VERIFY THIS!

Financial Aid Auditing, Who, What, and Why?

Every year millions of students fill out the federal application for financial student aid, and every year at least 30 percent of these unsuspecting students are asked to turn By Alea Logan in more informaStaff Writer tion than they bargained for. This is known as auditing or, more commonly, verification. Many students get selected every year for this process and still many more do not even know that it exists. Why do some of the same students get chosen every year for this process? Is the selection criteria fair, or even nescessary? The MSU-Billings financial aid website states: Approximately 30% of students are selected for a verification/audit process that requires them to send additional documents. An award cannot be made until these documents are received and reviewed. These students are not randomly chosen, as is the general misconception. Instead there are many reasons why a student could be chosen for verification by the financial aid office. The reason is that there was some sort of change/correction made to the information on their original FAFSA. If there are any corrections made by the student after the FAFSA form has been submitted the first time, then he or she is automatically selected for the verification process. Another reason the student may be selected for verification is that his or her renewal FAFSA had a significant change on it from the year before. Whether cial aid office, W-2s, federal income tax forms, marriage licenses, etc. These forms usually need to be signed by the student and/ or parents. After the student has turned in these forms, the financial aid officer assigned to his or her case verifies all of the information in question. If the information does not match, the student is notified and corrections are made. Once all of the information has been verified and is correct, the financial aid office will send out an award letter to the student. If all goes well, the award letter is usually sent within two weeks of final verification. The verification process was put in place in order to catch mistakes made in the financial aid application process and stop any fraudulent activity. It is not a random process, but a precise one that follows definite criteria for selection. It is nescessary to protect both the government and the student, though it can sometimes be a tedious process for both parties. Understanding what it is, how it works and the reasons behind it, however, can help make it less painful for everyone involved.

Volume 75

Issue 9

March 15, 2004

The Retort Needs New Editor-in-Chief for 2004-05

The Retort, the student newspaper at MSU-Billings, has opened the application process for the 2004-05 Editor-inChief position. This position will be opening up as of May 1, 2004. The applicant can start by picking up an Editor-in-Chief application fromAssociated Students of MSU-Billings in SUB 213 on the second floor of the Student Union Building. The qualifications include previous experience with a newspaper, and with previous experience as an editor or manager or contributing editor of a high school, college or hometown newspaper, tabloid or magazine. The Retort editor must have some experience with printing programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Pagemaker, and Illustrator ,and have a basic understanding of Microsoft Office,Outlook, and also be able to assist the staff with these programs. The Retort editor should have experience in these qualifications as well as experience in management and budgeting; however, training will be available. Students who are enrolled or plan to be enrolled for six credits or more in the 2004-05 school year are qualified to apply. Pick up an application and return it to SUB 213 by March 15, 2004. An interview process will follow per regulations by the ASMSU-B Publications board.

graphic by Richard Castillo or not a change is significant is determined by the financial aid officer who is reviewing the file. For example, a change in household size of more than two people could be considered significant. A change in the marital status of the student or the parents is considered reason enough to subject a student to verification. A significant increase or decrease in income could also trigger the verification process. After the financial aid department at a school has determined all of the students who need to be audited, they check the percentages. If the school is still under the required 30 percent, then they will randomly select students to be processed, but most of the students selected are actually selected for a reason. This may explain why some students have to go through this process year after year. The process of verification can be easy or painful, depending on the accuracy of the original FAFSA and the type of forms requested. The financial aid office usually requests different types of forms to prove the information on a FAFSA is accurate. The forms include, but are not limited to: a verification form actually sent out by the finan-

Montana State University is Being Sued Pg. 6

Gradutation: Where, When, How and Why Does it Cost More $ Pg. 3

Now Hiring! Check Out Our Website www.msubillings.edu/retort

Rant & Rave: Editors Opinion

Criticism Goes Both Ways

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1500 University Drive SUB 225 Billings, MT 59101 Business & Newsroom: 657-2194 Fax: 657-2191 e-mail: retort@msubillings.edu

Editors and Staff

Janna Huhtala Amy Whittle Richard Castillo Jed Barton Betsy Harris Jennifer Fenton Jason Lillie Adam Wickens VACANT Dan Hansen Jessalyn Remington Evelyn Irmen Aric Weber Linsey Lindgren Becky Butcher Brett Harrison Alea Logan Michael Redstone Matt Beard Brook Madison Jeremy Seidlitz Jesse Kester Nancy Swanson Editor-in-Chief Business/Ad Manager Layout/Design Editor Sports Editor News Editor A&E Editor Photo Editor Copy Editor Creativity Editor Cartoonist Reporter Reporter Columnist Columnist Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer D.C. Correspondent Graduate Consultant Advisor

Guidelines & Policies The Retort encourages the submission of letters to the Editor. Letters must be under 250 words in length and include name, signature, and phone number. The Retort reserves the right to edit for space and possible libel. Letters should deal with subject matter relevant to the students, faculty, and staff of MSU-Billings. The Retort is published every other Tuesday. Letters must be submitted by the Friday after the most recent issue date. The Publications Board of ASMSU-B advises The Retort, leaving content decisions to the editors. Opinions expressed in The Retort are not necessarily those of its members, the university, students, student government, state government, or federal government.

with me. You are too busy. Family: You are never home. You dont appreciate us. There are three kinds of critics. The first kind is the considerate critic; he or she finds ways to indirectly comment on an idea or project that their target is in charge of without coming off as arrogant or rude. The second kind of critic is the constructive critic; he or she only shares criticism when it is asked of them or when the critic believes that what their target is doing is harming someone or something. By Both of these critics take credit for their Janna Huhtala criticism and never shy away from their Editor-in-Chief true feelings. They dish out the needed Everyones a critic, at least thats comments with the intent to help or assist what I have learned in my own life. Right a person or product.Among these famnow, as a college student, it seems that ily, peers, co-workers, and other random critics are watching our every move be- people there is that one last critic who is cause we are in an enclosed space and intolerable. This critic always has a lot to say forced to spend tons of time together. However, college is not the only place but very rarely takes the initiative to acthat critics can be found; these truth-tell- tually apply his or her ideas to a real life ing little buggers can be found in almost situation. The culprit does his or her criticism in a hateful and uncouth manner any aspect of life. Examples are: Doctors: Youre too fat for your that rarely makes a mark or has any importance. These detractors are the worst pregnancy. Exercise more. Dentists: Your teeth are too of all critics because they can voice their crooked. I recommend braces for four opinion but do not have the guts to stick their name to their product. Their creyears. Teachers: You need to study ation is the wide-spread amount of ideas harder for health or you will never get and nonsense dribble, and the critic spills it freely. They often spout off at the into college. Parents: Do you really need to mouth or attack their target without conspend $400 on that? You need to man- sideration or compassion for the person who they criticize. Rarely is this critic age your money better. Other relatives: You never come concerned about anyone but him or herself, and they accomplish nothing but visit me; you are so inconsiderate. Classmates: That color doesnt hurting peoples feelings. Of these critics, I ask one simple look good on you; youre not smart enough, youre too smart; you dont have thing: If it is something that you truly the right car, the right clothes, the right believe in, then you better damn well take credit for your thoughts or ideas. family name. Move. So after you have successfully Critics are abundant in life, and to be a molded yourself to all of these critical journalist you have to have a thick skin. As writers, we adjustments, are very critiyou leave your cal of things hometown, or at that happen on least move on to campus, but if college or cawe write about reer. Suddenly it for our pubthe critics multilication, we atply faster than tach our name two rabbits in a to it. We find cage. Now inboth sides of stead of the conthe story, or at densed amount least ask for of people that do constructive know who you criticism about are, you are bea topic. We ing criticized by voice some of people who the most opbarely know posed opinions your name. found in naProfesture, but we alsors: You dont ways attach have a very large our name to vocabulary. Fix our thoughts that. and ideas. I am Advisors: Graphic by Janna Huhtala a firm believer You dont have a large enough course load and you need in the idea of keeping hurtful and unto take higher level courses. I have helpful criticism to myself, but if I do signed you up for Calc 201 and Physics have something to say, I attach my name of Atoms and Molecules for Geniuses. and face to the product I dish out. Take Classmates: You talk too much; some responsibility for what you believe, you dont talk enough; you are too and if you cant say something nice, dont say anything at all. Its called snotty; or you are not snotty enough. Roommates: You never pay the downward communication, and the only bills; you never clean the house; and thing you are constructing is the bitter hate inside yourself. youre never home! Peace out. Friends: You never spend time

Havent We Paid Enough?

Imagine yourself as a senior in your last semester of college. Just think you have only one semester left of cramming for exams, staying up all night frantically writing essays that By should have Jessalyn Remington been started Reporter months ago, and filling out financial aid and other redundant applications. Then, you find out that there is yet another application to be filled out and another fee to pay. Yes, thats right. Every year graduating seniors are required to pay a $50 fee in order to graduate. Students graduating in spring 2004 must have filled out the graduation application and returned it to the office of admissions and records in McMullen Hall by Feb. 11. In addition to the application, they had to pay the fee which has raised $10 since the 20022003 graduation year. The application must be signed and completed in order to be evaluated for graduation. Any late applications will be evaluated the following year, and the student will have to wait to graduate. According to Marilyn Stone, graduation clerk in admissions and records, the fee will help accommodate the many costs associated with graduation and the graduation ceremony. Diplomas and diploma covers are presented to everyone and, therefore, affect everyone who intends to graduate. Part of the fee will go to pay the person who evaluates the applications. However, the fee will also help to cover the cost of renting the Metra for the commencement ceremony, in which some graduates may choose not to participate. The commencement ceremony will take place at MetraPark on Saturday, May 1, at 10 a.m. Students are not required to take part in the ceremony,

graphic by Richard Castillo but still must pay the full $50 fee. Some students are upset that the fee was not included with the rest of their fees at the beginning of the semester. That way, student loans and financial aid could cover the cost. However, some students are unsure whether or not they will graduate until closer to the end of the semester, so the fee is separate. Remember not to get too excited for your final semester, undergraduates, because it is expected that this fee will continue to rise in future years due to inflation. Look at it this way: Whats $50 in comparison to the average $2,250 students spend on tuition alone here each semester? On Saturday, May 1, MSU-B will hold graduation ceremonies for all graduating seniors and graduate students at MetraPark. The march, kicking off the ceremonies, will begin By Brett Harrison at 10 a.m..., so Staff Writer graduates should plan to be at the Metra by 9 a.m. Family and friends should plan to arrive early as well to get a good seat and view of their darling as he or she crosses the stage. Hopefully all those who want to graduate in May already filled out the application, had their advisor sign it, paid the $50 non-refundable graduation fee, and turned in the application, because it was due Feb. 11. Yes, all graduates are required to wear a cap, gown, and tassel, which can be purchased at Beezers Book Store. Prices are $22 for those attaining a bachelors degree and $42 for masters students. Masters students get to pay an extra $20 for the hood. Beezers will have them in stock starting March 1. The book store switched companies that supply the cap and gowns because of quality. Prices are about the same as they were before, but the gowns should be much nicer and of higher in quality. When the cap, gown, and tassel are purchased, an information sheet comes with them containing instructions on where graduates will meet, line up, and walk. There will also be a name card for graduates to fill out and hand to the announcer as they walk across the stage to receive their diplomas. According to tradition, the tassel is moved to the left side of the cap after the graduate is handed the degree. A reception and luncheon for all graduates and their guests will be held on the university campus following the ceremonies.

Graduation: Are We There Yet?

Courtesy of KRT Campus; A student smiles on graduation day, but at what price? Read on...

Career Fair: Getting Ahead

About 500 MSU-Billings students took the opportunity to spend the afternoon of Feb. 19 introducing themselves to possible emBy Jed Barton ployers. The offices of career Sports Editor services of MSU-Billings and Rocky Mountain College came together to hold a Career Fitness Fair in the ballroom of the MSU-B Student Union Building. The fair, now in its seventh year, attracted 53 different government agencies, non-profit organizations, and businesses that employ both recent graduates and current students in a wide variety of fields. These fields included retail sales, accounting, law enforcement, health care, environmental science, public relations and aviation. Overall, the companies and agencies involved were impressed with the level of attention the students paid to what they had to offer. For the last few years this fair has helped us find good interns and employees, said Paul McLean, coordinator of internships for the Billings office of the Federal Probation Office. A first time business was also pleased with the result of the career fair.

Photography by Jason Lillie--- An FBI Recruiter explains the ins and outs of the business to a MSU-Billings Student at the Career Fair. We have been to career fairs at Missoula and other schools in the region and found this one to be a good experience in terms of the number of interested people we have talked to, said Tanya Robinson, a management trainee recruiter for clothing retailer, the Buckle. Of course, for some employers helping potential applicants decide whether that work environment would be right for them is just as important as putting names on a contact list. We get a lot of people who are interested in being commissioned officers in the Corps, said a Marine officer recruiter, but after talking to us about what Platoon Leaders School and active duty are like, they decide not to join up. This informed decision taken this early in the process often saves both the Marines and the students a lot of time and potential aggravation. Planning is already underway for the eighth annual Career Fitness Fair to be held during the spring semester of 2005. For more information or to register your business for the event, visit the career services website at www.msubillings.edu/careers or call 657-2168.

C r a n k Ya n ke r s B e wa r e
Prank Callers are Getting More Than They Bargained For
P r a n k calls sometimes seem to be part of a romanticized image of adolescent rebelliousness. The concept of calling and mocking an By individual from Adam Wickens a remote location and sufferCopy Editor ing no consequences has greatly appealed to devious pranksters among us for years. While this may be great fun for the person making the call, it often leaves the victim feeling aggravated or even frightened. What many victims of prank calling do not know is that there is a state law against such actions here in Montana called the Privacy in Communications Act. Originally passed in 1973, this law makes many prank calling activities a misdemeanor offense. The law is very comprehensive and encompasses many activities. Subsection (a) outlines the most commonly violated restrictions of the law. According to this subsection, it is illegal to use a telephone to call a person names, swear at him or her, make sexual suggestions, or threaten to harm that person. It is also important to remember the other two subsections of the law. illegal to record conversations without the consent of the other person. A person found in violation of privacy of communications can be fined up to $500 for the first offense and spend up to six months in jail. The punishment gets stiffer after repeat offenses; Privacy in Communications the third ofA person commits the offense of violating privacy of comfense is punishmunications if the person knowingly or purposely able by a fine of (a) with the purpose to terrify, intimidate, threaten, up to $10,000, harass, annoy, or offend, communicates with a person by up to five years electronic communication and uses obscene, lewd, or in prison, or profane language, suggests a lewd and lascivious act, or both. threatens to inflict injury or physical harm to the person Jenny or the property of the person. The use of obscene, lewd, Sawicki, a or profane language or the making of a threat or lewd or former MSU-B lascivious suggestions is prima facie evidence of an instudent, retent to terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, annoy, or ofcently received fend. the very kind of (b) Uses an electronic communication to attempt to phone call that extort money or any other thing of value from a person makes this law or to disturb by repeated communications the peace, quiet, n e c e s s a r y. or right of privacy of person at the place where the comSawicki was munications are received; sleeping in her (c) Records or causes to be recorded a conversahome one night tion by use of a hidden electronic or mechanical device in February that reproduces human communication without the when the phone knowledge of all parties to the conversation. rang at 4 a.m. 2003 Montana Legal Guide I got up to answer the phone, says Subsection (b) states that it is illegal to Sawicki, because I thought it might be repeatedly disturb people for no reason an important family matter. She did not and it is also illegal to extort money or recognize the number displayed on the other things from people over the phone. caller ID but answered anyway. The Subsection (c) covers the fact that it is man on the other end was clearly intoxicated, says Sawicki. She asked the caller who he was and he refused to answer. When she asked where he was he said he was closer than you think. The only other person in the house was Sawickis female roommate, so she called the police immediately. I was really afraid, says Sawicki. The whole thing was scary and it left us pretty shaken up. If you feel that you have had your privacy in communication violated, you should write down the time and date of the call, as well as the phone number if you have caller ID. You should also write down what the person said and record any type of background noise that could serve as a clue about the persons identity or location. Then you should immediately contact the campus police if you live on campus or the Billings police if you live off campus.

graphic by Richard Castillo

After taking a year off to raise money, the MSU-B InterTribal Indian Club is back in full force to present its 36 th annual powwow at the Metra Park Expo Center. By Michael RedstoneThe Indian Club has been workStaff Writer ing hard to raise money for the past two years. MSU-B has the largest intercollegiate powwow in the Northwest. It is all happening on Friday and Saturday, March 26-27, with grand entries starting on Friday at 7p.m. On Saturday there will be two grand entries, one of which will start at 12 p.m. and will end at 4 p.m. The next session will start that night at around 6 p.m. There will be contest categories along with dance specials. The Indian Club advisor, Quentin Gilham, says that this is a time for celebration, a time for everyone to come and share the Indian Culture. Gilham also says that the Indian Club has been working very hard to put on this powwow. The Club will be charging admission, $12 for

MSU-Billings Inter-Tribal Indian Club Presents the 36th Annual MSU-B Powwow

a weekend pass, $6 for a session. Senior citizens will get a discount and tiny tots get in free. MSU-B students get in free also when they show their current student IDs. The MSU-B powwow promises to be eventful and over 15 drum groups are expected to attend this years event. The host drum will be Eagle Whistle, and the drum groups will be paid each day. There will be dance contests for men and women, as well as the teens and tiny tots. There will also be a womens fancy special in honor of Althea James, the vice

Photo provided by Quentin Gilham--- The Grand Entry at a previous MSU-B powwow. Indian dancers dance in traditional clothing. The whipman is Kasey Nicholson of Bozeman Mont., the head male dancer is Tommy Christian of Ft. Peck, Mont., if you would like good seats, show up early. Expect good food, good friends, and great dancing and celebrating. Over 4,000 people are expected to attend this powwow, so volunteers will be needed so help set up the night before and to help put away chairs when the night is over. Some students can get extra credit from their classes if they come and help out at the powwow. Everyone is welcome. For more information, please visit the InterTribal Indian Club at www.msubillings.edu/itic. If you would like to volunteer, please call 657-2561 or Indian Club president Cora Chandler 670-1271. Remember that this is the MSU-B powwow and that makes it your powwow. So come out and support the Inter-Tribal Indian Club!

This is a time for celebration and a time for everyone to come and share the Indian Culture. Indian Club Advisor: Quentin Gilham
president of the Indian Club. Other specials that will be featured: the push dance, mens chicken dance, womens all categories in honor of Cora Chandler, president of the Indian Club, teen girls jingle, sponsored by the Blue Eyes Yarlott family, and many others. The Master(s) of Cermonies will be Lloyd Topsky and Corky Old Horn. The arena director is Bill Runs Above. the head female dancer is Sue Lynn Brown of Billings, Mont., and the MSUB princess is Althea James, of Shonto, Ariz., the head young lady dancer is Blue Eyes Yarlott, and the head young male dancer is Dezmond Rides Horse. All of these people were chosen by the Indian Club because of their experience and knowledge of powwows. Good seating is on a first come, first served basis. So

Montana Business Incubator in Partnership with MSU-B

companies who utilize incubator organizations have a higher rate of survival. There are three incubators in Montana: Tech Ranch in Bozeman, Montec in Missoula, and MBI in Billings. MBI has been on campus since August of 2001 and has two full-time and two part-time employees. All three organizations are closely related to the universities. Incubator programs offer support services such as showing companies how to get grants and become investment ready, business counseling, mentoring, administrative assistance, and even office use. Many people want to start their own business and just dont know how. MBI helps entrepreneurs with business plans, action plans, and setting realistic goals. As Stoltenberg says, Many people give themselves away too cheap. They want to undercut the other guy, but they dont have a plan, and they end up not making money because of it. MBI helps companies avoid that kind of scenario. MBI also helps people obtain patents for inventions and advises them on the pros and cons of investing. Currently there are ten companies in the MBI program which bring in a yearly revenue of $2.6 million. One company, Kids Stuff Consignment, LLC, offers used childrens apparel during a twice-annual event. MBI helped them develop their own bar code system so they could be more organized. According to Stoltenberg, companies usually stay with the program for two to three years until they get their feet solid on the ground. It costs $150 a month to be in the program and MBI also takes a 1 percent equity stake in the company. Although Stoltenberg denies any particular political persuasion, he says he has to commend Senator Conrad Burns for bringing money into Montana. In 1999 Burns was responsible for getting a $900,000 grant from NASA to help start the incubator program. As Stoltenberg says, Burns brought money into this state, fostering research and development and promoting our economy. Incubator programs enjoy being connected to universities because they feel its a way to link higher education to the business community and assist with economic growth. The schools house the programs and faculty members often participate in technological research. As executive director Stoltenberg says, Incubator programs want to create more jobs and more wealth in their communities. They want to help people turn their dreams to reality.
Montana Business Incubator Client Services -MBI Advisory Council and Network Access to professional services and mentoring via our advisory council. -Office and Infrastructure Support MBI clients have access to low-cost shared office space, furnished complete with telephone, fax, copy, internet, conference room, and pooled secretarial services. -Business Services MBI clients have access to a variety of business services from a number of affiliate sources. -Business Capital Sources The MBI offers several programs for capital funding available to incubator clients. -Federal Technology Transfer via MBI and TechLink The MBI has a TechLink Project Manager on staff, specifically assigned to ensure that all MBI clients receive the very best in technology matching and technology transfer opportunities available from NASA. -Technology Business Services and Education Network The MBI has established relationships with a number of business related programs associated with educational institutions in Billings. *Techlink, based in Bozeman, Mont. is a technology transfer center with the mission of providing technology transfer services to an eight state region in the west.

By Betsy Harris News Editor

The Montana Business Incubator is a non-profit organization which receives it s primary funding from NASA, and is managed by a partnership between the Big Sky Economic Development Authority and MSU-B. MBI provides support to emerging technology businesses with an innovative and entrepreneurial approach. There are 800 organizations like MBI around the United States. They were first started in 1980, and according to Dave Stoltenberg, the executive director of MBI, studies show that

MSU-Billings: Sued for Racial Discrimination

But is this lawsuit really what it sounds like?
Mountain States Legal Foundation, according to their website at www.mountainstateslegal.org, states, MLSF is a nonprofit, By Dan Hansen public interest legal center Cartoonist dedicated to individual liberty, the right to own and use property, limited and ethical government and the free enterprise system. This is the agency that has filed a law suit against MSU for violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VI section 601 states, No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. Montana State University participates in the Big Horn Teacher Projects, which are designed to increase the number of certified American Indian teachers on the Crow Reservation. Through one of four available programs, American Indian students can receive financial help in areas such as tuition, book costs, fees, monthly stipends, money for support of dependant children, and in some cases individualized tutoring and paid Praxis exams, a teacher certification examination. MSLF is basing their case on the fact that Big Horn Teacher Projects provides funding specifically to American Indian students, and does not extend the same opportunity to any other nationality. With only Title VI in mind, this would be correct. However, the United States government has a prior obligation to American Indian nations that precedes and supersedes the Civil Rights Act. Collectively, the reservations contained within the United
graphic by Richard Castillo

dian. However, because of their sovereignty and freedom to enact their own legislature, American Indian nations have federally supported rights to determine who is accepted into any tribe. The money provided by BHTP is not free money to those who wish to attend college from the Crow reservation. There are strict requirements for the participants, and payback obligations. The money is treated no different than a loan. The source of the money is federal. It is given

States are considered sovereign nations. The federal assistance extended to the reservations is done so under the agreement of legislature involving American Indians as a sovereign nation, and not on the basis of race. To become an official member of a tribe one must fulfill the requirement set by that tribe, which is to be American In-

to the university to implement assistance programs, and paid back, along with an interest rate, like any other loan. The program is designed based on a nation and not a race. The press release from MSLF states, Although the Supreme Court recently upheld the University of Michigans use of race as one of the many factors of admission, the letter points out, Montana State

uses race or ethnicity as an absolute prerequisite. This statement mentions race and ethnicity, not nationality, which BHTP are dedicated to. Other race specific organizations that provide college money to specific groups, the most popular being the United Negro College Fund, are funded by private organizations or persons, not federal. Private agencies have a different set of regulations than that of the U.S. government in this matter. The Big Horn Teacher Projects totaled over $5 million in financial assistance. This provided education to 90 students to achieve the requirements to be certified teachers, who then return to the Crow Reservation. The education of American Indians is an asset to our state in terms of improving our communities in rural areas which can only lead to economic growth and development to our state says Reno Charette, project director for the BHTP. The heart of the debate for MSLF emerges from the American Indians exclusion from the Civil Rights Act and MSUs participation in that exclusion. Given the fact that roughly 50 percent of Montanas American Indians live off of the reservation, and that education programs are insufficient to meet the tribes needs, the Big Horn Teacher Projects are a means to bring the reservation up to national standards. Whether or not it is wrong or right is for the Supreme Court to decide.

Residential Network: What is it & Why Should I Care?

MSUB provides a service for the dorms that allows students access to the Internet from their rooms. Before the installation of the By Michael Redstoner e s i d e n t i a l network Staff Writer known as ResNet, students with their own computers had to pay a fee for a cable that was attached through the phone line, or they had to go downstairs to the computer labs if they wanted internet access. With ResNet students are allowed Internet access without tying up their phone lines. First, what is ResNet? It is a convenient network that allows people in the dorms use of the internet for educational, instructional, and entertainment purposes. It connects every computer in the dorms up to a network. Students are charged with a $65 fee that is added to their housing charges. It doesnt matter if a student doesnt own a computer, he/she are still charged for ResNet. Students sign a policy for the network when they first move into the dorms. One of the bigger advantages of the network is that the Internet service is provided through the campus. This means students dont have to go elsewhere to find an Internet provider. Last year, students who wanted the Internet had to go out, find a provider, pay the bill themselves. With ResNet the bill is already in the students housing fees, and the student doesnt have to worry. The service also provides three residential technology assistants who are on call if anything goes wrong with the network. There are two ports in every dorm room, allowing two different students Internet access. The RTAs also police the network, meaning that if a student is doing something they shouldnt on their computer, the technicians will shut the computer down until they can talk with the student. Kathy McIssac, the director of housing and residential life, says that it has been a success so far. They had virus problems at first, but those were taken care of. They have had minimal problems so far. When your computer is attached to a network, chances are higher for your computer to catch a virus? The answer is no, because before a student can be hooked to the network, the RTAs have to scan the students computer for any viruses. When the student is attached to the network and their computer gets a virus, the RTAs will find it because they are always policing the network. If students have a problem, all they have to do is fill out a form and turn it in at the front desk of their dorm. An RTA will help them as soon as he or she can. (The residential network seems to be a good addition to living on campus.) If you have any more questions about the residential network please call the housing office at 657-2333.

Can Sex Really Be Safe?: A Series on Safe Sex

Yo u v e heard all of the cautions, the horror stories, and the moral arguments about sex and the consequences that go with it. Sexual freedom is becoming By Jessalyn Remington more and more accepted in sociReporter ety, but less safe as sexually transmitted diseases become greater risks. There is also the controversial issue of sex education in schools. Beginning in junior high school, children are taught about safe sex. Supporters of the topic say that children will eventually be exposed to sex, and that teaching them how to protect themselves is better than no sex education at all. This argument makes sense, but they forget to mention that each method of protection has its faults. Who are we to tell our children that there is such thing as safe sex? However, with the proper knowledge and preparation, individuals can substantially reduce the risk of becoming pregnant. College classes, exams, and work are enough to worry about without an unplanned pregnancy to add to the load, but where can you go to get your questions answered? Organizations such as Planned Parenthood and MSU-B Health Services can provide individuals

with the necessary tools at affordable prices. Sexually transmitted diseases are much harder to protect yourself against. Condoms offer minimal protection against most of these diseases. The best defense a person can have against them is knowledge. Vaccinations are offered to prevent some common STDs, and anonymous testing promptly diagnoses the diseases so that treatment can be administered. It is important to remember that

no method of contraception or protection from STDs is 100 percent effective, and the risk is always there. If thats a risk youre willing to take, you owe it to yourself to make sure that you dont become a statistic. Why risk letting a few moments of pleasure destroy your future? If youve made the choice to become sexually active, make an investment in your future and become more knowledgeable about contraceptives and protection against STDs.

This will be a fourpart series... Look for, Can Sex Really Be Safe?: Contraceptive Methods in the next issue of the Retort.

Between the Sheets: Does Sex Change Relationships? (Opinion)

Sexit is everywhere in todays society. It is necessary and instinctive for the survival of the human race, but By Evelyn Irmen more than that, it can be an expresReporter sion of one persons devotion and emotional attachment for another. Sex is commonly called making love, but how can you make love without being in love? The former ideals By and moral stanJessalyn Remington dards about sex Reporter and marriage are often taken for granted as it becomes more and more accepted in society. Many people go into relationships with the intentions of waiting until marriage or at least until they are in love before becoming sexually active. However, peer pressure and a lack of selfcontrol make this a difficult task. In a recent survey of 50 MSU-B students, only 28 percent of those surveyed said that they were virgins. When, we might ask, is the right time to take a relationship to a sexual level? The answer to this question is dependent on the individuals, their relationship, and their beliefs and morals. However, there are a few things that should be kept in mind when making this important decision. Eighty-three percent of those surveyed who have had a sexual relationship believe that sex changed their relationship in some way. Remember when making that choice, that it could cause your relationship to change for the better or the worse. Be sure that you and your partner are prepared for that risk. Most people surveyed felt that sex made their relationship better, but you shouldnt feel pressured to take this plunge. One person surveyed wrote, If you feel sex is the best way to make a relationship better or to help it work out, dont and leave the relationship. Sex can be as meaningful or as meaningless as you make it. When asked if an individual should have more than one sexual partner before settling down with one person, 64 percent of those surveyed said no. For those members of the student body who practice abstinence or secondary abstinence (born again virgins) because of personal or religious beliefs, you are not alone. Here are a few precautions that can be taken to help you stick to your morals. Talk to one another to find out where each of you stands on the issue before the relationship gets too serious. You should also avoid situations that could impair your judgment. An example might be a situation in which the two of you are alone and the only thing standing between you is the word no. Dont base your decision on the beliefs or shared experiences of others or the accepted standards of society. You and your partner have to decide if you are willing to accept the possible consequences of your actions. There is no way to predict what the outcome of your experience will be, so why not wait and make sure that you truly know each other? If nothing else, it could bring you closer to your partner because you will have something to look forward to in your relationship. The choice is yours.

Getting the Skinny on the Atkins Diet

Talking with Dietary Professionals about the Atkins Diets Effects on Nutrition
T h e Atkins diet is the most wonderful thing that has ever happened. Everybody should be on the Atkins diet; its the best solution for weight loss. By Not only does Adam Wickens the diet help you lose weight, its Copy Editor a better and more healthy lifestyle. Amidst the current barrage of pro-Atkins propaganda, it is important to remember that choosing a diet is a major decision. In light of this revelation, it seemed fit to ask a nutritionist for a professional opinion of the diet. Christina Sanchez works at C2 Nutrition Services, located in Billings. She is a registered dietician and a licensed nutritionist who has been practicing for eight years. Sanchez also holds a masters of science, an advanced degree in nutrition. When asked about the Atkins diet, Sanchez said it was very important to realize that starting a diet should not be a hasty decision. Before starting a diet, Sanchez says one should consider his or her past weight-loss history. If other diets didnt work, chances are the Atkins might not either. One-size-fits-all diets are likely not to fit you properly, she says. Chronic dieters should probably consider healthier diets. Sanchez does not believe the Atkins diet is suitable for all people. She urges potential dieters to take note of their family and personal health histories. This diet is not a good option for people who have a family history of heart disease, Sanchez says. She states that there has also been no longterm research about the effects of highfat and high-protein diets. Youre essentially making yourself a guinea pig, she says. In regards to specific health concerns, Sanchez points out that excess protein leads to eventual bone loss and potential kidney problems. The kidneys are responsible for processing the protein Photo provided by Christina Sanchez your body takes in, Christina Sanchez, registered dietician works at C2 Nutrition and too much pro- Services, located in Billings tein can overtax them. Due to the extra stress on the kid- turb your bodys ph balance. She also says neys, people on the diet should drink more that such a diet is likely to cause higher non-carbonated, non-caffeinated liquids risk of colon cancer and prostate problems. According to Sanchez, the restriction to ease the process. Sanchez also points out that some of carbohydrates also deprives your body amino acids, the building blocks of pro- of valuable glucose. In Clinical Nutrition tein, wind up breaking down into ammo- and Diabetes, author Frances Zeman says: nia. This is normal in small amounts, but Certain tissues - most notably the nervous an overabundance of protein can lead to system, red blood cells, bone marrow, pha surplus of ammonia, which would dis- agocytes, fibroblasts and the renal medulla - require glucose as their primary source of energy. Approximately 180 grams of glucose must be supplied to these tissues. Under normal circumstances, the brain metabolizes 100-150 grams of glucose per day. Aside from the health concerns, Sanchez sees the Atkins diet as expensive and cumbersome, especially when compared to high-fiber and low-fat diets. In fact, a recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that after one year, the Atkins diet was no more effective than traditional diets in terms of weight loss. The Atkins diet had quicker results within the first six months. Sanchez points out that the high-fiber diet allows one to get a more balanced diet without supplementation. Pills are not as good for you as real food, says Sanchez. You can get a better natural balance of vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants in a high-fiber diet. (Note: According to Atkins diet literature, not all carbohydrates are bad. The diet speaks constantly of net carbs, which is the total carbohydrate intake minus things like dietary fiber. The things the Atkins diet is trying to eliminate are excess sugar and other unrefined carbohydrates. High-fiber diets aim at the same goal, trying to eliminate unhealthy carbs.) Sanchez strongly encourages people considering the diet to thoroughly research other alternatives as well. She also says it is important to make the decision for yourself, not going strictly by the testimonies of family and friends.

Dream it, Do it, Disney!: College Credit & The Mouse

Imagine waking up in 80 degree weather in the middle of F e b r u a r y, then heading to the pool before you catch the bus to work. By Imagine a day Kirsten Dillard at work that Guest Writer consists of m a k i n g dreams come true for thousands of people. Then imagine a day off, having fun with friends in the Florida sunshine. Did I mention that you can do all this and get college credit? I was chosen by the Disney recruiters to be one of approximately 2,000 college students from campuses across the country to participate in the Walt Disney World College Program. During the spring 2003 semester, I learned, earned, and lived at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla. It was the best experience of my life and I received credit from MSU-B for my participation. As a Disney cast member, I worked as an attractions hostess in the Magic Kingdom Park. I worked in Mickeys Toontown Fair and spent my day making magical memories for the guests. I operated the Barnstormer, a roller coaster, and introduced guests to characters such as Cinderella and Mickey Mouse. I got to watch the fireworks every night while working and see many celebrities, like John Travolta. Students in the college program live in Disney sponsored apartment complexes. I lived in Vista Way, in an apartment with four roommates from Alabama, North Carolina, Illinois, and Michigan. The relationships I formed with my roommates will last a lifetime. The apartment complexes were always a blast. Imagine hundreds of college students from around the country living together in an apartment complex all to themselves, with pools, hot tubs, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, and a party almost every night. After work, you could always find something fun to do. If there wasnt anything exciting happening at Vista Way, you could always head to DisneyMGM Studios, Epcot, the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, the water parks, or to Downtown Disney. As cast members, we got free admission to all the parks. There were nights where Id get off work, call my roommates and wed meet to ride the Tower of Terror and the Rock n Roller Coaster at Disney-MGM Studios and then catch Epcots Illuminations night show. We also got free admission on Monday and Thursday nights into Pleasure Island, Disneys nighttime entertainment spot. There are seven dance clubs/bars, where the college program students spent many unforgettable nights. My experience with the Walt Disney World College Program was truly a once in a lifetime experience. I got to experience the Disney magic every day and as a cast member I got to spread the Disney magic. I became friends with people from all over the world. I got to learn what its like to work for a leading Fortune 100 company, as well as network with leading professionals within the Disney Company. The Walt Disney World College Program provided me with a college experience that I could never obtain at MSU-B. For one semester I got to learn, earn, and receive credit, all while having the time of my life.

Spanish Club is Making a Come Back!

T h e Spanish Club met at 2 p.m. at Guadalajara restaurant on Feb. 21. Dr. Jensen is the advisor and Melanie By Betsy Harris May is the News Editor new president since January. The club played word games, feasted on Mexican food, and talked about the future of the Spanish Club. The club has been dormant for awhile, said Dr. Jensen, but it is planning on making a come back this year. The Spanish Club is committed to providing education concerning the Spanish language and culture and to serving the people of our community. Their most important activity is volunteering for community events. They have been involved in the Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, F l a k e s g i v i n g , F e s t i v a l o f Tr e e s , ASMSU-B Easter Egg Hunt, and many other community events. The Spanish Club had a great time going to Denver last year, and they have lots of ideas for this year as well. They are setting up a committee to start a scholarship for people in the with a native and spoke English half the time and Spanish the other half. May claims that for the easiest learning, there is nothing like being totally engrossed in the culture. The Spanish Club is not such a major commitment that it is impossible to fit into your schedule. They dont have regularly scheduled meetings and usually only meet three times a semester. They are more casual and enjoy doing things like potluck dinners and maybe a Spanish movie or some impromptu salsa dancing after dinner! The people are very friendly and laid back, just like the Latino cultures. If you like fiestas and siestas, the Spanish Club is a great place to start!

Graphic by Janna Huhtala

club as well as some people outside of school who might not otherwise get a chance to go to school. They are participating in the International Study Clubs food fair in April, which will be held in the SUB and feature foods from many different cultures. The Spanish Club is looking for people who not only want to learn to speak Spanish, but are also interested in learning to cook food from Latino cultures, dances from Hispanic cultures including salsa, tango, merengue, and cha-cha, and the history of Latino cultures. As May says, Its so much more than just learning the language, its to expand the horizons

of our school and learn of a different culture. May, a 21-year-old senior, is no complete stranger to Spanish speaking culture. Two years ago she was the secretary of the Spanish Club, but then she decided to spend a year in Monterrey, Mexico at the Itesm Tec de Monterrey through the student exchange program. She lived with a host family and it only cost her the same as going to MSU-B. The family was very hospitable and she hated to leave them when it was time to go. She took Mexican culture and intermediate Spanish at school and even read a novel in Spanish. They had a buddy system where they spent time

Anyone interested in joining the Spanish Club can call 656-2232 or email them at spanishclub @annex.msubillings.edu. If you would like to know more, you can also check out their website at www.msubillings.edu/ modlang/spanclub.htm.

SOSAC: Different Kind of Club

T h e St u - Ken Christenot. dent OpportuThe club is perhaps known best n i t y S e r v i c e s on campus for two annual events: a Activities Club holiday dinner and a graduation celis designed to be ebration. The holiday dinner is held d i ff e r e n t f r o m each November and is open to all many c l u b s members of the MSU-B community f o u n d h e r e o n students, faculty, staff, and their By Jed Barton t h e M S U - B i l l - families. The graduation celebration i n g s c a m p u s . is for SOSAC members to honor the Sports Editor We a r e o rg a - clubs graduating seniors. nized in a very flexible manner to alOther events that have been held low the greatest parin various years ticipation possible, include Hallowsaid SOSAC secreeen parties and [Student Opportunity tary Sherrie b a c k -t o -s c h o o l Cummings. bashes. All events Services] SOSAC offers Operating as SOSAC holds are opportunities for peers the social compogeared not only nent of Student Opand their families to get to the students portunity Services, but to their famibetter acquainted with SOSAC offers oplies as well. one another out side the Cummings said, portunities for peers and their families to We have a large classroom, get better acnumber of memMonica Powers, quainted with one bers who have another outside the SOS Director children who find classroom, says it hard to attend SOS director an event where Monica Powers. kids arent inAll students who are registered cli- cluded, so it is important to organize ents of Student Opportunity Services events that make both the parents and a r e e l i g i b l e f o r m e m b e r s h i p i n kids feel welcome. SOSAC, and while meetings are held SOSAC raises funds via two regularly on the first Monday of each means. One is semi-annual snack month, attendance is not mandatory sales, and the other is the sale of or in some cases expected. We un- stainless steel thermoses. The next derstand that our membership is busy, snack sale will be held in the LA so we try to spread the word about building on March 15 while theractivities and fund raisers though e- moses can be purchased by contactmail and word of mouth as well as at ing the SOS office located in LI the meetings, said club President 141.

We have excellent news this issue. The trend of public urination stopped before it became By Adam Wickens a streak. We did not have Copy Editor to go to such great measures as a public information campaign like Urine-free MSU-B. Congratulations. There were, however, plenty of other crimes, so we still have a way to go. 2-10 A disturbance was reported off-campus involving MSUB students. 2-10 There was a theft in the PE building. 2-11 An alcohol violation was reported in Rimrock Hall. A person not affiliated with the campus

Police Blotter: February 10-22

was released into the custody of a relative. 2-20 A theft was reported in the SUB. 2-21 MSU-B campus security assisted the Billings police department by apprehending a driver with an outstanding BPD warrant. 2-22 A traffic violation was investigated on Normal Avenue. The driver was cited for not having

current insurance or a valid drivers license. A note to the wise: It is vital that you have car insurance. Besides avoiding the ticket if you are caught, you could find yourself in dire legal straits if you happen to cause an accident and are not insured. Remember, if you observe any criminal behavior or are the victim of a criminal act, be sure to

contact campus security immediately at 657-2147 so the matter can be dealt with in a swift and proper fashion. For more information on learning about or reporting criminal activity on campus, you can access the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act at www.msubillings.edu/security.

Where Have All the Members Gone?

Participation on MSU-Billings Campus
Student participation in campus events and organizations is always an area of concern for everyone on campus. Students want to have plenty of By Alea Logan activities and organizations Staff Writer available to them. MSU-B, as a whole, is happy to oblige. From Accounting Club to Taekwondo Club, there are many organizations and events for the students to participate in. As long as students stay interested, the clubs will continue to function. Are the students interested? Are they participating? Well, it depends on what organization you are talking about. Some of the events and clubs have seen a rise in participation since last year. Kristin Robbins of the student union and activities office said, For the majority of events participation seems to be up from or the same as last year. This trend seems to fit with the fact that enrollment is pretty much the same as last year as well. So why is there still some concern on campus as far as participation goes? Well, many clubs have seen a drop in numbers in the past year. When asked about this, most of the leaders replied that many of the students just simply did not have the time along with their studies to be very active. Rachel Schaffer, director of Sigma Tau Delta, the English honors club, says, Our level of activity depends on how busy our membership is, and theyre always very busy... most of our problems [with inactivity] are a function of our students need to work while theyre in school and the student teaching requirementand Im not about to suggest changing that! It seems that many students who want to get involved in things tend to want to get involved a lot. They spread themselves very thin and can not put a lot of effort into just one organization. Kristin Robbins sheds a little light on the shifting numbers; she says, It is a matter of what students are interested in at the time and what other events may be happening in town. It could be that there are just more clubs and events for students to participate in; if they are at one event, they obviously cant be at another. This is obviously a good thing for MSU-B; it means that as a college it is growing, however, it may not be the best thing for those involved with the current clubs. Schaffer elaborates, Some majors and minors dont even apply because they feel too guilty about not having time to devote to the group. This of course, keeps the number of participants down. Without participants, the clubs will not be able to remain up and running. St. John Robinson makes this clear when asked about the organization he advises, Alpha Mu Gamma language honorary. He replied, We [have been] dormant for the last five years, mostly due to shifts in language enrollment. There are not many students enrolled in language courses other than Spanish; because of this, there have been no participants to keep the club going. Another factor in participation is promotion and recruitment. As graduation gets closer, many of the senior students start to have more to do and less time to do it. This leaves responsibility for the organization on the shoulders of the underclassmen. Many of the leaders in organizations said a lot of the problem in dropping participation was due to lack of recruitment. The biggest problem a lot of the clubs face is that their members are graduating and there are no new members coming in to replace them. Since enrollment is not dropping, it is determined that this is either from lack of interest, lack of promotion, or both. Many of the clubs do all they can to promote their events, but with less people to do it and a bigger student body to reach, it is hard for all of the clubs to be heard. This leaves the responsibility of knowing what is available on campus to that of the general student population. Robbins puts this in perspective: There are a number of ways students can find out what is happening on campus. Look around; there are always signs and posters on the bulletin boards and the walls. Check the campus events calendar on the website; this is updated weekly and contains a large variety of student events. Students are always welcome to stop at the student union and activities office in the SUB where they can get information about upcoming events and student organizations. There are also many clubs that ask professors to do promoting right in the classrooms. Students can listen up at the beginning or end of many of their upper-level courses and hear about a variety of activities and clubs pertaining to their majors and minors. This shows that many of the clubs are trying to revive interest. Interest is the major factor in many of the clubs remaining available to the students. If students show no interest, then the clubs tend to fade away. Robinson supports this claim: We used to participate in a variety of issues: food and clothing drives, free language tutoring, bake sales, scholarship provision. Lately...language enrollment has shifted and most students take Spanish. This leaves two organizations, Alpha Mu Gamma and Spanish Club, with the same pool of students. So I have let Alpha Mu go dormant. So, how is participation doing? It depends on who you ask. Students who want to keep an organization around need to show their interest in order to keep it alive and help the university grow.

Are You My Cousin?

Family Tree Branches into Diversity
He or dren of my parents cousins as well. she is my My aunt Tammy is my mothers sister, relative in the her daughter Sheronne is my first I n d i a n cousin. Sheronne has a son who calls way. The me Auntie Mike because that is the InIndian Wa y dian Way. My mother is a grandmother of family is much differ- eight times over and neither my brother ent from ev- nor I have any kids. All of my moms eryone elses. nieces and nephews who have children We have our call my mom grandmother. Willow is By Michael Redstone i m m e d i a t e the daughter of my moms brother, and family, which she also has a daughter of her own. Staff Writer can fit into a Her daughter calls my mom grandlarge room, and then there is the ex- mother because my mom is Willows tended family that can fit into a small aunt. Another example of this is my stadium. Family is defined differently cousin Ryans daughter. Ryan is the from tribe to tribe, but they have many son of my moms first cousin, and he similarities to each other. The way that calls my mom, Auntie. Because of this, my mom is I know best is the the grandmother Assiniboine way. of his daughter. The Indian Way The Indian Way difThen we get differs from the mainfers from the mainto the adopted stream way of family family members. because we define our stream way of family These are people extended family in an because we define our who arent related altogether different by blood, but they extended family in an manner. Take the defiare family benition of grandparents altogether different cause someone for example: In the manner. adopted them. mainstream way, My grandmother grandparents are your adopted two boys parents parents. Our way is also similar, but here is where and three girls, and they became her we are different. My grandparents are sons and daughters. I call these people my parents parents, plus, my aunt and uncle because my grandgrandparents siblings, their cousins, mother claimed them as her children. aunts, and uncles would be defined as My uncle Pete is not related to us by my grandparents as well. I would call blood, but my grandmother adopted my maternal grandmothers brother him, thereby making him my uncle. All of this may seem a little congrandfather, and I would also call my paternal grandfathers uncle, grandfa- fusing at first, but it is easy to understand once you get the hang of it. I ther too. My aunts and uncles in the Indian meet new family members all the time; Way are similar to mainstream fami- I met my cousin Denean for the first lies. My parents siblings are my aunts time here at MSU-B. When she first and uncles. In the Indian Way, I would moved in down the hall, I went to inalso call my parents cousins aunt and troduce myself to her and it turned out uncle. In our way, cousins are just like she was my cousin. Our parents have siblings, so we call them, aunt and known each other for years and she uncle just as if they were my parents lived just 10 miles from me and somebrother and sister. My uncle Junior is how we had never met. I am not familiar with all of the my uncle in the Indian Way because he is my maternal grandmothers sisters anthropological stuff that goes with tracing the lineage of my family. The son. We define cousins the same way Indian Way of family differs from tribe as everyone else, and yet we are dif- to tribe as I have said, not all tribes ferent as well. I have my cousins who trace their families in such a way. This are children of my parents siblings, is just small description of the Indian but, I also have cousins who are chil- Way.

10 Things NOT to do on Spring Break

1. Spend so much money you need to take out another school loan. 2. Come back more exhausted than when you left. 3. Break up with your boyfriend of six years because youre going to Mexico. 4. Start going out with someone because you hooked up in Mexico. 5. Get married in Vegas to Jose because he smells good. 6. Stay locked in your room because you are broke. 7. Pine away studying because you got a B on your mid-term. 8. Blow chunks on anyone or anything. 9. End up on Girls Gone Wild for any reason. 10. Forget to take it easy!

cartoon by Dan Hansen

Lost in Translation: Visit Japan!

A Visit to Montanas Sister State, Kumamoto, Leaves a Lasting Impression on Journalist
By WILLIAM L. SPENCE The Daily Inter Lake with permission to reprint. (EDITORS NOTE: Inter Lake reporter Bill Spence spent two weeks in Japan recently to gauge similarities and differences between Montana and its sister state, Kumamoto.) My first impression was of the castle lit up at night, floating high above the city like a ghost.The second was of slim, gorgeous, stylishly dressed women; school kids all in uniform; neon signs and vending machines; old women in bonnets; power lines; impossibly tight parking spaces; the apparent total absence of land-use planning regulations; and narrow, winding roads, with buildings and doorways lined up just a few feet from the traffic lanes. Setbacks are not particularly popular in Kumamoto, where land is at a premium. The prefecture is only about half the size of Flathead County, but it has a population of 1.86 million compared to our 77,000. A third of the people live in Kumamoto City, the main seat of government. The rest are scattered throughout numerous towns and villages located mainly in the flat, agricultural areas to the west. The eastern half of the prefecture is mountainous and relatively undeveloped. Located on Japans southern island of Kyushu, across the Ariake Sea from Nagasaki, Kumamoto has been Montanas sister state for 21 years. I visited the area during the first two weeks of November. I wanted to learn more about its people and economy, about how life there is similar to or different from life in the Flathead. We dont wear kimonos anymore, said Seiji Takahashi, an English teacher who spent two years in Helena in the mid-90s. We dont have strange haircuts or walk around in getas (wooden clogs). Report Japan the way it is today. The problem is, after one brief visit, I can only report impressions ghostly images like the castle hovering just out of reach. I felt lost in translation much of the time I was there. Mako Sakaguchi and Ikue Tanaka with the Montana Trade Office in Kumamoto did an excellent job helping me communicate with people, but there were still many things I didnt understand. Why, for example do so many toilets in Japan have windows, usually open windows, with clear views of the neighbors living room? I never did figure that out. I also failed to master the Japanese technique of slurping hot noodles. On the rare occasion when I did snag one with chopsticks, Id suck it up like spaghetti. The free end would flap around, sloping soup and food bits all over the table and my face-at which point I discovered that Japanese restaurants typically dont have napkins. I went on a chopstick-induced diet. The people I dined with, never having seen me go head-to-head with a McDonalds double quarter pounder with cheese, wondered how I could be so big and eat so little. Not understanding the language or the customs, I was never sure if I was unintentionally insulting anyone. I couldnt even figure out which direction was north. The only thing that was absolutely clear to me was that I liked the people. They were fabulous. The Takahashis, for example, were one of several host families I stayed with. The nameplate on the front of their home describes the place, in English, as The Montana House. There was a Montana state flag inside on the stair landing, and Western paintings on the wall. Together with the other homes I visited, their house shattered my preconceived notion that all Japanese people live in tiny apartments. Other than the fairly small yard, it would blend in with any high-end subdivision in the Flathead. The place was huge much more room than Seiji, his wife Noriko and daughter Rina needed for themselves. Our previous home was smaller, Noriko explained. But we needed more room. We wanted to be a host family. After two weeks in Kumamoto, it doesnt strike me as quite so amazing that a family would spend $300,000 to build a bigger home, just so they can have the extra room to host any stray Montanan or American who happens to be passing through. farmers market offered at least six different types of oranges, apples the size of grapefruit, garlic bulbs as big as baseballs, watermelons, strawberries, several varieties of potatoes, tomatoes, onions, squash, mushrooms, cucumbers, cabbages like beach balls, great bunches of bananas, lettuce, peppers, radishes, celery, and large bins of peanuts and almonds. One or two pieces of fruit had blemishes; the rest of the produce looked fit for a kings banquet. According to one of the clerks, most of it was only a day or two from the field. Japanese people are very picky, noted Mako Sakaguchi, the head of the Montana Trade Office. We dont mind spending more money to assure that the food is of high quality. If vegetables are scratched, people wont buy them. Sakaguchi, a Kumamoto native, served as translator during the bulk of my trip. Her office is responsible for a variety of issues, including promoting the sale of Montana products in Japan, helping small businesses here learn how to expand sales over there, providing information to Japanese tourists who want to visit Montana, and Photo provided by International Studies Program coordinating educaand Dr. Jenny Leonard tional and cultural exIn fact, this big-hearted and hospitable changes. Manufacturing is another of spirit seems characteristic of the people there. Kumamotos major industries, with annual They go out of their way to make visitors feel shipments of about $25 billion. welcome. Although there are some large indus(I woke up early one morning and over- trial complexes, much of the production takes heard Noriko practicing English phrases in the place in small, family owned businesses. I living room: How are you? I hope you had a toured a wood products facility in the town of pleasant visit.) Oguni, in northern Kumamoto, that would fit However, while the people reminded inside Wal-Marts parking lot here. According me of home, the weather was distinctly for- to the manager, the place was about five times eign. the size of the average manufacturing plant in Kumamoto is located at the same lati- that area. I saw another lumber mill turning tude as Dallas and San Diego. It rained more out boards right in the middle of town, on a than five inches while I was there, but tem- corner lot that was smaller than an average conperatures were in the 60s and 70s. Palm trees venience store. and orange groves were growing beside the This intimate coexistence between comroads. Flowers were in bloom everywhere. I mercial or industrial land uses and residential wore a jacket twice. areas was one of the most notable differences The climate is a boon to farmers. Agri- between Kumamoto and Montana. culture, including forestry and fisheries, is one Traveling around the prefecture, I only of Kumamotos primary industries. The area saw one obvious residential subdivision, and ranks sixth among Japans 47 prefectures, with it was new. Other than that, there didnt seem a total output of 329 billion yen per year, or to be any separation between land uses: Homes, about $3.1 billion. retail shops, restaurants, office buildings, highOutside of Kumamoto City, its hard to drive a mile without passing through some kind of agricultural area, either open fields or rows of vinyl greenhouses. Even in the mountains, miniature rice paddies and terraced fruit orchards have been hacked into every small drainage. They even grow things on the highway medians, said former Kalispell Mayor Doug Rauthe, who spoke at two local government conferences in Kumamoto in 1995. (While he was in office, Rauthe tried to establish a sister-city relationship with Takamori, a town of 7,200 people located inside an enormous volcanic caldera in eastern Kumamoto. That effort ended in 1996, after Rauthe lost his re-election bid to Bill Boharski.) The variety of fresh produce thats available at this time of year would be enough to make a Montana vegetarian weep. One rise apartment blocks, tiny manufacturing plants, cultivated fields and industrial facilities were all jumbled together without any apparent restrictions. One of the homes I stayed in had a karaoke nightclub right next door, with the blackened, multi-storied walls of a small steel fabrication plant next to that. The familys tatami factory was across the street, together with several more homes and a convenience store. Another notable difference between the two regions is that Kumamoto officials seem to take the sister-state relationship more seriously than we do. Theyre willing to invest time and energy to maintain it (not necessarily because they expect to benefit financially, but simply because they value having an international connection). Maybe we should forget about profits and think about sharing what we have, said author Tomoyuki Isami, who spent two days showing me several of the prefectures historical sites. Instead of focusing on issues like economics and the balance of trade, maybe Montana and Kumamoto should just focus on the relationship between people. Many of the people I met seems to see this 21-year connection we have as a true relationship, an opportunity to talk and socialize, to learn and share whats special about our two regions. For them, its much more than a business arrangement. At least, that was my impression. Ultimately, Kumamoto remains a ghost in my mind,but its a friendly ghost, full of laughter and kindness, and booby-trapped utensils. Now if they would just do something about those bathrooms. MSU-B Note: Travel Japan, May 14-31, 2004. Cost $2,200 includes airfare, room and board, and 3 MSU-B credits. Financial Aid Applicable. Contact Analicia Pianca, Director of International Studies at apianca@msubillings.edu or 6571705 today to apply for this fabulous study abroad opportunity! Dr. Jenny Leonard is the lead faculty. The classes in Kumamoto will include Japanese Information Technology, and Japanese Management Style, Japanese Language and Calligraphy, and noodle-making, and much more. Open to all majors. Japan is one of the most technologicallyadvanced countries in the world. This study abroad experience will greatly enhance your resume! See http:// www.msubillings.edu/intnlstudies/ msub_study_abroad_programs.htm for more details and an application.

Bargain Hunting For Dummies:

Clearance Sales

The Survey SaysPizza & Publicity Reveals Student Desires for The Retort
First off, The Retort would like to thank everyone who participated in the Pizza and Publicity survey. Between the two events, The Retort collected over 300 surveys yielding extreme 54 percent felt the event was completely inappropriate. Well, now we know. The Privacy Act allows agencies to exchange information from one to another. An article found in The Retort, Volume 75 Issue 8, explains the nuances of the policy. The Freedom of Information Act allows a person to request information pertaining to them from a federal agency. For those who left comments, thank you. I found a few of them enlightening. There are a few I feel must be addressed. Do not be afraid to take the minority view that is unpopular but right. Though this is an excellent suggestion, it is unfortunate that The Retort lacks the staffing of minorities to provide this view. The Retort does accept and publish professional and appropriate submissions by any and all students. Exercise your voice, it is your right. Have more non-Retort people write articles and comments in The Retort, was another comment. Sometimes I feel as though I am reading my junior high school paper. Remember we are adults. This too is an excellent comment. I regret to inform those people who support this opinion that comments like these are combated by other comments. For example one person wrote, Shouting, generally at defenseless pigeons. Hell no you fascist Nazi skinner-obsessed #$%&s. I will not bend to your vicious mind game. That doesnt exactly level the playing field, but comments like that certainly affect it. The survey also provided comments about the puzzle portion. Some

By Michael Redstone Staff Writer

Where do you go if you want new clothes at a great price? There are many places around Billings that allow a person to shop for clothing without spending a whole bunch of money. One thing that a hardcore bargain hunter should look for is the clearance rack. These racks have clothing that is on sale and ready to be sold. Retail stores have these sales so that they can rotate their stock and make room for the next season of clothing. Instead of rushing into the store and buying the first thing that catches your eye, you should browse for awhile. As I have said before, a person needs to have his or her eyes peeled for those sales. If you find something that you like, and if it isnt on sale already, wait for it to go on sale. You will be kicking yourself when you find out that the pants that you

bought at full price last week are on sale this week. Most retail stores have a rack that is set aside specifically for clearance items. Upon entering the store, zero in on the clearance rack or racks. Paw through the merchandise and look for that perfect shirt. February through March is a great time to go looking for clearance sales because stores are trying to get rid of the winter clothes to make way for the lighter spring and summer clothing. A great place to start is Old Navy; they have great clearance sales going on right now. I found a pair of khakis there for less than $10. Their prices go lower depending on what you are looking for. Much of their winter clothing is on sale right now also. There are some really cute skirts that are on sale for less than $5. Each clearance sale for each section (men, women, children, etc.) is

usually located in the middle of that particular section. They also have left-over seasonal stuff from past holidays. Other places that are great for clearance sales are Vanity, Wal-Mart, and JC Penney. These places are good to go to when you are in search of those clearance sales on clothes. One of the problems with clearance sales is that all of the stock that store has left of that particular bit of clothing is what is on the rack. This means that if you cant find that shirt in your size on that rack, chances are you wont be finding itat all. If you dont mind shopping for last seasons clothing, then clearance sales are the place for you. I myself could care less if I am wearing clothes from two seasons ago. I still wear my older brother s hand-me downs. I am definitely a clearance sale type of shopper.

By Dan Hansen Cartoonist

variance in results. Second, the questions on the surveys were constructed for two separate purposes: One, to find out how much our readers and MSU-Bs students know about the Retort, and two, to get a general feel for our audience. For those interested in the answers to questions on the survey: Franco Harris finished his career with the Seahawks in 1984, playing only one season after 11 seasons with the Steelers. Twenty-eight percent answered correctly. I was personally surprised that the score was that high considering the accomplishments Harris made prior to his last season. The question regarding Janet Jackson was asked to establish an understanding of our audiences tastes regarding media content. Twenty-eight percent didnt seem to care about the event, 18 percent felt it was a distraction tactic in relation to the upcoming presidential events, and

thought it was stupid, some thought it was funny, and some were even offended by it. Your opinions about the content of the survey could only be determined by comments written. That is why the survey was written the way it was: to get your reaction. The results of the survey provided the Retort staff with the necessary information to fine tune the content to suit the needs of our audience. No matter how funny or inappropriate, the survey served its purpose by telling us what we needed to know. Thank you for your participation. The Retort would also like to inform you that we are looking for staff writers and any submissions in the areas of creative writing, art, current events, opinions, and so on. It is your newspaper, help it take form.

Are You Addicted to Crack?:

Proper Etiquette for Wearing Low-Rise Pants
When you walk around the MSU-B campus, it seems that everywhere you look there is an abundance By Jennifer Fenton of crack, not the drug but the A&E Editor BUTT. I was not aware that this was a going trend here in Billings and feel kind of left out...NOT. The very first and last thing that I see when I enter and leave the L.A. building, or any building for that matter, is ass, and if it is not ass, then it is underwear. I not only notice it in the halls and in the coffee shop but in business offices and classrooms. I do not feel that the education I am paying for should be hindered by blatent fleshy indiscretion in front of me. Besides the fact it is rude, mooning is also considered a law violation in some states. So maybe we should just all carry ticket books around and start issuing citations. This is not a personal attack against anyone in general, and I am not narrowing this down to just the ladies; men you know you too violate this horribly rude fashion statement. Referring to men, I can remember a time when people thought that showing your butt crack was the rudest thing to do and would make degrading comments such as, Say no to crack, You got plumbers crack, Its a

cartoon by Dan Hansen full moon tonight, etc. Why in todays society is it considered okay to walk around with your pants around your pelvis? Fashion designers need to be a little more conscientious when they design their clothes. Yes, I know that some people are built a little differently with long legs and a long torso, and the only type of pants you can fit in are low-rise. If that is the case, then do so with respect to your peers and fellow citizens that may have to look at you. They make low-rise underwear, but these sometimes are too low and allow you to feel the breeze and shine your neighbors. Others of you may be self consciences about wearing full-backed underwear, but some is better then none. Underwear may be offending to some, more or less because it is called underwear, a garment that is designed to go under your clothes and to be enjoyed by yourself or someone extremely close to you, not the rest of the world. Underwear are defined by www.dictionary.com as clothes that are worn next to the skin, beneath ones outer clothing, also called underclothing or underclothes. So with that you see you are to wear them under your clothes, and they are not meant to be seen outside of your outer layer. It does not matter if you have the sexiest pair from Victoria Secrets or a cheap pair from Wal-Mart, keep them to yourself. If I wanted to know that you were wearing a g-string, which I wouldnt, I expect that I was someone awfully close to you. So the next time you decide to slip on your low-rise pants and head out the door, try to accessorize with a longer shirt or jacket that can be tied around your waist. If that is just impossible to do, then give us all a courteous upward tug at your jeans when you sit down. You never know, more people may start treating you like a friend when your sitting in class and spending less time staring down the crack of you ass. Remember, crack kills.

At first viewing, one may not know what to make of Helmet Boy, but upon closer inspection it becomes clear that the ultimate curiosity and bliss that he enjoys everyday is something that many of us could use more of; we can learn from Helmet Boy. I decided to track down and interview the websites creator, videographer, and stillphotographer to paint a better picture of this man-boy empowered by a special blue helmet. They asked me not to use their real names because they didnt want to be overwhelmed with questions from readers of this article. They want readers to reach the epiphany that they have, but, It makes it so much stronger if you find it on your own, says Easy, the websites photographer. The creator has chosen to be called Tripod and the videographer Gravy. I invite you to come along with me on a ride through the inner-workings of this website (and maybe even your own heart). AW: Where did you meet Helmet Boy? Gravy: At the park. I was taking one of my long solitary walks, a constitutional if you will, when I noticed something shiny and blue bobbing to and fro next to a tree. I thought it was a blue jay, but when I got closer it turned out to be the happiest man boy Id ever seen; I was moved to tears. Tripod: I met Helmet Boy at a flea market in Maine. Easy: I met him through Tripod. AW: What were your first impressions? Tripod: This is a man boy full of life, vigor, energy, and an insatiable thirst for adventure in anything from a weed to a crab nebula. Easy: I was a little stand-offish at first.

In this topsy-turvy world that we all call home, its important that we have heroes. They are necessary. We go through our lives, bouncing back and forth from one By Aric Weber seemingly arbitrary goal to the Columnist next, all the while wondering ,Is this worth anything? Will this amount to anything in the end? Where did I put that sandwich? A hero is someone who wonders none of these things. A hero does not have the time to worry about these things because his heart is so incredibly vested in the task at hand. This hero may be giving a blanket to a transient whos cold so that the transient may burn it for heat or cooking. This hero may be irrigating land in war-torn Afghanistan so that the starving people there may begin growing poppies again, and in turn, exchange the extracted opiates for money and then use that money to buy food (or more poppy seeds). This hero may be saving orphans from a burning building and then loading them into the back of a truck, where its safe, to sell them on the black market at a reasonable price to people who really deserve them. This hero may be playing with cardboard. Being a member of this topsy-turvy world where heroics are rare, I am lucky enough to know of one such hero. Wandering through the World Wide Web one blustery morning between classes, I came upon a website dedicated to heroism. Dedicated to heart. That website is www.helmetboy.com.

Looking back, I think that maybe I thought it was too good to be true. No one could be this happy. Maybe I was jealous, I dont know, but now that Im on the Helmet Boy train, I dont think Ill ever get off. Gravy: I realized how fun life could be; should be. AW: Have you been you invited on any of his adventures? Tripod: I was witness to a few. Sidekick, I could say. Sometimes driver, sometimes passenger. Gravy: Ive been privileged enough to tag along on an adventure or two. Helmet Boy has never seemed to mind. Easy: I took the pictures. (To Gravy) Did this guy even look at the website? AW: Which was your favorite adventure? Tripod: Its impossible to narrow down to one. Helmet Boy seems to be able to find the sublime in objects that most consider inane. Gravy: I agree with Tripod in saying that it may be supremely difficult, because with Helmet Boy, everyday is a new adventure, each as joyous as the last. I mean, how does your favorite desert get any better? AW: Are you asking me? Gravy: Sure. AW: I dont know, frosting? Frosting. Gravy: Why didnt you have it on there in the first place? AW: Im not very good at icing things. Were getting off-track. Easy, whats your favorite adventure? Easy: Cardboard. AW: Alright. What has Helmet Boy taught you? Tripod: Hes taught me that life is short and beautiful and none of it is to be

taken terribly seriously. Its impressive to see somebody so passionate. I want to find my helmet. Gravy: Hes taught me to appreciate the beauty of life and our surroundings because even the smallest thing can become the most important thing, worthy of our attention. Easy: Theres more to life in the least of things. AW: Tripod, what did you mean by my helmet? Tripod: What drives me, what empowers me, what protects me, what brings me back simple joy. Gravy: A persons helmet is that which sets them free. Theres a protective quality within that freedom. Tripod: It blocks them from their own editor. Gravy: Their own censor. It lets them do what they really want without being ashamed. Lets them act without worrying aboutTripod: Societal regulations. Gravy: Decorum, for lack of a better word. Easy: Like Dumbo, his helmet was that feather that the singing crows gave him. When he had the feather, he could fly. It doesnt necessarily have to be a tangible, material thing, but that could make it easier for some. AW: So, do you think we could all use a helmet? Tripod: Absolutely. Easy: Yes. Gravy: I concur. So theres the interview. With any luck, this will aid some of you in finding your own helmet. Thats all for this time. Love, Aric.

GRANDPA Part 1
By Natasha Eldridge Student Submission Mom gets home, and from the way I say hello, she knows somethings wrong. Without so much as taking her shoes off, she comes upstairs. Whats a matter? Im crying. Something at work? No, everythings fine at work What then? She sits down on the side of my bed. I dont knowI just feel so lonely... Lonely? No reason to feel lonely. CmonWant some wine? Sure She gets up to go to the kitchen. I dont move. I just want to stay here curled up in a ball. Maybe better times will come soon and I wont feel thisthisdarkness. Im almost mad at myself. You should feel sad when there is something to be sad about. I have no reason. Works been great - best job Ive ever had. I get tired at the end of the week, but so does everybodyNo excuse, really. Grandma was asking about you this morning, Mom says from the kitchen. She said Grandpa planted some cherry trees under the windows. They are having an early spring too Shes back on the edge of my bed. Half listening, I take a glass from her hand. She has beautiful hands - fingers long and thin, skin as soft as papier-mch, perfectly manicured nails. She takes pride in taking care of her hands. When I was little I would compare our hands - hers, nails polished with fashionable red, mine, chopped into imperfect squares with cuticles and streaks of Playdoh in the corners. Dont worry, shed say, when I was your age, my hands looked exactly like yours. I look up at Mom, her short blond hair carefully tucked into a style. I remember when she was a brunette. I smile at the memory. It was a long time ago. Remember summers with Grandpa at the river house? Yes, I am back in the room. Mostly it would be just the two of you-fishing, gardening. On weekends Id come to visit. Sometimes Id arrive at dusk-take the last ferry from the city-and Id look in from the gate before you knew I was there. Youd be in the yard, wearing your little sweater, just finished with dinner or on a swing he made for you. And it would be so cozy-garden around you, everything so neat and tucked away for the night, river behind the trees, quietas if I was looking at a picture Ukrainian summers are warm and heavy with aromas of aspens, birch trees, and evergreens. I miss the laziness of July afternoons, the chill of the night breeze and the sweet air above the garden at the river house. Most of all I miss days spent on the river with my grandfather. I take a sip of my wine. Little by

little the sound of Moms voice draws me out of my sadness. I havent seen my grandparents in seven years. I have good excuses work and school take all of my energy, its expensive to travel across the ocean, and I cant take the time off. But deep in my heart there is a painful guilt. They dont accuse me of not making an effort, dont demand my attention. But they dont have to. Seven years ago, during my one and only visit since I left home, I couldnt get over how much older I found them, how much smaller. Mom used to say people shrink when they get older. One day I will shrink too. I think of that often and postpone my visit again and again. I dont even know if I have a picture of him Mom says. I do. I get up to dig through an old shoe box in the closet. I know exactly where it is. Just saw it recently. An old photograph of my grandfather in his navy uniform. I borrowed it from my grandmother, promised to make a copy and return it. Here he is. Cant be older than twenty years old. Posing for a picture as people did back then straight back, hand on a chair, looking right into the camera, no smile. We are looking at him together. Neither one of us knew him this young. In my memories, Grandpa is tall, slender, and handsome. Even in his sixties he looks fit and strong. He always does something physical: fixes things in the house, carries heavy bags from the market, plants trees, works in the garden. He has been retired for years, but it seems that hes busier than anyone else in the family. Maybe with the exception of my grandmother. She cooks and cleans day and night and everything around her sparkles. She tells stories with such humor and animation that, even though we have heard them many times over, we laugh and laugh until tears come out of our eyes and our stomachs hurt and we beg her to stop. She makes jams at the end of summer and I, as the first and only grandchild at that time, get the skimmers off the freshly made batch. They are sweet and chewy like caramel with flavors of black currants, raspberries, and cherries. I pick those myself in the garden of the river house, carefully avoiding the spiders and spider webs. One in the basket, one in my mouth until the basket is half-full and my fingers and lips are red with berry juice. Grandpa looked so handsome at the last May Fifth Parade. In all his medals... Mom tucks her feet under my blanket. It feels so good to be talking about him now, remembering. I can picture him now standing by the front door. He is dressed in his best suit, shoes polished, hair brushed back. Every year, together with other WWII vets, he takes a stroll in the Victory Day Parade. Medals shining in the warm spring sun, women carrying fragrant bunches of lilac. They walk and smile and talk about the days passed. Happy to still be there, sad for those who didnt make it this year, ignoring the fact that every year there are fewer of them to meet. I think back to one early morning when Grandpa takes all of us to the Parade. Its early in the morning and hes ready before anyone else. Mom

and her sister, both in their late twenties, put on their best, most fashionable mini skirts and high heels. He looks them over quickly before walking out of the door, he shakes his head. Modern fashion! he says, then takes me by the hand and we walk ahead. Even before we reach the main street, I can hear the growing noise of the parade. It starts by the river and moves down Main street all the way to the center of town like a giant serpent. I am excited. I know there will be flags and balloons. There will be a marching band with a flood of loud copper instruments. They dont play very well but they make a lot of noise, so we have to shout to each other and thats fun! We join the Parade and walk on the part of the street usually filled with cars and trolleys. Any other day I wouldnt dare step my foot on the street, but now, here I am and Im getting away with it! We walk for a long time, passing the candy store where Grandpa and I buy my favorite caramels, the ice cream stand, a little square garden, some flowers planted on the sidewalk. Mom kneels down to check my coat. Are you warm enough? Its May, but the air is still a bit chilly. Even tulips have not yet bloomed. What are those? Mom points to the green sticks with pointy leaves. Tulips, I reply No.Tulips? Are you sure? Yes, Mom. Im confident. How do you know? Grandpa told me We finally stop. There is no more music. People come up to Grandpa to say hello and shake his hand. I look up - some have medals like Grandpa, but not as many. I see a podium with white letters on a bright red background. A man in a trench coat makes his way to a microphone. Red carnation in his lapel, papers in hand, he prepares to give a speech. I can barely see him. His echoing voice is baffled by the heavy coats of the adults around me. I get red in the face. Shhhhh! Shhhhhh! I put my little finger to my mouth. I cant hear! Everyone looks down. They are first surprised, then amused and then just laughing at a 4year-old who actually wanted to hear a boring political speech at the Victory Day Parade! Embarrassed, I look up at Grandpa. He smiles and picks me up so I can see the man on the podium. I reach the medals on Grandpas chest and feel the coolness of the metal against a sharply pressed wool of his lapel. For a brief moment I can see his face close up. He smiles with his eyes, his hair shuffled by the playful spring breeze. The man at the podium started his speech, but I dont care. There is so much to see from up here! There is a balloon floating up into the deep blue sky. I want to follow it with my eyes, but the sun is in my face. I squint and rub my eyes hoping to catch one more glimpse, but Grandpa is already lowering me back into the world of coat tails and shoes. Before Grandma could catch us, he says. Im disappointed but wont ask to be picked up again. Hes not supposed to do this he has a heart condition. I dont know what a heart condition is, but I know it is to be taken seriously and

he is not to lift anything heavy, including myself. He does it anyway and he winks at me as if to remind me that now we have a secret. Its late and Mom looks tired and small. Is she shrinking? Remember my Christmas tree, Mom? I dont want this to end. The one he planted in the back yard next to his favorite apple tree? She nods. Every summer wed return to measure whos grown more in a year - you or the tree He loved you so He took you with him everywhere - to the store, to the market You know he bought me ice cream every time Id go to the store with him? Did he And not just one cone. Two! One on the way to the store, one on the way home. Wed walk especially slow so that I could finish the second one before we got home. Cant believe he never told her. Another one of our secrets. We are both peaceful and exhausted by the emotion of our memories. The two glasses of wine stand unfinished on my night table. Feeling better? Mom kisses me goodnight and turns off the light. At five oclock the next morning the phone rings. It is time for me to get up to go to work but the alarm has not yet gone off. I run downstairs where mom picks up the phone. My heart sinks; I know no good news comes at this hour. I look at her, she puts the phone down. Grandpa died last night. They didnt want to wake us and waited until the morning to call...

Look for Part 2 of Natasha Eldridges compelling short story Grandpa in Issue 10 of The Retort. Please send us your submissions: Short stories, poetry, photography, artwork...anything! Email The Retort at retort@msubillings.edu.

Horoscopes
Aries (March 21-April 19) Youre in quite a predicament. Your emotions are raging, but youre having trouble finding appropriate words. You certainly dont want to make things worse, so just watch and listen. Taurus (April 20-May 20) Youre smart, and youre building experience. Consult friends who are creative, but dont follow all of their advice. Youre more practical, and thats necessary now. Gemini (May 21-June 21) Money may be on your mind, but dont make it an obsession. Its not the most important thing there is. Dont be rude to a person who cant do anything thing for your career. You never know. Cancer (June 22-July 22) Youve got plenty of enthusiasm, but that might not be enough to get through to someone who thinks he or she already knows it all. Dont feel hurt; its nothing personal. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Your passions greatly exceed your ability to express them, so take care. You dont want to scare away somebody who could turn out to be a very good friend or lover. Be gentle. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Yo u w o n t h a v e t o w o n d e r which are your fair-weather friends, because youll find out soon enough. Somebody who was only after your money is about to tip his or her hand. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Theres plenty of responsibility, and the work looks interesting, but you may not see much income yet. Does this mean its not valuable? Hardly! Just look at how much youre learning. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Your sweetheart may be a tad argumentative, but otherwise, things are going your way. If you can wait out the temper tantrum, your patience could be well rewarded. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Theres no way to avoid it _ an investment is required at home. Something thats broken will have to be fixed, or else youll get the cold shoulder. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Youre in a rather feisty mood, and luckily youre smart. But dont be thoughtless and break a loved o n e s h e a r t . A n d d o n t s t e p o n anyones toes if you can help it. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Working for money can be nice, and its certainly necessary, but it can also be rather annoying when it interferes with your fun. That could happen, so stay calm. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Itll be easier than usual to find the right words to express your love today. Truth is, you already know what to say. (c) 2004, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

Aric Weber & Alea Logan

Name: Aric Weber Age: 23 Major: English Literature, Hometown: Billings,Mont. What would you do with 100 lbs. of Jello? Depending on how long itll be around--I might go see a movie, or miniature golf. Whatever the Jello would like to do. When I graduate from college I want to...change into steam and float through the Ether, ending my days unified with all living things. That, and sleep in. Name: Alea Logan Age: 23 Major: English Education and Theatre Minor Hometown: Ballantine, Mont. If I had $1 million dollars to spend on only one thing I would...give it to my mommy, that way she would be the responsible one who would divide it up among all my debts and then give me back the rest to spend on lots of things. Hee hee. When I graduate from college I want to...Travel!! I would truly like to teach abroad for awhile and then move to LA with my friends so I can start to direct film.

MSU-Billings Music Students Win Coveted Music Awards

Press Release
Two music students in the Montana State University-Billings Department of Music have won coveted music awards. Pianist Jacquelyn Weitz, of Billings, Mont., has been named the firstplace winner of the Missoula Symphony Association 2003-2004 Young Artist Competition. As the winner of this prestigious competition, Jacquelyn was awarded two solo performances with the Missoula Symphony on February 14 and 15. She performed Rachmaninoff s Third Piano Concerto. Jacquelyn is a student of Dorothea Cromley, professor of piano at MSU-Billings. The Missoula Symphony Competition is held every other year and attracts students from throughout the western part of the United States. Competitors must be 26 years of age or younger. This years competition consisted of 12 performers and included students from the University of Utah and Brigham Young University. Jacquelyn has been successful in a number of other competitions. She is the past winner in both the High School Duke, earned this opportunity after winning the Northwest Division of the competition. Irene is a third-year music performance major at Montana State University-Billings. She has been studying the clarinet for seven years and is a student of Gary Behm, professor of clarinet at MSU-Billings. The Young Artist Competition will take place on March 29, during the 2004 MTNA National Conference. The national winner of this competition receives a cash prize and will perform in a winners concert during the conference. The threetiered MTNA Competitions begin at the state level. Winners of each state competition advance to the divisional stage and then proceed to the national competition finals. MTNA is a non-profit organization comprised of 24,000 independent and collegiate music teachers committed to advancing the value of music study and music making to society. Founded in 1876, MTNA is the oldest professional music teachers association in the United States.

Pianist Jacquelyn Weitz winner of Missoula Symphony Young Artist Competition and clarinetist Irene Duke division winner in Young Artist Competition and Collegiate division of the Montana Association of Symphony Orchestras Young Artist Competition. Last spring, she was a finalist in the Pinault International Competition and, most recently, was awarded first place in the state division of the Music Teachers National Association Young Artist Competition. Irene Duke, also of Billings, will travel to Kansas City, Mo., in March, to compete as a National Finalist in the Music Teachers National Association Young Artist Competition. Irene, the daughter of Boonphieng

Photographic Depictions of Lewis & Clark Expedition at Montana Camp Sites

Display Viewing at MSU-Billings Northcutt Steele Gallery Until March 26
Press Release
A photographic depiction of Lewis & Clark at Montana camp sites, titled In My Neighborhood: The Corps of Discovery Revisited, by photographer M.A. McMillan, will be on exhibition at Montana State University-Billings Northcutt Steele Gallery, Monday through Friday, February 18 through March 26, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The exhibition, curated by Loverty Erickson, MSU-Billings student art gallery director, is free and the public is encouraged to view the display. The exhibition features photographic depictions of sites, noted by Lewis and Clark in their journals, where the Corps of Discovery camped in the Great Falls area. Photographer M.A. McMillans fondness for those sites, a part of the country he feels truly remains unspoiled, is reflected in the exhibition. The negatives of these images were made within a few days of the journals entry date, separated only by nearly 200 years, said McMillan, who added, I have recorded the tree leaf stage, the grass growth, and the light quality similar to what the Corps of Discovery witnessed. Locating these features means that I have traveled many miles on the Missouri River so that the cameras vantage point reflects the view from where the Corps might have been... that being in or near the Missouri River. A good portion of the 100-mile radius is void of fence lines, telephone poles, roads and any sort of object made by man, just as it was 200 years ago. This aspect also lends antiquity to the collections content. Neil Jussila, faculty advisor for the Northcutt Steele Gallery, comments on McMillans style: His use of a bromoil process for photographic processing recalls the early development of photography and gives the audience an uncanny sensation that maybe, just maybe, a photographer was in the midst of that amazing adventure, reminding us of the fact that the best in art is timeless and can be as fresh today as the day it was created. The bromoil photographic process, said McMillan, was my choice exclusively to finish each image. This photographic process consists of bleaching the silver halide image from the paper support and applying ink to bring back the image with a resulting appearance of a charcoal sketch or pen and ink drawing. These sample images show the progress of four steps in an image. Because art exhibitions serve to inform and give pause to reflect on how magnificent this region is, a trip to the Northcutt Steele Gallery and McMillans exhibition should prove rewarding, added Jussila. The Northcutt Steele Gallery is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Arrangements may be made for informative, lectured group tours of the department, demonstrations and exhibitions on weekends and evenings. Docent tours for groups may be arranged by calling 657-2324.

Photos by Jason Lillie Above: The sign says it all, M.A. McMillan displays his photographic depiction of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Left: This photo shows just one of the Montana camp sites that were researched and photographed during McMillans trip. This is just one of many photos displayed. Bottom Left: The gallery will be open to be viewed until March 26. Northcutt Steele Gallery, shown here, is located on the first floor of the Liberal Arts Building and can be seen during regular building hours of 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

Mardi Gras Celebration and You Missed Out!

Fat Tuesday Gets a Kick from The Bradbury Press Despite Low Attendence
As students walked through the SUB, the sound of music could be heard all around. Well, it was Mardi Gras. MSU-B was host to a fun-filled evening that was By Evelyn Irmen tapped off by a Reporter dance. Mardi Grasto many it may seem like an evening to pull up your shirt just to receive a few beads, a time to get really drunk, listen to music, and forget the whole thing the next morning. Well, the real idea of Mardi Gras is a long celebration that begins on Jan. 6 (the twelfth night) and runs until the last Tuesday in February (Fat Tuesday). The time between these dates is known as a carnival. During the carnival there are many masked balls, parades, and large feasts. On Fat Tuesday, the last day of the carnival, the largest of the celebrations is held. MSU-B tried to throw their rendition of a huge last day of Mardi Gras celebration, but due to lack of student participation the dance turned into more of a little gathering. Despite little turn out, the guests of honor, The Bradbury Press, an alternative/ pop band from Seattle, tried their hardest to lighten the crowd up and get them to their feet. The Bradbury Press consists of four talented musicians: Darren Golden, lead vocalist and lead acoustic; Dave Brewer, lead guitar and vocal; Travis Hartman, bass guitar and back up vocal; and Greg Garcia, percussion. The band played songs off of their debut album as well as a few cover songs. Golden said they got their name from a local icon no one knows about, in Seattle. Their debut album Hanscom was released in October of 02. As of Feb. 25, the album became available at Hastings for $10. The CD is also available on the website www.thebradburypress.com, and at www.cdbaby.com. If you want to preview it before you buy, visit their website where their more popular tracks are available. The band, who accredits their sound to the influences of Dave Matthews Band, Counting Crows, and Shawn Mullins, reminded me exactly of all three. The tracks off of their first album were played and Bouncing Ball seemed to be the crowd favorite. Sweet Home Alabama, a Lynard Skynard cover, got the crowd up and dancing. They played a few of their newer songs that will be offered on their second CD which will be released in the fall of this year. From the Hanscom album we heard such tracks as Rain, Walking, and Daydreaming Song. These songs were great and well absorbed by the audience. After a brief intermission the crowd seemed to thin out a little, but, despite the lack of people, they went on to play more of their catchy melodies. MSU-B Freshman Jessica Deleonardo said: Theyre great. Its a different kind of music; its not what you hear on the radio. Following the concert, the band took time to mingle with the students and answered questions. They also gave out a few complimentary copies of their CD and were more then willing to autograph them. They also added everyone who was interested to their mailing list so that they could send updates about the band, upcoming concerts, and release dates. Even though the Mardi Gras dance had such a small turnout, it wasnt a bust. People danced, circuit breakers blew (a minor flub), laughs were shared, and good times were all around. The band was phenomenal, decorations were fitting, and the sugar-based punch tasted great, but left a huge question of whether or not the punch was spiked? To our readers and fellow students: You missed a fun-filled evening with a band that will not be forgotten. Remember, your student fees helped pay for this event. Student Union Activities gives the students an opportunity for eventful evenings. If nobody shows up, then we will be left with nothing to talk about. So be supportive. Everybody enjoys a good time.

Photo by Janna Huhtala---Darren Golden, lead vocals and guitar and Greg Garcia, percussion jam during a packed performance that The Bradbury Press gave in the MSU-Billings ballroom on Feb. 25

The Passion of the Christ: Brutal but Biblical?

By Chris Hewitt Knight Ridder Newspapers Powerful and upsetting, The Passion of the Christ is a movie about a Jesus who is, quite literally, dying to get up on that cross. Focusing on the idea that Jesus was eager to fulfill his destiny and to do what was needed to save his people, Mel Gibsons bluntly effective movie has to be the most single-minded cinematic version of the final hours of Christ ever. Thats why the film moves so swiftly. Thats why it is so specifically focused on Jesus torture (the Resurrection scene is painfully brief, as if Gibson doesnt want to give us relief from the two hours of agony that precede it). Thats why Jesus looks almost victorious in his final moments. And thats why the film is so relentlessly violent. Its the Bloodiest Story Ever Told, with the brutality beginning long before the Crucifixion and not ending until well after the final nail is hammered into the cross. It is possibly the most gruesome movie Ive ever seen, and my opinion on the violence vacillated as I watched it. On the one hand, Gibsons prolonged scenes of torture tip over into sadism not on the part of the torturers, but of the director. On the other hand, I appreciated the horrifying degree to which Gibson pushes the carnage, since his point is to make the level of violence come as close as possible to matching the level of sacrifice the movies Jesus attains. This Christ movie is not about his relationship with his disciples or the tenor of the times but about the enormity of his physical sacrifice. And its worth pointing out that, here, passion means suffering. The movie does not spend time with the loving, gentle parts of the Christ story, which are seen in short flashbacks. The implication is that we are being shown how painful and almost unendurable the suffering was as a reminder of how much compassion and love it represented. This point hits home movingly when Jesus is being nailed to the cross and Jim Caviezel, as Jesus, chokes out the line, Father, forgive them. It is a great scene filmed, like the entire movie, in gorgeous widescreen and almost everything that comes before it leads directly to that moment. I say almost because Gibson is still the gifted, but occasionally crude, filmmaker who expected us to cheer the murder of a character in Braveheart simply because he was gay. Passion doesnt do anything that dopey, but Gibson delights in lingering over the way Jesus torturers cackle and smack their spitty lips while they carve away his flesh. These scenes would be so much more interesting if Gibson spent time delving into what could make humans behave so inhumanely rather than simply depicting them as monsters. As to charges of anti-Semitism, Passion didnt strike me as overtly anti-Semitic, although it offers plenty of fuel for the prejudices hateful people might already possess. I also think thats beside the point. You could scan the faces and clothes of Jesus accusers to find Semitic features, I suppose, but youd be missing the movies assertion that all of the people in this story are, in an odd way, playing their parts in sending Jesus to the destiny he longs to fulfill. In the scenes where Jesus is being hurried to his fate, I forgot to look for the differences between the people who accused him because all of them seemed alike to me: human, struggling and flawed. Despite Gibsons assertion that Passion is scrupulously faithful, a great deal of choice is involved in the way this director organizes and selects his material. And there is a lot of room for interpretation, so everyone is bound to have a deeply personal reaction to the film. But those reactions need not correspond to Gibsons own (Catholic, ultra-traditional) view of the story. What I took away was the enormity of the empathy in the peoplethe disciples, the bystanders, Jesus motherwho watch Christs suffering. More than anything, the pain and confusion in those faces struck me as a metaphoric plea for belief, regardless of what it is that you believe in. Whether its the Talmud, Jesus, the Koran or the beating heart of the person who wakes up next to you in the morning, it doesnt matter. What matters is that we need that belief to survive.

THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST 3 stars Directed by: Mel Gibson Starring: Jim Caviezel Rated: R, for nonstop brutality SHOULD YOU GO? It is a powerful, moving film.
(c) 2004, Saint Paul Pioneer Press (St. Paul, Minn.). Visit the World Wide Web site of the Pioneer Press at http://www.twincities.com/mld/pioneerpress/ Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services.

PHOTOGRAPH BY PHILLIPE ANTONELLO/DALLAS MORNING NEWS (February 22) Jesus (Jim Caviezel) sits with the apostles at The Last Supper in a scene from The Passion of The Christ, a film by Mel Gibson. (lde) 2004

Moose Stampedes Over Drama Queen!

Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen The story: A 15-year-old girl (Lindsay Lohan) moves from New York By Alea Logan City to a small town in New Staff Writer Jersey. She is very opposed to the idea at first and feels that her dreams to become a famous actress will be squashed. She, of course, learns that she is wrong, and finds out that it doesnt matter where you are and what people say about you; its all whether or not you believe in yourself. I suppose if you are under the age of 12, you would probably like this movie, however, I am not. I am 23years-old, and I cant believe I paid money to torture myself. Yes, I said torture. In fact, if it was not for the fact that I had to write this review, I probably would have relinquished my $7 and walked out of the movie halfway through it. This is definitely not one of Disneys best movies. No Princess Diaries here. The story line is not at all brilliant. We have seen it a hundred or more times in previous movies. A big city girl moves to small town U.S.A. and discovers herself. This of course would never have happened had she stayed in the big city. Ugh! This story line is too overdone. Of course, it has worked for previous movies, so what didnt work in this one? Well, for one, the acting in it was definitely not worthy of those famous awards we all just watched a few weekends ago. Lindsay Lohan plays Mary (aka Lola), the 15-year-old star of the movie. She was one of the few actresses who werent that bad, but really, how hard is it for her to play a snobby teen actress? After all, thats exactly what she is, Adam Garcia plays Stu Wolf, a drunk, washed up, lead singer of a band. I started to wonder who the real drama queen in the movie was, because obviously Adam is a fan of dramatic acting. Allison Pill who plays Lolas best friend, Ella, also leaves a lot to be desired in the acting department. For lack of time and space I wont go into all of the bad acting I saw, but I will say that overall, most of the actors in this movie were far too happy to dramatize everything and underestimate the importance of realism. The second reason the familiar plot didnt work was simply because of the way it was portrayed. This is definitely not a movie this director should use on his or her resume. I think the director was shooting for Mary to look like she was the typical teenage drama queen who daydreamed too much, overdramatized every aspect of her life, and Tierney), the local veterinarian. He doesnt realize this, however, until the countrys most recent ex-president, and ex-husband, arrives in town. All of a sudden, not only does Andy have competition for the mayoral position, but he also has competition for Sally. The campaign that follows would make some of the greatest politicians re-think their campaign strategies. This is a great film. It is sure to be one of this years most remembered comedies. I went in expecting to be entertained and came out happy as a moose! Okay, so I cant say if moose are generally all that happy, but I definitely got what I expected. Ray Romano does a wonderful job and Gene Hackman is his perfect match. The producers could not have made a more believable small town. It had all of the stereotypical necessities: quaint shops, a central gazebo, a local handy man, a local streaker, an old and conservative city council, a baby moose that wanders the streets, plenty of friendly townsfolk, and of course, the vacation home of t h e e x - p r e s i d e n t . O k a y, s o t h e streaker, the moose, and the president arent really normal small town aspects, but thats what makes the movie. It has the perfect mixture of the ordinary and the not so ordinary. As an audience member you cant help but fall in love with this strange little town that becomes a center for media mayhem, although through most of the movie you arent sure whether you like or dislike the president. This is somewhat ironic, considering these are about the same emotions you go through during an actual presidential reign. The plot is hilarious, the punch lines ingenious, the ending satisfying and agreeable and, needless to say, the acting, impeccable. I must admit, I even cried at one point in the movie, though most of the time I was holding my sides laughing. If you want a fun night out with a little romance and a few good moral lessons tossed in, I suggest going to see this movie. Its definitely worth it. 5 Stars

graphic by Richard Castillo got herself into trouble by doing it. Well, she did convey this, but it would have been a lot better had she not been so tacky about it. Every time Lola (a.k.a. Mary) was daydreaming the scenes turned into cheesy backgrounds with awful music and visions of Lola prancing around. This was funny the first couple of times, but the director seemed to feel she had to shove the concept down our throats. I can only take so much of floating hearts and prancing daisies before I want to...well I will save you the explicative, but I am sure most people agree. With a few less tasteless scenes and few more somewhat meaningful ones to replace them, this may have been a decent family drama or even a good comedy. Add some better acting, and it may have even been another hit teen movie. The way it is now, however, will probably make it one of this years biggest flops. Whoever was in the cutting room shouldve done a lot more cutting. Though in all fairness, I must give this movie one compliment. The row of about nine or 10 children sitting behind me, ranging in age from about three to about 11, seemed to love it and may have even learned something from it. This could be a good thing for babysitters and parents. That is, as long as they dont want to kill themselves halfway through the movie. 2 Stars Mooseport With a cast including Gene Hackman, Ray Romano, Marcia Gay Harden, Maura Tierney, Fred Savage, Rip Torn, and Christine Baranski, how can you have anything but a smash hit? This comedy, set in the small town of Mooseport, Maine, shows us what small town politics are all about. Andy (Ray Romano) is the big fish, or should I say moose, in this small town - that is until Mr. President Cole (Gene Hackman) arrives. Andy is your all-around honest guy. The handy man in town, he can fix anything from broken toilets to vacant mayor positions and is more than happy to do so. The only thing he cant seem to fix is his relationship with Sally (Maura

Yellowjacket Sports
Women Finish the Season with a Possible Playoff Berth
The Lady Ye l l o w j a c k e t s finished the regular season with a six-game winning streak. The winning streak kept them alive for a poss i b l e p l a y - o ff berth. Finishing By Jason Lillie t h e s e a s o n 1 6 Photo Editor 11, 10-7 in division play, places the Jackets ninth in the West Region Poll. To make tournament play, a team must be ranked eighth or above. The rest of the division has three to four games left on their schedules. First year head coach Melissa Slone has done an outstanding job with the team. During a transition year, such as when a new coach enters the program, there are usually growing pains with a team. Slone and the players have experienced these growing pains and handled them extremely well, with a possible playoff berth as the result. When you have change, you have to deal with it. You have ups and downs. I am pleased with how we finished out the year. I am very pleased with how we have come together as a team. Slone said. When asked about players who stepped up this season, Sloan said, I cant say enough about Robyn [Milne], Jenny [Langford], and Ta n y a [Petersen]. Jenny Skrifvars was also a big contributor. Shannon Harvey [a true freshman] patiently waited her turn and contributed at key times. The team came together at the end of the season and really started to click. Slone said that the high point of the season for her personally, as a coach, was watching the team grow as individuals and as a team. They have grown on and off the court, said Slone. To finish the year with a six game winning streak shows how much weve grown, Slone added. The Lady Jackets have had an outstanding season. With a first year coach and a young team with no seniors, the season could have turned out differently. The players and coaching staff came together, overcame adversity, and finished the season on a winning note and the possibility of a tournament berth. Congratulations are due to the team and the coaching staff.

Photos by Jason Lillie --Above left: Shannon Harvey and Jenny Langford wait for the play to develop during a game against MSU-Northern Above right: Shannon Harvey sets up Tanya Peterson for a basket during theYellowjackets 79-71 win over MSU-Northern Below left: Alisia Lordemann and a member of the MSU-Northern Lights scramble for a loose ball during a recent game Below right: Jennifer Skrifvars moves up the court during a game with MSU-Northern. The Jackets would beat the Lights to win their sixth straight game

A View From Section 106:

Will Torre be Sacrificed for Steinbrenners Spending Spree?
We l c o m e to Spring Training 2004. If you are the New York Yankees, and if you ignore your pitching staff or lack of a second baseman, you By Jed Barton have a team comSports Editor prised entirely of all stars: Kenny Lofton, Gary Sheffield, Bernie Williams and Hideki Matsui in the outfield, Jason Giambi, Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez in the infield, and Jorge Posada behind the plate. A team needs one, two, or maybe three genuine stars to be able to succeed, but as someone once said too many cooks spoil the soup. It was few years ago that the Yankees fielded World Series winning squads with good, if not necessarily great, players like Paul ONeil, Scott Brosus, and Jim Leyritz. Only one genuine superstar emerged from those teams, and that was Jeter. Granted, even then George Steinbrenner probably spent more than a reasonable amount of money to get those rings, but whatever it was, it pales in comparison to what has happened since the Yanks lost to Arizona in 2001. It seems to me that Steinbrenner has lost the fact that stats only make up part of the game; that team chemistry is just as important to success. This lineup he has purchased is really quite a mess, for in it he has at least six guys who are used to being front and center on their respective ball club, and one of those

Joe Torre reflects after world series loss. KRT campus guys, Rodriguez, is not even playing the position he won the Gold Glove at just last season. Even in their various glory days, the Yankees only had one or two superstar position players. Murderers Row had Ruth and Gehrig. The teams both just before and just after World War II had DiMaggio. The teams in the 1950s and early 1960s had Mickey Mantle. The rest of the players, while some were allstars and are hall-of-famers, took a back seat to these guys. There was a sense that this was a team and that the star, like everyone else, had a role to play. His job was to hit home runs, talk to the media, and be an ambassador of the game to the larger world while the others toiled in relative anonymity outside of those who knew something of the sport. Basically, what I am trying to say is that I think the Yankees are in trouble this year. This clubhouse is set up to have too many egos and attitudes. The real tragedy is that it is highly likely that the resulting string of losses is going to cost somebody his job. Not Steinbrenner, nor the Igor to his Frankenstein, Brian Cashman, but the man who will have tried to build a cohesive unit out of this group of pinstriped clad mercenaries, the heart and soul of the modern Yankee dynasty, Yanks manager Joe Torre.

Softball: Rough Start Not as Discouraging as One Might Think

By Jed Barton After going 4-2 during a season opening tournament at Las Vegas including wins over NCAA Division II programs, Colorado School of Mines, Pittsburgh State, and Longwood University, The MSU-Billings softball team dropped its first eight Pac-West Conference games on a trip to H a w a i i . They lost f o u r e a c h t o Chaminade and Hawaii-Hilo, leaving the Yellowjackets with a 4-10 record. I feel positive about our start. To win four out of the first six games is a big step for our young program, said head coach Jeff Amuend. The Jackets have been led by two juniors, pitcher Joey Ehnes and outfielder Sara Hanley. Ehnes,has a 3-5 record with a 1.42 ERA and 50 strikeouts though 14 games. The Great Falls native also took a no-hitter through 6 1/ 3 innings against Pittsburgh State, finishing the game with a one hit shut out. Hanley is batting .341 with 14 hits, including a triple, one RBI and three runs scored. With solid leadership on the field, says Amuend, there is no glaring problem in the way we play has me concerned. The spring break schedule for the Jackets is a busy one, including a tournament at Central Washington, and visits to Northw e s t N a z a r e n e , M e s a St a t e , a n d Western New Mexico. MSU-Billings will begin their home schedule this week with the Yellowjacket Invitational tournament. MSU-B will be in action Friday and Saturday taking on Dawson Community College, Valley City State, and Northern State University at Cenex Stadium.

Mens Basketball Finishes 2003-04 Season, Looks Toward Future

By Jed Barton Suffering from an injury to one of its starters,behavioral problems with two others, and a conflict of interest with a key reserve, t h e M S U - B i l l i n g s Ye l l o w j a c k e t m e n s b a s k e t b a l l s q u a d s a w i t s s l i m p l a y o ff h o p e s t u r n t o n o n e a f t e r d r o p p i n g t h r e e P a c - We s t Conference games during their final road trip of the season. Left with only seven players when Guard Cameron Munoz injured his ankle during a home win over BYU-Hawaii on Feb. 10, the Ja c k e t s b e c a m e f u r t h e r s h o r t handed following a 107-75 loss at Chaminade on Feb. 17, forwards Tr a e F o r t i e r a n d A l e x G a l l o w a y were sent home due to violations o f t h e t e a m s c o d e o f c o n d u c t . Playing with only six players, the Jackets then dropped another game to the Silverswords 82-78 on Feb. 19, and after releasing backup Matt Desin so that he could join the MSU-B golf team for its meet at Cal State Bakersfield played the final game of the road trip with just five players losing to HawaiiHilo 84-79. As is true every year the Jackets will have holes to fill d u e t o g r a d u a t i o n . T h i s y e a r s crop of seniors will be particularly hard to replace. Graduating this year are David Carse, Bill D a y, a n d J e r r i e t S k r i v f a r s . Skrivfars and Carse served as coc a p t a i n s o f t h i s y e a r s t e a m , a n d the three seniors have this year alone accounted for 928 points, 407 rebounds and 68 steals. As to finding their successors Recruits can sign a national letter of intent to play at MSU-Billings starting April 14.

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