Red & Black
The Free
s t u d e n t n e w s pa p e r o f w a s h i n g t o n a n d j e f f e r s o n c o l l e g e w j r e da n d b l ac k . c o m W a s h i n g t o n , P e n n s y lva n i a November 8, 2019
WHAT’S IN THIS WEEK’S PAPER... DIVERSITY “On October 14, 2019, the Student Government General Assembly voted to recognize and fund Sister2Sister.” -P.8
Kappa Alpha Theta’s Carnival for CASA PAGE 6
CULTURE
“The residents of the newly renovated halls have recently received an email apologizing for their conditions. These conditions include none functioning heating or cooling and rolling blackouts.” -P.15
OPINIONS
“The residents of the newly renovated halls have recently received an email apologizing for their conditions. These conditions include none functioning heating or cooling and rolling blackouts.” -P.15
SPORTS “The Washington and Jefferson Men’s soccer season finished their regular season against The Grove City College Wolverines Saturday, November 1st.” -P.18
WJREDANDBLACK.COM
Courtesy Kailee Havrda
2 CAMPUS NEWS
Red & Black
8 November 2019
Campus Event: Connecting Across Cultures
8 November 2019
Red & Black
Career Services Presents
3 Career Services
Courtesy kbear923.com
Career Services: American Red Cross Information Table Date: Time: Location:
Red & Black Established 1909
Wednesday, November 13th
11:00am - 2:00pm G&T’s Lobby
Danielle Reed, from the American Red Cross, will be on-campus to present internship and volunteer opportunities to students. Presented by Career Services.
Editor-in-Chief Publication Manager Managing Editor Social Media Chair Campus News Editor Diversity Editor Culture Editor Opinions Editor Sports Editor Distribution Manager Copy Editor Copy Editor Adviser
Ricky Delprato Marcy Saldivar Brieanna Sutherland Juliana Kaldany Erin Herock Kelsey Julien Lauren Phillips Amanda FitzpatrickReily Oliverio Vinny Oricco Christian Buckley Will Tucker John Santa
4 CAMPUS NEWS
Red & Black
8 November 2019
Weekly Security Logs: Weekly Reporting:
Weekend Report:
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
Saturday, November 2, 2019
2923 – Informational/Background check – CPS Office
2934 – Informational/Fire alarm – Clark Family Library
2924 – Suspicious activity/Marijuana – Washington Hall 2925 – Suspicious activity/Marijuana – Marshall Hall
Sunday, November 3, 2019
2926 – Informational/Fire alarm – Ross Rec Center
2935 – Alcohol, drunkenness/Disciplinary referral – Lincoln Hall 2936 – Informational/Fire alarm – 325 East Chestnut
Wednesday, October 30, 2019 2927 – Informational/Persona Non Grata – CPS Office 2928 – Informational/Fire alarm – Ross Rec Center Thursday, October 31, 2019 2929 – Informational/Background check – CPS office 2930 – Disciplinary referral/Other (sending vulgar response to emergency message test) – CPS office 2931 – Emergency message system test on 10/30/19/Successful – CPS office 2932 – Possess alcohol/paraphernalia/Disciplinary referral – Upperclass Hall 2933 – Informational/Fire alarm – Ross Rec Center
Courtesy Washjeff.edu
The Security Logs are availible to view in the Campus & Public Safety Office.
8 November 2019
Red & Black
CAMPUS NEWS 5
Rules & Regulations Points will be totaled by weight per person in the building the recycling belongs to at the end of the week.
Do you think you can out recycle your competition? At the end of the week, the winner of each group will be treated to an awesome prize! Group One
Group Two
Group Three
Beau
President’s Row
New Res
Alex
Marshall
Bica
Mellon
Wade
Upper Class
Group Four
Whitworth
All Greek Houses
Penn
For official rules and regulations please visit your RA or email weilandca@jay.washjeff.edu
Points can be deducted if: -There is still liquid in a bottle -Non-recyclables are placed in the bin -Food or food scraps are in the bin -Recyclable bottles still have a non-recyclable label attached -Plastic bags are placed in the bins any of listed recycle rules are broken -The collection and weighing will happen anonymously so no volunteers can add points to certain buildings -No Glass or ripped Aluminum Cans! (This is for the safety of all volunteers as well as the recycling plant workers.) Key Recycling Tips: -If it has a label, take it off and throw the label away -Flatten all cardboard boxes before discarding -No food or food residue left! (This includes liquids as well. Make sure they are well rinsed before placing it in the bin.) -Paper is always acceptable -Aluminum can be recycled if it is rinsed out and intact
CAMPUS NEWS 6
Red & Black
8 november 2019
Kappa Alpha Theta’s Carnival for CASA Kailee Havrda Red & Black Contributor
Last Sunday, Washington & Jefferson’s Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority put on a campus wide event for their philanthropy, CASA called Carnival for CASA. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates, and it is a national association that supports these advocates that represent abused or neglected children to help present them with permanent homes in safe and healthy environments. When students arrived at the event were welcomed by a colorful balloon arch and smiling Thetas. By giving at least five dollars at the entrance, students could get a minimum of ten tokens to use at a number of different tables of games. From throwing darts at balloons to a lollipop tree to mini fishbowls to table tennis in a box and so many other carnival
Courtesy Kailee Havrda
games, there were many ways to use tokens to receive tickets. Once students used up all of their tokens and received tickets, they could enter into the raffle of gift cards and baskets for a chance to win. From Starbucks, Chico Baccello and Victoria Secret gift cards to tea, school, snacks and many other types of baskets, there was a number of chances to win. Along with all the fun and games, there were tables covered in candy, bowls of chips, and classic carnival food and activities like freshly popped popcorn, sugary cotton candy, cornhole and face painting. Carnival for CASA was a wonderful carnival experience created by a caring group of girls. When asked to talk about what she thought about this event, Tori Mckeehan ’21 said, “I thought it was really fun, cute and unique. It was a great way to help a wonderful cause like CASA.” Another student that attended the event, Marcos Juliano ’21 said, “The CASA event went smoothly and encouraged a lot of students to come out and support the cause. Students had fun and enjoyed playing the different games and winning different prizes.” This event was headed by the philanthropy chair for Theta, Lillien Shaer ’22. When asked about her event for her sorority’s philanthropy after the event had finished, she said, “Theta was really excited to try a new event. The Carnival was successful, and we had so much fun promoting CASA.” Carnival helped to take students back to being a child and having fun at the carnival all while helping to support a very important cause that is working to help a number of mistreated children.
Courtesy Kailee Havrda
CASA is a national association that supports abused or neglected children.
Courtesy Kailee Havrda
8 november 2019
Red & Black
7 Campus
Student Theatre Company’s Night of Fright Kailee Havrda Red & Black Contributor
This past Friday, October 29, was the Student Theatre Company’s second annual Night of Fright. It was an hour-long production of spooky poems like The Raven and short, student-written plays that all carried a spooky theme. The set up for the construction was a layout called the three-quarter thrust or basically where the audience was comprised of three sides of the space and the actors performed in the center. According to one of the directors of Night of Fright, Rachel Doty ’19, this seating “forces the audience to be up close to the action and it gives the actors the opportunity to get in the audience’s faces.” One of the actors in Night of Fright, Zoë Pienkoski ’20, claimed that “Night of Fright was an ambitious undertaking because we haven’t done a three-quarter thrust style performance at the school in recent memory.” This seating style allowed the audience to really be part of the action, whether it was a part of a goofy side of Halloween like in Mystic Magination Night, a true story kind of spooky through Mary Girard, or a deal of a life time with the Devil himself in One Time Offer. Rachel Doty ’19, also being the creator of the event, claimed that she wanted to have something where students can “experiment with the horror genre of theatre.” Whether that be watching it from the audience or participating in it as an
Courtesy Kailee Havrda
Night of Fright was an hour long productionof spooky poems and plays.
actor. When asked about how Night of Fright was, Zoë Pienkoski ’20 says that “it was successfully scary. I was told by some of the audience that they were scared and that they had a good time.” An audience member who attended
the show, Sam Tipton ’21, claims that “It was a different and interesting take on the usual shows performed here at W&J. I loved the mixture of scary and creepy monologues alongside more comical pieces. I would love to attend
it again!” Night of Fright was a spooktacular experiment by the theatre department for the second year in a row and it appears that they successfully creeped people out while also bringing laughter to everyone that attended.
8 Diversity
DIVERSITY Red & Black
8 november2019
Sister2Sister: SGA Recognized and Funded Jude Taha Red & Black Contributor
On October 14, 2019, the Student Government General Assembly voted to recognize and fund Sister2Sister. Sister2Sister is an all-inclusive club brought to Washington & Jefferson College to support all women of color, and it welcomes members of the community to learn and educate themselves on issues and topics that impact and shape the daily lives of women of color on predominantly white campuses. In the face of adversity facing women of color in today’s political climate, a space to celebrate, encourage and listen to the experiences of these women has become greatly needed. That being said, what does the presence of Sister2Sister on W&J mean, specifically? Well, the presence of a group that
is tailored towards the discussion of the highlights and struggles of being a woman of color on campus was long overdue. Recognizing Sister2Sister officially opens a dialogue regarding a group of people whose voices previously lacked a platform. Recognizing and funding a club created to expand the scope of experiences offered and celebrated on W&J’s campus shows an optimistic future and an inclusive present. Juliana Kaldany, ’20 shares her view of why she is happy to see Sister2Sister come to campus, “As an Arab woman there aren’t many organizations dedicated for people like me so I am very excited to be a part of this group and sisterhood.” Ever since Sister2Sister first came to campus in the spring of 2019, the environment on campus has become better equipped to ensure that the experiences of women of color and other marginalized groups are being discussed and shared. Sister2Sister has proven to be a positive impact on campus, and it has already planned on collaborating
with other clubs for events that include entertainment, education and culture. By having Sister2Sister on W&J’s campus, the W&J community is demonstrating its position as an ally, a home and a platform all at the same time. Current and new members of Sister2Sister can now enjoy a space created for a shared passion, cause or experience, and in being recognized, they can now also enjoy the representation and support that is present from the student body. Recognizing Sister2Sister as a funded club on campus is not just a move forward to current students who otherwise might not have had the space to share and support experiences. When asked why she was excited for Sister2Sister to come on campus, Mariesa Clarke ’22 responded with, “I’m excited to meet other women of color and create good friendships and connections.” It is also a step on the journey of inclusion and support on which W&J’s community is heavily reliant, and that is allowing everyone to thrive and feel
College or its students, faculty, or administration. The Red & Black welcomes all reader contributions, but reserves the right to reject letters of pure promotional nature, as well as letters which do not meet its standard of integrity, accuracy and decency. The Red & Black also reserves the right to edit submissions.
Courtesy Sister2Sister UCF
Sister2Sister was offically brought to campus on March 28,2019.
C ontac t
E ditorial P olicy The Red & Black is the official, registered student-produced newspaper of Washington & Jefferson College. It is published Fridays with the exception of exams and break periods. Editorials are based upon the opinion of the respective writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper, the
valued and safe within their own communities. As a campus, W&J is passionate about ensuring inclusivity and togetherness. With Sister2Sister on campus, future and current Presidents are equipped with another significant and crucial part of the puzzle that allows the campus to thrive together without leaving anyone behind.
Letters are due on the Monday before publication and may not exceed 600 words. All letters must include the author’s name, campus box and telephone number. Names may be withheld upon request under certain conditions on rare occasions. All letters may be submitted to redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu.
Telephone: FAX: E-mail: Mailing Address:
(724) 223-6049 (724) 503-1049 redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu Red & Black 60 S. Lincoln St. Washington, PA 15301
8 november 2019
Red & Black
9 diversity
What Is a First-Generation College Student?
Courtesy National Student Clearinghouse
First-Generation college students are the first in their family to attain a college degree.
McKayla Rollison Red & Black Contributor
When we were in high school, most of us probably got asked the same question: what are you going to do when you graduate? For some, the answer was easy, and it has always been to go to college. For others, the answer was ever-changing and uncertain, and the added pressure from the questions did not help. Attending college and graduating is a very impressive accomplishment. But if you are a first-generation college student, you are making history with your time spent at college and eventual graduation. But what exactly is a first-generation college student?
A student is considered “first-generation” if neither of their parents have a bachelor’s degree. It varies from case to case, but the name suggests that the student’s immediate family has little or no experience in the educational world, including the searching for colleges, applying for financial aid and preparing for the semester. In lots of cases, a student’s parents had the desire to go to college, but they lacked the financial means or support that such an endeavor requires. When asked about their experience as a first-generation college student, Genea Richardson ’20 said, “Graduation to my mother will be something she wanted for me since she was unable. She went to college until her senior year, but after family issues she was only able to pay $25 towards grad fees. My dad will be proud of the
growth throughout our generation, especially for a black family.” One of the most challenging aspects to any college student, especially to those that are first generational, is that of financing their college education. Some colleges will waive application fees, and others have certain scholarships for students that identify as first-generation on the Common Application. This helps students to break away from their lower-income backgrounds and reach into the world that a college degree makes available to them. Only 12.5 percent of first-generation student family incomes exceeds $106,000 a year, according to Robert Kelchen, an assistant professor at Seton Hall University. When asked how they pay for college, Stephen Rydzak ’21 said, “I can’t
balance work during the semester, so I work one full time job over the summer, then work a few side jobs to pay the balance on my tuition. A typical week is between 60-80 hours.” With colleges growing increasingly expensive and competitive, applying to college can be intimidating to anyone. You experience challenges that your parents cannot help you with while you are navigating a new world, possibly living in a new state, hours away from anyone you know. On top of that, the pressure from parents who want you to graduate since they never had the opportunity is something that first-generation students experience. When the time comes to receive your degree, you will do it knowing that you were the first to do so in your family and that you have opened a plethora of new doors for yourself.
10 diversity
Red & Black
8 november 2019
Is It Possible To Open Up To Open-Mindedness?
Courtesy Dribble
It’s really important to keep an open-mind when speaking to others who have different opinions than you.
Kiley Miller Red & Black Contributor
How often do you engage with other prospective students about controversial issues? Do you find yourself holding back from having certain conversations in fear of other perspectives? There are short-term and long-term benefits to practicing open-mindedness. Arguing a certain viewpoint with logical reasoning builds confidence. When someone explains their own opinion about an issue, you should not end the conversation by proving that your view is the correct one. Addressing your own opinion and hearing other oppositional arguments helps to strengthen your ability to effectively
communicate differences in opinion. Listening to other viewpoints prevents you from holding one-sided viewpoints. In the long run, having open-minded conversations influences how you respond to more difficult or sensitive topics in the future. For college students, open-minded interactions prepare students for constructive conversations in their future career. Students who engage in open-mindedness conversations and hear opposing viewpoints are more likely to be open to change and take on new experiences following graduation. Currently, the debate on how to mitigate environmental issues is a hot subject. If you are someone who is environmentally friendly and forbids the use of plastic, and you know someone who continues to use it, then chances are that the two of you have very different viewpoints. Being an environmentalist, how do you respectfully
communicate your opinion with the plastic user? It is important to listen and acknowledge their view in order to form a strong contrasting opinion that also protects the person’s feelings. If they say they use plastic because it is more affordable and saves on the water bill, then you know where to set your standpoint. Although plastic is cheap and allows you to put money elsewhere, 8 million plastics enter the oceans per year. Research has already shown that plastic is contained in sea salt, 94 percent of U.S. tap water and shellfish. Although using plastic may save some money, the impact on the health of organisms, including you, is far more important. Do you plan on having a job that employs people that share viewpoints similar to your own? The likelihood of this possibility is slim to none. Once graduation passes and the real
clock begins, you will meet many new people. It is important to be mindful and prepare ahead of time before you slip on your white coat or polished shoes. If you continue to live a life with a closed mind, you may find it difficult to actively participate in open discussions. Instead, your ideas will remain closed off from the rest of the world. When asked if they find it easy to talk with other students about controversial issues, Cameron Wormack ‘23 said, “No, I find it difficult talking to other students about controversial topics. My opinions are often in the minority, so I feel like there is a greater chance of conflict, and I am non-confrontational kind of person.” When asked the same question, Nicole Fitch ’20 said, “No, people get too defensive and cut you off if you disagree with them or flat out say your reasoning is irrelevant.”
8 november 2019
Red & Black
diversity
Hate Crimes Towards Transgender Women in Chile Matías Martinez Red & Black Contributor
I remember a couple a months ago, the LGBTQ+ students, or as we called ourselves the “dissidence assembly”— organized a panel with transgender activists and philosophers that specialized in the area of gender. It was the very first time that most of my peers had heard about the “transgender world” because cisgender and transgender people still live two sepa-rate realities, sometimes even their entire lives. One of the transgender feminists who spoke was Anastasia Maria Benavente, an artist and a language professor who also helped to in-augurate the “transgender house” along with the collective “Amanda Jofré,” a house for homeless transgender people and sex workers in Chile. Anastasia is also an activist in Red-LacTrans, a Latin American non-governmental organization composed of transgender women who work for visibility, participation, and political influence throughout Latin America and the Caribbean regions. She was the very first person I ever heard talking about the “transgender genocide”. Some people were about to cry when listening to those facts and stories. She started asking some questions: “Who of you have or have had a trans mom/dad? Have you ever had a trans teacher or professor? Have you ever been attended by a trans dentist or doctor? Have you ever had a trans employer or supervisor?” None of the 200 attendees raised their hands. Transgender people historically have been segregated in our society, a high percentage of them (40% to 50% percent) have been ex-
pelled from their houses being underaged. Additionally, she asked “What do we do when we are expelled from our houses being 15?” Well, we have no other option but going to the streets, where heterosexual men and pedophiles abuse us. It was never sex work at that age; it was sexual abuse,” said Anastasia. It is also no secret that many of them have committed sui-cide. According to RedLacTrans research studies, transgender women in Latin America and the Caribbean’s life expectancy is no longer than 3540 years old. Also, only 1 out of 5 of them have been able to finish primary education. Anastasia’s perspective about this is the following, “This is the product of systematic and historical violence we have faced. There is a whole system of beliefs that was installed by force in our societies since colonialism. It was installed a perspective of sex and gender that is completely binary, where women are subordinated to men and the private life, but also in which transgender women have been violented and historically segregated, even in our own education: the curriculum is still sexist and patriarchal.” More than 1,200 LGBTQ+ people have been murdered in Latin American between 2014 and 2019; most of them transgender women, and they often involve being the most brutal. Dandara dos Santos 42’ in Brazil was hit, tortured, shot, and her head was hit with rocks in 2017. Claudia Vera 30’ died after being shot five times in Peru this year. Alessa Flores 28’ from Mexico was strangled to death in 2016. Anastasia’s talk finished by saying, “you are the ones in charge of changing this reality. If we want to transform our societies, we need to destroy the binary system. In the meantime, transgender women’s biggest revolution will be getting older”.
Courtesy Matías Martinez
Chile is not the only place in the world where transgender rights are not enforced.
12 Culture
culture Red & Black
8 November 2019
Movie Review: “Arrival,” Starring Amy Adams Matías Rojas Red & Black Contributor
“There are days that define your story beyond your life, like the day they arrived,” says Dr. Banks (Amy Adams). The beginning of this film is full of exciting facts and symbols that will make spectators think about the philosophical aspects of humans and societies. Most sci-fi movies are about futuristic societies involving spaceships or advanced technologies, alien invasions, and even androids. However, sci-fi movies can also include dystopian top-ics that may not be far from our realities. The Arrival is a story about what most people would see as a conventional alien invasion. Nevertheless, it considers more realistic human reactions. At first, big spaceships arrive in different spots on Earth. They remain floating in the air without establishing contact while governments send their military services and sci-entific specialists to figure out what alien’s intentions are. One of the specialists’ name is Louise Banks, a very well-known Doctor in Linguistics who is recruited by the US military to help them to establish some communication. Little by little,
Courtesy Comic Book Movie
“Arrival,” is a dramatic thriller starring Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner.
language becomes one of the main topics of this film. This movie is for those who like reflecting on how our life is in general. However, It is not just thinking about the concept of “language” but also thinking about how it can influence the way we perceive reality. The film could also make people think about how our societies react to global issues, especially when decisions need to be made and quickly.
Since there is no international leader, countries need to organize among themselves to deal with the global emergency. Something unusual about this movie is the atmosphere created, especially for the acting and its relationship with the visual effects and sound editing. The detail to special effects can especially be seen every time Dr. Banks es-tablishes a close connection with the “heptapods,” and they can com-
municate in the alien language. To watch this movie, you may need to pay attention to the different details that can appear and the various dialogues about language, time, and perception of reality. You may feel it is similar to watching “Interstellar,” “Annihilation,” “Enemy,” “Blade Runner,” and “Cloud Atlas.” Take some time to watch it and enjoy this dramatic and compelling story.
8 November 2019
Culture 13
Red & Black
Story Corner: “My Dog Charlie” Continued
Courtesy Aaron Iwiniski
Last week’s issue featured a story titled ‘My Dog Charlie” by Aaron Iwinski. Above is a picture of Charlie, the dog that the story centers around.
“In the Tall Grass:” A Netflix Original Review Lauren Phillips Red & Black Staff
Despite the recent ending of this year’s Halloween season, winter remains a great time to enjoy a scary movie with friends huddled around a bowl of popcorn with hot chocolate to fight off Washington’s cold weather. Luckily, Netflix is not in short supply for spooky movies, one of which is titled “In the Tall Grass.” Released this past October, In the Tall Grass is based on the Stephen King and Joe Hill novel of the same name. The film is a Netflix Original and stars Patrick Wilson. Brother and sis-
ter Cal and Becky stumble upon a field of tall grass in which they hear a boy crying for help. Without thinking too much about entering the field, they attempt to help the boy find his way out. They quickly learn that there is far more to the tall grass and have a very difficult time trying to escape. They eventually uncover the true evil that resides at the center of the grass and the malicious impacts it has had on those within the grass. “In the Tall Grass” puts a rather interesting spin on a standard horror trope and implements both supernatural and humanistic elements to scare audiences. Audiences spend a large part of the movie questioning the true nature of the grass, though the pacing and build
up to the climax can sometimes feel a bit slow. Another component to this movie is the manipulation of time. Throughout the film, we often see flashbacks that provide more insight into a certain event that has already happened. While these overlapping segments can sometimes get a bit confusing if viewers are not paying close attention, the plot and desire to understand the characters motivates the audience to piece together the story of “In the Tall Grass.” The performances by the cast also feel very genuine and intense, with Patrick Wilson standing out with his villainous performance. Though horror is not far from Wilson’s realm of acting, his performance
as well as all others are yet another reason for the audience to be hooked. “‘In the Tall Grass’ was a very good movie that I really enjoyed,” says Christine Sonnenberg ’22. “But, if you don’t enjoy being scared, then I wouldn’t suggest watching this. It can be very intense and graphic at some parts.” “In the Tall Grass” does a good job at balancing a hefty plot with moments of gore, scares, and an overall dramatic tone. The film is beautifully shot and compelling enough to captivate an audience to discover the truth that lies within the grass. “In the Tall Grass” is available on Netflix, and is certainly worth viewing for those who enjoy psychological horror and similar works by Stephen King.
14 Culture
Red & Black
This Week’s Poetry Corner Brieanna Sutherland Red & Black Managing Editor
A cup of coffee with a stranger one day No. Not strange, somehow familiar. Is this a date? It felt like going home or falling asleep. But I am wide awake. Then the days that follow, More cups of coffee, Long converstaions, Warm breaths, Lips touching lattes and cappuccino. Lips touching, Warm breath on cheeks. The Autumn is cold. Coffee houses chase the chill From our bones. And the loneliness from Our souls. Then one day Everything is new And beautiful Each day I wake up. And we drink our morning coffee.
8 November 2019
8 November 2019
opinions Red & Black
15 Opinions
The ‘Contemporary’ President’s Row Dylan Bertovich Red & Black Staff
The residents of the newly renovated halls have recently received an email apologizing for their conditions. These conditions include none functioning heating or cooling and rolling blackouts. Amanda Fitzpatrick 21’ stated, “I came back to my dorm after studying, and the lights were off, and I went into the bathroom, and there was no power.” She went on to say that this is a com-mon occurrence in the building. In my building, Lincoln, there have been issues since the day that we moved in. In our group chat, there are daily messages about the problems,
including a resident saying, “I’m tired of sweating through my sheets every night.” The heating and cooling systems have not worked most of the semester, even though we have been told they would be fixed. I reached out to res-life, who has yet to respond to the following questions: Is there a plan for the students if the heaters aren’t working this winter? Are the students getting compensation because the rooms have not been “contemporary” by any means, i.e., they don’t have AC, and there are still holes in the walls and other issues throughout all the rooms? Is there a plan to complete the next buildings without issue? Does the college think that it took on too much with these renovations? The major issue is that the halls are not done in a way that is both efficient and organized. We were told by Lauryn Nett, “Firstly, I would like to apologize
for the number of issues that the renovated Presidents Row buildings have been having. It has been frustrating on our end, and I’m sure it has been even more frustrating on your end, as you are all living in the building and directly experiencing these problems. I wish I could have a better solution than just telling you all when workers are going to be in the buildings and attempting to fix problems.” Res-Life, with emails like this and asking stu-
Courtesy Washjeff
W&J recently renovated several of the buildings in President’s Row.
C ontac t
E ditorial P olicy The Red & Black is the official, registered student-produced newspaper of Washington & Jefferson College. It is published Fridays with the exception of exams and break periods. Editorials are based upon the opinion of the respective writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper, the
College or its students, faculty, or administration. The Red & Black welcomes all reader contributions, but reserves the right to reject letters of pure promotional nature, as well as letters which do not meet its standard of integrity, accuracy and decency. The Red & Black also reserves the right to edit submissions.
dents to move into unfished buildings with live wires hanging in the showers, is disrespectful. Is an unfished and barely functioning building considered “con-temporary?” Should students have to pay more to live in these buildings? If the college is like a cruise ship where people pay for suitable accommodations, shouldn’t the business we all attend provide them?
Letters are due on the Monday before publication and may not exceed 600 words. All letters must include the author’s name, campus box and telephone number. Names may be withheld upon request under certain conditions on rare occasions. All letters may be submitted to redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu.
Telephone: FAX: E-mail: Mailing Address:
(724) 223-6049 (724) 503-1049 redandblackstaff@jay. washjeff.edu Red & Black 60 S. Lincoln St. Washington, PA 15301
16 opinions
Red & Black
8 November 2019
Don’t Double Dip at Commons
Courtesy Washjeff
There are greater concerns in the handling of food by students.
Brieanna Sutherland Red & Black Managing Editor
In The Commons, I noticed multiple people were using the condiment knives directly on their food. This was a huge red flag for me, knowing that many people have food allergies and sensitivities. I understand that some people may not think about it twice, but for other people, it can be extremely harmful.
Most people know better than to mix the peanut butter with the jelly knife because it contaminants the condiments. The same rule applies for touching the food on another person’s plate. The utensils to retrieve food from the salad bar should never touch food outside of what it is serving. The food is out for everyone, which means students should be courteous to others. Cross-contamination can be a serious issue if someone has a food allergy. Imagine taking your gluten-free bread and putting peanut butter on it. Even though they avoided gluten, the last person may not have. The last person may have used the serving knife directly on their bread. If that
bread was not gluten-free, it could be harmful to the next person. When asked about the situation, Marygrace Depp ’20 said, “It is very dangerous and can lead to major health issues for someone without realizing it.” Food allergies vary in severity, so it is always better safe than sorry. That does not mean those with allergies should be limited from most of the food options just because they are allergic to one of the items. Ashlynn Faulkner ’20 commented, “It is important to think about other people’s health as much as yourself when eating in The Commons.” The same idea goes for those who do get their own knife, thinking it is more sanitary but touch it to their food and then back into the jelly is
equally as harmful. Mixing food from your plate to the serving dishes is a potential hazard. Hopefully, those with allergies brows The Commons with caution. Having good food courtesy is important; general knowledge can be not only kind but also helpful to those who have to be more careful with what they eat. To those looking to be more courteous, make sure you put the condiment on your plate and then use a separate knife to apply it to the food. It is not the worker’s job to babysit students and make sure they are not cross-contaminating the food. Be courteous of those who have allergies, and think twice when placing food on plates and food.
8 November 2019
Red & Black
Sports 17
The Benefits of Jayterm Courses Alondra Martinez Osorno Red & Black Contributor
Jayterm refers to courses offered during the month of January. Often, schools have a prolonged break between the Fall and Spring semester. Washington and Jefferson College offers both domestic and international courses during this break. Currently, the courses offered are 2.00 credit courses that include a variety of topics. This semester, I plan on taking a Jayterm course, but I would like to describe the evolution of my Jayterm course schedule and how it is beneficial to me. During my freshman year I decided to take a course during January. This period was formerly known as intersession. I decided to do so in order to get ahead on credits. I was aware of the school-wide requirements and wanted to take a course that would fulfill one. As a freshman, I registered last but was fortunate enough to get into FRN 157: France and the French-Speaking World. During this time period the course counted as a diversity credit. The remarkable feature about Intersession was that it lasted three weeks and was a 4.00 credit course! Interestingly, non-science majors could take a fun chemistry cooking class with a lab that would count as their science requirement. During my sophomore year Jayterm was disappointingly reduced to only two weeks of classes. At this
point, some students didn’t see the benefit of taking a 2.00 credit course when they could use the break to work back home. I think that Jayterm is functional because I was able to take a chemistry course, CHM 165, that facilitated the transition between my inorganic chemistry courses. Additionally, students could take a two-week course to fulfill the physical activity and health and wellness
requirement. Finally, this year I am planning on taking advantage of the travel courses, but only thanks to the Greb Award. With this scholarship I will be able to go on the BIO 224: Tropical Ecology and Conservation in Costa Rica trip. In my case, the financial assistance will allow me to go on a trip that is led by professors educated on the topic. The trip is relevant to my goals and the current discussion of conserving the
nature of this Earth. Overall, Jayterm may not be for everyone depending on the goals they hope to reach during the break, but it is worth at least taking once even though it is no longer a requirement for students. My greatest advice would be to not hesitate, and if you are truly interested in a course know that it will be a relaxed version of a full semester course. In this way you can enjoy learning without the stress.
Courtesy Washjeff
Students at W&J had the opportunity to take a Jayterm course with Dr. Kilgore to travel to the Sonoran Border to learn about the impacts of US border policy on marginalized peoples.
18 Sports
sports Red & Black
8 NOvember 2019
Men’s Soccer Remain Undefeated in the PAC Patrick Brunner Red & Black Staff
The Washington and Jefferson Men’s soccer season finished their regular season against The Grove City College Wolverines Saturday, November 1st. The team celebrated seniors Ryan Cerbus, Christian Payne, Junior Mensah, Gavin Pritchard, and Gary Olson as they played their last regular-season game at Alexandre Stadium. The Presidents have not defeated Grove City Col-lege in the previous seven years but was hoping to win the number one seed in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference. The Presidents started off the game strong with Jake Fetterman ’21 scoring a quick goal in the tenth minute, his fifth goal of the season and fifteenth point. The goal came off a corner placed by Christian Payne ’20 and redirected by Ryan Cerbus ’20 before Fetterman was able to put it away. The goal was the only one on the day as both teams’ superb defense and goalkeeping kept the score low. The game was a back and forth battle between the two teams, but the President’s defense never wavered as the Wolverines were only able to have two shots on goal, both deflected
away by goalkeeper Samuel Miller ’22. Ian Donlon ’21 split time with Miller but did not need to make a save as the defense for the Presidents dominated. This was the first conference shutout for the Presidents this year. With the 1-0 victory over Grove City College, the President’s claim the number one seed in the PAC playoffs. Nick Maknoon ’21 commented on the result of the game and the season saying, “We all are proud how we have come together in conference play. We are confident in our abilities and are
hoping to carry the momentum of the number one seed into the playoffs.” The President’s will face the Wolverines again later in the week for the PAC semi-final game. Last year in the President’s fell to Grove City in the semi-finals and look to avenge their 2018 season-ending loss. Micheal Komaniak ’22 and Alvaro Viadas ’21 finish the regular season leading the team with 21 points each. Goalkeeper Miller ended the regular season with 45 saves while Donlon finished with 35 saves. The Presidents
also finish the season undefeated in the PAC conference at 7-0-1and 10-72 overall, their best season in the last four years. Donlon spoke on the upcoming PAC playoffs saying, “With the number one seed we know we have a target on our back. It is never easy beating the same team twice in a row but if we play the way we are capable we should be able to gain a birth into the champion-ship.” Come out and support the President’s on their incredible season. Be loud, Be Proud, Go Presidents!
Courtesy Gopresidents.com
The Presidents securred the first seed in the upcoming PAC playoffs where they play Grove City College.
8 novemeber 2019
Red & Black
19 sports
Women’s Soccer Fall in Season Finale Patrick Brunner Red & Black Staff
The Washington and Jefferson Women’s lacrosse team took on Presidents Athletic Conference rivals in Grove City College. The Presidents were looking to take down the number one seed of the conference to give them better seeding in the upcoming PAC Championship playoffs. The team also celebrated their senior night, honoring seniors Beth Boyles, Courtney Finney, Wies Achtereekte, and Chandler Marteeny. The first half was a defensive battle, with Shayla Watkins ’22 making four saves to keep the Wolverines out of the net. Unfortunately, the Presidents
were not able to score either, with both teams shut out, ending the half at a 0-0 draw. Katie Hahn ’22 was able to kick off the game in scoring netting one to put the Presidents in the lead early in the second half. The Wolverines were not able to score until late in the game, tying it up at 1-1. Even with a late Watkins save, the Wolverines were able to score with only a couple minutes in the game left. This was the first conference loss for the Presidents this year. They fall to 4-1-3 in the conference and 6-8-3 on the year. However, with the third seed in the PAC Championship, they will travel to Grove City College to take on the Wolverines again. Marteeny spoke after the game saying, “Regardless of the result of this matchup, we know what we are capable of. This postseason, we feel like we not only have something to prove to the conference, but also to ourselves and we do that this week against Grove City.” The Presidents are looking to make an impact in this year’s champi-
Courtesy Gopresidents.com
The Presidents are looking to make a big impact in this year’s PAC playoffs.
onship after losing in the semi-finals last year to Westminster. Marcy Saldivar ’21 led the team in scoring in the regular season finishing with seven goals and fifteen points while Hahn put in five of her own during the course of the season. Saldivar commented on the game and the upcoming matchup against Grove City College saying, “Even though
they were able to sneak two past us, we played a solid game. There was some hopeful forward generation. We are excited to match them again and are determined for a different result.” Watkins led the goalkeepers with 70 saves in the regular season. Support the women’s soccer team as they play in the PAC tournament this week. Be loud, Be proud, Go Presidents.
Courtesy Gopresidents.com
Brianna McGowan ‘21 makes a play at the ball for the Presidents.
20 sports
Red & Black
8 November 2019
Last Week’s Scores Nov. 2:
Men’s Cross Country at PAC Championships: 2nd Overall Women’s Cross Country at PAC Championships: 7th Overall Feild Hockey vs Hartwick College: 0-2 L Vollyball at Waynesburg Universtiy: 1-3 L Men’s Soccer vs Grove City College: 1-0 W Men’s Swim at Westminister College: 70.5 - 160.5 L Women’s Swim at Westminister College: 73.5 - 147.5 Women’s Soccer at Grove City: 1-2 L
Nov. 3:
Wrestling at Lycoming College Invitational Top Results: Hunter Neely 3-0 Jared Walker 3-0 Alex Donahue 3-0 Manny Dovshek 3-0 Daniel Florentino 3-1 Logan Marko 3-0 Micheal Heinl 2-1
Next Week’s Games Courtesy Gopresidents.com
Nov. 9:
Men’s Water Polo at Mid-Atlantic Water Polo Championship Wrestling at Washington and Jefferson Invitational Football vs St. Vincent College: 1:00pm Men’s Swim at Chatam Women’s Swim at Chatam Men’s Soccer PAC Championship: TBA Women’s Soccer PAC Championship: TBA
Nov. 10:
Men’s Water Polo at Mid- Atlantic Water Polo Championship
Nov. 12:
Men’s Basketball vs Pitt-Greensburg: 6:00pm Women’s Basketball vs Pitt-Greensburg: 8:00pm
Courtesy Gopresidents.com