SRU "Gamer Girls" Gamer's Guild elects first female president Carrie Mae Hanrahan talks about gamer discrimination, and why you should keep an open mind. Pages D-1
Friday February 6, 2015 • Volume 98, Issue Number 14 • An Independent, Student-Run Newspaper
the rocket
www.theonlinerocket.com
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
SRU McDonald's participates in 'Paying with Lovin' Campaign
NEWS
Update Plan On The Horizon Campus Update Plan will restore several buildings and roads at Slippery Rock University. Page A-3
OPINION
Katy Perry Show Ups and Downs Katy Perry set the bar for the Superbowl XLIX halftime show a little too high and did not live up to expectations. Page B-2
SPORTS
Women's Soccer Star Honored Rock senior Nicole Krueger was named to the PSAC Fall Top 10 in Academic and on-field excellence. Page C-3
CAMPUS LIFE
SRU Winter Guard Wins Competition The Winter Guard competes and wins Three Rivers Winter Ensemble Association contest, and moves to regionals. Page D-2
Rock Women Beat Mercyhurst The Rock defeated Mercyhurst 70-63 Wednesday night for the ninth win of the year. Page C-1
HALEY BARNES/THE ROCKET
SRU graduate student Keshia Booker went to McDonald's Thursday afternoon. After she ordered her food, she got asked to 'pay with lovin' by doing a happy dance. '
By Bridget McClure Rocket Contributor
The SRU McDonalds on South Main Street is participating in the “Paying with Lovin’” campaign that aired during Super Bowl XLIX on Sunday. B eginning Feb. 2 through Valentine’s Day as part of a promotional offer, McDonald's
has been letting people pay for their meals with “lovin.’” They will be giving free value meals to customers during predetermined time slots if the customer agrees to perform an act of lovin.’ Winners do not necessarily have to be paying customers, the first person to walk through the door during the time slot is deemed a winner when the show some love. Brian Dickens has been the
manager at the SRU McDonald's for seven months. Dickens said on the first day 20 acts were performed and 17 on the second. The lovin’ acts remain pretty consistent between 15 to 20 per day. Fist pumps, high fives, and calling someone to tell them you love them are examples of acts SEE SRU, PAGE A-2
SRU professor claims weather policy is unsafe By Haley Barnes News Editor
Slippery Rock students received emails and text messages on Monday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. announcing that Monday evening classes starting at 5:00 p.m. were cancelled. According to the SRU Severe Weather Policy, “It is the policy of Slippery Rock University that only the President or his/her designee has the authority to temporarily modify class and/or work schedules in the event of extreme weather conditions including, but not limited to snow, freezing rain, floods and hazardous winds. This decision may include the temporary cancellation of all or part of scheduled academic programs.” Itzi Metzli, assistant professor of Chicano/Latino literature and criticism and Associate of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF) representative, was very upset that the university did not cancel classes on Monday. Metzli said Slippery Rock Middle and High School, which is located across Keister Road, had school
cancel. “We had what they call a flash freeze, where everything was covered with ice, sidewalks, roadways, very dangerous,” Metzli said. “The reason I’m angry, I myself, my car got stuck in ice and I live close by, so I had to walk to campus to get to work because classes had not been cancelled and then I had to maneuver all the icy sidewalks, but I did get to class without falling.” SRU Public Relations Director Rita Abent said morning classes were not cancelled on Monday morning because the facilities were able to keep up with the campus roads and sidewalks. Abent said the University is not responsible for taking care of sidewalks and roads off the university’s campus. She said the police said Monday morning was okay. Metzli said he got a text message around 1:00 p.m. saying that evening classes were canceled and that made him very upset. He believes that the University put staff and students at risk by not cancelling classes Monday morning. SEE APSCUF PAGE A-2
NEWS
A-2 7-DAY FORECAST FOR SLIPPERY ROCK FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Turning cloudy
Cloudy and not as cold
Showers of rain and snow
Colder with a little snow
Low clouds and cold
Snow in the morning
Morning snow, then flurries
25°
19°
41°
32°
40°
REAL FEAL TEMPERATURE
Fri.
Sat.
Sun. Mon.
Tue.
Wed. Thu.
Fri.
CITY Akron Allentown Altoona Cleveland Erie Harrisburg Indiana Johnstown Philadelphia Pittsburgh Scranton State College Wheeling Williamsport Youngstown
Friday HI LO W 28 22 pc 24 13 pc 28 22 pc 27 23 pc 24 21 sf 31 20 pc 26 19 pc 23 20 pc 33 25 pc 28 23 pc 22 15 pc 25 21 pc 29 24 pc 27 16 pc 26 20 pc
Saturday HI LO W 45 36 c 41 28 c 45 34 pc 41 33 c 34 27 c 46 30 pc 43 34 c 41 33 pc 46 34 c 41 35 pc 33 28 sn 42 33 c 44 36 pc 35 28 c 41 35 c
29°
12°
15°
24°
Sat.
Sun
Sun. Mon.
Tue.
Wed. Thu.
The higher the AccuWeather.com UV Index number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection. 0-2 Low; 3-5 Moderate; 6-7 High; 8-10 Very High; 11+ Extreme.
Sunday HI LO W 42 27 sn 34 28 sn 41 37 sn 40 20 sn 33 21 sn 41 38 sn 42 39 sn 41 36 sn 42 32 sn 44 34 r 34 29 sn 39 34 sn 45 37 r 38 35 sn 41 27 sn
Monday HI LO W 28 15 c 31 20 sn 37 26 sn 23 12 c 24 12 sn 40 32 sn 40 20 sn 37 18 sn 35 27 sn 34 16 sn 31 27 sn 35 23 sn 38 20 sn 38 25 sn 28 12 sn
Tuesday HI LO W 25 14 c 33 18 sn 28 14 sn 23 11 pc 20 9 c 35 15 sn 26 11 c 24 14 c 37 17 sn 28 18 c 29 8 sn 30 11 sn 31 20 pc 31 11 sn 23 9 c
31°
19°
NATIONAL FORECAST FOR THE WEEK TEMPERATURES
6°
22°
Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal
IN THE SKY
™
The patented AccuWeather.com RealFeel Temperature is an exclusive index of effective temperature based on eight weather factors. Shown are the highest and lowest values for each day.
REGIONAL CITIES
26°
UV INDEX
®
February 6, 2015
Wednesday HI LO W 34 19 i 32 18 s 33 23 pc 31 16 sn 27 16 sn 35 23 pc 33 22 c 30 21 pc 35 25 s 36 24 sn 30 19 s 31 20 pc 37 24 sn 31 20 pc 31 19 sn
Thursday HI LO W 21 7 sn 36 19 sf 29 8 c 17 4 sn 17 3 sn 34 10 sf 27 7 sn 23 6 sn 38 15 c 25 9 sn 28 3 sf 26 7 c 25 11 sf 29 5 sf 20 5 sn
Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
Moon
Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
Rise 7:26 a.m. 7:25 a.m. 7:24 a.m. 7:23 a.m. 7:22 a.m. 7:20 a.m. 7:19 a.m. Rise 8:34 p.m. 9:30 p.m. 10:26 p.m. 11:24 p.m. none 12:22 a.m. 1:21 a.m.
MOON PHASES New
First
Full
2/11
2/18
2/25
3/5
Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal
National Summary: Snow showers will impact the Northeast and the upper Great Lakes Saturday. Some sleet may mix in from southern Michigan to central Minnesota. Rain will continue across the West with the exception of the Desert Southwest. On Sunday, snow will fall across the Northeast and the upper Great Lakes with a wintry mix from northern Illinois to central New Jersey. Rain will fall from the Ohio valley to the Gulf Coast. Rain will continue across the West Coast. By Monday, snow will continue across the Northeast with rain from the mid-Atlantic coast to the Southeast. Rain will continue across the West with dry conditions across the Central states. Mild air will continue through Monday across the West.
Set 5:43 p.m. 5:44 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:47 p.m. 5:48 p.m. 5:49 p.m. 5:50 p.m. Set 8:31 a.m. 8:59 a.m. 9:28 a.m. 9:58 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 11:05 a.m. 11:46 a.m.
Last
PRECIPITATION
NATIONAL CITIES
Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday CITY HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W Atlanta 53 33 s 61 43 s 67 54 pc 61 36 c 56 34 s 60 39 s 58 31 pc Boston 20 15 pc 29 20 sn 28 27 sn 30 24 sn 30 13 sn 25 16 s 26 4 sn Chicago 30 21 c 37 33 c 38 23 r 28 17 pc 28 24 pc 34 12 c 19 10 s Cincinnati 38 30 pc 54 42 pc 56 32 r 39 23 pc 39 26 s 46 26 r 35 19 c Dallas 62 43 s 73 53 s 76 48 s 75 45 s 73 50 s 67 41 c 56 37 pc Denver 70 43 pc 72 40 pc 64 34 s 63 36 s 61 31 pc 46 28 pc 58 35 pc Detroit 27 23 c 35 30 c 35 18 sn 24 8 pc 23 13 pc 29 11 sn 16 1 c Houston 62 45 pc 72 54 pc 77 54 s 78 49 s 73 49 s 73 49 s 70 42 r Indianapolis 37 29 pc 50 39 c 52 27 sh 33 21 pc 36 26 s 42 20 i 29 16 pc Kansas City 55 33 s 66 41 s 59 29 s 49 28 s 55 37 s 45 21 pc 38 23 s Los Angeles 72 56 pc 70 59 sh 74 59 pc 73 53 c 72 54 s 74 54 s 78 58 s Miami 73 61 pc 73 63 s 75 60 pc 79 59 s 74 56 s 73 60 pc 75 60 pc Nashville 53 33 s 65 49 pc 63 46 sh 50 30 pc 50 30 s 57 31 s 46 25 pc New Orleans 58 41 s 68 52 s 73 55 pc 72 47 s 65 44 s 67 47 s 66 43 pc New York City 24 21 pc 38 31 c 34 26 sn 29 25 sn 34 14 sn 31 23 s 35 14 sn Orlando 67 45 s 72 49 s 74 51 s 74 50 s 66 45 s 70 47 pc 73 48 pc Phoenix 82 54 s 81 55 pc 81 56 s 83 56 s 80 54 s 77 55 pc 76 53 pc San Francisco 64 59 r 66 57 r 64 54 r 61 49 sh 61 46 s 64 49 s 66 50 pc Seattle 56 48 r 53 45 r 56 48 r 54 46 r 54 40 c 55 44 pc 57 47 c Washington, DC 41 30 s 52 38 pc 54 41 r 50 35 c 44 29 r 47 36 s 48 22 pc Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.
Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2015
SGA agrees to raise activity fee budgets P
Catch something exciting happening on campus? Want your Insta-photos to be featured in The Rocket? Just follow @SRURocket on Instagram and use # in the caption for your chance to be featured here every week!
By Haley Barnes News Editor
The Slippery Rock Student Government Association voted on three options and passed the motion to increase base student activity fee budgets for student clubs and organizations on Tuesday evening. Option one was have a five percent increase for all clubs and organizations that are eligible for funding, option two was a seven percent increase for all clubs and organizations that are eligible for funding, and option three was a tiered increase based off of the club or organization's current budget. Tier one was a 10 percent increase for clubs and organizations whose budgets are under $1,000, tier two was a seven percent increase for clubs and organizations whose budgets are over $1,000, but under $2,500, and tier three was a five percent increase for clubs and organizations whose budgets are over $2,500. SGA Vice President of Finance Baylee Childress expressed her preference of option three over the other two. "I think that since there hasn't been increases in the past few years, that it's only fair that we kind of give the upper hand to some of the clubs that haven't been able to increase their budget and have been around and worked really hard," Childress said.
"It might not seem like a huge increase or huge difference, but it does really make a difference, you know, even an extra 10 bucks for some of these smaller clubs and it doesn't make as much as a difference for the organizations that already have huge budgets and they are still getting an increase anyway, some groups like UPB and other groups like these that have these huge budgets kind of have already budgeted throughout the year, so it's not as important that they get a giant increase. So they'll still get money increase, but I think I am just really in favor in helping out some of these smaller organizations." The group unanimously voted on option three. SGA also voted on and passed the motion to recognize the Pre-Physician's Assistant Club as a club. "They had to wait a really long time to get approved, so I commend them for being so patient," Childress said. North Hall Senator, Logan Steigerwalt was sworn in as Speaker of the Senate. Emily Murasso was switched from Building A to Rhoades Hall Senator, Sophia Sarver from Building F to Building A Senator, and Jaclynn Choma from Rhoades Hall to North Hall Senator. The meeting was adjourned at 9:28 p.m. The next SGA meeting will take place on Feb. 16 in at 8:45 pm in the theater of the Robert M. Smith Student Center.
SRU student does 'happy dance' for food Continued from Page A-1
INDEX Blotter.................A-3 Sports......................C-1 Opinion................B-1 Campus Life .............D-1 Comics...................B-3
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“We have to be sensitive to the customer,” Dickens said. “If an elderly couple comes up and orders lunch, I’m not going to have them take a selfie.” Graduate student Keshia Booker, clinical mental health and couns eling major was one person who was asked to participate in the 'Paying with Lovin' campaign. After Booker ordered her food, she was asked to do a happy dance in exchange for her money. Booker expressed that this took her by suprise. "I feel very happy," Booker said. "I think it's cool. I was very surprised that I got my food for free."
When asked how long us apart from other people she has been an employee or other restaurants in the at McD onald's, Nanc y area,” Dickens said. Gilson said all she can say is forever. Gilson thinks the campaign is beneficial because it makes them customer friendly. “Customers are usually surprised and they enjoy doing something silly,” Gilson said. “My favorite thing to make customers do is a happy dance.” Dickens said he loves the campaign because the thing that separates McDonald's from other places is one on one contact with customers. “I think the campaign is Scan this QR code to definitely where we have to see a video of Booker doing grab the customer for their her 'happy dance'. hospitality and form that relationship that will set
APSCUF meeting will discuss current weather policy Continued from Page A-1
Metzli said he asked the APSCUF president to present on this issue at the next APSCUF General Membership m e e t i ng , w h i ch w i l l b e Thursday Feb. 14 at common hour in Spotts Auditorium. He advises all staff and students who would like to express their concern to come. “My concerns are not only for the students, but for the faculty, the ones that have to
drive in,” Metzli said. “When you wait to cancel the evening classes, you have to know a lot of the instructors are already on campus.” Abent said the weather on Monday progressively got worse as the sun went down. She said that all the salt on the sidewalks was melting the snow, but the temperature was causing the melted snow to just refreeze and the maintenance crew could not keep up with all the black ice. “Our number one concern is
always the safety of the students, staff, faculty, and visitors on this campus,” Abent said. Abent said it was more ideal to cancel the evening classes because they only meet once a week, where the absence count is stricter. She said if a student with a night class cannot make it due to weather conditions, that makes it harder for the student to get the work they missed. “We take cancelling classes very seriously,” Abent said.
NEWS
February 6, 2015
A-3
POLICE BLOTTER Campus
Feb. 1 – Police stopped a car which was after police were about an intoxication male suspected to be involved with a theft at walking around Watson Hall. Jan. 29 – An employee accidently set of an the Founders Low Lot. The case is under intruder alarm at the Robert M. Smith Student investigation. Center. The alarm was reset. Feb. 2 – There was a call for a drug violation at Building D. Police checked the area, but Feb. 1 – An individual set off a fire alarm nothing was found. Jan. 29 – Police responded to a car accident with an “E-Cigarette” at Building F. The alarm along East Lake Lane. One of the vehicles was reset. sustained minor damages. No one was injured. Feb. 2 – Police responded to a drug violation at Building B. The case is under investigation. Feb. 1 – Police stopped a vehicle for a stop Jan. 29 – Natalie Werner, 18, was issued a sign violation along Harmony Road. A citation drug violation at Building F. was issued to the driver. Feb. 2 – A metis alarm was accidently set off at the Advanced Technology and Science Hall. The alarm was reset. Jan. 30 – Police were called to meet an Feb. 1 – There was a reported theft of a laptop individual for information about a possible at Building B. The case is under investigation. hit-and-run at the Aebersold Recreation Center. Feb. 3 – Police were called for a person smoking marijuana in the smoke shack in the Feb. 1 – Police were called for a domestic Quad. When an officer arrived, no one was in dispute in the lobby of Building D. One person the area. Jan. 30 – Police were called for a person who left and the other refused to answer their door. was having trouble breathing at Patterson Hall. The individual refused an ambulance. A friend drove the individual to the hospital. Feb. 3 – A work order was placed to check Feb. 1 – Sean McLaughlin, 19, was issued an on a fire alarm at Building A after the alarm alcohol violation at Building B. went off for an unknown reason. Jan. 31 – Police received a call for a person sleeping at a bus stop along Campus Drive. Police checked the area and no one was around.
Jan. 31 – A hair straightener set off a fire alarm at Watson Hall. The alarm was reset.
Feb. 2 – Zachary Stephenson, 18, was issued Feb. 3 – Police were called to meet a professor an alcohol violation at Rhodes Hall. about a student making threats towards them. The case is under investigation. Feb. 2 – Borough police requested assistance on Main Street.
Jan. 31 – Police were called to do a welfare check on an individual. The student was found Feb. 2 – Roberto Gibson, 19, was issued an and was fine. alcohol violation. Jan. 31 – A metis alarm was accidently tripped at Swope. The alarm was reset.
Feb. 4 – A report was taken of an individual who said she tried to stop her car at the Lower Stadium Lot, but the lot was a sheet of ice and her car slid into another car.
Feb. 2 – Adrian Rivera, 19, was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest Compiled by Amber Cannon
Campus master update plan intends to renovate SRU buildings Faculty and staff update plan for the first time since 2007 By Amber Cannon Assistant News Editor
The last time the campus master plan was updated was in 2007, hitting the eight year mark for the university to update the plan again. Dr. Amir Mohammadi, SRU vice president for finance and administration and chair of the master update plan said before the update gets published and is ready for viewing, it first has to go through a preliminary phase where the plan will be reviewed by a committee, which includes several faculty members, including Mohammadi. “It’s on the horizon, it’s a very short process,” Mohammadi said. The master plan committee
considers things such as the renovation of buildings, cautious roads, sustainability, the food service and how students can achieve academic success when planning the update. According to the 2007 master plan, several buildings were planned to go under renovation and several classrooms were planned to be relocated. The master plan said East and West gym is prepared to go under construction for a new dance studio and the majority of exercise and rehabilitative sciences were set to relocate. The Eisenberg Building was set to add storage and a television studio for the communication department as well as add five faculty offices and storage for the business depar tment. B aile y Librar y
ROCK NOTES To submit a Rock Note please send your announcement by 6 p.m. Wednesday to Haley Barnes at hmb1006@sru.edu or to rocket. news@sru.edu. The Rocket does not guarantee that all requests will be published in the paper.
was also prepared to relocate academic services and services for students with disablities to the old univeristy union. Also included in the 2007 master plan was the proposed construction of the Robert M. Smith Student Center, which opened in 2012. The 2007 plan also looked at and assessed several vehicular arrival and drop-off areas as well as parking areas, service and emergency access landed and the plan also assessed adding more available space for the police parking lot and other parking facilities. Mohammadi said although the master update plan committee will look at new material, the committee looks closely at the previous master plan to see what still needs to be done and what
"Moving.On.Impulse" SRU Dance Theatre presents “Moving.On. Impulse," an original showcase of SRU student choreographers and performers, including a ten minute dance film shot in Butler County and made for SRU dance majors by guest artist Marta Renzi. Show times are 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015, and take place at The Succop Theater on the campus of Butler County Community College. Tickets are $8 for students, children and seniors and $12 for the general public. Tickets can be purchased at the Smith Student Center Information Desk or by calling 724-738-4926.
stands out, which they will again add into the new update plan. Once the committee agrees on what to add to the plan, Mohammadi said the committee gathers and presents their ideas to President Cheryl J. Norton. According to the previous master plan update, the total assignable square feet needed for the update was approximately 754,397 square feet. Mohammadi said since the update plan is only in the preliminary stage, it’s hard to tell how much space and money will be needed to complete the update. Once the plan gets past the preliminary stage, the cost and the space needed will be much clearer. The updated master plan will be available this year.
Rally to Raise Minimum Wage The Raise the Wage PA 2015 Kickoff event has been rescheduled for Monday, Feb. 9 at noon. It will be held at the Historic Grace United Methodist Church at 216 State Street in Harrisburg. Special "Sex & Love" Issue Check out The Rocket's special "Sex & Love" issue on Feb. 13 covering a wide array of topics. Weekly Planetarium Shows Vincent Science Center offers a different show every week. Admission is free and the show starts at 8 p.m.
O
OPINION
Our View
We’ll pay with money, thanks McDonald’s campaign seems cute on paper only
OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 98, Number 14
220 Eisenberg Classroom Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania 16057 Phone: Fax: E-mail:
(724) 738-4438 (724) 738-4896 rocket.letters@sru.edu
EDITORIAL BOARD Kevin Squires
Editor-in-Chief
Haley Barnes
News Editor
Katie Ellis
Campus Life Editor
Brian Hepfinger
Sports Editor
Alex Mowrey
Photo Editor
Andrew Conner Shelby Stearns
Copy Editor
Amber Cannon
Assistant News Editor
Janelle Wilson
Assist. Campus Life Editor
Ryan Barlow
Assistant Sports Editor
Rebecca Dietrich
Assistant Photo Editor
Emily Brown
Multimedia Reporter
Mark Zeltner
Faculty Adviser
ADVERTISING STAFF Karleigh Santry
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET
Web/Social Media Editor
Advertising Manager
ABOUT US The Rocket is published by the students of Slippery Rock University every Friday during the academic semester with the exception of holidays, exam periods and vacations. Total weekly circulation is 3,000. No material appearing in The Rocket may be reprinted without the written consent of the Editor-in-Chief. The first copy of The Rocket is provided free of charge. Additional copies may be purchased for 50 cents each. The Rocket receives approximately 5 percent of its funding from the SGA Student Activity fee paid each semester by students. All other income is provided through the sale of advertising. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling (724) 7382643 or by emailing rocket.ads@sru.edu.
With McDonald’s “Pay with Lovin`” instant win game taking place from Feb. 2 to Feb. 14, The Rocket staff was met with a feelings of awe followed by discomfort. According to the official rules for the game, a “Lovin` Lead” will ask an unofficial winner to “execute a random act of Lovin’ (the “Lovin’ Act”).” L ov i n’ Ac t s w i l l b e designated by the “Lovin’ Lead” and some examples are listed such as fist bumping the Lovin’ Lead, calling a loved one, blowing a kiss. These acts are subject to the Lovin’ Lead’s “reasonable” discretion and must be completed to Lovin’ Lead’s reasonable satisfaction, according to the rules. A lt houg h i n it i a l ly, t he thought of paying for your McDonald’s with a fist bump, an embracing hug or a loving phone call to your mom may seem like any McLover’s dream control (YES! I get to save that 99 cents on my chicken McNuggets!), it can easily get uncomfortable.
Imagine the potentially awkward circumstances that can ensue when you’re looking to get your morning coffee and head to work or class when you’re unexpectedly asked to give a hug to some Lovin` Lead in exchange for your hot beverage. This greasy McDonald’s employee is promising you a drink on the house and all you need to do is show him some love. It’s awkward. No re quest is wit hout possible faults. For instance, a participant being asked to call their mom and tell them they love them may grown up in a foster home or have tension with their mother. This request may seem innocent, but it is making possibly very false assumptions on the dynamics of a parent-child relationship for a game...for a free meal...at McDonald’s. We aren’t the only ones that are uncomfortable with the concept of paying with love. Kate Bachelder wrote about her experience in the Wall Street Journal, depicting a
horror story of conga lines and awkward roof raising. “My f e l l ow c u s t om e r s seemed to look on with pity as I drew my fate: ‘Ask someone to dance.’ I stood there for a mortified second or two, and then the cashier mercifully suggested that we all dance together. Not wanting to be a spoilsport, I forced a smile and ‘raised the roof ’ a couple of times, as employees tried to lure cringing customers into forming some kind of conga line, asking them when they’d last been asked to dance,” Bachelder writes. Her story is one we fear will be all to common in the coming week as McDonald’s promotion continues, a forced gesture of fake enjoyment at a deal that only looks good on paper or in staged advertisements. While we do think it’s great that McDonald’s is trying to make the world a happier, more love-filled place, we are quite satisfied paying with the only tender the business truly cares about, money.
CORRECTIONS If we make a substantial error, we want to correct it. If you believe an error has been made, call The Rocket newsroom at (724) 738-4438. If a correction is warranted it will be printed in the opinion section.
In the Quad
This week’s question: What is your favorite thing about late night Rocky’s?
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions to The Rocket are available. Subscriptions are $20 per academic semester and $35 for the full academic year. Inquiries should be directed to the Editor-in-Chief at the address listed here.
In the Quad is a segment in which random students, faculty and staff are asked for their opinions on a specific topic.
EDITORIAL POLICY The Rocket strives to present a diverse range of opinions that are both fair and accurate in its editorials and columns appearing on the Opinion pages. “Our View” is the opinion of the Editorial Board and is written by Rocket editorial board members. It reflects the majority opinion of The Rocket Editorial Board. “Our View” does not necessarily reflect the views of Slippery Rock University, its employees or its student body. Columns and cartoons are drafted by various individuals and only reflect the opinions of the columnists.
LETTERS POLICY The Rocket welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns, but does not guarantee their publication. The Rocket retains the right to edit or reject any material submitted. Submitted material becomes the property of The Rocket and cannot be returned. Anonymous submissions will not be published. Those who submit letters must identify themselves by name, year in school, major and/or group affiliation, if any. Please limit letters to a maximum of 400 words. Submit all material by noon Wednesday to: The Rocket, 220 ECB, Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pa. 16057. Or send it via e-mail to: rocket.letters@sru.edu.
Michael Zech Junior, Music Education Major Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Dave Felker Junior, Computer Science Major Penn Hills, Pennsylvania
Cayti Neff Freshman, Exercise Science Major Monroeville, Pennsylvania
“My favorite is definitely the mac and cheese bites. They’re good and they’re right here so at the end of the day I can just come up and grab them.”
“I like the chicken fingers. They need more chicken fingers on this campus.”
“When we’re up late at night studying, it’s nice to just come to late night Rocky’s to get a snack. I always like to come here to just get a small snack, not really a meal. ”
What’s your favorite thing about late night Rocky’s? Tweet us @SRURocket with #SRUOpinion to let us know!
OPINION
B-2
February 6, 2015
QUESTION OF
THE WEEK @SRURocket
Didn’t get the chance to reply? Keep the conversation going with #SRUOpinion on Twitter. Be looking for next week’s question this Monday.
‘50 Shades of Grey’ abuse depicts BDSM inaccurately
Alexa Merbler Commentary Alexa Merbler is a sophomore English literary, film and cultural studies major from Milford, Pennsylvania. With the upcoming release of the movie adaptation of “50 Shades of Grey,” there has been a lot of discussion in the feminist community about consent and the relationships portrayed in this movie about BDSM. For those of you who may not know, BDSM stands for Bondage and Discipline,
Domination and Submission, Sadism and Masochism. Many people, mostly women who have read the book, are beyond excited to see their darkest fantasies appear on the big screen, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Many people in the BDSM community have spoken against 50 Shades for the misrepresentation of their community. Their issue with “50 Shades of Grey” is that it is not a correct representation of the BDSM community by any stretch of the imagination. The relationship in 50 Shades is a purely abusive relationship, which is not a characteristic of the BDSM community. In a study led by Ohio State University, three authors analyzed the text of “50 Shades of Grey.” They used the CDC definitions of abuse to determine whether the interactions between the two main characters were healthy. The results were alarming, to say the least. In “nearly every interaction” between Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, the definition
of intimate partner violence was met. One could argue that the most consenting form of sexual interaction comes from the BDSM community. This piece is a call to people who participate in this community to take a moment and educate those around them. Teach people about the consent and trust that is required in BDSM. Without this information, I truly believe that the general public who read and watch “50 Shades of Grey” will have a harmful understanding of trust, consent, and sexual relations with their partner not only in BDSM, but in their “vanilla” sex lives as well. It is important to point that out because it is going to make many couples who go to see it to get the wrong idea about what BDSM is. They may even experiment with their perception of BDSM, which in reality is abusive and non-consensual sex. This is why members of the BDSM community have an obligation to take this opportunity to educate people about BDSM now.
CORRECTIONS: Jan. 30 The article “PASSHE policy aims to protect minors” stated that the university will cover the cost of clearances by law. The clearances are required by law, but the University is under NO obligation legally to cover these costs. SRU has elected to do so at this time. Also, only students will deal with the payroll office for this topic. All other employees will be processed through the Human Resources Office.
The “In The Quad” section listed Bronson Allman as the name of the third student. The student is actually Bobby Brown. Brown is a sophomore, marketing major from Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The quote was also from Brown.
If we make a substantial error, we want to correct it. If you believe an error has been made, call The Rocket newsroom at (724) 738-4438 or email rocket.letters@sru.edu. If a correction is warranted it will be printed in the opinion section.
Katy Perry superbowl halftime show has ups and downs
Haley Barnes Commentary Haley Barnes is a junior communication major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and the news editor of The Rocket. It is no surprise that Katy Perry started the Superbowl XLIX halftime show in a flaming dress riding a giant jungle cat, while singing “Roar,” which is on her fourth album, “Prism.” Following “Roar,” Perry sang “Dark Horse,” which is also on “Prism.” Perry sang “Dark Horse” on what, to me, looked like a giant chessboard with dancing chessboard pieces. If you watch the music video to “Dark Horse,” the scene of the video is set in an Egyptian time period. The theme for “Dark Horse” is never consistent. These two songs were the only songs Perry sang on “Prism,” which confused me because during the summer of 2013 before the release of “Prism,” Perry
released a series of YouTube videos where she burned the blue wig and had a funeral for her “Teenage Dream” style leading up to the release of “Roar.” The idea of the album “Prism” was to experiment with her darker, more mature self, which did not reflect in her Superbowl XLIX halftime show. Perry then introduced Lenny Kravitz who started singing “I Kissed A Girl,” which is the song that made Perry’s career skyrocket in 2008. One thing I personally didn’t understand is why Kravitz was singing the song. The song just does not apply from a male’s perspective. It is meant to be a cute little song from an innocent girl’s perspective on the curiosity of what it is like to kiss other girls. I know this is really one of the few songs of Perry’s that has a “rock” vibe to it, but Kravitz and Perry didn’t really work well together. Perry then changed her outfit to a “beachy” skirt and bra throwing it back to her second album “Teenage Dream,” where she sang “Teenage Dream” and “California Gurls.” This portion of the show introduced two dancing sharks that the audience was more likely paying attention to than Perry herself because the shark on the left forgot the dance moves. You have to give the dancer some credit though, as he dancing in front more than likely 100,000 people in a shark costume. At least the dancer looked like he was having fun.
Missy Elliot then performed with Perry. When I heard Elliot would be performing with Perry, I just assumed they would be singing the version of “Last Friday Night” that they did together on Perry’s third album, “Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection.” You have to give Perry props for sharing the spotlight with Elliot and letting her come and perform three of her own songs, especially when flashing back to Superbowl XLVI when Madonna practically used Nicki Minaj as a prop to rap for 13 seconds in a song of Madonna’s, in which she was already featured as a part of. This was Perry’s halftime show and she let Elliot perform for three of the 13 minutes that it lasted. Katy finished the show with her favorite song to sing, according to her movie, “Part of Me.” “Firework,” which is on “Teenage Dream.” Perry also finished her “Prismatic World Tour” and “California Dreams Tour” with “Firework.” Out of the whole halftime show, I believe this moment was the highlight. As a big Katy Perry fan, I was kind of let down with the whole performance. I think I kind of expected more from her especially as I saw Perry in concert last summer and it was a great show. I wish Perry would have sang “Birthday” or “This is How We Do,” which are both on “Prism,” at the halftime show. What’s the point of having a new album if you aren’t going to sing the songs on it? Perry also had a huge lead up to her
COURTESY OF TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE
Katy Perry performs in the Superbowl XLIX Half Time Show Sunday.
halftime performance on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, which really got me excited and I realize now that my hopes were a little too high. I will always be a Katy Perry fan, but her halftime show definitely had its ups and downs.
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February 6, 2015
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COMICS
Poppy
By Brooke Griffin
COMICS
Horoscopes Today's Birthday (02/06/15). Together you accomplish miraculous results this year. Group efforts provide necessary leverage. Assume leadership and inspire others. Romantic (and platonic) partnerships thrive with attention. Your collaboration hits pay dirt after 3/20. A new study phase begins after 4/4. Family finances take priority after 10/13. Your savings grow with clever planning. Participate for what you love. To get the advantage, check the day's rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.
Brooke Griffin is a sophomore communication major from Meadville, Pennsylvania.
Best in Show
By Phil Juliano
Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is an 8 -Opposites attract, big time. Abundance is available, if you work for it. Avoid a conflict of interests at work. Nurture family while expanding your career. One option may require too much time away from home. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 7 -- It's getting easier to advance now. Don't rock the boat, deplete savings or forget a deadline. Be cautious when others get impetuous. An important message arrives from afar. Allow yourself a small but special treat. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Stick with a tough domestic beautification job and see it through. Clean up a mess. Don't overlook what your partner needs. Consider unspoken desires. Anticipate a fuss, and offer a compromise. Wait to see what develops.
Brewster Rockit: Space Guy
By Tim Rickard
Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Financial messes could get expensive. Hold onto what's most important. Watch for hidden agendas. Others are encouraging, but don't launch until you're ready. Brainstorm with co-workers. Outside obligations could interfere with private time. Rest later. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Cash rolls in. Save more than you spend. You don't have as much as you'd like yet. Avoid unnecessary quarrels. Present your moneymaking ideas with compassion. Anticipate some disagreement. Avoid provoking jealousies. Entertain suggestions. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Carefully complete your work before deadline. Associates help out. It's a good time to buy or make objects of art or beauty. You have romantic confidence, but someone else may be shy. Patiently offer kindnesses. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Today is good for laying low in contemplation. Avoid frivolity and fuss. Do constructive dreaming, picturing a particular job completed perfectly. Meet confrontation with generosity, in a disagreement about priorities. Talk it over later. Maintain objectivity. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Don't let an argument among friends slow the action. Calmly stand up for yourself (or another). Let your thoughts settle before blurting out. There may be hidden elements. Reassure the team and find what you need nearby. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- A new rung on your career ladder looks possible, but may take time to achieve. Go for it, even if you don't know how. Patiently resolve a communications breakdown. Learn from an expert, without rushing. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 7 -Travels could stall over a financial matter. Pad the budget for extra expenses, and spend carefully. Your work assignment is unclear, possibly changing. Protect your reputation by keeping deadlines. Stay out of someone else's argument. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 7 -- File papers and double-check reservations and financial statements. Organization saves time later. Venture farther afield, carefully. Your partner may have other plans... stay in communication to avoid silly arguments. Share your love patiently and without expecting reciprocation. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is an 8 -- Settle into some quiet time with your mate. Brainstorm and speculate different possibilities. Write down the best ideas. List what you would love to learn. They may not want the same things. Compromise gracefully.
(c)2014 BY NANCY BLACK DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Bliss
By Harry Bliss
B-5
February 6, 2015
S SPORTS
INSIDE SPORTS
Track Senior
Academic Award
Senior thrower Trevor Miller has had a successful collegiate career, and his senior season might be his bet yet.
Senior women's soccer forward Nicole Krueger places in the Fall Top 10 for excelling in academics and on the field.
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Rock men win close game over Mercyhurst By Brian Hepfinger Sports Editor
After losing back to back Pennsylvania State Athletic Conferences games, the Slippery Rock University men's basketball team (167) won a close game against Mercyhurst University (15-8) on Wednesday. The Rock defeated Mercyhurst 56-51, despite missing two of their starters. Junior guard Kelvin Goodwin and junior center Cornelius Brown did not play due to a coach's decision. The first half featured one of the lowest scoring and worst shooting percentages that the Rock have posted this season. At the end of the half, SRU led Mercyhurst 20-19. The Rock had a field goal percentage of 24.1 percent (7-29), while Mercyhurst shot 28.6 percent (8-28) "We're two of the better defensive teams in the league and the country, statistically speaking," SRU head coach Kevin Reynolds said. "We've had a lot of grind-it-out games with them since I've been here. They've all been defensive games, and it was that script again." The second half was much like most of the Rock's games this season, and they picked up the offense. Winning the quarter by a score of 36-32, the Rock improved their field goal percentage to 34.8 percent (823) and Mercyhurst improved to 35.7 percent (10-28).
"We were happy at halftime, and we felt good about where we were," Reynolds said. "We knew shots would eventually fall, so we told the guys to keep being aggressive and get to the foul line." The game was close, with both teams playing tight defense and forcing tough shots. However, with 13 seconds left, SRU junior guard Malcolm Richardson came up with a huge block to force a Mercyhurst shot clock violation with 13 seconds left in the half. "He made three very good defensive plays in a short period of time," Reynolds said. "We're real happy with what he was able to provide for us." Seconds later, senior guard Antonio Butler was fouled and put on the free throw line. He hit one of two free throws. With under 10 seconds left, Mercyhurst had the ball. Jean Onana pulled up for a three point shot, but missed wide right. Mercyhurst's head coach, Gary Manchel thought that Onana was fouled. He argued the call and picked up a technical foul, which Butler hit one of two free throws for. Manchel continued to argue the call, and was eventually ejected from the game. SRU senior guard Desma Nicholson went to the free throw line and hit two of two free throws, sealing the victory for the Rock. Butler was the only Rock player that scored in double digits, and scored a game high 22 points (6-16). He also had
two assists and seven rebounds. "He got trimmer, stronger and fitter, and it's a credit to him in the summertime," Reynolds said. "In Division II, you have to be self-motivated, which he did last season and in the summer." In his first start for SRU, Richardson scored six points (3-6) and had three assists and five rebounds. "Of course there are some plays I wish I would have made and some turnovers I want back, but I think I helped us win, so that's all that matters," Richardson said. Richardson said he prioritizes his defense when he plays. "It always feels good to get stops on defense, and that's one thing I take pride in on the court: not letting my guy score," Richardson said. "Any time I can get a big stop for us on defense, I'm excited and amped for it." Nicholson came off the bench and added nine points (1-5) and three rebounds. He was also fouled a few times, and capitalized on his free throw attempts. "It was a good team effort, but we have a tough week next week against Edinboro and Seton Hill," Reynolds said. "We need to go 2-0 next week to stay in it. Conference is important, but we want to be in the NCAA's." The Rock's next game is against Edinboro University on Feb. 11 in Edinboro, Pennsylvania at 7:30 p.m.
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
Senior guard Desma Nicholson brings the ball up the court during SRU's game against Mercyhurst University. Nicholson scored nine points and had three rebounds.
Second half rally leads Rock women past Mercyhurst By Ryan Barlow Assistant Sports Editor
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
Junior guard Erica Aiello drives to the basket during SRU's game against Mercyhurst University. Aiello scored 20 points, just one shy of her career high. She also had five assists.
The Slippery Rock University women's basketball team (9-12 overall, 5-12 PSAC) was able to overcome a ninepoint deficit at halftime against the Mercyhurst University Lakers (815 overall, 5-12 PSAC) to secure a victory on Wednesday. SRU defeated Mercyhurst 70-63. The Rock outscored the Lakers 42-26 in the second half in order to win. SRU jumped out to a 13-4 run early in the second half to tie the Lakers at 41-41, before eventually pulling ahead and holding onto the lead. "We just keep working hard in practice and built the mentality we needed for this game," SRU junior guard Erica Aiello said. "We just kept on grinding and just need to keep the momentum to carry us into the next games." Aiello, who led SRU in scoring with 20 points and five assists in 32 minutes of play, shot 60 percent from the field. Aiello's 20 points was just one point shy from
her career high of 21, which came earlier this season in a game against the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown. Fifteen of Aiello's points came in the first half alone. "I felt really good during warmups, so I decided to take some early shots," Aiello said. "After a few of them went down, coach just kept telling me to take it to the basket, and so I did." Junior guard Taylor Siggers was also able to add 19 points to the Rock offense, while also collecting four rebounds in 29 minutes. Senior forward D'Asia Chambers contributed eight points for SRU, grabbing 10 rebounds and blocking three shots. Junior guard Megan Hardiman scored nine points, and sophomore guard Audrey Stapleton was also able to add eight points. "These girls guarded their brains out in that second half," SRU head coach Bobby McGraw said. "We were able to hold a strong offensive team to just 26 points in that second half. We focused on defense heading in to this game, and defense is what really
made us come out on top." As a team, Slippery Rock shot 43.9 percent from the field (25-57) compared to the Laker's 33.9 percent. Slippery Rock also shot 81 percent from the freethrow line (18-22). SRU was also able to control the glass by out-rebounding Mercyhurst 42-35. With this victory, The Rock now overcomes Merc yhurst in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Western Division standings, and now sit in seventh place in the division. With five games remaining in the regular season, SRU is now just one game behind sixth place Seton Hill (9-13 overall, 6-11 PSAC), and must finish in the top six of the PSAC West in order to clinch a birth in the PSAC Conference Tournament for the first time since 2006. The Rock will now travel north to Edinboro University on Feb. 11 to take on the fourth place Fighting Scots (15-6 overall, 12-5 PSAC). SRU has already defeated Edinboro once this season 66-57 at Morrow Field House.
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SPORTS
February 6, 2015
Senior motivated by anger, intense emotion By Brittany Fagan Rocket Contributor
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
Senior thrower Trevor Miller competes in the shot put event at the SPIRE Midwest Open in Geneva, Ohio. Miller took second place and reached the provisional mark with a throwing distance of 16.36 meters.
Slipper y Rock University’s top thrower has been competing at an extremely high level for the men's indoor track team as he finishes his final season. Trevor Miller, a senior majoring in safety management, from Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania, has done nothing but improve since when he first began throwing in middle school. Approached by the throws coach in his middle school hallway, he has remained dedicated to the sport ever since. Recently named Athlete of the Week, Miller has had an exceptional indoor track season. Throwing mainly shot put and weight throw this season, Miller has reached the provisional mark in the shot put at all four meets he has competed in. “Trevor has definitely earned his success in this sport,” throws coach Megan Shadeck said. “He is very dedicated to the sport and doesn’t like missing practices or workouts. Not only has he had success out on the field, but he is also improving in the weight
room with his personal records in lifting.” In addition to this, Miller is only 0.09 meters away from the shot put school record for SRU. Additionally, he took first place at the Youngstown State College Invitational this indoor season, and currently holds the best shot put throw in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference with a distance of 16.76 meters. This distance also ranks him 12th best in the entire Division II shot put throws. Miller has also performed very well in the weight throw, sitting at the fifth best throw in the PSAC with a distance of 16.20 meters. He’s had success at all conference meets he has competed in, including two second place performances at last year’s outdoor and indoor meets in the shot put. When it comes to competition, Miller is naturally strong and explosive. "For throwing, I’m actually motivated by anger and intense emotion inside of me,” Miller said. “At last year’s outdoor PSAC’s, the thrower who beat me in the shot put made a comment about how he doesn’t even have to try
to win the meet and it instantly put a fire in me to beat him this year.” Aside from the success he has with his throws, he says that one of his greatest accomplishments regarding the sport is the number of people he has become friends with and made connections with. “Sure, doing well in sports or in school is great, but it’s nothing without the people to share the moments with,” Miller said. Shadeck had nothing but praise for Miller and how much of a role model he is for his teammates. "Trevor is a talented individual who sets a great example for the younger athletes, and truly gives it his all,” Shadeck said. Miller said the biggest and best advice he ever received came from his father. “He s ai d t hat whenever you are doing anything, you must do it to the fullest from the beginning and not do it half way," Miller said. "Otherwise, you will have to go back and fix it anyways. He said not to be satisfied with putting something out there with just half effort." Miller will b e graduating from SRU this spring.
Rock men's indoor track earns 27 PSAC qualifiers By Brittany Fagan Reinhardt placed Rocket Contributor
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
Senior runner Monte Chapman sprints in the SPIRE Midwest Open for SRU. Chapman and the rest of the 4x400 meter relay team took first place with a time of 3:20:65. He also took 12th in the 400m dash.
The Slipper y Ro ck University men’s indoor track team secured 27 Pennsylvania State Athletic qualifying marks and 14 top 10 finishes at the SPIRE Midwest Open meet in Geneva, Ohio last Saturday. SRU also had one provisional qualifying mark and one victory to go along with the rest of their success. “We had a strong performance by the middle distance men, as well as all of the other events,” SRU head coach John Papa said. “We hope to put it all together at the PSAC meet at the end of February, but we still have much work and improvements to make in the next four weeks.” The throwers had a good showing, with senior Trevor Miller reaching the provisional mark in the shot put with a distance of 16.36 meters, putting him in second place. Miller has now met the provisional mark each time he has competed this season. Ju n i o r David Reinhardt placed 12th in the shot put with a distance of 13.88 meters, joining Miller in another PSAC mark. Both men also competed in the weight throw.
third with a distance of 16.66 meters, and Miller placed fifth with a distance of 16.50 meters. Senior Nick Garuccio joined the men in ninth with a distance of 14.83 meters. Other field events included sophomore Jordan Pacheco placing sixth in the pole vault, clearing 4.55 meters. Shawn Lacue also had an impressive performance in the high jump, placing 10th at 1.90 meters. The record-breaking 4x400 meter relay team took first place at the meet with a time of 3:20.65. Sophomore Jacob VanHouten, senior Hu nt e r Williams, senior Monte Chapman and freshman James Chandler made up the relay team. Williams, VanHouten and Chapman all competed in the 400 meter dash placing seventh, ninth and 12th with times of 49.91 seconds, 50.07 seconds and 50.86 seconds respectively. Williams, Chapman and sophomore Erik Record also competed in the 200 meter dash with times of 22.32 seconds, 22.89 seconds and 22.59 seconds respectively. Williams currently has the second fastest mark of any PSAC athlete in the 200 meter dash this season.
The distance group had a strong performance, with senior Tyler Melius leading the way, placing third in the mile at 4:14.60. Other competitors in the mile included junior Ryan Thompson and sophomores Stephen Shephard and Tyler Palenchak, placing 11th, 18th and 25th respectively. All four men qualified for the PSAC meet. Thompson and Shephard joined sophomore Zac Patton in the 800 meter run with times of 1:58.17, 1:57.98 and 1:57:86 respectively. All three men reached the PSAC mark in this event. Rounding out the distance events were senior Jaron Martin and junior Charlie Frank in the 5,000 meter run. The men recorded times of 15:37.85 and 15:18.23. “I think the men did very well,” Frank said. “We have a lot of potential, and it was great to see us take a step in the right direction. We have been training hard and encouraging each other, so, it's nice to see that translate onto the track.” The Green and White are set to compete this weekend at Youngstown State University for the YSU National Invite on Friday and Saturday night.
SPORTS Progress pleases women's indoor track
February 6, 2015
By Cody Nespor Rocket Contributor
Competing in the SPIRE Midwest Open at SPIRE Institute this past weekend, the Slippery Rock University women’s indoor track team recorded 24 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) qualifying marks, one NCAA qualifying mark and 14 top 10 finishes. The Rock’s performance was highlighted by the NCAA qualifying mark achieved by standout junior Kaitlyn Clark. Participating in the pole vault, Clark came in third place by matching her season best 3.65 meter clearance. Clark’s clearance is currently the best mark in the PSAC and is the 18th best clearance in all of Division II so far this season. Freshman Courtney McQuaide earned a PSAC qualifying mark and came in sixth place with her 3.50 meter clear. In the high jump sophomore Sabrina Anderson and juniors Ashley West and Paige Kassab all cleared the PSAC standard by jumping 1.6 meters. Anderson came in third place, but West and Kassab cam in sixth and eighth respectively due to missed attempts. Along with fellow junior Sam Taylor, West and Kassab also reached the PSAC standard in the triple jump. Taylor came in fourth place with a 10.98 meter jump, West finished in seventh with a 10.71 meter jump, and Kassab landed in tenth with her 10.34 meter jump. On the track, the 4x400 meter relay team impressed for the second week in a row. The team of juniors Jasmine Bailey, Cassandra Swartzbaugh, Lexie Nowakowski and sophomore Lauren Harvey ran the relay race in 4:00.67, their best time of the season. They finished in fourth place. Individually, Bailey and fellow junior Emily Moroco earned PSAC qualifying times in both the 60 and 200 meter dashes. In the 60 meter dash, Bailey ran a time of 7.83 second, good for fifth place. Moroco finished in eight
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seconds, which earned her 11 place. In the 200 meter dash, Bailey came in second place and was the first collegiate finisher in an event that had over 100 people competing. Bailey’s time was 25.16 seconds, which is the best time by any PSAC runner this season. Moroco finished in 15 place with a time of 26.07 seconds. Bailey’s performances in the 4x400 meter relay, the 60 meter dash, and the 200 meter dash earned her the honor of being named the SRU athlete of the week. SRU head coach John Papa spoke highly of Bailey and her determination on and off the track. “Jas is on a mission to do extremely well this year, and she’s highly motivated to get better each and every week,” Papa said. “She was the conference champ of the 200 meter last year in outdoor, so, she’s got a target on her back this year and she’s not afraid of that.” Nowakowski and Swartzbaugh also had success individually, as they both reached the PSAC standard in the 400 meter dash. Nowakowski came in fourth place with a 58.57 run and Swartzbaugh finished in 12 place with a 1:00.49 minute run. Three more Green and White runners reached the PSAC standard in the 60 meter hurdles. Sophomores Kennedy Evans and Anderson, along with junior Summer Weinheimer earned PSAC qualifying marks. Evans was in 11 place with a 9.255 second time, Anderson came in 17th with a 9.44 second time and Weinheimer finished in 20 place in 9.54 seconds. The final PSAC mark on the track was earned by freshman Tessa Dombi in the 5,000 meter run. Dombi finished the run in 18:45.3, which was good for 11th. “The newest girl to qualify for conference was freshman Tessa Dombi in the 5,000," Papa said. "It’s a great personal accomplishment for her.” The last six PSAC marks were reached in the throwing events, two in the weight
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
Junior sprinter Lexie Nowakowski takes part in the SPIRE Midwest Open for SRU. Nowakowski and the rest of the 4x400 relay team finished with a season-best time of 4:00:67.
throw and four in the shot put. In the weight throw, junior Breana Northcott came in third place with a 16.19 meter throw and senior Brittany Christiansen came in fifth place with a 15.53 meter throw. Christiansen lead the way in the shot put by coming in 11 place with her 11.69 meter throw. Behind her was junior Anna Frengel, who came in 14th with an 11.64 meter throw. Northcott finished in 19 place with an 11.25 meter throw and Sophomore Caitlin Whalen came in 20th with an 11.24 meter throw. Papa is happy with what he’s seeing from
his athletes and likes where the team is heading as a whole. “I am pleased with the progress that a lot of our girls are making as we continue on towards the conference championships,” Papa said. “We’re more concerned with training than actual competition at this point with some of the girls. The goal will always be the conference championships on Feb. 28 and March 1 at Edinboro.” The Rock will travel to Youngstown for the YSU National Invite on Friday and Saturday.
Rock women's soccer senior places in Fall Top 10 By Cody McCullough Rocket Contributor
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET
Senior women's soccer forward Nicole Krueger challenges a Clarion defender for the ball during SRU's game against Clarion University on Sept. 17. Krueger tallied 14 points and scored six goals in her senior season.
The Pennsylvania State At h l e t i c Conference (PSAC) recognized a Slippery R o c k Un i v e r s i t y women’s soccer team forward for excelling in the classroom and on the field. S enior exercis e science major Nicole Krueger was one of the five women awarded a Fall Top 10 award which is given to five men and five women that have excelled in academics and athletics, chosen from the 18 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference schools. In order to receive the award, a student must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 and have a significant amount of athletic achievements. “For me, it is a huge honor to receive, and I am very thankful for it,” Krueger said. “I've never played for awards; I play because I love it. It is nice to get recognized, though.” Krueger is from Scottsdale, Arizona, where she attended Horizon High School. She, along with the rest of the Horizon women's team, won the Arizona state title in 2009. When Krueger visited Slipper y Rock, she was won
over by former head soccer coach Noreen Herlihy. Herlihy praised Krueger for what she has accomplished at SRU and what she brings to the team. “Nicole is every coach's dream player,” Herlihy said. “She plays with integrity and is passionate about the game. She was always extremely coachable and always fully understood her role in the program.” In her first three s e as ons, Kr ueger appeared in 48 games and started 22 of them. She tallied six assists and seven goals over those three seasons. She also scored two game winning goals during her junior season with the team. Krueger continued to be that dream player during this past season for her senior campaign, tallying 14 points with a team high six goals. She was also a part of SRU's journey to the PSAC tournament with an 11-6-1 record ov e r a l l . K r u e g e r was named to the Capital One CoSIDA Academic AllAmerica Team. K r u e ge r w a s n’t just about athletics, though. While at Slippery Rock, she has maintained a 4.0 GPA. According to Krueger, balancing
athletics and academics was not too difficult because she was prepared. She thanked her parents for teaching her that as long as you work hard for the things you care about, then everything else will fall into place. Krueger showed how much she cared about soccer and the classroom with the effort she put into both activities. Herlihy noticed this throughout Krueger's four seasons and praised her college career. “She was a wonderful player and tremendous ambassador for our program,” Herlihy said. “She has carved a huge path of success over the years, and is just an all-around class student athlete.” Krueger is continuing to carve a bigger path of success, as she is currently in Chicago doing an internship at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital's Fitness Center. This internship is her last step before g r a du at i n g f rom the Exercise Science program. Krueger is not sure what her plans are after graduation, but she plans to apply to graduate schools in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Exercise Physiology.
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February 6, 2015
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CAMPUS LIFE
INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE
Spin, Twirl, Win!
Mother May I?
The SRU Winter Guard competes at the Three Rivers Association Ensemble Contest where they earn a first place victory. Read on to find out how they scored a win.
Andi dishes out some helpful advice for a battling motherdaughter duo and a concerned sister in this week's Ask Andi.
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Gamer's Guild elects first female president
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Gamer's Guild president, Carrie Mae Hanrahan plays "Escape: The Curse of the Temple" with fellow guild members during the club's meeting last Wednesday in the Student Center.
By Janelle Wilson Asst. Campus Life Editor
The mostly male SRU Gamer’s Guild elected its first woman president last semester, and gathered the highest number of members since the club began 10 years ago. Senior creative writing major, Carrie Mae Hanrahan, 21, joined Gamer’s Guild her sophomore year, and was also the vice president of Urban Gaming Club before being elected for presidency. Hanrahan said that the most important thing she’s done for Gamer’s Guild is rewriting its constitution, which included modifying the membership rules. “We’re a group of people who genuinely care
Part 2 of 3 about one another,” Hanrahan said. “I don’t make any decisions without contacting the rest of the group and seeing how they feel about what I’m proposing.” The Gamer’s Guild parliamentarian, junior
philosophy major, Darren Baldwin, 21, is in charge of enforcing the club’s rules. He said Hanrahan’s rewrite made his job easier. “Carrie has been exceptionally good at inviting and welcoming new people,” Baldwin said. “She maintains a very friendly atmosphere.” She said that being the first woman president caused some issues among the male-dominated guild at first, but said that the female energy is good for the group. “As competitive as boys get, it’s easier for a girl to come in and diffuse a situation,” Hanrahan said. “They’re less threatened by female presence, and it keeps the guild fun and lighthearted, like it should be.” SEE GUILD, PAGE D-3
Students travel to Harrisburg to work for state departments By Ron Owens Rocket Contributor
This semester, two Slippery Rock students will embark on a 15-week internship in Harrisburg. Nicole Loncaric, a senior political science major and Abbey Cadden, a senior environmental studies major, have been selected by The Harrisburg Internship Semester (THIS) Program to travel to the state capital and intern in its various departments. THIS is a program that all of Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) schools participate in. Each school selects a student, or students, and sends them to Harrisburg for the duration of a semester. Since its inception in 1989, PASSHE schools have sent over 500 students to intern in dozens of state departments, agencies and even in the offices of the governor and Speaker of the House. Associate professor of political science, Dr. Sharon Sykora, is the university’s THIS representative. She explained, “The intent is to give students an opportunity to work in state government, in both the executive and legislative branches in a variety
of settings in various agencies and departments.” The selection process to become a THIS intern starts off, as with any other internship, with the submission of the student’s resume, letters of recommendation and a writing sample. These are all submitted to Sykora who then selects the best candidates. The head of THIS Program will then send the candidate a survey to best gauge his or her interests. All the candidates are sent to Harrisburg where they will be interviewed at the departments closest to their major and their personal interests. After the interviews, the candidates select which department they would most enjoy working in, and their choice will be made official within a few days and then they start working with their selected department shortly thereafter. The internship is worth 15 class credits, nine of which are for the work the interns actually perform in Harrisburg. Another three are for a weekly public policy seminar the interns will attend during the course of their stay, and the final three are for a research paper that the interns will submit at the end of their stay. The internship also includes a stipend that covers living and personal expenses.
“It’s truly a wonderful opportunity presented to state school students who might have not had this prospect otherwise,” said Cadden. “THIS helps students further their career goals because it takes students and puts them directly in a field relevant to what they would like to do after college. A great aspect about the program is that you can be any major to participate. When graduation times rolls around THIS interns will have a semester’s worth of experience that employers are looking for when they’re hiring.” Cadden is interning at the Department of Environmental Protection and Loncaric is interning at the policy office in the Department of Human Services. Any Slippery Rock student interested in participating in THIS internship next semester is advised to get in contact with Sykora in the Political Science Department. Students of all majors and with all grade point averages are welcome to participate. Further THIS program information is available at the university’s website, THIS program’s website or by calling the Dixon University Center at (717) 720-4089.
CAMPUS LIFE
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February 6, 2015
SRU Winter Guard p places first at Three Rivers Winter Ensemble Association Contest, Moves on to Regionals
PHOTO COURTESY OF LAUREN WADDELL The Slippery Rock University Winter Guard performs their routine to "Carol of the Bells: A Winter Journey" during the Three Rivers Ensemble Assosciation Contest. The Winter Guard placed first against a total of 45 teams participating in the competition. The team will be competing again for the regional title at the end of the month.
By Kelsey Phillips Rocket Contributor
The Slippery Rock University Winter Guard took first place at the Three Rivers Winter Ensemble Association Contest on Jan. 31 with their performance of “Carol of the Bells: A Winter Journey." The SRU Winter Guard was awarded top honors in the Regional A Collegiate Class out of 45 participating guards from Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Judges rank the guard based on technique, unity, creativity and overall performance, Samantha Passarello, an information systems and technology major and co-captain of the SRU Guard said. Winter guard is similar to color guard, the guard that performs with a marching band, but because the audience is seated closer to the guard they must be more expressive and detailed, Passarello said. The group practices twice a week and performs nearly every other Saturday. Students are selected to join the guard based on their abilities with spinning a flag, rifle, saber and their movement techniques, Aley said. The guard holds bake sales, clinics and sells T-shirts throughout the year in order to afford a performance floor, uniforms, equipment, buses, entrance fees and other expenses, Passarello said. The group also has an extremely dedicated staff helping them take
Ask Andi
Andi is a senior at SRU giving advice to those who seek it and occassionally to those who don't. Question:
Dear Andi, I don't know what it is lately, but my mom and I have been constantly at each other's throats about one thing or another. If I wait even 10 minutes after she asks me to do something like washing the dishes or taking out the garbage I get a lecture. I don't want to fight with her anymore, but I don't know how to calmly talk to her about how I'm feeling. Andi, please tell me what I should do. Sincerely, Mommie's Dearest
their skills from practice to performance, she said. “We work with some of the best people in the world,” Passarello said. Mr. Bruno Zuccula, the guard’s instructor and an SRU alumnus, selects the music for the performances and aids in refining the guard’s overall technique and performance qualities. Zuccula said he has worked in the color guard section for 48 years, 13 years performing and 35 years instructing. During that time, Zuccula said that he taught in Japan, Italy, England and other regions in the United States, totaling 10 world championships in drum corps, three bands of American championships and three winter guard international championships. Along with their instructors, Passarello and Christine Aley, a middle level mathematics major, play unique roles as co-captains, both teaching and learning along with the rest of the guard. “Every member of our Winter Guard is talented. Each member has their own strengths,” Aley said. “As co-captains, it is our job to take the work that has been given to us and make sure that everyone learns and understands it, whether that means answering questions brought up to us or asking questions ourselves to make sure that everyone has a clear understanding of the routine.” Watching other guards perform before their group at a competition is exciting rather than nerve-racking for Aley. The guards show support for one another and have fun while showing off their hard work, she said.
Answer:
Dear Mommie’s Dearest, To be completely honest with you, my mother and I have been in the same situation before multiple times. For some reason, mothers and daughters just have this tendency to fight. Call it hormones, or whatever you would like, but it happens and the best thing to do in those situations is to just take a breath. Here’s what I had to do to stop fighting with my mother in situations like these. First, before you get angry or react to what she’s doing, figure out what is going on in your mother’s life. Is she in any stressful situations that might cause her to have a short fuse? Is anything going on at work, or with the family that could cause her to get angry faster? I think a lot of the time we don’t think outside of our own emotions and react instead of trying to see things from the other person’s perspective. This goes for not only mother-daughter relationships, but all relationships. Second, think about how you’re speaking to your mother and what you’re saying. There tends to be a lot of miscommunication just simply because of the tone of your voice. You can say the same thing multiple ways and they can have different meanings. So before you speak, make sure to think about what you’re saying. Lastly,
When there are difficult tricks in the show, mistakes are bound to happen, but it is how the group recovers that truly matters, Passarello said. “As a team, it's important for us to not feel alone while we are performing,” she said. Consistency is key, but when a drop or mistake does happen the guard tries to adapt quickly and counts out the motions to help the other members get back into the work, Passarello said. As the group prepares for future competitions, Zuccula encourages them to “always do your best. Never let an opportunity pass you by. Enjoy every moment.” And not all rewards from competition come in silver and gold. For Aley, being a part of Winter Guard has given her the benefits of hard work and perseverance. “Winter Guard is not easy. You must learn formation placements, routines, and must always be improving on equipment technique and skills, while fulfilling the jobs and requirements of being a student. It can be hard and a little overwhelming at times, but with perseverance and hard work the ending product is amazing. This lesson can be transferred to any aspect in life and is one I will keep with me throughout mine,” she said. The guard will be performing their show in the Morrow Field House during common hour Feb. 26 and move on to their first WGI Regional Competition on Feb. 28 where they will compete against guards from all over the U.S.
if you do decide to talk to her, make sure you don’t address any situations with “You are acting ridiculous!” or attacking her using “you” statements, but instead let her know how her actions are making you feel. That will seem like less of an attack and more of a conversation. The biggest thing is to talk to your mom like you would a friend and give her the same respect you would anyone else because your mom is the ultimate friend. She’ll be there forever no matter what so appreciate her, fighting or not. Family is forever! Much Love, Andi
Question: Dear Andi, I'm just going to put it out there... I hate my brother's girlfriend. Everything that she does gets on my nerves. Typically I wouldn't be afraid to tell my brother how I feel about his girlfriend, but I can tell that he really likes her. Should I say anything to him about this, or should I just let it go? I honestly don't want to hurt his feelings if he's serious about her. Sincerely, Sister Problems
Answer: Dear Sister Problems, What do you hate about this girl? Do you not like little habits she has, or has she done something that you feel is morally wrong against your brother? If it is something little that is bothering you, I don’t think you need to address that with your brother. If it is something deeper than that, something that your brother needs to know about, then I would tell him. Family plays a big role in a relationship whether people realize it or not. I like to believe that you don’t marry just your boyfriend or girlfriend, you marry their family, so it’s important that you like this girl or at least try to. How well do know her personally? Sometimes, learning more personal things about a person can help you understand why they act the way they do, and that might lead you to hate her less and less. So, before you go and tell your brother how much you don’t like this girl, learn more about her first. If you still don’t like her, then I would tell your brother. In the end, it really doesn’t matter if you like her or not (as harsh as that may sound). If your brother is happy, you should try to be happy for him! You trying will show that you care. Hope things turn around! Andi
CAMPUS LIFE
February 6, 2015
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SRU student creates beatboxing club Guild unites gamers Continued from Page D 1
By Rebecca Sheriff Rocket Contributor
A transfer student created the Beatbox Society last semester to meet new people, and share his passion. The society, founded by communication major Michael Johnson, is open to all students who may be interested in the world of beat-boxing. Inspiration for the society came when Johnson, 24, first transferred to Slippery Rock University last semester after having attended two other schools. “Apart from my interest in the art form, the inspiration came from my desire to meet other people,” Johnson said. “Being an ‘experienced’ transfer student, I understand how difficult it can be to meet new people and to acclimate yourself to a university's culture. It was this reason why I chose to form the group; I want to make an organization where students not only can meet other students, but where they can feel comfortable doing so.” While Johnson was the sole founder of the Society in terms of its constitution, by-laws and establishing the necessary relationships within Student Government Association (SGA), the idea behind the club was a collective effort. The society’s advisor, Dr. Heather Rice, as well as a few other early members all contributed to the realization of the Beatbox REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Society. After initially finding difficulty promoting the club Beatbox Society president Michael Johnson performs at the to the student body, Johnson discovered a strong interest in Rock's Got Talent show in November. support of the club. An element of hip-hop culture, beat-boxing is a relatively young art form, but humans have long been using their said. “The requirement we ask of our members or potential voices to formulate percussion-like sounds. Johnson said members is to come with an open mind and a desire to learn.” that beat-boxers around the world strive to create a sense of Johnson also aspires to eventually host talent showcases community, and that this is one of his ultimate goals for the that spotlight the members’ hard work and dedication to beatorganization. He plans for the group to become more than boxing. Seeing as the society is only in its first official semester, just a gathering place for students who want to learn and that he wants to keep the short-term goals for the club optimistic share an interest in vocal percussion, but also to have it be a but reasonable. He would like to see the SRU Beatbox Society social outlet for those who may not have other opportunities become not only one of the most popular clubs/organizations to find a tight knit community on campus. on campus, but one that will be recognized as one of the “One of the things I have continued to express not only largest of its kind in western Pennsylvania. to my executive board but to all of the club’s members is “Some of the activities we would like to occur include acceptance through encouragement. I want my members teaching beat-boxing to its members, jam sessions (which are to be active representatives of the words ‘student outreach,’” open but not limited to various genres and styles of music), Johnson said. music/artist analysis and social events such as meet and greets The society is geared towards anyone with or without and icebreakers,” Johnson said. “I want to instill and establish experience, and those that have expressed interest in learning a working system that will still be around after I leave SRU. how to beatbox. My long-term goal would be for SRUBS to be recognized in “People who are new to the world of beat-boxing, especially the beatbox community on a national level.” those who do not know how to beatbox but have expressed The society currently has 35 members and meets every even the slightest desire to learn, are not only welcome but Wednesday at 8 p.m. in Vincent Science Center (VSC) room strongly encouraged to join SRU Beatbox Society,” Johnson 103.
Student Government Association Open Positions! Commuter Senator (5) Building F Senator (1) Rock Apartment Senator (1) Applications available online at www.srsga.org and in the office!
Budgeting Sign Ups located outside the SGA office in the Smith Student Center
is divided into several stations, where gamers participate in separate tabletop and role-playing games, or sometimes videogames. They also have hosted casino nights, where the club plays poker and Texas Hold’em. “There’s a very negative stereotype associated with being a gamer,” Hanrahan said. “I wish more people would come and experience the guild for themselves. Even if they try it and don’t like it, it doesn’t hurt to just open people up to new experiences.” Hanrahan said that membership is at its highest since the club started, with 40 total members, which she attributes to the social aspect of the club that bonds the group together. “We involve new members just as heavily as we involve the older ones,” Hanrahan said. “Everyone here wears their heart on their sleeve, and we all care about each other.” Sophomore music major Clifford Smolko, 19, joined Gamer’s Guild last semester after introducing himself to people wearing gaming T-shirts in Boozel. When he introduced himself, he said that they suggested that he come to a meeting, and he’s been a member since. “People in high school are quick to make fun of gamers,” Smolko said. “The guild unites college students who would otherwise be playing by themselves in their dorms, and brings them together to share their passions. I haven’t had a bad experience.” They’ve also had events where people brought tabletop and console games, but also have casino nights, where the club plays poker and Texas Hold’em. One of the more popular tabletop games is “Escape: The Curse of the Temple.” Senior IT major Ryan Legenzoff, 29, described “Escape: The Curse of the Temple” as a mix between “Yahtzee” and “Indiana Jones.” “Escape’ is like a frantic puzzle,” Legenzoff said. “It’s a combo of storytelling and a race to get out of this temple within ten minutes. It’s pretty intense.” Hanrahan said that for someone who’s trying to get into gaming, it’s best to go to something like Gamer’s Guild where someone can show them how to play. She also said to come into it with an open mind because the group is comprised of all kinds of different people. “It’s so important to break down these stereotypes so that people who are interested in the guild aren’t afraid to get involved,” Hanrahan said. “You never know, we might surprise you.” Check back in next week's issue to see the final Gamer Girl in our series, competitive gamer and Bungee employee, Bonnie Burton
O N on.impulse. SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF DANCE
Scholarship and Conference Grant Applications now available! More information is available at www.srsga.org
SATURDAY, FEB. 7, 2015 The Succop Theater Butler County Community College 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Mockingjay SSC Theater Friday at 4 & 8 PM Saturday at 8 PM Sunday at 4 & 8 PM
General Admission $12 Students, seniors and children $8 Tickets available at the SRU Smith Student Center Information Desk or by calling 724.738.4926
FREE POPCORN! @srsga
sga@sru.edu www.srsga.org
www.SRU.edu A member of Pennsylvania‘s State System of Higher Education #8400 12-2014
Slippery Rock University is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Dance Photo: Candice Kaminski
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February 6, 2015