Point Park Globe Fall 2018 Issue 5

IN THIS ISSUE: PAGE Point Closet gears up for

@PPUGlobe September 26, 2018

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President Kearns given “highest form of reprimand”

By Mick Stinelli Co-News Editor

United Student Government (USG) President Kaylee Kearns narrowly avoided an impeachment trial at this week’s USG meeting following censures submitted by an anonymous senator.

The censures - the most serious form of reprimand for a USG member - concerned a number of unreported meetings that occurred over the summer, a failure by the executive cabinet to pass a summer budget and the executive order which removed ticket subsidies to the Pittsburgh Playhouse.

Six charges were brought to Parliamentarian Alex Popichak, which he brought forth in four motions to the USG senators to vote on.

Two motions passed, falling just short of the three censures required to impeach. One censure said President Kearns failed to consult with the legislative body during the summer term.

The second charge asserted there was no summer budget passed prior to the beginning of summer session, citing this as a direct violation of a constitutional by-law which states, “The Legislative Body may allocate any funds to be spent by the

a brand new semester of giving back Amanda Andrews asks the question: has Trump become a dictator?

ESPN and Arby’s reps talk sports sponsorships to students Issue 5

USG swears in new senators amid censure USG

By Amanda Andrews USG Beat Writer

Joie Knouse | The Globe

Kaylee Kearns, USG President, listens to the allegations brought forth during censure proceedings at the weekly USG meeting on Monday.

President and Vice President during the summer session by majority vote of Legislative Body.”

One motion, which leveled three charges against President Kearns’ executive order to remove Playhouse ticket subsidies, called the decision unethical and claimed Kearns failed to represent the student body. The motion was shot down after a tie-breaking vote by Vice President Brittany Arp. The final motion was ta-

bled for next week’s meeting following the release of a report on summer meetings from President Kearns and Vice President Arp. The censures were met with resistance from Dean of Student Life, Michael Gieseke, who urged the senators to consider the weight of the decision they were about to make.

He clarified that, although the president is required to seek permission to spend money, President Kearns requires no

permission to take the opposite action.

“The president of USG does not have to ask permission to not ask for money,” Gieseke said to the senators at the meeting.

Gieseke also questioned the anonymous senator who filed the complaints, wondering how they acquired the information behind their charges and why they didn’t debate charges among the senators before filing them for censure.

The United Student Government (USG) legislative meeting was in session on Monday for an unusually long duration, lasting around two and a half hours. Many items of timely importance were part of the legislative body agenda, including the induction of the newly elected senators, the USG internal budget, debate over clubs’ statuses and most notably four motions, two approved, to censure the USG president.

Nine new senators of varying classes were officially sworn in at the meeting. Freshman senator Matthew Johnson detailed the election process that he went through to be chosen for this position.

“As a freshman, we didn’t really have a full-on election,” Johnson said. “We just implemented our name into the ballot. Then students from our school went online and voted, we were sent a link; and then that link we sent to people and then they followed the link and

CENSURE page 2

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Distrikt Hotel houses students until Keystone Flats is complete

By Nardos Haile For The Globe

An unfinished Third Avenue student housing project has forced about 100 Point Park University students to live in hotel rooms for the past three weeks.

Since the beginning of August, students have been staying in the Distrikt Hotel, located a few blocks from Point Park University’s campus, since construction delays on the Keystone Flats may not be finished until the end of October.

“It’s kinda annoying because there’s a sense of living on your own and right now we’re all just like pushed off to the side,” sophomore Amanda Means said. “Like we don’t really exist in the school culture because we’re up the street; we don’t know what’s going on.”

Means, whose major is undecided, is one of many students displaced and living in a hotel. She says she knew the building was unfinished, “but not to the extent that it is.”

“They promoted it like it would’ve been done by the time we all got back to school,” Means said.

The Keystone Flats management declined to comment on this story.

“I feel fine about it. Some people are really mad, and some people are like me and don’t really care,” sophomore acting major Mary Shay McWeeney said.

“I mean it is a little annoy-

ing and I expected to be in an apartment. I chose to live in an apartment; I didn’t want to live in a dorm. But the woman who we’ve been in conversation with has made it very clear. She’s been extremely open to all of our requests and all of our complaints.”

For students like Means who came back to campus earlier than most for sports, it was an inconvenience.

“For me, the first two weeks I get here early because I play soccer,” Means said. “So, the first two weeks I knew I was going to have to live somewhere else because it wasn’t going to be ready.”

Means, McWeeney, and the other students were told by management in mid-July the building would not be ready until September.

“They said we are working on getting you a food stipend at Point Park University; you are booked at the Distrikt Hotel, which is a couple blocks from campus,” McWeeney said. “You are going to be getting free breakfast in the mornings, and since the apartment comes with in unit laundry, they also have provided a once-a-week laundry service.”

Students have been living in one bedroom hotel rooms paid by their monthly rent and described by both Means and McWeeney as “small and crowded.”

“A bed and a bathroom and there’s like a little desk and a closet but it’s not very big,” Means said.

Gracey Evans | The Globe

Shay McWeeney, sophomore acting major, poses in her hotel room at the Distrikt Hotel. Her suitcases can be found packed to capacity on top of her bureau. McWeeney has made her room her own personalized space, and has decorated her desk and television with pictures to resemble a dorm.

The living situation is much more difficult for students who live further away.

“I live an hour away,” Means said. “I’d say it makes it easier because they [her parents] can help me out if I need something, but people that live in different states - they have all that stuff shoved in a small room.”

McWeeney, originally from California, mentions her and a friend’s seasonal belongings were put into a storage

unit before the summer began, but they have had to extend payment on the unit because of the unfinished housing.

“I mean I could put all the stuff in my hotel room, but it’s too small, and I don’t want to be any more crowded than I already am,” McWeeney said.

But McWeeney expressed she is understanding of her circumstances.

“They [the Distrikt] feel extremely frustrated as well,” McWeeney said. “It doesn’t

feel like they’re screwing us over, it just feels like nobody wanted this. Even the tippy top people at this company that own this building, they’re really frustrated.”

Public record says the Keystone Flats on Third Ave is owned by BT Pitt Third LLC, a subsidiary of BET Investments one of the country’s largest home builders. In 2016 BET Investments bought the building and a year later the

HOTEL page 2

Weather Forecast Today: Thunderstorm H 74, L 49

Thursday: Cloudy, H 68, L 51 Friday: Sunny, H 72, L 53 Saturday: Rain, H 76, L 53

Sunday: Partly Cloudy, H 70, L 54 Monday: Partly Cloudy, H 77, L 62 Tuesday: Scattered Showers, H 71, L 59

Point Park

GLOBE

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NEWS

WEDNESDAY, September 26, 2018

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

No end in sight for Advisors challenge senators’ actions dinator, said the rush to make housing construction such serious charges was like from HOTEL page 1 Pittsburgh Business Times reported that BET Investments had begun demolition over the summer and was planning to hire a construction company.

In late April of this year, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported there were four endangered peregrine falcon birds on the roof of the building and renovations of the building had to be shutdown.

The developers secured permits and removed the birds, which had halted construction for weeks.

Means says she has grown to accept her living arrangement, but it’s the lack of independence that is the real issue.

“That was the only thing I was really excited about, to live in my own place with a roommate, have a kitchen and be able to do everything I want in my own area and now it just keeps on getting dragged out, so I have to live in a hotel and do laundry and take it down the street,” Means said. “It’s just a lot of extra work, like it takes up a lot of time.”

McWeeney mentions small inconveniences as well, but has been trying to stay positive.

“It’s like a bad situation all around but you just have to be like alright this is what it is,”

McWeeney said. “We’ll live.

We’ll be fine.”

“I don’t think it looks good, to be honest,” Amanda Anderson, Director of Student Life, said. “But at the same time, they seem to be doing the best they can as far as taking care of - at least to my knowledge - with providing them [the students] with a place to be, food and those types of things.”

Anderson is responsible for the areas of residence life off and on campus. All potential housing on campus is currently full.

“If we can [help], we will,” Anderson said. “If anybody who had received that information wanted to move onto campus, we would have definitely accepted their contract and tried to find them a space, but I don’t know if we had any of those or not, but that would’ve been our protocol.”

According to Anderson, the slow construction could have happened to anyone.

“It’s a risk of construction, it’s the risk of filling a building before you have it secured,” Anderson said. “It’s definitely a risk anybody who’s doing student housing takes, especially if they try to fill the building prior to it

Nardos Haile nhaile@pointpark.edu

Internal budget passed from USG page 1 voted for the student they felt was best suited for the position.”

The swearing-in of the senators was originally planned to be one of the top items on the agenda list, but a motion from veteran senators placed this at the bottom of the agenda, due to the unusual circumstance of the censure.

The late induction of the new senators did not stop them from participating fully in discussions and even inquiring throughout the entirety of the meeting. Several senators, including Johnson, were very vocal and confident throughout, and in Johnson’s case not without due cause.

“In the past, I served as a state president of the Arkansas FBLA [Future Business Leaders of America] chapter,” Johnson said. “In that position I was the lead representation for 4,000 students; in that I learned what parliamentary procedure was.

I’m also a very outgoing person altogether, so being vocal during a formal USG meeting wasn’t really anything I was shy of. I got nervous of course, but everybody does. But I wasn’t really nervous about it.”

Besides the swearing-in of the new senators, USG approved its internal budget; although, at this time they do not know how much money Point Park University has allotted them due to the ongoing calculation of the student activity fee.

They do have a general idea of what the parameters of the USG budget will be, which is what the approved internal budget is based upon.

The Black Student Union and students working at the Playhouse sent representatives to the USG meeting to express their concerns with the USG’s handling of the internal budget, specifically that they felt USG had not provided organizations adequate funds as compared to last year. Playhouse box office worker Jeremy Rolon, a junior SAEM major, spoke against the recent move by USG to not continue to subsidize Playhouse tickets for students.

“‘Cabaret’ as of right now has nine sold-out performances, five that are remaining and three of which could be at this moment sold out,” Rolon said.

“So we’re already seeing that there’s a lot of interest outside, and there’s not going to be that much of a strain on the USG budget to pay for these shows.

Students should also not have to pay an additional amount for classes that require them to see the shows, unless it is already covered in their tuition bill.”

Rolon had claimed that the box office had not received any emails from USG, which USG has claimed to have sent. Rolon also said that attempts to find alternative donors and sponsors to cover costs have not been effective.

The weeks-long debate of Phi Beta Lambda’s status is still up in the air, and the motion to deactivate their organization was tabled at Monday’s meeting for the subsequent week as Parliamentarian Alex Popichak explained.

“We’ve been working with Phi Beta Lambda on hearing about changes to their constitution and [that] went radio-silent this past week,” Popichak said.

“In our committee meeting on Friday, the radio silence was all we had heard from this club[...] so the committee felt it was in the best interest to deactivate [it] because there was a lot of questions on what constitution they were using and what name they were using. I learned this morning that they completely had a change in their administration. I have learned that there are a lot of questions.”

A new club, Good Luck Have Fun eSports, received recognition from USG with unanimous support.

USG has planned a weekend retreat, which will leave on 2 p.m. Friday and return on 5 p.m.

Sunday. It has been described as a bonding weekend between newly elected and more experienced senators.

Amanda Andrews aaandre@pointpark.edu

Katie Williams | The Globe

Dean of Student Life Michael Gieseke questions Parlimentarian Alex Popichak on the specifics of his censure report.

from CENSURE page 1 “This is very serious, and it sets a tone,” Gieseke said, noting the censures were occurring in front of a new class of senators who weren’t yet sworn in.

“This is their first day of joining this organization. Think about that.”

Montana Gabriele, a sophomore funeral services major and a senator for the School of Arts and Sciences, said she voted yes to censure President Kearns for failing to pass a summer budget.

At the meeting, Kearns defended this inaction because her predecessor, President Bobby Bertha, had not informed her of that requirement.

“Just because someone else did something wrong and got away with it doesn’t make it okay,” Gabriele said.

Gieseke defended Kearns’ ignorance of the by-law, saying that none of the advisors - including himself - had informed Kearns that what she was doing was wrong.

Brad Kovalcik, SAIL coor-

expelling a student without discussing what they did wrong.

He scolded the senators for holding Kearns accountable for one line in a 36-page constitution, challenging the senators on their knowledge of the USG rules and noting neither former President Bertha nor the USG advisors warned Kearns of this by-law.

“I felt like they [the senators] got to a point where somebody needed to say something like that,” Kovalcik explained.

Kovalcik said there was a stark contrast between senators raising concerns and immediately jumping to censure.

The first motion in the meetings charged that Kearns engaged in unethical behavior when she expressed that it was unnecessary to speak to senators before removing the Playhouse ticket subsidies. The Playhouse ticket subsidy was formerly taken from the USG’s internal budget.

“We have to ask the senators’ permission to spend funds, but we don’t need permission to not spend funds,” Kearns said in an interview with The Globe last week. The charge, which stated the power to decide the internal budget is left to the finance committee, specifically referenced this interview.

Kearns could not be interviewed for this story, citing a migraine following the USG meeting.

Mick Stinelli mfstine@pointpark.edu

NPR’s “1A” comes to Pittsburgh

By Carley Bonk Editor Elect

NPR’s “1A” host, Joshua Johnson, visited Pittsburgh to host a live show at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture Downtown last Thursday evening.

Johnson spent last week working alongside journalists at the local public radio station, 90.5 WESA, whose staff helped organize the event, according to General Manager John Sutton.

“We try to bring in some of the hosts, reporters and correspondents that appear on the NPR programs,” Sutton said. “1A is a relatively new program and Joshua Johnson is a very dynamic host. People are always interested in attaching faces to voices and learning about somebody that would not normally shine the spotlight on his or herself.”

Johnson and his team also held two live shows in the WESA studio in the South Side prior to the event. “Artificial Intelligence At Home in Pittsburgh” was the focus of Thursday’s “1A” show where Johnson spoke with local experts on Artificial Intelligence developed in the city.

“We’ve been very impressed and pleased with the thoughtfulness the ‘1A’ crew put into them coming here, meeting the WESA newsroom staff and sharing their insights on the work that they do,” Sutton said.

The event on Thursday evening ran similar to the typical “1A” set-up. The audience heard an early “Friday News Round-up,” where Johnson and his guests David Hickton, founding director of the Institute for Cyber Law, Policy and Security, Dana Brown, executive director of the Pennsylvania Center for Women & Politics and WESA’s government editor Chris Potter reviewed

current events.

On stage, the professionals commented on the Supreme Court nominee hearings of Brett Kavanaugh, the opioid epidemic, the Pennsylvania Catholic Diocese court filings, Amazon’s potential move to Pittsburgh and National Cardigan Day, paying homage to Pittsburgh’s own Mister Rogers.

As far as the growth of Pittsburgh and the fear of gentrification as it becomes more of a technological hub, Brown said the city has a long way to go.

“We want a more inclusive Pittsburgh,” she said.

“We need better transportation… we need to have a conversation on not just how we attract these tech giants, but how it is going to affect Pittsburghers that are already here and what that’s going to do to our infrastructure.”

Following the round-up, Johnson brought on stage Pittsburgher John Meyer, who drew the stick-cartoon drawing of a cowboy that “1A” seized as a humorous way to share their topics on social media from the start. An avid fan, Meyer was one of the earliest connections between “1A” and Pittsburgh.

Kevin Gavin, host of WESA’s “The Confluence” then held a Q and A session with Johnson in the guest chair.

The audience learned how Johnson is able to look at the news with a clinical, objective stance.

“If you can’t focus, you can’t function; the news is the same way,” Johnson said.

“What I do in the lab with my mic - my job is to try to wash my hands the best I can of my biases, of my prejudices, of my preconceptions, of my stereotypes, of my politics and just learn and just focus.”

The crowd learned of his love of Star Trek and how he

connected his favorite installment, “Deep Space Nine,” to the work he does today.

“It talked about where life was for me and people I knew,” Johnson said. “It felt visceral; it felt real and it taught me a lot about the way people navigate life. My job as a host is to not be the smartest person in the room. It’s just to be the most observant.”

Johnson also mentioned how he believes his audience has just as much a responsibility to share the news.

“What are you doing to get more people to listen,” Johnson asked. “When was the last time you shared a link with someone to something you heard on WESA? We feel like we are preaching to the choir, and we are - so come down from the firestand and evangelize. There are people in intellectual silos all over the county that we will never be able to reach, but you can because you know them.”

Sutton said the visit presented itself as an opportunity for everyone involved.

“Open and civil discussion has never been more important and everything we do here we like to say embodies the sound of a free press,” Sutton said. “It’s not only a chance for Pittsburghers to learn about 1A and Joshua Johnson, but through 1A, his audience is going to learn a little bit more about Pittsburgh.”

Johnson ended the live show with a standing ovation from the crowd, citing a Dr. Suess quote.

“Remember what Dr. Suess wrote at the end of ‘The Lorax,’” he said. “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, it’s not.”

Carley Bonk cmbonk@pointpark.edu

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

FEATURES

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

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SAEM Club holds auditions for “Got Talent” show 21 participants entertain Village Park, 10 finalists

By Hattie Charney Co-Features Editor

Spinning plates, dadjokes and drag queens are the tip of the iceberg for the acts that auditioned for Point Park Has Talent.

Students of all majors came out last Thursday night in Village Park to audition for Sports, Arts and Entertainment Management (SAEM) Club’s talent show.

Nate Grossi, junior SAEM major and President of SAEM Club, said any event put on by SAEM is run by its own members. Grossi said he wants its members to get involved as much as possible in the event planning for their future careers.

Auditions were held on Thursday, Sept. 20. Of the 21 acts that auditioned, only 10 acts made it through to the finals.

“We just had auditions for the main show which will be on Sept. 27, because we can only take 10 acts unfortunately to the main show just because of time limits,” Sophomore SAEM major and Arts Coordinator for SAEM Club Christy Mar-

PIONEER PUBLIC Elise D’Haine

By Lauren Clouser Co-Features Editor

Elise D’Haene, a teaching artist in the cinema department, was a practicing psychologist when she decided she wanted to get into writing.

“I had a practice, I was a therapist, I realized I really wanted to write,” D’Haene said. “So the first thing I did was write a novel called ‘Licking our Wounds.’ And it had a lot to do with the AIDS crisis going on in LA at the time and it got published.”

tin said. “We wanted to see how much interest we would have and we got a lot of interest today.”

“I wanted to put this event on because I wanted an event that could encompass the whole school.”

Christy Martin Arts Coordinator SAEM Club

Martin, alongside sophomore SAEM major and Sports Coordinator of SAEM Club, Maddie Winger, judged the audition process.

“It’s going to be a really tough decision to decide

D’Haene said writing helped her to work through tragedy.

“I actually wrote the novel because I found that the AIDS crisis was very difficult,” D’Haene said. “I had a lot of friends, family and some of my clients, many of my clients who died. And so it was sort of my way with coping with the tragedy was to write. And it suddenly felt as though something had opened up in me.”

From there, D’Haene’s agent gave the book to a producer in Los Angeles who liked her work, and offered D’Haene a job as a screenwriter for the show “Red Shoe Diaries.”

D’Haene had no prior screenwriting experience and had to learn on the job, but said she fell in love with her work.

“It was really exciting and I loved the creativity and I loved working with actors and being on set,” D’Haene said. “It felt like I’d found my home and found

who goes forward, but we’re really excited for the main show,” Martin said.

Students from all majors and backgrounds auditioned. Grossi wanted any student to be able to participate and show off their talent.

“It’s open to everybody no matter what their major is or what their experience is,” Grossi said. “We’re looking for all different types of acts.”

Martin, coordinator of Point Park Has Talent, said the event is modeled after the television show “America’s Got Talent.”

Martin wanted to organize this event for students to show the university and their peers the talents that they possess.

“I wanted to put this event on because I wanted an event that could encompass the whole school,” Martin said. “Anybody from any major could come and participate in it so it wasn’t just a singing competition or just a dancing competition. You could do anything.”

The main show will take place on Sept. 27, in the Lawrence Hall Ballroom, which is open to all students.

Point Park Has Talent will be hosted by Mirror Image, a semi-finalist on “America’s Got Talent.”

The judges will be local drag queen Dixie Sherwood, the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s Allie Durand and two Point Park faculty judges: SAEM professor David Rowell and choir director Jim Overly.

This isn’t the first time Mirror Image and SAEM Club have teamed up for an event.

Martin said that Mirror Image came to campus during spring semester of last year for a concert.

Grossi shares the same excitement for Mirror Image to come back to campus.

“We’re very excited,” Grossi said. “Last year when Mirror Image came, we sold out a concert on campus for them in the [Lawrence Hall] ballroom.”

Besides a star-studded judge and hosting linewhat I wanted to do.”

D’Haene was contacted next by someone who had read her novel and worked at Disney. She wanted D’Haene to help rework the script of “The Little Mermaid II.” “So I was working at Disney,” D’Haene said, “And that was exciting. It was a different process, you were working with a lot of people. It’s sort of really collaborative because there’s a big committee working on all of these scripts.”

D’Haene continued to write books and prose as well to help balance out the waiting involved with screenwriting.

“It’s a lot of waiting and it’s a lot of rejection,” D’Haene said. “And so that part of that industry is hard which is why I’m really glad I continue to write prose because I have more control over it. I love a short story that’s in a literary journal just as much as I love a big project that is getting on TV.”

Hattie Charney | The Globe Junior SAEM major Krystopher Baklarz sings at an audition in Village Park on Thursday.

up, students will have the chance to be involved in the show through the voting process. Students will interact through their cell phones to choose the overall winner.

“How it will work is there will be 10 acts, the judges will narrow it down to three while… Mirror Image will perform a song,” Grossi said.

Grossi said that judges will then decide the top three finalists.

“The judges will give their input on the show but then it is going to turn to an audience vote, which will be a text vote. You will text your vote to a phone number and it will come up on a big screen once everyone has voted and that is how the winner will be picked.”

The top three will receive trophies. The winner of Point Park Has Talent will receive prizes from three sponsors: Barnes & Noble, Culinart and Pizza Fiesta.

The winner will also win a show in the Point Perk CofD’Haene moved to Pittsburgh and applied to teach at Point Park after hearing about the university’s cinema program.

“I love universities because I like the energy, the youth, the excitement, the change, always learning new things,” D’Haene said. “So I’m super impressed with Point Park’s cinema arts program.”

D’Haene teaches both undergraduate and graduate classes and says that one of her favorite courses to teach is Introduction to Screenwriting because all of the students in the class want to be there.

“I just think there’s nothing like being in a room with 25 students and we’re all watching this movie and we’re all just completely in love with it,” D’Haene said.

“There’s nothing like that feeling. It’s like a love affair with film.”

D’Haene continues to write for print and for the screen. D’Haene said she

fee House series that SAEM Club is putting on.

The first of six Point Perk Coffee House events will take place Wednesday, Sept. 26th in the new coffee shop located on Wood Street.

Grossi and Martin both expressed excitement for the talent show. They also said they are excited about the other projects that are in the works for the rest of the fall semester, as well as the upcoming spring semester.

“Networking and hopefully making business relationships out of this club is what we’re trying to do this year,” Winger said. “Everything has a learning aspect to it.”

Point Park Has Talent is just the first of many events set to take place.

“We’re trying to get SAEM Club to start off with a bang,” Martin said.

Hattie Charney hecharn@pointpark.edu

Lauren Clouser| The Globe

plans to continue writing, regardless of whether or not anything sells.

“I may never get another thing on television or may never sell another project but I’m going to keep doing it because I love doing it,” D’Haene said.

Lauren Clouser lclous@pointpark.edu

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A&E

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

Simon, Starr parade greatness in Pittsburgh

By Amanda Myers A & E Editor

When two music legends roll into town the same week, be prepared for masterpiece-level music with a rush of nostalgia - even if you weren’t alive for those early days.

Paul Simon and Ringo Starr are at different points in their musical careers.

One bound for the comforts of home, while the other is eager for the unknown.

Their presence is enough to elicit smiles from endearing fans who hang on their every word.

Simon’s stop at PPG Paints Arena on Sept. 17 marked the tail end of his Homeward Bound farewell tour. After a final show in New York on Saturday, Simon’s time moving forward will be quieter, re-

moved from the thunderous applause.

And there was plenty of that to go around last Monday night.

Moved by the tears and love from the audience, Simon rode that tidal wave of sound for a solid two-and-a-half hours. His performance looked far from a swan song, though.

Opening with the tender and poignant “America,” Simon’s 14-year absence from the city was felt immediately, especially when he got to the “boarded a Greyhound in Pittsburgh” line.

After a swift key change to “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” with an injection of funk, the first foot tapping of the evening began.

Simon’s humble talksing tone was lifted by his vibrant guitar playing and a large backing band of strings,

Graphic by Alysse Baer I The Globe

horns, percussion and guitar. They added new flair to favorites like “Mother and Child Reunion” and “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard.” Simon found time to channel his own groove in the midst of the scene, looking more like a little kid than a man in his 70s.

Even though this was a farewell show, there was plenty of newer music. Simon’s most recent album “In the Blue Light” reworks old songs in favor of new shapes and sounds. “Can’t Run But” was a charging example.

In between the peaks and valleys, Simon made wave movements with his hand, feeling the vibrations of the notes.

Simon shifted the arrangements of many songs to match his voice and high standards of music. One of those was “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” the Art Garfunkel-led song that skyrocketed the duo to super-stardom. Simon sang the track in a soft reflective tone, remembering his old friend quietly.

Aside from the serious moments, Simon’s humor provided a bright spot during the evening.

When an older lady in the crowd screamed out she loved him, he quipped back: “Let’s see how you feel in your 20s, that might change.”

Fan favorite “You Can Call Me Al” was a soaring send off before two staggering encores. Simon took note of his state of mind with “Still Crazy After All These Years,” singing sharply before go-

ing to “Graceland.” “Kodachrome” was a bright burst of fun that made way for the mournful comedown of “The Boxer.”

“I am leaving, but the fighter still remains.”

This sentiment rocked fans across the arena, remembering this was his departure rather than a returning hello. To exit, Simon stood alone, surrounded by darkness, as he gave every fiber in his being to “The Sound of Silence.” As long as we have his music, there will never be a quiet moment removed from the delicate hand of his songwriting and the life wave of his infectious rhythms.

The arrival of a Beatle on Wednesday was needed to raise rock spirits in the city.

A genre-spanning songbook was about to unfold as soon as Ringo Starr leaped onto the stage at Heinz Hall on Sept. 19. The once oldest Beatle looked a good twenty years younger as he swayed in skinny leather pants.

Starr dug in deep with a cover of Carl Perkins’ “Matchbox” before transitioning to his material. “It Don’t Come Easy” seemed contradictory given how naturally the night came to Starr, even if he never was much of a singer. The Beatles’ “What Goes On” was a sweet surprise before he took the reins of an additional drum kit.

Backed by his All-Starr band, each member had their time in the spotlight. Bassist Graham Gouldman of 10cc sent earthlings to the stratosphere with airy vocals on

songs like “I’m Not in Love.”

One time singer for Santana, Greg Rolie, worked the keys and sang smoothly to “Black Magic Woman” and “Evil Ways” among others.

The man that worked the guitar on those songs was Steve Lukather of Toto. He got people up on their feet for 80s classics “Rosanna,” “Hold the Line” and “Africa” while making mention of Weezer’s cover.

The other main AllStarr was Colin Hay, formerly of Men at Work. His high vocal range made its way into the chorus of “Africa” and his own songs “Down Under,” “Who Can It Be Now?” and “Overkill.”

Starr was generous during these moments as he smiled and bobbed his head back and forth. But when he found his way back to the mic, he was all in.

He shook his nonexistent hair on “Boys.” Then he fumbled with a keyboard on the intro to “Don’t Pass Me By” before strutting to center stage.

Heart strings were tugged with the nostalgic “Photograph” and silly country tune “Act Naturally.” The most significant moments weren’t as serious either.

“Yellow Submarine” and sing-along closer “With a Little Help From My Friends” captured the essence of Ringo: the fun, lovable one driving the backbeat.

And it looks like it’s full steam ahead for this one.

Amanda Myers admyers@pointpark.edu

Miller vigil at Blue Slide Park attracts thousands

By Nick Horwat

Co - Copy Desk Chief

On a normal day Squirrel Hill’s Blue Slide Park is full of kids sliding down a legendary slide, but on Sept. 11 it held host to thousands of people who flocked to honor a late Pittsburgh rapper.

On Sept. 7 it was reported that Pittsburgh rapper Mac Miller had passed away due to a suspected drug overdose. The exact cause of death is yet to be determined.

The news of his death shook not only his home city, but the music world as a whole. Many musicians like Drake, J. Cole and Elton John gave heartfelt tributes to the late rapper.

A vigil was held at Frick Park’s Blue Slide Park on Sept. 11. The park was the inspiration behind Miller’s debut album “Blue Slide Park,” as well as the backdrop for multiple music videos.

Not only was the park a fond place for Miller, but

other locals as well.

“To me Blue Slide Park means everything,” Brandon Sacca, an Allderdice High School alumni, said. “To hear an album about a place that I spent a large chunk of my time growing up was awesome.”

“The news of his death shook not only his home city, but the music world as a whole.”

Nick Horwat Co-copy Desk Chief

Thousands of people gathered at the park and the mood was anything but somber. It was a time to reflect on the life that Miller lived.

Nick Horwat I The Globe

His music played throughout the night while friends and fans alike came together to sing along and celebrate his life and legacy, creating a concert-like atmosphere.

Hit songs such as “Knock Knock” and “Loud” played with great joy for the crowd.

While songs like “Best Day Ever” and “Youforia” held moments that seemed to mellow the atmosphere.

With lighters and candles held high, the mourners sang along.

The only song played that did not feature Miller was Jimmy Wopo’s “Elm Street.” Wopo was another Pittsburgh rapper who died just a few months prior.

The top of the slide turned into a main spot for fans to leave flowers, mementos and candles to honor the rapper, while surrounding fences in the park also held more memories.

“Knowing that someone grew up in the same area as me could be as big as he was and make this much of a difference,” Sacca said. “He meant hope and a chance that I can fulfill my dreams.”

Local artist Zachary Rutter was also at the top of the slide painting a portrait of Miller. The painting will be auctioned off by Rutter and the proceeds will be going to substance abuse and addiction awareness.

Multiple artists were set up all around the park creating new works of art in honor of Miller.

As night fell, the crowd only grew while candles and lighters lit up the park.

Attendants began to climb

Nick Horwat I The Globe

playground equipment and trees to get a better view of the events.

“I think the vigil demonstrated Pittsburgh’s sense of community,” attendant Sam Francis said. “People coming in from all over to think about his life and his music and how he affected all of us.”

In the midst of the music and remembrance, Miller’s grandmother, Marcia Weiss, was given a microphone to say a few words to the crowd.

“He would be so excited to see this if he was here,” Weiss said to the crowd. “He loves you all and he loves Pittsburgh and everything that you have done for him.”

Weiss was sporting a black sweater that featured the “Blue Slide Park” artwork.

It may have been an upbeat and active atmosphere, but there was still the sense that it was a time to reflect.

That was seen most when fans started sitting on both sides of the famous slide.

Miller, a Point Breeze native, loved the city of Pittsburgh. The vigil at Blue Slide Park showed that the city and its residents loved him back.

“Mac Miller meant a lot to the city of Pittsburgh,” Francis said. “When you’re from Pittsburgh you feel that sense of community, and he was a large part of it.”

In the wake of his death and his vigil, a petition has been started to change the name of the park to honor Mac Miller.

Nick Horwat njhorwa@pointpark.edu

OPINIONS

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

THE

GL BE’S POINT

How much is too much?

With the recent announcement by United Student Government (USG) and clarification email from administration regarding the purchase of Playhouse tickets, many of us have been left with a lot of questions and concerns.

Though the tickets only cost a dollar, this small increase is part of a larger problem - excessive student expenses.

It’s a common stereotype poor college students living on Raman noodles and Easy Mac. But with school costs rising, the reality of this situation is starting to hit more and more students.

When students live off campus, they have many expenses in addition to hundreds of dollars already spent on books and tuition. Rent, utilities, groceries and transportation add up fast when you are living off of loans. Holding a part-time job can certainly help alleviate the debt, but this adds on another factor - another responsibility to balance.

Often, students may have to skip a class because they worked late the night before.

The reality of the insecurities students are dealing with is a growing problem - and it

presses heavy on our generation. A lot of students are required to attend Playhouse shows for classes. The tickets may only cost a dollar, but some students don’t have a dollar to spare. They are living paycheck to paycheck, balancing funds and pushing back due dates as late as they can.

We pay thousands of dollars each year for our education - a figure that continues to grow. We were promised this brand new multi-million dollar Playhouse wouldn’t come out of our pockets. And while the brick and mortar might not have, the productions will.

We believe this extra ticket expense shouldn’t be our responsibility. This expense shouldn’t belong to USG either, considering this money in the past has originated from its account, and is only being addressed now that USG is re-allocating funds into divergent accounts. This fee should be validated by the university, so our campus community can encourage, support and enjoy our fellow students’ talent and hard work.

The Point Park Globe globe@pointpark.edu

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

5

Don’t believe everything you read on Facebook Social media outlet may be misguiding the masses

By Jordyn Hronec Copy Editor

I’m a firm believer that the internet is a great place, and not the mindless, brain-destroying monster that some people think it to be. I’ve spent many an hour in a relaxed state of bliss, watching pointless YouTube content, posting the perfect selfie on Instagram or haphazardly throwing out whatever pops into my head on Twitter. There’s just one thing out there on the web that I just can’t condone.

And that’s Facebook and all of its pitfalls. Yes, I have a Facebook. Yes, I occasionally use the app. But is it ever a completely enjoyable experience? No, never.

Every time I visit Facebook, I am bombarded with an onslaught of posts from my loved ones and friends that are over the top. I’ve seen tremendous amounts of written out pieces condemning others and discussing what a horrible state our country is in. Nine times out of 10, these posts are so bombastic in their claims that it seems obvious there’s no truth to them. But my Facebook friends fall for them and are sent into an outrage.

Specifically, I saw a post circulating about how ABC wasn’t allowing its news anchors to wear American flag pins on their lapels because it

was a symbol of “nationalism,” claiming that this was partially Obama’s fault, somehow. Naturally, Facebook-goers who commented on and shared the post were up in arms about this, but I just couldn’t believe it. A quick Google search warranted the results that no, in fact, ABC did not do this. I also found out that this rumor originated shortly after Sept. 11, 2001, where it ran its course, died for about 15 years, then got dug up again and this time Obama got dragged into it as a scapegoat. We’ve been told since the beginning that nothing ever gets deleted from the internet. The fact that these lies have the power to keep coming back with a vengeance is frightening.

I also saw a hoax discussing how apparently Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton were avid supporters of allowing abortions to take place 36 weeks into a pregnancy. This post was coupled with a picture of a healthy baby born at 36 weeks, as it was trying to elicit an emotional response, a response of outrage, from users. And it did. But again, something about the post was seriously off. So I googled it, and once again, it was a fake.

And tens of thousands of Americans on Facebook took it at face value.

What disturbs me most about these types of posts,

however, is how they’re not addressed with the level of severity that they deserve. Sure, Facebook has made moves recently to crack down on “fake news” - specifically that which is used to incite violence. But it seems that when most people talk about fake news, they discuss it in reference to established news sources who put out fake material. And while this is a problem, I’d argue that posts from any Facebook user that are fake and meant to deceive users need the same treatment.

By allowing just about anyone to post something, spread false information and trick others into thinking something is real, we are creating and perpetuating mob mentality. Fake news posted by an independent user is just as, if not more, dangerous than that posted by an established news source, because there may not be any way to regulate what the individual user decides to post.

And we, as internet users, need to be less quick to hit the share button. If you see a Facebook post that may be sketchy, read it once, twice, three times.

Research and see if it’s true, because it very well may not be. Browse carefully.

Jordyn Hronec jthrone@pointpark.edu

Donald Trump has crossed too many lines - no more

Student asks if Donald Trump has finally become a dictator after only two years

By Amanda Andrews For The Globe

A conversation about the nation and the current presidency, in most political arenas, is bound to be contentious. Supporters and critics alike can agree that Trump has not been abiding by several previous precedents established by his predecessors and has set up a few of his own in the nearly two years since he first took office. Recent actions taken by the president have caused many campaigns to evaluate his qualifications, effectiveness and responsibilities to the American public and international community.

This has raised a more radical question in the most liberal circles: has Donald Trump become a dictator?

Donald Trump has been compared to several dictators since his presidential campaign first began, and not without some due justification. His hard-line stance against immigration as well as many of his disparaging remarks on the Latin and Muslim populations with the added “Make America Great Again” slogan made for a clear nationalist, populist cry for big change in government leadership, a platform

which was criticized to be eerily similar to Adolf Hitler’s proposed agenda when he ran for the Chancellor of Germany in 1932.

Not helping matters with that argument, Trump found a strong base in rising Neo-Nazi or alt-right movements in the United States and has struggled on multiple occasions to condemn their hate-motivated agendas, most notably and controversially in the case of the Charlottesville protests in 2017.

In the midst of his campaign, he unapologetically quoted Mussolini. In that same vein, in February of last year, he tweeted that a multitude of news publications were “the enemy of the people,” the exact phrase used to label political dissidents and opponents by Stalin and Mao, two of the most prominent dictators of the 20th century.

How can a dictator be defined and can they even exist in the 21st century as they did in the past? Do Donald Trump’s actions live up to his inflammatory rhetoric? Could a standing president who has been elected into office abuse his powers and cast away democracy?

Dictators most certainly

exist across the world in very key positions of authority.

While many countries adopted a democracy as their form of government in the later half of the 20th century, many since the beginning of the 21st century have started the shift and have even made the transition to what would be described as a dictatorship.

There is no better example than in Russia where Vladimir Putin, through scrupulous means, has held power since 2000 and with it has censored independent media and vastly expanded military conquests to intimidate neighboring countries.

It is worth noting that Trump has repeatedly complimented Putin and his leadership over the years.

Although holding the status of a dictator requires that person to follow particular steps in securing wholly untouchable power. The first step that most historians cite is the demoralization and the subsequent suppression of independent, critical media.

That area is why most journalists have raised alarm over Trump’s fake news campaign, labeling mass media as the enemy of the people.

It appears though that Trump has only complet-

ed a half job on this, as I am allowed to write an opinion such as this, critically analyzing his potential performance as a dictator. More importantly, because the independent media that Trump most despises have not been forcibly taken down in any sense since his election nor has the implementation of a state media company been put into operation.

The second step is twofold: identify so-called public enemies within the citizen body, typically ethnic or religious groups, and promise huge reform to the current system of government. In this way, Trump’s presidential campaign fulfilled those requirements; however, he has struggled to make good on all his plans for government reform due to the obstacles of intense media coverage, formal investigation probes, a mismanaged administration and his own incompetence.

The closest he has been is with his downright inhumane plan to separate families at the border, sending children to detention centers and deporting asylum seekers and illegal immigrants, even if that meant permanently separating parents from their children.

ICE’s actions based on Trump’s orders were so authoritarian in nature that thousands of protests sprang up across the nation during the summer, including here in Pittsburgh. Added with the recent news that Trump authorized the transfer of $10 million from FEMA’s budget to the ICE, it is not unfair to fear the dangerous potential of what the next two years will bring.

Ultimately, Trump as a former CEO immensely respects the powers of authoritarian leaders that Putin or Kim Jong Un wield and intensely desires to replicate it; however, while he may be in charge of arguably the most dominant nation in the world, the United States has perhaps the most notable history of protecting individual liberties and the free interest of the general public.

Besides the contemporary factors that limit him, the actual foundation of this particular government and its reputation as a protector of rights and free will cannot be irrevocably manipulated to a system of a dictatorship, or at the very least, not as long as President Donald Trump remains in office.

Amanda Andrews aaandrews@pointpark.edu

Covering the world of Point Park University news since 1967 Editor-in-Chief: Emily Bennett Editor-Elect: Carley Bonk Business Manager: Kelsey Wolfe Faculty Adviser: Aimee Dorsten Administrative Adviser: Dean Keith Paylo The Globe board consists of Emily Bennett, Carley Bonk and fellow editors. Opinion articles, letters to the editor, columns and cartoons do not necessarily reflect the position of the newspaper or editorial board. The Globe reserves the right to refuse advertising and edit all submitted articles and letters to the editor. Letters to the editor must be signed and include author’s contact information. The Globe offices are located at the corner of Wood Street and Fort Pitt Boulevard. Writers should address letters to:

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News Editors: Mick Stinelli and Sarah Gibson Photo Editor: Gracey Evans Features Editors: Lauren Clouser and Hattie Charney Photo Editor: Kelsee McHugh Sports Editors: Dara Collins and Allison Schubert Photo Editor: Robert Berger Opinions Editor: Jordan Slobodinsky Arts and Entertainment Editor: Amanda Myers Online Editors: Kayla Snyder Chichi Anuforo Nicole Pampena

Copy Desk: Hannah Walden Nick Horwat Social Media Coordinators: Beth Turnbull Hannah O’Toole Autumn Barszczowski Public Relations Coordinator: Carrie Reale Delivery Assistant: Autumn Barszczowski Business Manager: Kelsey Wolfe Graphic Designer: Alysse Baer

6

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

Women’s soccer builds All in With confidence, victory streak Allison

By Allison Schubert Sports Columnist

New coaching staff drives successful fall season The women’s golf team has a new coaching staff and an all-new outlook on the 2018-19 season.

It is the first season for both head coach Bob Salera, who was promoted from assistant coach, and assistant coach Carmen Costa. The two of them have led the Pioneers to the most successful season the program has had since its recognition as a varsity sport in 2009.

Another big addition to Point Park this year is junior Joey Walz, who transferred from NCAA DI school Marshall University over the summer.

The Pioneers have participated in three outings so far, and Walz has walked away with individual recognitions in all of them.

They opened their season at the Grove City Invitational, placing first out of the six teams in attendance.

Walz fired a two-under 70 and took medalist honors, and all five of Point Park’s athletes placed in the top eight finishers.

The women then spent two days competing in the Carnegie Mellon Fall

Shootout, where they ultimately placed fifth overall out of 10 participating teams.

The Pioneers topped Washington and Jefferson, Clarion, Carlow, St. Vincent and Westminster.

Walz again placed in the top, shooting a two-over 76 to tie for third place.

Their most recent success came at the Westminster Invitational, taking second to Washington and Jefferson out of six total teams.

Walz again flexed her abilities, taking first place overall. She shot 77 overall, six strokes ahead of the second place finisher, St. Vincent’s Sydney Ball. In the three fall tournaments thus far, Walz has shot all four rounds in the 70s.

The women have a significant break between now and their next outing, the River States Conference Fall Preview, which is a two-day tournament on Oct. 8 and 9. Their final outing of the fall season follows on Oct. 12 during the Pioneer Classic in Bridgeville.

Allison Schubert alschub@pointpark.edu

Robert Berger| Point Park Athletics Junior Joey Walz lines up a putt during the Carnegie Mellon Fall Shootout.

Last weekend at Westminster, Walz took 1st place individually and has medaled in every event of the fall season.

LAST WEEK’S SCOREBOARD SEPT. 18 - SEPT. 24 MEN’S SOCCER (5-3) (1-0)

POINT PARK 0, BRESCIA 1*............................................................Sept. 20 POINT PARK 3, CINCINNATI CHRISTIAN 2*................................Sept. 22 Next: Sept. 27 vs. (8) Rio Grande*, Sept. 29 vs. WVU Tech*

WOMEN’S SOCCER (4-4) (2-0)

POINT PARK 7, BRESCIA 0*............................................................Sept. 20 POINT PARK 4, CINCINNATI CHRISTIAN 1*................................Sept. 22 Next: Sept. 27 vs. (8) Rio Grande*, Sept. 29 vs. WVU Tech*

VOLLEYBALL (6-6) (0-1)

Next: Sept. 28 @ Midway*, Sept. 29 @ Asbury*

MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY INVITATIONAL................................Sept. 22 Next: Sept. 29 @ Louisville Classic

WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY INVITATIONAL................................Sept. 22 Next: Sept. 29 @ Louisville Classic

MEN’S GOLF

CLARION UNIVERSITY HAL HANSEN INVITATIONAL..............Sept. 18 2nd of 11

Next: Oct. 12 @ Pioneer Classic

WOMEN’S GOLF

WESTMINSTER INVITATIONAL....................................................Sept. 22 2nd of 6

Next: Oct. 8-9 @ RSC Fall Preview, Oct. 12 @ Pioneer Classic

*River States Conference

Robert Berger | Point Park Athletics Senior midfielder Tatum Fabian saves a ball from going out of bounds during a matchup against Lourdes earlier this year. Saturday, the Pioneers defeated Ohio Christian University 4-1 and are now 2-0 in conference play.

By Rachael McKriger For The Globe

Section play began with a spark for the Point Park women’s soccer team.

Finishing up a long road spell, Point Park opened conference play with a 7-0 victory over Brescia (Ky.) University.

Two days later, the Pioneers notched another victory, this time over Cincinnati Christian (Ohio) University.

Against Brescia, junior Gabby Widman opened up her scoring account. Widman scored in the first and second half of action. The midfielder said that the goals had given her a boost of confidence heading into conference play.

“With players looking up to me on the team, putting the ball in the back of the net gave them a boost of confidence as well,” Widman said.

“It’s definitely hard traveling for long bus rides and then going into these games. We knew we had to prove ourselves and earn wins. Starting the conference with two wins has helped us.”

Widman explained that playing tough teams in the pre-season has helped the Pioneers. Beginning the season with a 0-4 record is now a distant memory for the team. Point Park has won their last four matches and are currently 2-0 in National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) play.

“Being on top is a boost for us, especially with a hectic week coming up,” Widman said. “We need to work the full 90 minutes, no matter who our opponent is.”

Hectic is an understatement for the upcoming week.

Point Park has a rigorous schedule of three games: Tuesday against Geneva, Thursday against the University of Rio Grande and Saturday against WVU Tech. All matches will be at Highmark Stadium, finishing out the month of September.

Tuesday’s match is not a section game, but the goal of staying focused and earning a win remains prominent for the Pioneers, according to senior Abby Magliocca.

“Even though it’s not as significant as the conference games, it’s still a way to build up our confidence and build on things we’ve been work-

ing on,” Magliocca said. “We need to put away teams, even if they’re as the conference teams. We’re still on a mustwin mentality.”

A non-conference game gives the Pioneers another chance to clean up the new diamond formation implemented by head coach Maggie Kuhn two weeks ago.

Magliocca called it a 4-4-2 formation, which she personally enjoys.

“I like it a lot because the center of the field is the controlling factor of the game,” Magliocca said. “If you can control the center of the field, you can dictate what happens. To bring most of our players in the center of the field, it’s kind of nice to see on the defensive line.

All of the girls are getting marked -- and it’s hard to get through our defensive line. It’s not just our defenders; it’s our midfielders and forwards too.”

Defense might win championships, but scoring helps as well. Magliocca has noticed a difference not just in the midfield, but also in the attack game as well.

“We’ve been scoring a lot of goals in the past few games and that’s building up our confidence,” Magliocca said. “We know that when we shoot, we can score.”

However, despite the positive, confidence-boosting start to conference play, Kuhn is making sure her squad stays humble and works hard.

Magliocca said that the new mantra around the team is that, in reality, they haven’t “won” anything yet.

“Regardless of how we’re doing, we have to stay humble and remind ourselves that we haven’t won the conference, we haven’t won nationals,” Magliocca said. “We need to make sure that we take every team we play seriously.”

Kuhn said that the character of the team is growing due to staying humble and picking up wins.

“I think going into this week, we are carrying a bit of confidence, which is good,” Kuhn said. “Rio and WVU Tech are two strong conference opponents, so we have to be at our best.

We can’t go into these games over-confident.”

However, a little confidence won’t hurt, especially in hopes to pick up the record at home. When the Pioneers dropped the first four matches of the regular season, three of them at Highmark Stadium, Kuhn said the return home has made players “anxious” to get on the field.

“We are playing better and I think that playing at home is going to be beneficial to us moving forward,” Kuhn said. “As long as we cannot let the home crowd put more pressure on what it is we need to do, we’ll be fine.”

Rachael McKriger rakrige@pointpark.edu

Robert Berger| Point Park Athletics Senior defender Asia Pennock-Franke carries the ball after a steal in a game against Lourdes. The team will face Rio Grande at home Thursday afternoon.

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

7

A “meaty” presentation on sports sponsorships

By Robert Berger

Sports Photo Editor

The Pittsburgh Center for Sports Media and Marketing held its first event of the fall semester Thursday, “Why a Sports Sponsorship Works.”

Featuring Sean Hanrahan and Chris Eames of ESPN and Arby’s Restaurant President Rob Lynch, the trio discussed what goes into setting up a sports sponsorship and why the two companies make a successful partnership.

While working for Taco Bell, Lynch was asked to take on a job as the Brand President and Chief Marketing Officer of Arby’s, who at the time were struggling when it came to advertising efforts.

After taking on the challenge of handling the marketing office, Lynch began working with the company on an overhaul of menu items and advertising techniques. The most successful tactic being the “We Have The Meats” campaign.

“I was told we’re either going to change things or go out of business,” Lynch said.

While touching on the campaign, Lynch explained the key role social media plays in the world of advertising, along with how ESPN is a perfect fit as an advertising partner. One example discussed is the partnership between Arby’s and professional golfer

Andrew “Beef” Johnston.

“Social media has changed the world…anyone can join the conversation,” Lynch said.

After watching Johnston golf, Lynch and the Arby’s brand felt he would be a perfect sponsor for the company and reached out to him immediately. In just a few days, Johnston went viral.

Johnston’s efforts were being shared online and covered by numerous outlets from ESPN, CNN and Jimmy Kimmel.

“It works because it’s real, it makes sense,” Lynch said.

Lynch concluded that sports sponsorships work well because of the wide demographic sports reach, as well as the popularity of these stories outside of the sports world.

Afterwards, Johnston returned to golf in European tournaments and the partnership ended. Even with the partnership being over, Johnston still wears his Arby’s merchandise, but doesn’t recieve compensation because of the popularity garnered from the original ad campaign.

Throughout the afternoon, the importance of knowing and understanding competition was stressed. Both Hanrahan and Eames touched on how ESPN is the most unique and well-known sports station on the air. Highlighting shows such as SportsCenter and Scott Van Pelt’s midnight

airing edition of the show.

With Arby’s being a main sponsor for Van Pelt’s midnight show, the program is one of television’s most watched by men over 18, the main demographic Arby’s targets. On this topic, Lynch stressed the importance of knowing a company’s demographic.

He continued on to explain that males are a target because they tend to eat meat more at fast food restaurants.

Along with this, he detailed that the company has no interest in catering towards vegetarian options like their competitors do, because it isn’t their territory.

“Understand how you’re different and better [than a competitor] and represent that,” Lynch said.

With the floor open to questions, the trio shared tips with students for when they are entering the job world after graduating from college.

“Just be curious about everything, be interested, not interesting, pay attention, ask smart questions, learn more about the business you’re going into,” Eames said.

Eames also brought up the difference between his generation of workers and millennials. He encouraged students to find value and purpose in the work they do because they tend to bounce from job to job trying to find it.

Lynch touched on the

Robert Berger | For The Globe Chris Eames (Right) and Sean Hanrahan (Middle) of ESPN and Arby’s President Rob Lynch (Left), address students during the first Pittsburgh Center for Sports Media and Marketing event of the semester.

same topic, adding that millennials should not be quick to decide a career path and they should find a way to become inspired and passionate with their work.

Junior public relations and advertising major Elizabeth Waldinger was in attendance Thursday and felt this was her biggest takeaway.

“Passion is the basis of everything, and you can tell the companies that put passion into their advertising and work,” Waldinger said. “It makes a big difference.”

On the topic, Hanrahan highlighted three important pieces of advice.

“One, be a good team player,” Hanrahan said. “Two, learn about working hard, late or what to do when things go

wrong. Three, listen and ask questions.”

The Pittsburgh Center for Sports Media and Marketing was founded in 2011 and has worked to bring industry professionals to campus every semester since. In the past, the organization has welcomed guests such as NBC’s Doc Emrick, ESPN’s Merril Hoge and WPXI’s Bob Pompeani.

Emma Christley contributed additional reporting.

Disclaimer: Robert Berger also serves as an advisory board member for the Center but does have any executive power within the organization.

Robert Berger raberge@pointpark.edu

Women take third at Lock Haven, Shields on top again

By Robert Berger

Sports Photo Editor

The women’s cross country team spent Saturday afternoon at Lock Haven University competing in the school’s invitational, placing third overall with senior Anna Shields topping it off to finish first overall.

“We really showed that we can be a top 10 NAIA team with this race,” Shields said.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we move up in the rankings next time, especially if we do well at Louisville.”

Competing against seventeen schools, the Pioneers finished behind West Virginia University and The University of West Chester. Shields completed the women’s 6k in 20 minutes, 37 seconds.

Two runners from West Virginia took an early lead, but Shields maintained her pace only a few steps behind.

“A couple girls went out for it right from the gun at almost a sprint,” Shields said. “I was telling myself not to get intimidated… I just stayed within myself through the 5k and I realized I brought it home pretty excited.”

As the race continued, Shields caught up and used the flat Lock Haven course to her advantage.

“It’s the kind of course that favors me as a person who is better at track,” Shields said “I like to just get into a pace and feel comfortable with that.”

On the season, the Pioneers have competed in three events and Shields has fin-

ished first in each one. The win on Saturday set a new school record for the 6k event.

Just shy of the top 10, freshman Alyssa Campbell finished second for Point Park, placing 11th overall in 22 minutes, 18 seconds. Campbell improved one place in the overall standings since the team’s last outing at the University of Akron, in which she placed 12th completing the 5k in 18 minutes, 44 seconds.

“Alyssa has been consistent and her times have been great,” senior Taylor Celich said. “Normally it’s hard for a freshman to transition and still carry the same times, and she is which says a lot about her.”

Fellow freshman Reba Bartram also finished in the top 40, finishing the course in 23 minutes, 19 seconds, placing her 39th overall. Bartram was the third Pioneer to cross the finish line, with senior Kara Rohlf finishing three seconds in front of Bartram at 35th and third for Point Park.

Finishing fourth and fifth for the Pioneers was senior Katie Guarnaccia and sophomore Alex Barr, finishing in 23 minutes, 35 seconds and 24 minutes, 17 seconds respectively. Following Guarnaccia was Celich in 25 minutes, 42 seconds.

Currently, the Pioneer women rank 16th in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) rankings.

The men’s team competed in an 8k for the first time this

year, and were led by Junior Xavier Stephens. This season, Stephens has led his team each week. Completing the course in 26 minutes, 46 seconds, Stephens placed 35th overall.

“I love running on the flat courses but I think I could have ran a little better than I did Saturday,” Stephens said.

“It was the first 8k of the season so we’ll get where we need to be.”

Now in his third year on the team, Stephens has become one of the most consistent performing runners.

“I feel a lot stronger than I have and I think it’s showing in my workouts and training for sure,” Stephens said. “I think I went out a little too slow but I’ll look for mistakes I made to improve my future races.”

Finishing behind Stephens for the team in 27 minutes, 4 seconds was junior Eric Torres. Junior Bryan Gutierrez finished 11 seconds later becoming the third Pioneer to cross the finish line.

The top placing freshman on the day was Camden Seybert who finished fourth for the Pioneers in 27 minutes, 32 seconds. Freshman Doug Kostelansky followed, running a personal record of 27 minutes, 49 seconds.

Point Park will travel to Louisville, Kentucky to compete in the Greater Louisville Classic Saturday. During last year’s trip to Louisville, the women and men finished 5th and 12th respectively.

Robert Berger raberge@pointpark.edu

Robert Berger| Point Park Athletics Anna Shields competes in the 2017 Walsh Invitational. Last weekend at Lock Haven, Shields won her third race in a row, and the team placed 3rd overall.

Men’s soccer splits opening RSC matches

By Dara Collins Co-Sports Editor

The men’s soccer team opened River States Conference (RSC) play last week with a pair of road matches against Brescia (Ky.) University and Cincinnati Christian (Ohio) University.

The Pioneers failed to overcome an early goal against the Bearcats in the conference opener last Thursday. Brescia opened by scoring just 44 seconds after kickoff, and Point Park could not find the net despite leading 12-9 in shots, eight of which were on goal.

Sophomore forward Mitchell Roell led the Pioneers with five shots, three on goal, and sophomore midfielder Geert Bijl followed with two shots, both on goal.

Point Park became the team to jump to an early lead just two days later in its next road matchup against Cincinnati Christian. Freshman midfielder Christopher Ciucanu scored in the 2nd minute

with an assist from Bijl, and Roell notched another goal in the 28th minute. The Eagles finally appeared on the scoreboard in the 30th minute but still trailed by one at the half.

Bijl earned the Pioneers’ third goal of the game in the 74th minute, and freshman midfielder Ndayisenga Emmanuel collected the assist.

The Netherlands native now boasts six goals for the season and is the leading scorer for Point Park.

Cincinnati Christian once again faced a two-goal deficit but managed to close the gap to one in the 80th minute. The Eagles proved unsuccessful to edge the Pioneers further, and Point Park returned home with its first RSC victory.

The Pioneers continue RSC play on their home turf this week against (8) Rio Grande University on Thursday and (RV) West Virginia Tech University on Saturday.

Dara Collins dmcolli2@pointpark.edu

8

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

SPORTS

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

Late Coach Rager leaves lasting legacy as a Pioneer Decorated men’s basketball coach remembered for his caring personality

By Allison Schubert Co-Sports Editor

Bob Rager came to Point Park as the head coach of the men’s basketball program in 1989, but his time and legacy as a Pioneer started 19 years prior.

Rager did enough during his time as a student athlete to leave a legacy on campus forever, but he was hardly done.

In 1970, Rager attended Point Park and joined the team he would eventually head. During his four years he racked up 1,071 career points, ranking him 16th on the list of all-time scoring leaders. He was also the Pioneers’ first ever National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) All-American. He was even voted the Small College Player of the Year by the Pittsburgh basketball writers during his junior season.

When he returned to the court, this time as a coach, Rager would spend 27 additional years as a Pioneer.

He tallied 381 wins over those 27 years, earning the title of the all-time winningest college basketball coach at four-year schools in the Pittsburgh. The other four on the top five list includes Pitt’s Doc Carlson (367) and Jamie Dixon (328), Duquesne’s Chick Davies (314) and Rager’s predecessor at Point Park, Jerry Conboy (305).

William “Billy” Ketrow joined the athletics and sports information departments of Point Park in 1991, working alongside Coach Rager for a lot of his time as a Pioneer. Over the course of their time together, Ketrow got to know Rager and his style of coaching very well.

“His philosophy was no defense, run-and-gun basketball,” Ketrow said. “It did not matter if you aver-

aged 30 points a game or if you played three minutes a game, you run and you gun and if you did not take the open shot, you hit the bench. That’s why [Point Park] was top five in offense for what seemed like an entire decade.”

That all-in offense led Rager’s Pioneers to the NAIA National Tournament on three occasions, a trip to the NAIA Final Four in 1996-97 and an appearance in the NAIA Sweet 16 in 2000-01. His 2006-07 team set two school records, one for wins in a season with a 29-2 record and the other for the highest national ranking the school had ever received, sitting No. 3 on the NAIA Top 25 poll that year.

With his fast-paced offensive style came the occasional tough loss. No matter how few or far between, Rager made sure he got his point across when he was

“He treated me as if I was one of his players. I could always come him if I needed something and he always offered me a friendly hello with a smile.”

Zac Weiss

Point Park University Alum unhappy with the team.

Zac Weiss was a student reporter during Rager’s tenure and worked closely with Rager’s teams during his four years at Point Park, allowing him to experience what coaching was like on the opposite side of the score sheet.

“After losses in which

Submitted | Point Park Athletics Bob Rager coaching his team during the 2006-2007 season. The team finished the season 29-2.

Submitted| Point Park Athletics Bog Rager coaching calls a play during his final season as head coach of the men’s basketball program.

Rager passed away the night of Sept. 19. He spent 27 years as the head basketball coach.

the team did not play to his liking, Coach Rager would tell a student reporter that the players were not available and he would be the lone voice for the team,” Weiss said. “I remember when I first started at The Globe we were to have at least three live sources, so that threw a wrench into those plans, but it was a clear message and a moment in which he was trying to teach his team.”

Rager turned those teaching moments into the most wins in not only Point Park history, but in Pittsburgh history.

“More important than all of Bob’s achievements which are enough to cement his legacy at Point Park - is the role he played in supporting and developing the many student-athletes who crossed his path and his time at the university,” Keith Paylo, Dean of Students, said in a notice sent out to the entire Point Park community on Friday. “He went above and beyond to forge strong relationships with his players, and his mentorship allowed them to reach their potential both on the court and in the classroom.”

Rager had an impact on the campus community that ran much deeper than just his colleagues and athletes.

Student media began covering games live during his tenure, and he treated each student reporter as one of his own.

“Bob was someone who was always very supportive of me and what I did, whether it was in capacity with The Globe or as a Sports Information Student Apprentice when I was on the road [with the team],” Weiss said. “He treated me as if I was one of his players. I could always come to him if I needed something and he always offered me a friendly hello with a smile.”

Ketrow kept the score

book for the men’s basketball games, allowing him to also experience Rager’s relationship with media firsthand.

“When they started taking media personnel to cover games live on the road, Rager said that it was gratifying to see the play-by-play and color commentators getting better with each individual broadcast,” Ketrow said. “He would always make room to have us come.

With him, it was all about making everybody better, whether it was himself, the media, and to some extent, everybody that the man touched.”

A more non-traditional aspect of Rager’s coaching methods included turning Point Park into a second chance university.

“He would recruit guys that had been in trouble with the law and wanted to get on the straight and narrow,” Ketrow said. “When their records scared away bigger and more traditional schools, Rager would take them in and make them better athletes and people. That was the type of man he was.”

Coach Rager finished up his time on the Pioneer sidelines in 2016, but no one expected him to pass

away at his home just two years later.

According to his family, he spent the last few years working at his restaurant in Jefferson Hills, sitting on the white sand beaches of Siesta Key, Fl. and coaching basketball at his local YMCA with his grandson.

“I will remember Coach Rager as an individual who loved to teach and provide opportunities to individuals who may not otherwise have had the opportunities,” Weiss said. “Coach Rager is one of many reasons why I am proud to say I graduated from Point Park.”

Rager’s legacy will be one that lives on forever within the student center and all over campus at Point Park. From fellow coaches to staff, students, athletes and everyone in between, Coach Rager left a lasting impression on anyone he came into contact with.

“He was a great player and a great coach, but an even better man,” Ketrow said. “There will always be a little hole in the athletics department at Point Park University. Sleep well my friend.”

Allison Schubert alschub@pointpark.edu

Submitted | Point Park Athletics Bob Rager addresses media during the 2016-2017 Point Park media day. Rager retired with the most all time wins as a head basketball coach in the city of Pittsburgh with 381.