The Rocket 04-18-2014

Color the Rock Hosted at SRU SRU UPB sponsored their first ever Color the Rock 5K run.

300 student runners participated in the event.

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Friday April 18, 2014 • Volume 97, Issue Number 22 • Slippery Rock University's Student Newspaper

the rocket

www.theonlinerocket.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Miller shutdown relocates departments

NEWS

SRU Email Update Underway With Office 365 coming to SRU, Information Administrative Technology Services explain the new benefits.

Page A-2

OPINION

Online Classes Are Inferior Online-only classes raise concerns of cheating and misunderstanding among students.

Page B-1

SPORTS

Softball Splits With Mercyhurst The SRU softball team split Thursday night's series against Mercyhurst with a 9-8 win in game two.

Page C-3

HALEY BARNES/THE ROCKET

Theatre faculty member Rebecca Morrice, Art major Emily Smith and Public Relations major Lexi Caccese work on costumes in the basement of the University Union, because Miller Auditorium is closed. Renovations of the auditorium have recently been delayed.

By Rachel Konieczny Rocket Contributor

CAMPUS LIFE

Breaking Bad Star Arrives "Breaking Bad" and "Switched at Birth" star RJ Mitte spoke to students about the stigma surrounding disabilities.

Page D-3

Kaleidoscope Kicks Off At SRU The 13th Annual Kaleidoscope Arts Festival kicked off with the SRU theatre department's adaptation of "Electra" written

by Dr. David Skeele. The show is set to be performed in Scotland.

Page C-1

The $24.6 million construction plan for the Performing Arts Center, replacing Miller Auditorium, was reassessed and under review by the Slippery Rock University Council of Trustees. Due to a decline in enrollment and Commonwealth funding, the university is re-examining all campus expenditures, according to the last Council of Trustees meeting agenda.

The renovations were planned to begin in Aug., but in Feb. it was announced that the plans were being reconsidered in order to come up with a new plan that would be more cost-effective but still offer services for the Dance and Theatre Departments, Urusla Payne, chairperson of the dance department explained. The renovation changes will save $4.6 million in comparison to building the Performing Arts Complex.

“This whole project started in 2004,” Rita Abent, the Executive Director for Slippery Rock University Public Relations said. “The world has changed, just think about how our budget has changed from 10 years to now. It’s

prudent for any organization to make absolutely sure that you’re meeting all the program needs before you put the shovel in the ground. I think that’s what the Council of Trustees has asked the president and staff to evaluate.”

“I don’t know that there’s been a firm time-table, but I think there’s some effort to make that decision as soon as possible,” Abent said.

Abent stated that there has been no discussion about completely canceling the construction.

Dr. David Skeele, professor of theatre, was indifferent towards recent announcements of the cancellation of intended reconstruction plans.

“I think there’s a good chance that the university will come up with facilities that will serve us well,” Skeele stated.

Until the Miller Auditorium renovations are complete, the Dance Department will have to hold their SRU Faculty and Guest Artist Dance Concerts in Butler County Community College because accreditation of the concert requires professional lighting that is not available on Slippery Rock campus. The Theatre Department has been performing their shows at the University Union in the Multi-Purpose Room.

Public Speaking as online course deemed 'flawed'

By Jonathan Janasik News Editor

Slippery Rock University's increased use of online courses has sparked debate from members of the university.

SRU Communication professor Dr. James Laux explained that he thinks distance education can work for certain classes, but not others.

“I think there are subject matter which is well-suited for an online format if it is being presented effectively,” Laux said. “It’s contingent on the skills of the instructor.

Given someone who is skilled working in that format and the motivation and mentality of the learner, then it can work especially with the right subject matter.”

“I think that given our current technology, you just can’t get the same level of instruction [in some courses],” Laux said. “A notable example of that from my standpoint would be Public Speaking. I honestly believe that in no way shape or form that you can have the same qualitative experience in a public speaking class online.

Laux stated that he could make a lot of money by teaching Public Speaking online over the summer and winter semesters but he refuses to because he personally thinks that students do not gain the experience that they should be getting from the class.

According to Laux, some online public speaking classes require 10 audience members to be present during the recording of a speech, but there is no standard requirement for an audience between different public speaking classes. Laux stated that even with the potential viewer requirement, it is still not the same experience as speaking in front of a class.

“I don’t think that me lining up 10 of my inebriated friends in my residence hall or apartment constitutes an audience in the same sense that it does in a classroom situation," Laux said. "The immediacy and type of feedback that’s available to be given are not equal.”

Laux did not believe that standardization was the means that could improve online classes.

“Some of this is polishing off the edges

when it is fundamentally flawed,” Laux said.

“There’s no sense in polishing up a diamond that has significant flaws because when you get done with your effort you have a flawed diamond. That to me is like the 10 person requirement. It’s that the whole model is flawed.”

Brian Danielson, director of SRU's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Educational Technology, argued that Public Speaking is an effective online course.

“If a teacher is excited about teaching and you have students that want to learn, I don’t care what the modality is, it will happen,” Danielson explained. “So, I absolutely think that public speaking can happen online. One of the requirements of public speaking is that you have to speak in front of a crowd.”

“Distance education is perfect for that, because you’re out in the world. You’ve got your church, you’ve got your rotary club, and you’ve got the whole world as your audience.

Just go find a place to do it as opposed to a SEE SUBSTITUTIONS, PAGE A-2

NEWS

A-2 7-DAY FORECAST FOR SLIPPERY ROCK FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Increasing cloudiness

Mostly sunny

Times of clouds and sun

Periods of sun

Mostly cloudy, showers around

Partial sunshine

Partly sunny and warmer

62°

38°

58°

33°

67°

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 62 39 pc 55 37 c 58 38 pc 58 38 sh 56 35 sh 58 40 c 57 39 pc 56 39 pc 55 44 c 64 44 pc 56 37 pc 58 40 pc 64 43 pc 58 35 pc 62 37 pc

Saturday HI LO W 59 35 s 66 36 s 60 34 s 53 34 s 48 35 s 67 38 s 58 34 s 56 36 s 67 43 s 64 38 s 61 33 s 64 36 s 62 38 s 61 34 s 56 32 s

68°

47°

45°

67°

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 69 46 pc 67 37 pc 64 38 pc 66 46 pc 62 43 pc 65 40 pc 68 41 pc 63 42 pc 66 45 pc 70 44 pc 65 35 pc 65 42 pc 71 45 pc 67 38 pc 67 42 pc

Monday HI LO W 69 49 pc 67 44 pc 70 44 pc 67 50 pc 59 46 pc 70 45 pc 70 46 pc 67 46 pc 69 49 pc 72 49 pc 68 42 pc 70 47 pc 71 50 pc 70 44 pc 68 47 pc

Tuesday HI LO W 67 44 c 67 46 c 66 45 sh 63 44 pc 60 42 c 69 47 c 66 45 sh 63 43 sh 69 50 c 67 47 sh 69 44 c 69 45 c 68 50 c 67 45 sh 66 44 c

59°

46°

72°

NATIONAL FORECAST FOR THE WEEK TEMPERATURES

48°

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

40°

UV INDEX

®

Wednesday HI LO W 61 48 s 64 42 pc 61 43 pc 57 50 s 55 39 pc 68 44 pc 61 42 pc 58 42 pc 68 49 pc 63 51 pc 65 39 pc 61 40 pc 61 50 pc 65 38 pc 61 46 pc

Thursday HI LO W 72 51 pc 64 43 s 64 51 s 68 52 pc 58 51 s 67 54 s 63 51 pc 59 50 pc 66 57 s 74 50 pc 63 47 s 66 50 s 74 52 pc 66 48 pc 72 50 pc

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Moon

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Rise 6:37 a.m.

6:35 a.m.

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6:32 a.m.

6:31 a.m.

6:29 a.m.

6:28 a.m.

Rise 11:49 p.m. none 12:46 a.m.

1:37 a.m.

2:22 a.m.

3:03 a.m.

3:41 a.m.

MOON PHASES

Set 8:03 p.m.

8:04 p.m.

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Set 8:57 a.m.

9:52 a.m.

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1:04 p.m.

2:13 p.m.

3:21 p.m.

Last

New

First

Full

4/22

4/29

5/6

5/14

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2014

April 18, 2014 PRECIPITATION

Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal

National Summary: A low pressure system off the South Carolina coast on Saturday will continue to spread rain from Georgia to the Carolinas. Showers and thunderstorms will linger into Florida. Dry weather will stretch from the Tennessee Valley to the mid-Atlantic due to high pressure. Showers and thunderstorms will persist throughout the day in the western Plains and Four Corners region. The showers and thunderstorms will move into the central Plains Sunday with rain across the Great Lakes region. The Southeast will dry out while the Pacific Northwest will receive some rain. The area of showers and thunderstorms will shift farther east into the Tennessee Valley and Ohio Valley Monday.

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 58 45 r 59 49 r 76 52 pc 78 56 pc 80 58 pc 78 59 pc 79 56 pc Boston 47 38 pc 59 39 pc 55 39 pc 60 45 pc 64 46 pc 57 44 sh 59 48 pc Chicago 55 35 pc 64 43 pc 70 49 c 65 54 c 68 44 s 60 45 pc 69 48 t Cincinnati 66 45 c 68 46 s 74 50 pc 71 53 pc 72 50 pc 69 57 s 79 55 s Dallas 76 58 pc 78 61 pc 79 64 t 81 66 t 86 65 pc 86 65 pc 85 65 pc Denver 78 47 s 66 42 pc 73 44 pc 75 44 pc 81 45 pc 77 39 s 66 42 s Detroit 57 37 sh 54 37 pc 68 47 c 66 48 c 67 43 pc 59 41 s 63 49 pc Houston 80 58 c 79 61 pc 81 64 pc 80 63 pc 83 64 pc 85 66 s 83 68 pc Indianapolis 66 46 c 67 46 s 73 52 c 70 53 sh 71 49 s 68 49 pc 70 55 c Kansas City 68 51 pc 73 56 pc 74 57 r 74 62 pc 85 64 s 85 58 t 77 55 pc Los Angeles 69 58 pc 72 57 pc 77 57 pc 77 58 pc 70 55 pc 72 54 pc 71 57 s Miami 84 72 t 85 64 t 82 69 pc 83 71 pc 84 70 s 84 71 pc 87 72 sh Nashville 68 48 c 75 51 s 78 54 pc 76 57 pc 76 57 c 76 63 s 89 60 pc New Orleans 73 57 t 77 60 pc 79 61 pc 80 62 pc 81 65 c 84 67 pc 83 70 pc New York City 52 44 c 65 43 s 62 44 pc 63 48 pc 68 50 pc 65 48 pc 66 57 s Orlando 80 65 r 76 55 t 77 62 pc 82 62 pc 83 62 s 86 64 pc 87 67 pc Phoenix 86 66 s 87 69 pc 92 71 pc 95 72 s 92 68 pc 88 65 s 89 65 s San Francisco 64 51 pc 63 50 s 66 52 pc 64 50 pc 60 51 c 63 50 pc 66 50 c Seattle 57 40 pc 57 42 sh 59 44 c 57 43 sh 57 42 c 57 48 c 63 48 r Washington, DC 60 47 c 71 45 pc 67 46 pc 73 51 pc 74 53 sh 69 47 s 71 61 s Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.

Office 365 transition offers new features

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 Rachel Konieczny Rocket Contributor

Slippery Rock University is undergoing a big change in e-mail operating systems with the transition to Microsoft Office 365 that began on April 1.

Dr. John Ziegler, Associate Provost of Information and Administrative Technology Services (IATS) and Henry Magusiak, Director of Enterprise Applications within IATS, are both involved in the switch and excited for the new features to be available to students by the end of the month. It is their hope that students will see many advantages with the system, specifically with mobile devices and the system’s storage capacity.

“Office 365 is becoming a standard communication structure for many institutions and businesses worldwide,” Ziegler explained.

“While we already used Microsoft Exchange on campus, this is now hosted in the cloud. This is the next step in the progression of Microsoft products.”

Zeilger said Microsoft Office 365 is expected to give the student 25

GB of storage across the platform, increased accessibility from mobile devices, frequent updates to enhance user experience, built-in anti-spam message filtering, increased security.

Features also include the ability to access from any device using a browser edit Word, Excel and PowerPoint files using the Office Online feature, outstanding reliability, and the ability to share and store files through OneDrive technology, among other benefits.

“Ideally, summer would be a great time to make this switch, but people typically don’t use their email as much in the summer, and students are in various stages of using these services,” Ziegler commented.

“During the semester, we are able to take care of requests in a timely manner. Currently, we experience less than 10 calls per day. It is a better user experience for the student if the switch is made during the school year.”

According to Magusiak, 4,000 mailboxes have already been setup, with the transition being fairly smooth, and no major issues surfacing.

Daniel Petrelli, a freshman

marketing and environment and society double major, expressed his views on the switch.

“I don’t mind if it is something new. Once I’m used to it, it’ll come naturally," Petrelli said.

As Slippery Rock University has used Microsoft products in the past, the infrastructure was in place to move to the Office 365 system as well as licensing from the Pa. State System of Higer Education.

Zeigler explained a major difference between the current Microsoft Exchange system and the new Office 365 is the ability for programs to be hosted in the cloud, a collective network of information.

Other differences include the increase in storage capacity, compatibility with mobile devices, and use of office applications.

Ziegler and Magusiak are hopeful about the switch for students and faculty.

“The storage and sharing features are key to the program, as well as the potential for the office applications,” Ziegler said. “As we hopefully work towards moving the faculty and staff into the same service, we will all benefit from those features.”

Substitutions for online exams under consideration Continued from Page A-1

INDEX Blotter.................A-3 Comics...................B-5 Rock Notes...............A-3 Sports...................C-1 Opinion................B-1 Campus Life.............D-1

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

220 Eisenberg Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, PA 16057

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

bunch of students that have to be there. It’s even better.”

According to Danielson, preventing cheating is one of the greatest challenges for distance education, but it is not impossible.

“There’s a couple ways you can [prevent cheating],” Danielson said. “You can tweak your assessments in a way that prevents cheating. If you have writing assignments, you can use Turnitin which detects plagiarism. If it is a test, you can randomize questions which gives you a different set questions in a different order. You can add a timer to the test.”

Another possibility is that the students could purchase 3D cameras that could record the room as the student takes an exam which would allow the professors to see all conditions of the room while the student takes a test.

Danielson said that he hopes that students will not have to be required to use 3D cameras.

Laux stated that it’s obvious that students cheat on online exams, and that reorganizing questions and creating timers does little to prevent students from cheating.

“An examination is supposed to measure what an individual knows about a specific body of knowledge at some given point in time,” Laux said. “If it doesn’t access that, it’s not valid. The measurement is worthless.

I think we’re getting a lot a worthless measurements.

Except it’s worse than nothing because it pretends to be something.”

Danielson explained that maybe the idea of tests should be changed altogether.

“The less popular, but I would think, more pedagogically sound approach to the problem is to change the way that you test and assess your student,” Danielson said. “The test is no longer a tool that used to catch a student not knowing information but use the test as retention tool.”

Danielson explained that normally if a student flunks a test, then the information never comes up again and the student won’t be motivated to go back and learn the material.

“Some would say, why not give the test and tell them that its open book and that they can use retake it as much as they want and they can use their friends because in

real life when you work together it’s call collaboration, but in higher education, it’s called cheating,” Danielson said. “Yeah, they’re working together, but they read the material, and when they come to class everyone has the same proficiency levels.”

Alternatively, Danielson believes that online classes could rely more on projects and essays than exams.

Laux stated that the reasoning behind having online classes is wrong to begin with.

“I think that there’s a simple explanation for the proliferation of online classes, and it’s not education. “It’s money. Why do people take the classes? For convenience.”

“I’ve heard now that the president of the university has at least said on at least three occasions that students have told us how they want to learn and that is online,” Laux said. “Without disrespecting students, students can tell you all kinds of things about how they would prefer to learn but not all of them are in their long-term best interest. Our students have told us that most of them also don’t want to be bothered with taking a foreign language.

They are wrongheaded about that and we should tell them that, not acquiesce to them."

“Students of any age are going to be are going to be sort of inherently motivated in many instances by what’s easiest, what’s most convenient, and what’s the straightest line between two points. It’s the job of the faculty to a great extent to educate them as to why they should want something different.”

Danielson said there is a greater need for online courses beyond financial benefits.

“Enrollments are down because there are less students graduating from high school in the surrounding counties,” Danielson said. “So what we need to do is to broaden our student base. Who do we serve? It used to be just residential students trying to get an undergraduate degree but there are a lot of adult non-traditional learners that could benefit from getting a degree.”

Even with SRU’s increased interest in online classes, Danielson does not think that traditional classes will be completely replaced.

“I don’t think there is any desire to replace the four-year residential undergraduate experience, Danielson said.

“No way. That is where we are. But at the same time we have an opportunity to better serve the Commonwealth with our technology.”

NEWS

April 18, 2014

A-3

POLICE BLOTTER Campus April 13- A fight involving members of the basketball team was reported at the Abersold Recreation Center. An assistant coach escorted the individuals outside and is handling the incident.

No other action was taken by the police department.

April 5- Timothy Plansinis of West Mifflin, Pa. and Robert Stamm of Butler, Pa. were cited for disorderly house after an incident along Grove City Road. Plansinis and Stamm were both under the influence of alcohol and under the age of 21.

April 13 – Police observed Slippery Rock University property in a window at North Hall.

The property was confiscated and the incident was referred to judicial.

April 5- Samuel Delauter of Thurmont, Md. was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after being stopped along South Main Street. Nathan Karwoski of Butler, Pa. who was a passenger in the vehicle was found to be under the influence of alcohol while under the age of 21 and cited for underage consumption.

April 13 – An individual was transported to Butler Medical Center for evaluation following a welfare check at North Hall for a possibly suicidal person. Proper notifications were made regarding the individual.

April 13 – Brennan Lorditch, 19, was issued citations for possession of a small amount of paraphernalia and disorderly conduct for a previous incident.

April 13 – Akosua Nimako, 21, was issued citations for possession of paraphernalia and careless driving for a previous incident.

April 7- A resident of New Castle Street reported somebody entered his vehicle while parked in his driveway and stole a phone charger, loose change, a book of checks, Arby’s gift cards and VIP passes to Arby’s.

April 9- Torr Keefer of Duncansville, Pa., Colin McCormick of Finelyville, Pa. and Julien Veltri of Washington, Pa. were cited for disorderly house after an egging incident at Stonecrest Apartments.

Borough April 4 - A resident of Grove City Road reported that a smokeless ashtray was stolen from his front porch.

April 5 - Andrew Ragusa of Norriton, Pa. was cited for disorderly house after an officer watched him pick up a sign and throw it into the intersection of Maltby Avenue and South Main Street. Ragusa was also found to be under the influence of alcohol and under the age of 21.

April 9- Sarah Meno of Sheffield Lake, Oh. was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after being stopped for a traffic violation along South Main Street.

April 9- A resident of Stonecrest Apartments reported damage to her porch furniture and broken eggs on her porch.

April 10- Megan Browne of Grove City, Pa. was arrested and placed in the Butler County Jail for a PFA violation.

April 11- A hit and run was reported where a full sized, gold Sedan struck a vehicle along North Main Street near the intersection of New Castle Street and drove away.

April 12- Matthew Horvatich of Boardman, Oh. and Dalton Taylor of Youngstown, Oh. were cited for disorderly house after being found urinating behind the Strain Behavioral Science Building.

Both were found to be under the influence of alcohol while under the age of 21.

April 12- Miriah Mascetta of New Castle, Pa. and Jenna Williams of New Castle, Pa. were cited for disorderly house after the car they were passengers in was stopped for a traffic violation. Mascetta and Williams were found to be under the influence of alcohol and under the age of 21.

April 14- A resident along Franklin Street reported a burglary. The victim stated that unknown actors broke into his screened porch, smoked some cigars and left.

April 15- An actor attempted to leave Giant Eagle with $363.05 worth of meat, vegetables and fruit without paying for the items and was reported for retail theft. When confronted by the store manager, the actor fled the scene.

Compiled by Kevin Squires

Adagio Health Condom Palooza

ROCK NOTES

Adagio Health will be on campus April 29 during common hour in the quad helping to present Condom Palooza which will provide safe sex information, games, food, prizes, and of course, condoms! Come out and help spread awareness on your campus!

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

To submit a Rock Note please send your announcement by 6 p.m. Wednesday to Jon Janasik at jtj9529@sru.edu or to rocket.news@sru.edu. The Rocket does not guarantee that all requests will be published in the paper.

April 18, 2014

A-4

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OPINION

O

Our View

OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 96, Number 22

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

Misunderstandings, cheating areas of concern for online-only classes While many universities are pushing online programs because they are an easy way to get higher enrollment (not to mention they are more cost effective), there are s e veral advant ages to traditional classroom learning that can’t be denied.

Classroom learning typically offers a multisensory appeal. A student can listen to the instructor, receive visual cues from PowerPoint slides, handouts or whiteboard/chalkboard lists, and participate in hands-on activities. Students can also access the instructor in class.

Interaction is immediate and there are opportunities to a s k qu e s t i ons an d participate in real, personto-person discussions. This also allows students to benefit from the firsthand accounts of other students’ experiences.

According to a study done by the University of the Potomac, only 26 percent of online students claim to learn better online than in a classroom.

Cheating could also be a concern for online courses.

Even if courses are designed to avoid tests, and therefore avoid cheating, certain classes cannot be evaluated the same, even with the use of essays. A traditional class with tests and an online class without tests are not even comparable. The learning experience for a student who has to go through studying and preparation for that test would definitely go far beyond a student who simply answers discussion questions on a given topic in an online forum.

There are, of course, other disadvantages to online courses. Online classes require more self-discipline,

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

t ime management and motivation to complete work. Limited conversations with and access to instructors with no personal contact with other students are also major cons for many students.

We l l - pre p are d on l i n e instructors are available via e-mail, phone and instant messaging; students still won’t develop the same interpersonal relationship in most cases. The potential for misunderstanding is always more prevalent in online communication, especially because of the lack of context and nonverbal clues in e-mail and discussion boards.

We think online classes can never truly replace certain aspects of traditional classrooms, and that universities should keep that in mind when pushing for online instruction.

This week’s question: Do you think online classes are easier or more difficult than in the classroom, and which do you prefer?

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.

Arthur Adams Senior Biology Major Erie, Pa. “For me, online classes have been easier because they can’t do the same assessments as they can in the classroom. I would prefer to go to the classroom though.”

Amelia Dickson Sophomore Early Childhood/Special Ed Major Harrisburg, Pa. “Online classes are easier.

It depends on the class. For liberals online is easier, but for my major classes I like to be in the classroom.”

Dave Cortse Senior Health Services Administration Major Pittsburgh, Pa. “I think I depends on the person. I prefer online because it is more convenient.”

OPINION

April 18, 2014

B-2

QUESTION OF

Brittany Fagan @TallGuyBill @MachineGunBrit

THE WEEK

@SRURocket Mine changed last week and I still haven’t gotten it to work properly on my computer or phone. I miss the old rockmail.

The Rocket @SRURocket

#Opinion Q of the Week: Has your RockMail been changed over to Office 365 yet? What do you think of the switch?

Colin Kelly @Colin_M_Kelly @SRURocket yes it has. I am not a fan search bar doesn’t work and it could have waited until the summer. I like rock mail better Chrissy Savides @ThatGreekFreak @SRURocket I don’t like the new email systemharder to see which has been read and sometimes you don’t want to open it, it opens Dane @MostDane @SRURocket I feel like a grandfather trying to use Facebook for the first time.

TWEET @SRURocket Need your voice to be heard? Want to be featured on The Rocket’s opinion pages?

Tweet the @SRURocket and use #opinion for your chance to be featured weekly.

DinnerTime @_DinnerTime @SRURocket As long as I get my SRU Communications and Top Of The Rock every day, does it really matter how?

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.

NO MORE LETTER GRADES: A suggestion to save time in assigning grades and reduce headaches Letter to the Editor, A student takes a course and averages 89.99% at the end of the semester, after the professor has rounded her/ his total numerical grade to two significant digits after the decimal point. His letter grade is a B in the absence of curving, although it is clear to everyone (professor, student, and potential employer) that this number is almost 90%. The student’s grade remains a B, however, since the professor uses a straight scale, i.e., no curving. Why not make an exception and make this grade an A, you may ask. Because, a cutoff point has to be established somewhere.

(Another student may earn an average of 87.83% and argue why not assign me an A, etc.)

Professors spend time converting numerical grades to letter grades (with or without curving), and the administration spends resources (i.e., software) to convert the letter grades back to a numerical scale, to give GPAs (or QPAs, depending on your institution) on a 4.0 or 9.0 scale, depending on your institution. However,

doing so results in aggregation bias, since every value between, for example, 70% and 79.99% is treated as a C, whereas it is clear the student who scores 79.99% has done better than the student who has managed a 70%. In oft used student terms, when arguing against an assigned grade, this grading scheme is “not fair!”

Letter grades or grading for that matter did not appear until the 19tcentury when Yale University assigned grades as best, worse, and worst. Some schools attempt to reduce aggregation bias by including +/- boxes next to the letter grades. Some schools use double letters such as AA, AB, etc., again to reduce aggregation bias.

Why not make the scale continuous (0% 100%) and not bother with discrete scales such as the ones we have in place now (A, B, C, D, F or A+-, B+-, C+-, …, or AA, BA, BB, …)?

Note that, the suggested method does not preclude curving. If the overall class grades are low, a professor can still curve, and for example, add 30 (or however many points are needed) to each student’s numerical average, to boost the grades.

I suggest we drop the letter grading system. The benefits would be: • more accuracy in assigning grades (i.e., no more aggregation bias) • fewer student appeals for grade changes • s y s te m - w i d e t i m e s ave d i n converting from numerical to letter grades and then back to a numerical scale again • avoiding confusion across countries/institutions that use a 4.0 or 9.0 or other scale to convert numbers to letters The costs would be: • dealing with resistance to make a change across the academic community • risking to be among the first to establish this system I suggest we switch to a continuous numerical scale since everyone (students, professors, and potential employers) interprets percentages the same way (0%-100%) and since benefits appear to outweigh costs.

Sincerely, Dr. Füsun F. Gönül

Lohan trying to recover reputation, needs to star in more box office hits

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

Lindsay Lohan has not had the best reputation over recent years. She was the hollywood starlet who crashed and burned in her personal life.

However, with her new docuseries on the OWN network,

she seems to be eager to make a comeback.

I would like to point out, first and foremost, that the idea of a “celebrity” is kind of absurd.

Why is it my business to know if someone is an alcoholic, has been arrested, or is as clean as a whistle?

You would think people would be more concerned with whether or not they like a movie she stars in, not what she did last weekend.

However, that is not how the world works. People are concerned with the image that Lohan has projected.

She went from the innocent girl who made a smash hit as a child, “The Parent Trap”, to an adult celebrity who is in and out of rehab.

Her docu-series has aired on the OWN network since March and has not been raking in an

audience or receiving very good feedback.

The series set out to give Lohan the chance to change her image. I am not so sure the production met its goal, what with the filming cancellations, m i s c o m mu n i c at i o n s , a n d drama from Lohan herself.

Ever yone is occasionally s u cke d i nto t he m e d i a’s inter pret at ion of L ohan’s actions. Who are we to judge though?

It is apparent she comes from an unstable environment at home, her parents were divorced when she was young, her dad has been to jail, both of her parents struggle with alcohol, and she was thrusted into an adult world of acting at a young age. If that doesn’t spell disaster from the beginning, I don’t know what does.

Recently, the buzz of Lohan’s

return has been everywhere.

Her docu-series still has episodes set to air, she is working on a new movie, and continues to appear as a guest star on television shows.

I feel that people should take her acting for what it is and judge her based on that alone. Those who choose to hate her based on her personal life should ask themselves why. I get it, she’s not a role model I would want if I had kids. However, she is 27 years old now. I think she is past the stage of trying to be that for young children.

The only way Lohan will make a comeback, in my eyes, is if she attaches herself to serious productions that have success in the box office. Someone can only last so long as the poster child for fame gone wrong. It is all up to her now to regain her career.

April 18th, 2014

B-3

Top: All runners participate in the color blast before the first leg of the race.

Left: Lisa Clark finshes her final lap.

Middle: A runner leaps through the green powder.

Right: Volunteer. Eric Thomas, smiles after he got covered in red powder.

Top: A group poses at the finish line after the 5K. Bottom: Staff Member Sam Nassan rolls in the powder.

Right: Jordan Bingman emerges from the color.

Photos and Design by: Rebecca Dietrich/Asst. Photo Editor

April 18, 2014

B-4

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C

COMICS More on TV

By Jay Schiller & Greg Cravens

COMICS

Horoscopes

By Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency (MCT) Today's Birthday (04/18/14). Happiness lies abundantly along your path this year. Partnership and finances get a six-month boost from this month's eclipses. Travel cautiously and secure gains before May 20. Summer adventures delight. After August, fun with family and friends takes the spotlight. October's eclipses impact self-discovery and shared resources. Apply your creative talents to projects that contribute to the common good.

Communicate love.

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 -- Abandon bickering and nattering and save time. Don't gamble or take risks (other than creatively). Travel could be enticing, to study a new view. Inspiration comes from dreams. Use it to create something of beauty. Friends want to play. Let another take the lead.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Let a female do the talking. Women have extra power today. Accept help and advice from friends (including powerful women).

You can create a breakthrough in shared finances. Take a bow, and stash it away, except what you need for a celebratory meal.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Find a creative new way to express your love. Include beautiful elements. You're making an excellent impression. Let your partner make the first move. Previous plans come to fruition. Together you go farther and have more fun.

Invite, acknowledge and give thanks.

Brewster Rockit: Space Guy

By Tim Rickard

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -- A dream changes your waking direction. Creative work pays well and satisfies. Check your intuition by asking direct questions to get at the facts. Push beyond your old limits.

Invest in your career. A female supports your agenda. Talk it over, and work together.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Teach as you learn. Counsel a visionary on reality. Dreams show the path, and careful steps avoid pitfalls. Ignore distractions.

Encourage female participation for a breakthrough in the game. Explore new romantic ideas. Use some of the money you've been saving. Beautiful results flower.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Dispel an illusion at work. List problem areas. Control liquids in the workplace. Technology upgrades help. Listen to your partner's ideas, and collaborate. Complying with outrageous requests pays well. Clear clutter at home before your rendezvous. Consider crazy ideas. Enjoy mad romance.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- You're especially clever, and words come easily. Don't try to explain an unfinished project. Find innovative ways to cut costs.

Personal magnetism works in your favor. You love the people you're meeting. Put your heart into your studies, and keep upgrading skills. Learn from everyone.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 6 -- Invest in technology at work. An excellent bargain pops up. Take a giant step that leads to profits. Do the math to estimate payback time. Consider functionality and beauty. A loved one has a brilliant idea. Build romance, and spark some attraction. It's getting exciting.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 6 -- A trick you tried doesn't work. Question odd facts. Stick to practical solutions, and avoid long-shot ideas. Don't rely solely on logic. Think about alternative routes. Use your personal magnetism and charm. If necessary, you can call on friends for support. Relax with family.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 6 -- Consider options carefully, and make an amazing discovery.

Double-check the data. Gain a treasure, and spend next to zero. Repay a favor. You and a partner collaborate for shared benefits backstage. Your past work speaks well for you. You're on fire.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 6 -- Postpone fantasies... ensure a solid foundation before adding on.

Choose what you want to help create. You're on a roll... still, a moment of consideration saves hours of effort.

With excellent party conditions, blowing off steam appeals. Give in to invitations with friends.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 6 -- Choose the next topic of study. Follow through on an interesting suggestion, and provide what's needed. Abandon an old limitation to claim new freedom. Things are not always as expected. Get help from a female. Meditation soothes your spirit, mind and body. (c)2013 bY NANCY BLACK DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS

Bliss

By Harry Bliss

April 18, 2014

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B-6

S SPORTS

INSIDE SPORTS

Out of Playoffs

Malone Arrested

Despite defeating Edinboro on Tuesday night, the SRU women's lacrosse team has been statistically eliminated from playoff contention.

In this week's "View from the Cheap Seats", Steven Bartley shares his thoughts on Ryan Malone's arrest for a DUI and cocaine possesion.

See page C-2.

See page C-3.

Rock drops Seton Hill series

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Sophomore second baseman Jordan Faretta and senior right fielder Brandon Myers rush towards each other and are unable to stop after a miscommunication on a shallow pop-up to right field during last Saturday's doubleheader against Seton Hill University.

Griffins take three from SRU

By Ryan Barlow Rocket Contributor

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Senior Garret Peterson delivers a pitch in game one of the doubleheader at Jack Critchfield Park last Saturday.

The Slipper y Rock baseball team dropped three out of four games against the first place Seton Hill Griffins this past weekend.

Slippery Rock, who is in third place in the Pennsylvania State Athletic ConferenceWestern Division, was defeated 4-1 in game one on Saturday.

Seton Hill carried their momentum into game two, coming away with an 11-8 victory.

Slippery Rock came ready to play Sunday afternoon in Greensburg, Pa., taking a 9-3 win in game three. The Griffins took the series with a 4-3 win in game four.

“We definitely feel that we have a better team than they do, but you can talk about it all you want,” head coach Jeff Messer said. “They’re in first place and we are in third, and the time for talking is over.

We haven’t been able to execute like they have and that’s why we are a bit down in the standings.”

Slippery Rock’s offense was nearly silenced in game one.

The Rock was only able to collect four hits and score one run off of Seton Hill’s starting pitcher Mike Bittel, who almost finished a complete game before being replaced in the seventh.

The Rock’s lone run was recorded after redshirt-sophomore Kyle Vozar hit an RBI single in the seventh inning during the

Rock’s late attempt at comeback.

Senior Garret Peterson was the starting pitcher for Slippery Rock in game one.

Peterson threw a strong five innings before being replaced in the sixth, and suffered from some poor fielding mistakes from the Rock’s defense.

Peterson allowed six hits and four runs, only one run being earned.

Senior Ryan Oglesby entered the game for Slippery Rock in the sixth inning, and finished the game on the mound.

Peterson was credited with the loss, and his win-loss record now stands at 3-3.

The Rock’s bats came alive in game two, but it was still not enough to get the win against a tough Seton Hill offense.

The Rock scored two runs in the first inning following an RBI sacrifice fly by junior Jake Nogalo, and an RBI single from redshirt-freshman Logan Brown.

After a six run top of the second by Seton Hill, Slippery Rock responded with a four run inning.

Sophomore Alex Bell hit and RBI single, followed by a two RBI double by junior Adam Urbania.

Brown then got his second RBI of the afternoon after a sacrifice fly.

Senior Will Kengor added to the Rock’s offense in the third with an RBI single, and also recorded their final run of the game in the seventh after an RBI sacrifice fly

by Urbania. Freshman Preston Falascino SEE GREEN, PAGE C-4

SPORTS

C-2

April 18, 2014

Lacrosse focused on savoring remainder of season

By Matthew Morgan Assistant Sports Editor

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Senior Morgan Pettit breaks past Edinboro University of Pa. defenders for the first goal of Tuesday night's game. Pettit needs three more goals to reach 100 in her SRU career.

Thanks to a stifling defensive attack and 29 forced turnovers, the SRU women’s lacrosse team (5-8, 2-6 PSAC) outfought the Fighting Scots of Edinboro (7-6, 3-6 PSAC) in frigid conditions for a 9-7 victory on Tuesday night.

Edinboro added women's lacrosse in 2009 and has yet to get a win against the Rock.

“We have never lost to Edinboro and this was not the time to start,” senior midfielder Lacey Allis said.

Coming off a three game losing streak, including losses against two nationally ranked teams, SRU was looking for a win to get back on the right track, despite being statistically eliminated from the playoffs.

“At this point in our season we not only needed this win, but wanted it for ourselves and each other,” Allis said.

“We’ve worked so hard all year and though we’re out of the playoffs, it’s just about having fun with our friends and enjoying lacrosse now!”

SRU struck first, less than five minutes into the game, when senior attacker Morgan Pettit deposited her 41st goal of the season in the back of Edinboro’s net.

Edinboro would even the score at 1-1 nearly 18 minutes later after back and forth defensive play for either team. The Rock took the lead 2-1 from a shot by Allis but the Fighting Scots answered back quickly with the equalizer 26 seconds later.

That goal by Edinboro was followed by two more goals of their own in the next three minutes to put SRU at a 4-2 disadvantage with three minutes remaining in the half.

Pettit took notice to the deficit and put the Rock within one goal of the opponent followed by a goal by sophomore midfielder Kaytlin Callaghan to even the score at 4-4 heading into halftime.

“Our biggest strength and most

consistent part of our game this year has been our ability to keep battling and not back down,” SRU head coach Emily Hopkins said. “We will need to keep doing that this weekend.”

Sophomore attacker Anna-Marie Warrington gave Slippery Rock a 5-4 lead with a goal just under four minutes into the second half.Pettit and Allis each scored over the next four minutes, increasing Slippery Rock’s lead to 7-4.

Edinboro answered with a goal of their own to bring the match within two points for the Fighting Scots, 7-5.

Junior attacker Paige Costatino scored her 31st goal of the season at the halfway mark of the second half, restoring that three-goal lead for SRU, 8-5.

Edinboro responded with two goals in the next five minutes to bring the game within one.

Junior attacker Jess Verbic guaranteed the 9-7 victory for SRU with the final goal of the game with just over eight minutes remaining. Overall, Slippery Rock finished with a 27-20 advantage in total shots and forced 22 turnovers by Edinboro.

"We did work on forcing turnovers on defense," coach Hopkins said. " After watching some film we thought we could take advantage of their clears."

Pettit finished the game with three goals and one assist. Pettit now only needs three goals to hit 100 for her career at the Rock. Allis finished with two goals in the win. Verbic had one goal and one assist.

Callaghan, Warrington and Costatino each had a goal for SRU. Sophomore Jordan Wagner earned the win in goal for the Rock with eight saves and seven goals allowed.

The Green and White have four games remaining this season with opponents whose records combine 30-19 overall.

The final stretch will begin when the Marauders of Millersville (5-8, 1-7 PSAC) visit SRU Friday afternoon at 3 p.m. for a game commemorating the 125th Anniversary Celebration.

Women's tennis takes two at the Bloomsburg Duals

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Senior Nikolina Grbac returns a serve against the Seton Hill Griffins on April 8. Grbac was victorious in both of her doubles matches in the Bloomsburg Duals this past weekend.

By Brittany Fagan Rocket Contributor

The Slippery Rock women's tennis team won two out of three matches in the Bloomsburg Duals this past weekend at Bloomsburg University.

The Rock faced Bluefield State College of West Virginia Sunday morning and won with a final score of 5-1. All three matches played were races to five which means the first team to score five points wins the match.

Slippery Rock lost 5-1 to Chestnut Hill College Saturday morning, but defeated Bloomsburg University 5-0 later that day.

Bloomsburg University is currently ranked first in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern division, while Slippery Rock University is fourth in the PSAC Western division.

The Rock played the same three doubles and six singles teams through the entire weekend.

Seniors Nikolina Grbac and Sarah Joumond made up the first doubles team for the Rock.

The two went on to win all three of their doubles at the tournament with scores of 8-5, 8-4 and 8-1. Senior Lauren Coggins and freshman Kylee Woodman made up the second doubles team followed by freshman Stephanie Fortier joining sophomore Courtney Gallagher to form the final pair.

All six athletes also competed in the singles matches.

“The ladies had some good competition over the weekend and were extremely aggressive,” head coach Matthew Meredith said. “I think that this tournament was a great indicator for how we will play in the playoffs, assuming that we will make it that far.”

The Rock awaits the announcement of an NCAA Division II national playoff berth which will be broadcasted on Tuesday, April 29.

The team commented that they’re happy with the season that they had and are extremely hopeful for a playoff berth.

If the team makes it to the playoffs, it will be the eighth consecutive trip for the team.

The Rock finishes their season with an overall 13-12 winning season record making them fourth in the PSAC West with a 3-3 record.

Overall, Meredith says that he was pleased with the season and was happy with their end of the season ranking as sixth in the Atlantic Region.

“We played a few nationally and regionally ranked teams this season and it really prepared us for the games in our conference,” Meredith said.

“Every match we played gave us great experience for the playoff games.”

The Green and White anxiously await the announcement for their chance to play just a few more matches of tennis before the end of the semester.

April 18, 2014

SPORTS

C-3

Rock softball splits doubleheader with Mercyhurst

By Brian Hepfinger error by Mercyhurt’s right third base, and then scored Rocket Contributor

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Junior infielder Taylor Welch squares up to bunt against the Mercyhurst Lakers on Saturday.

The Slippery Rock University softball team (13-16 overall, 9-7 PSAC) split a doubleheader against Mercyhurst University (12-20 overall, 6-10 PSAC) Thursday.

Mercyhurst won the first game 3-2, after a tworun walk-off homerun by Megan Smith.

“The PSAC is a tough conference to play in,” junior infielder Taylor Welch said. “Our past couple of games we have played very well, because we have full confidence in all of the girls on the team to perform at their best.”

SRU won the second game 9-8. The game was very back and forth, with each team scoring every few innings.

The Rock hit the ground running, scoring six runs in the first inning. Sophomore outfielder Megan Maloney began SRU’s offense with a single. Maloney then advanced to second base after Welch walked.

Sophomore infielder Katie Kaiser singled, allowing Maloney and Welch to advance.

S ophomore t hird baseman Ashley Samluk fouled out to left field, allowing Maloney to score.

Junior outfielder Alaynna Beers walked.

Senior first baseman Breanna Tongel reached first base off of a fielding

fielder. Freshman infielder Caitlin Baxter continued the Rock’s scoring with a three-run homerun, allowing Tongel and Beers to both score.

Mercyhurst scored one run in the first inning.

Senior pitcher Megan Smith hit a double, and then advanced to third base off of a passed ball.

Junior third baseman Becky Malaga flew out to center field, allowing Smith to score.

SRU’s only scoring in the second inning came from Welch, who homered to give the Rock a 7-1 lead.

However, Mercyhurst got things going in the second inning.

Sophomore catcher Taylor Jezuit had a bunt single to start the inning.

She then stole second base.

S enior outf ielder Kayleigh Milliman hit a single, allowing Jezuit to score. Freshman shortstop Nance Khyshwaunna then singled. Smith hit a three run homerun to drive in Milliman and Khyshwaunna. The Rock still lead 7-5.

Neither team scored in the third inning, but SRU ended its scoring with two runs in the fourth inning. Welch walked, and then Kaiser hit a two-run homerun.

Mercyhurst scored one run in the fourth inning.

Smith reached on a throwing error, advanced to

off of a wild pitch.

With the score being 9-6, Mercyhurst attempted one last offensive push in the sixth inning to try and defeat the Green and White.

Smith reached base again off of a single. Senior first basemen Courtney Smith then hit a two-run homerun.

SRU has been splitting doubleheader matchups regularly. They either play really well in the first game and badly in the second game, or the opposite.

“Unfortunately, we do get the split sometimes, but the score board does not reflect how we play in those games,” freshman c at c h e r Mc Ke n z i e Popatak said. “Our team plays exceptionally well together, but unfortunately, sometimes the score doesn’t end in our favor.”

Popatak is second on the team with a batting average of .343 as a freshman, and also has 17 RBIs. “Being a freshman is an extreme adjustment, but it’s for the better,” Popatak said.

“As a freshman, you learn new things every day from your teammates, coaches, and even yourself.”

The Green and White will face Seton Hill University on Friday, April 18 in Greensburg, PA. The two teams split a doubleheader matchup during their last meeting on March 29.

Malone incident may influence perception of NHL

Steven Bartley "View from the Cheap Seats" Steven Bartley is a senior journalism major and a regular contributor to The Rocket.

Leaving for money does not always pay and for Ryan Malone those words could hold no truer value.

The 6’4 219 pound forward left the Pittsburgh Penguins at the end of the 07-08 season, the same year the Penguins were ousted by the Detroit Redwings in 2008 Stanley Cup final.

Malone had some good years directly after he left Pittsburgh and continued his career with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

When he was arrested Saturday night for driving under the influence of alcohol and having cocaine in his possession, his career came full circle.

He had 51 points his final year in Pittsburgh and would never be able to reach that plateau again, however he came close with 28 points in the 2011-12 season.

Malone's physical play is catching up to him. His career is tailing towards the end.

He played in 57 games this season and only recorded 15 points.

Malone left for more money and nobody could blame him.

A professional athlete that took money rather than winning is unheard of in hockey, let alone any sport.

My biggest concern is not where Malone's career could have gone, but his arrest on Saturday.

Malone said the cocaine in his pocket was not his and said he was holding it for a friend.

Mark Madden reported that Malone had to supplement a drug test over the weekend, and to everyone's surprise, he passed.

Maybe the cocaine wasn’t his, but it is still the premise that he had it on him.

The public doesn't even know how long he could have been around the drug, so concerns are rising.

Of course, we have to address the drinking habits of players in the league. Hockey players are known for some of their partying.

I am not saying it’s a bad thing to have a drink or two, but just before playoffs, and in that amount, especially prior to driving. It all seems like an irresponsible decision.

My biggest fear is that this is not an isolated incident.

There are more players that have drinking and drug problems.

Hockey promotes unity and friendships, together on and off the ice. Games are won and lost because of the team aspect of things. I hope there is not a bigger issue with drugs and alcohol in the NHL. Maybe it will be just an isolated incident, but at the end of the day, Malone has opened up the eyes of the owners and fans of NHL, for better or worse.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

Former Pittsburgh Penguin Ryan Malone during a shift with his current team, the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Malone is currently under investigation after being arrested for a DUI and possesion of cocaine.

SPORTS

C-4

April 18, 2014

Green and White look to climb up in PSAC standings Continued from Page C 1

began the game on the mound for Slippery Rock in game two, but was only able to last one and a third innings after allowing eight runs on four hits and five walks.

Falascino was replaced by senior Anthony Naso who also pitched one and a third innings.

Naso walked four batters but did not allow any runs before being replaced by redshirt-freshman Christian Kerns. Kerns allowed three runs in two thirds of an inning before freshman James Divosevic entered the game.

Divosevic threw two and two thirds innings without allowing a run, and redshirt-sophomore Geoff Sanner entered the game in the seventh to pitch for the remainder of the game. Falascino was pegged with the loss, and his record is now 1-1.

Junior Kyle Schneider pitched a strong game in game three, going six and two thirds innings and allowing three runs. Oglesby replaced him in the seventh inning with one out, and Oglesby was able to record the final two outs to secure the Rock’s victory.

The Rock took an early lead in the first inning after an RBI single from Urbania. Slippery Rock added to their lead with a two run homer from senior Jake Weibley, and an RBI single from Kengor.

The Rock scored another five runs in the fifth, highlighted by a two RBI single from senior Graeme Zaparzynski, who later scored on a wild pitch. Will Kengor also scored later that inning after a second Seton Hill wild pitch.

Redshirt-sophomore started on the mound for Slippery Rock in

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Redshirt-sophomore Kyle Vozar reflects on the outcome of the team's series against Seton Hill University. Slippery Rock lost three out of their four games over the weekend.

game four, and lasted four innings after allowing just two runs on five hits.

Senior John Kovalik entered the game in the fifth, but was credited with his first loss of the season after losing the Rock’s lead in the sixth inning. Kovalik’s record now stands at 3-1.

The Rock scored their first run of game four in the fourth inning after and RBI double from Urbania.

The Rock then took the lead in

the sixth inning after an RBI single from senior Kevin Jovanovich, and an RBI fielders choice by sophomore Jordan Faretta.

The Rock was unable to tie the game up in the seventh, and the game ended after Jake Nogalo popped up in the infield to Seton Hill’s shortstop.

“We showed we hang with them and be just as good of a team any day,” Urbania said. “We knew we had to come ready to play on

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• Boost your grade-point average!

• Lighten your fall course load!

• Study abroad; earn credits!

• Summer internships!

• Pay 2013–2014 tuition rates! …and more

WHY NOT ENROLL IN ONE OF THESE SRU ONLINE LIBERAL STUDIES COURSES THIS SUMMER? • Earn credits and/or raise your SRU GPA to maintain your academic progress for financial aid.

• Take courses before tuition rates increase in the fall.

• No room and board fees.

• Online courses may be taken from your home allowing you to keep your summer job.

SUMMER 2014 ONLINE LIBERAL STUDIES COURSES* PRE-SESSION MAY 14 – MAY 30

Intro to Chemistry – CHEM 104 Public Speaking – COMM 200 Intercultural Communication – COMM 217 Mass Media and Society – COMM 362 College Writing – ENGL 102 Interpreting Literature – ENGL 210 World Literature – ENGL 263 Sel Top: Trickster Mythology – ENGL 298 Discover Geography – GES 100 International Health – HLTH 311 Wellness through Movement – PE342 Concepts of Science w/Lab – PHYS 101 American National Gov’t – POLS 101 The Political Film – POLS 333 Personal Financial Planning – PROF 100

SUMMER SESSION I JUNE 2 – JUNE 27 A member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education

Sunday, and hit the ball hard. We ended up taking that first game on Sunday and probably should have taken the second one but things just didn’t go our way.”

Slippery Rock will play a four game series this weekend with the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.

Games one and two will both be played Friday in Johnstown before both teams travel to Slippery Rock to finish the series on Saturday.

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

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

SUMMER SESSION II JUNE 30 – JULY 28

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

THE COMPLETE SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE IS NOW AVAILABLE AT: WWW.SRU.EDU/MCS OR #8027 2-2014

Students should check their MySRU accounts for registration information and assigned registration dates and times.

April 18, 2014

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CAMPUS LIFE

INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE Maybe she's born with it?

Rock 'N Fashion's Katie Ellis takes a look at young Hollywood actresses becoming ambassadors for beauty brands.

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"Breaking Bad" stereotypes RJ Mitte broke down the stereotypes surrounding disabilities Wednesday night in the Smith Student Center Ballroom.

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SRU hosts first ever Color the Rock 5kk

By Julie Jurich and Heather McClure Rocket Contributors

An explosion of color covered Slippery Rock University’s campus on Sunday for the first ever on-campus Color The Rock, which raised $2,200 for a start up scholarship fund through the University Program Board. The UPB’s Community Service Committee’s Color the Rock 125th Anniversary Celebration 5k sold out at 300 student runners, with a 30 person wait list to try and enter the event. Even though it is small compared to similar style events, UPB Vice President Brandon Cannon said it wasn’t easy bringing the event to campus.

Cannon, a sophomore Public Relations major, said this has been in the works for around a year, and he and his committee chose this because it had never been done before on SRU’s campus. The problem was it had previously been declined three times before. He met with Paul Scanlon, Special Assistant to President Norton, to propose the idea and see if it would even be an option.

One of the biggest concerns was if the color powder, which is actually made of cornstarch and food dye, was safe for the runners, the workers, and exactly what impact it would have on the campus.

VP of Media Relations Matt Steffey, a senior Public Relations major, said “One of the first things we did when it came in was tasted it,” Cannon chuckled when adding, “It tastes just like chalk, or Smarties.”

“One of the things we had to do was test the powder around campus and make sure it washed off with water,” said Steffey. Once they knew the powder wasn’t going to stain the campus, they had the green light to proceed with the event.

Only 300 tickets were available, and only current students were permitted to run. “For the first event, we had to keep it small for liability reasons,” Cannon said. They turned away at least SEE COLOR, PAGE D-3

GRAPHIC BY REBECCA MARCUCCI REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET SRU welcomed their first annual Color the Rock 5K run, raising $2,200 for a scholarship fund. The event brought out 300 students who were sprayed with various colors after every lap.

13th Annual Kaleidoscope Arts Festival welcomes fine entertainment

By Jessica Funk Rocket Contributor

SRU's 13th Annual Kaleidoscope Arts Festival opens the eyes of the community. The festival will showcase the talents off various Slippery Rock students in the areas of music, dance, theatre and visual arts as well as the talents of nationallyy and internationally renowned guest performers and artists.

Now in its 13th year, the Kaleidoscope Festival is an opportunity for the Slippery Rock community to be reminded of the art that is around us.

Dr. Colleen Reilly, assistant professor in the SRU theatre department and director of the festival, said this year’s festival has much in store for the community.

“The festival invites students and faculty to reflect on their many connections to Slippery Rock University, to the Slippery Rock community, to Western PA, to their hometowns, and to the places that they will go as they continue their lifelong

learning,” Reilly said.

The festival is scheduled to begin this week, running from April 15 and ending May 4. In all, 27 events are scheduled to take place over the next month with an event almost every day.

One of the first events, scheduled for April 16 at 7:30 pm in Swope Music Hall, is a musical performance from Blisstaken, a three-piece poetry/jazz performance group.

Poetry is read allowed as jazz saxophone and guitar are played as an accompaniment, creating a unique atmosphere to relax and enjoy the performance.

Not only scheduled to give a lecture on April 23 at 5 p.m. in the Behavioral Science Building, Nikki Rosato will also be conducting interviews of people living in the Slippery Rock community, inquiring about their geographic origins. Interviews will take place from April 23 to April 26 in the Painting Studio in Art Building I. She will be creating a cutout map and combining all of the profiles into one

large “Connections” piece that will be revealed April 26 at the Macoskey Center.

Keeping on track with the theme of culture, the Cleveland Chinese Music Ensemble will be performing classical and folk music with traditional Chinese instruments. The event, co-sponsored by the International Arts and Culture Series and the Chinese Culture Association, will take place April 27 at 3 p.m. in Swope Music Hall.

“It is a part of the mission of the festival to be as inclusive as possible,” Reilly said.

With partnerships from such organizations as the Hispanic/Latino Culture Series, the President’s Commission for Disability Issues and the Frederick Douglass Society, the festival is widely inclusive.

The Kaleidoscope Festival will be partnering with the Robert A. Macoskey Center for Sustainable Systems Education and Research to celebrate Earth Day. Scheduled for April 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the family oriented celebration will feature arts and crafts, music and games as well as

Earth-friendly demonstrations from local SEE ART, PAGE D-3

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April 18, 2014

Young, successful actresses named newest beauty ambassadors

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

Becoming the face of an international beauty brand is an honor reserved for women who are trendsetters, tastemakers, and of course, genetically gifted. Among the latest group of fresh faced stars to be thrust into the spotlight as the faces of iconic brands are Lupita Nyong’o, Bella Thorne, and Blake Lively.

Each of these women symbolizes a different age group, ethnicity, and fan base, all of which is important in representing today’s modern woman.

A newcomer to the fashion and beauty scene, Lupita Nyong’o has been making waves ever since she arrived at the Golden Globes dressed in a red caped gown by Ralph Lauren. With the help of her glam squad, made up of stylist Micaela Erlanger and makeup artist Nick Barose, she made every best dressed list throughout awards season.

As predicted on the Oscars red carpet, it was only a matter of time before she was given a cosmetics contract, thanks to her impeccable beauty choices, done in collaboration with Barose.

Never afraid to take risks, she acts as a chameleon as she transforms into the character her makeup artist wants her to play.

Before landing the role of Lancôme

spokeswoman, she favored products from Chanel and Dior to create her looks, with products from each of these brands selling out within hours of being identified. She joins the likes of Julia Roberts, Emma Watson, and Lily Collins in her role as an ambassador.

Her first campaign drops this summer, and there’s no doubt that beauty fanatics will be lining up to get their hands on Nyong’o-approved products.

Teen queen Bella Thorne is just the latest starlet to score the role of Neutrogena Brand Ambassador. After taking over young Hollywood because of her role on Disney’s "Shake It Up," she is now focusing on making feature films and working as a spokesmodel for Candie’s.

Next month, Thorne will hit the bigscreen with Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler for the comedy, "Blended," about two families on a wild vacation to South Africa. With three movies on the horizon, including thrillers "Home Invasion" and "Big Sky," moviegoers will be seeing a lot more of Thorne as

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

they head to the theater.

As a Candie’s girl, she fronts a line of clothing that her young fan base can afford and will want to wear.

This season’s campaign is inspired by feminine dresses, flirty separates, and the color pink.

For Neutrogena, she will be endorsing their Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Wash, one of the company’s hottest products. Thorne has learned the importance of a proper skincare routine in the short time that she has been a part of the brand, and is now on a mission to help girls feel confident in their appearance. Look for her fresh face in her first set of Neutrogena ads on television now.

The fashion world has been enamored with Blake Lively ever since she stepped on screen as Serena van der Woodsen in 2007. In just a short amount of time, she has truly become a fashion icon, a feat that was remarkably accomplished without the help of a stylist. Every ensemble that she wears on a red carpet

has been hand-picked by her, which is a true rarity in Hollywood.

As her fashion conscious alter-ego on "Gossip Girl," she was decked out in designer clothes from the likes of Chanel and Vera Wang, but her most notable asset was her hair. L’Oreal Paris decided to capitalize on her trademark mane, which has become nearly as iconic as “the Rachel,” whenever they named her as the brand’s newest ambassador.

Her first campaign for the beauty giant is fittingly for a line of products in the Advanced Haircare family, called Volume Filler, which aims to add thickness to fine hair. In the future, there’s no doubt she’ll be starring in ads for L’Oreal’s much-loved makeup.

Nyong’o, Thorne, and Lively all have hot careers that make them smart choices for three of the world’s favorite cosmetic giants. These women will surely be setting beauty trends during their time as spokeswomen, and will pave the way for girls to embrace the skin they’re in.

Winter Soldier challenges quality of Marvel films to come

Jimmy Graner "Jimmy G's Rock Reviews"

4 Stars Jimmy Graner is a junior journalism major and film and media studies minor and a regular contributor to The Rocket.

For those of us who’ve been around for a while, Superman and Batman instantly pop into our minds as heroes. For those who are just joining us, The Avengers are heroes. Either way, each hero comes with their own ability and style of using their superpowers. This time around, it just happens to be Captain America.

With the defeat of The Red Skull already under his belt, Captain America faces the unlikelihood of a new villain, someone who may in turn, not be the enemy after all.

“Captain America: The Winter Soldier” follows Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) or as everyone knows him, Captain America once again. Trying to pick his life back up where he previously left off, he is made aware of a new project being developed by S.H.I.E.L.D., Project Insight. The basis of the project is to have three helicarriers (fictional aircraft carriers that fly), hover above major cities and connect to spy satellites in order to eliminate enemy threats, at any given time. Both Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) and Rogers feel the project is somewhat mysterious. After informing Alexander Pierce (Robert Redford), a senior S.H.I.E.L.D. official,

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS (From left) Steve Rodgers, also known as Captain America, played by Chris Evans and Black Widow, played by Scarlett Johansson, are back again in Marvel's "Captain America: The Winter Soldier."

about his undergoing thoughts to delay the project, Fury is quickly ambushed by multiple assailants as well as the Winter Soldier. Barely surviving the attack, Fury is able to make it to Rodgers’ apartment. While explaining what has happened, Fury is shot and wounded by the Winter Soldier. From here, Rodgers (Captain America) as well as the Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and Falcon (Anthony Mackie), must figure out what S.H.I.E.L.D. is planning and who the masked vigilante, known only as the Winter Soldier, is.

With all of the superhero movies made to date, each have their own big name actors portraying characters so well that it’s almost impossible to believe they truly don’t exist. Up until now, there have been major changes in roles when it comes to who’s playing whom. For example, we’ve had to endure the change of

Spiderman from Tobey Maguire to Andrew Garfield. We’ve also seen Eric Bana to Edward Norton to Mark Ruffalo portrayed as The Incredible Hulk. And don’t even get me started on Batman. With all these changes, we tend to both gain and lose interest in these characters because of the way certain individuals betray them. If there’s one person who was born to play Captain America, it’s definitely Chris Evans. If someone can portray the cocky attitude of one Johnny Storm in “The Fantastic Four” and then completely turn heads and become Captain America, war hero turned American hero, they’ve definitely found their calling.

With all recent Marvel films, CGI has to exist in order to amaze the unlikelihood that one can jump out of a plane without a parachute, take down a jet with nothing but a shield, and perform acrobatic stunts that

would have even Bruce Lee feeling jealous. Though most of the time this can be a negative effect, the directors (Anthony and Joe Russo) actually edit it down to where it’s nearly impossible to tell whether it’s CGI or not.

With so much quality, where can the film go wrong? Oh wait, that’s right, Captain America works alone.

He doesn’t need any of his friends to come along and help. Yes, I as well as the next person can understand that this is a solo film, having only to do with the title character. But you’d think with a threat and enemy like this, a little back up wouldn’t hurt.

With many Marvel films yet to come, the chances of beating the quality seen here is going to be tough.

With every recurring story, comes a new possibility. The overall direction in how it’s presented remains to be the deciding factor.

April 18, 2014

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Kaleidoscope festival kicks off with Greek Tragedy

By Jillian Wilcox Rocket Contributor

‘Electra: A Modern Gothic’, based off the Greek tragedy by Sophocles, marked the beginning of the Kaleidoscope Festival with its student performance Tuesday.

The play was shown Tuesday and Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. in the University Union MPR. There was also a special sold-out performance Thursday at 12:30 p.m. for high school students.

After the performances, cast and crew had a discussion with audience members. The play was written by David Skeele, SRU theatre professor and directed

by Gordon R. Phetteplace, SRU associate professor of theatre and department chair.

The story of Electra focuses on the revenge sought by Electra and her brother, Orestes, against their mother and stepfather, Clytemnestra and Aegisthus, for the murder of their father, Agamemnon.

Electra, originally a poeticallywritten tragedy was replaced with hillbilly dialect in a rural Americana setting. Skeele said it would be a challenge for himself as a writer and wanted to see what would happen with the interesting use of language.

“I’ve never written anything like it. I’ve spent the last few years writing horror plays. I’ve never tried doing anything like this,” Skeele said.

He was always interested in the play but wanted to rethink the story in a rural Americana setting when he wrote it for Phetteplace, Skeele said.

“I was thinking endless cycles of revenge… where does this happen? Hatfield and McCoy,” Skeele decided.

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Carina Iannarelli as Electra stunned audiences with her intense dramatic twists and character motivations.

“What he’s done is taken Sophocles’ plotline and he’s written his own play,” director Gordon Phetteplace said.

When audience members mentioned they would like to see more added to the story in the Wednesday night discussion, Phetteplace added, “I want David to write two other plays to go with this. An American trilogy would be really interesting.”

The play also includes live folk music that goes underneath points in the story.

“The music wasn’t in the script.

The music I added,” Phetteplace explained.

Ultimately, both Skeele and Phetteplace decided the music really added to the feeling of the play.

The cast of theatre majors includes: Rachel Lambert as Cora, Malic Williams as the Reverend,

Joe Karl as Orestes, Carina Iannarelli as Electra, Amber Mikec as Chrysothemis, Cindy Brennan as Clytemnestra, and Ethan Rochow as Aegisthus.

The cast practiced the play in class since Jan. and were excited to finally have an audience, according to theatre and communication major, Carina Iannarelli.

“It’s a completely original play from someone we know. If this gets published in any way, we are going to be the original cast,” Iannarelli said.

Students will travel to Scotland this summer to perform the play at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the largest arts festival in the world.

This year the 16 students involved will travel and be responsible for packing, transporting, and producing the show. At the festival, students will premiere ‘Electra’ on the international level at Venue 45.

The production is supported by: Colleen Reilly, assistant professor of theatre and Kaleidoscope director, as company manager, Margaret Rial as stage manager, Becca McGann as assistant stage manager, Kyle Andreas as scenic designer and lead musician, Karl Wiltraut as lighting designer, Alex Barnhart as sound design and lead guitar/banjo, Kayla Boulton as costume designer, Jina Pounds

as make-up and gore designer, Jack Libengood as technical director, and Samantha Kuchta as public relations coordinator and rhythm guitar. Dr. Deb Cohen, professor of Spanish, plays bass in the band, and director Gordon R. Phetteplace plays harmonica.

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Malic Williams as the Reverend was enthralled with emotional reactions and theatrical presence. His character was an integral part of the production.

Follow this QR code for more on Campus Life stories!

Check out this online exclusive to see more about "Electra".

www.youtube.com/SRURocket

Student Government Association Next Senate meeting Monday April 21st 8pm in the Robert M. Smith Student Center

Friday at 4pm and 8pm Saturday at 8pm Sunday at 8pm

@SRSGA

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April 18, 2014

GRAPHIC BY ALEX MOWREY

"Breaking Bad" star RJ Mitte inspires more positive outlooks on disabilities

By Mary Leach Copy Editor

Mitte was in the right place at the right time when he began to pursue his career in acting.

His younger sister got her start when she was discovered by a casting director at a Houston water park. The Louisiana natives moved to Los Angeles to support her career, but Mitte was soon approached about the possibility of acting as well.

“We thought, ‘Sure, why not?’ And it took off from there,” Mitte said about his decision to start auditioning for roles. After appearing in background parts in shows such as “Hannah Montana” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” he was given the chance to audition for the character of Walter Jr. on “Breaking Bad,” which ultimately brought him success.

His lucky break in Hollywood was an unexpected success.

“No one expected that I would have this opportunity,” Mitte said. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) at the age of three and had to overcome physical limitations just to control his limbs. Individuals with CP often experience difficulties in movement, since this disorder involves the brain and the nervous system functions. Mitte spent his childhood at the Shriners hospital working to confront the limitations associated with his diagnosis.

“I grew up learning more about my disability every day,” he said. Luckily for Mitte, the character of Walter Jr. has CP as well, so he was able to apply the experiences from his own life to the role. According to the actor, using crutches to portray Walter Jr. was a reminder of the challenges he had to overcome as a child.

“It was a nice eye opener. I got to see everything I could be and what people expected me to be,” Mitte explained.

Representing individuals with disabilities in the media was one of the many reasons Mitte was drawn to the role of Walter Jr. as well.

“There are only two percent of actors on television and in film and the number’s growing every day. There are so many amazing movements, so many amazing organizations that I work with that are pushing to have

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET "Breaking Bad" and "Switched at Birth" star, RJ Mitte, said he wouldn't be where he is today without his disability. Mitte, who has cerebral palsy, says it's an obstacle that he has overcome to find success.

more honest and more real characters on television” he said. Mitte is a board member for I AM PWD (Inclusion in the Arts & Media of People with Disabilities), a Screen Actors Guild campaign which advocates for equal rights for actors with disabilities.

However, Mitte isn’t just concerned about ending the stigma associated with disability in Hollywood. He uses his newfound fame as an opportunity to talk about being an agent of change, standing up to bullying, and accepting any challenge that may appear in life.

He told the story of an experience he had in Los Angeles when he witnessed an elderly

woman slip and fall in a crowded area. He watched as other individuals turned away from the woman or changed their paths to avoid giving her assistance. It was Mitte who took the first step to help the woman, and soon others followed suit.

He said, “setting the example is the most important thing you can do. Everyone is always watching. You can do so much with it when everyone is watching.”

Mitte also addressed the issue surrounding social media. He emphasized the importance of using sites like Twitter and Instagram to make a positive difference in the world rather than putting negative or harmful information in posts. With the ability to share on a wide-spread scale at such a quick speed, he acknowledged that emotional bullying on social media can be equally has harmful as physical bullying.

“You’re here to make this world a stronger and better place and you don’t want something you post to ruin that,” Mitte said, reminding the audience that words online don’t disappear just because they have been deleted.

Everyone has challenges to overcome, whether they are disabled or able-bodied, Mitte explained. His broad definition of ‘disabled’ includes anyone who has challenges to face in life. Having a disability provides individuals with greater knowledge, and being able to overcome adversity is a choice, said Mitte. He developed his willingness to speak to groups about rising above discrimination and facing challenges with the hope to inspire others.

“Which way do you want your strength to grow?”

Looking towards the future, Mitte will return to his role as Campbell, a pre-med college student paralyzed by a snowboarding accident on the ABC Family show “Switched at Birth.”

Overall, he continues to audition and move forward to different roles and diverse forms of media, including an upcoming documentary.

Mitte has used the role of Walter Jr. as a way to launch his career and hopes to continue making an impact in film and television.

“In this business, it’s about what makes you happy…it’s always the little things.”

Art festival welcomes performances Color the Rock paints the town

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sustainable vendors.

With events that include the public, according to Dr. Reilly, SRU is able to connect with the community.

On May 1, Reid Davenport, a wheelchair-bound man suffering from cerebral palsy will screen his award-winning documentary, “The Wheelchair Diaries: One Step Up”, detailing his experience with the issue of accessibility in Europe. The film will be screened at 5:30 p.m. in Vincent Science Center 105.

The final day of the festival will close with a children’s workshop followed by a performance from The Jammin’ Divas.

Performing both contemporary and traditional folk music, the group spreads the joy of music

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by sharing the stories of various cultures through song. The performance will take place May 4 at 4 p.m. in the University Union.

“The Kaleidoscope Festival gives students, faculty and community members an opportunity for everyone at SRU and the surrounding community to come together and celebrate the arts,” Reilly said “We are all moving so fast as we sprint to the end of the semester, and Kaleidoscope provides an opportunity to take a deep breath and appreciate the world around (and within) each and every one of us.”

forty community members and faculty members, who were also interested in participating.

Steffey commented, “One of the hardest things was turning them away. How do you nicely turn that many people down?”

It was $16 per ticket to be in the event, and that included a t-shirt, sunglasses, a sticker representing their heat number, and two color packets. Part of the ticket cost went toward covering the event, and the other part went toward starting a scholarship fund for future UPB members.

Among the 300 participants was Courtney Lee, a senior sport management major, who was running her first ever 5K. She said she and her friend

weren’t too sure what to expect, but knew they could expect a great event because it was put on by UPB. Fellow sport management m aj or, s op h om ore Ho l l y Kennedy, was also among the runners at the event. Kennedy said she participated in Color the Rock because she always wanted to do something like a color run.

SRU UPB is already working towards organizing Color the Rock for next year. They plan on holding the event again in April and hope to open the 5K to the community and SRU faculty.

“Who wouldn’t do it again?” said Lee.

April 18, 2014

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