Frequently Asked Questions

Isn't Chips supposed to be spelled CHIPS?
Actually, no. Chips is simply the name of the publication and is not an acronym. We might blame the California Highway Patrol (CHiPs) [Wikipedia] for the confusion.

Where does the name Chips come from?
The name Chips comes from the saying "Let the chips fall where they may." According to The Dictionary of Cliches by James Rogers, the phrase means, "Never mind the consequences: speak your mind or do what you think must be done." The American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer says, "I'm going to tell the truth about what happened, and let the chips fall where they may." This phrase comes from a metaphor from the late 1800s about chopping wood: "the woodcutter should pay attention to the main task of cutting logs and not worry about small chips." Our motto, since the first issue in 1884, has been "Valeat quantum valere potest" or "Let it pass for what it is worth."

Can I write for Chips?
Yes! Hiring for staff writers takes place at the end of each semester. Keep an eye on the paper and the Web site for announcements. If you want to give writing a try, stop by a writer's meeting on Mondays at 5:15 p.m. to pick up a story.

Can I advertise with Chips?
Yes! We depend on advertising for a portion of our budget and would be glad to run your ad in the paper. For our current rates, please e-mail our ad representatives at chipsads@luther.edu or call the office at (563) 387-1044.

Can I subscribe to Chips?
Yes! The current rate is $15 per semester or $25 for the entire academic year. If you would like the paper version of Chips mailed to you, send an e-mail to chipsads@luther.edu or simply send payment along with your current address to:

SPO Chips
Luther College
700 College Dr.
Decorah, IA 52101

What is the Chips production schedule?
Chips aims to publish 11 or 12 times a semester. Chips comes out every Thursday, with production on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evenings.

Can I submit a story idea?
Chips accepts story idea submissions e-mailed to chipsedt@luther.edu, but we cannot guarantee that any stories will be printed. Coverage is at the discretion of the editor of each section.

Does Chips accept submitted articles or announcements?
Submitted articles generally present only one side of the story. People may volunteer to write articles, but not for an event they are involved with. Chips does not print announcements or write articles to promote events or groups. Ad space may be purchased to print announcements.