The Collegian – Sept. 20, 2013

Collegian The

Friday, September 20, 2013

The Grove City College Student Newspaper

Vol. 74, No. 3

STEM Hall opens its doors Rebekah Fry

Contributing Writer

RYAN BRAUMANN/THE COLLEGIAN

Dr. Jan Dudt presents to an interested young student as his parents look on.

Grove City College held its first STEM Hall open house this past Saturday, Sept. 14. The science, technology, engineering and mathematics departments welcomed visiting prospective students for a day tailored specifically to their career interests.

The events included an address from Dr. Stacy Birmingham, the Dean of Hopeman School of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics, program overviews and laboratory demonstrations.

Along with gaining new insight into the various majors, parents and students were encouraged to visit the College’s newest academic building, STEM Hall. The 68,000 square foot facility features state-ofthe-art laboratories, instructional

room, and study spaces.

This year’s open house highlighted the physics department.

The presentation included an informative and interactive game show-style exhibition. Through a series of questions, it stressed the benefits of learning through hands-on research and interdisciplinary study. “[The open house] exposes the prospective students to the department at a greater depth while helping them to gain a better understanding of what it would be like to study at Grove City College,” physics department chairman Dr. Shane Brower said.

Brower also described the program’s goal of giving a memorable,fun,and beneficial experience.

Various students interested in STEM, page 2

Profs ready to counter Jewell highlights Barton once more giving spirit for

Brianna Buczkowski Contributing Writer

David Barton has long been a champion of Christian history and a player in the conservative right. An evangelical minister and self-taught historian, Barton founded WallBuilders, an organization based in his native Texas that produces books, CDs, DVDs, posters, curriculum and other materials that focus the idea that the nation’s founders argued against the separation of church and state.

Their website alone is a huge resource as its hosts links, documents and articles relating to their main focus. Barton has been a favorite among popular conservative figures and worked as an informal advisor to their campaigns. He has received accolades and recognition from big names such as Newt Gingrich, Mike Huckabee, and Glenn Beck.

Barton’s credibility was questioned last year when his book, “The Jefferson Lies,” published in May 2012, met with heavy criticism from secular and religious scholars. Eventually, lead

publishers stopped printing the book.

Among those who took issue with the claims in Barton’s book were two Grove City College professors, Dr. Warren Throckmorton and Dr. Michael Coulter ’91. Throckmorton, a professor of psychology, was following Barton’s career and critiquing the claims on Barton’s personal blog when “The Jefferson Lies” was published.

Throckmorton approached Coulter and together they wrote what is to date the largest critique of Jefferson: “Getting Jefferson Right: Fact Checking Claims About Our Third President,” published in July of 2012.

“The first duty of Christian scholars is to get the facts,” Throckmorton said. “The first thing you have to do is find out what the truth is.”

Many people, however, found the facts to be lacking in Barton’s book. After the book was recalled by the publisher in August 2012 (an unprecedented action which Throckmorton believes happened largely due to the positive reviews and atten-

tion drawn from his and Coulter’s book), Barton’s reputation was in free fall.

Many critics questioned his knowledge and called his teachings “pseudo history.” The History News Network labeled his book “the least credible history book in print” and for a while it was unclear whether he would rebound.

Over a year after the controversy about the recall of his book, it seems that Barton is back and is still loved and respected by conservative Christians. Earlier in the month, a Politico article profiled Barton’s rise back into the good graces of conservative circles and announced that he is still a “key ally of right.”

The article references a poignant moment at a faith and politics conference this past summer in Iowa in which Barton was seen on stage in a prayer circle with Senator Ted Cruz.

The conference included Senator Rand Paul, another highly influential and well liked figure among Christian conservative BARTON, page 2

anniversary

Claire E. Healey Editor-In-chief

Sunday Sept. 15 marked the 50th anniversary of President Richard Jewell’s first day on campus as a freshman. The occasion was celebrated by a special Vespers service featuring Jewell ‘67 as the speaker, whose message was titled, “The Charitable Heart.”

Nearly every aspect of the service dually fit the theme of Jewell’s message as well as the anniversary of his arrival as a student at the College. The hymn, “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” was sung, as well as Jewell’s favorite hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” The evening’s Scripture and responsive readings fit the theme of giving and were read by Jewell’s assistant, Betty Tallerico, and Dr. Robert Graham, the provost and vice president for academic affairs. The dean of the chapel,

Dr. Stanley Keehlwetter, also gave a personal introduction before Jewell’s sermon.

“It’s a great honor for me to be in this pulpit,” Jewell said at the beginning of his message.

Jewell began his talk by describing some of the influential figures involved in the foundation of the College, including Isaac Ketler, Joseph Newton Pew, and Sam Harbison. He also emphasized the pivotal contribution made by 256 residents of Pine Grove (Grove City), a collective $50,000 investment in the school that Ketler dreamed of building.

“Without all those charitable hearts, we would not be here today,” Jewell said.

Jewell outlined the contributions of various leaders at the College throughout their years, who through their time and money dedicated themselves to JEWELL, page 4

News

Life

E!

Perspectives

Sports

Coulter presents in Harrisburg about state government corruption.

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Zumba students shimmy their way to fitness for free.

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‘Pacific Rim’ proves to be unexpectedly larger than life.

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Is Rathburn truly being used to its full potential? Kyle Burko raises some questions.

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The football team is 2-0 for the first time in 9 years.

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The Collegian

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Coulter testifies to ethics panel

Sept. 20, 2013

STEM

Contributing Writer

for, but search teams are working to decrease that number.

Floods continue to cause devastation in Colorado

Mass shooting in Washington, D.C.

Recently, Colorado has experienced a tremendous amount of rain, which has caused destructive flooding throughout much of the state. There have been seven straight days of rain — some regions acquiring up to 20 inches of rainfall. Many residents who live in the mountains are unable to be rescued because many of the bridges and roads have been destroyed. There are at least six individuals dead and over 1,250 people unaccounted

Washington Navy Yard on Monday in which 13 people were killed and others wounded, including police officers. Aaron Alexis, 34-year-old Texas native, opened fire at the Naval Sea Systems Command headquarters, which is on the banks of the Anacostia River and only a few blocks away from the Nationals’ baseball stadium. Alexis also died in the Washington D.C. shooting. Since the shooting, many

Chemical experts from the United Nations recently confirmed that Syrian forces used sarin gas in the attack. They also noted that weather conditions at the time ensured that the maximum number of people were killed — 1,400 people died in the attack, including more than 400 children. The chemicals in the sarin gas stayed close to the ground and penetrated into lower levels of buildings and con-

In January 2012, Italian cruise liner Costa Concordia ran aground on the Tuscan coast, killing 32 people. The ship, which is twice the size of the Titanic, is in its final phase of being put upright in Italian waters.

The Italian Civil Protection Authority said the sea and weather conditions were favorable on Monday for the attempt, but the operation had to be delayed by three hours because of a storm.

a deeper look at the department arrived Friday for the “physics experience.” Professor of physics, Dr. Doris Wagner. and others eagerly helped the prospective students learn the lengths of “what you can do with a physics degree.” They also offered insight into their prospective journey towards a career in science.

Throughout the remainder of the open house, eager students filed in and out of doors, interacting with professors and current students and getting familiarized with Hopeman school.

The clear day added a touch of serenity as Student Ambassadors guided families around the campus, answering questions and giving advice. For the students, their dreams were one step closer to being fulfilled as they walked the pathways and visually participated in experiments.

“Today was a great opportunity for prospective students interested in these majors.We hope to have given them a chance to learn more about what Grove City College has to offer!” admissions department visit coordinator Krystle Cozad said.

STEM Hall represents the public launch of the largest capital campaign in the College’s history and is the first phase of a two-phase building project for science, engineering and math.

The official dedication was held this Thursday in the STEM Hall courtyard.

outlets for him to speak to the masses once more. In March of 2013, Barton gave a presentation to the Kansas state legislature about the biblical foundation of America and the founding fathers. His presentation dealt with the touchy topic that is the basis of his organization and which put him and his book on display for critics last year. He is scheduled to give his presentation in several more states this fall.

Barton, who claims to be

unaffected by the controversy regarding his book, has instead admitted that his writings had been taken out of context. Nevertheless, he refuses to retract or to clarify anything regarding his book or his teachings in general.

Beck’s publishing company, Mercury Ink, recently announced that they intend to republish “The Jefferson Lies,” although there are no current details or further information given as to when the book

will reach store shelves. Other rumors claim that Simon and Schuster, a publishing company that has personal ties to Beck, will also republish the book.

Most recently, Barton gave his endorsement to Barry Loudermilk, one of the candidates running for a seat in Georgia’s House of Representatives. The public endorsement of Loudermilk solidifies Barton’s return to the spotlight and political circles.

Though his critiques are still

many, Barton’s fans and supporters remain a significant amount..

The republication of his book would probably bring Barton back as a talking point for both secular and Christian academics.

Throckmorton and Coulter say they will come out with a second edition debunking Barton’s new book if it is indeed reprinted.

“Bring it. We’re ready,” Throckmorton said.

Halle Morgan

Contributing Writer

On Monday, Sept. 9, Dr. Michael Coulter, professor of political science, testified before a committee of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives regarding a series of ethics reform bills. Senior Sam Williams and junior Catherine Fitzhugh helped Coulter with his research for his testimony and traveled with him to the hearing.

“The point of these committee hearings about bills is for House members who are on the committees and those who wrote the [proposed] bills, and any other interested parties, to hear different ideas about the bills being proposed,” Fitzhugh

Megan Baak

BARTON

to under $50, expand the ban on appointing family members to positions to include a wider range of family (grandchildren, nieces, nephews, son-in-laws, etc.), increase the number of years former lawmakers have to wait before becoming lobbyist, and several others,” Williams said.

Pennsylvania has been under intense scrutiny in the past year due to a string of political scandals. For example, a judge was recently caught sending juveniles to exceedingly long sentences because he was getting bribed. There have been numerous issues of corruption with the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and several legislators have been recently jailed for giving out bonuses to aides

who worked on their reelection campaigns.

“Dr. Coulter gave thoughts on the various proposals and gave insight into whether they might have unintended consequences,” Williams said. “His experience both as a professor of political science and borough member for the local government gave him a valuable experience.”

“It was definitely an enlightening experience to see firsthand how the committees work,” Fitzhugh said. “It is something that I probably never would have had the opportunity to attend had Dr. Coulter not asked for assistance for his research.”

World News Roundup

circles.

Cruz has said that he does not engage in “narrow academic debates.”

“I’d expect someone like Ted Cruz to want to stand for scholarly integrity and not dismiss it … I think he is concerned he might offend people who like Barton,” Coulter said.

Others like Cruz have ushered Barton back in, which provided

C

said. “About five different people, representing various organizations, were invited to speak before the committee to discuss the several ethics reform bills that are under consideration.”

Coulter spoke for approximately ten minutes and answered questions afterwards.

He admitted that the whole process was “a little nervewracking,” but very rewarding.

Coulter spoke about different states that have adopted a strict ethics ban as well as the effects it had. For example, fewer people ran for office in the states with the strictest ethics ban, possibly filtering out some “crooked” politicians. “[The bills] include measures to limit gifts to lawmakers

flights have been grounded and departures have been delayed as a precautionary measure.

UN experts confirm use of A shooting occurred at the sarin gas by Syria

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structions where many people sought shelter.

Costa Concordia enters final stage of uprighting

Claire E. Healey Dan Johnson Josh Evans, Katie Koller Stephanie Pitman, Cristina Totten Grayson Quay, Rich Christman Kyle Burko, Esther Hoyt Ian Mikrut, Jessica Smith Chelsea Tarolli Andrew Eissen, Catherine Fitzhugh, Sarah Flenniken, Megan Hays, Michayla Wicker Zoë Gowen, Ryan Hampton, Brad Hummel, Noah Rasmussen, Paul St. Jean Marissa Candiloro Caroline Bennett Sarah Logie Nathan Bergey, Oliver Kent, Kirsten Malenke Erika Bastian Mike Trombly Faith Marquardt Victoria VanBuskirk Nick Hildebrand

Life ZUMBA

Sept. 20, 2013

Kara Mazey

Page 3

Dance your way to fitness for free

Contributing Writer “Party” is the one-word answer junior Rob Duguid gave when asked to describe the new free Zumba classes offered on campus. He, along with senior Brittany Sedlak, is instructing the class for Grove City College students. After three years of planning, discussing and organizing with campus administration, both Duguid and Sedlak have finally obtained a space to hold their Zumba classes for students.

Zumba, the Latin-inspired dance workout, is a fitness routine that has taken the fitness world by storm. It seems that almost everyone is into this craze, so it is only fitting that Zumba’s popularity is rising at the College.

“This class helps get you into a positive mindset,” Sedlak said. “It is wonderful to be a part of such an encouraging atmosphere.”

Duguid and Sedlak, both li-

censed Zumba instructors, teach the class together every Monday and Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Physical Learning Center Dance Studio, free of charge.

Thus far, they are extremely pleased with the turnout.

“On average, we have had close to 35 people attend our class and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” Duguid said.

Zumba is open to people of all shapes, sizes and ages. It truly is a “come-as-you-are” type of class. There is no need to have any technical training to reap the benefits of the workout.

“When it comes to Zumba, there is often this misconception that if you don’t have perfect technique or flawless coordination that you will look silly,” Sedlak said. “This really isn’t the case at all.”

The music played during a typical Zumba routine can range anywhere from classical to African spiritual. As the tempos vary along with the music, different exercises and dance styles are in-

Students line up in the dance studio to exercise on Monday night.

CAROLINE BENNETT/THE COLLEGIAN

corporated into the class.

Both Duguid and Sedlak agree that it is nearly impossible

to get bored while staying engaged in the routine, and they encourage all students to come

to their class for instruction and simply to “work out muscles you never knew you had!”

Isaac Kim said.

The overwhelming academics, to which they are not accustomed in high school, can also cause freshmen to want to pull their hair out.

“It’s so hard trying to figure out a set homework schedule,” freshman Katy Gibson said.

The moment RYAN BRAUMANN/THE COLLEGIAN freshmen arrive on campus, they Freshman Elizabeth Ruscitti works on her laptop. are bombarded students can be an exciting time; Rachel Watson with so many a time to start fresh, to make new new things to do, which adds to Contributing Writer friends and to try new things. the beginning of stress overload.

On the bright morning of However, in many cases, fresh“Finding a set schedule of Aug. 22, dozens of cars lined the men become overwhelmed with when to eat, study and have gates of Grove City College, full class work and soon become breaks is not something that of freshmen anxiously awaiting homesick. high school can teach you,” “I just really miss my great freshman Emily Hostetler said as the start of their college experience. Freshman year for many friends and family,” freshman she rushed off to class.

“There are just so many new responsibilities that I never had when I was home,” freshman Raquel Fereshetian added.

Out of the three million new students who enroll in college each year, 30 percent of that number drop out in their freshman year.This number is equivalent to about 625,000 students, according to classesandcareers. com.

So how do freshmen beat these statistics? Upperclassmen and freshmen share their advice for dealing with homesickness and time management.

“Skype is a great way to keep touch and make your homesickness go away,” Kim said.

“One of the hardest things I had to adjust to as a freshman was learning to study and appreciate my learning,” senior Student Government Association president Taylor Hunker said.

Members of Orientation Board as well as resident assistants are also available for tips on time management. Some

upperclassmen also advise freshmen to choose their extracurricular activities wisely — there is no need to join every club on campus or be involved in every activity.

“When I started my freshman year I was overwhelmed with all the clubs that I wanted to join, so I had to learn to pick and choose,” junior Erin Eperthener said.

In addition, the College provides a counseling center that encourages student walk-ins to help freshmen with the stress of college life. It is completely confidential and open Monday through Friday.

Though the beginning of college is a significant life change, a time of great stress, sometimes overwhelming, there are many resources available to freshmen to aid them in their growing process.

Adjusting to life as a college student

Did you know?

Breanna Renkin Contributing Writer Some of the world’s driest countries receive less than one millimeter of rainfall per year. Consequently, millions of people die each year from a lack of drinking water and from poor hygiene. To combat this problem, scientists have created fog harvesting to provide water to these countries.

Fog Harvesting

Fog harvesting transforms fog or dew into drinkable water. A large net constructed of polypropylene (a type of plastic) captures water droplets from the fog. The water droplets then drip into a gutter, which transports the water into a water tank.

While the system has been successful, scientists have developed even better techniques. Scientists have created a new system that places multiple nets into a single file line. A special coating on the nets will

prevent water from sticking to surfaces, which allows the water to drip into the gutter more easily.

Scientists believe that the new system will provide, on average, 12 liters of water per day. In addition, the new system will require low maintenance and will be relatively inexpensive.

By studying nature and insects that harvest fog, they hope to create a system that will produce even more water for dry regions.

Life

Page 4

Sept. 20, 2013

JEWELL

Dr. Christopher Yates encourages students to think critically.

OLIVER KENT/THE COLLEGIAN

Becoming seekers of truth

Zoë Gowen Staff Writer

“Truth never lost ground by enquiry” William Penn Cleverly situated in the biblical and religious studies suite, Dr. Christopher Yates, professor of philosophy, joined Grove City College’s faculty in fall of 2012.

Yates heard about the College through Dr. Messer, professor of English, a longtime associate and friend. His arrival has brought new vitalization to the philosophy department while challenging students’ critical thinking capabilities.

Raised in Virginia,Yates eventually found his way to the University of North Carolina where he received his B.A. in history.

History taught Yates to appreciate the relationship between ideas and culture. Particularly interested in intellectual history, Yates began questioning the relationship between faith and reason.

Shortly after his graduation from college, Yates married and moved to Washington, D.C. Living in a large city presented him with certain socioeconomic differences that he had not encoun-

tered before. Poverty, hunger and crime became real aspects of humanity that Yates sought to reconcile with Christianity.

In order to appreciate the accents of his faith, Yates received his master’s degree in theological studies at Regent College.While reading philosophy in seminary, Yates was struck by the pieces of truth he found. “[My calling is to] become a person who stands between Christian orthodoxy and the formative influences of various philosophical positions,” Yates said.

In order to be obedient to his calling, Yates worked toward his masters of philosophy at the University of Memphis, followed by his Ph.D. in philosophy from Boston University.

Now, as a new member of the community and busy father of four, Yates works continually at balancing his life as a professor. He attempted to establish a new approach to philosophy for Christian students.

Some argue that along with other general majors at a liberal arts college, philosophy has little value in the real world, but Yates disagrees.

“Students shouldn’t be afraid to risk pursuing what is alleged-

THINGS2DO Fri., Sept. 20 “Greekapalooza” 8 – 9:30 p.m. Ketler Rec

ly useless,” Yates said. “Our culture overemphasizes utility and through utility, profit.”

According to Yates, utility is overrated and philosophy’s real strengths lie through challenging its students.

“Critical thinking is the training for answering life’s questions,” Yates said. “Philosophy encourages Christians to continue seeking God and truth.”

Yates believes that reading the philosophical texts will help people to read the culture as well. Discussing big ideas with one’s friends is both important and relevant.

“Engaging with philosophy’s questions is not abstracting from the real world but rather engaging in real life,”Yates said.

When asked to share a piece of advice with students, Yates paused thoughtfully.

“Students need to attempt to understand difficult things,” Yates said. “The call to love your neighbor applies to ideas. Never assume that someone is wrong.

Always be ready to try to understand where they are coming from.”

the school.

He also described various alumni he has met with over his presidential term, who continue to give back to the school that had such an influential part in their lives. He acknowledged the members of the Board of Trustees who have dedicated time and wisdom to the school.

“I am so blessed to work with such a great group of men and women,” Jewell said.

Jewell outlined a few specific examples of notable individuals who made contributions to the College. One such man was Leo Stevenson ’34, who had a great devotion to the school. Upon his death, he left $8 million to the College in scholarships.

“He had a charitable heart … [he was] a man who loved the Lord, who loved our students, who loved this institution,” Jewell said.

Another man, a retired physician and member of the alumni band, called Jewell over the summer, wishing to give even more back to the College. Jewell recounted the words the giver told him.

“I’ve found my wife, I’ve found my life profession … and I’ve found my best friend … I’ve also found the Lord,” the alumnus told Jewell.

Jewell also recounted a specific instance as one of the most remarkable over his presidential term; that of a retired orthopedic surgeon who became a wine chemist, vintner and amateur astronomer who spent an entire day with Jewell in California relaying his life story and the family tragedies he underwent. The man donated a telescope to the College, among other gifts, and on the day the College received the telescope in the mail, the man died of Lou Gehrig’s disease.

“It was the most moving experience of my ten years ... It was a charitable heart that wanted to speak to the depths of his heart and his life that he shared with me,” Jewell said.

Jewell ended his message with the poem entitled, “The Bridge Builder” by Will Allen Dromgoole that summed up the theme of the charitable heart.

He once again emphasized that the school’s foundation would not have existed if not for the gifts of many men and women over the years.

“We stand supported by the love they have had for 138 years for this institution,” Jewell said.

Coming up in Chapel Tuesday, September 24th Mark Slaughter, evangelical communicator, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Thursday, September 26th Dennis Hollinger, president, Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary

Mon., Sept. 23 Central Blood Bank Blood Drive 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. IM Rooms

Sat., Sept. 21 Faculty-Student picnic 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Main Quad

Tues., Sept. 24 Special Event, Mark Slaughter 7 – 8 p.m. Crawford Auditorium

Sun., Sept. 22 Vespers “The Speaking Gifts” 6:30 – 7:20 p.m. Harbison Chapel

Thurs., Sept. 26 Alternative Chapel, Dennis Hollinger 7 – 8 p.m. Ketler Auditorium

I am looking for someone to help with light cleaning, 2-3 times a month.

Mature lady who lives close to campus.

Email for more information. bluewater11@zoominternet.net.

Thank you!

Sept. 20, 2013

Entertainment

Page 5

A day in the moonlight

Student spends summer working for professional theater Holly Boyce

Contributing Writer Sarah Zimmerman, a junior business management major and a theater minor, spent her summer working full-time for the Moonlight Amphitheatre, a professional equity theater in Vista, California. Zimmerman has loved theater since she was a child and had enjoyed watching Moonlight performances for 11 years.

Four years ago, Zimmerman applied to be a house attendant at the theater. Since then, she has become the assistant stage manager of the production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” this past summer. In addition to “South Pacific,” Zimmerman also helped with the productions of “The Wizard of Oz” as a Zealous Flying Effects fly operator, and as an electrician for Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein.”

Zimmerman’s jobs included checking attendance at rehearsal, taking notes on blocking and filling in for absent actors. Zimmerman also went through ZFX training to learn how to fly ac-

tors during “The Wizard of Oz,” making her one of the few tech workers in the country with this skill.

“I’m going to be picking you up by a really skinny piece of wire with this rope way over there and you’ve got to trust me,” Zimmerman told the actors.

Zimmerman met many interesting people at Moonlight.

“There was a man in a kilt walking around the stage. No one knew who he was or what he was doing there,” she said.

“After half an hour, our tech director said, ‘this is the guy who will teach you how to fly everything.’ Apparently, kilts are part of his company’s uniform, allowing him for a greater range of movement.” Zimmerman also met and worked with Randall Dodge, the actor who inspired her to become involved in theater when she was a child. He had advised her to not give up, if theater was where she wanted to be. Zimmerman applied this wisdom to getting her summer job as well. After applying for the job once before, she became the youngest assistant stage manager to be hired at Moonlight.

Zimmerman’s persistence is

Pick of the Week

Jinx

Lauren Farley Contributing Writer

WIKICOMMONS

evident in all she does, including her reaction to appendicitis during the opening week of “South Pacific.” She put off going to the doctor because she enjoyed working at Moonlight so much.

“I wanted to be there so badly,” she said. “You don’t take sick days in theater.”

Zimmerman learned how much trust it takes to put on a production.

“I feel so much calmer going

through this process after this summer where their budget is 10 times more than ours here [at the College],” she said. “It makes me feel a little more comfortable.”

Zimmerman will be the stage manager of the College’s production of “Les Misérables” and is also directing one of the Tau Alpha Pi One Act plays this fall.

Why you should watch ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ Grayson Quay

Entertainment Editor Movie director Joss Whedon’s new television show, “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” premieres on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 8 p.m. The series will be a part of the cinematic Marvel universe that began with “Iron Man” in 2008.

Disney, which acquired Marvel in the summer of 2009, plans to release a few more Marvel films and has labeled the films from the first “Iron Man” to last year’s “The Avengers” as “Phase One.” “Phase Two” began with this summer’s “Iron Man 3,” and will reach its culmination with “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” which Disney plans to release in the summer of 2015. Other upcoming “Phase Two” movies include “Thor: The Dark World” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.”

Whedon has directed three films. The first was “Serenity” (2005), which wrapped up the storyline of his canceled show “Firefly.” The other two, both released in 2012, included the large scale, effects-driven blockbuster, “The Avengers,” and the modest Shakespeare adaptation, “Much Ado About Nothing,” which was filmed at Whedon’s very own house in only 12 days.

Whedon is probably bestknown, however, for his television career. He created and served as showrunner of a num-

ber of successful shows, the first being “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1996-2003). Buffy (Sarah Michelle Gellar), a teenage girl whose destiny is to fight vampires, served as an inversion of the archetypal ditsy, blonde girl.

Through this show, Whedon illustrated his deep commitment to feminism. A spin-off of the show, “Angel,” ran from 1999 to 2004.

Whedon followed “Angel” with “Firefly,” a sci-fi Western that many consider to be his greatest show. It was canceled after only 14 episodes, although it still commands a strong following. The show, which chronicled the adventures of a group of outlaws and misfits on board the starship “Serenity,” promoted anti-authoritarian and antiestablishment themes.

“There’s always going to be some element of government conspiracy, because people are manipulated every day and they never even notice it,” Whedon said.

In 2008, he created the musical mini-series, “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog” with Neil Patrick Harris.

“Dollhouse” (2009-2010) was his next television show.

Whedon combined his mistrust of authority with a commitment to strong female leads. Eliza Dushku plays a “doll” named Echo who can be programmed with any personality, collection of

memories or set of skills. A company then offers these dolls to the rich and powerful to hire as lovers, spies, assassins or for anything else that the client wishes.

An avid fan of comic books, Whedon wrote several X-Men comics and contributed to the screenplay of “X-Men” (2000).

With experience in writing, directing, comic book development and the shaping of a metanarrative, Whedon was the ideal choice to take the reins of the cinematic Marvel universe. He also brought a wide following of fans from his TV shows along with him.

Now, with his new show “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” Whedon has created a place within the canon established by the Marvel films. S.H.I.E.L.D. is the government organization dealing with superheroes, led by Samuel L. Jackson’s character, Nick Fury. The organization’s name is an acronym for “Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division.” According to Agent Grant Ward (Brett Dalton), a character making his debut into the Marvel universe, the acronym shows “that someone really wanted our initials to spell out ‘shield.’”

The show follows a group of agents tasked with investigating instances of superpowers and other bizarre events. Agent Phil Coulson (Clark Gregg), who was presumed dead at the

end of “The Avengers,” somehow survives and leads the team.

Rounding out the squad are pilot Melinda May (Ming-Na Wen), engineering expert Leo Fitz (Iain De Caestecker) and biochemist Jemma Simmons (Elizabeth Henstridge).

Each team member has a unique set of skills, but none of them has any type of superpower. This was a very conscious decision on Whedon’s part. According to Whedon, he modeled the show after an episode of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” called “The Zeppo.”The episode focused on characters who were less important.

“The people who are ignored are the people I’ve been writing as my heroes from day one,” Whedon said.

One of the biggest questions brought to mind is how Whedon’s anti-authoritarian views will influence a show in which the protagonists are all government agents. In a world where superheroes save New York City from invading aliens, this show’s tagline asserts that “Not all heroes are super.”

If Whedon’s past work gives any indication, “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” will contain superbly written characters and storylines and make an exciting addition to the Marvel cinematic universe.

Weekend begins their sophomore album, “Jinx,” with little apology. While several bands put a buffer track at the beginning of an album to ease their listeners into their sound, Weekend starts right off with their single, “Mirror.”

The opening track starts off on the ambient side, but it is not long until the mantra, “I feel sick, sick, sick, sick, in my heart,” takes one straight to the center of a crowd who sings those lines straight back.

Rather than the opening track for an album, this is the first song on a set list meant to rally fans.

While “Jinx” is packed with some timeless, refreshing angst, other tracks key primarily into the uplifting, positive and distorted shoegazing sound in what seems to have become the norm in indie music. This can especially be seen in the track, “Celebration, FL,” where the track name prepares the listener for the almost complete departure from the driving guitar riffs and melancholy nature of all that preceded this point on the album. But underlying even this track, Weekend seems to peddle their discreet aggression. Buried beneath the floating suggestion to celebrate are the lyrics, “All this human living’s grinding at my soul / Had it in my heart until I lost control.”

Since Weekend merges different musical tones onto one album, it is tempting to suggest that the album appeals to everyone. While that may be true, that conclusion cheapens the overall quality of “Jinx” by selling it to mass appeal. Rather, the album strives to communicate real life problems with a longing for the simple life, seen in the lo-fi mucking of fundamental concepts in imperfect cohesion throughout the album.

Page 6

Through the Lens

Art at Pew Local artists display their creations at Pew Fine Arts Center in the 22nd Annual Artists Exhibition.

Sept. 20, 2013

Sept 20, 2013

Through the Lens

Page 7

Olde Town Art Walk

PHOTOS BY CAROLINE BENNETT AND SARAH LOGIE/THE COLLEGIAN

Last week’s art walk hosted by Olde Town merchants showcased the work of over 20 regional artists.

Page 8

Entertainment

Recreating the monster

Big bots battle ‘Pacific Rim’ surprises Ryan Hampton Staff Writer

Movie poster from Boris Karloff’s 1931 film, “Frankenstein.”

Jacob Sziráky

Contributing Writer The clouds hid the sun and rain came down in drenching sheets. As I climbed the many steps back to my dormitory, lightning crashed and thunder rolled with every step I took. I made my way down the dark hallway to my room, and here I saw the monster come to life.

However, the monster I saw was born on the screen and not in a laboratory. To me, Boris Karloff ’s “Frankenstein” (1931) was a perfect movie choice for such a dreadfully dreary day.

“Frankenstein” is the wellknown story of a scientist who tries to play God.The film opens with Henry Frankenstein (Colin Clive) and his hunchbacked assistant, Fritz (Dwight Frye), digging up freshly buried corpses for use in his scientific experiments. In the original novel by Mary Shelley, Dr. Frankenstein’s first name is Victor and his assistant is Igor, but Universal studios elected to change the names.

While Henry is experimenting, his fiancée, Elizabeth (Mae Clarke), and best friend, Victor (John Boles), investigate Henry’s disappearance. They start at Henry’s old medical school, where they inquire of his former teacher, Professor Waldman (Edward van Sloan).

The professor tells the pair that Henry left the college due to the lack of school support for his experiments to bring life to the dead. The trio then head over to Frankenstein’s tower

only to arrive moments before Henry begins his insane experiment. Shortly after the monster (Boris Karloff) comes to life, they discover that the monster is dangerous due to the violent and abnormal brain that was used in its creation. The rest of the film consists of the monster escaping and the many attempts of the local villagers to destroy the creature.

In order to fully appreciate James Whale’s “Frankenstein,” one must keep in mind that the film was not designed with modern viewers in mind.Today’s standard for horror films is drastically different from what was considered scary at the time of the film’s release.

The 1931 film was so horrifying that a brief introduction preceded the film to prepare viewers. A video recording of a sharply dressed man (Edward van Sloan) greeted the audience and warned the viewers that what they were about to see might frighten and shock them.

He then prompted those who did not think they could handle it to leave the theatre.

With today’s rating system, this film would probably only be rated PG, if that. As special effects capabilities in the film industry advanced, audiences became progressively more desensitized. Regardless, this film is still a cinematic treasure.

While it may not frighten modern viewers, this film more than compensates by inspiring other emotions. When the monster sees sunlight for the first time, and the viewer sees the

WIKICOMMONS

look of wonder and joy come across his face, he cannot help but feel it too. Equally poignant is the creature’s fear and sorrow when the light is taken away and replaced with Fritz’s torch and whip.

Modern viewers can also enjoy the single-minded drive of Henry Frankenstein to accomplish his goals. Forsaking everything else in life to accomplish a goal is risky in any situation, whether it is academics, sports or even relationships.

Even the monster itself can inspire empathy. From its “birth,” it was feared and hated because of its abnormal brain and terrifying appearance. Fritz even frequently tortured it for sheer pleasure. As much as the monster was hurt by people, he also flourished as a result of being shown kindness, which shares the message that everyone is shaped by how they are treated.

Despite the fact that several factors of this film are outdated, such as scare tactics, cinematography and even acting, it is still skillfully made, with many themes worth exploring. “Frankenstein” is over 80 years old and yet it is still regarded as a timeless classic. If today’s audience considers the tastes of their predecessors, feels for the plight of the characters and appreciates everything that made this old horror film an icon, they will be saying for a long time: “It’s alive, it’s alive, IT’S ALIIIIIIIIVE!”

Sept. 20, 2013

“Pacific Rim” is one of those rare movies that lacks pretension. One of summer 2013’s biggest blockbusters, Guillermo del Toro’s film about big robots (“jaegers”) fighting bigger aliens (“kaiju”) never seeks to transcend its premise. Indeed, “Pacific Rim” features some of the most spectacularly ridiculous sci-fi moments ever committed to film, and yet they all come across as elegant rather than clunky. The robots are massive, but still sleek and attractive, almost like mammoth versions of the suit from “Iron Man” (2008).

The aliens are predictably reptilian, but compact, agile and aweinspiring.

Crafting appealing monsters is a more important and difficult feat than some may imagine. There are innumerable examples of deformed and overly-complex sci-fi creatures which detract from a film’s merit. Del Toro, on the other hand, has crafted a spectacle with no wasted space or movement and which does not become an eyesore after two hours of viewing.

Del Toro has been heavily influenced by an early love of comic books and creature-features like Ridley Scott’s “Alien,” and he channels the best parts of the scifi genre in his most recent film.

“Pacific Rim” is also aided by its trim 132 minute running time. Del Toro manages to resist the impulse to which some directors fall prey – that of dragging an inherently ridiculous feature past the 150 minute mark. Those additional 20 minutes make the difference between a cool sci-fi flick and a pretentious monstrosity.

The film also benefits from the work of British actor Idris Elba, best known for his immortal portrayal of Stringer Bell in the HBO series, “The Wire” (2002-2008). Elba can transition seamlessly between serious and melodramatic work, but he has most recently shown a penchant for the latter, as seen in Kenneth Branagh’s “Thor” (2011) and Ridley Scott’s “Prometheus” (2012).

Elba can brood and give rous-

ing speeches with equal proficiency, both of which he does at length during the course of the movie. Yet what he does best is bring a charisma to his role that is extremely important for the film’s credibility. It is very easy to envision Elba leading mankind’s resistance against a seemingly unstoppable alien invasion, and “Pacific Rim” benefits as a result.

Of course, the reason people pay to see movies like “Pacific Rim” is for the spectacle, and this film delivers a spectacle more incredible than any other recent movie. These aliens (which rise out of the Pacific Ocean’s depths – another interesting element) and robots are larger than anything previously committed to film. Even the film’s most stoic viewers will be impressed by the scope of the fight scenes.

The cinematography grounds the action, allowing the viewers to follow what is happening instead of confusing them with rapid-fire changes of angle. Each alien and each robot has unique and important features, such as a hidden pair of wings or a third arm, which illustrates the care Del Toro put into the creation of “Pacific Rim.” The film’s $190 million budget is a testament to the faith Warner Brothers had in Del Toro’s visionary fantasy, and that investment was returned (with interest) over the course of the summer.

Obviously, sci-fi epics like “Pacific Rim” are not for everyone, but Del Toro imbues his film with enough humanity to make it accessible to a broad audience. It would have been easy for “Pacific Rim” to have been too cliché or clunky, but instead it possesses a unique elegance that is embodied in the sleek robots which grace its advertisement posters. While it is inherently ridiculous, it is also the kind of movie that is likely to outlive summer 2013 – even if home viewing may not be able to completely recapture the movie theater spectacle.

Perspectives

Sept. 20, 2013

Page 9

What exactly are Come and take it ‘Christian activities?’

Scott Alford

Contributing Writer

Kyle Burko

Perspectives Editor Since its unveiling, Rathburn Hall has generated much discussion on campus. The new building, which opened in 2012, is visually appealing with its purple and blue pastel-colored shingles, multi-colored sandstone construction and classic Gothic architecture. The interior of the building, made up of meeting rooms, offices, and the Morledge Great Room, matches the upscale appearance of the building’s exterior. At $7 million, this is no small investment. Students must wonder how exactly they benefit from this new structure.

Many students who casually walk past Rathburn have revealed the same peculiar observation: it looks and feels empty.

Venturing inside confirms this inkling. Most of the rooms stand pristine, untouched and seemingly unused. While designating Rathburn for “Christian activities” is definitely ambiguous, it is also the college administration’s decision to determine what the building is used for. The question remains, however: what are “Christian activities” and why should a building be set aside for such a purpose (especially when Harbison Chapel houses all worship services and other events related to spiritual life)?

Perhaps much of the confusion arises from the fact that many ministry groups on campus do not have meetings in Rathburn, whereas activities such as “Professionalism Night” are housed in Rathburn but do not seem to fall into the category of “Christian activities.” The school website says the following: Rathburn is “available to all campus groups ... the facility creates expanded

SARAH LOGIE/THE COLLEGIAN

opportunities including summer conferences, church retreats and special speakers for ministry programs.”

On more than one occasion, curious or uninformed students have entered Rathburn with the intent of studying or reading, but after a short while found themselves escorted out by Rathburn staff members who claim the building is off limits for studying and socializing.

For students who view their lives as integrated wholes, who find in their friends, studies, sports and activities a sense of calling and blessing from God, the idea of “Christian activities” sounds like a misnomer. For many students, every aspect of life is given by God, and there is no division between faith and public life. From this mindset comes the question, where is the need for a specific building dedicated to “Christian activities” when everything we do is somehow an image of our relationship with Christ? Here is where the seemingly empty building comes into play.

For many Christian students who see wise stewardship as their calling (Adam and Eve in Gen-

Editorial Claire E. Healey Editor-in-chief On a cold January morning in Gresham, Oregon, Aaron Klein sat down with two customers in his bakery, Sweet Cakes by Melissa. The two women were a bride-to-be and her mother, ready to select a wedding cake for the daughter’s upcoming nuptials. Klein asked the usual questions about the wedding – when would it take place? What was the groom’s name?

After the second question, there was an awkward silence.

The women admitted that the wedding would actually be between two brides. Klein apologized, stating that he and his wife, Melissa, the owners of the

esis 1 and Matthew 25 are two of many passages on this topic), the current use of Rathburn Hall would not be condoned.

Raising questions as to how a $7 million building is best used becomes more prevalent when the idea of ownership – of having a stake in Grove City College – is at the forefront of our thinking.

While it may sound like inflating a small issue out of proportion, the question of Rathburn Hall persists and will persist as long as students walk past this quiet, pristine building on their routes around campus each day. Perhaps allowing studies or quiet conversation would not be such a terrible idea, as long as students’ intentions are clear.

Hopefully the College can utilize all of its resources to the best of its ability in the years ahead.

More importantly, may we never view our lives as divided into “Christian activities” and secular activities because God does not see it that way. “For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.”

(I Sam. 16:7 ESV)

Despite being one of the most influential thinkers in modern American politics, few people know the name “Saul Alinsky.” His book, Rules for Radicals, outlines a brilliant community organizing strategy. His condensed instruction is “Go home, organize, build power and at the next convention, you be the delegates.”

President Obama did just that. While many conservatives mocked him, the president successfully executed Alinsky’s approach. Over two election cycles, Barack Obama won the White House by assembling a giant coalition of radical progressives who will shape future elections. Now, they are coming for Texas, an electoral giant and potential swing state.

The conservative and libertarian movements must meet them head on. The activism organization “Battleground Texas”—an offshoot of President Obama’s massive campaign machine—is mobilizing to convert the state of Texas for progressivism. It’s time to fight back. It’s time to tell them to “come and take it.”

While conservative Texans and the Republican Party insist the Lone Star State will never turn “blue,” Colorado offers startling precedent. A decade ago, the GOP dominated every level of government in Colorado.

“We controlled everything but the courts,” former Director of the Colorado Republican Party, Allen Phillip, explained.

“Nobody seriously thought Colorado was anything but a right leaning state.”

Yet by the election cycles of 2006 and 2008, red tides had turned blue.

Now the Democratic Party plans to employ this “Colorado Model” across all fifty states, and they’ve set their sights on the great state of Texas. If the Republicans lose Texas, the GOP will cease to exist as a national brand that can compete in presidential elections and the party

may go the way of the Whigs.

“Battleground Texas” is a progressive organization founded

by Jeremy Bird — national field director of “Obama for America.” The strategy: seize the low-hanging fruit. From Bird’s perspective, young people and minorities who are registered are votes left on the table. He’s taken Alinsky’s advice to “Go home, organize, [and] build power.”

If Battleground Texas appeals to the growing Latino vote which leans heavily Democrat, Texas could see a massive turnaround in a few election cycles.

Senator Cruz (R-TX) explained, “If Republicans do not do better in the Latino community, in a few short years, Republicans will no longer be the majority party in our state.”

Texas could easily see the same results as Colorado.

The Republican Party has failed to adequately respond to this new threat. While surveys and cultural studies suggest conservative issues of competitive free markets, school choice, protecting life and gun rights appeal to Latinos, the Republicans have failed to reach out to this growing base of voters. If Texan Republicans refuse to change their methods, the party itself risks extinction.

The Republican Party needs to adapt. Conservatives can learn from Saul Alinsky’s 13 “Rules for Radicals” about how to strengthen their political activism. A colorblind conservative message of smaller government and economic opportunity appeals to a broad swathe of the United States, from the broadly libertarian-minded millennial to immigrants seeking the American Dream. Conservatives can win these communities by emphasizing economic opportunity and individual freedom.

Texas must be defended as a bastion of freedom. This is not a battle that conservatives can afford to lose. While “Battleground Texas” is trying to take over the heart of the Lone Star State, it time for conservatives to fight the movement on every front, and say, “come and take it.”

Embracing our place in a secular world bakery, would not serve a cake for the lesbian couple’s wedding, due to their Christian beliefs. Without a word, the bride and her mother got up and left.

By the beginning of February, the Kleins had received a complaint letter from the Oregon State Department of Justice. Their story hit the national news, and both hate mail and support began to roll in from all corners of the country. Entire social media pages run by progay activists were created with the intention of shutting down the bakery.

Those same activists targeted other wedding vendors in the Gresham area, threatening to boycott them if they did business with the Kleins. Though the Kleins also received tre-

mendous support from other Christians and well-wishers, at the end of August, they made the decision to shut down their bakery for financial reasons.

Though the Kleins maintain that they have nothing against homosexuals, and refused only because the incident involved gay marriage, they face an official discrimination complaint from the Oregon Labor and Industries Board.

If they are found guilty of discrimination, they could face fines up to $50,000. The Kleins aren’t the only couple in this situation. Jack Phillips, the owner of a bakery in Colorado, faces possible jail time for refusing a wedding cake to another gay couple.

It’s not only if you’re in the

wedding industry. Everywhere we go, in everything we witness, we are reminded that our culture is continuing to rapidly secularize around us. This is the world we face as we graduate and move on to graduate school, full-time jobs and missionary work. However, we have the power to fight back.

You’ve heard it before - we all know that we attend a school that is very unique. Many of our peers share our Christian beliefs, and though we may have some differences theologically, on the whole we are far more similar to one another than we are to a great part of society.

Here at Grove City College, we have the chance to delve further into our Christian faith, to arm ourselves with the power

and the knowledge necessary to combat the rising tides of secularism all around us.

The Kleins are not the first people to encounter intolerance for their beliefs in 21st century America, and they certainly will not be the last. They serve as an example as to why arming ourselves with a defense of the faith is so important.

So embrace your time here.

Make the most of every opportunity to strengthen your faith. Whether you are a freshman, a senior or somewhere in between, you have the tools to make the most of such a unique Christian experience.

The world will present us with constant challenges, and as Christians, it is imperative that we are ready for them.

Perspectives Why we forget everything

Sept. 20, 2013

Page 10

Mark Mariani

Contributing Writer This article is dedicated to the student who struggles to meet the demands to memorize vast quantities of information. However, he must understand that this article will not entirely provide help for the person needing to understand complex concepts as much as it will for the person needing to memorize brute facts.

Imagine a truly diligent student who desires to get a head start on the week’s reading (which no doubt includes all Grove City College students) and completes his assignment a week before it is due. The day before the quiz, he realizes that he forgot almost everything he had previously read. In an attempt to recollect the information he read, he lightly skims back over the textbook the night before the quiz, praying the information finally sticks. A week later, a disheartening grade alerts this diligent student that the in-

formation, hard as he tried to remember it all, did not stick.

Now he reverts to note-taking. Sure, it is laborious, but it must improve his results on the next reading quiz.

“I must remember this information,” he exhorts himself.

notes on paper, which detracted from his other studies (or friends, girlfriends, parents, extracurricular activities, Humans vs. Zombies, etc.).

Image-based memory techniques work by creating memory palaces. Put simply, a memory

of wine, baseball and textbook.

Instead of repeating those items in his head laboriously, there are a few tricks he must utilize.

First, the reader needs to access his creative mind. Second, he must picture a well-known geographic location in his mind

ILLUSTRATION BY BRANDON FERRIS

Six hours and 30 pages later, he returns to the quiz with confidence and joy, and receives a more rewarding grade. Regardless of his grade, the student’s methodology was entirely wrong. He either read the information faithfully but could not remember what he read a few days later, or he wasted an unnecessary amount of time taking

Letters to the Editor policy Letters to the Editor should be sent to collegian@gcc.edu. They must be received by midnight on the Sunday before publication and must not exceed 300 words.

The Collegian reserves the right to edit or hold any letter. Anonymous letters will not be printed.

GREEN EYESHADE AWARD This week’s award goes to senior Ryan Hampton for an excellent review of “Pacific Rim” as well as his consistent contributions to The Collegian as a staff writer.

The Collegian Green Eyeshade Award honors student contributors who have demonstrated consistency and excellence in their work.

Ryan Hampton

Each week, The Collegian editors select a reporter, photographer or staff member who has made a valuable contribution to the paper. The award makes a valuable addition to a portfolio or resume.

W illow Hills Golf Center Inc. *Driving Range * 9 Hole Executive Par 3 * Pro Shop * 18 Hole Putt-Putt *Baseball Batting Range*

10 George Jr. Rd. Grove City, Pa. 724.748.3375 WillowHillsGolf.com

palace is nothing more than a real geographic location wellknown to the reader and used to mentally store information.

A memory palace can be one’s house, the walk from the dorm to class, the Hall of Arts and Letters, etc. For example, the reader attempts to memorize the following list of items: a chair, desk lamp, can of tuna, laptop, bottle

and store the above items in a particular place. Third, when placing each item in the room, he must make the item “larger than life,” as it were.

For example, with the chair, he imagines it 10 times its normal size, popping out of the roof (this makes the information stick). He does this for each item, placing it in the room and

making it memorable. He even gives the bottle of wine legs and makes it tap dance.

After this exercise, the reader has a memory palace full of memorable items to which he has access by taking a mental stroll.

The reader might be curious how memory palaces apply to his studies. Each student, based on his major, will need to contextualize memory palaces differently.

The science major will have an easier time in his endeavors because he has concrete facts to remember like body parts or cell structures, for which images are easier to create. For the philosophy student, on the other hand, transferring an abstract concept into an image is no easy task (although it can certainly be done).

If all else fails, read “Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything.” It will add to one’s academic arsenal and will perhaps make studying and rote memorization an enjoyable process.

Virtue & vice at the ballpark Dr. Paul G. Kengor

Professor of Political Science Editor’s note: This article first appeared in the Pittsburgh TribuneReview.

“If there be (no virtue among us), we are in a wretched situation.”

James Madison This isn’t a year for complaints about the Pirates. So, forgive me while I complain not about the Pirates but a certain element of Pirates fans. This “element” is not unique to Pirates fans; it’s symptomatic of many fans nationwide and, sadly, our culture and nation at large.

I’m prompted by a recent piece in the Trib sports section (“Biertempfel: In left field, they have Pirates’ backs,” Aug. 4), accompanied by a photo.

The photo captured Cardinals left fielder Matt Holliday being taunted, mocked and jeered by Pirates fans after a ball bounced off his glove and into the bleachers, giving Andrew McCutchen a home run. The image is ugly: children, men, women, young and old, faces contorted, making hand gestures and hissing at Holliday.

They appear in all shapes and sizes, skinny and fat, barefaced and unshaven — united in their nastiness. Other than their vitriol, the one thing they share is that not one could have caught the ball Holliday chased down, certainly not without tripping like fools into the left field wall.

For that matter, none could hit a

ball like Holliday.

It reminded me of hecklings past. I’ve never forgotten a moment when a college roommate unloaded on an innocent member of the opposing team’s bullpen at Three Rivers Stadium. The poor pitcher had done nothing other than sit with a visible name on his jersey. That was enough for my roommate to unleash himself on this fellow’s character.The unsuspecting ballplayer did his best to ignore the unmerited insults. My buddy kept it up: “Hey, (name deleted), you (expletive deleted)!” I told him to knock it off.

I recall a later game my wife and I attended. A young Hunter Pence was in right field for the Astros. An unattractive threesome decided to have some “fun.” Pretending to applaud Pence and cheer him on, they got his cheerful attention. Once they did, the bile flowed. A stunned Pence was unsure how to react. Even crueler were the fans observing the spectacle.

They laughed and joined in, relishing the wretched display.

I felt bad for Pence. He was green, unseasoned in assimilating the hate that athletes must endure with heroic virtue in the onslaught of vicious fans harboring no virtue at all.

In the end, it really comes down to that — virtue vs. vice.

To overflow with vice is to be vicious. That’s what I too often see at the ballpark. Certain fans can be not only mean but cra-

ven. Imagine the cowardice: The fan is unrestrained. So long as he doesn’t physically assault the much stronger ballplayer, his behavior is largely unchecked by authorities or conscience. The ballplayer, however, must instantly become a paragon of virtue, turning the other cheek and enduring a litany of barbs from vulgarians slopping down beers and choking down hotdogs and nachos.

If he dares to react in the way he ought to be forgiven for reacting, he will find himself attacked not just by the protected cowards who couldn’t hit a curveball but by ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Twitter and every sports show in America. That athletes don’t react, or do so only rarely, is an extraordinary testament to their character.

“Each new generation,” says John Howard, senior fellow at the Howard Center for Family, Religion, & Society, “must be trained to be virtuous.” Unfortunately, laments Howard, society today “is such that becoming virtuous is a monstrous chore.”

When virtues are not inculcated — at home, at school, in media and in popular culture — they lay desiccated upon the national landscape and we are in a wretched situation. The ballpark is no exception.

Sports

Sept. 20, 2013

Page 11

Late losses leave women’s soccer looking for form

Brad Hummel Staff Writer

The Grove City College women’s soccer team will rebound after suffering late losses to Allegheny College on Sept.

11 and Baldwin-Wallace College on Sept. 14. The Wolverines lost to each team by a score of 2-1, and will seek to improve their record before the start of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference season in early October.

In a visit to the Allegheny Gators in Meadville, PA, the Wolverines fell behind early when Michelle Holcomb finished a running pass by Jessie Thiessen in the 16th minute. The Gators carried their lead into the half.

Grove City equaled the hosts in the early stages of the second half on a bouncing ball header by senior striker Sam Weber near the low right post. Senior Shannon Bishop was awarded an assist for the 47th minute score.

Both teams gave themselves significant scoring opportunities in the second half, with the Gators leading in second-half shots 11 to 7, but with neither team able to capitalize, the match moved into extra time.

Allegheny and Grove City

CAROLINE BENNETT/THE COLLEGIAN

Sophomores Kristin Thomas (5) and Madison Zajicek (15) go to battle with Baldwin-Wallace. recorded three shots a piece in extra time, but it was the Gators’ Hannah Zangara who scored the game-winning golden goal in the 100th minute on a rebounded shot from Olivia Cushman.

The late loss for the Wolverines cast a pall over Grove City’s match against the Baldwin-Wal-

lace Yellow Jackets at College Field. After falling behind early against Allegheny, Grove City turned to veteran forward Becky McManus to score in her first start of the 2013 season against Baldwin-Wallace.

McManus’ fast, unassisted strike from near the edge of the

Wolverines finish nail-biting victory Katharine Hussey

Contributing Writer

Both teams had plenty of chances – visiting BaldwinWallace University even outshot Grove City 22-14 – but only one shot found the back of the net.

A stand full of spectators at College Field anxiously watched as sophomore midfielder Seth Loew lined up to shoot a penalty kick with less than two minutes left in overtime. The Grove City College men’s soccer team had battled Baldwin-Wallace in a non-conference match-up for 90 minutes without any real results, but this shot could finish it.

Loew sent the ball sailing past Baldwin-Wallace goalie Tyler Beaton, winning the game for the Wolverines and triggering a roar of excited cheers from the crowd. The penalty kick was the only goal scored in the tough match against the Yellow Jackets last Saturday, resulting in a final score of 1-0 in favor of the Wolverines.

It was the first time the Wolverines had won an overtime match on a penalty kick since

Oct. 29, 2011, when Andrew Quinn’s PK downed host Westminster College 3-2.

Loew’s winning goal was one of 10 total career goals scored by the sophomore —four of which were scored this season alone.

Loew, however, gives much of the credit to his teammates, including sophomore forward Tim Shackleton.

“We were moving the ball well,” Loew said. “Shackleton made that great run to the goal,

“Everyone was hustling, we were distributing the ball well and we got a lot of good opportunities to score and then we finally finished one at the end.” and that’s where we got fouled and got the opportunity to finish the game.”

In truth, there were several key players who contributed to Grove City’s win over its opponent, one of which was sophomore goal keeper Ben Weaver.

Weaver had an impressive seven

saves during Saturday’s match, bringing his career save total to 40.

Even more striking, Weaver did not concede any goals despite the high pressure situations he faced during the course of the match. He was able to turn away the Yellow Jackets a number of times while several strikers crowded the box. Weaver has been consistently successful, only forfeiting one goal so far this season.

Loew attributed the team’s success not only to Shackleton and Weaver but also to the hard work and team effort of all the players.“Everyone [was] working hard, from the back to the offense,” he said. “Everyone was hustling, we were distributing the ball well and we got a lot of good opportunities to score and then we finally finished one at the end.”

The men hope to continue their success in their match next Tuesday at home against Heidelberg University.

18- yard box allowed the Wolverines to gain a goal advantage in the 17th minute. In a game which featured sharp shifts in possession, Grove City was able to hold their advantage through half time.

In the second half, the Yellow Jackets proved that they

were equally capable of stinging when a fast goal by Lindsey Mikula equalized the score at the 59 minute mark. With neither team able to generate significant scoring opportunities for much of the second half, the match appeared to be headed toward extra time before Baldwin-Wallace’s Kari Trivisonno also made an unexpected solo score in the 82nd minute. Unable to regain their form in the dwindling minutes of the game, the Wolverines fell to the Yellow Jackets, and in so doing dropped their season record to 1-4.

With tough non-conference opponents still to come for the Wolverines — including defending NCAA Division III national champion Messiah College — the team will have chances to regain their 2012 form before the start of play in the PAC tournament on Oct. 4.

Grove City’s postseason hopes and their opportunity to return to the national stage will depend on their ability to battle conference foes and contend for a PAC title.

Grove City will host regional powerhouse John Carroll University in a home match Saturday at 1 p.m. at College Field.

Support Your Wolverines!

September 20-26

Women’s Tennis Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m. ITA Regional Championships (A) Tues. 4 p.m. Westminster (A) Wed. 3:30 p.m. Saint Vincent (H) Volleyball Sat. 11:30 a.m. Franciscan (A) Tues. 7 p.m. Penn State Behrend Cross Country Sat. Women’s - 12 p.m. Men’s - 12:45 p.m.

Buffalo Invitational (A) Women’s Soccer Sat. 1 p.m. John Carroll (H) Wed. 4 p.m. Mount Union (H) Football Sat. 7 p.m. Washington & Jefferson (H) Men’s Rugby Sat. 1 p.m. Franciscan University (A) Women’s Golf Sat. TBA Westminster Invitational (A) Mon. TBA Grove City Fall Invite Men’s Golf Mon. TBA Penn State Behrend Invitational (A) Men’s Soccer Tues. 4 p.m. Heidelberg (H)

Sports

Page 12

Sept. 20, 2013

Off to the races

Wolverines enter conference play undefeated Paul St. Jean Staff Writer The Grove City College football team has done something not accomplished since 2004 – the team opened the season 2-0.The Wolverines traveled to Anderson University in Indiana and dominated the Ravens 42-0 in week two.

Senior quarterback Brian Pell led the Wolverines to a 7-0 lead on their first possession of the game when he hit senior wide receiver Kahlil Ervin for 12 yards and a touchdown. Ervin had a career high five catches for 57 yards and a touchdown during the game. After the first touchdown, the visitors never looked back.

“I’m really excited about the statement we made as a team this week,” Pell said. “This game was a good example of the camaraderie we’ve built as a group, and each player is getting better at doing his job on the field.” Not to be outdone by the offense, the Wolverine defense played an exceptional game, keeping Anderson’s offense off the field, never allowing the Ravens within scoring distance. Over the course of the game, the defense dialed up seven sacks and held Anderson to only 12 first downs.

Senior linebacker Ben Manwaring led all defenders with eight tackles.

In the second quarter, the Wolverines scored rushing touchdowns on back-to-back possessions. Pell, who rushed for 42 yards during the game, ran 15 yards for the first of his two touchdowns. On the very next drive the Wolverines went 53

ROBERT AUDIA/GROVE CITY COLLEGE

Seniors Ben Manwaring (53), who had eight tackles last week, and Ryan Althausen (42) have helped anchor a solid Wolverine defense. yards in seven plays and scored offensive woes, including junior three out of fifteen attempts.

“Right now, we’re a good on an 8-yard run from sopho- defensive end Reese Swatsworth With the edge the Wolverines team with a lot of experience more tailback Steve Maskrey. In who had a career high 1.5 sacks possessed in the second half, they and growing momentum,” Pell two games this season, Maskrey in the game. Unfortunately, were able to give valuable field said. has amassed 168 rushing yards Swatsworth sustained an MCL experience to several of their The timing of this win is esand three touchdowns, including sprain on his second sack and second string players, most no- sential for the confidence of the two scores against the Ravens. may be unable to play during tably sophomore quarterback Grove City coaches and players Maskrey finished the half with Saturday’s game against Wash- Josh Peach, who rushed for 61 alike. The team will open cona 1-yard touchdown run to put ington & Jefferson College. yards in his brief appearance. Pell ference play against rival W&J at Grove City up 21-0 at the half.

The Wolverines dictated the managed the offense very effecIn the second half, the Wolver- pace of the game from the be- tively during the game, going 7 p.m. on Saturday on Robert ines did not let off the gas. Junior ginning, causing Anderson play- nine for thirteen on third down E. Thorn Field for the annual safety Joe Diani and sophomore ers to commit numerous penal- conversions and scoring on six night game. W&J is a difficult cornerback Slater Simek each ties. The Ravens were penalized of seven trips into the red zone. contest every season, but having had an interception, with Simek 11 times, amassing 107 penalty The victory at Anderson gave opened up their schedule 2-0 for breaking up three other passes. yards to Grove City’s 40. An- the Wolverines a shut out on the the first time in nine years, the Several Grove City defenders derson also had very little luck road for the first time since a Wolverines feel that the sky is the limit. contributed vastly to Anderson’s on third downs, converting only 1999 win at Thiel College.

Christian Locher swings away Ian Mikrut Sports Editor

A returning letter winner this season, junior Christian Locher of the Grove City men’s golf team led the Wolverines last year with a 77.2 average, had seven top-five finishes, finished 12th at the Presidents’ Athletic Conference Spring Championship and earned medalist honors at the McBride-Behringer-Allen Invitational at Grove City Country Club with a score of 73 en route to leading the Wolverines to a victory at the Invitational.

Locher has been playing golf for as long as he can remember, receiving his first set of golf clubs at the age of five or six, and playing on famous courses such as Pebble Beach in California, Oakmont Country Club,

Bethpage Black Course in New York and TPC of Scottsdale in Arizona.

Although he has never shot a hole in one (the pipe dream of anyone who has ever picked up a set of clubs), Locher has come close after shooting a 2 on a par 5 hole, a notable feat.

While his individual accolades have been impressive, golf was not Locher’s original ambition upon arriving at the College.

While he competed for four years of varsity golf at Mars Area High School in Mars, PA, Locher was also a basketball standout. A 1,000-point scorer during his time with the Fightin’ Planets, he spent his freshman year as a member of Grove City’s varsity basketball team.

“I had considered trying both, but after not playing golf fresh-

man year, I realized how much I missed golf,” Locher said. “That summer going into sophomore year I decided I would play golf instead of basketball.”

This season, the Grove City men’s golf team has been off to a hot start, taking 2nd place out of the 11 teams that competed at Sinking Valley Country Club for the Penn State Altoona Invitational Sept. 9. The team finished with a total score of 317, falling just five strokes under the victor Penn State Behrend.

Just two days earlier, the Wolverines took the title at their own Fall Invitational held at the Grove City Country Club, finishing with a team score of 311.

Thiel College shot a 317, earning second place.

Locher has helped push the Wolverines in each of these

events, shooting a 71 while earning medalist honors at the Grove City Invitational and tying for 8th place individually at Penn State Altoona, where he shot a 78.

“Individually, I hope to improve from last year and be able to compete at a high level in every tournament,” Locher said of his goals this season. “Collectively as a team, our goal is to get better each and every tournament and to compete for a PAC championship and a chance to go to nationals.”

Locher and the Grove City men’s golf team resume action Monday, Sept. 23 at the Penn State Behrend Invitational.

SPORTS INFORMATION

Junior Christian Locher tees off.