Connections
A Newsletter for the Viterbo University Community
Vol. 14, No. 8 October 16, 2000
Humanities Symposium to Focus on Gender, Race, Ethics in Sports
No one would argue that sports play a major role in our society. That’s why this year’s Humanities Symposium at Viterbo will focus on "The Sporting Life: Gender, Race, and Ethics in American Sports."
Scheduled for Feb. 5-8, the symposium features a variety of events designed to spark discussion about sports as it relates, in particular, to gender, race, and ethical issues. Faculty are encouraged to make the events part of their curriculum.
Although program planning is ongoing, to-date the following events and speakers have been confirmed:
Mon, Feb. 5:
• All-school Humanities Symposium Opening Presentation, 2-4 p.m., FAC Main Theatre. Speakers include: Tonya Moten Brown, a vice president at the University of Minnesota-Minneapolis and the first African-American woman to lead a Division IA athletic program. Brown also led the investigation into allegations of cheating among men’s basketball players at that university; and Sarah Sullivan, a psychology instructor at UW-La Crosse, who has extensively researched the portrayal of female athletes in the popular media.
• Mariah Burton Nelson, 7 p.m., FAC Main Theatre. Nelson is a female sportswriter and former college and pro-basketball player. She is the author of several books, including, The Stronger Women Get, The More Men Love Football, Are We Winning Yet? and The Unburdened Heart: Five Keys to Forgiveness and Freedom. A book-signing will follow the presentation.
Tuesday, Feb. 6
• Dennis Biddle, a former negro ballplayer and founder of Yesterday’s Negro League Baseball, presentation times to be announced. Biddle played for the Chicago American Giants as a pitcher. He earned the nickname "The Man Who Beat the Man Who Beat the Man" when he beat Gerald McKinnis, a pitcher who was one of the few to beat Satchel Paige.
Wednesday, Feb. 7
• "The North American Hunting Ethic," Jim Posewitz, evening presentation in the FAC Main Theatre. Posewitz will appear at the symposium in conjunction with the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership Lecture Series. He is the author of Beyond Fair Chase ? The Ethic and Tradition of Hunting. In addition, Posewitz, a retired Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks biologist, is executive director of Orion, the Hunters’ Institute.
Thursday, Feb. 8
• Jackie Robinson, Mixed Blood Theatre, time and location to be announced. A professional, multi-racial theatre from the Twin Cities. The Jackie Robinson story is one of nine educational plays the group tours and presents to youth throughout the country.
Watch future Connections for more information. A more complete listing should be available in brochure format by the end of November.
Everyday Heroes: Putting the Polish on Service
When Greg Schams and Mike DeLine strolled through the local Walgreens store at the beginning of the semester and decided to purchase nail polish to paint their toes, it was because they were bored and looking for something different to do. Little did they know their venture would turn into a humanitarian effort.
"[Guys painting their toes] is one of those things that sparks conversation," said DeLine. "You talk about it with others and you get great ideas."
It wasn’t long before the two had cooked up a scheme to charge people a dollar to guess the color they’d painted their toes. Initially, they considered it a great way to earn extra money but later decided the money would best be spent as a donation to charity. They decided on Place of Grace, a local Catholic Worker House, when they remembered hearing about it from Religious Studies Professors Earl Madary and Tom Thibodeau on orientation weekend.
"We thought it was good because it was a local charity," said DeLine.
Thus, the "Toenail Game" was born. Each week, DeLine and Schams, both freshmen, develop a list of nail polish names. People pay $1 to guess, from the list, the color each of them is wearing. On any given week, DeLine and Schams might be wearing different colors, the same colors, or one or both might not be wearing any polish. Then, on Fridays, they reveal their "colors" by wearing sandals—rain, shine, or snow.
Guesses do not go unrewarded. Persons who guess both colors correctly receive the Grand Prize: A Marcus Theatre movie pass and a large pizza from Domino’s. Those who guess only one color correctly receive a movie pass.
"It takes time; we need to be aggressive. We try to go door-to-door in the dorms each week," said DeLine. "If people haven’t tried the game, they should."
Schams agreed, "Even for an impoverished college student, $1 is not a lot and if enough people do it, we’ll have a lot of money to give to Place of Grace at the end of the semester."
Presently, they earn between $50-60 dollars per week but prizes come directly from the profits. The rest, typically half or more, will be donated to Place of Grace at the semester’s end. DeLine and Schams are seeking prize donations so the money raised can all be donated.
Their goal is to raise awareness for the needs of people in the La Crosse community. "As much as it doesn’t look like it, there are a lot of needy families in La Crosse," said Schams.
In fact, before the two started their fundraiser, they didn’t know much about Place of Grace, or the needs of the community. Now they can often be seen at Place of Grace helping clean, wiping tables, vacuuming, and picking up the trash around the neighborhood.
"There’s a good fuzzy feeling you get when you’re doing something good and not getting paid for it," said Schams.
"More people should get involved in Place of Grace. They’d love to see more students there…not just because of the community service requirement. It does work great to fulfill the service requirement but you shouldn’t just stop going after that," said DeLine.
If you want to play the game or donate a prize, contact DeLine at ext. 3143, by email at madeline, mailbox 203, or contact Schams at ext. 3244, by email at gcschams, or at mailbox 490.
Maykut Honored by YWCA
Viterbo Psychology Professor Pam Maykut has been chosen to receive the YWCA Outstanding Achievement in Education Award at the annual “Tribute to Outstanding Women” banquet in early November. Maykut was nominated for the award by Mary Hassinger, dean of the School of Letters and Sciences, and a member of the Women’s Studies Committee. Watch future Connections for more information.
Congratulations, Pam!
Missoula Children's Theatre's The Wiz of the West Auditions are Oct. 30
Missoula Children’s Theatre is holding auditions for the production of "The Wiz of the West" this Monday, Oct. 30 from 4-6 p.m. in the Viterbo Main Theatre.
All area children, regardless of ability, are welcome to audition for this production. Approximately 50 roles are available for local students. All students (ages K-12) are encouraged to audition. No advance preparation is necessary. If selected, most students will participate in a week of rehearsals in preparation for the show, which will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the FAC Main Theatre.
"The Wiz of the West" is a down-home, country retelling of the classic story, "The Wizard of Oz."
Founded in 1970 by Jim Caron who still serves as executive director, the Missoula Children’s Theatre is a touring company that invites children in its host community to be the stars in the show. Its members teach children how to perfect the craft of professional theatre while building self-esteem through experience. Missoula Children’s Theatre’s mission is to provide quality educational, entertainment, and enrichment experiences through the performing arts.
"The Wiz of the West" is part of Viterbo’s Arts for Young America program and is sponsored by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Wisconsin. It is supported, in part, by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin.
Ticket prices are $9 for adults and $7 for children 12 and under. For more information, contact the Box Office at ext. 3100.
For more information on auditions, call Michael Ranscht at ext. 3741.
Kudos to...
...the following faculty who received tenure from the Board of Directors at its Oct. 9 meeting:
• Mary Christianson, nursing
• Joyce Heil, nursing
• Earl Madary, religious studies
• Jane Mrozek, nursing
• Gail Rogers, nutrition and dietetics
• Susan Rush, theatre
• Lisa Schoenfielder, art
...Viterbo student Ruben Anderson, whose web site was featured in the Technology section of last week’s La Crosse Tribune. Anderson’s site is for college students and Coulee Region residents interested in local events, performances, and activities. Local bands are encouraged to submit an audio sample of their work which the public can access on the site for one month. The web address is www.LazyNites.com.
Seventh Day Lunch Discussion
What are you doing for lunch next Monday? The Seventh Day lunch discussion group will meet at noon in MC 419C to discuss " Why Should/Should Not the Left Vote for Ralph Nader?" presented by Dick Ruppel, English.
Upcoming Seventh Day Discussions include: Tuesday, Oct. 31: "Why I’m Voting for George W. Bush, and Why You Should Too," John Nebeck, business; Wednesday, Nov. 8: "It’s Not a Shame, It’s a Crime: Discussion of Domestic Violence in La Crosse," Alice Benson, English.
It’s Time for Cappuccino
Connect Club's Daytime Coffeehouse will be open for business in the MC lobby on Friday, Oct. 20. Connect members will be brewing cappuccino and tea from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. It's a great opportunity to support alcohol/drug prevention efforts on campus and enjoy some of the best coffee in La Crosse.
Quit and Win Support Group
A support group meeting for participants in the Quit and Win contest is scheduled from 3-4:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 16, at the SDC. Students involved in the Quit and Win smoking cessation program will share ideas for staying smoke-free, managing cravings, and finding support for their efforts. Survival kits and treats will also be available at the meeting for contest entrants.
Congratulations to Roland "Buzz" Nelson
The Board of Directors at the Oct. 9 meeting approved an action to name Roland Nelson Vice President for Enrollment.
"Buzz" has been at Viterbo since 1975 when he was originally hired to teach in the English Department. Later, he moved on to direct the start of Viterbo's first venture into evening and adult programming. He has been with the Admission Office as its director since 1985.
Please extend your congratulations to Buzz on this newest appointment.
This Week on Campus:
• Social Work Club’s taco sale is next Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the MC Lobby. The cost is just $1 per taco, or $1.50 for a taco and a soda.
• Gundersen Lutheran’s emergency and critical care air ambulance service will land in the Viterbo Courtyard this Friday at noon. The flight team will discuss flight medicine and related careers.Tristate ambulance also will visit Viterbo on Friday. A Specialty Care Transport Nurse and two paramedics will discuss emergency and paramedic medicine. The visits are sponsored by the Viterbo University Biology-Chemistry Club.
Nominate Leaders
The Student Life Recognition Committee is continuing its Student of the Month Awards in an effort to recognize students for their community service, activities, and outstanding involvement (non-academic achievements). The awards are part of the SEAL (Students Excelling in Activities and Leadership) Awards Program.
Staff, students, and organization members are encouraged to nominate students for monthly awards honoring their outstanding achievements and efforts. Nominees can be from the staff, student’s or organization’s own area. Please send a brief paragraph describing how the student went above and beyond the call of duty as a leader or helper. This information may be sent to the Residence Life Center or emailed to jwramaker. Nominations for each month are due by the 25th of that month.
The Value of Service by Fr. Tom O'Neill, Campus Ministry, and Ron Amel, Chemistry
On the bank of Lake Neshonoc, under the big top on Aug. 28, Viterbo staff, faculty, and administration gathered for the annual "Day-at-the-Lake" where we considered the four Franciscan, Viterbo values of contemplation, service, hospitality, and stewardship. During small group discussion of these values, many points of view about each were expressed and suggestions made regarding implementation.
What follows today, and will follow in subsequent issues, is a summary report of each value. Today’s summary is on "service" from Dr. Ron Amel.
The FSPA document on mission entitled "We Are Called" defines service as that which we share with one another while participating in God’s world. The sisters have modeled service well on campus and in the community for many years, and we need to follow their lead in furthering this value. Students can get a degree at any school, but at Viterbo we want to offer the personalized attention and concern that would model service to the student. This is something the we can do to set us apart as an educational institution.
At the Day at the Lake, it was stated that an orientation toward service is best "caught, not taught." Faculty, staff, and administration can model service for each other and for our students, enabling a "domino effect."
What can each of us do to be of service to our colleagues, students, and the community? The following are several service-oriented activities you might consider:
• Show genuine concern for the needs of others.
• Be supportive and helpful to your colleagues and students.
• Recognize and support service activities that you see around you.
• Invite others to join you in your service activities.
• Look for student service opportunities and make them known to students.
• Incorporate an aspect of service into student papers or projects.
Campus Ministry by Fr. Tom O'Neill
• The Catholic Student Coalition of Wisconsin (CS-COW) is hosting a Catholic student retreat on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 4-5 in Whitewater. Students interested in more information should please contact one of the campus ministers.
Please remember the needs of others this winter: WAFER, Place of Grace, FAC Pantry, AIDS pantry. Items may be left in the lobby of San Damiano Chapel for distribution. Thank you for your continued support and generosity.
• Habitat for Humanity the Viterbo work day will be Saturday, Nov. 4. Watch for further details.
• In your kindness please remember those who have died and those who mourn them: The brother of Sr. Rochelle Potaracke. May they rest in peace.
Faithful citizenship
“We urge the United States to pursue…more concerted efforts to ensure the promotion of religious liberty and other basic human rights…[and] more consistent financial and diplomatic support for the United Nations, other international bodies, and international law.”
U.S. Catholic Bishops'
Administrative Board
Thanks for Carrying the Torch!
Together, we did it! Thanks for making a decision to support the Viterbo Employee Campaign. This year, 193 employees participated by making a pledge to Viterbo. This breaks the previous all-time record of 191 pledges set just last year. Please know that you have helped us remain among the top schools in the nation for employee support.
Out and About
Viterbo has joined area businesses, schools, and service organizations in bringing Chris "Crazy Legs" Fonseca, a comedian with cerebral palsy, to La Crosse for three shows on Thursday, Nov. 9. A performance for the general public will be at 8 p.m. in the UW-La Crosse Mitchell Hall Gym. Tickets are $5 in advance and are available from Riverfront, Quillin’s stores, WWTC Student Life Office, and UWL Cartwright Center. Tickets also will be available for $6 at the door.
Roses are Red
Come on Viterbo—show that special someone you care. Buy a dozen, beautiful long-stem roses from the La Crescent Rotary Club. Cost is only $15 and delivery is free! Roses will be delivered Oct. 27, but you need to order by Oct. 20. Contact Pat Kerrigan at ext. 3041, email him at pgkerrigan, or stop in MC 228.
'Tis the Season--Mark your Calendars
• Plan to "shop ‘til you drop" on the Holiday Shopping Trip to the Mall of America on Saturday, Nov. 11. The bus will leave the FAC parking lot at 7 a.m. and return at 9 p.m. The cost is $16 per person and seating is limited to 55 people. RSVP to Marcia Brodt at the MC reception desk. Payment must be included with your reservation.
• Friday, Dec. 15, won’t be a "silent night" when you and your colleagues gather for the Viterbo employee Christmas Party at the Midway Motor Lodge. Watch your mailboxes for more details.
Classifieds
Wanted: Babysitter needed in our home (UW-L area) 10-15 hours per week in the mornings for two children. Schedule is flexible. $5/hr. Need own transportation, experience, and references. Call 796-3043 or 796-0885.
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