said preliminary research shows that “arctic outbreaks” such as this only occur every twenty to thirty years.

With temperatures so cold, frostbite can develop within ten minutes which makes going outside and traveling perilous. During the coldest part of the month, several cars throughout the state refused to start, and no-travel advisories were wide-spread. But those on the roads needed to be prepared for worst case scenario.

Brittney Backman, a student from BSC, is already prepared with a survival kit and has had firsthand experience with traveling in bad weather this winter.

“My car stalled once after a freezing cold day of sitting on campus. I have jumper cables in my car, and pieces of a survival kit…(blanket, hat, shovel, scraper, gloves) The last road trip was to Fargo and the ride home was during a snowstorm where at some points we couldn’t see the front of our vehicle,” Backman said.

The North Dakota Department of Transportation suggests storing the following items in your car to use as a survival kit in case of emergency:

· Several blankets and warm clothing· A source of heat, such as multiple wick candle heater· Water and a metal container suitable for melting ice or snow · A radio and flashlight with extra batteries· Food, such as raisins, nuts, dehydrated fruit and jerky· Something to read to help keep you awake· A folding cup· Toilet tissue· Bright red or orange cloth and a whistle to signal for help· Nylon rope· Repair tools such as pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, pocket knife· Tire chains, booster cables, tow rope, antifreeze, and sand

Surviving the Frigid ND Air Sierra Rath

RepoRteR

February 2014

06Bismarck State College Mystician

BSC Study Abroad Programs Make Progress

Bismarck State College has made progress with offering students the opportunity to travel abroad for the fall semester through the University of Dundee in Dundee, Scotland and the University of Limerick in Limerick, Ireland.

“Our preference is that students will go over in the fall semester once they’re of sophomore standing, because then our students would start at the same time as new international students and so everyone is starting together at the same footing,” Dr. Amy Juhala, Associate Professor of English at BSC and study abroad coordinator, said.

The University of Dundee is settled in the heart of Dundee, Scotland with a five minute walk to downtown and the train station. Times’ Higher Education World University Rankings has named Dundee as one of the top 200 universities in the world with a campus that has been highly acknowledged for the research it offers its students, with majors that stretch from business to textile design. There will be a representative from the University of Dundee on campus April 3-4 for students that are interested.

The University of Limerick is settled in the town of Limerick, which has a different setting than the University of Dundee, but still offers the same high-quality educational benefits.

“The town of Limerick is on the edge of Limerick (county), so you’re not in the heart of

downtown, you’re sort of out in a big, beautiful, large campus,” Juhala said.

BSC is looking into including Limerick’s summer masters program as another choice for students, which is a three week program focused on Irish culture.

“Both campuses are beautiful,” Juhala said of the universities. “The people in both of them are wonderful. The international studies people that our students would be working with over there, who’d be their contacts, are lovely.”

Dr. Drake Carter, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at BSC, and Kari Knudson, Vice President of BSC’s National Energy Center of Excellence, are working with Juhala to make sure that financial aid and credits transfer easily through the programs.

“We’re trying to make it as seamless as possible,” Juhala said.

The number of classes and the amount of credits earned between the two schools is different. Students will only have to take three classes in Dundee, as each course is worth five credits. With Limerick, students would need to take five classes as the university’s class and credit system is the same as the United States with each course equaling three credits.

Student housing is guaranteed through both universities, but students will have to be quick with signing up for housing after being accepted into their university of choice if they want to have a place right on campus.

The estimated cost per semester program is $14,000. That includes

tuition, books, housing, groceries and other basic needs.

“Instead of looking at tuition, it’s looking at the bigger picture,” Juhala said. “Roundabout, it depends upon the exchange rate.”

To be eligible for study abroad, students would need to be a sophomore come Fall semester of 2014 with a cumulative GPA of 3.5. Students do not need to apply for a student visa to attend Dundee or Limerick. Participants to the programs would have to pay for their own health insurance and obtain a passport. Students will not be allowed to work during their semester abroad.

“The time there is to just focus on being a student,” Juhala said. “You

can’t get a work visa.” BSC is hosting a presentation

on March 12, led by travel writer Rick Steves, for students that are interested in what they will get out of studying abroad, or want a little more information about traveling. Steves has published numerous travel books, as well as documenting his adventures on his television show with PBS.

If students have questions about BSC’s study abroad program, or want more information about the visiting representative from the University of Dundee, they are to go directly to Dr. Juhala, who can be found at the BSC Library in Room 122.

Forty million people worldwide may have been victim to credit card identity theft just for shopping at Target. This has been going on since Thanksgiving of 2013. At over 1,800 Target stores worldwide, electronic payment devices were breached to obtain the credit card information of customers.

The thieves took all information they could get — first name, last name, and credit card information. Then after getting all of the information needed they were able to put it into a system so they would be able to extract it and make copies of credit cards.

According to this statement released by the Target Company, this is something that has been occurring. “This theft is not a new breach, but was uncovered as part of the ongoing investigation. At this time, the investigation has determined that the stolen information includes names,

mailing addresses, phone numbers or email addresses for up to 70 million individuals.” The company also stated they would be working to get this situation under control.

Taylor Reiten, a former BSC student, was one of the victims. Her parents had a business credit card, and she was fortunate to have a card in her name on that account. When random stuff began to be bought, her parents simply assumed it was her.

The spending soon got out of hand and Reiten’s parents decided to ask her why she was spending so much money. She notified her parents that she had no clue what they were talking about. They contacted their card provider and reported the card stolen. Later on they found out that they had been victim to identity theft.

This is still an ongoing occurrence. The best advice that Target is giving people at this time is to use cash until this problem is solved. No one can hack cash.

Target Identity Theft

Credit cards gone wild - identity thieves wreak havoc in shopping world.Photo by Sarah Morris

Kenneth MitchellRepoRteR

Shannon HawkinsRepoRteR

Student Housing, University of Limerick, Ireland Photo submitted by Amy Juhala

PerspectivePage 8Staff Editorial

Page 8Young Marriage

Page 9Leaving Home

Page 9Valentine Etiquette

Page 10Sarah’s Stories

Page 10Going Organic

Shannon Hawkins is a reporter on the Bismarck State College Mystician Staff. Leaving her long-time childhood home to come to North Dakota has taught her many lessons. Read more on page 9. Photo by Sarah Morris

Over the holiday break, I watched the first couple from my high school group of friends tie the knot. I couldn’t be happier for them.

I’ve known both of them for over nine years now, five of which they were dating, and I know they’re perfect for each other. I hope they grow old together, and when she develops dementia, he can read their life story everyday to her so they can fall in love everyday over and over again until they finally pass away together in their sleep. Whatever.

If you haven’t guessed by this point, I’m not a huge fan of getting married young. I understand the tradition and romanticism of marriage, and I hope the best for any young lovers choosing to get hitched at a young age. But sweet jesus. I could never do it.

I should mention that my friends and I graduated in 2009 and are all between 22 and 23 years old, which, in comparison to some of the engagement announcements and wedding photos that have been popping up all over Facebook, is ancient. Getting married at 19, huh? Have fun with the dry reception, I’m sure it will be a blast.

But all kidding aside, that isn’t the point. The decision to spend the rest of your life with someone should rank slightly higher in importance than picking your date to the high school homecoming dance. Even the tiniest pet peeve is going to be repeated day after day. Forever. Until you die. Before you pop the big question remember — marriages end in one of two ways: death or divorce.

Divorce is so prevalent in America, it has become

common knowledge that 50 percent of marriages end in divorce. Along with half of all marriages ending in divorce, (little known fact here) 100 percent of all divorces started in marriage. High divorce rates are a big part of the reason I’m unsure marriage is for me at all. In the five years since I graduated, I have changed more than imaginable. How much am I going to change in an entire lifetime? Or, for that matter, how much will my future wife change? Before I get married, I want to be confident that I’ve come into myself, and I want any potential spouses to feel the same. Five years down the road we could be entirely different people. Who can say we will even like each other, let alone want to spend everyday together for the rest of forever?

I know, I know. The point of marriage is to grow

together and change in the same ways. Your love gets stronger and stronger, until you have so much passion for your spouse you feel like you might spontaneously explode if you’re apart. Sounds great (not really), I just want to be done maturing on my own before adding another person to the mix.

I didn’t always feel this way about marriage. When I was in high school, I would have told you by the time I was 23 I would be married and have a “real job” — definitely dodged a bullet on that one. Why did I want to be married so young? It’s just what you do. You go to college, graduate, get a job, get married, and start a family. I still want to knock out the first three, but I’m not so certain about the last two. Before I get married or start a family — unless, god forbid, that happens by

accident — I need to be sure I’m doing it because that’s what I want, not what I think society wants for me.

I know this might not be the lovey-dovey Valentine’s Day column some of my readers might have been looking for this issue, and I’m not trying to make anyone feel guilty for being young and in love. That’s great, I couldn’t be happier for you.

All I ask, for your own sake as well as your significant other’s, be sure you take a look at yourself and make sure you’re ready before you propose on that romantic night at the Olive Garden this Valentine’s Day. From this point on theres no escape. Besides death. Or divorce. And that was a joke, if you think it’s a good idea to propose at the Olive Garden, you are definitely not ready to get married.

February 2014

08Bismarck State College Mystician

College is more than a classroom. Being involved and enjoying campus events and activities is extremely important to a student’s success as well as a college’s triumph. Not only do campuses need to have strong academic programs, students demand exciting and engaging activities. Students thrive on socializing, music, art, and an upbeat atmosphere. Does Bismarck State College meet these demands? Does it host enough activities to keep students happy and boredom free in spare time?

BSC hosts events such as Arts Quest, a showcase of student and alumni creative talent that takes place in the spring. Other events include, open mic night, held in the spring, which is all about expression, music, and coffee, as well as having several different sports teams that play

throughout the year. But when put to the question of “Is campus fun or not,” most students said not.

The Bismarck State College website has a page called Campus Life. This section lists all sorts of exciting things. There are several clubs and organizations, intramurals, and the BSC aquatic and wellness center. Even with these things listed on the website, students have a hard time finding out what is happening around campus.

The BSC Student Government Association hosts many events during the week, but sometimes students are not told soon enough.

“Student Government seems to have a way of posting an event at about nine am on the day of. Then I get home and read about what I missed. I think they could do a much better job of publicizing their events

before they happen,” said one student.

BSC has many students living off campus as well as on campus. People living off campus are not going to make a trip back for an event that only lasts a half an hour. Students living on campus feel like BSC turns into a ghost town on the weekend, because there is nothing happening.

“The only thing I do is just stay in my room until the weekends over, boring,” as another student said.

Organizations such as The Student Government do put on many great events, but students often find out after they have left campus, after the event, or sometimes not even at all. Organizations should start publishing more and make access to finding future events more student friendly.

Multiple students said they would love to see things such as concerts,

dances or more open mic nights.

“I’m not going to drive to campus for a half an hour event, but I would come for a dance or bigger event,” one student said,

There is a game room located in the Student Union, but students would like to see some more games in there such as foosball and air hockey. Some suggested game tournaments, such as a Rock Band competition,

pinochle or other card games.

Being involved on campus is vital to a student’s success. Having fun and exciting activities and programs is important to a college’s success and keeping enrollment numbers high. Students have given their input, and think Bismarck State College should strive for having more publicized, upbeat, socializing events.

Staff Editorial: Being Bored

Derek LeeHappenings editoR

Young Marriage

A ping pong table is among the activities to enjoy at the Student Union game room. Photo by: Sarah Morris

February 2014

09visit us at: www.mystician.com

I’m from Idaho. Now, wait...before you

think I came crawling in with the oil field, I should clarify now: my roots are from here. Technically, I should have been raised as a North or South Dakotan.

My mother was born and raised in Bismarck, North Dakota and my father was born and raised in Park Rapids, Minnesota. So, if the two people that put me on this planet were already from the Midwest, how the heck did I get out in Potato Land?

I was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and when I was a couple months old, we lived in Grafton, North Dakota for about a year before my dad, a Kmart, manager at the time, received a transfer to the store in Ontario, Oregon. Which is right on the border of Idaho. So, no, we didn’t move to Potato Land...we moved to Fruitland, Idaho.

I was brought up in a town of less than four thousand people and stayed in the same school district from Kindergarten up until graduation. I am the only child to my mom and dad. They raised me in the same house from the time I was two-and-a-half to the day I left home. This moment, as I breathe, my parents are

still sleeping in that house. I hope they keep it forever.

I would roadtrip with my parents through Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota once a year during the Fourth of July week to see extended family. We had absolutely no relatives within eight hours of us in Fruitland, so this was about the only way to visit with everyone. I got used to this for sixteen years.

Eighth grade year, I decided that I wanted to move to Bismarck and live with grandma while attending Bismarck State College to study Creative Writing. Why in God’s name at 14 years old did I already have decisions laid out that normally takes high schoolers all four years to think on? For a few different reasons, but for the easiest one being that I had never lived anywhere else before. This was stepping stone in its own way, and I think I slowly wanted to wander out into a different environment to see what I was missing. Who doesn’t, right?

I remember thinking that I was going to be bawling my eyes out the day I moved away from Fruitland. But, as I sat in the car with my favorite Minty Mocha drink from our local coffee shop, I didn’t shed a single tear. I felt this sadness in my heart

that I was moving my life away from the only home I’ve remembered since I was a toddler but here’s the thing: you’re the only one that’s holding you back. Trust me, my dad was practically angry with me the day I told him I was moving, because he didn’t want to lose his “little girl” and he thought this choice would be more expensive than just staying at home and going to school at the local community college in Ontario. You have to do whats right in your heart, even if it hurts the people closest to you.

I moved to Bismarck in August of 2011. Let me say that the decision to pack up and move two states away is not for the faint of heart. I’ve had both Christmas and Thanksgiving by myself now. I’ve had a job where the average time I left was one in the morning, even though this business closed at ten, and I have had more breakdowns from this job than I have had with any other position in my life.

I have tried dating twice...only resulting in the question on whether I want to swear off men for life after the emotional heartache both experiences have left me with. I have suffered a fair amount of mental and emotional pain that any young woman living out of the house the

first year would feel.However, I have had

the most incredible opportunities handed to me that I would not find back home. I have gotten to travel to both Scotland and New York City. I am working at the place where I have dreamed of laboring since I was 10: Barnes and Noble. And I have met some incredible friends and people that have opened my eyes to a world where I really have to take it all in. Had I not moved out here, certain events wouldn’t have happened that have given me the courage to chase after a goal I thought I would never make: to study abroad in Ireland next year.

It takes a scary amount of guts to wander away from

a backyard you have grown up in, practically, your whole life. That’s the only way you know your limits: when you take yourself outside your bubble and figure out what you want, and how you’re going to get it. You create new goals that you never knew you wanted to dream and you come away with lessons that never even crossed your mind that you needed to learn.

The only thing I can say is that if you have come out of a place where you’ve struggled more than you succeed, but you have no regrets about any of it, then that is one hell of a chapter that you have written in your life story. And you should never be afraid to look back.

A Time to Leave HomeShannon Hawkins

RepoRteR

Every one of us is our own little world. We all go through difficulties in our lives: putting up a front, smiling like everything is fine. Hoping for things to be better in the morning, but waking up to reality standing in the same spot as yesterday, scared of being judged.

As things get harder and harder, hope eventually disappears. We try to reach out to someone to give us the strength to go on day

by day, but everyone seems to have vanished from the face of the earth. So we let things get to us and bring us down.

Many people, like me, have always believed they need help to get through life and move forward. The truth: it’s the inner communication with oneself.

Throughout my life, I have faced situations where I say to myself “is this even worth living for?” And

eventually, I have realized that yes, it is worth living for those situations: where nothing goes right, and you want to give up and ruin your life.

There is a purpose for each and everyone of us, and there is a purpose for each situation that we face day to day.

We must stand up and be happy for who we are and how we act. Happiness is a choice– we must do it ourselves. We must learn

to take a leap of faith and battle everyday. Put yourself up, and believe in yourself even if nobody else believes in you. It is yourself you live, not for anybody else’s. Ignore the negativity, and absorb the positivity of people.

Be who you want to be and do what makes you happy. Just because you are having a bad day does not mean you have a bad life.

Maria T. Rivera PérezRepoRteR

Day By Day

Photo by Sarah Morris

February 2014

10Bismarck State College Mystician

My food tastes better. Do you want to know why? Because it is organic. It has even been scientifically proven. Researchers at Washington State University proved in lab taste test trials that organic berries were consistently judged as sweeter and better quality. By eating organic, I am promoting a less toxic environment for all living things, reducing off farm pollution, keeping family farmers in business, and protecting future generations.

Organic farmers are not

permitted to expose crops or animals to chemicals such as growth hormones or insecticides. If you had a glass of milk with breakfast, unless it was organic, it most likely came from a cow that was pumped full of hormones to make it produce more milk. Some of those growth hormones that were used on the cow are now in your body. Any medications or hormones that were in a non-organic animal’s body are going to end up in yours.

Did you know that fruits and vegetables with edible skin — tomatoes, strawberries, or peppers, for example, are heavily sprayed with pesticides – chemicals that kill off bugs and unwanted weeds? While the plants were growing, those chemicals were leaching into it. You may think something that is meant to kill a tiny little bug won’t have much of an effect on one’s body. But every time you eat a non-organic plant, even though you may wash it, you are

consuming poisons that are designed to kill. After years it is going to start to take a toll on the body.

Excess chemicals sprayed onto plants creates off farm pollution. It ends up in other places such as rivers and lakes, killing water species and plants, and ending up in our water supply as well.

Organic farmers are not allowed to use chemicals, so they are helping to eliminate off farm pollution.

Most organic food companies rely on smaller scale family farms for their food supply. Family farms are extremely important to the vitality of their hometowns and the nation. Family farmers depend on the land. It’s their source of income, so they aim to protect and preserve their livestock and the land.

They produce high quality food while supporting small businesses with their purchases for service and goods, stimulating local economies. American family farmers are the

backbone of this country, contributing 64 percent of all new jobs nationwide within the past 15 years, according to Farm Aid, a non-profit organization, whose mission is to keep family farmers on their land.

Picture this -– cattle crammed together tightly in confined areas without access to any sunlight or fresh air. This is what you will see at an industrial farm. Since the animals are overcrowded in such a small area, the potential for rapid spreading diseases increases. But to help prevent diseases, antibiotics and heavy chemicals are used, contaminating the air, soil, water and our food supply. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration allows six different sex hormones for meat and dairy production, how scary is that?

When I picture a farm, I imagine lush green pastures filled with cattle grazing away happily. This is the case with family farms. Their animals can

carry out natural behaviors in a natural habitat. They produce food without hormones, pesticides and other hazardous inputs. This ensures that water, air, soil, and food supply stay clean of any unsafe chemicals. Animals are allowed to roam freely in a natural state and treated humanely. Workers on family farms are provided a safe, chemical – free working environment, as well as going to work with happy animals and healthy crops.

When I choose to eat organic, I am helping to create jobs and stimulating local economies. I am protecting the air, land and water that is so vital to us. I am eating chemical-free, fresh produce and wonderful juicy steaks that came from a happy cow. So next time you’re at the grocery store, consider choosing organic and know that when you do, you’re getting the best food available and making a positive difference.

Like a tiny crazed architect, I brought my building plans to my dad: a miniature golf course. I wasn’t even going to ask for a castle as in the past.

Remember the good old days when you would get a fun holiday party in your elementary school classroom? Valentine’s Day was especially fun because we got cards from each other, and we needed a container to put those cards.

In my house, creating a Valentine’s Day box was like constructing the Eiffel Tower. And I loved it. Every year, the boxes would become more creative, more intense, more, well, large. Oatmeal containers, tissue boxes, and toilet paper tubes would be transformed into wonderful worlds where anything could happen.

In second grade,

we created a castle, featuring Phoebus from the Hunchback of Notre Dame saving Cinderella. Other Disney characters mixed with a variety of McDonald’s toys were also in the picture, saving the day.

Third grade was different: my family had gone to Disney World over Valentine’s Day, so I was forced to leave only a shoebox covered with paper at the school, letting it collect my messages.

In order to redeem myself from the shoebox fiasco, I was going to have to go bigger than ever. I wanted to construct the miniature golf course that we visited in Florida the previous year.

I was always very creative, eventually taking five years of art throughout school. Once, when my grandma was babysitting me, I “accidentally” colored the floor. Not wanting to get caught, I was going to

clean up the mess myself, without my grandma knowing. Many crayon stains still on the floor and one flooded kitchen later, my grandma decided to take things into her own hands.

But I wasn’t going to be careless with my creative side during this project. It wasn’t going to be a mess. No, it was going to be awesome.

My dad got out the humongous sheet of plywood to use for the base. Wanting the course to actually work, we constructed a twisty slide that my classmates could send marbles down, made out of masking tape, tinfoil and whatever else we could get our hands on. The slide was attached to a large castle-like box to hold the Valentines.

A ticket booth and a car racing track were made out of wooden-craft sticks and for some bizarre reason,

Tarzan even came swinging down from the castle on a line of string.

The project was finished, and we hauled it to school in the back of the pickup on a cold February day. Gasps filled the classroom as fourth grade eyes searched for a glimpse at this monstrosity.

Looking back at the photo of me with my creation, I realized something important. My grandma had just passed away on the ninth of February that year.

A few days before we

made this box, I remember telling my grandma just to let go. She was sick for many years, and I knew she was just holding on for my family. But when she died, we still were overcome with sadness.

I wonder now, if this family project brought us closer together. Perhaps it was more than just a Valentine’s box. Perhaps it was the warm sunlight needed to slice through the thick fog. Not to make us forget my grandma’s death, but just to help us move on.

Sarah’s Stories: Building a Box

Going Organic

Megan HaagRepoRteR

Sarah MorrisMystician senioR editoR

InspirationPage 12Hope Manor

Page 12Day By Day

Page13Dr. T and Nicci J

Page 13Bridal Survival

Page 14 Eating Healthy

Dr. Theresa Felderman, an Associate Professor of Psychology at BSC and Nicci Johnson, Mass Communications student, decided to make an advice column for the Mystician and BSC’s radio, the MYX. Read more on page 13. Photo by Sarah Morris

Page 18Life After 30

February 2014

12Bismarck State College Mystician

Opening the Door to Sober Living in North DakotaNicci JohnsoninspiRation editoR

It’s been three days. Three days since I have been asked how my day was. Three days since I have received a warm, loving hug. Three days since Clint started his new job. Not just any ordinary job. This is a job that requires strength, intelligence, and commitment – commitment above all else.

This job puts the food on the table, buys the boys’ clothes, pays for all our expenses, and is Clint’s dream job. To me, it is nothing but a burden. It takes my husband from me, from my children. Those poor boys have to grow up with no father around to look up to, to learn from. Yet, the only thing that occupies my mind is Mrs. Kennedy.

I know it’s foolish of me. This is work; Clint is always so serious when it comes to his duties in the Secret Service. I also know protecting Mrs. Kennedy wasn’t his first choice. He feels like he has gone from being the CEO to the secretary. Mrs. Kennedy is so gorgeous though. She is an idol to so many. Clint isn’t one to become attached. I have nothing to worry about – that’s what I keep telling myself.

...He’s hardly been home. This isn’t like the last

presidency. I at least saw Clint more than once every month. She is kidnapping my husband. Why does she have to travel so much? And why is she so fond of my husband? She is married to the President of the United States, yet she spends more time with Clint than Mr. Kennedy – than with her children!

Clint has become awfully infatuated with her also. The only thing we discuss is how

admirable Mrs. Kennedy is. All of the hidden talents she has – who cares if she can water ski. How many years does Clint have to be Mrs. Kennedy’s secret service agent? Hopefully only four years.

…Mr. Kennedy is dead – dead. Oh goodness.

I can’t imagine what Clint is going through. I know he is tormenting himself. Everyone knows it’s not his fault – everyone but himself. I can’t help but somehow blame myself for this. I spent so many nights praying this presidency would be over. I just wanted my husband back. I didn’t ever want something like this to happen.

I know it’s normal for people to have a million emotions rushing through their minds in a time of crisis like this, but is relief one that someone should be feeling? I know it’s not, but I can’t help to feel a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. Clint will be coming back home. Hopefully it’s not too late to mend our broken relationship. Things have been so tough the last three years. I feel the connection he has with Mrs. Kennedy every time he has come home, the very few times I’ve seen him anyway.

It is so hard raising two boys without him. I can see the pain in their eyes. I hear it in their voices every time they ask when their dad is coming home and I can’t answer their question. I can’t even talk to Clint about the problems back at home. The only thing he wants to discuss is traveling the world with Mrs. Kennedy. How everywhere they go nobody can seem to get enough of the immensely idolized Mrs. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. I’ll tell you who can get enough of her… What am I saying? This poor woman’s husband has just been

murdered and the only thing I can think about is my husband being relieved from her service.

…Clint just called. He will be with Mrs.

Kennedy for another year. I don’t know if our relationship can handle one more year. I know she needs him. I also know that he needs her. He can’t discuss with me the trauma of that day. The only person in this world that can feel the same pain as him is Mrs. Kennedy, Ms. Kennedy.

…Everything I imagined about Clint returning

home was wrong. He is nothing more than a shadow in this house. He wakes up, goes to work, makes himself a meal, and goes to sleep. There is no talking. He can’t repress the memories of that day. He blames himself. He misses Mrs. Kennedy.

Mrs. Hill. Ms. Hill. I don’t know if that is too far away anymore. This relationship may be beyond repair. There seems to be no other option. We are nothing more that two mere strangers living under one roof. The only things we seem to have in common are our two boys. I can’t pretend to be content with this anymore. It’s time to move on.

…It’s been three years. Three years since I’ve

seen Clint. I wonder how he is holding up. The boys say he is making progress. I think they are the only people keeping him sane. These past three years have been so hard without him, but so were the many years I spent staying up at night praying he would come home for just an hour. There was no other option. This is how we were meant to be.

Written byCampus Read Essay Contest Winner

Alexandrea Leidholm

Mrs. Kennedy and Us

North Dakota now has its first Sober Living Home for Women called Hope Manor. This place houses women who want serious, long term recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.

Judith Roberts developed this idea while working as a defense attorney in western N.D. oil country. After seeing first hand the effects of drugs and

alcohol, not only in her personal life but also in others, Roberts sparked a vision that has been mirrored after Puente House, a sober living home in southern California.

Roberts met Karl Moris, the Vice-President of Sober Living Network based out of Covina California, at a conference in March. They discussed the possibility of sober homes in North Dakota. Roberts

was skeptical at first but since then has bought a

house, and with the help of major donors and hundreds of hours of volunteers working around the clock, gave it a face lift to make the women who have moved in feel as at home as possible.

“Considering that 23 million people in our country struggle with alcohol and drug addiction, this is something that touches everyone’s life, either directly or indirectly with a family member,” Roberts said. “The cost to our community, to our country, to our families is incredible, whether financially, or emotionally, physically, mentally. This doesn’t cost the state, the community, taxpayers anything.”

According to Hope Manor’s Facebook page, “The most critical component to this plan for recovery is willingness and time. Addiction cannot be treated in 7 or 21 days. Most newly sober alcoholics and

drug addicts need an environment strongly committed to supporting their new found sobriety.”

People have shown support around town and even surrounding states have sent in check donations. Since Hope Manor is a non-profit organization, major donors have helped to purchase beds, household items and personal items for the women residing there.

A benefit concert with a performance by Grammy Award Winner Paul Williams is scheduled at the Belle Mehus on Feb. 23. Profits from this fundraiser will be used to help out with any costs toward the house such as lights, rent, plumbing and other items needed to keep Hope Manor in working order. For more information concerning tickets for the concert, or questions about Hope Manor at 701-955-4335.

February 2014

13visit us at: www.mystician.com

Last year I did something different than I had ever done. I enrolled in college at the age of 32, pursuing a Mass Communications degree. I want to be a motivational speaker and life coach. Now I am discovering that life has endless possibilities if you take a risk.

I have always had a desire in my heart to help people. I didn’t want to be a nurse. I am not mathematically inclined, so being a banker is out of the question. However, I do have the gift of gab. I also have gone through plenty of experiences in my life to be able to discern what is right and what is wrong.

Taking Introduction to Psychology, I met Dr. Theresa Felderman, an Associate Professor of Psychology at Bismarck State

College. Not only is this woman an incredible teacher, she loves life and enjoys seeing others succeed. I mentioned to her my interest in the new campus radio station, The MYX, and we came up with the idea of a student/teacher talk show and advice column for the Mystician.

There is a box outside of the Mystician Office, in the lobby of the Jack Science Center and also in the Student Union. I encourage you to write down any questions you may have concerning topics such as friendships, self-esteem, health, parents, love life, stress, or work and place them inside the box for us to answer. These topics are very common among college students and we are happy to answer them through the advice column and on our radio show coming soon.

These questions will remain

anonymous; I understand things are very personal and hard to discuss. We are not here to judge you, but to encourage you to perhaps try something different, take a new approach, change your perspective and take a risk.

So many factors come into play when deciding what is right or wrong for your life.

In my experience, I have had to add a dash of happiness, a sprinkle of courage, a pinch of ambition, and a whole lot of patience when faced with a heap of struggles. I have had to admit when I am wrong.

People might be hesitant to enter their questions to a college advice column/talk show. But have no fear. We (Dr. T. and Nicci J.) use our education and life experiences to provide an open-minded approach to a prescription for life. We look forward to hearing from you.

Prescriptions For Life with Dr.T and Nicci J. Nicci JohnsoninspiRation editoR

The dress, the reception venue, the tuxedos and the DJ … There’s so much to think about when planning a wedding, that it gets a bit overwhelming; trust me, I know.

Between balancing a busy work and college schedule, plus the extra necessary hours at the gym before that dreaded first dress fitting, it’s hard to find time to get the rest of the wedding plans in order.

Yeah, wedding planning can be stressful. BreAnna Hardy, a student at Bismarck State College, full time bank teller, and bride-to-be knows the feeling all too well.

“So far, the guest list has been the most stressful part of the whole planning process,” Hardy said. “It’s extremely difficult to get both sides of the family together in order to copy down everyone’s address books, and weeding out the people my fiancé and I don’t personally know. I’m so afraid I’m going to end up forgetting someone, and then them missing out on our special day.

“I started planning immediately after we got engaged, and I got the big stuff out of the way first, so I’d have less to worry about as the day gets closer; the DJ, photographer, and the venue are all booked. The

only things I have left are the small details. It definitely makes my life a lot easier, and a lot less hectic.”

Venue rental fees are at astronomical prices, which makes the hunt for a ceremony and reception location difficult if the space isn’t booked several months in advance because everything fills up so fast. Working around bridesmaid’s schedules for fittings can become daunting, homework is piling up and before you know it, you’re breaking out in a cold sweat and beginning to panic.

No matter how much stress I’m

feeling throughout this process, it’s extremely important to find a way to unwind and de-stress, especially as the big day creeps ever closer.

“I love a good workout at the YMCA after a tough day of school, work, and planning” Hardy said. “It’s one of the best ways to blow off all that stress from my day, and make the most out of ‘me time.

“Family is also super important in the planning process. My fiancé’s sister has helped me so much throughout this whole thing, and she’s taken a lot of the weight off my shoulders now that our

wedding is less than a year away.” When planning a wedding

it’s crucial to include family and friends as much as possible to save your own sanity.

As for BreAnna’s fiancé, Keith Wolf, he’s got a little advice for the grooms out there, too.

“I don’t ask BreAnna many questions and just go with the flow. It’s important to remember that it’s her day, and what she wants is the main thing,” Wolf said. “I try to help her with the planning as much as I can, but she doesn’t always like my ideas. I usually just say, ‘okay,’ and move on. I don’t want to make the process harder for her, but I help her wherever I can. It’s a team effort.”

Remember always staying organized with your plans is also key; keep a binder full of your ideas, receipts, and addresses so you don’t lose anything in the whirlwind of planning.

Take advantage of new technology by downloading wedding apps for your phone such as ‘The Knot’ or even ‘Pinterest.’ Stay in touch with the community by attending bridal shows and venue open houses. Most importantly, stay cool, calm and collected so you can curtsy down the aisle with confidence on your special day.

College Bridal Survival GuideKelsie Seiler

enteRtainMent editoR

Dr. Theresa Felderman and Mass Communications student, Nicci John-son host an advice column/radio talk show on campus Photo by Sarah Morris

Brides find ideas at the “I Do” Bridal Show on Feb. 9. Photo: Kelsie Seiler

February 2014

14Bismarck State College Mystician

When I was young, I dreamed I would be married, have children, a dream house and a white picket fence all by the age of 30. I wanted the American Dream or so-called dream anyway.

Since then I have learned that the idea of a “perfect” life doesn’t exist in that world. There is a world where I have found an idea that when I put my mind to something anything is possible – if you believe in being imperfectly perfect.

Now what does that mean? Let me explain, my dear. There was a time when I was led to believe that having money, power and prestige would get me places in life. Little did I know that life happens on life’s terms, and I would be here today.

The world that I speak of is a place that lies deep in our soul. This is a place where only you know who you truly are meant to be. Here you know what is

“perfect” to you. This is an understanding you have with your Inner Guide, your Creator, the Mystery, The Force, Great Spirit or whatever you choose to call the Higher Power of your understanding.

Often times we place our value in exterior things. When we get that car we will be happy. When I have that promotion then I’ll feel good. When I get him or her I’ll be worthwhile. There we go again, placing our value in things that can’t be taken to the grave. A job doesn’t define who I am. Neither do shoes, relationships, power nor prestige.

Seriously though, think about it. Take a moment and ask yourself this crucial

question: Where do I place my value? Is it in money, is it in straight A’s, having a nice car? Is my value and self-worth portrayed in my physical being? Or am I placing my worth in my Higher Self?

Higher Self is what we call the principles of humanity. Here we find compassion, love, tolerance, humility, joy and all the things that bring us to be our best.

The Lower Self is defined by a hundred forms of self-inflicted fear such as anxiety, worry, hatred, depression, negative self-talk and character assassination.

Now what does all this have to do with Life After 30 and why am I talking

about Inner Guides, white picket fences and being imperfectly perfect? I thought I would have all of my dreams accomplished by the age of 30. I’m 33. I have no kids, and I am living in a house with six other ladies. I am not married but I am alive and ever present in this journey we call life.

Over time my dreams have evolved. I have discovered that life is progress, not perfection. Today, when I choose to look at things differently – the things I look at are different. The fastest way to get where we are going is to slow down.

So I will close with this, my friends: Yes, there is Life after 30.

Life After 30

Nicci JohnsoninspiRation editoR

There are many examples as to why college students do not eat at all during the day. Some of them have too much homework, others are busy taking care of their kids, or working many hours at their jobs. Many people think that it’s okay not to eat during the day and to only eat before bed, but the reality is exactly the opposite.

The human body functions better after eating. Food gives the body the nutrients it needs to convert to energy, helping people feel more strengthen without getting tired. As many people know, the most important meal of the day is breakfast. It is not necessary to eat a buffet, but it should be something other than sweets or high sugar foods.

Dr. James Michael, an eating disorder specialist at Sanford Health Center in Fargo, offered some healthy eating tips for college students.

“When you eat something that contains a lot of sugar during the morning, your body will still want more of it” Michael said “if

you don’t eat all of your meals throughout the day and give the body what it wants, it will make you more hungry and gain weight too.”

Something as simple as eating fruit can help sustain people all through the morning until they need to eat again. One of the things that many people do is bring food from home in self-sealing bags or in Tupperware bowls and eat it throughout the day. It does not have to be a large meal but something that the body can convert to energy.

If there is no time to prepare it in the morning, do it before bed. It only takes about 15 minutes to prepare a healthy meal. Remember, “You are what you eat.”

Healthy Eating Tipsfor College Students

By Maria T. Rivera PérezRepoRteR

Coming soon The MYX: Prescriptions For Lifewith Dr. T and Nicci J,

a student/teachertalk show abouthow to handle

every day situations.

Breakfast: Tuna sandwich with lettuce andtomato toasted 100% Orange juice7 Almonds Apple

Lunch:Lettuce and tomato salad with some green beans cucumbers and olivesWaterProtein barPlum Dinner:Rice with beans and chicken 100% Apple juice YogurtOrange

Fruits: apples, bananas, mangosProtein: nuts, eggsDairy: milk (Soy milk for the lactose intolerant), yogurt, cheese (tofu for the lactose intolerant)Grain: bread, tortillas, cereal Vegetables: beans, peas, lettuce

*One serving size will be enough to help someone get through the day.

The Student Union at BSC has a salad bar that promotes healthy foods. Photo: Maria T. Rivera Pérez

EntertainmentPage 16Valentine Serenades

Page 16Date Ideas

Page 17Tawnie’s Reviews

Page 18BSC BS

Page 19 Downtown

Page 20Calender

Aaron Landrie (left) is in the men’s ensemble at BSC. He has arranged one of the Valentine’s serenade songs, “Kiss from a Rose” by Seal. Also pictured are Graham Thomas and Dawn Hagerott. Read more on page 16. Photo by Sarah Morris

February 2014

16Bismarck State College Mystician

12 Men, One SoundSarah Morris

senioR editoR

Guys of Bismarck State College! Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and for those with that special someone, the pressure is on! Do you have your date all planned out? This is the perfect day to impress your girlfriend and really show how much you care about her by blowing her away with how much thought you put into planning the perfect gift and date.

You can’t really go wrong with

the traditional route; flowers, chocolate, a cheesy hallmark card with sparkles to go along with a nice dinner and possibly a romantic movie will get you by. But why not make this year special? Make this Valentine’s Day date the one that she will never forget.

The only problem: Bismarck in the middle of winter does not have many romantic places to go. Here are a few ideas:

First, turn a regular

date into a romantic, progressive date. Instead of just going to dinner, have parts, or phases of your date. Leave her a note or a text in the morning letting her know

where to meet you. Schedule a winter wonderland couple’s photo shoot; get all dressed up. See when the local skating rinks are open and take a few laps arm in arm. Plan a scavenger hunt and go around town hitting all the spots that have meaning. Go to the place

where you first met, first kissed, and had your first date. Set up a picnic somewhere, even if it is in your living room. Don’t forget the candles and roses.

Just remember, Valentine’s Day isn’t about chocolate hearts, it’s about the person you’re with.

So if you want to hold up cute notes in a photo booth, leave random notes in her textbooks, write a love letter on the back of a picture of both of you, or spell out “I love you” with chocolate kisses, go for it. This is your day to woo her. Woo away!

Beautiful sound rings out from the lips. It is not affected by the diverse styles, personalities or ages; rather, it is has freedom to blossom because of these differences.

The men’s ensemble at Bismarck State College is comprised of such people; different yet working towards a similar goal: to blend 12 voices, either in harmony or unison, creating a melodious song.

For the past six years, Dawn Hagerott, Assistant Professor of Music, has been leading the, BSC Men’s Ensemble in Valentine’s Day serenades.

“I kind of started it as a way to raise awareness about music on campus,” Hagerott said.

But over the years, the experience has become so much more.

“I think the best part is just kind of lightening the day, because for some people Valentine’s is a great day, for some people it isn’t a great day,” Hagerott said.

Not only the people that receive the Valentines are benefited by the serenades.

“I think that it will help us become a little more connected with each other which is what life is all about, connecting with one another so that we may grow as individuals,” said Aaron Landrie, singer in the men’s ensemble.

This year, the men will be singing “The Longest Time” by Billy Joel and “Kiss from a Rose” by Seal.

Landrie, a student at Bismarck State College on his journey to complete a Music Education Degree, arranged the song “Kiss from a Rose.” by Seal.

I had a lot of fun arranging it,” Landrie said. “It has some tricky spots that the men’s ensemble is pounding out with the help of Lexi Land, our awesome accompanist … I hope that this song shows how hard the Music department tries to makes sure the students are successful.”

Even though the Valentines are love songs, they are not only done for people in relationships.

“[It] doesn’t have to be just romantic, [it] can just be a nice gesture,” Hagerott said. “The biggest thing is for people to know that anyone can order it for anyone.”

People interested in ordering a serenade need to contact Hagerott at 224-5768 to schedule a time and place for the Valentine to be performed. Final day to schedule is Feb. 12. It costs 20 dollars for a song and a long-stemmed red rose, 25 dollars for both songs and a rose.

“Most of it [the money] probably pays for the roses, because long-stemmed roses are kind of spendy,” Hagerott said. “What’s left goes back into the student account for the students.”

In past years, the roses were bought at Central Market, now Dan’s Supermarket. Roses are not the only tie that the grocery store has to the BSC Singing Valentines; rather, a serenade that one employee had ordered, something that Hagerott has ingrained in her memory.

“He worked at Central Market,” Hagerott said. “He and his wife met as part of the Restaurant and Food Management that used to be over at the Armory. So he convinced her to go to lunch, and

then they met in the room that they kind of started their relationship. We sang to them in the Armory which was kind of cool.”

People would have to come to BSC if they wanted to receive a serenade in the past. But recently a change has been made, for the men’s ensemble does not have to stay campus-bound.

“Last year we went around the community for the first time,” Hagerott said. “That worked great and it was received really well. So we are going to do that again.”

The Ensemble will be on campus from 9 am - 2 pm, and in the community from 2 pm - 6 pm.

“I am sure by the end of the day we will be tired and our voices will be hoarse but it’s about the experience and the connecting and

growing,” Landrie said. The men did 23 Valentines last

year, with only about one-fourth of them being for students.

“The thing that is interesting, is that I kind of initially did it because I thought it would be neat for students to do for students, but they are actually the least ones that do it,” Hagerott said.

Whether it is that special someone, a teacher that has been of great help or anyone else that is in need of love this Valentine’s Day, the men’s ensemble is ready to be of assistance. 12 men, one sound, ready to connect the hearts of people around the BSC campus and the Bismarck community.

The BSC Men’s Ensemble prepares to deliver singing Valentines.Photo by Sarah Morris

Finding the Perfect Date IdeaSierra Rath

RepoRteR

February 2014

17visit us at: www.mystician.com

Downtown in Your Down Time

Downtown is a young adult ministry for college-aged people that want to spend time together while learning more about Jesus. This group provides a venue that allows young adults to create relationships with people in similar stages of life.

Aaron Schuler, an associate pastor of New Song, is the primary facilitator of the Downtown young adult ministry.

“Downtown is a ministry of New Song Church set to serve and reach young adults in our community through music, spending time together and serving,” Schuler said.

Schuler scrunched his face and shared the reason for starting the ministry.

“We realized, in our city, that there are so many 18 to 30 year-olds that are floating through life, trying to figure out what to do with the years they have ahead of them in and out of college,” Schuler said. “We really wanted to be there to support those people in our community.”

Erika Grade, a 20 year-old newlywed, has been involved in

this ministry since its conception.“I attend New Song regularly,”

Grade said. “The youth pastor, Aaron Schuler had been talking about a young adult ministry for a long time.”

Downtown has many goals. These values are incorporated into the ministry’s mission statement.

“Downtown’s major goal is to reach young adults and help equip them to do whatever God may have for them in their lives,” Schuler said. “We also like to create a place where people can come and connect with people their age – people who are going through the same stages of life, same struggles, same moments of happiness.”

A unique quality to Downtown is that it provides a family-like environment for people. It is easy to meet new people that are in similar stages of life.

“It’s cool because we have formed some pretty tight bonds with other people,” Grade said. “We are learning that connecting with people that are going through the same things as us is very valuable. It is interesting hearing what other people have gone through and learning from their experiences. There are two other

newlywed couples that we have gotten to know pretty well from Downtown. There are a lot of relationships that I know will last for a very long time and at the same time we are reaching out to other people and bringing them closer to Jesus.”

Levi Barker, another attendant of Downtown, also appreciates the opportunity to meet new people.

“It provides connections with people that I may not have otherwise had connections with. There are a lot of different people that come. It helps me to see that even though we are all different, we have a lot in common and we are all going through similar things,” Barker said.

Schuler reflected on significant moments from past Downtown events–one major milestone stuck out in his mind.

“The first open mic night that we did was one of my favorite moments for this ministry. It was only our third week of meeting, we had no idea who was going to come. There were around sixty people that showed up. People brought their guitars and played music and sang,” said Schuler.

Downtown will be hosting open

mic nights every third Tuesday of the month at Café Aroma. Any and all young adults between the ages of eighteen and thirty are welcome to attend and even perform.

“We would like to have a presence in the community, so that when people hear about Downtown, they hear about people that love the Bismarck community and want to help it grow,” Schuler said.

Schuler shared why this ministry is important to him. He is very proud of what Downtown has become for people.

“There was a person recently that said that they really felt like they were home, that they felt like they were with family when they were here,” Schuler said. “That was a big moment for me, that is the goal.”

Downtown meets on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. The ministry was originally based out of a local coffee shop called Café Aroma. Downtown has however recently had a venue change. It is now taking place in New Song Church, located off of North 11th Street. While the group will occasionally gather at the original site, the majority of the time will be spent in the church.

Blake NemecekRepoRteR

Lieutenant Governor gets Roasted

On March 6, Figments of Imagination, the student run literary publication, is putting on a fundraiser roast with guest of honor Lieutenant Governor Drew Wrigley. Tickets are 25 dollars for a buffet dinner starting at 6:30 pm and the roast at 7 pm. The event will be located in the Bavendick Stateroom on the fourth floor of the National Energy Center of Excellence on the Bismarck State College campus.

Last year Figments of Imagination had great success in roasting Dr. Larry Skogen. Many laughs echoed through the room as numerous people teased the former president of BSC. A great line-up of roasters is intended for this year’s events as well.

Clay. S. Jenkinson, distinguished Humanities Scholar at Bismarck State College, is the Master of Ceremonies. Scheduled to make

an appearance are Drew Wrigley’s wife, Kathleen Wrigley, Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem, former Lieutenant Governor Wayne Sanstead, AP Reporter Dale Wetzel, BMSO Music Director Beverly Everett and Public Service Commissioner Julie Fedorchak.

The money raised at the event will go towards the production of this year’s publication. For 22 years, BSC’s Literary Publications class has been putting together a book of collected student artwork written works, and multimedia. Any student enrolled at BSC can submit their work, and the submission end date is March 7.

Green drop-boxes will be placed around campus to collect student work, and students can also submit electronically at publishthis@figmentsofimagination.org. Tickets for the roast can be purchased online at www.bismarckstate.edu, the BSC Bookstore, and by phone at (701) 224-5453. Any questions contact Kim Crowley (701) 224-5574.

Sarah MorrissenioR editoR

February 2014

18Bismarck State College Mystician

February Astrology: For the Lovers in All of Us(For Entertainment Purposes Only)

Valentine’s Day is coming up, and plans are being made – whether it’s rebelling against the commercialized holiday and making a date with a pint of ice cream, or planning for the perfect night out on the town with a sweet-heart. Either way, love is on everyone’s minds, for better or for worse.

Astrology can help us determine the right moves to make on a date or while in a relationship, or even help us learn a little about ourselves and how we act when we’re in love.

Aries the Ram: <March 21 - April 20>In Love: Rams are fiery and straight-

forward, and if they like you they won’t be coy about it. Ariesians love the chase of a new fling, being ruled by Mars - the planet of conquest. Love is another battleground for them, so don’t be afraid to let them hunt you down; however, make sure to never play head games with them – they’ll just get pissed off and leave.

Dates: Being with an Aries is always an adventure, and staying at home and doing nothing is not an option for people under this sign, unless you like getting set on fire. Physical activity is always a plus with energetic Rams, so think about a date at the batting cages or tickets to a local sports event.

Taurus the Bull <April 21 - May 21>In Love: Steady Taurens are loyal.

Bulls look for comfort in relationships, and there’s nothing they enjoy more than just lying around the house and snuggling with someone they love. They cannot stand conflict in their relationships, so they pair up best with people just as easy-going and relaxed as they are.

Dates: Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, so the themes of com-fort and luxury are the best bet when looking to impress them. Take them to a nice dinner. Anything involving good food is a good idea. Give the Bulls some food – Bulls love food.

Gemini, the Twins <May 22 - June 21>In Love: Gemini is ruled by

quick-witted Mercury, and being with them can give you whiplash – one minute they’re charming the pants off of you (literally), and the next they’re gone (with no hard feelings). They’re always over-analyzing their relation-ships, and their feelings change on a

regular basis because they don’t know what they want. However, once Gemini finds someone that can keep up with them, they’ll be an interesting couple.

Dates: Don’t bore Geminis. Their minds go so fast that they need con-stant intellectual stimulation, even if it’s not all that deep. Being able to have interesting conversations with them is a great start, even if they stop listening halfway through. Try a date involving coffee and a bookstore.

Cancer, the Crab <June 22 - July 23>In Love: Cancers are the nurturers of

the zodiac; however, they’re the ones you least want to piss off. They may jump quickly from relationship to rela-tionship, but they’re actually quite car-ing. Cancer emotions fluctuate with the moon, and sometimes they are fine one day and snippy the next. What these crabs need are lovers who are able to sense (they’re not going to tell you) and deal with their mood swings, as well as the ability to always be faithful - and to know when to leave them alone.

Dates: Movies, whether at home or at the theater, are always an option with Cancers – just make sure it’s a genre they like, or they’ll whine, snark and huff endlessly during the entire thing.

Leo, the Lion <July 24 - Aug. 23>In Love: Leos are easy to fall in love.

They’re suckers for romance, and as the sign of the regal Lion, they’ll love whomever makes them feel like a king or queen. If you can ignore the fact that they have a tendency to be self-absorbed, you’ll have the most fun partner in the world – sunny, with a great sense of humor. The Leonine hon-eymoon stage never dies, unless they get bored and leave.

Dates: Leos love art, so some great dating options are gallery visits or theatre productions. Some Leos really love animals too, so a cute trip to the zoo can also be another way to win their hearts.

Virgo, the Virgin <Aug. 24 - Sept. 23 >In Love: Virgos are cool and serious.

However, the Virgin label is only a moniker – don’t let it fool you! They love a lot, but don’t be surprised if they bring Germ-X into it for some reason. (It’s not you, it’s just your filthy habits.) Virgos won’t be afraid to tell you what you’re doing wrong in love at any giv-en time, but they don’t mean any harm by it – they really want to help.

Dates: Something practical. If you’re spending too much money, they’ll get

suspicious and the whole thing will turn into a budgeting seminar. As long as you’re sincere and dress nicely, they’ll probably enjoy themselves.

Libra, the Scales <Sept. 24 - Oct. 23>In Love: Honesty and open-mind-

edness are what Libras look for in a partner. Libras are the most physical-ly attractive out of all the signs, but they’re usually pretty well-educated too. They’re looking for the same in their partner, which can lead to them being quite picky. They’re social butter-flies, so if you love people, you’ll love a Libra.

Dates: The hottest parties are some of the best dates for them, but if that fails, take them shopping. Make sure to mind your manners while you’re with them, Libras detest sloppiness and rudeness.

Scorpio, the Scorpion <Oct. 24 - Nov. 22>In Love: Scorpios are deeply in-

tense and passionate. Unfortunately, sometimes this leads to uncontrollable jealousy and vengefulness. While they love appearing strong and mysterious, what they really need is kindness and devotion. Hopefully, anyone loving a Scorpion has thick skin, because they love to tease and push their limits. Scorpios are unparalleled at protecting the ones they love.

Dates: Two of the things Scorpions tend to like are sweets (they’re sugar fiends!) and anything taboo and/or sexy. Be creative and find some way to combine those. Good luck.

Sagittarius, the Archer <Nov. 23 - Dec. 21>In Love: Archers aren’t the type to

settle down. Sagittarius are innocent and free, and love fun and adventure. They happily run off if things get too boring or stagnant. They are the sign of travel, so anyone who loves an Archer should be prepared to never stay in one place too long. They wear their hearts on their sleeves, and they keep their feet in their mouth – you’ll always know what they’re thinking, for better or worse.

Dates: Archers love nature, so hiking, horseback riding, or even just a walk through the park will brighten their day. They have the spirit of children, so don’t be afraid to be silly and playful.

Capricorn, the Goat <Dec. 22 - Jan. 20>In Love: You might not even know

when a Capricorn is in love. They’re not very romantic, and they’re usually working too hard to worry about rela-

tionships. However, when a Capricorn confesses love to someone, it’s genuine and unwavering, yet quiet and any-thing but flashy or grandiose. When you need someone though, the Goat will be there. The Goat will always be there.

Dates: The typical dinner and a mov-ie date was invented by Capricorns. They tend to stick to the formula for everything that they do – same food, same theatre (and they’ll probably try to get a discount) and same conversa-tion, over and over again.

Aquarius, the Water Bearer <Jan. 21 - Feb. 19>In Love: Aquarians aren’t emotional

creatures. If they love you, it’s likely to be a purely cerebral affair. They’re individualistic and come off as abrasive and uncaring – even when they are in love. However, they can be possessive and they’re very faithful. This might seem like a paradox, but that’s exact-ly what an Aquarius is. They don’t conform to societal gender roles, and they’re very progressive thinkers, so they won’t do well with anyone look-ing for a ‘traditional’ relationship.

Dates: Aquarius is the sign of knowl-edge – take them to a museum. They’re also very humanitarian, so setting up an evening of charitable volunteer work – as unromantic as that sounds – is actually a pretty good way to charm them.

Pisces, the Fishes <Feb. 20 - March 20>In Love: Pisceans are the most loving

sign in the zodiac. They can be com-pletely swept up by love, or even just the idea of it. Unfortunately, sometimes this leaves them in very bad relation-ships with people who would take ad-vantage of that. They’re always giving – they do anything to make their lovers happy, even going as far as reinventing themselves. They’re always dreaming and waiting for that one person that will complete them.

Dates: 100% pure traditional ro-mance. Make Pisces feel like they’re in a dream – flowers, chocolates, candle-light, and heartfelt poems. Pisceans, be-ing like the fish they are, are also rather attuned to water. If it’s warm enough, take them on a romantic boat ride or a quiet walk by the river.

Jade EagleRepoRteR

February 2014

19visit us at: www.mystician.com

The biggest question we can ask ourselves is “What is real?” This question has been pestering the minds of philosophers for hundreds of years. Now, with the growing intelligence of technology, this question only continues to broaden the mystery of it. In the movie “Her”, Theodore faces the answer to this question when he falls in love with his operating system. Woah, rewind, operating system? You read that right. In the near future we are thought to have an earpiece with connection to the internet as well as an operating system (OS) that develops it’s own personality. As a lonely, writer who is on the final stages of divorce, Theodore decides to buy this new OS1. As a growing internal intelligence Samantha, as his OS prefers to call herself, she is constantly learning and changing with every second. In a tiny second, she can search for and respond to any question asked within that second. Although Theodore falls in love with Samantha and cares for her, you can still see him struggle to accept his feelings about her and the whole subject about dating an OS. As I watched the movie, it was

hard for me to understand how Samantha could even state she loved Theodore, especially when she told him she was in love with 641 other people she is talking to. I think that it is difficult to accept that any sort of operating system can feel for and love a human being. This breaks our whole sense of what is real to us. But maybe it is real and both computer and human love each equally. Who are we to judge if they are happy? Although it is marked as a romance flick, I think the science fiction and the philosophical viewpoint it brings forth is what made the movie interesting and really made you think. I’d give it a 3 out of 5 stars.

The Monuments Men is a novel written by Robert M. Edsel about the people who saved the treasures stolen by Hitler throughout his rise to power. This isn’t a story told of the World War II veterans on the front battles; this is a story of the people who stole stolen art right from under Hitler’s nose. Edsel describes them as a group of unlikely heroes but I always like to think that they have the best stories to tell. About 350 men and women from thirteen different nations were apart of this group, The Monuments Men, or also known as Monuments, Fine Arts, Archives section (MFAA). They saved over thousands of pieces of art from the Third Reich all throughout Europe in a year alone. One thing about the novel that can put people off, is the length. There is a total of 426 pages in the book and Edsel even states in the Authors note that he left out the entire activities in Italy because

there is so much information. Although it is very long, the story flows very well. It isn’t just throwing facts at you and hoping you can retain all that information, it actually shows you the past. Edsel includes pictures of the main people he chose to follow the storyline with as well as letters written during the time. So you aren’t just reading about their journey’s through out Europe but actually seeing it. I think the ability for the reader to visualize what is written is the best part about reading a book. If you can’t imagine this all in your head then the text isn’t doing it’s job to convey it. I would highly recommend this book to readers who love untold stories as well as unlikely heroes. It is great adventure story definitely worth the lengthy read. If you’d rather watch the movie adaption, it hit theaters on Feb. 7 of this year.

Tawnie ReisenauerpeRspective editoR

Movie Review: HerTawnie’s Reviews:

Book review: “Monuments Men”

February 2014

20Bismarck State College Mystician

February 12Agri International

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.(Bismarck Civic Center Arena &

Exhibit Hall)

BSC Basketball vs. United Tribes Technical College

Women: 6 p.m.Men: 8 p.m.

(BSC Armory)

February 14Valentine’s Day

Stand Up Comedy with Tommy Savitt8 p.m.

(Dakota Stage Playhouse)

February 15Stand Up Comedy with Tommy Savitt

10 p.m.(Dakota Stage Playhouse)

February 17Ballroom with a Twist

7:30 p.m.(Bismarck Civic Center)

BSC Basketball vs. Williston State College

Women: 6 p.m.Men: 8 p.m.

(BSC Armory)

February 20BSC 75th Year Jazz Celebration

concert7:30 p.m.

(BSC National Energy Center of Excellence, Bavendick Stateroom)

February 21Men are from Mars, Women are

from Venus Live!7:30 p.m.

(Belle Mehus Auditorium)

Bismarck Tribune Sport Show3 p.m. – 9 p.m.

(Bismarck Civic Center Arena & Exhibit Hall)

The Showing of The Princess Bride

8 p.m. – 10 p.m.(Dakota Stage Playhouse)

February 22Bismarck Tribune Sport Show

10 a.m. – 7 p.m.(Bismarck Civic Center Arena &

Exhibit Hall)

February 23Bismarck Tribune Sport Show

12 p.m. – 5 p.m.(Bismarck Civic Center Arena &

Exhibit Hall)

Paul Williams for Hope Manor7 p.m.

(Belle Mehus Auditorium)

March 1Luke Bryan

7:30 p.m.(Bismarck Civic Center)

March 2Jim Brinkman

3 p.m.(Belle Mehus Auditorium)

Booktalk Discussion “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury

1-3 p.m.BSC Library

BSC Visiting Writers Series,Julie Gard writing workshop

Location and Time: TBA

March 3BSC Visiting Writers Series

Reading7:30 p.m.

Location: TBA

March 7From the Silver Screen:

Choreographer’s Showcase7:30 p.m.

(Belle Mehus Auditorium)

March 8From the Silver Screen:

Choreographer’s Showcase2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

(Belle Mehus Auditorium)

CalendarYour Guide to Find Out

What’s Happening. Why did you chooseto stay in or come to

North Dakota?“I have lived here my whole life, I have always wanted to go to BSC, it’s close to my family, my friends, I just want to be around them. It’s what keeps me going.” -Hayley Deaver

“I’ve lived here my whole life. All of my family is here. I cannot imagine being away from them.” -Kira Bossert

“Financially, it is the best route to choose; for I am a poor college student who can’t afford living on his own, especially out of state.” -Paul Nagel

“It is the most civil society in the United States.” -Marvin Olsen

BSCBS

Check out more stories on our website

www.mystician.com

AthleticsPage 22MacKayla Feeney

Page 22NDSU Bison

Page 23Coach Mueller

Page 23Student Athlete

MacKayla Feeney, a freshman at Bismarck State College, is a point guard on the BSC Lady Mystics basketball team. She has recently won the MonDak player of the week. Read more on page 22. Photo by Sarah Morris

February 2014

22Bismarck State College Mystician

MacKayla Feeney Fills Lead Role

Bison Take it All

Maintaining schoolwork, having a social life, and getting enough sleep are the three hardest aspects for most college students to be able to balance and achieve. Besides all of that for the regular college student, add in full-time job. Not just any kind of full-time job either, but one that consists of physically pushing the body past limits day

after day with one day off a week. This kind of lifestyle is one that the Bismarck State Lady Mystic’s freshman point guard MacKayla Feeney is successfully living. Feeney stays on top of her schoolwork, keeps up with her social life, and even finds time to catch up on sleep. When she isn’t doing any of those, she will most likely be found on the basketball court. Besides playing basketball, the Bismarck High graduate also played soccer for Bismarck State this past fall. “I was in shape for basketball because of soccer. There’s a different type of in-shape between the sports, but soccer gave me an advantage for basketball,” Feeney said. The transition from soccer to basketball wasn’t a difficult one for this double-sport athlete. Since soccer season continues during the beginning of basketball season, Feeney was not able to attend the pre season workouts or beginning practices with the rest of her teammates. With just a couple practices before the first game, she had already obtained a starting as the point guard in her first season of college basketball. “The game is really fast compared to when I played in high school. I think it’s a lot more fun. We have to work so much harder and use our teammates to push us. Plus it takes a lot of work, but that’s why I love the game.” The point guard position was proven well-earned for Feeney as she continues to be a leading

scorer for the Mystics averaging 12 points per game. Feeney can hit a shot beyond the arc without effort, but attacking the rim and feeding post players is her specialty. Driving the lane and going up for contested shots is giving her many opportunities at the free throw line, where Feeney averages of 83 percent. Being in the middle of conference season, every single shot matters. “The conference games are going pretty well. We have won some and have lost some, but we have to focus to keep getting better as the conference keeps playing out. We have to keep improving everyday.” Feeney being such a key player for the Lady Mystics has gotten some recognition. She has recently been awarded the Mon-Dak Player of the Week for the Montana-North Dakota conference. This is a large honor voted from the conference coaches and given out to the player who has shown great leadership and skills on the court, and Feeney is a well-deserved recipient. “I was pretty surprised when I first found out about being the Mon-Dak Player of the Week. It was a great honor to receive. Basketball is such a team sport, though. It takes teamwork to be successful, so I definitely think my teammates have a lot to do with this award.” The Lady Mystics are currently 3-3 in the conference games with the loss over Wahpeton on Feb. 6. The game prior to that was a win against Bottineau. Feeney scored 22 points against the Lady Jacks

with 11 of them being free throws. Though this number may sound impressive, her personal record is held at 25 points which she scored against Jamestown JV Dec. 7. Though Feeney’s stat line is one to be proud of, there is still work to be done for the rest of the season. “Our team really need to focus on some main things. We need to cut down on turnovers which is a big key and to not take off plays on the defensive end,” Feeney said. “We have to just keep getting better every game before tournament time starts. If we do these things before tournament time I really do believe we will be a successful team.”

Kaitlyn OlsonatHletics editoR

The North Dakota State University Bison football team won its third straight Division 1-AA title by defeating Towson University by a final score of 35 to 7 in Frisco, Texas on Jan. 4. The Bison had everything going well during this game. Their offense put up plenty of points, and they dominated Towson State the entire football game. Gina Bucholtz, the development manager at Bismarck State College, also a graduate of NDSU, was very enthusiastic about the Bison victory. “I thought it was spectacular,

long time coming, [and] a lot of work, but they pulled it off” Bucholtz said. 19,802 were people in attendance, including many of the fans who made the trip from North Dakota to Texas. There were many people watching at home as well, including Buchholtz “Absolutely couldn’t tear me away,” Bucholtz said. “Me and my kids watched.” Another graduate of NDSU of the early 90s, Dean Bellin, Assistant Professor of Technical Theatre at BSC, remembers some of his early memories of Bison football. “When I got to NDSU, Bison

football was really strong,” Bellin said. “I went to every home game, and I remember standing in line. This was back before the Fargodome at Dakota Field, and it was really cold standing in line waiting for games. No matter how cold it was, there was still hundreds of people lined up to watch the games.” The fan base at NDSU continues to grow in large numbers each and every year, with many fans showing up like never before. “Even back then the games were not nearly as big as they are now– there were maybe 10,000 people showing up at Dakota Field,” Bellin said. “Now there is up to 20,000

people; it’s just nuts ”. Next year could be a year of transition for the Bison. Coach Craig Bohl will be leaving to coach Wyoming, and Chris Klieman will be taking over for him. Also with 23 seniors graduating, this could provide a roadblock to another championship. Bellin said he still thinks they can be a good team going forward. “I think there is still a lot of talent there and I think they have done a great job of recruiting,” Bellin said. “I’m not expecting a national championship again, but I think they can still be strong and make the playoffs”.

By Alex StavigRepoRteR

MacKayla Feeney dribbles the ball up the court. Photo by Sarah Morris

Feeney plays defense against a Lake Region player. Photo by Sarah Morris

February 2014

23visit us at: www.mystician.com

First Year Coach Finds Groove

My name is Tanner

Purintun. I’m from Linton, N.D. and I play basketball for Bismarck State College.

On Jan. 23, I was on a bus ride home from Williston, N.D. trying to figure out what to write an article on. As I sat in my seat, I looked at my phone to see what

time it was. The clock on my phone said 1 a.m. All I could think about was how badly I didn’t want to write this article or wake up in the morning and go to class

Then it hit me! I decided to write about what it is like to be a student athlete at the college level.

I will be completely honest with you, being a student athlete isn’t all sunshine and daisies. It is pretty much a full time job. Our basketball season doesn’t officially start until Oct. 1. However, preseason starts the first week of school.

From the beginning of school to Oct. 1, our weekly schedule consisted of lifting three days a week at 6:30 a.m., conditioning two days a week, individual workouts twice a week, and two/three open gyms a week. Now add in 15-21 credits of classes and we’ve got a rough estimate of what a student athlete’s schedule

looks like. After all my classes and

workouts are finished I finally get to go home and relax. Just kidding! I’ve got homework to do. Even though I’m exhausted and trying to fight closing my eyelids, homework needs to get done because I’m a student before an athlete.

That’s what the preseason looked like. Once the season started, things changed a little bit. We now have practice every day with the exception of game days in which we most likely will have a shoot around earlier in the day. We also lift twice a week and watch film the day after games. Away games get to be a struggle at times. Most of the teams in our conference are about a 3-4 hour drive away from Bismarck, so we often have to leave early from school. This can be a burden sometimes because we have

to miss class. However, we are expected to stay on top of all of our school work and communicate with our teachers whenever we will be absent. I will say this, the teachers at BSC are very understanding of our situation and do their very best to accommodate us. For that, I say thank you! All of us student athletes greatly appreciate it. With that being said, would nap time be too much to ask for?

The majority of this article has been about the grind of being a student athlete. Part of the reason for that might be because I’m running on very minimal sleep right now and am struggling to keep my eyelids from closing as I type this.

However, being a student athlete is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences of my life. Although the bus rides get to be extremely long, and the

workouts can be exhausting, I would never trade any of it. The memories we create while being a part of a team stay with us forever and shape us into the people we are today. The memories are not the only perk of being a college athlete.

As a college athlete, we are put in a place of influence. I personally enjoy being in that place. It holds me to a high standard. There are always people watching; there is always a little kid that wants to grow up to be just like you, and there are always parents praying for good role models for their kids. Knowing that I could impact someone’s life just because I play basketball is enough reward for me. These perks, as well as the pure enjoyment of playing the game are worth every second of being a student athlete.

College is often a period of time for students to learn and adjust to being in different surroundings. The Bismarck State men’s basketball coach is in a similar position. Joe Mueller, a Bismarck native, is in his first year as a head coach at the collegian level. Mueller previously was the head boy’s basketball coach at Saint Mary’s Central High School, a class “A” school in Bismarck, North Dakota. Although Mueller is in his first year as a college head coach, his transition from the high school level has been quite smooth.

“It’s never quite what you expect. There have been some ups and downs but I’m enjoying the transition and the challenge. I’ve definitely learned a lot.” Mueller said. “The Xs and Os haven’t been the biggest things. It’s been all the other stuff that changes at this level, the recruiting, and all the off-the-court stuff.”

Being a head coach at the college

level has been a new experience for Mueller. However, Bismarck State is a familiar place to the 2013 North Dakota Class “A” basketball coach of the year. Mueller attended BSC in 1998 and 1999 where he competed in both basketball and baseball.

“It’s nice being back at BSC. The whole athletic department is great. Buster Gillis and everybody else around me has made the transition a lot easier.” Mueller said

Mueller, who has a degree in business education and a minor in marketing education, taught and coached at SMCHS from 2002-2013. He said even though he was excited to be the Mystic’s head men’s basketball coach, it was still difficult to leave his previous job.

“It was tough to leave Saint Mary’s. I went to high school there¬; it was my first job, and it’s just always been a big part of my life. I developed a lot of great relationships so it was hard to leave my friends and colleagues, especially the players and

students” Mueller said. “At the same time, I’m still in Bismarck so it’s not like I’ve left them for good.”

Mueller has been quick to build those same types of relationships at BSC.

“He knows his stuff but I think the big thing is he has a good relationship with all the players,” said BSC guard Justin McCloud, a sophomore from Bottineau. “He’s business on the court but off the court he’s a fun guy that likes to joke around.”

The Mystics are currently 13-10 and are closing out the season. They have three games left before starting postseason play. Mueller is hoping to finish the season strong.

“We need to keep progressing. We had some downs but I think we’re on our upswing. There are things that we need to clean up on both ends of the floor.” Mueller said. “I like the attitude of our guys. Sometimes it gets hard in January and February because it gets long but we just have to stay motivated and defend our home

court. If we do that I think we’ll put ourselves in a good position at the end of the season.”

By Tanner PurintunRepoRteR

The Life of a Collegiate Athlete

Tanner PurintunRepoRteR

Submitted photo

Joe Mueller is the BSC men’s basketball coach. Submitted photo