The Rocket 04-25-2014 by SRU Rocket

Embracing the "V" With FMLA SRU Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance (FMLA) brings annual Vagina Monologues performance in celebration of feminism. Page D-1

Friday April 25, 2014 • Volume 97, Issue Number 23 • Slippery Rock University's Student Newspaper

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www.theonlinerocket.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

NEWS

Veterans Earn New Lounge President Norton thanks veterans by opening a new student lounge in the Smith Student Center. Page A-2

OPINION

Rocky Showdown Rocket Editors share their thoughts on which mascot is the best. Tweet us with #rockyshowdown to weigh in. Page B-1

SPORTS

Softball Splits With Salem The SRU softball team split a low-scoring doubleheader with Salem International Monday. Page C-2

CAMPUS LIFE

SRU Relay Fights Cancer SRU brings its annual Relay for Life event with prizes, games, and the hope to save lives. Page D-1

Baseball beats Golden Eagles The Slippery Rock baseball team swept Clarion for the second time this season on Monday. Page C-1

ROCK PRIDE? 90s Political movement leaves SRU hero's career in ruins By Jonathan Janasik News Editor

Rub the rock, say hello to everyone you pass, and sing the alma mater as loud as you can. These classic traditions are still embraced by the SRU community, other traditions have since fallen out of popularity. Perhaps most notably, the original Rocky mascot has disappeared without a trace. Throughout the '50s and '60s SRU sports teams were known as the Slippery Rock Rockets, Vice President of Student Affairs Bob Watson explained. For about 15 years, the Rockets were personified as a mascot known as Rocket Man. Eventually Rocket Man faded away. In the late '60s, Slippery Rock sports ditched the name “the Rockets” and replaced it with “the Rock.” SRU student Bob Jones asked his mother, Francesse Jones, to sew him a costume so that he could become a new mascot. She created large cotton round ball with mesh eyes, and a knit hat with the name ‘Rocky” on it. When Jones put on the costume, he would wear socks on his hands, and sneakers on his feet. Watson stated that people commonly referred to Rocky as being an old sweat

” sock. Rocky costume continued until basically retired. re Koveleski stated that SGA’s “He really ally the late '90s. That was when Kovelesk didn’t look ok then Vice President of Student original idea id was to replace like a rock,” ck,” Government Association, Rocky with wit a character from Brad Kovaleski helped lead the the movie “Galaxy Quest” who Watson said. aid. was a bold bolder that transformed search for new mascot. “The great eat into a person. “At the time there was no thing about it ut perso The costume was mascot on campus, He didn’t shot down because it would was that it was come to games,” have cost $$15,000. amorphous.. Its According to Koveleski, SGA’s Kovaleski character was Accordin backup plan said “So the lack of shape hape pl was to replace Rocky with a Weimaraner dog. although and character. ” ter. “I don’t know if it was my people Part of what t a l k e d idea [to replace the rock], made Rocky cky so about how or if it was exciting is that wa because I was an impressionable young 20 year much they nobody knew about ew impression ” Koveleski said. love this old at the time, him until hee began to t Watson objected to the idea mascot, I go to sporting events. ng of having a dog as the mascot had been “I don’t think n’t and suggested a lion. on campus students said ‘hey we id sugges At the time, for three need a mascot, cot,’” Watson tim the phrase ‘Rock years at this Pride’ was embraced by the explained. “He just kind Rock students and point and Slippery R of showed up. It was in sports teams. I had never the borderline between great, ine team “We kep kept talking about our once seen ridiculous, and pathetic, but it students as the pride of Slippery this supposed so much fun. ” n. ” Watson said. m a s c o t Rock University, Watson said Rocky showed Univ up at the right ght place at the right b e c a u s e “They had coined this phrase Pride’ and we referred time. Students nts embraced their it was ‘Rock Prid students as the pride of new mascot, t, partially because to the stud Rock. We then, in Jones portrayed ayed him so well. Slippery R conversations with students, “If you asked someone conversati visiting campus mpus what that is, focused of the term ‘pride’. A no one would uld have any idea,” pride is a ggroup or community Watson said. d. “Everybody on of lions.” was held, and campus knew new that it was An election elec Rocky the Rock.” Rocky the Lion was chosen. When Jones ones graduated “It was actually announced homecoming pep rally,” in 1983, the he Rocky costume at the hom stayed on campus and was PHOTO COURTESY OF SRU BAILEY LIBRARY ARCHIVES passed on to another student. SEE ROCKY, PAGE A-3 The tradition of passing the

SGA eliminates Co-Op Accident involving three cars By Kevin Squires Assistant News Editor

The Board of Cooperative Activities will no longer be a component of the Student Government Association after a passed motion Monday night. The motion changed the constitution allowing the Board of Co-Operative Activities to become integrated into the Financial Affairs Committee and gave the president of SGA and the vice president for financial affairs voting rights on the Board of Directors. While the motion passed, some senators did not feel comfortable making the decision. “I don’t think we should make this vote at all this year. I kind of think that it got over some people who really don’t care as much about it,” Senator Oliver Lanier said. “I don’t feel like we are informed about it where we are still asking basic questions. I just feel like people aren’t totally there in understanding exactly what this board is going to do. It’s past if you agree or disagree with it. It’s if you’re informed on what you’re voting on.” President Buddy Clements reminded Lanier that there were two open forums held discussing the changes. “We had more attendance at the first SEE ARGUMENT, PAGE A-2

sends a driver to the hospital

ALEX MOWERY/THE ROCKET

A car accident was caused by a black Ford Focus hatchback on Thursday afternoon when the driver of the Focus hit the front of a green Dodge Grand Caravan. According to a State Trooper on scene, the Focus was turning onto campus from Keister Road by South Rock Apartments. The Focus spun 180 degrees after hitting the Grand Caravan causing the Focus to strike a third car that was stopped at a stop sign. The driver of the Focus was sent to the hospital with minor injuries, while the other drivers were not harmed.

NEWS

A-2

April 25, 2014

New center offers recreation for veterans

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 Amber Cannon Rocket Contributor

Slipper y Rock University presented the new Student Veterans' Center with a ribbon ceremony on Thursday in the Robert Smith Student Center. The Student Veterans' Center is located in Room 252 in the Student Center. The new center is equipped with a flat screen television, computers and furniture for veterans to lounge around in at their leisure. Prior to the ribbon being cut, President Norton said a few words about how beneficial it is for SRU to incorporate a space for veterans to come and discuss their day or how their classes are going. "We realized that our veterans here on campus don't really have a place to land at the end of their day. They needed a place to land, to share their stories and thoughts. This new space will give them an opportunity to meet other veterans who are in the same situation that they are in," she said.

Norton stated that one of the main reasons for this center being built was for personal connection purposes. She explained that most veterans and military personnel that come to college have a very hard time adjusting to the college lifestyle. Veterans can now talk about those adjustment issues with someone who understands in a space that they feel comfortable talking in. SGA President Buddy Clements also said a few words honoring the veterans and congratulating them on their new center. "The whole SGA team along with every student on this campus appreciates the hard work and dedication of these young men and women, so it was only right to give them a space of their own. They deserve it," Clements said. According to Clements, the idea for the center came to him months ago. He said that many rooms in the CSIL office weren't being used and were collecting dust. Aft er bringing the idea to President Norton, the renovations began. "This whole campus is a family,

so we need to look out for each other like a family. I wanted to give all military personnel a place to just relax," he said. John B eckage, President of SRU's Student Veterans of America was very honored and flattered to be given this new center. A former veteran, Beckage said that he is proud to be a part of a campus that recognizes the hard work of all military personnel. He explained that SRU has always been conscious of the veterans on campus. "Veterans on this campus have such a huge support system around them. SRU has always been mindful of how to serve us and how to assist us in higher learning," he said. "With the creation of this center, it allows us veterans to be who we are and allows us to strive in getting a higher education." Following the ribbon cutting, several veterans, professors, and students thank Norton and Clements for finally giving veterans a place on campus where they feel comfortable.

Argument breaks out over SGA Chipotle order Continued from Page A-1

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

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.

open forum than we’ve had in three years,” he said. Anthony Plumberg, Vice President of Campus Outreach, voiced doubts about the motion but concluded that it was worth passing. “Yes, I have some doubts, yes I have some trepidation as to what this board will entail and where it will take student government, but I am fully confident in placing this trust in a group of outside people that are committed to allowing the student government association to thrive,” he said. “I think this is the best possible option for us to take.” The motion passed, giving way for the Board of Directors to be created. “Right now we are opening the door to the board. We still don’t have the bylaws, those will still need to be approved. We still need to find people for the board,” Clements said. “We still have a lot of work ahead on this board, but that’s the first step.” The next step will be establishing a search committee for the board. SGA approved itself to receive $2,344 out of Budgetary Reserves. A friendly amendment added the other collaborators for the spring outreach event to the request. “Instead of using AVI which we all love so near and dear, I wanted to go outside the university and bring a more different fling, a different flare to our campus,” Senator Alex Merida said. He anticipated bringing orders of Chipotle for 200 students as food. “I had previous experiences with AVI and I just don’t like the selections I could get,” he said. Dr. Robert Watson, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs, voiced concern at Merida’s plan. “We have a contract with AVI. We cannot go out and provide private catering as long as the contract is enforced just because we want another name or just because we want another food. That is the purpose of a dining services contract. That has to be honored, legally it must be honored,” he said. “If it’s a situation where AVI cannot and will not provide that’s something you must have in writing to protect the organization.” The contract with AVI is to be examined and

discussed before any further action is taken regarding food. “Do not make assumptions, that leads you down the wrong path,” Watson said. “This is a legal and binding contract. You do not want an issue coming back about why and how did this happen.” The friendly amendment adding the collaborators to the event was done to reflect discussion at the meeting and show that the money was not just being used for SGA. “Whenever we’ve asked ourselves for money we have to really be careful with what we do,” Clements said. Constitutional changes regarding the election policy were immediately tabled. An open forum to discuss the changes will be announced by SGA. The proposed change would alter the policy to read: “Elections for the Officers and all Senators shall take place no later than 14 days before the start of final exams for the spring semester as scheduled by Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania." Sound and Literary Art Book (SLAB) was approved to receive $71 out of Budgetary Reserves for printing costs. WSRU 88.1 FM for approved the receive $2,340 out of Budgetary Reserves for three new laptops to replace outdated computers. “The ones we have either only half the screen works, they’re so slow you can barely use them and one other one does nothing more than make an angry noise when you press the power button,” Senator Cody Moody said. “This will help the station evolve into this century.” The group did not purchase through the university in order to have administrative controls over the computers and will use their own IT specialist for maintaining the computers. The international honor society for students, professional counselors, and counselor educators Chi Sigma Iota: Alpha Gamma was approved as a new organization with a friendly amendment correcting the spelling. SGA also approved a proclamation recognizing veterans to be read at the dedication for the Veterans' Center.

NEWS

April 25, 2014

A-3

POLICE BLOTTER April 17 – Police responded to a call for a check of a student at Building F. Police talked with student, everything was okay.

April 18 – Grass damage was reported outside of the Old Stone House. The incident is under investigation.

April 17 – Police responded to smoke detector activation in Building E. The room was checked and everything was okay.

April 20 – Courtney Powell, 20, was issued an underage citation for a drug violation in Building A.

April 16 – Police issued a citation to a driver at Morrow Way at a traffic stop.

April 17 – Police received a call for a female who fell outside of Building E. Ambulance was requested for a leg injury. The student was transported to Grove City Hospital.

April 21 – Police responded to a female who passed out in the Eisenberg Classroom Building. Student was driven to the McLachlan Health Center for treatment.

April 16 – Police responded to a theft of monies from an office at Patterson Hall. The case is still under investigation.

April 17 – Burnt food set off a smoke detector at the the R.O.C.K. Apartments. Everything was okay and the alarm was reset.

April 21 – A metis alarm was set off at Advanced Technology and Science Hall. Everything was okay and the system was reset.

April 17 – Victor Santoyo, 20, Kevin Farinelli, 20, Craig Gill, 18, Robert Kaup, 19, and Shawna Sefton, were issued underage citations.

April 17 – Police responded to smoke detector activation due to burnt chicken and rice at the R.O.C.K. Apartments. Everything was okay and the alarm was reset.

April 21 – No one was hurt in a car accident in Swope Commuter Lot.

Campus April 5 – Victor Santoyo, 20, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct for a previous incident. April 15 – Police responded to a report of harassment at the campus police building. Incident was referred to the FBI.

April 17 – Police checked the roof of the Jack Dinger Building after students were reported running on it.

April 17 – Police issued a citation to a driver at Field House Road at a traffic stop.

April 23 – Police responded to a theft report of monies from an unlocked locker. Incident is under investigation. Compiled by Amber Cannon

Rocky the Rock mascot still nowhere to be found Continued from Page A-1

Koveleski said. “There was a big box in the middle of the quad, the four sides fell down and the lion came out with smoke. It was dramatic.” The Rocky that was reviled that day was very different looking than the friendly looking Rocky the Lion that is around today. “Before the Rocky that we have today, we had a different Rocky outfit, but with a very viscous looking face. A go-to-battle kind of lion,” Watson said. “An ‘I’m about to eat you and the other 30 in the room too’ kind of lion.” The ferocity of the lion caused problems, according to Watson. “It wasn’t working with little children," Watson said. "They were intimidated and frightened by it. So when the mascot at homecoming or sporting events would come waltzing around, every time he approached little children, most of them would scream

and turn and run for their parents.” The old Rocky the Lion costume was replaced with the most recent Rocky within the last five or seven years. The decision to replace Rocky the Rock with Rocky the Lion wasn’t accepted with open arms. Watson said that when the Rocky the Lion was announced, the university was contacted by alumni who were angry and wanted to know where the old Rocky went. When it was around, the old Rocky was so revered that there was a plaque created in order honor each person who wore the costume. Dr. Watson stated that the plaque was going to be destroyed before he saved it. The question remains, what happened to Rocky the Rock? “The question is where did he go and what happened to the outfit?” asked Watson. “I don’t know. I truly don’t know.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF SRU BAILEY LIBRARY ARCHIVES

This is the original Rocky the Lion who was notorious for scaring small children at SRU sporting events. The costume is currently located behind a glass case in the Bailey Library Archives.

OPINION

Our View

OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 96, Number 23

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 GRAPHIC BY REBECCA DIETRICH

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.

EDITORIAL POLICY The Rocket strives to present a diverse range of opinions that are both fair and accurate in its editorials and columns appearing on the Opinion pages. “Our View” is the opinion of the Editorial Board and is written by Rocket editorial board members. It reflects the majority opinion of The Rocket Editorial Board. “Our View” does not necessarily reflect the views of Slippery Rock University, its employees or its student body. Columns and cartoons are drafted by various individuals and only reflect the opinions of the columnists.

LETTERS POLICY The Rocket welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns, but does not guarantee their publication. The Rocket retains the right to edit or reject any material submitted. Submitted material becomes the property of The Rocket and cannot be returned. Anonymous submissions will not be published. Those who submit letters must identify themselves by name, year in school, major and/or group affiliation, if any. Please limit letters to a maximum of 400 words. Submit all material by noon Wednesday to: The Rocket, 220 ECB, Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pa. 16057. Or send it via e-mail to: rocket.letters@sru.edu.

Rocky the Lion embodies

Old Mascot, Rocky the Rock,

SRU’s tradition of pride deserves a second chance Catie Clark Editor-in-Chief Rocky, The Pride of The Rock, debuted at SRU in 2007. Many people cannot wrap their heads around the idea that our mascot is a lion, so let me break it down for you: Our mascot at Slippery Rock University is Rocky the Lion. Our mascot is a lion because our sports teams are called the Slippery Rock Pride. A group of lions is called a pride. Naturally, Rocky the mascot makes sense merely for that fact, and but there is more behind the name than that. To further justify why our mascot is a lion, we have to look at the tradition of pride at Slippery Rock university. Both pride in the university as a whole and particularly in its athletic tradition. So when deciding to change the mascot from Rocky version one, who was a literal rock (like a boulder, a big gray stone, could be classified as igneous, metamorphic or sedimentary, you know where I’m going with this) was there really any question that we need a better mascot? Who in the world would take a team seriously who had a rock dancing around to cheer them on? Who would be intimidated by that? The correct answer here is nobody. I’m going to take us outside the PSAC for a minute, and look to high school athletics mascots. I’m thinking of one school in western Pa. in particular, whose mascot is a fighting berry. I’m looking at you Cranberry High School in Seneca, Pa. (I apologize to any of you who graduated from there, a fighting berry could be a very

formidable foe in the correct situation, right?) In any event, who takes a fighting berry seriously without joking about it? No one. And who would take a rock named Rocky seriously either? So when we changed to the new and improved Rocky, of course it not only made for a better mascot, but it also encompasses the ideals we represent here at our university. According to the web page dedicated to Rocky on our website, “the new Rocky gives Slippery Rock University an original mascot that represents the pride, originality and the look of Slippery Rock University with honor. Rocky’s green highlights, gray colors and the overall appearance are derived from all of the Rocky mascots and truly represent the pride shared by all at Slippery Rock University.” So when designing the new mascot, the university d i d n’ t forget about our past traditions of pride, they incorporated them into something new, a more powerful symbol for the university than ever before. How can we go back to a rock after that? I bet you didn’t know that Rocky is a Sport Management maj or with a Geology minor, and his hobbies include going to Rock Athletic events, reading The Rocket (thanks Rocky!), and listening to Rock N’ Roll. That just adds even more to his character. Ultimately, Rocky the Lion makes for a great mascot because he best represents our tradition of pride, he encompasses the symbolic past of the university, and mostly, he isn’t a dancing boulder. He is here to stay; despite the ‘rocks’ supporters of the old mascot might throw.

Jonathan Janasik

News Editor Have you ever felt like you were made for a job? If you have, you know how emotionally connected you get to the job. You define your own identity to the name of the job that you hold. Who would President Norton be if she wasn’t a president? I don’t even want to think about it. B u t t h a t’s t h e situation in which we find our old faithful friend, Rocky the Rock. He was literally made to be the mascot of Slipper y Rock. Slippery Rock loved him and he loved Slippery Rock. And one day SGA just decided to replace him. Imagine how he must have felt when he heard that he was replaced at the job that he was literally created for. The worst part is that the new lion mascot didn’t just steal his job, that lion stole his name too. Although Rocky the Lion may have a friendly exterior, he put the physical representation of our university through a fate worse than death. Having your identity completely stolen. The entire notion of Rock Pride representing a lion doesn’t even make sense. Rock Pride was created to represent how much school spirit the students hold in the university. A group of lions is completely different

pride then the sense of being proud of something. You can’t just use a single word to represent several different meanings at once. If that were true, the Washington State Cougars would be much more interesting team. Some may argue that having a rock as a mascot is just silly. You go to a school called Slippery Rock Un ive rs it y. T h at’s going to be on your diploma. If you go to another state and try to get a job, you’re probably going to be talking about the name of the school. If you’re the type of p e rs on w ho ge t s embarrassed about talking about silly school traditions, you probably should have gone to a university with a more serious name. The original Rocky the Rock costume is missing. If Rocky was a complicated character that would be a huge problem for the university. It’s hard to be excited about a mascot that’s never around. The beauty of Rocky is that he’s so simple. If you draw eye balls on a grey sack and put that sack over your head, then you’ve pretty much became Rocky. Anybody can become Rocky, so anybody can become a living symbol of Slippery Rock University. That’s s omet hing p e ople from outside of SRU may not understand.

Which mascot do you prefer? Tweet us @SRURocket with #rockyshowdown to let us know!

OPINION

April 25, 2014

B-2

QUESTION OF

Bradley Windhorst @TallGuyBill @bradwinhorst

THE WEEK

@SRURocket @SRUCSIL @srugreeklife There should be a Independent Week or something of the line.

The Rocket @SRURocket

What are your thoughts on Greek Week? Let us know with #opinion for a chance to be featured in this week’s issue! @ srugreeklife @SRUCSIL

Dinner Time @_DinnerTime @SRURocket GREEK WEEK IS LIFE. YOUR BAC BETTER BE HIGHER THAN YOUR GPA. #MuThetaMu #GreekWeek #TurnUpOrTransfer #FriendsWithAPriceTag Lea @daytimereveries @SRURocket I’ve been eating Greek yogurt all week to celebrate! Wait... that’s not the point?

Princess Sarah @Sarah-Sobo

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.

@SRURocket Greek life is a great thing. It has given me courage and conﬁdence as I plan to graduate and move into the real world #opinions Kelsey Reese@KelseyLReese @SRURocket I have no problem with it. If students want to take a week to celebrate the greek organization they’re apart of, they should.

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.

Working during the semester effects students’ academics and college experience, restoring funding to higher education would help to resolve problematic situation Letter to the Editor, When I was a college student I didn’t work a job during the academic year. This is not because my family had the money to pay for my education (they didn’t, at all), but because I could cover all of my expenses with student loans. I probably took out more loans than I should have, but I was afraid that if I didn’t my grades would suffer and I wouldn’t be able to go to graduate school. These days, however, it’s not so easy for students to avoid working while taking classes. Many of my students work during the school year, and I’m sure those same students take out student loans as well. It’s just not possible for many of them to earn enough money to cover all of their education costs. This poses a problem for any professor, like myself, who wants to offer students extra credit for attending a lecture on campus, like Dr. Rodemeyer’s recent lecture on “Hooking Up.” Some of my students were unable to attend this lecture because they had class or some other academic commitment. Many couldn’t attend because they had to work. For those who couldn’t attend “Hooking Up,” I offered a second opportunity: they could attend a lecture by Dr. Boynton from Allegheny College. Not surprisingly, many students who missed the first lecture couldn’t attend the second lecture because they had to work. So they asked me for another extra credit opportunity. You can see how

this process could go on forever. I got frustrated with my students and vowed never to offer extra credit again. Then I was reminded of something. The reason students want extra credit is that they haven’t done as well on their coursework as they want to. For many students this is because, in addition to their coursework, they have to work to make money to pay their bills, including their tuition. They have to work when they should be studying. Some of them have to work when they should be in class, and they skip class to work! Whatever their situation, the working student often suffers academically, unless they are extraordinarily disciplined—and many of them are. Not only does their coursework suffer, their education suffers, and their opportunities for extra credit are compromised by their work commitments. This means that the students who need extra credit the most—those whose coursework suffers because they have to work—are the same students who often can’t seize extra credit opportunities because they have to work. They are doubly deprived. The point is that public higher education is not affordable enough and its cost disadvantages the very students who are meant to be served by the public higher education system. Soon it will be out of reach for those who need it most. It’s becoming a self-defeating institution. My frustration, which was initially and impulsively directed at my students, who kept asking for more extra credit opportunities,

should have been focused on those responsible for allowing public higher education to become so expensive. Not the university, but those politicians and state officials (along with the voters who elect them) who systematically decrease funding for public higher education. Higher education is supposed to enable working class students to pull themselves out of the working class, but instead it keeps them working to pay for classes that they sometimes can’t afford to attend! And this sets them up to remain struggling in the working class even after they’ve gotten the education that promised to liberate them. After all, they’ll have to pay back all those student loans once they graduate. I hope for a day when lectures on campus are widely attended because students want to learn something from an expert, not because they need to earn extra points on their final exam because they were too busy working to study properly for the midterm exam. For this they need to have the leisure time to spend on extra-curricular academic activities, which can only happen when we restore public funding for higher education and free students from the burden of work during the academic year. Extra credit may cause me some frustration, but it costs my students a lot more. It doesn’t have to be like this. Tom Sparrow Department of Philosophy

Greek life utilizes cult-like tactics for recruiting members are actually Greek letters, but the imagery of alien-worshipping frat boys is too amusing so I like to pretend. To be fair, I actually believe that it isn’t much of a stretch because fraternities and cults have more than a passing resemblance. Let’s get the obvious similarities out of the way first. Both frats Jon Janasik and cults prey on young, lonely, Commentary and susceptible individuals by promising some form of unity. Jonathan Janasik is a senior That bond is further connected by the way the members of the Professional Writing and group communicate. They call Philosophy major from each other “brothers” or “sisters” Mechanicsburg, Pa. and the as if to say that everyone was part News Editor for The Rocket. of a family. The idea that you’ll I’m convinced that frats and always be a part of the group is sororities are wearing ancient accepted and celebrated by both symbols on hooded sweatshirts in cults and frats. order to make contact with alien There seems to be a need to life forms. I know that the symbols justify the group’s unnecessary

existence. For example frats will often boast about how they do community ser vice. But you don’t need to be in a frat to do community service. Cults will say that they create lifelong friends, as if people looking for friends couldn’t simply join a book club. Of course, this wouldn’t be a problem if the underlying themes of these groups didn’t seem so sinister. Frats and cults are basically looking for two things: people’s time and money. You’ll always see both types of groups stressing the importance of recruiting and it wouldn’t be outlandish to believe that the main desire behind this is gain more manpower to get more of those two resources. The odd part is that it’s justified using completely emotional terms, like the aforementioned promise of a second family that will be with

you for an eternity. This desire to control the reputation of the groups is an admitted concern to both frats and cults. A lot of frats try to call themselves fraternities to distance themselves from the negative view that the public holds. They’re trying to distance themselves from the reputation that they themselves have created. A cult may call itself a religious institution, but if it still has all of the properties of a cult, then it still is a cult. That’s the main problem, the deceptive nature of these groups. In one hand they try to like an important happy-go lucky part of the community while still embracing the traditions that gave them their negative reputations to begin with. And when they have your trust and money, they get you with the jungle juice/Kool-Aid.

April 25, 2014

B-3

classifieds For Rent

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Utilities included. Walking distance to SRU, WiFi, refrigerator, use of kitchen/laundry, non-smokers only, clean, quiet. Available May or August. Call Jack at (412) 322-8223

888-232-3304 For Rent TWO AND FOUR BEDROOM apartments starting at $275 per person plus utilities. Within walking distance of SRU. Leases start June 2014. Call 724-679-4890 for more information.

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Slippery Rock Rentals ONE AND TWO BEDROOM cottages for rent. Available for summer, two semester, and year lease. Quiet, private environment. 1.5 miles from campus. Select places are dog friendly. Call Vicki at 724-794-4514

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COMICS Spaghett Kat COLOR

By Jack Johnehsick I know what must be done. There will be blood.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x203A;m waiting for the dinner bell to do the bell thing! Wait a second, somebody stole my Spaghetti!

COMICS

Horoscopes By Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency (MCT)

Tune in next week for the Spaghett Kat series finale! Same kat day, same kat page. I think that cat wants the dinner bell to ring!

WHO WOULD DO SUCH A THING?

Blood is gross.

Today's Birthday (04/25/14). Saturn blesses your career and finances this year (becoming obvious after 5/20). Keep organized to minimize risk. Review and revise plans and budgets. Study, travel and explore this spring. Communication opens doors and strengthens partnerships. Get creative after August to increase comfort, fun and efficiency at home. October revelations lead to new opportunities. Take a spiritual or philosophical view. Play together, and share passion. 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 6 -- You're rewarded for sticking to the rules. Work benefits from structure. The money's available. Focus attention on home and family, and talk your plans over with a trusted coach. Rely on an experienced player. Hold yourself to high standards. Follow your heart. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 6 -- Creative work leads to unexpected benefits. Rely on a friend's experience, and learn from their mistakes. Ask tough questions. Make peace with what's so. You can get what's needed. Find beauty in your own back yard. Add to it by tending your garden. Invite someone over. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 6 -- Set long-range goals. Work you really like pays the best. Friends offer good advice. Evaluate the potential carefully. Disciplined efforts at home and work bear fruit. Seek harmony and express love, through both actions and words. Get organized, and involve your network.

Brewster Rockit: Space Guy

By Tim Rickard

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 6 -- Relaxation helps you deal with workplace complications. Don't worry about the money (or spend extravagantly, but a little treat is fine). Study options, and send out for whatever you need. You're extra attractive. A romantic adventure tempts. Get delivery service and work from home. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 6 -- Disciplined efforts achieve your goals. Follow your schedule and take care with details. There's no magic involved. Your partner provides needed resources. Quality old is better than cheap new. Payback brings lovely rewards. Good news comes from far away. Share a celebratory meal. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 6 -- Share a pleasant surprise with a partner. It's better with expert assistance, focused efforts and coordination. A friend helps you keep your word for a beneficial outcome. Push your own boundaries. Romance enters the picture unbidden. Sing out, at least in the shower. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 6 -- There's money coming in, yet your frugality impresses someone important. Your reputation precedes you. Make time available to consider a collaboration. Handle basic needs first, then go for the prize. Poll your friends and relations, and get a partner involved. It could get harmonious. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 5 -- Creative planning resolves a practical issue. Family and fun take priority. It's a good time to ask for money. Do more than requested. An older person shows you how. Practice your technique. Do what you did before that worked. Rely on an old friend. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 6 -- Money talks (or at least whispers). A secret tip leads to profits. Offer encouragement, and emphasize the fun side. Your fame travels far and wide, and you can get what you need. Words get farther than actions now. Handle basic practicalities first. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 6 -- You're making a good impression. Adapt the rules for workability. A female brings beauty into your home. Keep your promises, and do the shopping. Friends help find the best deal. Provide well for your family and replenish your reserves. Make a decision you can live with. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 5 -- There's plenty of work, and others count on you. Invest in something that makes the job easier. Update your appearance with a new cut or style. Let friends know what you need, and replenish supplies. Someone in your network has a solution. Share your love and appreciation. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 6 -- Love gives you strength and inspiration. Creative efforts bear fruit, and a lucky break opens new doors. Accept a challenge if it pays well. Invest in your business to ensure you have needed supplies. Satisfy an obligation to your associates. A partner appreciates your efforts. (c)2013 BY NANCY BLACK DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Bliss

By Harry Bliss

B-6

April 25, 2014

S SPORTS

INSIDE SPORTS

NHL Playoffs In this week's "View from the Cheap Seats," Steven Bartley shares his thoughts on the penalties and their eﬀect on the NHL playoﬀs. See page C-2.

Olympic Trials Slippery Rock alumni Jeﬀ Weiss qualiﬁed for the 2016 United States Olympic Team trials in March at the 2014 Anthem Half Marathon in Virginia Beach. See page C-3.

Rock sweeps Golden Eagles

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Senior Kevin Jovanovich hits an RBI single to right ﬁeld against the University of Pitt-Johnstown Saturday. Jovanovich hit an RBI single in the top of the seventh inning in game one against Clarion Monday. He was 3-8 on the day.

Green and White dominate season series against Clarion By Ryan Barlow Rocket Contributor

The Slipper y Rock baseball team swept Clarion University for the second time this season, winning both games of a doubleheader Monday. This puts the Green and White one game behind Mercyhurst University in the PSAC West standings. Last weekend, SRU split a doubleheader with the Univeristy of PittJohnstown, which kept the Mountain Cats one game behind the Rock in the PSAC standings. The Rock controlled game one of the doubleheader, shutting out Clarion 6-0. Slippery Rock kept putting pressure on Clarion in game two, and came out with a 4-2 victory against the Golden Eagles. The wins place Slippery Rock one game behind Mercyhurst University in the PSAC West standings, and the two teams will face each other this weekend in a four game set. “It do esn't matter who you’re playing, it’s always tough sweeping a doubleheader,” head coach Jeff Messer said. “We knew we had to go in and win the doubleheader because we had some pressure on us, and out two starting pitchers (senior Anthony Naso and

freshman Preston Falascino) made a huge difference.” Naso led the Slippery Rock to victory in game one with an outstanding pitching performance. Naso pitched a complete game shutout, allowing just one hit, striking out four, and walking two. “I just had everything working on Monday,” Naso said. “I was able to get a lot of ground balls for my teammates to field. With only four strikeouts, it was big for me to be able to put a lot of balls on the ground.” Slippery Rock’s offense got going in the top of the second inning when senior Graeme Zaparzynski hit an RBI single down the right field line. Senior Will Kengor also had an RBI single in the same inning, followed by a two RBI single from junior Jake Nogalo. In the sixth inning, freshman Carson Kessler added another run to the Rock’s score with an RBI sacrifice fly to right field, scoring sophomore Jordan Faretta from third. Senior Kevin Jovanovich then topped off the Rock’s scoring in the seventh inning when he hit an RBI single to right field, scoring junior Adam Urbania from second base. Freshman Preston Falascino was on the mound

for Slippery Rock in game two, going five and one-third innings, and allowing just two runs on six Clarion hits. Senior relief pitcher John Kovalik entered the game in the middle of the sixth inning, and stayed on the mound for Slippery Rock for the remainder of the game. Kovalik struck out two batters and earned his sixth save of the season, while Falascino was earned his second win of the year. The Rock scored in the second inning of game two when redshirt-sophomore Kyle Vozar hit into a fielder's choice, but an error by Clarion second baseman allowed Kevin Jovanovich to score. Zaparzynski hit an RBI single to right field in the fourth inning, followed up by an RBI double by Will Kengor. Sophomore Alex Bell added an extra run for the Rock in the seventh inning when he hit an RBI single, scoring Kengor. The Rock will open up their final regular season series with Mercyhurst University with a doubleheader at their own Jack Critchfield Park on Friday, game one beginning at 1 p.m. The series will then head north to Erie on Saturday afternoon, where the two teams will finish the series at Mercyhurst.

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Senior Will Kengor celebrates his homerun against the University of Pitt-Johnstown Saturday with junior Jake Nogalo. Kengor was 4-8 with two RBIs against Clarion Monday.

SPORTS

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April 25, 2014

Softball splits another low-scoring doubleheader By Brian Hepﬁnger Rocket Contributor

T h e Sl ipp e r y R o ck University softball team ( 1 4 - 2 1 O ve r a l l, 9 - 1 1 PSAC) split a doubleheader with Salem International University (13-23 Overall, 5-9 G-MAC) Monday. SRU has not had a nonconference matchup since March 19th, when they lost to Caldwell College. Salem won the first game 3-1. No scoring happened until the top of the sixth inning. Salem scored all three of its runs in the inning. Senior outfielder Angela McGoldrick got things going for Salem with a solo homerun. Freshman utility Summer Clark hit a bunt single, and then senior pitcher Katie Mangold hit a single, allowing Clark to advance to second base. S o p h o m o r e c at c h e r Katie Chyrssofos then walked, allowing Clark and Mangold to both advance. Freshman utility Kylee Cassavaugh pinch ran for Mangold, and then senior pitcher Lise Couturier singled down the left field line, scoring Cassavaugh and Clark. The Rock scored its one run in the bottom of the seventh inning. Freshman catcher McKenzie Popatak h it a s i ng l e. Ju n i or outfielder Haley Sherer came into pinch run for Popatak, and then junior outfielder Alaynna Beers

hit an RBI double to right-center field, scoring Sherer. Slippery Rock continues to split every doubleheader matchup. The team has no answer as to why this continues to occur, but they do have some ideas. “We either come out strong the first game and then become relaxed during the second game, or we lose our first game and gain our focus back for the second game,” senior first basemen Kristin Kaminski said. Sophomore third basemen Ashley Samluk echoed K a m i n s k i ’s comments, saying that the team needs to have better focus. “It’s a lack of focus for the most part,” Samluk said. “We need to come ready to play for fourteen innings, not seven.” The Green and White won the second game 3-2. SRU scored the first run of the game in the bottom of the first inning. Sophomore infielder Katie Kaiser hit a solo homerun to center field. The Rock continued its scoring in the bottom of the second inning. Beers reached first base off of a fielding error by Salem’s shortstop. Senior first baseman Breanna Tongel singled, allowing Beers to advance to second base. Sophomore outfielder Megan Maloney hit a sacrifice bunt, allowing

B eers and Tongel to advance. Freshman outfielder Eliza Sykes singled to center field, allowing Beers to score, giving the Rock a 2-0 lead. Salem scored two runs in the top of the third inning. Junior utility Kayla Guta singled to left field. Guta stole second, and then advanced to third base after a single by sophomore utility Bre’Ana Felix. Clark then sing led, allowing Guta to score and Felix to advance to second base. Mangold singled to left field, allowing Felix to score, tying the game at 2-2. The Green and White capped off the game’s scoring in the bottom of the fourth inning. Tongel started things off with a single. Senior infielder Lindsey Kelenske then singled, allowing Tongel to advance to second base. Sherer pinch ran for Tongel, and eventually scored off of a fielding error by Salem’s shortstop. The Rock will look to make a playoff push this weekend. Star ting on Friday, April 24, SRU will face Edinboro University of Pennsylvania in a doubleheader. They will then face Indiana University of Pa. on Saturday, and California University of Pa. on Sunday. SRU is currently tied for fourth place in the PSAC standings.

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Sophomore Katie Kaiser throws out a runner against Mercyhurst Saturday. Kaiser hit a solo homerun in game two against Salem International University.

Penalties and fines plaguing 2014 NHL playoffs

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

Chicago Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville argues a call by the referee. Quenneville was ﬁned $25,000 for inappropriate conduct during a playoff game against the St. Louis Blues.

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

The NHL playoffs can be the most entertaining time of the year for a lot of fans. The problem is the players are playing as if there is no tomorrow. The mentality is a good thing in regards to play, but the way things are going, the games are turning more into gladiator matches. Milan Lucic for the Boston Bruins speared Detroid Red Wings' Danny DeKeyser in the groin last week. In what I thought was despicable play, Lucic only received a $5,000 fine. Not enough to make even a dent in his bank account. The worst thing for me is that he did not get suspended. He acted like a coward and hit Dekeyser from behind. Lucic is a “star” in the league which is why I think the league didn’t come down on him. Joel Quenneville was fined $25,000 for his inappropriate conduct during a game against the St. Louis Blues. He grabbed his crotch in the direction of the ref because he thought there was a bad call made. You can not hurt anyone and get $25,000 fine, but Lucic

spears a guy and gets a $5,000 fine. The inconsistency just doesn't make any sense and is an absolute disgrace to the game and its players. I have said this in the past, guys have to take care of each other. There is no need to hit a guy when you can see his numbers. Yes, the game is one of the fastest in the world, but your ability to think is still the same. As a professional in the sport you have become accustomed to the speed and need to act accordingly. There has been no precedent set for player discipline in the league. If you’re a superstar in the league, chances are you won’t see any harsh punishment coming your way. You can go out there and do whatever you want to another player and maybe get a slap on the wrist or the wallet. If you’re a third or a fourth line guy and your throw a dirty check, you are going down. As I write this article I remain unaware of Matt Cooke’s suspension for his knee-to-knee hit, but I promise you it will be harsh. Love or hate Matt Cooke, he really changed his act the last couple of years.He went from one of the dirtiest players in the league to a respectable third line guy. Now with the knee-on-knee incident, Cooke will be going down. I think it is really sad, because Cooke really has changed the way he plays the game. The Colorado Avalanche revealed how long Tyson Barrie would be out for. In most cases, no team in the playoffs will reveal what part of the body is injured or how long their player will be out for. I think the Avalance did that in order to entice the league to suspend Cooke

for a long period of time. Again the biggest thing for me is the penalties are not matching the crime. The league wants to protect their players, and that is important. They also need to be treated the same across the board. There should be little difference in first and fourth line guys when it comes to suspensions. Why should Lucic be allowed to go out of his way to spear someone and receive a fine, but a fourth line guy like Cooke would have the book thrown at him? The inconsistency is just an absolute joke from the league. They want to keep competitive hockey by not suspending stars. That isn't hockey. Seeing a guy go out and hurt another player is not hockey. I have no problem with good, clean hits, but it’s the dirty ones that gets me. There needs to be a precedent in these suspensions. Don’t give someone leniency because they're a star; have the same rules across the board for everyone. If not, the league looks like a joke and hypocrite. Saying that one action hurting someone is better than another action hurting someone. Side Note: The Pittsburgh Penguins will survive the first round of the playoffs thanks to their depth. At the point when I wrote this article; Crosby, Kunitz, Neal and Malkin still have not scored. If you told me that at the beginning of the series and say they were up 2-1, I would have not believed you. Their stars must play better and the power play has to improve if they even want to think about competing with the New York Rangers or the Philadelphia Flyers.

SPORTS Cross country alumni chases Olympic dreams

April 25, 2014

C-3

By Brittany Fagan Rocket Contributor

Jeff Weiss, a 2009 Slippery Rock University Health and Physical Education graduate and former AllPSAC distance runner, qualified for the 2016 United States Olympic Team Trials this March at the 2014 Anthem Half Marathon in Virginia Beach. As the first American finisher in the elite field and third overall, Weiss covered the 13.1 mile course in 1:04:47 averaging 4:57 per mile. This impressive time comes in just under the Trials B standard of 1:05:00, guaranteeing him a position at the trials February 13th, 2016 in Los Angeles, CA. The top three runners will be chosen to represent the U.S. in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeivo, Brazil. Weiss also qualified for the trials in 2011, making this his second visit to the Olympic Team Trial’s starting line. “The first time I qualified I was excited, just like anyone else would be. Unfortunately I didn’t have enough time before trials to turn around and get fully recovered,” Weiss said. “It was definitely an experience for me.” In order to compete at the Olympic Trials, male runners must run a half marathon faster than 1:05:00 or a full marathon faster than 2:18:00 on a certified course between August 1, 2013 and thirty days prior to the trials. “This time around I have plenty of time to prepare myself, which I’m very excited for,” Weiss said. Weiss is currently decreasing his mileage, giving himself the rest that his body will need to begin training again. Just one month prior to the race, Weiss and his good friend Patrick Reagan competed in a 10K road race in Savannah, Ga. where they both ran personal bests. Reagan, a 2010 Slippery Rock

University Exercise Science graduate and former cross country and track runner, has been Jeff ’s best running buddy since their college days. Now a head cross country and track coach at Savannah Art and Design, the two were able to meet up to run another race together. “Jeff has always been a hard worker when it comes to running,” Reagan said. “He always kept running fun, even when the training was hard. Jeff has always had the right balance between becoming a successful runner and having a life outside of it all.” Weiss currently lives in Ravenswood, WV and works as a health and physical education teacher. He said that after his competitive days are over he aspires to one day be coach of the sport. Slippery Rock Cross Country and Track and Field head coach John Papa coached Weiss at Slippery Rock and said that he remembers him just as many others do. “Jeff was aggressive and he wasn’t afraid of training hard,” Papa said. “He was a great teammate and never flaunted his accomplishments.” Reagan agreed with Papa’s statement and admires his friend's work ethic and character. “He was very modest and would always ask about your race instead of telling you about his own right away," Reagan said. "This was unique to him and very inspiring.” Looking back at his experience at Slippery Rock University, Weiss said that his decision to attend the small school is something that he will always be proud of. Having the opportunity to meet a group of people, get to know them like family and train with them every day is something that no runner ever forgets. Weiss will continue to train aggressively as he prepares for the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2016.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPORTS INFORMATION

Slippery Rock University alumni Jeff Weiss competes at a past event for the cross country team. Weiss recently qualiﬁed for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team Trials.

Nationally ranked Mercyhurst Lakers defeat Rock By Matthew Morgan Assistant Sports Editor

Against the Lakers of Mercyhurst University (14-2, 10-1 PSAC), their sixth nationally ranked opponent of the year, the Slippery Rock University women’s lacrosse team (6-10, 3-8 PSAC) fell by a final score of 15-6. Mercyhurst took the lead early in the match less than six minutes in with four goals. Slippery Rock did their best to regain ground against the Lakers with a goal by junior attacker Paige Constatino. The Lakers immediately answered with three more goals of their own to bring the score to 7-1. Junior attacker Lydia Heishman scored the second goal of the game for the Rock with five minutes remaining in the first half to bring SRU within five. Mercyhurst recorded their eighth goal of the game three minutes later to return to their six-goal lead. Senior Attacker Morgan Pettit scored two goals for SRU to end the half and set the halftime score at 8-4. Mercyhurst would claim the first goal of the second half, answered almost immediately by Pettit for her third goal of the game. The Lakers then went on a fivegoal lead spanning 14 minutes, led by junior midfielder Taylor Venture with three goals. SRU tallied one more goal from Pettit for her fourth of the game and the teams sixth, answered by another Lakers goal to bring the final score to 15-6 in favor of Mercyhurst. The Lakers of Mercyhurst ended the game with a 31-19 advantage in shots and a 19-15 advantage in ground balls. Sophomore goalie Hannah Houde was given the loss for SRU after allowing eight goals in the first half of competition. She was replaced in the second half by sophomore Jordan Wagner who allowed seven goals.

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Sophomore Kaytlin Callaghan scores a goal on Millersville University's goalie at last Friday afternoon's match. Callaghan scored two goals in the Rock's 20-12 victory.

The silver lining from both this game, as well as this season, comes from the performance of Pettit throughout her career here at the Rock. With her four goals in the game, Pettit raised her single-season total to 55 goals and her career total to 110. She now ranks third in the single-season category and fourth in career total. “Being in the record books was not my goal for this season. I would have rather not scored this whole

season and had the legacy as the first (SRU lacrosse) team to make PSAC Playoffs,” Pettit said. “I hope that “the legacy” left by me is more like fuel for someone else to want to beat and be better by beating it.” Pettit needs only three more goals in the final game of the season in order to pass alumnus Amy Hall for second in the single-season category and the same number to claim third in career to pass alumnus April Ennis. Mercyhurst was led by Ventre with

five goals and freshman midfielder Carly Zimmerman with two goals and two assists. Slippery Rock’s final game of the season will be played Saturday against their seventh nationally ranked opponent, the Lock Haven Eagles (14-2, 10-1 PSAC), whom are ranked seventh in the nation. Last seasons meeting ended in an Eagle victory by a final score of 17-6. The game is set to begin at 1 p.m. from Charlotte Smith Field in Lock Haven.

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April 25, 2014

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INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE

School's out for style? Rock 'N Fashion's Katie Ellis reviews summer fashions made for you to have your most stylish vacation yet.

Spring Fling hits the streets HOPE puts on a safe, "stressfree" street fair for students to enjoy at the end of the semester.

See Page D-2

CAMPUS LIFE

See Page D-2

Vagina Monologues: ) )

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Real Stories of Real Women

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By Stephanie Cheek Assistant Campus Life Editor

“I bet you’re worried!” This is the first line of the production of the Vagina Monologues preparing the audience for the topic of the night. Vaginas. Putting on the production of the Vagina Monologues has been a tradition of the Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance for several years with the help of the Women’s Studies department, and this year all of those involved in the performance put their own personal spin on the monologues. “You’re really able to see the women’s individual personalities shine through,” explained Brandy Geist, 22, a senior secondary education English major. Geist explained that she developed a passion for gender issues through the show, and wants to be involved in ending inequalities for women. "As a feminist, the issues discussed in the show are extremely important to me,” Geist said. Geist is the President of FMLA, and is performing in two monologues, “The Wear/ Say Lists” and “Say It”. A lot of the monologues are true stories that reflect the lives of women from not just the United States but from other countries as well. “I hope they learn about issues that they’ve never heard of before, such as the experiences of the Japanese comfort women or Bosnian refugees,” Geist explained about some of the more serious monologues. Some of the monologues are humorous, and some are serious, but they all have one thing in common: women and their vaginas. “I think it's a taboo word because female sexuality is taboo. Female physiology is taboo. We live in a society that encourages women to be ashamed or hide their vaginas and their sexuality,” explained the director of this years Vagina Monologue, Elizabeth Tatomirovich. The show is about education and community, according to Tatomirovich, and it forces the audience to be aware of the difficulties that women face just because of their sex. This show also encourages women to be aware of their own bodies as well. “Our vaginas are our own. There should be no controversy,” Tatomirovich stated. Geist agrees that while many think that

REBECCA DIETRICH / THE ROCKET Political Science Professor, Heather Frederick and senior secondary education English major, Sami Parks perform the opening monologue of the evening.

the show and the concept are controversial, she thinks that there is nothing taboo or controversial about it. “A woman’s sexuality should never be a source of stigma or shame. The stories told in The Vagina Monologues are experiences of real women,” said Geist regarding the material that is represented. Along with the educational factor of the show, the fight to end violence against women and girls is another goal that is a huge component of the show. “Women face atrocities such as rape, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and female genital mutilation. The statistics are staggering. The Vagina Monologues and V-Day campaign works to create a world where women no longer live in fear,” Geist stated. Geist further explains that there has been a long-standing tradition in history of silencing women’s voices and this is another step in the direction of change. “I think having discussions and providing

education about what it means to be a woman or a female help to end the taboo,” Tatomirovich explained. Along with the $3 ticket, they are also selling shirts for $10 that say in bold lettering “Vagina Warrior," and they are also selling baked goods. “I’m also making… unique cupcakes for the show,” Geist stated when describing her cupcakes that are decorated to look like vaginas. All of the proceeds from the show go to directly to two charities that directly impact local women, Butler County VOICe and Lawrence County crisis shelter, according to Geist. In the end, Tatomirovich explained, that everyone will leave the show with different thoughts and opinions, but hopefully they will stay in their mind. “It is my hope that the audience will think about the topics we address and make their own conclusions,” Tatomirovich said. “There can’t be one message for everyone, different monologues will affect people differently.” ({})

Relay for Life at SRU prepares to "knock cancer out of the park" By Katie Ellis Rocket Contributor

Celebrate, remember, and fight back. These words symbolize the American Cancer Society, and its mission to bring awareness of cancer through fundraising events held across the country, the latest of which is being held at Slippery Rock University. This year’s Relay for Life fundraiser, which raises money for the American Cancer Society, will be held overnight from Friday, April 25, until the morning of Saturday the 26 at the Morrow Field House. Teams of students, faculty, and members of the Slippery Rock community will be walking and participating in activities aimed at bringing awareness to this major health concern. Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) is one of the organizations participating in the event. Members of its executive board, including vice president Nicole Short, 20, strongly believe

in the cause and have made Relay for Life a mandatory event for new members. “This spring it’s one of two mandatory events that our new members must complete to be inducted,” Short said. “We feel like it’s a very good cause and we thought that this would be a good way to get as many people from our organization involved as possible.” Short, a junior early childhood and special education major, is one of 30 members of KDP who has been selling t-shirts for the past few weeks, with a portion of their sales being donated to the American Cancer Society. The t-shirts have the names of loved ones on the back who have survived, are still fighting, and have passed away from cancer to commemorate their fight, she said. President of Sigma Sigma Sigma Becca Oberle, 21, a junior

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Relay for Life is an annual event and for promotion students could get their pictures taken giving the reason that they relay. The signs are going to be used to decorate for the event.

psychology and social work major, organization whose mission to raise is attending Relay for Life with her funds for those in need, aligns with sorority sisters to raise money for their own philanthropic values. the American Cancer Society, an Oberle and her sisters are making SEE STUDENT, PAGE D-3

CAMPUS LIFE

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April 25, 2014

Summer essentials embrace skater, hipster vibes

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

Summer is finally on the horizon with only one week of classes left to sit through, and the ever stressful finals week to overcome. Although it may seem eons away, now is the perfect time to start thinking about the best items to buy, to ensure that you’ll be looking fashionable all summer long. Patterned sneakers, cutof f shorts, and edgy accessories are the biggest trends for the season because they can be incorporated into any wardrobe with ease. There are more opportunities to experiment with fashion in the summer than there are in the spring and fall, which makes it the perfect time for fashionistas to try the trends that they’ve been lusting over since snow was on the ground. No one does fun, eye-catching sneakers for girls on a budget quite like Vans. While they may be popular among skateboarders and the hipster crowd, these shoes are catching on with girls across the country. These sneakers can be paired with a variety of ensembles like sundresses, a crop top and flirty skirt, or jeans and a T-shirt. The classic Vans are the perfect choice for fans of the brand and first-time buyers. Their iconic design features a thick white sole, and a colored tab that coordinates with the design printed on the canvas body of the shoe. The Classic Mu lt i Floral Authentic Slim Vans have a vibrant

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS Vans sneakers will be the most sought after staple for the summer season, as they will fit in well with a variety of styles. Hollywood's favorite accessory is the perfect trend to try as it will be in style throughout the summer, and well into the winter months.

background decorate d wit h hydrangea and rose blooms in shades of pink, blue, and orange, and is offset by contrasting white laces. For just $55, you’ll be able to slip your feet into these stylish shoes that’ll earn you compliments all summer long. Unlike the floral version, the Classic Cosmic Galaxy Authentic Lo Pro sneakers are significantly darker in hue, but are still just as fresh for sunny school-free days. This shoe comes in two patterns, Galaxy Black/True White and Nebula/True White, and is given a modern update with black laces and a matching stripe on the sole. The unique aspect of these shoes is that because of the way the pattern is printed on them, no two pairs are alike. This one-of-a-kind pair of Vans sells for just $55. Cut-off shorts are more popular than ever this season, thanks to their move away from silhouettes that are solely denim colored, while the tried and true original

has been given a few updates. Traditionally cutoff shorts are high-cut and distressed, but this summer stores like American Eagle and Forever 21 have decided to try something new. The improved AE High-Rise Festival Shortie in mint is highwaisted and has a subtly fringed hemline, which would pair well with a crop top or a tucked-in tank top for hot summer days. These chic shorts from American Eagle can be yours for just $40. Forever 21 has also decided to capitalize on this trend with their Sunday Funday Denim Shorts that retail for only $17.80. Much like the original cutoff shorts, this pair features distressed patches and a fringed hemline, but are given an inventive twist with an embroidered red belt reminiscent of a tribal print. Don’t be afraid to pair these shorts with tops in a variety of colors in spite of their loud pattern, after all, summer is the perfect time to try new styles.

Ear cuffs have been seen on celebrities from Miley Cyrus to Jennifer Lawrence for months now, but the summer months are where this trend is going to take off. Only one ear cuff needs to be worn at a time, making it an edgier jewelry statement than regular earrings. The Hermes Ear Cuff from Bauble Bar comes in two pieces, one large and one small, with the larger piece to be worn over the ear lobe, and the small portion to be worn near the top of the ear. Because it comes in two pieces, you can choose whether or not to wear them together for an unexpected look. It comes in either clear or gray, and features a crystal fan design. Order this piece today for just $28, and plan on wearing it all summer long. With only two weeks separating you from summer, start planning your summer shopping lists now, fashion fans!

Where are all the quality sitcoms? Ask Andi

Rebecca Marcucci "Channel Surfing" Rebecca Marcucci is a senior journalism major and the Campus Life editor of The Rocket.

I know nothing about “Game of Thrones.” I’ve never watched an episode of “The Walking Dead.” I hear “Breaking Bad” was a good show. I’m in the TV minority. In a world of so much adapted adventure programming, it seems I am so Nick at Nite. Many television sitcoms have appeared never to return again. But what is it about TV shows that hold our attention? Is it the drama? Because I know I’d rather unwind with a good laugh. Never mind the fact that I would come home from school and turn on “SpongeBob SquarePants,” during my elementar y school days. Then I would wait until eight or nine when “The Cosby Show” or “Full House” would come on and that was my treat. So there wasn't any blood shed or meth dealings in these shows, but you can bet those Huxtable kids had the talk about drugs with Cliff and Claire, or DJ learned her body was beautiful and that she didn't need to starve herself to be seen

as beautiful. So maybe that got a little too after-school special, but what really drew me in were the laughs. I watch these shows today and think, “Man, I would love a hug from Danny Tanner after the long day I just had.” or “If I could just watch Bill Cosby dance in a brightly-patterned sweater, my week would be made.” These shows give me a sense of stability with their family values and how they try to treat each character with respect. I realize it’s G-rated of me to want nothing but these shows. But I just want sitcoms with characters that feel like family. Anyone that knows me realizes I am going through “How I Met Your Mother” withdrawals. It might not be healthy and I may never get over it. I guess I’m just looking for a show to fill that void in the meantime. I need to come to grips with reality that someday it will be taken off Netflix and syndication everywhere and I just won’t know what to do except buy the season DVDs and watch them alone with a box of Cheez-Its. But there is hope, I know there is! Someday “Friends” and “How I Met Your Mother” references will be irrelevant and I won’t know how to conform to society and talk to people about present day happenings. Maybe I will break down and step away from my sitcoms and dive into an adventure-packed show, that is until a better sitcom makes itself known. But for now I don’t see that happening, so don’t mind me if I’m the cheesy grandparent making references you don’t understand for the next 40 years. Maybe one day I’ll find a show that will make life worth living…or I could live my own life, you know, whichever comes first!

Andi is a senior at SRU giving advice to those who seek it and occassionally to those who don't.

Question: Dear Andi, How often should I wash my pants? I only have one pair. Please help. Sincerely,

Answer:

Pantsless

Dear Pantsless, I commend you on your simplistic lifestyle. As the owner of far to many pairs of jeans, I applaud your minimalist mindset. As far as your question, I would believe that as long as your pants aren't giving off an offensive smell or have questionable stains, you're golden pony boy. Or if they get so baggy that even the smallest of belts can't keep them up. Like my friend Nick says, "I never wash my pants. I like to keep the night on them."

April 25, 2014

CAMPUS LIFE

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HOPE Spring Fling aims to de-stress students By Kelsey Reese Rocket Contributor

The sun came out just in time as students made their way to this year’s Spring Fling on Wednesday April 23, sponsored by the Healthy Outreach through Peer Education (HOPE) organization on campus. HOPE provides important health-related information to college students on a variety of issues including underage and dangerous drinking, safer sex practices, stress management, prevention of sexually transmitted infections, and healthy living. Spring fling is a way for students to attend an event that promotes healthy and safe choices as the year comes to a close. Su z an n e D u l a k , a 2 0 - ye ar-old sophomore and resort, recreation and hospitality management major and HOPE Peer Educator, said that the event, spanning from Watson Hall to Building A, was a way to get students involved in doing something fun. “Spring Fling is basically an event to provide students on campus with a ‘street fair’ type of event, where free food, tie-dying, face painting, was provided,

along with music by WSRU,” Dulak said. “There were also two performances by the SRU Illusions team and Jam Rock.” Dulak said that despite the cold weather, that the staff was hopeful for a great turnout. “This is our second year doing the event and last year we had a great turnout,” Dulak said. “Last year we only expected 200 students to come to the event and 500 ended up coming.” Renee Bateman, the Coordinator for Health Promotion at the Student Health Center and an inactive administrative figure for HOPE talked about how much work went into planning an event such as Spring Fling. “A lot of work goes into planning an event like this,” Bateman said. “It takes a lot of sponsoring and outreach to different organizations and departments on campus. Back in the fall we had the event marked on our calendars, and we had the date picked out for over a year. We’ve spent the last two months planning for the event.” Bateman also explained the reason that HOPE has put on the event for the second year in a row.

“The event’s purpose is a safe, fun activity for students,” Bateman said. “It’s also to celebrate the end of the academic year and to try to reduce risky behavior that comes with this stressful time of year. Even though the event isn’t going all night, it can still provide students with a safe and fun outlet.” HOPE Peer Educator Nicholas Jones, a 21-year-old senior public health major, was one of the driving forces that helped promote the event. Jones explained what his specific role was in helping put the event together. “Each of us play equal roles as HOPE Peer Educators,” Jones said. “I feel as though I’m the glue this year. I helped bring ideas together, and also helped with outreach to make the event cohesive. I really enjoyed reaching out to the

so that was great. I really wanted to be the optimistic person that supported us with the network.” Jones, like Bateman, also said that the event was a great alternative for students to do something other than being pressured into going out and drinking or participating in other unsafe habits, and help provide students with a healthy substitute. Jones also said that he felt the event is a good time to connect with people especially at the end of the year when we are all stressed. “I think it’s important while we are here as students to take time to focus on ourselves and having fun in a safe way,” Jones said. “I think it’s important for all of us to know that we are only human and

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOPE PEER EDUCATORS HOPE Peer Educators Elise Augustine and Curtis Hanner make silly faces in front of the paint splattered photo wall with handmade props.

Association of Residence Hall Students (ARHS) this year and promoting the cosponsorship. ARHS was one of the largest groups we got to help us sponsor this year

that we’re stretched in so many different ways at school and I think we’re all neglecting to have fun and to give time to other people.”

Students prepare to rally together for a cause Continued from Page D 1

it a mission to become more involved with the event than in years past, in part, because of Lauren Hart, a fellow Tri-Sigma sister. “We do Relay every year, but Lauren has been a huge part of the reason why we’ve raised so much money this year,” Oberle said. In addition to being involved with Tri-Sigma, Hart, 20, a sophomore public health major with a double minor in psychology and adapted physical activity, is involved with Colleges Against Cancer (CAC). She became involved with the organization after her friend died

from cancer, and this year, she has made a unique pledge to raise money on her sorority’s behalf. “We’ve raised about $725 for Relay for Life this year, and I’ve raised about $500 of that,” Hart said. “If I raise $600, I’m donating eight inches of my hair.” The American Society of Safety Engineers also held a competition for safety management students that raised $941.22 for the department’s Relay for Life team, according to department secretary Patti Pink. The event wouldn’t be possible without the members of CAC, who host Relay for Life annually. Alex Nietert, 20, serves on the

organization’s executive board as its liaison in charge of coordinating with the teams participating. The junior early childhood and special education major sends out emails and communicates with team captains in advance of the fundraiser. “I run the team captain meetings, and oversee team recruitment and development for CAC,” Nietert said. “I wanted to do something to be a part of it.” CAC President, Olivia Giger, 21, a senior psychology major with a double minor in exceptionalities and business administration, has played a huge role in Friday’s event. She helped to pick the theme for this

year which is, “Knocking Cancer Out of the Park, One Swing at a Time.” “This theme shows that the fight against cancer can be fun, but it’s a serious game,” Giger said. “It’s really a team effort.” The fundraising goal for this year’s event is $50,000-$60,000. At the end of the 12-hour period, Giger hopes that the 800 students and 80 teams that have registered will meet this goal. “As a whole we can beat cancer together,” Giger said. “I feel like Slippery Rock could push cancer to its limit. Relay for Life can really benefit from being here.”

Student Government Association Last Senate meeting of the year! Monday May 5th 8:45pm in the Robert M. Smith Student Center

Friday at 4pm and 8pm Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 8pm in the Robert M. Smith Student Center

@SRSGA

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April 25, 2014

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