The Rocket 04-04-2014 by SRU Rocket

Slippery Rock Swept Clarion Christian Kerns throws a pitch in the Rock's win over Clarion Thursday. Page C-1

Friday April 4, 2014 • Volume 97, Issue Number 20 • Slippery Rock University's Student Newspaper

the rocket

www.theonlinerocket.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Election brings P.R.I.D.E. to SGA

NEWS

RockOUT Plans Equality Prom RockOUT will be hosting an equality prom April 12 with a "thrift shop" theme. Page A-2

OPINION

Some Fees Are Worth The Money While most students are against raising the parking permit fee, we think some fees are worth raising. Page B-1

SPORTS

Lacrosse Gets Memorable Win The Slippery Rock women's lacrosse team defeated Gannon University for the ﬁrst time in program history Tuesday night. Page C-1

CAMPUS LIFE

CODA Comedy Brings Laughs Children of Death Adults (CODA) comedians came to campus to perform their act in ASL. Page D-3

Broadway Cabaret Sells Out Swope The Musical Theatre Society's Cabaret shows are known for selling out Swope Recital Hall nine times out of 10 with a multitude of musical performances. Page D-1

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Student Government Association (SGA) presidential candidate, Katie Hill (right), of the P.R.I.D.E. Party celebrates her victory following the announcement that she had been elected the president of SGA for the 2014-2015 year. The P.R.I.D.E. Party's executive board were all elected into office.

President elect receives 64 percent of total ballots Residence Hall Senators include Emily Murasso for Building A, Aimee Albright for Building B, Jaclynn Chomavfor Watson News Editor Hall, Jessica Johnson for Building D, Lainna Garrow for Building In a 695-391 vote announced Tuesday, Katie Hill of the E, Sophia Sarver for Building F, and Casey Squires was elected as P.R.I.D.E. Party beat Maria Montero of the C.O.S.T.U.M.E. Party the ROCK Apartments senator. The vote to decide the North Hall senator was tied in the Student Government Association (SGA) between Caleb Martin. The Rhoads Hall senator vote presidential election for the 2014-15 school year. was tied between Jackie Bursic, Jaymie Macek, Jordan “I was anxious because both Maria and I are Bingman, Ben Ways, Carl Peter Izzo III, Bryce Groh, close friends and we’re also very good competitors and Alexander Durhar, with each candidate receiving and we’re also very involved on campus,” Hill one vote. Run-off elections will be held at a later date explained. “So I was very surprised and I was so Ryan Morgado and Melissa Lourie won positions excited.” as graduate senators. The elected commuter senators Current SGA President Buddy Clements was satisfied with the results of the election. Scan this QR-Code include Daniel Gladis, Jeff Locke, Alex Wenrich, Dave “I think that Katie Hill is going to do a wonderful for exclusive video Miller, Kaci Vandergrift, Mel Seymour, Shannon job” Clements said. “I think that Maria would coverage of the election Pitcairn, Breanna Bayer, Megan Burr, Jessica Horgos, Amber Kennedy, Steven Zamborsky, Cody Moody, have been a wonderful candidate as well. I have results. Alex Nietert, Tatiana Bone. a lot of hope for next year’s Student Government “The group is going to be good,” Clements said. “The president Association to do great things and I believe they will.” “[Hill is] very personable,” Clements added. “She was the is only as good as their senators, and I think they’re going to do president of Green and White Society so she already has a lot of a good job.” Hill also expressed her satisfaction with the senators who were experience coming into the position. She knows how to run a elected. group. She already knows a lot of individuals in the university.” “I am super excited about the group of senators that were The other candidates that were elected include Vice President of Student Affairs Vanessa Dufford, Vice President of Financial elected and the group that I get to work with. I feel like we’re going Affairs Baylee Childress, Vice President of Internal Affairs John to be really great for this campus. We have a lot of great ideas and Coulter and Vice President of Campus Outreach Anthony I’m really excited to see what we’re going to do. I keep saying the word ‘excited’ because I just can’t wait to get started.” Plumberg.

By Jonathan Janasik

SRU football fans to visit Michigan Stadium in Fall By Kevin Squires Assistant News Editor

Slippery Rock University's football team is headed to Michigan Stadium for a regular-season football game Oct. 18 during a Michigan football bye week. Expecting a great amount of student interest in attending the game, the Board of Cooperative Activities approved a new initiative request to provide transportation for students to the football stadium for a total of $2,550 during their meeting Thursday. The use of funds will be stipulated in the 2014-2015 budget. The particular bus company has yet to be designated as the board is examining some different options. “This event comes up very quickly in the fall semester and I know last year we were scrambling,” Abby Schon, Student Government Association (SGA) Vice President of Financial Affairs, said.

Funds to compete in a national inline hockey competition were also approved for the Inline Hockey Club in the amount of $7,546 out of Budgetary Reserves. The funds were approved with the stipulation that the group create self-support budget by the end of the semester. The team will have competed in the national championships three of the past four years and has hopes to continue the success in the future. SGA President Buddy Clements encouraged the club to make a stronger effort of fundraising all year to alleviate costs associated with the competition. Active Minds had a new initiative of $4,100 approved to bring a speaker to campus and is being designated from the 2014-2015 budget. The money will be allocated to bringing one speaker for one night, according to Active Minds. The board also approved the minutes from the March 13, 2014 meeting.

NEWS

A-2 7-DAY FORECAST FOR SLIPPERY ROCK FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Breezy with rain and a t-storm

Cooler; a morning shower

Milder with clouds and sun

Breezy and cooler with rain

Cloudy with a shower possible

Mostly cloudy

Milder with sun, then clouds

66°

39°

44°

27°

58°

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 70 36 r 46 42 r 57 41 r 66 37 r 62 36 r 55 47 r 63 40 r 59 38 r 50 46 r 70 40 r 46 44 r 49 43 r 71 40 r 48 44 r 69 37 r

Saturday HI LO W 48 30 pc 59 30 pc 50 29 pc 45 30 pc 41 27 c 57 32 pc 46 28 pc 44 29 pc 62 36 pc 50 30 pc 52 27 pc 50 29 pc 51 32 pc 52 28 pc 44 27 pc

51°

41°

Sat.

Monday HI LO W 55 39 r 56 40 r 48 42 r 54 40 r 50 38 r 55 44 r 53 43 r 49 39 r 60 45 r 57 43 r 53 38 r 49 42 r 61 43 r 52 41 r 53 39 r

Sun

Sun. Mon.

Tuesday HI LO W 46 31 c 58 34 c 51 32 c 48 32 c 49 32 sh 59 35 c 49 32 c 45 30 c 63 40 c 48 33 c 58 33 c 53 33 c 46 32 c 56 34 c 49 30 c

Tue.

Wed. Thu.

Wednesday HI LO W 47 32 c 54 35 s 49 28 pc 45 31 s 43 31 c 53 33 pc 47 28 c 43 29 c 60 42 pc 50 30 c 52 28 pc 48 30 pc 49 32 c 54 30 pc 48 29 c

Thursday HI LO W 58 37 pc 52 36 s 57 50 s 62 39 pc 62 31 pc 63 53 s 61 44 pc 53 36 pc 64 50 pc 60 42 pc 58 38 s 57 37 s 60 46 pc 60 42 s 63 33 pc

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!

INDEX Blotter.................A-3 Sports...................C-1 Opinion...............B-1 Campus Life.............D-1 Comics...................B-4

2012 Mark of Excellence First Place Winner in Region 4 from the Society of Professional Journalists.

47°

28°

58°

NATIONAL FORECAST FOR THE WEEK TEMPERATURES

32°

Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal

IN THE SKY

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 58 38 pc 59 35 s 59 34 pc 53 37 s 49 34 pc 61 36 s 58 35 pc 54 35 pc 61 42 s 61 37 pc 57 33 pc 57 35 pc 60 40 pc 57 32 pc 57 35 pc

Newsroom: (724) 738-4438 Advertising: (724) 738-2643 Fax: (724) 738-4896 Email: rocket.letters@sru.edu

31°

50°

™

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

34°

UV INDEX

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Moon

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Rise 6:59 a.m. 6:57 a.m. 6:56 a.m. 6:54 a.m. 6:52 a.m. 6:51 a.m. 6:49 a.m. Rise 10:14 a.m. 11:03 a.m. 11:54 a.m. 12:48 p.m. 1:43 p.m. 2:39 p.m. 3:36 p.m.

MOON PHASES

Set 7:48 p.m. 7:49 p.m. 7:50 p.m. 7:51 p.m. 7:52 p.m. 7:53 p.m. 7:55 p.m. Set 12:08 a.m. 1:01 a.m. 1:48 a.m. 2:30 a.m. 3:08 a.m. 3:42 a.m. 4:14 a.m.

First

Full

Last

New

4/7

4/15

4/22

4/29

April 4, 2014

PRECIPITATION

Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal

National Summary: An area of low pressure will exit the Northeast on Saturday, drawing in some cooler air from Canada. It will also be breezy across a good portion of the Great Lakes region, Northeast and midAtlantic Saturday, adding to the chill. High pressure will slide into the nation’s midsection, bringing dry and tranquil conditions from the Upper Midwest into the Southeast. An unsettled weather pattern will continue across the West as a frontal boundary slowly crosses through. A warm front will generate numerous showers and thunderstorms across the Deep South on Sunday. This system will move northward on Monday as a steady rain falls across the eastern third of the nation. It will be drier in the West.

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 75 48 t 70 49 pc 65 56 r 70 47 t 60 42 pc 63 42 s 67 61 s Boston 44 39 c 56 38 pc 56 39 pc 57 42 pc 56 39 r 50 33 s 59 43 s Chicago 50 32 sh 50 31 s 55 37 pc 48 37 r 45 33 c 54 38 s 68 33 pc Cincinnati 68 37 t 55 35 pc 63 44 s 64 41 r 51 35 c 54 37 pc 64 50 pc Dallas 68 46 s 69 50 t 62 48 r 67 46 c 69 44 pc 70 52 s 79 61 s Denver 54 29 s 54 31 pc 55 29 c 51 29 c 63 37 pc 69 36 s 71 43 pc Detroit 59 33 r 48 31 pc 51 36 s 49 36 r 48 32 sh 49 34 s 65 33 pc Houston 77 53 pc 67 57 t 73 55 r 75 50 pc 72 49 pc 75 51 s 77 55 s Indianapolis 60 33 t 53 36 s 60 42 pc 58 37 r 48 34 c 55 38 s 65 48 pc Kansas City 51 32 c 59 41 s 60 43 c 58 40 sh 53 36 pc 62 43 s 76 53 s Los Angeles 68 52 pc 71 55 s 77 57 s 88 59 s 91 57 s 86 57 pc 83 64 pc Miami 84 73 pc 86 74 pc 86 75 pc 88 76 pc 89 69 t 83 63 pc 81 74 pc Nashville 72 42 t 61 42 s 69 49 c 68 42 r 56 41 c 62 41 s 66 54 s New Orleans 79 59 t 68 60 t 80 66 r 79 56 pc 69 52 pc 70 52 s 72 63 s New York City 46 42 r 62 38 pc 58 41 pc 58 44 r 62 41 c 56 36 pc 60 40 s Orlando 87 64 pc 86 66 pc 87 67 pc 88 67 pc 79 63 t 76 55 s 77 63 s Phoenix 78 57 s 77 58 s 82 60 s 89 64 s 91 65 s 90 68 s 94 69 pc San Francisco 60 49 c 63 49 pc 69 51 s 74 52 s 73 53 s 68 50 pc 72 58 pc Seattle 53 41 r 55 43 r 56 45 r 69 46 s 67 45 pc 59 41 sh 63 55 c Washington, DC 66 53 r 65 39 pc 65 43 s 59 50 r 65 41 c 58 38 pc 67 61 s Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow ﬂurries, sn-snow, i-ice.

Parking permit fee increase motion failed by SRU Council of Trustees By Kevin Squires Assistant News Editor

The parking permit fee will remain at $25 for students for Fall 2015 after the Slippery Rock University Council of Trustees failed the motion to increase the fee during their regular business meeting Friday in Room 321 of the Robert M. Smith Student Center. The council also failed motions to approve a late payment plan increase from $15 to $30, a 2 percent fee increase to the traditional dorms and R.O.C.K. apartments, a 2.75 percent increase to the meal plan fees and an applied performance music lesson fee. “I voted no on several issues involving student increases and will continue to do so. At some point I guess I have to make a stand and say I’m offended at the prices the students and the parents have to pay to send to a state-related university,” Trustee Robert Marcus said. The fee assessment for applied performance music lessons that failed was

“simply an attempt to reduce some of the 400,000 deficit [that the music department is running],” Trustee Dennis Murray said. He voted no, along with a majority of the council and the motion failed. The fee assessment would have raised $54,000 had it been approved. The council did, however, approve a 2.1 p ercent increase to the meal plan fee which is contractually obligated. A payment plan increase from $25 to $40 starting in fall 2014 was also approved as was a return check fee increase from $15 to $30 and an Ed.D in special education program. T h e O l d Un i v e r s i t y Union was approved to be transformed into a student success center, requiring approval of $16.1 million f or re n ov at i on s . A l s o approved was $1.7 million for renovations of McKay Education Building. Marcus stated that he was “required by the commonwealth” to vote yes on the motions. The memorandum of underst anding b etween

the university and Slippery Rock Student Government A s s o c i at i o n w a s a l s o approved at the meeting. Slippery Rock University President Cheryl J. Norton recognized senior dance and adaptive physical activity major Rebecca Burcher for being awarded the Syed R. Ali-Zaidi Award for Academic Excellence during the president’s report to the council. “This is the highest award given by the B oard of Governors of the PASSHE system and the first time that a Slippery Rock student has ever been honored in this way,” Norton said. The award is given in recognition of outstanding academic achievement and participation in extra- and co-curricular activities and was established by Syed R. Ali-Zaidi, a founding member of the PASSHE Board of Governors. “I’m incredibly honored to have won this award and I’m also very honored to be representing Slippery Rock University,” Burcher said.

RockOUT equality prom event welcomes SRU students of all sexual orientations for 'food, dancing and fun' By Haley Barnes Rocket Contributor

RockOUT at Slippery Rock University wants students of all sexual orientations to come to the Equality Prom. The group decided to host an equality prom which will be on Saturday, April 12, at 7:30 p.m. in the Smith Student Center Ballroom. A “Thrift Shop” theme has been chosen by the group members, but American Horror Story and The Great Gatsby were also in the running for a theme. The group wants students to come wearing thrift shop clothes. “I have attended many different events that RockOUT has hosted, like the ‘Holigay Dinner,’” Lea Bialek, sophomore communications major, said. “ The environment is so open and friendly. I cannot wait for the prom!” The prom is important to the group because all students of all sexual orientations are invited, as they want to create an open atmosphere. The group said events like these

are an important step for the LGBTQIA community in earning their rights, not just in Slippery Rock, but everywhere. Slippery Rock students must present a valid ID to attend, though they may bring guests ages eighteen and older with a valid ID. “There will be plenty of food, dancing and fun,” Bialek said. “I think everyone should come and experience this because you can just go and be yourself with no worries.” The group is very active on campus and will participating in a dodgeball event called “Knocking Out Stigma” at the Abersold Recreation Center and an “A Day of Silence” event coming up later in April too. RockOUT is SRU’s LGBTQIA group that meets every Monday at 8:00 p.m. in the Women’s Center, which is located on the second floor of the Smith Student Center. Students who attend RockOUT sign confidentiality forms to protect the identity of those involved in the group. RockOUT encourages all students of every sexual orientation to come to the meetings.

April 4, 2014

NEWS

A-3

POLICE BLOTTER Campus March 26 – Police responded to a female March 29 – Gavin Duda, 19, was arrested students having seizures at Rhodes Hall. for a drug charge when police initiated a The female was transported to Grove City traffic stop at East Lake Lot. Hospital. March 29 – A student reported her car March 26 – Residents were evacuated damaged at Lot C. The case is under from Building B following a fire alarm being investigation. activated. The alarm was set off by burnt food and residents were allowed back in. March 29 – Steam in a shower set off a fire alarm in Building F. March 26 – Police received a call for a marijuana odor. The reported person had March 29 – Clayton Kemerer, 19, was already left the area when police arrived. issued an underage citation for an alcohol violation in Building B. March 26 – A steamy shower set off the fire alarm in Building E. March 29 - Keenan Delien, 19, Eric Klebanski, 20, were issued underage March 27 – Fire alarms in the R.O.C.K. citations when police initiated a traffic stop Apartments and Building A were set off by at East Lake Lane. burnt food. March 29 – The fire alarm in Building D March 28 – Pa. State Police requested was set off by burnt food. assistance from campus police when a security guard at the University Village March 30 – Maranda Flamm, 18, and Tavita failed to answer their phone. Campus police Lio, 19,were issued underage citations after notified the state police that no one was on a traffic stop on Green and White Way. duty at the University Village at that time. March 30 - The fire alarm in Building B was March 28 – Police responded to a female set off by burnt food. student who took too much medication at Vincent Science Hall. She was transported March 30 – Samantha Kirsch, 18, Kristin to the Health Center to be checked. McCarthy, 18, Madison Stern, 18, and Sam Sikorski, 19, were issued underage citations March 28 – A sorority forget to turn off when police responded to a noise complaint the alarm at the Ski Lodge when using the in Watson Hall. facility, causing campus police to respond.

ROCK NOTES

March 30 – The Health Center requested an ambulance. The student was transported to Butler Hospital. March 31 – Nicole Fasse, 19, was issued a drug charge for smoking marijuana near the Water Tower Lot. March 31 - The fire alarm in the R.O.C.K. Apartments was set off by burnt food. March 31 – Police responded to a false emergency alarm at Eisenberg Classroom Building. April 1 – Police found an empty building when checking the Ski Lodge after an intruder alert. April 1 – Police responded to a fire alarm at Building E but remain unknown as to what caused the alarm to be triggered. April 1 – Police responded to the odor of marijuana at Building D. Contraband was seized and the case will be forwarded to the Student Conduct Office. Compiled by Kevin Squires

Ask the President

TRAILS Autism Speaks 5K Progam

If you have any questions for President Cheryl J. Norton, let The Rocket know on Facebook, Twitter, or by email. Emails can be sent to rocket. news@sru.edu. Submit on social media with #AskNorton.

April 5 is the deadline to pre-register for the 9 a.m., April 12, TRAILS Autism Speaks 5K program supporting youth with autism. Email: trails5krun@ gmail.com. The race will be at the Storm Harbor Equestrian Center.

Planetarium Shows

Academic Records Evening Hours

Planetarium shows focusing on astronomy and scientific topics will be shown weekly on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. in Vincent Science Center Planetarium. There is no cost for admission.

The Office of Academic Records and Summer School, 107 Old Main, will be open until 5 p.m. on Wednesday April 9 and Thursday April 17 to assist students with registrations and adding or dropping classes for the summer and fall.

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

OPINION

Our View

OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 96, Number 20

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 Catie Clark

Editor-in-Chief

Jon Janasik

News Editor

Rebecca Marcucci

Campus Life Editor

Kristin Karam

Sports Editor

Alex Mowrey

Photo Editor

Todd Hart

Web/Social Media Editor

Mary Leach

Copy Editor

Kevin Squires

Assistant News Editor

Stephanie Cheek

Assist. Campus Life Editor

Matthew Morgan

Assistant Sports Editor

Rebecca Dietrich

Assistant Photo Editor

LaRae Ferguson Mark Zeltner

Multimedia Reporter Faculty Adviser

ADVERTISING STAFF Karleigh Santry

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 five percent of its funding from the SGA General Service 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 e-mailing rocket.ads@sru.edu.

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.

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.

GRAPHIC BY REBECCA DIETRICH

Not all student fees cause negative impact, some worth the expense Recently, the SRU Council of Trustees voted against raising the parking permit fee for students. The cost of student parking permit will remain at $25. We think that the council, while acting on behalf of students to keep prices lower, could consider making fees higher in the future. The parking fee right now is $25 for the entire year. Certain local apartment complexes charge $50 per semester for students to park, and students willingly pay that fee. Parking shouldn’t be astronomical because of our rural campus, but raising it to $25 per semester, or $50 a year, is something that is affordable to students. An anonymous suggestion from the university’s page on budgeting suggested this, “Parking on campus is a privilege to those students who purchase a parking permit. However, we offer the cheapest parking to our

students I have ever seen (I have worked at five other universities). We could easily charge $100-$300 per semester and perhaps a few students would not make the purchase, but the revenue from that alone would be reoccurring and considerable for such an easy change.” The anonymous suggestor went on to say “I see cars with no permit or a student permit parked illegally on campus daily. Simply being diligent with officers/ticket writers working throughout each working day would certainly prove to be very profitable.” While we disagree with charging as much as $300, we agree with the idea that raising the fee a little would discourage some students that live within a walkable distance to campus from driving and taking up bona fide commuter’s spots. The council also failed

In the Quad In the Quad is a segment in which random students, faculty and staff are asked for their opinions on a specific topic.

EDITORIAL POLICY

motions to approve a late payment plan increase from $15 to $30, a 2 percent fee increase for the traditional d o r m s a n d R . O. C . K . apartments, a 2.75 percent increase to the meal plan fees and an applied performance music lesson fee. The council did, however, approve a 2.1 p ercent increase to the meal plan fee, which is contractually obligated. Even with the prop os ed 2.75 p ercent increase that the council denied, the funds that support AVI food services would be running a nearly $3,000 deficit. With even a small deficit present, we think that the council should have considered raising the fee. Ultimately, the council looks out for the expenses that have to come out of students’ pockets which we appreciate, but that shouldn’t necessarily mean all fees are bad fees.

This week’s question: The Council of Trustees declined to raise SRU’s parking fee. Do you agree with that decision?

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.

Crystal Hinnebusch Junior PR Major Pittsburgh, Pa.

Sydney Carter Junior Professional Studies Major Pittsburgh, Pa.

Aleta Bolluck Senior HSA Major Pittsburgh, Pa.

“I agree with them, we’re broke college kids.“

“I think we pay enough to attend school, why raise the parking pass price?”

“I agree because what is the purpose of raising it, we barely get parking spots as it is.”

OPINION

April 4, 2014

B-2

QUESTION OF

Shelbi Sternz @SometimesShelbs @TallGuyBill

THE WEEK

@SRURocket #opinion Get rid of the ﬂatware at food establishments. Eating with your hands builds character.

The Rocket @SRURocket

#Opinion Q of the Week: Where do you think SRU could trim the budget to save money? Also submit your ideas here: http://bit.ly/1gZbwq0

Bradley Windhorst™ @bradwindhorst @SRURocket SRU is not 100% in need of a cut, it just needs to assess it’s “materials” and “resources” before anything!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The views expressed in the “Letters to the Editor” section are those of the writer(s) alone. The Rocket cannot verify all facts presented in a given letter, but if we are aware of an error or omission, we reserve the right to include an editorial note for accuracy’s sake.

Campaign to end ‘R’ word serves as starting point toward creating accepting attitudes Spread The Word to End the Word: A Letter to the Editor In response to Vincent Scalamogna’s Commentary “Students signing petitions to end words will not evoke social change” As an advocate for individuals with disability, I would personally like to thank Vince Scalamogna for sharing his opinion on intellectual disability. His attempt to discredit “End The R-Word Day,” ultimately displays how uneducated people are about disabilities. I am grateful for the opportunity to educate those who are ignorant to the issues around them. As Scalamogna pointed out, students signing a petition to end words is not effective. End the R-Word day is not a petition, it is a nation wide movement to raise awareness of an issue that impacts approximately 6.5 million people in the United States who are diagnosed with an intellectual disability according to National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities. However according to Vince Scalamogna’s article, this population is not “noteworthy.”

As stated on R-word.org: “Our campaign asks people to pledge to stop saying the R-word as a starting point toward creating more accepting attitudes and communities for all people. Language affects attitudes and attitudes affect actions. Pledge today to use respectful, people-first language.” An R-word I would personally like to see in Vince Scalamogna’s vocabulary is ‘Respect;’ Respect for individuals with intellectual disabilities, respect for individuals advocating for those with disabilities and respect for himself. Scalamogna disrespected himself by writing an article with no facts and no credible support. It is ironic that Scalamogna would be willing to sign a petition to promote education when he could not even take the time to educate himself on a topic he chose to attack. Scalamogna’s one credible argument is that “discussing mental retardation in history” is a correct use of the terminology. However use of this terminology is only correct when discussing past medical disorders because in January 2013 U.S. Legislators wrote into law the replacement of the term “mental retardation” with “intellectual disability.”

“I have noticed no progress,” states Scalamogna when referring to fellow students’ attempts to end the use of words that offend others. If he would take the time to speak to the hundreds of other students on campus, he would realize that there is progress being made. Speak to the Therapeutic Recreation department, the Education department, the Adapted Physical Activities program or any student on campus who has a family member or a friend with a disability and you will see that as we raise awareness of an issue, we make progress. I respectfully ask Vince Scalamogna to educate himself on issues before writing articles attacking the efforts of individuals trying to evoke change. I would like to request that a retraction of Scalamogna’s article and an apology be printed in the next issue of The Rocket. I ask that everyone think before they speak and remember the biggest disability in life is a bad attitude. Respectfully signed, Amber Bowser Sophomore therapeutic recreation major and proud advocate for individuals with disability

Therapeutic Rec club educates students Columnist misses point of ‘R’ word your forte. This seems as if you campaign, serves as pledge to remove Letter to the Editor, have written it in five minutes. I am writing this in regards to the You need to do more research. If word from society’s vocabulary commentary, “Students signing you had, you would have found Letter to the Editor, I am writing in response to “Student signing petitions to end words will not evoke social change.” First of all, signing to end the use of the R-word is not a petition, but a pledge. By signing the poster, you are pledging that you will not use the words “retard” or “retarded.” The point of the pledge is not to eliminate the word from the English vocabulary, but to raise awareness for people with disabilities. Using the R-word is disrespectful to people who have a disability, as well as the people that work with them every day. End the R-word Day is not just something that happens on campus at Slippery Rock University. It is a nationwide day and people sign the pledge all over the United States. If signing a petition to end the R-word does nothing to get people to stop using the word, then why would any of the other petition ideas work? How many students go to college and plan on not graduating? Since every college student intends on graduating, having them sign a petition to promise to graduate from college will mean nothing. What makes you think that having students sign petitions to not

drive drunk, not do drugs and not be racist will actually stop students from doing these things? They won’t. The commentary talks about how political correctness is an embarrassment to America. This is just another contradiction in this article. The author wants to have a petition to end racism, but disagrees with political correctness. Ending racism would be political correctness. It is racist, offensive and not politically correct to use the N-word, so people don’t use it. I believe that the R-word should be treated the same way. The pledge to end the R-word is just to raise awareness. It is to show that using that word is offensive to many people and that together we can be more respectful to people with disabilities and include them in everything. By raising awareness, many people that I know have stopped using the R-word. I have educated my family and friends about it and now none of them use that word. The pledge is a very effective way of getting the point across and progress and change are happening.

petitions to end words will not evoke social change”. First, I want to thank you for proving the Therapeutic Recreation club’s point in “spread the word to end the word” awareness day. We are trying to not simply sign a petition as you said, but to educate people such as yourself. We have found through our research that teaching people rather than just having them sign a paper is more effective. I am assuming that you have done no research as it is not mentioned in article. The second thing I would like to thank you for is showing me how much of an advocate the Therapeutic Recreation majors are. I am relatively new to this program, and because of your careless and inconsiderate words, you have brought together many people. We have had many discussions over your thoughtless commentary. I assume you have already, and will continue to get our letters to the editor, and I’m sure you will agree. Secondly, I would like to offer Meghan Dunbar some criticism. After reading this Junior, Therapeutic Recreation Major article, I suggest you consider a new major. Journalism is just not

that the spread the word to end the word day had educated many people about why we don’t say the word. That is another thing you should have researched. We don’t say the word because of respect. It’s just simply the right thing to do. I don’t know why you don’t respect people with disabilities, but I suggest you take the Inclusive Leisure Services class to educate yourself. Finally, I would like to tell you that you have really offended a large number of this campus. I hope you know this and I think these people deserve an apology. You have ignored their feelings, thoughts, emotions, you have shown no respect for them, and I think you owe them an apology. Whether you are forced to or not, you need to write a letter to all of the students with disabilities and retract your statements made in the commentary. Educate yourself. Sincerely, Kaylee Faull Therapeutic Recreation, Adventure Fitness

Campus has plethora of opportunities to explore new things, students should take advantage

Casey Young Casey’s Corner, Consider This Casey Young is a sophomore Communication-Journalism major from Orchard Park, NY.

The American Sign Language (ASL) club presented an amazing event at the Student Center Tuesday night. Keith Wann and Wink each performed a comedy sketch in sign language, while the other interpreted. They both received many laughs throughout the show. On the way back to my room, my friend and I got to talking about how being on a college campus exposes us to so many different things. I never would have expected

to see a comedy act in sign language in my entire life. However, while attending Slippery Rock University, many of the events the school puts on are free or very cheap. After this event exceeded my expectations, I started to think about all the events that all the different departments and clubs put together for all the students and faculty. There are so many that I have probably skipped, missed, or not known about that I probably

would have loved just as much. From now on when I am walking down the halls of all the different buildings on campus, I will stop and check out the bulletin boards a little more closely. Imagine how many more opportunities will be held within the last month of this semester. Everyone on campus is always walking past the Student Center to check out the poster for the name of the movie playing that

weekend. I want to adopt a new mentality that causes me to check out all the other posters as intently as I read over the posters for the free movie series. It is amazing how one great event on campus completely incised me to want to experience more of what I am not normally accustomed to. Slippery Rock has so many clubs and a diverse set of majors, many opportunities for students to explore the unknown. Let’s explore together.

April 4, 2014

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C COMICS

Horoscopes

COMICS Spaghett Kat COLOR

By Jack Johnehsick

TUNE IN APRIL 11TH FOR A SRU 125 ANNIVERSARY CAT-RELATED SPECIAL. IT‛LL BLOW YOUR SLIPPERY ROCKS OFF. (Slippery Rocks is a play on words for “socks” in this context)

By Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency (MCT) Today's Birthday (04/04/14). Happiness shines brighter than silver this year. Compassion with community enlivens you. Education and communication skills further your career, with extra points for artists of all media. Creativity comes easy. Home is where your heart is, with family and friends. Balance work with romance over springtime, then play full out over summer. An autumn revelation provides freedom, innovation and integrity. To get the advantage, check the day's rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Best in Show

By Phil Juliano

Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is a 7 -- Prioritize talk over action. Tell imaginative stories. Entertain and inform. Reality interferes with fantasy, however. All isn't as it appears. Emotions prevail where logic fails. Cut to basics... aim for simplicity. Organize and plan who's doing what over a shared meal. Enjoy fun with friends. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 6 -- Discover a way to work smarter and earn more. Connections, communications and clever ideas win profit. Streamline procedures and routines to save time. Pay off bills before spending on frills. Put in extra work for high quality results. Dress up for a fun social event. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 6 -- A little illusion goes a long way to spark emotions. Build this for promotions. Avoid travel, big launches or transportation. More work is required. Stay where you are and increase productivity. Long-distance communication provides the info you need. Tele-conferencing saves time and money.

Brewster Rockit: Space Guy

By Tim Rickard

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Think, plan and research. Hunt for inspiration. Write, record and brainstorm. Satisfy your curiosity. Make a list of potential costs. Your skill at pinching pennies comes in handy. Avoid gambles or risk. Do your homework to meet deadlines. Be sensitive to another's view. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Enter a two-day party phase, and get involved with your community. Your friends are there for you. Hold meetings, collaborate and throw ideas around. Respectfully abandon a scheme lacking soul (or advise another to do so). Have fun while contributing for a good cause. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Consider new opportunities today and tomorrow. Trust emotion over rationality. Go with your feelings and intuition. There could be a test. Upon winning, new responsibilities raise your stature. Choose a direction that's grounded in reality, even as you aim for the stars. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Reduce speculation by announcing your plan. Today and tomorrow begin an expansion phase. Include travel and fun in the agenda. Make a promise, and put it in your schedule. Take a bold step, supported by friends. Take it slow. Get yourself a treat. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 6 -- Support a partner with financial paperwork like insurance or taxes. Every little bit counts. Consider practical details. Today and tomorrow favor financial review to save money. Make sure funds are there to cover upcoming events. A little planning goes a long way. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Partnership and negotiation take priority today and tomorrow. Consult with experts on strategy. It's easier to delegate; someone else on the team wants to be more directive. Pay attention to all offers. A caring soul has a fresh perspective on a big decision ahead. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is an 8 -- There's plenty of work... you're extra busy and things could seem hectic or intense. Rely on your schedule, and move items forward as needed. Creative ideas abound, and you're in the thick of the excitement. Take frequent deep-breathing breaks, or go for little walks. Stay frugal and focused. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 7 -- Go back to basics, and follow the rules. Abandon far-out ideas, and go for low-hanging fruit. Confer with your team. You get some good press. A barrier is dissolving, or becoming unimportant. Set long-term goals with your sweetheart today and tomorrow. Attitude is everything. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Today and tomorrow favor making household decisions and changes. You and your partner have the energy for it now. Imagine sharing your cozy home with friends and family, and clean up with that vision. Play music that makes you dance. Snuggle into your lovelier space tonight. (c)2013 bY NANCY BLACK DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Bliss

By Harry Bliss

April 4, 2014

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INSIDE SPORTS

Mr. and Ms. SRU Check out pictures from the 2014 Mr. and Ms. SRU Show by following the QR Code at left.

Softball Soars The Slippery Rock University Softball team completed a two game sweep against the Clarion Golden Eagles on Tuesday night. See Page C-2

SPORTS

ROCK TURNS TWO

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Senior Will Kengor celebrates with freshman Carson Kessler and sophomore Alex Bell after a bases-clearing triple which gave Slippery Rock a 5-2 lead in the 4th inning on Tuesday.

Green and White racks up 40 runs in doubleheader By Ryan Barlow Rocket Contributor

The Slipper y Rock baseball team dominated a double header against Clarion University Tuesday, winning game one 27-10, and game two 13-4. Team captain and All-American shortstop Will Kengor led the Rock’s offense in both games, racking up seven RBI’s in game one, and two more in game two. “Everybody really showed up and hit the ball,” Kengor said. “It’s nice when everybody comes together

like that. It’s easier on the pitchers, and it’s easier on the team when everybody contributes.” Slippery Rock had 26 total hits in game one, and actually trailed Clarion 2-1 before the offense explosion in the fourth inning. Senior Kevin Jovanovich hit a three-run homerun in the fourth, and had four RBI’s in game one. Junior Jake Nogalo and senior Graeme Zaparzynski each had three RBI’s. Freshman Carson Kessler took advantage of starting game one at first base and contributed two RBI’s. Redshirt freshman

L ogan Brow n, junior Ad am Urbania, redshirt freshman Ryan Hill, freshman Ty Zimmerman, senior Brandon Myers, and redshirt freshman Dakota Hoffman had one RBI each. Slippery Rock had 25 total RBI’s in game one, the other two runs scored were unearned by Clarion. Redshirt freshman Christian Kerns was the starting pitcher for Slippery Rock in game one, allowing seven runs through five and one thirds innings of work. Kerns gave up nine hits, struck out six, and walked three before being

replaced during sixth inning by redshirt sophomore Geoff Sanner. “I wish I could’ve pitched a little bit better, but it’s nice to know you have a nice defensive team behind you,” Sanner said after finishing the game on the mound for Slippery Rock, having thrown one and two thirds innings, and giving up two hits and allowing three runs. Senior Anthony Naso was started as pitcher for Slippery Rock in game two. After giving up an early home run to Clarion third baseman Mike SEE SRU, PAGE C-3

SRU outduels Gannon for first time By Matthew Morgan Assistant Sports Editor

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Sophomore midﬁelder Kaytlin Callaghan makes a push past a Golden Knights defender on Tuesday night.

Tuesday may have been April Fool's Day, but the joke was on the Golden Knights. The Slippery Rock University lacrosse team (4-5, 1-3 PSAC) earned their first win against Gannon University (5-5, 2-3 PSAC) ever, in a very convincing fashion by a score of 18-7 at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium. The all time series between the two is now 7-1 in favor of the Golden Knights. “We reduced our turnovers, won the ground balls and draws and had less fouls,” SRU head coach Emily Hopkins said. “We finally put everything together and came out and played 60

minutes of quality lacrosse.” The win ends a four game losing streak for SRU, the teams longest since a five game skid in 2010. Three of those losses came by only one goal. “Possession was a big component to our offensive success,” junior attacker Paige Costatino said. “The longer we have the ball, the longer the other team doesn’t. I think we also played to our strengths, which can make any team successful. SRU scored the first seven goals of the contest, taking the lead two minutes into the game and never trailing their previously undefeated foe. “We worked on possessing the ball on offense and slowing the game down while looking

for quality opportunities,” coach Hopkins said. The opportunities were plenty in the first half as SRU jumped to a 12-2 lead. The scoring for SRU slowed down in the second half as the Green and White only scored six more goals in the final 30 minutes of competition. The Golden Knights tallied five more goals in the second half. The seven goals allowed by SRU were the third lowest so far this season. Seven Rock players scored at least two goals on Tuesday night and eight players had multiple points. Costantino had three goals and one assist for a total of four SEE ROCK, PAGE C-3

SPORTS Himpele crowned Ms. SRU C-2

By Kristin Karam Sports Editor

After months of staying committed to a strict workout regimen and diet, senior Nicole Himpele took to the stage and won the title of Ms. SRU in her first bodybuilding show. Himpele, a health and physical education major minoring in sport management and leadership, learned discipline through her involvement in wrestling. “My dad was a wrestler when he attended Slippery Rock and my older brother was involved in the sport too,” Himpele said. “I grew up going to matches and tournaments and fell in love with the commitment, passion and dedication the wrestlers and their families had for the sport.” Himpele spent her high school career as a manager and scorekeeper for the Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake High School in Burnt Hills, NY. Being physically fit has always been important to Himpele and after volunteering at the Mr. and Ms. SRU Show for the past two years, she decided to take a shot at the title. “Seeing the competitors on stage really lit something up inside me that made me think ‘Hey, I could do this too”, Himpele said. “I’m such a competitive person and once I set my mind to something, that’s it. I knew I had to compete in the show.” When she first began training, Himpele was focused on becoming “worthy” enough to be on stage. As training continued and her figure began to adjust to the lifting and dieting, Himpele realized she had a real chance to place and do well. “As I grew and my training progressed, so did my expectations and mentality,” Himpele said. “By the last two months of training, my thoughts were on winning. I didn’t

want anything less because I knew I could do it.” Training for a bodybuilding show puts stress not only on the body, but on the mind. Himpele admitted that there were many ups and downs throughout the course of her training. “One minute I would feel like I was on top of the world and the next I was whining about how I hated the gym and never wanted to lift another weight in my life,” Himpele said. “I loved the healthy food and was mentally strong about eating right, but the gym was something I had to talk myself into doing every day.” Although she enjoyed the healthy food, Himpele admitted that it was hard to turn down certain foods when she’d go out to restaurants with family or friends. “I just had to keep my eye on the prize and remember why I was doing it,” Himpele said. “I never thought about stopping or giving up but there were those days where it took all I had to turn down the cake and cookies.” Himpele looked to her father, who is currently in Australia, as a mentor throughout her training process. “My dad competed in this same show in 1983 and won his weight class and his friend trained alongside him and knows all the ropes about muscles, nutrition and lifting,” Himpele said. “With those two by my side, they gave me all the advice and guidance I needed as I progressed through all the stages of training.” The strangest part of her experience was sending her progress pictures to her dad and his friends, Himpele said. “There I was, just taking selfies in barely any clothes and sending them to my dad and other people,”

Himpele said. “It was also a little strange going in for tans or waxing, but you get over that pretty fast.” Looking back on the experience, Himpele will always remember her first show. “There’s nothing like being on stage,” Himpele said. “One minute I was nervous, the next I was calm and confident, then I was excited and antsy and then back to nervous again. Everyone who had competed before told me I’d be hooked after competing once and they were exactly right.” Himpele had the support of many family and friends at the show. Her roommates came with signs and her family even managed to Skype the show so her father could see. “It was hard that he wasn’t able to be there in person,” Himpele said. “He had to stay awake for two days straight because of the time difference.” When she received the title of Ms. SRU , Himpele looked out into the crowd and saw her brother holding up the Skype screen with her dad waving and yelling on it. “There’s nothing like being out on stage and hearing people yell your name and cheer for you,” Himpele said. “I couldn’t have done it without them.” After the show was over, Himpele and her family went to Primanti’s and got a roast beef and cheese sandwich, buffalo chicken wings and chili. She also was reunited with her favorite weakness, cookies, when she got home. “I haven’t stopped eating since the show,” Himpele said. Himpele plans on competing in the show next Spring as well and is excited to work towards new goals.

April 4, 2014

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Senior Nicole Himpele strikes a pose to show off her physique during the Mr. and Ms. SRU Show on Sunday.

SRU offense explodes, Softball soars above Clarion pitching stellar in wins By Brian Hepﬁnger Rocket Contributor

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Senior Will Kengor singles up the middle to kickstart the Rock's offense on Tuesday. Kengor hit 5 for 6 (.833) with 7 RBI's and scored four runs.

Continued from Page C 1

Lockhart, Naso settled down and did not allow another run until the sixth inning, where he was unable to get anybody out after facing three batters and giving up two more runs. Naso’s final line showed five complete innings of work, allowing four runs on seven hits, walking one and striking out six. Senior John Kovalik entered the game to replace Naso during the sixth inning, and stayed in for the remainder of the game. Kovalik got out of the sixth inning without allowing any more Clarion base runners to score, and earned his fifth save of the season. “It’s very nice when we can have a breakout game like that offensively,” head coach Jeff Messer said. “We’re not going to take anything for granted. It’s been a good six games, but that’s all it was. We still have 18 games to go and we have to be ready.” Slippery Rock will play a four game series this weekend against Gannon University (6-18, 2-8 PSAC). The Golden Knights are currently enduring a seven game losing streak while SRU looks to continue their seven game winning streak. Games one and two will be played at Slippery Rock’s Jack Critchfield Park on Friday before the series heads north to Erie on Saturday. Game one in Slippery Rock is set to start at 1 pm, and game two is estimated start around 3 p.m.

Led by underclassmen, the Slippery Rock University softball team (7-10, 3-1 PSAC) swept a doubleheader against the Clarion University Golden Eagles (1-10, 0-4 PSAC) on Tuesday. SRU won the first game 4-3, but it took a complete game from senior pitcher Emily Lobdell to obtain the victory. Lobdell had six strikeouts, and allowed seven hits, five walks, and three runs. Clarion’s junior pitcher Shawnna Crago allowed one hit through five innings, but SRU began their scoring in the sixth inning. Sophomore third basemen Ashley Samluk got things going by being walked, and then advancing to second base off of a sacrifice bunt from senior first basemen Breanna Tongel. Freshman catcher McKenzie Popatak hit an RBI single to allow Samluk to score. Junior outfielder Haley Sherer then came in to pinch-run for Popatak. Sherer scored after sophomore infielder Katie Kaiser hit a single to right field. The scoring continued with Kaiser eventually scoring off of a bases loaded walk from sophomore outfielder Megan Maloney. The scoring and inning ended with junior infielder Taylor Welch scoring off a bunt from freshman outfielder Eliza Sykes. Clarion started a comeback in the top of the seventh inning, beginning with two walks and two singles. S o p h o m o r e c e nt e r f i e l d e r K ay l a Henderson and freshman pitcher Paige Baker both scored. However, Lobdell closed out Clarion with a pop up to shortstop to end the game. The freshman for the Rock have really stepped up this season, and their teammates recognize that. “Mackenzie (Popatak) and Eliza (Sykes) have contributed big time to the team’s success,” Tongel said. “They have been clutch on offense by getting those key hits when we need them, and they’ve also been strong defensively.” Kaiser echoed Tongel’s comments, saying that the team’s freshman have showed a lot

of promise thus far. “The team has gained a lot of confidence in them because of their successes and contributions so far this season,” Kaiser said. “This is so important, especially when they play positions like pitcher, catcher, and center field.” The Rock won the second game of the doubleheader 3-1. Once again, SRU was led by Popatak and Kaiser. In the second inning, Popatak singled to center field. She was hit home by Kaiser, who hit a double and advanced to third. In the third inning, Maloney was the first to reach home for the Rock. She began the inning by reaching first base off of a bunt and error by Clarion’s third basemen. She advanced to second base after Sykes singled to left field. After Tongel reached first base off of a walk, Popatak singled, allowing Tongel to advance to second base, and Sykes and Maloney to score. Clarion scored its only run of the game in the fourth inning when Henderson reached home off of a groundout to the shortstop. “I’d like to commend our pitchers, because they both pitched very well,” Kaiser said. “We also hit runners in when we needed to, which we didn’t do well against Seton Hill.” Freshman pitcher Carly DeRose pitched a complete seven innings for SRU giving up three hits, one run, one walk and struck out five batters. “I’d like to commend our pitchers, because they both pitched very well,” Kaiser said. “We also hit runners in when we needed to, which we didn’t do well against Seton Hill.” After splitting its doubleheader last week with Seton Hill University, the Green and White stayed on track with the two wins against Clarion. “We all know that the Rock does not lose to Clarion, so we had to find a way to win,” Tongel said. “We did just that with both wins, even though the games were a little closer than we wanted.” The Rock’s next doubleheader will be against Indiana University of Pennsylvania (10-4, 4-0 PSAC) Friday at home. The first game of the doubleheader is scheduled to start at 2:30 pm.

SPORTS

April 4, 2014

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Crimson Hawks sink talons into Rock Rock readies for Huskies By Brittany Fagan Rocket Contributor

The Slipper y Rock women’s tennis team (99, 2-2 PSAC) had a busy past few days out on the courts. The ladies faced division rivals Indiana University of Pennsy lvania (11-5, 4-0 PSAC) on the home c o u r t s We d n e s d a y evening where they were defeated 7-2. The Rock played three doubles teams and six singles teams. Senior Nikolina Grbac was teamed with senior Sarah Joumond for the first doubles team and senior Lauren Coggins and freshman Kylee Woodman made up the second team. Sophomore Courtney Gallagher and freshman Stephanie Fortier made up the final doubles team. The third doubles team was the only Slippery Rock doubles team to contribute to the final match score against IUP. “We definitely faced a tough team on Wednesday,” head coach Matthew Meredith said. “Everyone brought their best efforts to the court and it really showed at the end of the match.” The Rock’s doubles teams faced tougher competition in this

match but they’re still looking to improve and score more. The six girls in the doubles teams also played singles against the Crimson Hawks. Sarah Joumond won her singles with scores of 4-6, 6-4 and 102. Stephanie Fortier displayed her dedication to the game by completing her singles match while immersed in frustration from pain in her lower back. The ladies all stood by and cheered for Fortier as she finished her game. N i k o l i n a G r b a c ’s winning streak in singles was ended on Wednesday when she lost her match to a competitive Indiana player. Her current spring record stands at 10-3 where her last loss took place on February 23 against St. Bonaventure. “My season has been going very good so far. I started a little shaky with my first few matches at the beginning of the season, but I played and won many good matches since, which gave me a lot of confidence,” Grbac said. “For right now, I will take one match at a time, have fun with it, play good and smart, and I hope good results and more wins will come.” The ladies also have two recent wins under their belts from both

Clarion and Edinboro on Monday afternoon. The Rock traveled to Clarion University to finish a match that was postponed due to inclement weather. There they defeated the Crimson Hawks 6-0. After this match the team traveled back to Slippery Rock where they faced Edinboro University on the outdoor courts. SRU defe ate d t he F i g ht i ng S c ot s 5 - 4 making it their second win in the conference. C oach Meredith mentioned that this was his first time ever having an away and home match all in one day. “It's always challenging to go out and play two matches in one day, but as a team we were mentally and physically ready for a long day at the courts,” Grbac said. With unpredictable weather this spring, the team is prepared to handle what comes along with it. The Green and White will host NCAA Division II Atlantic Region rival West Virginia State (125, 7-0 Atlantic) at noon on Saturday followed by region rival Charleston in an 11 a.m. match on Sunday. The Yellow Jackets are currently riding a five game losing streak coming into the match against SRU.

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Junior attacker Paige Costatino makes a charge towards the Gannon zone. Costatino ﬁnished Tuesday's game with four points from three goals and one assist for SRU.

Continued from Page C 1

points, as did junior attacker Jess Verbic. Senior attacker Morgan Pettit had four points as well with two goals and two assists. “I hope to continue to be there for my team and be someone who is reliable and dependable,” Costantino said.” I also want to help out my teammates more by assisting their goals because that was one of my individual goals for the season.” Two Slippery Rock players totaled three points on Tuesday night. Junior midfielder Katie Cook scored three goals for SRU for a total of three points and sophomore midfielder Kaytlin Callaghan scored two goals and handed out an assist. Three SRU players finished the game with two points. Sophomore attacker Anna-Marie Warrington and sophomore midfielder Erin Wilcox each scored two goals while freshman attacker Caitlynn Palladino added a

goal and an assist. Sophomore Jordan Wagner started in net for SRU allowing only seven goals with eight saves. The Golden Knights were led by senior midfielder Kimberly Neagle and her two goal, two-assist performance. Freshman attacker Tessa Mitchell and senior midfielder Christie Valentine each contributed one goal and two assists in the losing effort by Gannon. Slippery Rock will face their third nationally ranked opponenet of the season on Saturday when they welcome the Bloomsburg University Huskies (5-3, 4-1 PSAC). The Huskies are ranked 15th in the nation. “We are really looking for the chance to knock off a nationally ranked team and we are looking forward to obtaining another conference win in our pursuit of the PSAC playoffs,” coach Hopkins said. The match between SRU and Bloomsburg will begin around 1 p.m. at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium.

Monday, April 7th, 2014 Thursday, April 17th, 2014

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April 4, 2014

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Email: summer.school@sru.edu Phone: 724.738.2010

â&#x20AC;˘ Choose from 250 courses! â&#x20AC;˘ Boost your grade-point average! â&#x20AC;˘ Lighten your fall course load! â&#x20AC;˘ Study abroad; earn credits! â&#x20AC;˘ Summer internships! â&#x20AC;˘ Pay 2013â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2014 tuition rates! â&#x20AC;Śand more

WHY NOT ENROLL IN ONE OF THESE SRU ONLINE LIBERAL STUDIES COURSES THIS SUMMER?

Slippery Rock University â&#x20AC;˘ More than 225 classes â&#x20AC;˘ More than 150 classes online â&#x20AC;˘ Undergraduate tuition for PA residents: $276/credit + fees â&#x20AC;˘ Five Sessions

WHY ATTEND SUMMER SCHOOL?

â&#x20AC;˘ Earn credits and/or raise your SRU GPA to maintain your academic progress for ďŹ nancial aid. â&#x20AC;˘ Take courses before tuition rates increase in the fall. â&#x20AC;˘ No room and board fees. â&#x20AC;˘ Online courses may be taken from your home allowing you to keep your summer job.

To view information on summer school and the summer class schedule: www.sru.edu/summer

SUMMER 2014 ONLINE LIBERAL STUDIES COURSES* PRE-SESSION MAY 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MAY 30

QUESTIONS?

Intro to Chemistry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CHEM 104 Public Speaking â&#x20AC;&#x201C; COMM 200 Intercultural Communication â&#x20AC;&#x201C; COMM 217 Mass Media and Society â&#x20AC;&#x201C; COMM 362 College Writing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 102 Interpreting Literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 210 World Literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 263 Sel Top: Trickster Mythology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 298 Discover Geography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GES 100 International Health â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HLTH 311 Wellness through Movement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PE342 Concepts of Science w/Lab â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PHYS 101 American National Govâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t â&#x20AC;&#x201C; POLS 101 The Political Film â&#x20AC;&#x201C; POLS 333 Personal Financial Planning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 100

SUMMER SESSION I JUNE 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JUNE 27

Intro to Chemistry I â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CHEM 104 Communication Concepts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; COMM 110 Public Speaking â&#x20AC;&#x201C; COMM 200 Computer Concepts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CPSC 110 Productivity Software â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CPSC 210 Intro to Criminology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CRIM 110 Crime, Justice & Society â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CRIM 333 Principles of Macroeconomics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ECON 201 Principles of Microeconomics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ECON202 College Writing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 102 Interpreting Literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 210 Film Analysis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 214 Sel Top: Apocalyptic Literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 298 Physical Geology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EGEO 101 Oceanography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EGEO 131 World Regional Geography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GES 105

www.SRU.edu A member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education

Environ Problems â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GES 135 U.S. and Canada â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GES 202 International Health â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HLTH 311 Human Sexuality â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HLTH316 U.S. History Since 1920 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HIST 203 Medical/Hlth Care Ethics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PHIL 325 Business Ethics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PHIL 326 Personal Financial Planning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 100 Race and Ethnic Diversity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 106 Cult Area Studies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Samurai Film â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 310 Stats for Social Sciences â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 317 Fraud â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF351 Law and Ethics in Workplace â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 352 Developmental Psychology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PSYC 344 Intro to Safety â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SAFE 118 Human Diversity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SOWK 105 Intro to Theatre â&#x20AC;&#x201C; THEA 141

SUMMER SESSION II JUNE 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JULY 28

Beginning Algebra â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ACSD 110 Intro to Chemistry I- CHEM 104 Interpreting Literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 210 Sel Top: Graphic Novel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ENGL 298 Environmental Geology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EGEO 100 Physical Geology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EGEO 101 Discover Geography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GES 100 United States 1815-1920 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HIST 202 Business Ethics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PHIL 326 Race and Ethnic Diversity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 106 Fraud â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 351 Issues in Asia: Wmn in Asian Soc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PROF 360 Human Diversity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SOWK105 Frederick Douglass: Soc & Just Eq â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SOWK 230 *Subject to change

THE COMPLETE SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE IS NOW AVAILABLE AT: WWW.SRU.EDU/MCS OR Students should check their MySRU accounts for registration information and assigned registration dates and times.

#8027 2-2014

COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY

Enroll now for CCAC summer courses Complete core requirements during your summer break.

Classes start: .

ccac.edu

INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE

Kimye on Vogue magazine? ROCK'n Fashion's Katie Ellis discusses the controversy associated with Vogue's upcoming cover with Kim Kardashian and Kanye West.

CAMPUS LIFE

Bon appétit! Stephanie Cheek reviews Italian eatery Natili North on North Main Street in Butler in this week's Pinch Me: I Must Be Eating.

See Page D-2

American Sign Language

comedians illustrate immersion into the deaf community By Rebecca Marcucci Campus Life Editor

During the course of his childhood in the 70s, his face was glued to his television set studying the art of comedy from Richard Pryor, Steve Martin, Bob Newhart and countless others. From watching the comedy greats, soon Keith Wann began performing stand-up routines on his own. Though Wann admit he needed to watch his comedy heroes ever so carefully, he explained. Wann grew up as a CODA, or child of a deaf adult. Both of Wann’s parents are deaf. He laughed to himself as he remembered the days before closed captioning when he was watching TV. “I would be watching Richard Pryor on TV and my mom would stop to sign, ‘What is that man saying?’ as she would try to read his lips and I said, ‘Mom he’s saying mother, father deaf.’ (in place of an expletive) and she would say to me, ‘Oh! You should go clean your “mother father” room,” Wann said. Keith Wann and comedy partner Windell “Wink” Smith Jr., also a CODA comedian, were welcomed to SRU Wednesday evening in the Smith Student Center Ballroom by SRU’s American Sign Language Club. Wink heated up the stage as Wann voiced his partner’s signed ASL stand-up routine. Wink explained to the audience that his father is ‘a militant ASL user’ and it would infuriate him to see people using SEE (Signed Exact English). ASL is a recognized language and prevalently used in the deaf community. It’s a large contributor to deaf identity, Wink explained. He joked about taking a job as an interpreter for deaf videophones and hanging up on people until he was connected with his father. Once he was connected with his father he would purposefully speak in SEE to infuriate him. Wink and his father would frequently play pranks on each other. Before his family purchased a videophone, Wink’s father would loudly wake him from his sleep clanging two pots together. Once Wink sprung from his bed his father would reply, “Oh good, you’re still hearing. I want you to call these people for me, but you might want to change your underwear first.” In addition to his career as a CODA comedian, Wink is the CEO of his own company called Winkshop,

Inc. He purchases ASL textbooks for universities and classrooms as well as performing, presenting, and interpreting in ASL. “I’m a total introvert,” Wink confessed. “But when I hit the stage it’s the exact opposite. I become a complete extrovert.” Wink said this is also the case in the deaf community. He is very socially involved while performing on stage and talking to deaf individuals. Otherwise he admits to being the guy to awkwardly stand in the corner, he said. Wink is 26 years old and remembers meeting Wann while he was performing a drama about his deaf parents. “The show was pretty serious but it had comedic parts,” he said. “Keith suggested that take bits of the comedy from my performance and turn it into stand-up.” The two performed in Vegas four years ago, Wink said and have become comedic partners ever since. Wann and Keith also performed in a deaf improv show together called “Whose Sign Is It Anyway?” His journey through comedy and ASL has led him to where he is now but Wann distinctly remembers his roots, he explained. “I grew up in Oakland, California in the ‘70s,” he said. He is now 45 years old. “Before closed captioning I would interpret TV for my parents. Then the deaf community was a buzz when shows like Laverne and Shirley and Dynasty became closed captioned. Everyone was talking about that.” Keith said he never minded signing for his parents. In fact, he enjoyed it. Wann explained through his comedy that the deaf community is a very unique group of people. They are proud of who they are and do not see themselves as broken. They will drive with their legs while signing with passengers. With Wann and Wink’s families, practical jokes with their CODAs were always a good time, they also added. When it came to advice for being a skilled ASL communicator Keith adamantly suggested, “Please do not learn Signed Exact English,” he exclaimed. “ASL is a very different language. It’s very conceptual. The best way to learn it is through interaction from a gaggle of deaf people.”

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET (Above) American Sign Language performing CODA comedian Keith Wann and Windell "Wink" Smith Jr. (below) performed their stand-up routine as junior mathematics major Nathaniel Sofranko, 21 volunteered to assist them.

Broadway Cabaret: a SRU musical tradition By Stephanie Cheek Assistant Campus Life Editor

How many theatre productions exist where the audience can see musical numbers such as “Greased Lightning” from Grease, “Footloose” from Footloose, and “OMIGod You Guys” from Legally Blonde? These were only three of the many musical numbers performed at this Spring’s Broadway Cabaret. It has been an annual tradition in the past four years that the Musical Theatre Society, an SRU organization on campus, holds four Cabaret shows throughout the year as their fundraisers, explained the president of the Musical Theatre Society, Ryan Lubin, 21, a senior secondary English education major. The first Cabaret was put into production as a fundraiser, but due to the popularity and the constant

selling out of tickets, the tradition continues. According to Lubin, the new schedule for the future Cabaret shows is one traditional Broadway Cabaret in the beginning of fall semester, a full Broadway musical before Winter Break, another traditional Broadway Cabaret in the beginning of the Spring semester, and lastly a themed contemporary performance Cabaret towards the end of the year. Most members of the Musical Theatre Society were looking for an outlet to perform and be apart of musical theatre on SRU’s campus, explained Lubin. SRU’s theatre department only puts on a musical once every two years, but the majority of their productions is just theatre. “The Cabarets are all student run from the orchestra, the performers, the creative team, and the backstage crew,” Lubin explained. According to Ryan, the interest in the organization and more importantly the Cabaret has increased

membership from 20 individuals to a high of 70 participants. “To be part of the Musical Theatre Society does not mean that you have to be a performer, but we need stage crew, costume designers, members of the pit orchestra, and many other people who help make the show memorable,” Lubin explained. There are no adults that directly help with the shows and the organization, but the music and theatre society do help by allowing the Society to use their equipment and the locations. “We couldn’t have a society without members,” said Jessica Ann Patterson, 21, a junior music therapy major and the director of this semester’s Broadway Cabaret. Some of her job requirements include making sure the show goes as smoothly as possible when it SEE CABARET, PAGE D-2

CAMPUS LIFE

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April 4, 2014

Kim and Kanye to grace cover of Vogue magazine?

Katie Ellis "ROCK'n Fashion" Katie Ellis is a junior journalism major and a regular contributor to The Rocket.

Recognized around the world as the “fashion bible”, Vogue is known for setting trends, making headlines, and being the foremost authority on the happenings of the fashion industry. Its storied legacy began in the United States in December 1892 and still remains strong in April 2014, as it has since expanded to countries throughout the world like Italy and the United Kingdom. Over the years Vogue’s covers have been celebrated and criticized by fans and industry insiders, the most recent of which features Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. Their cover wouldn’t have been possible without the stars that came before them that have fueled controversy and impacted sales figures. Throughout its 122 year history, there have been many editors of Vogue, but no one has made as much of an impact on the magazine’s legacy than Anna Wintour. The famed editor began her reign 26 years ago and has been responsible for the best and worst covers in recent memory. Her first cover in November

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

1988 was a celebration of firsts for both Wintour and the magazine. Michaela Bercu was the first Israeli woman to be featured on the cover, and was the first model to wear jeans, although a high fashion spin was put on the lowkey pants, as they were paired with a beaded couture top designed by Christian Lacroix. Bercu’s beauty look was also a move in a more modern direction, with her beachy sun-kissed waves and minimal makeup. Four years later the supermodel era was in full force on the 100th anniversary issue in April 1992, which featured 10 of the world’s top models dressed in matching white outfits against a backdrop and props of the same color. Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Christy Turlington are just three of the high profile women to be featured on Vogue’s cover during the height of their careers. This

issue still holds the title of the bestselling cover of all time. Just five men have ever graced the cover of Vogue, with two of these issues receiving negative reviews in the form of public opinion and in sales figures. LeBron James became the first African-American man to be on the magazine’s cover when he appeared alongside Gisele Bündchen in April 2008 as part of the “Shape Issue”, showcasing the best bodies in sports and fashion. James’ pose and facial expression were criticized as aggressive, and evoked a racial stereotype. Ryan Lochte’s June 2012 cover with fellow Olympians Hope Solo and Serena Williams was the publication’s worst-selling issue of the year. Only 202,000 copies were sold, even during the buildup of coverage leading to the start of the London Olympics that August. All of these covers have lead up to Vogue’s latest April issue featuring the “#worldsmosttalkedaboutcouple”. Speculation about why and how the Kimye cover came to be has been running wild ever since shots from their photo shoot became public. It’s no secret that West has been verbal about his desire to see Kardashian on the cover of Vogue for months, even going as far as to say in an interview with Ryan Seacrest that she’s the “most intriguing woman right now”. Some media outlets also reported that he had begged Wintour to put Kardashian on the magazine’s cover, a tall-tale that was finally put to rest by the editor herself. Despite being given the seal of approval by Wintour and the Vogue staff, many people have

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

been in uproar about their decision to feature a reality star and a rapper on their cover. A boycott has been threatened, standards have been questioned, and subscriptions have been cancelled by many of the magazine’s fans. A number of parody covers have been released, mocking the couple’s couture cover. James Franco released a photoshopped picture of himself and Seth Rogen as the duo on his Twitter account, which recently received over 230,000 retweets. Kermit and Miss Piggy also got in on the action with their cover of the fictitious “Vague” magazine. Now that Kardashian and West’s buzzed about cover has hit newsstands, the world will be waiting for sales figures to see whether or not the cover was a hit or miss with Vogue’s opinionated audience.

Natili Nor th: a Classic Italian Dive Cabaret sells out Swope Recital Hall Continued from Page D 1

Stephanie Cheek "Pinch Me, I Must Be Eating " Walking around downtown Butler, the town is rustic, full of history, and at times in need of a new coat of paint. This town is the perfect location for this little dive, Natili North, whose food is rustic, delicious, and taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Wa l k i ng i nt o t h e It a l i an restaurant you first notice the small space and the worn down booths and tables, which can at first can be a little off putting, but the servers and food quickly make up for the décor. The menu is diverse ranging from salads, stir-fry, sub sandwiches, and classics such as chicken and eggplant Parmesan. There are three separate restaurants all owned by the same group of people, Natili South, Natili North, and Natili Pizza Shoppe, all three have different menus and different atmospheres throughout out Butler. One of the more unique menu items on the Natili North’s menu was their list of Wedgas. Wedgas are described as “open face seasoned dough” that is topped with a variety of toppings. I ordered the meatball Wedga and when it came it resembled a pizza, but the dough was the texture of pita bread. The meatballs were homemade and the portion was the perfect amount for a quick lunch. While this may sound like an odd combination, it tasted delicious. The Wedgas on the menu where simplistic in their recipe but put a unique twist on

classic Italian cuisine, like pizza and calzones. Natili North is open for breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner, making it the perfect place to eat at any time of day. Their menu not only has a great variety of food options, but the service is great, especially if you are a regular customer. I was new to the establishment, and they were willing to answer all my questions, but while I was waiting for my food I saw regular customers walk through the door. Each customer was greeted by name, escorted to their favorite booth or table, and asked if they want their usual order. It was a small town establishment that focused mainly on the customers. Overall this is a great family establishment that is well known throughout the downtown Butler community and it is worth a trip if you are in the area. Looking at the pictures online and even walking through the front door, you would be tempted to just turn the other direction, but take a chance on this small town dive that has a menu item for every person.

EMILY FORLOINES/THE ROCKET Senior secondary English education major Ryan Lubin, 21, with arms spread wide, embraced the emotion behind his song "I Am What I Am" from Le Cage Aux Folles.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

comes to lightning, casting, the mics, and costumes, explained Patterson. Patterson explained that she also had a creative team that helps put the show together in every aspect, including casting. “The group song are chosen before the auditions, and we see if their voices match the songs, but solos are based on the auditions and what the performers bring to the table,” Patterson said. Performing is only one aspect of being part of the Musical Theatre Society, but it becomes about creating connections with other students that have the same interests.

“We see each other when doing a show every night, so we become good friends,” Patterson stated. Also Patterson stated that the Musical Theatre Society and the Cabaret helped students COME OUT their shells and become more confident performers and students. In the end, the Cabaret has become part of the SRU tradition and according to Lubin they are planning on continuing for years to come. “We are proud of the students incredibly, and we have got to the point where we are selling out Swope Recital Hall nine times out of ten,” Lubin said.

CAMPUS LIFE

April 4, 2014

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Aspiring SRU entrepreneurs "Rock the Boat" By Amber Cannon Rocket Contributor

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Business professor Dr. John Golden helped students focus their business idea proposals at the Elevator Pitch Competition for the entrepreneurial contest "Rock the Boat". The winner will be announced April 16.

Eve r y b o dy d re ams of being an inventor or running a business at some point in their life. There are many people aspiring to be

the next Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, or Vera Wang. What if you could actually make those dreams into a reality? Being an entrepreneur

takes a lot of hard work and involves several steps to get your product out into the real world. The Slippery Rock University Rock the Boat: Elevator P i t c h C o mp e t i t i o n , hosted by the SRU Sustainable Enterprise Accelerator, is giving student the steps and guidance that they need to make their dreams a reality. The Elevator Pitch C omp e t it i on g r a nt s opportunities for students hoping to become young entrepreneurs. Their ideas for a new business pitch or product are presented to a panel of judges to win some cash prizes. While the money is nice, the real prize for students is gaining the skills they need to make it in the competitive entrepreneur field. Several students have submitted applications to be entered into the competition, some also having partners. Among many of the applicants is senior business m a n a g e m e nt m aj or, Caitlin O’Neil. O’Neil, 22, has been impress e d wit h t he business side of things and how products are made and sold ever since she came to Slippery Rock, so being a part of this competition is beneficial to her, she said. “ I ’m a b u s i n e s s

management major, so running my own business has been something that has always been in the back of my mind,” she said. “So, one day, my friend and I were tossing around ideas about our own potential business and then we saw the flyer for this elevator pitch competition and it seemed like something that we would both be interested in doing.” O’Neil explained that the competition is for all majors, not just business management students. “It’s for all majors and it can benefit everyone. Building a product or a business from scratch calls for different types of skills. It calls for math skills, communication skills, critical thinking skills, etc. If they have this competition again I definitely think that more people should get involved,” she said. “It’s also very fun. It could be a little stress reliever to some students who are stressing out about the last few weeks of class.” Cash prizes are awarded to the students who present the best pitch ideas to the panel of judges. $1,000 is awarded to the first place winner, $500 is awarded for second place and $250 is awarded for third place. O’Neil explained how much the money would means to her if she wins.

“If my partner and I win the money, we are definitely going to take some of the money and donate to the Rock C at h ol i c c e nte r on campus because we’re both involved,” she said. In addition to donating to the Rock Catholic center, O’Neil plans to put the rest of the money in a savings account to invest for when she has the chance to start her business after she graduates. Although O’Neil has her eye on the prize, she admits that she has no clue who is going to win. She believes that she stands a good chance, but she also believes that there are people in the competition that are equally as passionate as her. Although nobody else knows the ideas of others, everyone feels the tension, causing them to be on their toes. “I hope I win. I think I stand just as good of a chance as anyone else,” she said. “You also never know what the judges are looking for. Someone can have a great product, but could be nervous about public speaking. Or someone could have a not so good product, but their pitch was great. It all really depends.” The winner of the Rock the Boat competition will be announced on April 16 at 7 p.m.

WATCH EACH OTHER’S BACKS!

89% of SRU students stay with the same group of friends the entire time they are drinking! *Data from ACHA-NCHA survey, April 2013, 1,140 students participated* For more information please visit: www.sru.edu/healthservices

Funded by a grant through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. Remember: It is illegal to consume alcoholic beverages under the age of 21 in the state of PA. FACTS!

April 4, 2014

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