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 r e d a n d b l a c ko n l i n e . c o m w a s h i n g t o n , p e n n s y lva n i a september 16, 2016
WOMEN’S SOCCER REIGNS PAGE 19 Courtesy Jordan Toohey
CAMPUS: STUDENT EDGE APP PAGE 5
OPINIONS: ROOM DAMAGES PAGE 17
2 CAMPUS NEWS
Red & Black
16 S eptember 2016
W&J Offers 2017 Intersession Trip in London
Courtesy Daniel and Arlene Shaw
Pictured above, the 2016 London Intersession group visiting the historic landmark, Big Ben.
Catherine McAdoo Red&Black Contributor
You have probably already seen posters around campus advertising the 2017 London Intersession course. If you have ever taken the time to actually read the posters, you will know that the deadline to apply is Sept. 30, the total cost is around $4000 and it has something to do with theatre. While two intersessions are required for graduation and very few people would consider international travel a bore, most students will likely never even consider taking this trip because of the
cost. After all, $4000 is a lot of money, especially for a full time student. However, Daniel Shaw, who is organizing the trip and works as the designer/ technical director of Olin, asks students to look beyond the intimidating number and really think about how much that money is buying. The trip lasts two and a half weeks and includes 11 expert productions and daily tours. For the same price, you can stay in Pittsburgh for six days and see three shows with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. In Shaw’s words, “You would not be able to travel like this if you were not a student.”
Expensive? Yes, but quite possibly worth it. What do past members of the London Intersession have to say? In the summer of 2015, Jackie Anderson ‘18 spent several weeks in London for her Magellan Project. She was “infected by the travel bug” and signed up for the 2016 London Intersession with Shaw. She was expecting to visit a lot of familiar sites, watch some cool plays and maybe get a chance to absorb more of the diverse city. What she did not expect was just how much of a difference traveling with a group of friends under the guidance of a London
expert would make. Four Star hotels are better than hostels, fancy dinners are better than McDonald’s, and being led by a London expert is better than stumbling around on your own. Not to mention that these many once-in-alifetime experiences are had with friends. Last year’s group went to see a variety of plays including “As You Like It,” “Richard III” and “War Horse,” went to four museums, and took a boating tour of the Thames. This year’s exact itinerary is yet to be determined, and so is the pricing, as the Brexit decision and upcoming November elections are fluctuating the
exchange rates. Generally, these fluctuations are in students’ favor. Shaw assures students that even if your only experience with theatre has been being forced to watch “Romeo and Juliet” in high school, there will be something in this trip for you- should you choose to take advantage of it. After all, London is one of the most culturally diverse cities on Earth. As Samuel Johnson said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” Students who would like more details can contact Daniel Shaw via email at dshaw@washjeff.edu.
16 S eptember 2016
Red & Black
3 CAMPUS NEWS
Freshman Spotlight: Hannah McGee Alex York Red&Black Contributor
For Washington and Jefferson students, freshman year marks the beginning of innumerable opportunities to grow, change, and experience everything the world has to offer. Hannah McGee is just one of many new students hoping to take advantage of these possibilities in the coming year and beyond. McGee, a resident of Eighty Four, Pa., comes to W&J from the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School: a digital learning environment offered statewide. Having spent most of her high school career outside of the traditional school system, McGee has faced the challenges of readjusting to a more community-based atmosphere. “As a cyber stu-
dent, it’s socially isolating,” McGee said. “Whether or not you do other extracurricular activities, there’s something about going to school with people for 8 hours a day… you make a lot of really deep connections.” Despite the difficulties of becoming accustomed to campus life, however, McGee is excited to develop her social circle past ordinary boundaries. “I’ve been making a lot of friends and acquaintances with the international students... I find them so interesting and I could listen to them talk about whatever all day.” While McGee has frequently engaged herself with her local community- whether through theatre programs, a variety of different sports or her own odd jobs business Hannah’s Helping Hands- she aims to become a well-rounded global citizen, a process that began this past summer. “This is my first election that
I’ll be able to vote in… so I [am] really into politics,” McGee explained. “I attended the Bernie Sanders rally when he came to Pittsburgh and also the Donald Trump rally… I love controversy and talking about politics and religion… so I wanted to see what the different viewpoints were.” McGee has her mind set on a potential career in international studies – an interest which heavily influenced her decision to enroll with the college. “I chose W&J because of the amazing plethora of international opportunities they have here,” she said. “When I heard about the Magellan Project and the intersessions and the studying abroad, I was astounded, first of all, especially about the Magellan Project… That is one of those ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is’ things. But apparently it’s not.” While McGee’s travelling experience is limited to the
Courtesy Alex York
Hannah McGee '20, is most excited to take advantage of the Magellan program.
United States, she hopes these opportunities will allow her to witness a variety of cultures and lifestyles worldwide. To date, she intends to spend a summer working with the Africa Yoga Project, an organization dedicated to inspiring the people of impoverished African nations through the art of
yoga. Like most of her fellow students, Hannah McGee has great dreams for her future. Though she is still unsure which direction her path will ultimately take her, she plans to use every resource available in order to achieve her ambitions – no matter where they might take her.
Press Release:
LIBRARY ANNOUNCES OPTION TO GET ANSWERS VIA CHAT OR TEXT Change has come to the library: Students can now contact on-duty librarians via text messages or a chat window on the U. Grant Miller Library’s web page. The text and chat options are available whenever a librarian is at the Research Services desk; messages that are
sent if the desk is not staffed will be saved, and a librarian will respond as soon as possible. The library is testing the service over the next few weeks, giving students and faculty a chance to ask questions from wherever they’re working. “We want everyone
to reach the library in the way they feel most comfortable,” said Ronalee Ciocco, the director of library services. “Adding a chat option is a great way to answer quick questions for those who can’t get to the library to talk with someone in person.” These new options are in addition to
the library’s in-person reference services, its email reference at asklib@washjeff.edu, and telephone reference at X6072. The library also added an FAQ section to the web site where students can search for answers to frequently asked questions about printing at
the library, building hours, and many other topics. All of the Library’s contact information can be found at http:// libguides.washjeff.edu/home. Additional questions, comments or concerns can be directed to Amy Welch at awelch@washjeff.edu or by phoning X6084.
4 CAMPUS NEWS
Red & Black
16 S eptember 2016
Magellan Spotlight: Ethan Heller Hannah Kail Red&Black Contributor
For most people, “Game of Thrones” is simply a show binge-watched on HBO from the comfort of their couch. Its setting in the mystical land of Northern Ireland is simply a wild location fans dream about exploring. Last summer however, Ethan Heller ‘18 got to tour the cliffs, the rolling hills, and the castles of Game of Thrones' set as part of his Magellan Project in Northern Ireland. During the workweek Heller interned with TIDES, a government funded organization, to promote the ongoing process of peace
talks between Catholics and Protestants in the area. He worked in the organization's office doing paperwork and other office tasks. It wasn't all desk work though. Heller's main project involved going out into the community and getting to know the people-especially at risk youth. "We would go hangout, play soccer and just try to build trust with them. The goal of TIDES is to create that connection with people and encourage the kids to enroll in conflict and resolution classes. Starting from the ground up is the best way to really make a difference in these kinds of situations," Heller said. During weekends and evenings Heller
explored places like Dublin and Edinburgh, making new friends from places all over the world. It wasn't all great experiences however. He found himself pickpocketed in Dublin after spending the night exploring the city with friends. "I spent a few days eating rice and tuna from a can until I was able to have my mom send me a new card," he said. Heller got the idea for the Magellan from a lecture given at Washington & Jefferson by Mary Montague, a renowned mediator known for her work in the Northern Ireland conflict. After having the opportunity to eat lunch with Ms. Montague and continuing communication through
email, he was alerted to the internship opportunity with TIDES. Heller hopes to do as much traveling as he can while he's still young. "There's nothing like being able to immerse yourself into a new culture and to get to know the people and figure out the way they view the world. Everybody looks at things differently and you'd be amazed at some of the things you can learn from them." Heller said that he wouldn't trade the month and a half abroad for anything and he encourages everyone to take advantage of the opportunity to travel. "The experience of being completely reliant on myself for everyday things such as transportation, food
Courtesy gopresidents.com
Heller completed a Magellan in Northern Ireland this summer.
and housing was unlike anything I'd ever experienced before. It made me realize how much I was capable of doing on my own and gave me a greater sense of confidence."
How to Share a Culture: The Indian Culture Association Catherine McAdoo Red&Black Contributor
The all-world Gayatri Periwar organization describes India as “Sa Prathama Sanskrati Vishvavara,” which translates to “The first and supreme culture in the world.” India is the birthplace of both Buddhism and Hinduism, originating thousands of years ago. The country is so diverse it doesn’t even have an official language. It boasts the world’s second largest population. On Monday, the Washington & Jefferson Indian Culture
Association had its first meeting. They chose a President, Amiti Sharma, and a vice president, Maya Nilkant. Mostly, though, they decided how exactly they plan to experience the great culture of India to its fullest and to share it with the W&J community. They have a lot of plans. Part of Monday’s meeting was discussing the logistics behind bringing the entire club to the largest Hindu temple in the area. Also, later in the year, to a professional dance competition that includes traditional Indian dances.
The club is also planning on hosting at least two major events that will be open to the entire campus. First, coming up on Oct. 30, is Diwali: The Festival of Lights. In past years, this has taken place in the hub, where for a few hours, students and professors alike are welcome to come down for some free food, good music and craft projects – all Indian in origin, of course. The other major event taking place near the end of the spring semester is A Night in India. This is a much larger celebration that includes professional dance teams, henna tattoos, ethnic food, a raffle and anything else the
club can come up with. They have some exciting plans in the works. Another event they are considering for this year is a celebration of Holi, The Festival of Colors and Love. I am told that this will involve gathering as many people as possible onto one of the college’s lawns to throw paint at each other. This would take place in the spring. More than anything else, the members of this club have a genuine passion for Indian culture, particularly the new president and vice president. When asked just why they love India so much, the first thing out of Maya’s mouth was
Courtesy Amiti Sharma
Amiti Sharma ‘17, President of ISA.
simply, “It’s the best country in the world.” With the club’s help, maybe the W&J community will come to the same conclusion in the coming months.
16 S eptember 2016
Red & Black
5 CAMPUS NEWS
Junior Develops "Student Edge" App Lauren Markish Red&Black Contributor
Jordan Bechek, a junior here at Washington and Jefferson College, has just released his very own app in hopes of helping students keep track of their grades, assignments, GPAs and academic goals. Starting six months ago in an app design and development class last semester, Bechek was given the assignment to make an app as his final project. As for how he arrived at the idea for Student’s Edge, Bechek says, “We had to either solve a problem that hadn’t already been solved, or solve a problem that has been solved but in a better way. This app is what I came up with since I do these kinds of calculations all the time.” Instead of letting the app’s development end when the class did, Bechek decided to turn it into his own personal side project. He feels that the app is not only something that is helpful to him, but will help all students keep track of their academics in a simple and convenient way. Student’s Edge makes calculations for users to not only see what their current grades are, but also to help students decipher how well they need to perform on an assignment in order to boost or keep their current overall grade. Users of the app simply need to enter their class schedule, and enter the grades they receive on each assignment. Students can also set personal
FIND US ONLINE REDANDBLACKONLINE.COM
Courtesy play.google.com
This free app can be downloaded on Apple and Android devices.
goals for their courses. From that point, the app will organize all of one's classwork and assignment grades for her, as well as help the student understand what needs to be done in order to meet her goals. Bechek explains the app will “keep track of your GPA and goals, and tell you which goals you met.” Fellow friends and W&J students who have downladed Bechek's new app have only had positive reviews about it. Katie Campbell '18 said, "Jordan's app addresses a problem that, as far as I know, has never been addressed before. Whereas before I used to calculate my grade each time I got back an assignment or exam and then would attempt
to figure out what I needed on my other major assignments in order to get the grade that I wanted, now I can just enter the grade on the assignment I got back and Student's edge does the rest for me. It is so much more convenient." Between sorting out bugs, creating a brand and even the simple start of coming up with an idea, Bechek has put a lot of time and effort into developing Student’s Edge. He, however, believes that it was definitely worthwhile, and says that he plans on developing more apps in the future. Student’s Edge is a free app, available for download in the App Store as well as in the Google Play store.
Red & Black Established 1909 Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Social Media Chair Campus News Editor Life Editor Culture Editor Opinions Editor Sports Editor Copy Editor Copy Editor Business Manager Distribution Manager Adviser
Emily Sterk Katherine Campbell Leah Segal Tiffany Dittrich Shannon Adams Kayla Marasia Christopher Frydryck Jordan Toohey Abigail Pipcho Lauren Virgin siddhanta bista McKenzie Merenick mike kovak
6 LIFE
Red & Black
16 September 2016
Pokemon Go Takes Over Campus Sonja Laaksonen Red & Black Contributor
The Pokémon company announced in 2015 that they would be working with Niantic to produce a game for iOS and Android devices that would allow people to bring their Pokémon fantasies to life in the real world. In the free to play, location based augmented reality experience, released in early July of 2016, Pokémon Go allows people to venture off on their own Pokémon journey. The game is set up so that various real life locations would transition into the game’s GPS, allowing trainers to “check in” at real life locations to collect items, earn experience from PokéStops or compete at gyms. Pokémon would appear based on locations of the trainer themselves and could be captured with Pokéballs obtained at Pokéstops or bought through in-app purchases. The game is programmed so that Pokéstops, gyms and
Pokémon spawnings appear in more populated areas, making college campuses a natural hot-spot for the game’s mechanics. Washington and Jefferson College is no exception with five gyms and numerous PokéStops within walking distance from or on campus. Students, staff, and the population of Washington alike flock in order to collect items or experience, as well as attempt to claim the gyms for their selected teams. The game encourages students to go outside and exercise in order to capture Pokémon, as well as hatch eggs, which only hatch after a certain amount of distance is traveled. The game also encourages friendly competition between players as three separate teams (Valor, Mystic and Instinct) attempt to claim a gym in a “capture the flag” style. Local businesses also have reported an increase in sales due to many Pokéstops being planted at known locations and restaurants. Weary trainers often stop in for a break between playing. The game also brings together people from all walks
courtesy of Emily Sterk
Above, Shannon Adams plays Pokemon Go outside of Davis.
of life. Many people who would not usually interact are now united by the game. “It’s lit,” commented one trainer while sitting on the steps of Old Main with newly made friends who were all working together to take down and reclaim the gym located there. Despite the positive effects the game is having on the community, it has been reported to be fairly
distracting. Especially on college campuses, it is important to remind players to avoid dangerous situations and remain aware to their surroundings while attempting to capture a Pokémon. “I have to stop playing in the dark,” chuckled one trainer who reported that he had almost hit a lamp post while pursuing the ghost
type, Gengar. Don’t run across busy streets or trespass into restricted areas. The game should also not be played by a driver of any sort of vehicle due to its distracting and hands-on way of play. Despite the game being fun and entertaining, it should not consume someone’s life. Students are reminded not to neglect their studies while they become the very best.
16 September 2016
7 Life
Red & Black
Move-In Disaster Hack My Life: College Ali Sonsteby Red & Black Contributor
The transition between summer break and the beginning of the school year is always a grueling process. Here are some tips and tricks to get you through the first few weeks of Washington & Jefferson life! Do you have a hard time finding the motivation to study? Instead of studying for four hours straight, break it up. Try studying for one hour then take a 25 to 45 minute break, depending on the difficulty of the subject. If that’s not your style download an app like SelfControl it will block certain websites for a predetermined amount of time. You won’t be able to access them until the time is up! Are you worried about the dreaded freshman 15? Instead of getting pizza, opt for the salad bar. Aim for lots of protein and get a vinaigrette for your dressing. It is recommended by the American Heart Association to try to get at least 10,000 steps a day. This goal can be
met by choosing to take the stairs or simply going a longer route to your classes. Are you sick of plain ramen? Add an egg in for some extra protein. You can add it in while cooking to create an egg drop style or simply boil an egg and slice it. Don’t be afraid to add in some vegetables to get some extra nutrition and flavor! Make a list of ten things you want to accomplish this week (try a new food, speak to five new people). Get out there and better yourself! Is your dorm room smelly from all this heat lately? Try taping some dryer sheets to your fan for a light, fresh scent. Having trouble distinguishing which notebooks are for which class? Color code them! Take a marker and color the top of the notebook to easily tell which notebooks are for which class. Studying for an important test? Type into Google “site:edu [subject] exam,” and you will get practice tests similar to what you are studying. I hope some of these tips help you through your first few weeks of W&J!
courtesy of observer-reporter.com
Above, Upperclassmen volunteering to help move in the Freshman on Move-In Day!
Catherine MacAdoo Red & Black Contributor
My moving day started out like anyone else’s. My father and I struggled to find the proper parking spot, lugged boxes of books across the lawn and sent our sincere gratitude to the inventor of the air conditioner as we carried those same boxes up two flights of stairs. However, instead of finding my beautiful new bed lying in wait to restore my life force after such a labor-intensive day, I found nothing. That sad mattress simply leaning against the wall was perhaps my only hope for a night’s rest. Being the President that I am, I began to evaluate the pros and cons of my current situation. I could sleep on a mattress on the floor. After all, a flat surface is a flat surface. What difference
could it possibly make? Except these floors aren’t exactly the cleanest. But then again, it is the beginning of the year. How bad could they possibly be? That would be in inevitable dirt, unless all of the floors were cleaned yesterday. Which, well, they probably weren’t. So yes, there would be dirt. And dust. Sure the mattress will keep me a few inches above the dirt and dust for the beginning of the night. Dust and dirt do move around, however, particularly when there is a breeze. A breeze from, say, a beloved air conditioner. Dirt and dust aren’t too bad, though. A sunny window will show you that we breathe in thousands of particles of the stuff every time we so much as inhale. And dirt, well, surely there is some of the stuff in the air every time we go outside. Small pieces of it that we can’t
see -like dust! Yes, and if dust isn’t a problem (since we aren’t dead yet) dirt probably won’t be a problem either. So I was safe to sleep on my simple mattress on the floor. It could be interesting. I would be like a monk, living with only the bare necessities. This year was going to be awesome. Unless, of course, dust and dirt weren’t the only things that on that floor. What if, instead of not having been cleaned only yesterday, that floor hadn’t been cleaned properly in months, or even years, if the staff weren’t thorough. Who knows what could be living on that floor, what nocturnal critters sat in waiting until the night came and all was still. I would be feeding my uncovered head right to them. I finally decided to do what any reasonable person would do, and plan out my will. You know, just in case I didn’t make it to sunrise.
8 LIFE
16 September 2016
Red & Black
How Does Work Study On Campus Work?
courtesy of gscvoice.org
Above, Federal Work Study Program is available for students to take advantage of here at Washington & Jefferson College.
Catherine MacAdoo Red&Black Contributor
Washington & Jefferson College student employment, also known as work study, is a program that gives students the opportunity to work on campus. Students are compensated for the number of hours they worked. Normally, students work eight to ten hours per week. W&J standard pay rates are $7.25/hour for normal shifts, $8/hour for special skills/special shifts and $8.40/
hour for a student supervisor position. There are many work study positions available to eligible students which can be found on College Central Network. Three years ago, now senior Kayla Grey ’17 was hired at the campus’s library, U. Grant Miller Library. Grey says that the library is the best work study job on campus because, “The hours are very flexible, and you have more than enough time to work on homework, projects, etc. Employees also have the opportunity to meet new people.” All kinds of people visit the library such as fellow
students, professors, faculty, and local patrons. When Grey is on duty, she describes the environment
The hours are very flexible, and you have more than enough time to work on homework, projects, etc. and her daily expectations as: “The environment is super calm and very quiet (since it is the library). Everyone
that works there has positive attitudes. My daily duties include shelving books, checking books in and out of the library’s circulating system, helping people with printing and other technological tasks and helping students find books and movies. Overall, the library is a very useful place to access books, documents, movies, magazines, newspapers and more. Not only is the library a great place to study but the employees, like Grey and staff, are helpful resources to assist students with important
assignments such as research papers or projects that involve using the computers. The library is just one example of the best work study jobs on campus. All jobs that W&J offers to their students are phenomenal. Whether it is the library, residence life, the admissions house, technology center, G&Ts, the barista, the gym, etc., students are seemingly happy with their workplace and their positions. If you want to learn more about work study or are interested in eligibility, call Chris Shaffer in the office of financial aid.
16 September 2016
Before Fall Bucket List
9 Life
Red & Black
Life Advice What helps you survive the first day/week/or semester of college?
Above, campus during fall.
Sarah Peterson Red&Black Contributor
Before everything you want has pumpkin in it, you begin to think about your next Halloween costume idea and the dreaded midterms. Here is some fun stuff to do in and around Pittsburgh before September ends. -Rita’s: get you favorite flavor of Italian ice and custard before they close for the season on Sept. 30. Don’t worry, they will reopen again in March. -Krispy Kreme: Talk like a Pirate Day is on Sept. 19. Show up wearing at least three items of pirate-type clothing (such as a belt, boots, bandana) and get a FREE DOZEN of glazed donuts. Check Krispy Kreme. com for list of acceptable items to wear. This is very easy and fun way for you get a free dozen of donuts. -Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival: Taking place on Sept. 17-18, 24-25 10:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. located right off of Route 70 on Exit 51A, near West Newton Pa. Take a trip to the 16 century and see how life was back then. Even try different foods such as roast turkey legs, steak on a stake and freshly baked goods. -Pittsburgh Pirates: Catch a late regular season game at
courtesy of miraimages.photoshelter.com
PNC park. Regular season ends Oct. 2. -Kennywood: The park is open until Sept. 18. Get ready for their haunted house starting in October for Halloween. Enjoy the last weekend of the roller coasters and the log jammer before the park closes and then reopens in May. -Ligonier Highland Games: Located at Idlewild park, Sept. 24 at 8 a.m. You can see everything Scottish complete with clan competitions and ethnic food. With the clans’ tents set up, you have the opportunity to explore the history and genealogy of Scotland’s families and see if you have relation to any of them. -FestiFall: Located at the home of Albert Gallatin at Friendship hill on Sept. 24-25 in Point Marion, PA. Learn about the Pennsylvanian politician who from 1780s to 1820s helped stop the whiskey rebellion. The whiskey rebellion was when Pa. farmers decided to up rise over a federal tax on whiskey in 1790s. It was the first uprising in U.S. history after the American Revolution. The festival at Gallatin’s house includes historic trades, crafts and live period music. Learn about a local person in history and see how life was like back in the 1800s!
“I need to get off campus. Like after this meeting I am going to Moe’s. Getting off campus really helps.” -Christopher Frydryck
courtesy of Shannon Adams
“Make a point to organize because if you do not start at the beginning of the year, it is all downhill from there.” -Leah Segal
courtesy of Shannon Adams
“Take things one step at a time. If you try to get back into the academic setting too quickly, you might get overwhelmed.”
courtesy of Shannon Adams
10 Culture
Red & Black
16 S eptember 2016
culture W&J Artist Spotlight: Empowerment through Art Capri Backus Red&Black Contributor Words convey the personal alacrities and despairs of living. They’re the mechanisms for depictions, questions, and communications. In this universe spun together by deep emotional connections, words share the emotional costs of our experiences. Similarly, simple yellow ochres and prestigious lapis lazuli pigments alike have anchored the hearts of artists to their viewers for millennia. As sophomore Maddison Rhodes succinctly summed, “Art is key to daily life.” The beauty of art is complex. In the course of our interview, Rhodes described “the emotions felt when looking at a piece are indescribable in the best way. The only feeling better than the one you get looking at something that really speaks to you is the feeling of satisfaction you get
after making that wonderfully astonishing piece with your bare hands.” Art’s inherent aesthetic appeal propels a powerful process. Whether it’s through social media, literature or simple conversations, art joins the list of life-long pursuits humanity uses to connect, share and inspire. In short, it’s a passionate, colorful method of understanding ourselves and each other. Since childhood, Rhodes has used a plethora of mediums to express herself. Ranging from drawing, painting and sculpting to dancing, she says, “There is something amazing about creating something and being able to say, ‘I made that.’ It’s truly special.” For Rhodes, art is both a passion and a therapeutic release: a combination of paint, reflection and empowerment. Maddi’s former suitemate, Ke’alohi Worthingon, describes
Courtesy Maddi Rhodes
Maddi Rhodes’ introspective piece, shown above, is featured in a gallery exhibit. The piece reflects her personal empowerment after adversity.
Maddi’s art as, “modern, classic, and eclectic all in one. It’s a perfect expression of her.” The piece depicted in this article is a plaster mold of her own hand, torso, and arm—a piece that describes the transition of reclaiming control after destruction. With her own molded hand supporting and extending her body, Rhodes explains that the piece depicts “putting
yourself out there after feeling restricted.” Through sculpting the physical and literal aspect of the metaphor “putting oneself out there,” Rhodes evokes the emotional vulnerability and the independence it’s associated with. The piece, in literal presence, is a personal tribute to a change in her life and perspective. All art reflects
a point of view—one that underlines a universal cycle of questioning and answering how we live and how we share our lives. For Rhodes, this process is one she couldn’t live without. “There is nothing I love more than making a piece of art that depicts how I’m feeling. It’s always new and exciting. Art is the purest escape.”
16 S eptember 2016
Culture 11
Red & Black
K-pop Artist Releases Solo Debut Catherine McAdoo Red&Black Contributor One of the biggest news stories in the world of Korean popular music last year came in the form of the solo debut of Kim Taeyeon, leader of popular musical group Girls’ Generation. The wildly popular album, titled "I," attained the status of being number one on the Gaon Album Chart in October 2015. The first and title track, “I”, is appropriately a song about moving past hardship by growing wings and learning to fly. In the Korean music industry, 14 hours of hard practice in high heels on two hours of sleep is quite common. Particularly during the first few years before any real income starts to come in, things can get pretty bleak for the artists. But eight years after her artistic debut, it is safe to say that Taeyeon has managed to work her way past that part of her life and is finally able to live the life she dreamed of; soaring both vocally and in the charts. “I” is performed in collaboration with Verbal Jint, a popular rapper, which gives the otherwise highly acoustic song a nice modern feel. The second track is “UR,” a love song comparing a new-
found romantic partner to “the light that fell on me…like a beautiful dream that makes the world look brighter.” It’s sweet, it’s soft and the overall effect is quite calming and vaguely optimistic. The third track is the first on the album with a Korean title, “ssang-dung-i-ja-ri,” which translates to “Gemini.” It’s a bittersweet song about separating from someone you have grown so close to, you may as well be twins. The song laments, "Even though you’re nearby, I can’t see your heart / Like how the moon quickly blooms when the sun sets, / I hope you’ll return to me as if nothing happened." The song lyrics speak of the good times in the relationship, mourn the loss, and hope for the future. These contrasting emotions are expressed quite well vocally, utilizing Taeyon’s abilities in this R&B track that ranges from low tones to high, and expresses high emotions using flawless vocal tricks that undoubtedly took years to master. The fourth track, “Stress,” is by far my favorite track of the album. It’s fast, it’s catchy and she perfectly captures the frustration of crushing on someone despite your best judgement. “You got me smoking cigarettes, I’m in stress, baby….how did I get pulled in like this?” The final
Courtesy allkpop.com
The Korean pop star Kaeyeon (above) records music videos that are aesthetically pleasing and colorfully artistic.
track on the album,“Farewell,” ends the album on a sad note, saying, "I like the song we listened to together / Roads we used to walk together, it’s true." It’s an easier, melancholy song about resignedly watching a relationship fall away forever but realizing that the only thing you can do is let it go. Earnest and full of a quiet disappointment, "Farewell" is still high-quality despite the lack of vocal showcasing found in “Gemini." The track was perhaps an odd choice to
place as the final original song on the album, as it leaves the listener with a gentle, sad feeling, despite the otherwise optimistic beginning. However, the song is also appropriate, as the entire tracklist follows the arc of typical relationships, many of which end in a bittersweet goodbye. The ending of the album with "Farewell" mirrors the end of a relationship. Taeyeon's optimistic album highlights the joys and pains of relationships. While there are typically highs and lows, the experiences you share
with another person are invaluable. Although there is always the possibility of a painful goodbye at the end of a relationship, Taeyeon never loses hope for a bright future. Overall, this is an excellent album with a bit of everything. It is relatable to anyone who has ever experienced a deep relationship with another person, and it is particularly good for students in college. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for some new, quality music to add to their playlists.
12 Culture
Red & Black
16 S eptember 2016
W&Jaybirds Change Performance Repertoire Kayla Marasia Red&Black Editor
This year, the W&Jaybirds student-run a cappella choir is revolutionizing its performance repertoire. With an all new executive board, new ideas are plentiful. The new President of the group, Kenny Clark ‘18, is excited to take the group in a slightly different direction this year. For fall performances, the W&Jaybirds will bring back the fan favorite “Disney Medley,” which is an original piece arranged by an alumnus of the group, Travis Clark ‘16. The piece will include popular Disney songs like “I Can Go the Distance,” “A Whole New World,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Love is an Open Door.” However, this year the group will attempt to deviate from simple, predictable pop songs, and instead perform classic, energetic hits with a traditional a cappella sound. There will be a special focus on holiday-themed music. For the fall performances, there is hope of singing a spooky Halloween-themed piece, and the Christmas repertoire will consist of fun holiday hits. The new pieces will be challenging for the singers to learn, but the
executive board believes that hard work and a passion for singing will ultimately pay off. Auditions took place on Monday and Tuesday evenings of this week. While the auditions were meant to be low-stress, several of the students who auditioned were nervous. Auditions consisted of sight-reading, range testing, and performing a short snippet of a favorite song. “I auditioned kind of lastminute, so I just sang ‘Gaston’ from Beauty and the Beast,” said new bass Joe Reedy ‘19. “I was a little nervous, but I think it went all right.” Students auditioned with a wide variety of song genres, from pop to musical theatre to Disney. Surprisingly, there were several soulful renditions of Adele songs during auditions. Audition numbers swelled on Monday and Tuesday; as a result of the many talented Presidents who auditioned, there will be 24 members this year, which is double the amount of members of the choir last year. The group is, however, still searching for a beatboxer for performances. 17 of the W&Jaybirds are completely new to the choir, so the influx of new ideas will help the group to achieve its full potential. “I’m really excited about all of the new members this year,” said
Courtesy Kayla Marasia,
Maia Ervin ‘18 auditions for the W&Jaybirds with friend Kenny Clark ‘18. With her soulful, individual voice, Maia will be a great addition to the alto section.
returning member Danny Gavlik ‘19. “We were a small group last year, so it’s awesome that our numbers doubled. I think that all of the new voices are going to blend well and create a cool new sound.” The W&Jaybirds will meet twice per week for rehearsals, and they will perform sporadically throughout the year at choir
concerts, campus events and Monti’s. “I think that the W&Jaybirds is a really unique ensemble,” said president Kenny Clark. “Since we’re a student-run group, we have a lot of flexibility. We can change the sound and direction of the group to make it the best it can be.” The veteran members of the W&Jaybirds will serve
to help the new members become accustomed to singing contemporary a cappella music, as many members have never performed anything similar. Rehearsals start next week, and all of the W&Jaybirds, returning and new, are excited to begin learning new music with a group of people who share the same passions.
16 S eptember 2016
Poetry Corner by Diana Ciarallo Red&Black Staff
“ Glassblower” The magician Dips his wand Into the forge Bending fire to his will Stretching, glowing Fluttering, burning core Pulsating Like a living heart Glass menagerie of stallions Their delicate hooves Pawing at the air Hearts of fire hot with life
“Venetian Square” The little princess With golden ringlets Chases Her feathered playmates Little legs Quickening in their step Beckoning their innocent charge To follow them They flap their wings Trying to teach her to fly Her little arms cannot follow Despite her efforts to try
Culture 13
Red & Black
Book Review: "All the Pretty Horses" Holly Sauer Red&Black Contributor Part adventure and part romance, Cormac McCarthy’s "All the Pretty Horses" is a haunting and harrowing story of three teenage boys taking on the Wild West. At the beginning of the novel, 16-year-old John Grady Cole is one of the last of many generations of Texas ranchers. This news is so devastating to him that he recruits his best friend Rawlins and they leave for Mexico in the dark of night. Along the way Cole offers to help protect a younger boy, Jimmy Blevins, against Rawlins’s wishes. When the trio attempts to retrieve Blevins’s horse, Blevins is separated from the group and the remaining two are forced to find a temporary home at a Mexican ranch. There Cole meets and falls in love with Alejandra, the daughter of now boss. Their relationship then becomes the focal point of the latter half of the narrative. This novel has a brilliant plot, sparkling characters and plenty of suspense. However, it is McCarthy’s writing style that sets it apart from similar works of fiction. His sentence structure and word choice when describing a setting, or even a character, is stunning. While traveling to Mexico, the boys encounter a violent thunderstorm. After it passes, McCarthy describes the countryside: “The sun rose up in the sky and the country took
Courtesy amazon.com
"All the Pretty Horses" (above) won the National Book Award.
on a new color, green fire in the acacia and the paloverde and green in the roadside runoff grass and fire in the ocotillo.” This striking description of a corner of the world after a storm allows the reader to fully visualize what the appearance of the sky and the plants. By interweaving small phrases of Spanish throughout the novel, McCarthy is able to further immerse readers in the complex setting. This book artfully and delicately mentions topics such as God, the sacred nature of a place, death and the struggle
of finding a home. Cole is talking to a proprietor about a wedding that is about to take place outside a café toward the end of the novel when the owner says, “It was good that God kept the truths of life from the young as they were starting out or else they’d have no heart to start at all.” Poignant sentences such as this are spread throughout this narrative and help to make it something special. This book made me think about what it really means to have a home no matter what, or who, it is. Plus it made me want to be a cowboy.
14 Opinions
Red & Black
16 September 2016
opinions From the Desk of the EIC: Welcome Back, Welcome Home On behalf of the entire Red&Black staff, I would like to extend a warm welcome back to our student body, staff and faculty members. The Red&Black staff is excited to share all the important news and information about our campus community with you, the readers, during this academic year. We return to campus in the midst of an unpredictable national election. In a time when our newsfeeds are bombarded with stories regarding this November’s election, the Red&Black turns to its local community and all the good that we are doing both individually and collectively. In this issue, we have underscored Jordan Bechek ‘18 and his creation of a highly successful app and the reigning victory of our women’s soccer team this season. These students encompass what it means to be a president. We enjoy highlighting our readers’ achievements and leadership on-campus and abroad. Therefore, please let us know when you or your campus organization have a story to share. We are eager to work with you and listen to your stories that add to the distinctiveness of our campus community. If you like what you see in this issue, or if you are disappointed that we have not published any security logs, please tell us. Your feedback, comments and constructive criticism as this semester progresses will help us better serve the College and its community. Those interested in contributing to the Red&Black, whether it be through writing articles, taking photos or shooting videos for our online website, are welcome to attend our open meetings every Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the Alex Hall Common Room. Questions, comments or concerns can be addressed to redandblackstaff@jay.washjeff.edu. For everyone, I wish a successful and fun-filled fall semester. Sincerely,
WANT TO WRITE FOR US? FIND OUT HOW AT OUR WEEKLY MEETINGS. WEDNESDAYS 6 P.M., ALEX HALL
Emily Sterk ’17 Editor-in-Chief
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.
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.
C ontac t 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 September 2016
15 Opinions
Red & Black
The YouTube “Improvements“ Cause Issues
Courtesy mashable.com
The iconic YouTube logo that content creators have become fond of over the years.
Catherine McAdoo red&black contributor
For years now, YouTube has been using an algorithm to locate and demonetize videos which violate certain content guidelines. After a video has been flagged as inappropriate, all advertisements are removed, and no revenue is generated for either the content creator or YouTube itself. The goal of advertisements is for viewers to buy the product. If an ad is shown with, say, a video member of ISIS graphically raping and murdering a child, odds are that product isn’t going to
be remembered in a positive light. Therefore, YouTube protects companies by preventing those videos from being monetized. Sounds reasonable enough. However, the YouTube algorithm defines inappropriate content so vaguely it is almost laughable. YouTube’s terms of service define videos as being inappropriate for monetization if they contain: “sexually suggestive content, including partial nudity and sexual humour Violence, including display of serious injury and events related to violent extremism Inappropriate language, including harassment, swearing and vulgar language Promotion of drugs and regulated substances,
including selling, use and abuse of such items.” Violent extremism and drug abuse make sense. Sexual humor and vulgar language do not. 95% of viral videos seen by millions include one or the other. No advertiser in their right mind would want to be “protected” from this potential viewer base, and yet, they are. YouTube needs to either revise their guidelines or allow advertisers the option of ignoring them. Preferably both. Until now, creators had no way of knowing if a video of theirs had been flagged. There was no message, there were no appeals, simply an unusual lack of income with no explanation behind it.
Considering the fact that many mildly successful YouTubers depend on ad revenue for their very livelihood, everyone should be thankful that developers have finally created both notification and appeals processes. I’m sure both will be running quite smoothly once a few months have passed and all the bugs have been worked out. So no, the YouTube party is not “over.” A lot of problems exist, but they are gradually decreasing in number. It is in YouTube’s best interest to allow as many of their videos to be monetized as possible, so one can only hope that they will take the abundant advice around them. A large portion of the
fear and anger has been over the final section of these terms: “Controversial or sensitive subjects and events, including subjects related to war, political conflicts, natural disasters and tragedies, even if graphic imagery is not shown.” Many of the major social media networks, including Facebook and Twitter, have already started using similarly worded policies to opinions of a certain ilk, such as criticism of feminism or Black Lives Matter. YouTube has always run under the spirit of free speech. But people are afraid that this could change. Personally, I think they have a right to be concerned, at least until this vagueness is resolved.
16 opinions
Red & Black
16 S eptember 2016
The W&J “College” Tradition
Courtesy Christopher Frydryck
Old Main basking in a pink summer sunset
Keira Frazier red&black contributor
Washington & Jefferson College: doesn’t the name just roll right off the tongue? It’s a great name for a great school, and the college should maintain its tradition by keeping its moniker. A great name isn’t the only reason that prospective students are attracted to a school like W&J. From a list of 32 official majors, 27 minors and various concentrations, the academic departments are skilled in helping students succeed in
a diverse environment using a liberal arts education. The faculty are able to aid students by forming close relationships with them. Sharon Wanjiku ‘19 described how this appeals to her. She said, “I wanted the small class sizes so that I would be able to get to know my professors better and form good relationships with them.” By learning the individual skills, needs and personalities of students like Wanjiku, professors are able to help the students both during and after their years at the college. This includes writing recommendation letters, aiding in research and even helping
students find jobs through extensive personal networks. When asked what size school she was looking for initially, Olivia Engl ‘19 replied, “I was looking for a small school.” She goes on to recount her experience at an overnight visit to Syracuse University, a much larger school than Washington & Jefferson with approximately 22,000 students. “I was extremely daunted by the fact that [the school] was so big and there were so many people,” she recalls. “I felt I was going to be forgotten.” The issue Engl describes is one that many students who attend larger institutions face,
where instead of being known by name and face, students are recognized only as a number alongside tens of thousands of peers. On W&J’s campus, a student is hard-pressed not to be known by at least five faculty members, including the president of the college herself! When Engl was asked if she still would have chosen to attend W&J if it had been a larger university split into smaller colleges by major, she replied, “I don't think so. I like to surround myself with likeminded people. But, I like being able to communicate with people who are completely different; they give a new per-
spective on the world.” Her insight on a close-knit campus community helps to highlight the benefits of attending a liberal arts college with a diverse student population. By having students of different majors in classes together, W&J allows its students to approach problems from various angles through collaboration. This kind of critical thinking and interdisciplinary approach is crucial in helping solve present-day and future world problems and can only be found at small colleges such as W&J. Dividing the college would ruin this unique and important skill-set students develop.
17 opinions
Red & Black
The Secret Behind Room Damages Christopher Frydryck red&black editor Every Washington & Jefferson student’s summer typically consists of a few things: a Magellan Project, a summer job and a bill from the school. While a Magellan may be fun and jobs are typical for most college students, there tends to be one outlier that strikes each student. The bill from the school typically consists of standard payments and federal aid grants. While many may skim over it and pay the fees due, students may not be familiar with the “room damages” granted from the Residence Life office. Let’s break it down for freshman and anyone else that may not be familiar with this payment. The school charges each student equally for one person’s wrongdoing. It is typically $20-$60, but in some extreme cases can reach over $100+ dollars. If someone pulls the fire alarm, you are paying for the fire department to show up and leave without combatting any fire. This also is the case for damages to the walls in the common rooms, furniture and other objects owned by the school. In the words of Kayla Marasia ‘19, “Damage costs incurred by a few reckless students should never affect those who are innocent in such a drastic way.” I was informed by a resident of
Courtesy Christopher Frydryck
The exact hall all Harrison residents had paid $38.10 for with damages still present.
Harrison Hall last semester that they were charged the same amount as I was for undisclosed damages: $38.10. Upon asking Residence Life why we were charged, their response was, "There was damage done to the walls, from what looked like a dart board, furniture, and the bulletin board on the ground floor.” Let me clarify, the dart board damage was pinholes in the walls, the bulletin board was standard wear and tear of a corkboard, and I was not aware of damages to furniture. Now before you believe this is justifiable, let’s calculate the amount to fix these minor damages in Harrison Hall. If there were (conservatively) 30 students living in this hall, and they were all equally charged $38.10, this comes to a total of $1,143. This outlandish number is by far ridiculous,
and too much to fix what can be done by a novice handyman in a few hours. While many may complain that the school has to charge students something to fix these issues, most companies, organizations and non-profits have a contingency plan. Essentially, it is a lump sum of money that sits around until needed for unexpected costs. This would include damages to the common rooms. If W&J does not expect damages in the common rooms or maintain normal upkeep, they have foolish accountants. But something makes me think this isn’t foolish accounting; in fact, I think it is the exact opposite. If the school could easily make $1,000 from each residential building on campus, that would be quite cunning on their end.
16 S eptember 2016
Pittsburgh: Next Big Tech Hub get, since it is smaller than San Francisco and Los Angeles. Would people be willing to travel around an hour to Driving down around Oak- get to the city if they cannot land, where the Pitt and CMU find homes near the city? The campus are located, you might other question is: Can Pittssee cars running down the burgh handle a huge influx of street with what looks to be people? Are the roads good satellites on top of them. It enough to travel long distancmight look strange but this es? This would also create jobs is part of the tech future. The not just in the tech fields but cars are part of Uber and in other areas of Pittsburgh CMU’s new self-driving cars. economy. Senior Computer The technology uses satel- Science major Samantha Shaw lites to direct said that she the vehicle really had and utilizes Some of the areas no idea that CMU robotmajor that these companies these ics technolc o mp a n i e s ogy. Mean- are moving into were movwhile Disney ing to Pittsis setting up are helping areas burgh, and offices in in Pittsburgh such that it’s a Pittsburgh good way for in the hopes as Braddock and the city to of expand- Homestead, which grow. Some ing their of the areas c o m p u t e r were almost ghost that these graphics c o mp a n i e s towns after the steel are moving k n ow l e d g e to create betinto are helpmills moved out. ter animated ing repopumovies in late areas in the future. Other big names Pittsburgh, such as Braddock which occupy buildings in and Homestead, which were Pittsburgh include Google almost ghost towns after the and Facebook. steel mills moved out of the With all of these major area in the early 1980s. Since companies moving to Pitts- the “tech boom” in Pittsburgh, burgh wanting to utilize world more people have moved into class tech colleges such as the area, and the city’s workCMU and Pitt, one might ask: ing class is becoming youngIs Pittsburgh becoming a tech er. As a CIS major at W&J I hub like California, which like to see that there are a lot is often referred to as Silicon of tech jobs in the city. This Valley? Senior business ma- means that I will not have to jor Laura Barone said that travel far to find a job after idea would depend on how college. populated Pittsburgh would Sarah Peterson red&black contributor
18 Sports
Red & Black
16 S eptember 2016
Student Athlete Spotlight: Victoria Metz Alex York Red&Black Contributor With the arrival of a new academic year comes the arrival of new talent in the realm of collegiate sports. Among these additions is freshman Victoria Metz of Plum Borough, PA. Metz is a prospective education/ Spanish major and a recent newcomer to the Washington & Jefferson’s women’s swimming team. Metz’s history with aquatics dates back to her younger years. “My parents didn’t know how to swim too well,” she said, “and they decided when I was very little that I was going to take parent-taught swim lessons.” Following her introduction to swimming, Metz enrolled in
private lessons and ultimately joined her first team at the age of 4. Over the years, Metz continued to cultivate her involvement in athletics, which lead to developments in other areas of her life. Her experience teaching swim lessons to younger students, for instance, initially sparked her interest in the educational field. Throughout her high school career, Metz was a member of the Plum High School swimming team. During her time with the team, she participated in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) championships for 4 consecutive years, taking part in both relays and individual events. Her qualifying swim for her first WPIAL remains one of Metz’s personal
highlights – “It was at one of the meets at the end of the season and it was my last chance to make it, so it was really exciting to accomplish something like that,” she explained. For Metz, however, swimming is not so much about glory as it is selfimprovement. “I would say I’m probably more of a practice swimmer,” she said. “I just really like working hard and the feeling that you get from it.” Metz has devoted her time at W&J to besting her own times, which, she admits, plateaued somewhat following junior high. Her personal record for her best event, the 100m butterfly, currently stands at 1:03. Along with providing the opportunity to
Courtesy Alex York
Victoria Metz is a newcomer to the W&J Swimming Team.
refine her athletic prowess, Metz hopes above all that her participation on the swim team will demonstrate to others her ability to balance academics and athletics, the commitment she puts into her work and the qualities
that continually drive her to succeed. “I don’t like to give up, even when it gets difficult,” Metz said. “I like to push through.” The swim team’s first meet will take place on Oct. 29 at Frostburg State University in Frostburg, MD.
Vogel Leads Team at Fall Invitational Erin Haughey Red&Black Contributor
Kaitlyn Vogel, a junior from New Castle, PA, shot an 18over 90 to lead the Washington & Jefferson women’s golf team to a second place finish at the Westminster Fall Invitational at New Castle Country Club on Sept. 3. Vogel placed fourth as an individual, while Michelle Klein '18, from Georgetown, PA, shot a 97 and tied for tenth, Maeve Palmieri '17, from Pittsburgh, PA, shot a 99 and tied for thirteenth and Alexandra Jakubow '20, from
Massillon, Ohio, shot a 100 and finished in sixteenth place out of thirty-nine golfers The Presidents' total team score of 386 beat Seton Hill’s 388 to take second place. They came up shy of four strokes behind Point Park University, who took first. Vogel said, “As a team I thought we played rather well for our first tournament." It was a very tight tournament in which three to four shots separated first from third. New Castle Country Club is a tough course to begin with, and the conditions last Saturday made it even
more challenging. It was hot and dry, so the fairways and greens were fast. Point Park, Westminster, Clarion and a few other PAC teams competed. Vogel said, "Even though I finished fourth with 90, I know I did not play my best. I could drive, chip and putt, but my irons were missing.” Based on the results of the invitational, Vogel believes the Presidents will pose great competition. She said, “I think we stand a good chance at PAC’s this year. If we consistently practice with a purpose and
Courtesy Erin Haughey
Vogel, shown above, recently took second place at Westminster Fall Invitational.
go lower with each round, we should do well. I’m hoping to go back to nationals for a third straight year but we will have to wait and see. All I know is it’s going to be a close race for first with us and the rest of the
conference.” The women's golf team will participate in the Allegheny Invitational Sept. 25, 2016. Visit gopresidents.com for further scheduling details.
16 S eptember 2016
19 sports
Red & Black
Women’s Soccer Continues Successes
Courtesy Jordan Toohey
The women’s soccer team is looking forward to this upcoming season since day one of preseason (left). The junior class is ready to continue making history (right).
Abby Peace Red&Black Contributor
After coming off of a 9-8-2 record in 2014, Washington & Jefferson’s women’s soccer team upped their play in 2015 and finished 14-2-2. With the help of new additions, the team doubled their goal total, outscoring opponents 68-13 in the season and 40-7 in conference play. Where some teams may have struggled to play two consistent halves, the Presi-
dents actually scored more goals in the second half than in the first, proving their resilience and tough mentality. Jordan Toohey, a junior on the team, said, “We definitely proved to ourselves and the rest of the teams we played last year that we were a different team. We proved to them that we had something to fight for; we weren’t going down easily!” The Presidents have started their 2016 campaign right where they left off last season, outscoring opponents 11-2 through three games. Last year’s top scorers, Jordan
Toohey, Tatiana Ruzzini and Ashton Grimm, all return for their junior year and are already making an impact. Along with the help of a strong midfield and quick forwards, the goals are pouring in. Toohey leads the team with five goals, and sophomore Sam Fields has added two. Senior Mariah Lockard has two assists, while junior Josie Madden and sophomore Nicole Walters each have four shots on goal and a goal apiece. Sophomore Brianna Floryshak has added two shots on goal and an assist. Freshman
Chandler Marteeny also has an assist and has earned the first PAC Rookie of the Week award. Allison Rinehimer starts between the pipes and has stopped fourteen out of sixteen shots. Leading the defense in front of her are seniors Aundrea Snyder and Katie McClelland. Another freshman, Courtney Finney, has shown her versatility on the field, playing both offense and defense for the team. The Presidents dominated in PAC play last year with five shutouts; they even led by a
margin of nine goals in one game. PAC conference games begin Oct. 8 at 3 p.m. on homecoming weekend against Geneva. Other home matchups include Bethany on Oct. 15 at 1 p.m. and Thiel on Oct. 18 at 7 p.m. Toohey is looking forward to the upcoming games. She said, “This season we look to improve on the great season we had last year. We continue to play at a high level; we want to make it further this year than we did last year.” Obviously, the team is on track to do just that.
20 sports
Red & Black
16 S eptember 2015
Comments backfire on Solo Balancing a Sport and Staying on Top of Classes Erin Haughey Red&Black Contributor
After the U.S. women’s soccer team lost 2-1 to Sweden in the second round of the 2016 Rio Olympics, goalkeeper Hope Solo called her opponents “a bunch of cowards.” Solo said, “Sweden dropped off. They didn’t want to open play. They didn’t want to pass the ball. They didn’t want to play great soccer.” These remarks forced the U.S. Soccer Federation to give Solo a six-month suspension and terminate her contract. Solo believes this punishment is retaliation for her stance on equal pay for men and women’s soccer. "They're going to use my comments as an excuse to get rid of me forever so that they don't have to deal with such a strong voice and opposition to field conditions and playing conditions and pay,” she said. “I think I'm just a thorn in their side, and it's time for them to cut their losses." Solo was suspended Aug. 24 for what U.S. Soccer called "conduct that is counter to the organization's principles." U.S. Soccer said the suspension also took into consideration "past incidents" involving Solo. Since it hasn’t been the first time she has done something to harm her reputation or the U.S. Soccer Federations’,
the decision was more strict. This hasn’t been the only incident that Hope Solo has caused with the U.S. Soccer Federation. These past incidents included other harsh comments about games and her arrest with domestic violence charges that she faced a couple of years ago. Megan Rapinoe, a midfielder for the U.S. team, said, “As a member of the team and of the CBA group and of the PA [players' association], I'm pretty unhappy with a sort of arbitrary six-month suspension for calling someone a coward. I think that there's probably some legal strategy going on with it all.” Five members of the U.S. women's national soccer team, including Hope Solo, Carli Lloyd and Alex Morgan, have filed a wage-discrimination action against the U.S. Soccer Federation with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The filing said the women's team was being paid about a quarter of what the men earn, despite generating nearly $20 million more revenue last year. Solo said, “The numbers speak for themselves. We are the best in the world, have three World Cup championships [and] four Olympic championships.” Solo said that the men’s players “get paid more to just show up than we get paid to win major championships.” The income inequality is blatantly obvious.
Tiffany Ditrich Red&Black Editor
It is no secret that Washington & Jefferson College courses are very challenging, and the world load is heavy and intense. At times, juggling four or five classes and trying to maintain a social life is seemingly impossible. Therefore, how do W&J athletes evenly dedicate their time to playing sports and doing well in class? During an interview with junior softball player Jamie
Smith (’18), she gives insight to this question. Smith has played softball ever since she was eight years old. She chose to come to W&J to play because she loved the school itself, and the team was inviting and friendly when she had her overnight stay. Smith declared her major in psychology and a minor in Spanish; she plans to attend graduate school after W&J to receive her masters in psychology and get a job with the government in immigration services. A bright future is ahead of Jamie; when she is not studying hard to get there, she is training and practicing with her softball team.
Courtesy gopresidents.com
Smith balances sports and school.
How much time do you spend working out, training and practicing for softball? “We spend three weeks practicing in the fall, and then we have an off season lifting three times a week for about an hour through December. In season, we practice almost every day for up to two hours.” What is your position on the field? Do certain positions take more practice than others? “I am a third baseman and outfielder. I believe being a pitcher requires a little more work than other positions since they have to practice after the scheduled practice is already over.” Does your team travel? If so, what is the most rewarding about traveling? What is the most problematic? “Yes, our team travels. The best thing about it is that we have time to bond as a team and get to know one another a little better. The worst part is how much time it takes away from doing homework or studying since it is almost impossible to study on a bus.” As an athlete you have to eat healthy. How do you balance a healthy diet living off of W&J’s meal plan? “I usually try to have something from each food group when I’m in the commons for dinner, and I also pay attention to what I’ve eaten that day already. If I’ve had a sandwich for lunch, I won’t have as many carbs for dinner. I also always make sure I have some fruit and a salad every day. It’s just about quality of food you’re eating and just making healthier decisions.” Classes at W&J can be challenging, how do you balance studying for your classes to do well while dedicating time to softball? “I study a little bit each night for exams so I can avoid cramming on game days. I also do assignments the day they are assigned so that I never put myself into a hold of procrastination.”