10-22-21 Digital Edition

BRANDON PIERCE / THE ROCKET

LGBTQ+ History Month

the rocket

Friday October 22, 2021 • Volume 105, Issue Number 3 • An Independent, Student-Run Newspaper

www.theonlinerocket.com

Dave Chappelle sparks backlash

By Joe Wells News Editor

W i t h b a c k l a s h ov e r D a v e C h a p p e l l e’s l a t e s t c o m e d y special continuing, more than 60 workers walked out of Netflix’s headquar ters Wednesday morning in protest of the company keeping the show online.

Chappelle’s latest special “ The Closer” was released on Oct. 5, with numerous calls for the show to be pulled for transphobic remarks during his stand-up routine, according to some Netflix employees and LGBTQ suppor ters.

The comedy special has prompted demands from Trans* E m p l o y e e R e s o u r c e G r o u p ( E RG ) a t Ne t f l i x f o r t h e company to invest in transgender content and creators, increase employee relations and safety and reduce harm found in their conten t and in the workplace.

SEE EMPLOYEE PAGE A-2

PHOTO COURTESY OF REUTERS / YURI GRIPAS ~ STOCK.ADOBE.COM

SRU back in the spirit

By Joe Wells News Editor

With a relaxation of the rules surrounding campus gatherings, Slippery Rock University (SRU) has issued double the number of alcohol permits compared to the previous year.

So far, SRU has issued 23 alcohol permits in 2021 with a majority approved since the beginning of the summer. Last year, the university issued 11.

2020 also saw a shutdown of the campus in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Eight of the approved permits were for events to be held after the shutdown.

The Rocket received the permits for 2020 and 2021 from the university through records requests.

Records going back to at least 2018 could not be provided by the university.

Alcohol permits are provided to faculty and staff for events at no cost with individuals from outside the university having to pay $10.

According to the permits, many of the staff-hosted events that serve alcohol revolve around alumni functions.

This past homecoming weekend saw six approved permits for alumni events totaling more than 700 expected guests. While not every permit application disclosed the exact amount of alcohol to be served, most said they would have enough to serve one to two drinks per person attending.

News

Three new inductees

"The [President's] Tent provide the university president with a place to entertain guests and donors."

– Dennis Washington, Vice President of University Advancement

Along with different events across campus providing alcohol, SRU hosted its regularly scheduled tailgate for The Rock Football home game.

The university has its own policy when it comes to tailgating.

Those participating in tailgating activities can only do so three hours prior to the start time and will be charged $10 per vehicle.

Pedestrians wishing to tailgate will not be charged a fee but must have their alcohol in a cooler.

Participants are only allowed to drink beer or wine from 12-ounce cans A-3

or cups. Liquor, kegs and devices such as beer bongs are not allowed. Selling and reselling of alcohol is not allowed either.

Inside MihalikThompson Stadium, alcohol consumption is not allowed except in the area known as the President’s Tent. Run by the University Advancement Office, the tent provides food, along with beer and wine.

“The (President’s) Tent provides the university president with a place to entertain guests and donors of the Rock Athletic Club,” said Dennis Washington, vice president of university advancement.

Do n o r s o f $ 5 0 0 o r more are provided with access to the tent and tickets to the game. Food is provided by Aramark, the university’s vendor for the campus.

Opinion

SRU fails to rock the shot

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As for the beer and wine provided, that is paid for by donations, according to Roberta Page, the athletics chair. The department works with Slippery Rock’s North Country Brewing C o m p a n y t o p rov i d e beer, said Page. She was unaware of how much the department spends on alcohol or receives in donations for those purchases.

The athletics department d o e s re c e i ve f u n d i n g through the Slippery Rock St u d e n t G o v e r n m e n t Association (SRSGA) but, according to SRSGA Vice President of Finance Sydney Rezzetano, none is used for the tent. SRSGA policy also prohibits the use of funds for alcohol, Rezzetano said.

Despite allowing those with a permit to host events and serve alcohol, SRU

Sports

Allies for athletes

prohibits students, even those of legal age, from possessing or consuming alcohol unless at permitted events. Students caught with alcohol on campus will receive a written warning and have to attend an alcohol and other drug (AOD) program. A second offense would result in disciplinar y probation and again attending the AOD program. The third violation would result in suspension from the university for at least one semester.

A review of Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) universities’ alcohol policies found only two allow students to drink in their dorms.

Clarion University allows those of legal age to drink in its Reinhard Villages. Those dorms allow for two or four students to live together.

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Indiana University of Pennsylvania also allows students to drink in their apartment style residence halls.

Both universities state that it is against its code of conduct to share alcohol with those that are not of age.

T h e Un i v e r s i t y o f Pittsburgh also allows students of legal drinking age to possess and drink alcohol in their dorm rooms.

Slippery Rock Un i ve r s i t y w a s a b l e t o p r ov i d e s o m e d a t a on student alcohol violations.

Data p r o v i d e d b y Pa t r i c k Beswick, director of re s i d e n c e l i f e , s h owe d the university had issued 288 furnishing alcohol to minors violations since 2013. During that same period, 712 underage violations were issued.

Campus Life

Pride week at SRU

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VIDEO: 2021 SRU Media Hall of Fame acceptance speeches

NEWS

Employee fired

CONTINUED FROM PAGE A-1 Transgender employees at Netflix, such as Terra Field, have said the airing and promotion of Chappelle’s stand-up promote transexclusionary radical feminist (TERF) ideology.

During his set, Chappelle declared himself a TERF. “They canceled JK R o w l i n g , m y G o d ,” Chappelle said.

“Effectually, she said gender was fact, the trans community got mad as s--, they started calling her a TERF… I’m team TERF.” Field, along with two other Netflix employees, were suspended after listening to a quarterly business meeting. Field, who works as a software engineer, was reinstated on Oct. 12, after Netflix determined she did not join the meeting with any ill intent and was given a link to the meeting by a supervisor.

The leader of the t r a n s g e n d e r e m p l oy e e resource group, who helped organize the walkout, was fired on Oct. 15 for allegedly leaking company data about the Chappelle special to the press, as was first reported by The Verge.

A Netflix spokesperson told The Verge that they understand the former

employee was hurt and “may have been motivated by disappointment,” but a culture of trust and transparency is core to the organization.

The focus moved from Chappelle to Netflix’s l e a d e r s h i p a f t e r Te d Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix, said they would not be removing the content.

“We know that a number of you have been left angry, disappointed and hurt by our decision to put Dave Chappelle’s latest special on Netflix,” Sarandos wrote in an email last week, first reported by Variety. “While some employees disagree, we have a strong belief that content on screen doesn’t directly translate to realworld harm.”

In an Oct. 18 interview with Variety, Sarandos said he could have done better with his messaging to employees.

“Obviously, I screwed up that internal communication,” Sarandos said. “First and foremost, I should have led with a lot more humanity. Meaning, I had a group of employees who were definitely feeling pain and hurt from a decision we made. And I think that needs to be

acknowledged upfront before you get into the nuts and bolts of anything.”

Sarandos has not spoken out about the walkout.

Chappelle has not spoken about the walkout or the backlash to the press but did address it to those at a show at the Hollywood Bowl, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

“If this is what being canceled is like, I love it,” Chappelle told the crowd.

“F--- Twitter, F--- NBC News, ABC News, all these stupid a-- networks. I’m not talking to them. I’m talking to you. This is real life.”

Outrage has also c o m e f ro m LG T B Q + organizations such as the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD).

“Dave Chappelle's brand has become synonymous with ridiculing trans people and other marginalized c o m m u n i t i e s ,” the organization said in a Twitter post. “Negative reviews and viewers loudly condemning his latest special is a message to the industry that audiences don't support platforming anti-LGBTQ diatribes. We agree.”

Trans* Netflix's letter to company Over the past few weeks, it has become clear that there are many places where Netflix still has to grow when it comes to content relating to the trans and nonbinary community.

The Trans* Employee Resource Group, which includes trans and non-binary colleagues as well as our numerous allies, wants Netflix to immediately take the steps below to begin to repair the relationship between the Company, our colleagues, and our audience. Specifically, we want the Company to adopt measures in the areas of Content Investment, Employee Relations and Safety, and Harm Reduction, all of which are necessary to avoid future instances of platforming transphobia and hate speech, and to account for the harm we have caused and will continue to cause until the below measures are put in place.

Content Investment Create a new fund to specifically develop trans and non-binary talent This fund should support both above-theline (ATL) and below-the-line (BTL) talent;

This fund should exist in addition to the existing Creative Equity Fund; Increase investment in trans and nonbinary content on Netflix comparable to our total investment in transphobic content, including marketing and promotion; Invest in multiple trans creators to make both scripted and unscripted programs across genres; Revise internal processes on commissioning and releasing potential harmful (“sensitive”) content, including but not limited to involving parties who are a part of the subject community and can speak to potential harm, or consulting with 3rd party experts/vendors; Increase the ERG role in conversations around potentially harmful content and ensure we have best in class regional support on complicated intersectional diversity issues; Hire trans and non-binary content executives, especially BIPOC, in leading positions.

'You can have it, but just barely'

By Emma Velesig Assistant News Editor

The legalization of medical marijuana in Pennsylvania was a huge milestone in the state’s history. Its use at Slippery Rock University has been a little different, though.

Early in September, a CA reported to the SRU police department that a student was smoking in their dorm room and it could be smelled from the hallway. When the officer arrived to speak to the student, they showed the officer that they had a medical marijuana card.

Despite having proof that the cannabis being smoked was legal, the student was referred to student standards.

“Slippery Rock University is subject to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act,” David Wilmes, Chief Student Affairs Officer, said.

“A federal law which requires colleges and universities to establish policies that address unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs. Marijuana is still considered an illicit drug under the federal schedule and therefore is not allowed on college property per the Drug-Free Schools Act.” The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act was instated in 1989 by Congress and has since been left untouched and unamended despite the changes to the legal statutes of cannabis from state to state. This is due to the fact that cannabis is still illegal federally.

Although medical marijuana is recognized by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, this federal law overrules state law. That means if a student with their medical card wishes to safely smoke without risk of being

cited, they have to leave university property.

Codey Smith, a senior healthcare administration major, spoke about his experience after getting his medical card.

"It comes down to state power at this point," Smith said. "Even though it is legal for me now, there are all these restrictions.

"You can't have it out of its container, dispensaries aren't allowed to sell papers because joints are still illegal, and a lot of things like that. It's like you can have it, but just barely."

Jo h n Fe t t e r m a n i s the current lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania.

Fetterman has always been an avid supporter of the decriminalization and recreational legalization of marijuana in Pennsylvania.

His stance on cannabis has been a focal point during his campaign for U.S. Senate.

In 2019, Fetterman hosted an unbiased listening tour across the state to hear the opinions of the citizens on the topic of legalization, alongside Governor Tom Wolf. At the time, nearly 70% of all Pennsylvanian citizens were in favor

of approving adult-use cannabis legalization and “near-unanimous support for removing cannabis from its current classification as a Schedule 1 drug, alongside deadly drugs like heroin,” as reported at the end of their tour.

I n B u t l e r C o u n t y, specifically, 88% of the 275 total responses were for legalization, with 9% being against and 3% being undecided.

Although state representatives have been working to adjust these laws for the use of cannabis, the SRU community must still follow the guidelines of the federal act. Bills to create the legalization of recreational use have attempted to be passed, but still, nothing has been concretely assembled.

Students who are caught with medical marijuana on campus can face disciplinary probation and referral to a drug treatment program. A third offense would result in a minimum one semester suspension.

"It's a medication," Smith said. "I know that's a super millennial idea, but it's true."

October 22, 2021

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Media HOF inducts three alumni

"It's humbling to be honored with folks who have done so much after graduating."

By Joe Wells News Editor

Slippery Rock U n i v e r s i t y ’ s Department of Strategic Communication and Media inducted t h re e a l u m n i i n t o i t s H a l l o f Fa m e d u r i n g Homecoming Weekend on Oct. 15 and honored four others with awards.

While the three inductees all hail from the same department, their careers after graduation have been varied.

M a r a Ku d r i c k , c l a s s of 1998, graduated with a communication degree and served as the vice president of public relations for the University Program Board during her time a t S R U . To d a y s h e s e r ve s a s t h e Di re c t o r of Development for the College of Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU).

At CMU, Kudrick coordinates planning of the department’s major gift program for CMU’s Pittsburgh campus along with its Africa campus in Kigali, Rwanda.

Despite not working in media during her career, Kudrick said the honor says a lot about the value of a communication degree from SRU. “(This honor) speaks to the fact that a communication degree, i t d o e s n’t f i t i n t o a defined box,” Kudrick said. “The skills I learned as a student allowed me to explore many different options in the field.”

Kudrick added she was honored that her path led her into higher education.

Kevin Scher’s 36 years with McCann Worldwide would not have been possible if it weren’t for persistence, education and a fire being lit while studying cognitive psychology in Bailey Library one night in 1978.

“I would argue that education is the indispensable yang to the p e r s i s t e n c y’s y i n ,” t h e class of 1981 graduate Scher said. “Insight, knowledge, the ability to think for oneself, that is the secret sauce. “ T h a t’s w h a t e n a b l e s oppor tunity and that’s what moves the world,” S c h e r s a i d . “ T h a t ’s what moves my world forward.”

That secret sauce h a s t a k e n S c h e r f ro m a reporter for The Rocket to a secretary at Young and Rubicam to executive vice president and executive business director at McCann Worldwide.

Ryan Muldowney, class of 2005, was the Hall o f Fa m e’s t h i r d a n d

"The skills I learned as a student allowed me to explore many different options in the field. " – Mara Kudrick, Class of 1998, 2021 Communication and Media Hall of Fame Inductee

– Aaron Marrie, 2021 Mike McHugh Undergradate Excellence Award winner RAYNI SHIRING/ THE ROCKET

The Communication and Media Hall of Fame was back in person after going virtual in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The sold-out event, held at the Smith Student Center Theater was packed with over 80 faculty, alumni and students.

youngest ever inductee.

Muldowney, an Emmynominated producer, has worked on the Discovery series “Homestead Re s c u e” a s t h e s e n i o r p r o d u c e r, w r i t e r a n d editor.

Muldowney, who started as a computer science m a j o r, s w i t c h e d t o journalism after making friends involved with the student-run television station, eventually becoming host, executive producer and editor of the late-night talk show “Gettin’ Later.”

“I discovered the path I wanted to take toward my degree,” Muldowney said. “Not to mention those early computer s c i e n c e c l a s s e s we re n’t going very well for me.”

T h a t s h ow w o u l d b e Muldowney’s break into reality television after a t e l e v i s i o n p ro d u c e r i n Los Angeles stumbled upon the program and began talking to Mu l d o w n e y. Hi s f i r s t

Re c e i v i n g t h i s y e a r’s Lifetime Achievement Award was Ed Coughlin, class of 1987. A two-time E m m y Aw a rd - w i n n i n g e x e c u t i v e p r o d u c e r, Coughlin is the owner of Cognitive Production & Development, a media company based in McDonough, Georgia.

D u r i n g h i s c a r e e r, Coughlin produced more than 500 magazine-style and nonscripted programs for companies like ESPN, FOX, SpeedChannel and Discovery Communications.

C u r r e n t l y, C o u g h l i n produces the primetime program “Caffeine & Octane" for Discover y C o m m u n i c a t i o n’s Ve l o c i t y C h a n n e l f o r five seasons. He is also working on a second project, “Caffeine and Exotics Live.”

In order to get to where h e i s t o d a y, C o u g h l i n said he had to put in hard work from the beginning

the hard work provided him with opportunity after opportunity upon graduation ultimately giving him his choice in different outlets to work at including CNN, ESPN and the CBS affiliate in Atlanta.

For ever ything he has accomplished, he has SRU to thank, Coughlin said.

“I don’t know if I ever realized it until this a w a rd … I ’m g r a t e f u l t o S l i p p e r y R o c k ,” Coughlin said.

“I owe it to them for teaching me that hard work equals opportunity equals choice.”

Telling Stories The department and alumni association also h o n o re d t h e l a t e C a r l Laughner with the Jim Aronson Founders Award.

A 1949 graduate of S RU , L a u g h n e r w o u l d return years later as an assistant professor in the English department. In

Ho n e y t h e n t o l d t h e audience a stor y about when she was a teenager.

Her father would say, “if you come up with a good and logical argument for something, I will consider it.” It was how he became the advisor for WNFT, Honey said.

“WNFT at the time and the debate team that he worked with, were part of his stories long after the events themselves h a p p e n e d ,” Honey said. “ They were ver y important to him.”

Recent Grad Standouts Fo r t h i s y e a r’s Mi k e McHugh undergraduate Excellence Award, two re c e n t g r a d u a t e s w e re honored, something that had only happened once before in 2019.

Class of 2021 alumni Ha n n a h Sh u m s k y a n d Aaron Marrie both ser ved on The Rocket and WSRU-TV during their time at SRU. During their last year on The Rocket, the student

RAYNI SHIRING / THE ROCKET

The Communication and Media Hall of Fame Class of 2021 inductees and award winners. From left: Aaron Marrie, Hannah Shumsky, Kevin Scher, Wendy Honey, Mara Kudrick and Ed Coughlin.

job after graduation was as a casting assistant on “Vas o No Vas,” the Te l e m u n d o ve r s i o n o f “Deal or No Deal.”

According to the Media Hall of Fame, inductees must have 15 years of experience in the field of communication or media along with demonstrating leadership, service to the profession and “superior p e r f o r m a n c e ov e r t h e course of their career.”

Originally the Rock Me d i a H a l l o f Fa m e , the Communication and Media Hall of Fame has inducted 33 alumni since its inception. Its largest inaugural class, 2016, had 11 inductees.

T h i s y e a r ’s s o l d - o u t c e re m o n y w a s h e l d i n the Smith Student Center Theater. Over 80 faculty, staff, students and alumni attended the event.

Hard Work = Opportunity A l o n g w i t h t h e Ha l l o f Fa m e i n d u c t e e s , f o u r a l u m n i re c e i ve d a w a rd s for their work during and after their time at S RU .

when SRU delayed his entr y to the university and said he would have to first attend community college and earn at least a 3.5 grade point average.

“That challenge Slippery Rock put forth to work hard presented o p p o r t u n i t i e s h e r e ,” Coughlin said during his acceptance speech.

“I started taking pictures at The Rocket, I started writing stories, I started selling ads.

“That hard work in that s e m e s t e r a t Mi d d l e s e x Community College, then led to a great internship program by Dr. William Barnett.”

I n i t i a l l y, C o u g h l i n thought he would graduate and enter the advertising world but during his senior year, a u n i ve r s i t y t e l e v i s i o n studio opened up at a building right off Main St r e e t , “p l a n t i n g t h a t seed” sending him off to Atlanta.

Being able to take the Slippery Rock name and write his own script, Coughlin said

1970, he moved into an administrative role as the first director of alumni affairs until 1978.

During his time working at SRU, Laughner coached the debate team and served as the advisor to the university radio station, WNFT, an AM radio station.

In a video played during the ceremony, Laughner was asked if there was anything he missed about working at SRU. “I miss the teaching,” Laughner said. “I missed it when I became alumni director."

“Teaching is good if you like it and if you do well at it, it’s something that you become attached to just as if it were your wife.”

L a u g h n e r’s d a u g h t e r, Wendy Honey, accepted the award on his behalf.

“One of the things he liked doing the best was teaching and he wanted to teach people how to communicate effectively,” Honey said. “One of the ways he did that was by telling stories.”

newspaper took home m o re t h a n 3 0 a w a rd s with Shumsky at the helm as editor-in-chief a n d Ma r r i e s e r v i n g a s the paper’s multimedia editor.

Shumsky said her time with the organizations she served with had “c h a n g e d ( h e r ) l i f e f o re v e r.” He r t i m e a s editor-in-chief helped p re p a re t h e s e c o n d a r y English major and strategic communication and media minor to teach English to 10th and 11th grade students a t St a t e C o l l e g e A re a School District. “ I ’m grateful to c o n t i n u e t h e l e g a c y,” Shumsky said about how it felt to be honored alongside other alumni.

M a r r i e a g r e e d . “ It ’s humbling to be honored with folks who have done so much after graduating,” he said.

Both reflected on how far there is for them to go in their careers. Marrie said that some honorees had been married for 3 0 ye a r s , l o n g e r t h a n

either of them has been alive. Shumsky pointed out that Hall of Fame inductee Kudrick graduated the same year she was born.

Fr o m t h e h o n o r s t o finally being a part of large gathering on campus after the pandemic limited events such as the Hall of Fame felt all too “surreal” to Shumsky.

After the event, honorees, including some member of the class of 2020 Hall of Fame that did not have an in-person event last year, and students talked about what students are doing now on campus to prepare them for careers after college while giving a tour of the television studio, radio station and Rocket office.

M a n y, including 1982 graduate Bill Cummings, were amazed at how far facilities like the television studio had come along. “ To d a y’s s t u d e n t s a re ver y for tunate to have this equipment available t o t h e m ,” C u m m i n g s said.

Coughlin said when the television studio opened his senior year, they had no light grid and were using cue cards. “ Yo u h a ve e ve r y t h i n g here to light, direct, floor manage and host,” Coughlin said.

Br i t t a n y Fl e m i n g , a n associate professor who put together this y e a r ’s H a l l o f Fa m e , said events like this help foster student and alumni relations which she sees as vital to the success of students.

“Communication and M e d i a H a l l o f Fa m e is one way that we create and maintain these relationships, which opens doors for internship and job opportunities for our students,” Fleming said.

“The caliber of alumni our department produces can be illustrated in the biographies of our inductees and awardwinners, and we are so proud to honor them annually at this event.”

To nominate a SRU graduate for the 2022 Media Hall of Fame, scan the QR code.

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October 9 – Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) requested assistance with a domestic issue in the Grove apartments. All those involved were spoken to and one party left. PSP handled the situation from there.

October 9 – PSP requested assistance for a person(s) throwing rocks and spitting on cars at the Grove apartments. The people involved were stopped and PSP handled the situation.

October 9 – Borough police requested assistance with a domestic issue on Elm Street. Both parties were talked to and one person left the residence.

October 9 – Police received a call for an individual who passed out at the Smith Student Center. The person refused an ambulance and treatment.

October 9 – Borough Police requested assistance with a traffic stop on Vincent Road and a citation was issued.

October 10 – Police received a call for an individual missing from Watson Hall. A report was taken and a notification was sent to the surrounding police departments. The person was located and was fine.

October 10 – PSP requested assistance in response to a motorcycle accident. One person fled the area and could not be found. PSP filed the accident report.

October 12 – Police received a call for an accident on Rock Pride Drive. A vehicle stuck another vehicle while backing out of a parking space. There were no injuries and the operators exchanged their required information. No further police action was taken.

October 13 – Police received two fire alarm activations from Building F. For the first call, Safety found light smoke coming from a room that is currently not occupied. Maintenance was notified and the alarm system was reset. For the second call, the officers on scene were unable to find the reason for the alarm activation. Safety was notified and the system was reset.

October 14 – Police responded to an individual who possibly passed out at the University Union.

The individual refused medical treatment and was transported back to their dorm at Rhoads Hall.

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October 15 – Police received a fire alarm activation from ROCK Apartment #2. Safety on location found the cause to be from burnt food and the system was reset.

October 16 – Police responded to an Ephone activation on Maltby Avenue. No one was found in the area and the system was reset.

October 16 – Pennsylvania State Police used the Datamaster at the university police station for a possible DUI. October 16 – A call was received for an individual needing medical assistance in Watson Hall. An ambulance was dispatched and the person was transported to Grove City Medical Center.

October 16 – An individual called to report they may have broken their fingers at the MihalikThompson Stadium. An ambulance was dispatched but the person refused medical treatment and no further action was taken.

October 16 – Police received a call for a highly intoxicated person that entered Aebersold Recreation Center to try and use the bathroom to throw up. Police found the individual and EMS on the scene transported them to the Grove City Medical Center.

October 16 – Police received a report of an individual with a possible broken leg at the Lower Stadium Lot A. The bone was visible and bleeding and EMTs transported them to the Grove City Medical Center.

October 16 – An individual was reported to be acting disorderly while police were handling the prior medical emergency at the Lower Stadium Lot A and refused to leave the area. Elana Chester, 26, was charged with public drunkenness.

October 16 – Police received a report of an individual with a possible broken ankle/leg at the Mihalik-Thompson Stadium. Police and EMTs transported them to Butler Memorial Hospital.

October 16 – Police were flagged down by an individual who saw a person passed out under a tree on Kiester Road. The individual was contacted and was okay and no further action was taken.

October 22, 2021

October 16 – Police responded to an Ephone activation on Rock Pride Drive. No one was in the area upon their arrival and the alarm was reset.

October 16 – An alcohol violation was reported in Building D with multiple residents and guests involved. Two juveniles were transported to the police station to be picked up by their parents and Alize Gernot, 18, Gianna Kubasiak, 18, Jazmine Schultz, 18, and Elijah Yancy, 20, were all cited with the purchase of alcohol by a minor.

October 17 – PSP was at the university police station with an intoxicated individual waiting for their parents to pick them up.

October 17 – PSP utilized the Datamaster at the university police station for a possible DUI, the individual refused a test.

October 17 – University police conducted a traffic stop on Kiester Road for a vehicle driving without headlights. Alcohol was found in the vehicle and Brody Allison, 18, Allison Buck, 18, and Elana Dipippa, 19, were cited with the purchase of alcohol by a minor.

October 17 – University police received a call for vandalism in Building A. Matthew Leehan, 18, was charged with criminal mischief.

October 17 – Police responded to a medical call for an individual with abdominal pains in Building E. The person was taken to the hospital by ambulance.

October 18 – PSP requested assistance with a domestic disturbance on South Main Street.

University police separated both individuals involved and PSP took over the investigation.

October 19 – Police received a fire alarm activation from ROCK Apartment #8. It was unknown what set off the alarm and the system was reset.

October 20 – Police responded to a fire alarm activation in ROCK Apartment #4. The alarm was set off by burnt food and the system was reset.

October 20 – Police received a call from a CA in Building A that smelled an odor of marijuana coming from a dorm room. The officers faintly smelled an odor but no marijuana was found. The case was referred to Student Standards and no further police action was taken.

COMPILED BY EMMA VELESIG

October 22, 2021

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GRAPHIC BY RAYNI SHIRING

SRSGA updates the rules

By Emma Velesig Assistant News Editor

Slippery Rock Student Government Association (SRSGA) held their first formal meeting of October on Monday at the Smith Student Center theater.

It was a quick meeting, with the Senate passing 13 motions, including amendments and changes to their own bylaws.

At previous formal meetings, there were issues with allowing participation from anyone in attendance in discussions about

"With Aramark being so new, they are asking us for our needs, so essentially that is what the committee will do."

– Grant Warmbein Vice President of Student and Academic Affairs

motions being voted upon.

The SRSGA bylaws state that those not in the senate who would like to speak about a motion are allowed to do so only during open forum, not during debate and discussion.

With the new amendment, “the chair will be allowed to recognize any member of student organizations at their sole discretion during formal meetings” and guests are now allowed to be included alongside SRSGA members in these debates.

Another amendment was made to Bylaw Article IV, Section 3, Subsection A, Sub-Subsection VI, which was voted to be changed to read that all members running for an elected position must disclose to the student body “any prospective or current executive position(s) in any other campus organization(s).” This amendment allows for the Senate to properly gauge the individuals who are running have the ability to provide their role in SRSGA the proper attention that is required. The amendment was tabled until their next formal meeting to give the senators time to review.

Vice President of Student and Academic Affairs Grant Warmbein congratulated the SRSGA with an announcement of the final number of responses to the St u d e n t L i f e Su r v e y.

901 responses were counted, which surpassed Warmbein’s original goal of 700. Because of their achievement, Warmbein mentioned that after the next formal meeting, all senators and executive board members will be

able to “egg” him as a reward.

The results of the survey should be made available by the Senate's next formal meeting.

Five initiative requests were passed during the meeting, four of which were conference grant requests.

The Double Reed club requested an initiative for $500 to help get their club up and running, as well as host a reed-making workshop and possibly commission music.

For the conference requests, t h e Exe rc i s e S c i e n c e Society requested $4,200 to cover transportation fees, the National Council of Teachers of English requested $229 for their conference in Pittsburgh, the Music Therapy Club requested $500, and lastly the American Society of Safety Professionals requested $300. All were approved.

A new food service ad hoc committee, which is a specific and temporary committee, was proposed

by Warmbein.

“With Aramark (SRU’s food service provider) being so new, they are asking us for our needs, so essentially that is what the committee will do,” Warmbein said.

College of Education Senator Gabriel Stiles was appointed Chair of the newly formed ad hoc food service committee.

Yo u n g Life, an international Christian worship group, was voted to be officially recognized as an SRU student organization.

Their president, senior special education and early childhood dual major Kristen Forrester, announced their weekly gatherings are held on off

HANNAH SLOPE / THE ROCKET

The Slippery Rock Student Government Association will help Aramark with student feedback by setting up a temporary committee looking into student issues.

campus Thursdays at 6 p.m. and all are welcome to join.

Students can check out their Instagram or CORE page for more information.

In celebration of national transfer student week, former SRSGA president and current transfer counselor for the admissions office, Nick Barcio, spoke during open forum. Barcio encouraged all transfer students to stop at Boozel Dining Hall this week for some cupcakes, cookies and Rice Krispies treats with their Transfer

Made Easy logo. He also mentioned that if transfer students post a picture of their sweets to Instagram, they will get a chance to win a gift basket from Aramark.

Rock the Weekend updates were announced by Lauren Moran, director of student engagement leadership and also SGA’s advisor. This Saturday, there will be a swimming with pumpkins event where students can grab a pumpkin from the Aebersold Recreation Center pool and a painting

kit for an at-home fall activity.

Oct. 23 at 8 p.m., the annual RockOUT drag show will be held in the Smith Student Center (SSC) Ballroom. Sunday, Oct. 24, the E-sports Club will be hosting a multigame tournament in the SSC Ballroom at 5 p.m..

The SRSGA will be holding its next formal on Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. in the SSC Theater. The meetings are open to all SRU community members and information can be found on CORE.

O

OPINION

Our View

SRU fails to rock the shot

OPINION

Volume 105, Issue Number 3

GRAPHIC BY: RAYNI SHIRING

220 220Eisenberg EisenbergClassroom ClassroomBuilding Building Slippery SlipperyRock RockUniversity University Slippery SlipperyRock, Rock,Pennsylvania Pennsylvania16057 16057 Phone: Phone: (724) (724)738-4438 738-4438 Fax: Fax: (724) (724)738-4896 738-4896 E-mail: E-mail: therocketnewspapersru@gmail.com therocketnewspapersru@gmail.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Nina Cipriani

Editor-in-Chief

Joe Wells

News Editor

Madison Williams Sarah Anderson

Sports Editor Campus Life Editor

Ryanne Dougherty

Copy/Web Editor

Hannah Slope

Photo Editor

Brandon Pierce

Multimedia Editor

Emma Velesig

Assistant News Editor

Tyler Howe

Assistant Sports Editor

Morgan Miller

Assistant Campus Life Editor

Kaitlyn Myers

Assistant Copy/Web Editor

Rayni Shiring

Assistant Photo Editor

Dr. Brittany Fleming

Faculty Adviser

ADVERTISING STAFF Brooke Miller

Advertising Manager

Sara McClintock

Assistant Advertising Manager

ABOUT US The Rocket is published by the students of Slippery Rock University five times per academic semester. Total weekly circulation is 1,000 (for fall 2021 semester only).

No material appearing in The Rocket may be reprinted without the written consent of the Editor-in-Chief.

The Rocket receives funding from the SGA Student Activity fee paid each semester by students. All other income is provided through the sale of advertising.

Advertising inquiries may be made by calling (724) 7382643 or by emailing rocket.ads@sru.edu.

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.

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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.

The United States has been battling COVID-19 since Jan. 20, 2020, 641 days ago. It was officially declared a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Within this period, the country had to adapt to maskwearing, social distancing, virtual job requirements and online classes, just to name a few. On Dec. 11, 2020, the FDA authorized the PfizerBioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use in the United States. Since the development of the vaccine, over 409 million doses have been administered in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Butler county's vaccination rate is about 55% of the population, with roughly 103,000 people being fully vaccinated. But at SRU, as of Wednesday, the student vaccination rate is 52.5% of the campus population, according to Kristina Benkeser, director of student health services.

At this point in the pandemic, there are still some people who have reservations against the vaccine, with many different reasons as to why. But for those who are willing to receive it, there's typically no cost, and most local pharmacies are offering walk-in appointments.

Universities across the United States are offering incentives for college students to get vaccinated. Some schools are offering scholarships, promising puppy therapy, giving out textbook credit, free parking and free tuition.

PASSHE vaccine incentives While SRU has a vaccine incentive campaign, the same cannot be said for all schools in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Not all PASSHE universities are offering something of this kind.

Nine of the 14 PASSHE universities aren’t offering incentives for vaccination, including California, Cheyney, Clarion, East Stroudsburg, Edinboro, Indiana, Kutztown, Lock Haven, Mansfield and Millersville Universities, according to their university websites. However, Bloomsburg, Shippensburg, Slippery Rock and West Chester Universities are incentivizing vaccines, from offering scholarships to tattooing the university president.

Bloomsburg University held a scholarship drawing on Oct. 6 and about 3,700 students submitted proof of vaccination. The university rewarded 40 students with scholarships, including two $5,000 awards, 10 awards of $2,500 and 28 rewards of $25 in Husky Gold.

Shippensburg University is engaging its campus community in a vaccination week from Nov. 8 through Nov. 12.

According to Kimberly Garris, vice president for external relations and communications at Shippensburg, the university hopes to acknowledge those who are vaccinated, increase submissions for proof of vaccination, offer vaccination opportunities and educational materials and offer a number of different incentives like scholarships.

West Chester University held four scholarship drawings for students since the beginning of the semester, according to Nancy Santos Gainer, assistant vice president of university communications and marketing. Students who uploaded vaccination proof between Aug. 16 and Aug. 30 were entered to win two $2,500 scholarships and one scholarship for $5,000. An additional $5,000 scholarship was added and a winner was selected on Sept. 10. Out of the more than 15,500 students, roughly 10,000 have indicated that they are vaccinated, or about 66% of the student population.

SRU's Rock the Shot, Ink the President The university launched the "Rock the Shot, Ink the President" campaign on Oct. 5 in an effort to encourage an increase in vaccination rates on campus. The campaign's main incentives include prizes for undergraduate students and the possibility of SRU President William Behre getting an SRU-themed tattoo. No participant can win more than one prize.

If the student vaccination rate reaches 65% by Nov. 1, five students will be awarded a designated parking spot in a lot of their choosing, excluding staff lots, for the spring 2022 semester. If the rate reaches 70%

by Nov. 17, one undergraduate student will receive free tuition for the spring 2022 semester. If the rate reaches 75% by Dec. 3,

the president will receive an SRUrelated student-designed tattoo on his upper arm.

The catch is that the campus vaccination rate has to reach at least 65% by Nov. 1 for students to receive any awards. Roughly two weeks into the campaign, the campus vaccination rate is only at 52.5%, with just 11 days until Nov. 1, the first incentive deadline.

This is a 1.5% increase since the campaign started on Oct. 5.

At some point, we must ask ourselves if this is the best the university can offer. The campaign is certain to catch people's and the media's attention, but will it carry out its original goal to increase the student vaccination rate? SRU should continue to educate students on why being vaccinated is beneficial for the community, while also easing student worries and hesitations.

Student and community opinion of incentives Despite some adverse reactions from the community, it did get students talking about the vaccine and the university's mitigation efforts. Student and community discussions are not in favor of the incentives.

Most individuals are indifferent about the campaign.

The incentives aren’t being taken seriously, as they aren’t necessarily areas of interest for the student body. Although the parking incentive may be popular with students, they would rather see a solution to the problem, rather than VIP access for such a select few. For the existing incentives, students know that their chances of winning any prize is low.

To advertise this plan, the university has posted on its social media platforms, displayed large posters around campus and posted flyers in buildings. While this is gaining a lot of traction, the lighthearted nature of its promotion has almost taken away from the credibility of the campaign as a whole. Its promotion on social media seems to undermine the university's goals by spreading a joke-like image with a campaign about a topic with such serious implications.

As an image of President Behre wrestling COVID-19 circulated on Facebook, commenters mentioned how the meme seems to weaken the main idea of the incentives: to increase the student vaccination rate. With 17 total comments,

In the Quad

SRU students, faculty and community members positively responded in the comment section of the post, including comments like, "That's amazing!!"

However, most comments were critical, like "Bribing kids... disturbing," "Embarrassing" and "Weird flex but ok." Someone also asked who runs the university's Facebook page. Alumni and donors also participated, explaining that they were disappointed in the university and will not be donating any more money to SRU. On Thursday, the official Slippery Rock University Facebook page also posted a meme of the Harry Styles's Fine Line album with President Behre's face on Styles's body.

Alternatives and solutions Some of the most beneficial vaccine incentives came from the fully-vaccinated SRU Lacrosse Team, who were promised new shoes. Students also received $50 in flex money in the beginning of the semester for uploading proof of vaccination. The community seemingly had better reactions to these material incentives.

Currently, the incentives are so limited in quantity that students are uninterested because of the only slight possibility of winning.

Incentives should benefit the entirety or at least the majority of students, so that students feel that they do have a chance to win if they’re vaccinated.

Had student voices been included in this incentive campaign, the university may have approached this from a different angle. Student voices can add depth and insight into the conversation on how to approach encouraging students to vaccination. In future mitigation efforts, we hope the university considers asking students for their input, as the students are directly affected by the incentives and those who choose to remain unvaccinated.

The university should take this time to reflect and better its campaign. If the university's ultimate goal is to return to normal, which is what the incentives are trying to promote, it should be its number one priority.

The vaccine is not a political issue. It's a matter of a public health crisis, and it should be treated as such. The current incentives stray from the intended message, and instead turns the pandemic into a lighthearted issue.

Question: What is your favorite Halloween candy?

By: Brandon Pierce

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.

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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.

Amanda McCracken Freshman Elementary Education Clearfield, PA

Benjamin Luzier Freshman Computer Science Clearfield, PA

"I like Jolly Ranchers. It's the best candy in general. It's my favorite candy."

"Probably candy corn because it has the classic Halloween and fall colors, and personally, I think it's pretty good."

Avery Clukey First-year graduate student Doctorate Program of Physical Therapy Mechanicsburg, PA "I like Reese's because chocolate and peanut butter is my favorite combination."

OPINION

October 22, 2021

B-2

Addressing the We hold these disparities truths Kaitlyn Myers Kaitlyn Myers is a junior professional writing major with a minor in gerontology.

Kaitlyn is the assistant copy/web editor of The Rocket.

CONTENT WARNING: This article contains mentions of suicide rates and health disparities in the LGBTQ community.

Everyday when I walk into my contemporar y social problems class with Professor Akita Donald, I truly don’t know what to expect. Over the past nine weeks, we’ve covered a wide range of topics. I heard about the theme for this print edition right before I went to this class, and I began contemplating what I could write. And what did we cover that day?

Health disparities in the LGBTQ community.

Overall, the statistics a re a s t o u n d i n g . Wi t h health, there are higher rates of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, higher rates of substance abuse, higher rates of unhealthy weight

control and perception, higher rates of smoking, higher rates of depression and anxiety and higher rates of violence victimization. Do you see the pattern here?

Some of these higher rates come from fear and distrust within the LGBTQ community towards health care professionals. Most individuals have had negative experiences in this setting, and that discourages them to go back for further appointments, or even going to health centers with concerns.

I d o n’t k n ow a b o u t you, but if I was in the middle of a pap smear and someone asked me about my sexuality and then started reprimanding me for my choices, I would be hesitant to go back to that setting, too. It’s dehumanizing, and it’s happening.

This directly impacts the mental health of members of the LGBTQ community. The suicide rate is four times higher for lesbian, gay and bisexual youth than heterosexual youth. Four times greater.

The worst part of this situation is that there are no biological or physiological differences b e t w e e n L B G TQ a n d heterosexual individuals.

All misconceptions and stigma are socially constructed, meaning this is solely the result of humans.

There is no difference between individuals because of sexuality and gender identity. So,

how does that explain the inequalities and mistreatment within the LGBTQ community?

Truly, most of us know or have friends who are part of the LGBTQ community and can help educate us on terminology and specific situations.

Ho w e v e r, I w o u l d n ' t have learned about terms such as sexual minority, dead naming or even the staggering statistics if I had not been in this class.

With that said, it brings into question why these courses aren't required.

If we h a ve t o t a k e classes on basic math, English concepts and electives, shouldn’t we also have a grasp of basic social problems and inequalities that we’ll find when out in the real world? If we don’t educate ourselves now, can we ever see change in our society?

Professor Donald loves to encourage us by saying that we are the generation of trailblazers who can make a change to our world. We talk about how we can all be an ally and make small changes to our daily lives that make a difference.

I just wonder if we’re really able to change the statistics and impact our future or if the stigma around minority groups will continue into the generations of our great-grandchildren.

I’d like to say we can, but until we fully stop and appreciate the beauty in the differences within our society, can we all come together and fully be a united nation?

Where do the lies end?

Krisztina Armstrong Krisztina Armstrong is a junior recreational therapy major with a minor in animal assisted intervention.

She’ll be attending the occupational therapy graduate program starting in the summer.

DISCLAIMER: This article was written by the roommate of Kaitlyn Myers, The Rocket's assistant copy/ web editor, who wrote "Sustainability: What, where and how." This is a rebuttal to Kaitlyn's sustainability article and should be read as satire.

Imagine the excitement I was feeling: It was the first print week of the semester, and my best friend just wrote a piece about a topic she was passionate about. She just hand-delivered you a paper.

But, imagine my surprise when I began reading this article, and it's littered with lies. The smile and excitement left my body as I began reading faster, searching for the silver lining in this article that never came. I soon find myself sitting

"The name of her article was "Sustainability: What, where and how," and I have to say, it was a great title because, throughout my reading experience, I was also wondering where she was taking part in these sustainable activities because it surely is not our home." alone in my room, feeling lost about how we got to a situation where such lies and misrepresentation are being publicized in our newspaper, and by our editor, nonetheless.

The editor who's supposed to be fighting for the integrity and reputation of The Rocket.

The stride to achieve sustainability is an important one, but the need for honesty in our media is even more important. Yes, my dear friend is working on being more ecoconscious, but when I tell you there are always at least 75 lights on at any given time, it is not an

overstatement. Even with every light on in the building, she is not able to see her leftovers rotting in our fridge. Very sustainable, if you ask me.

The most sustainable thing about my dear roommate is the fact that she doesn't use a plate when she has her afternoon pretzels. Rather, she carries them around on the lid of the pretzel jar.

The name of her article was “Sustainability: What, where and how,” and I have to say, it is a great title because, throughout my reading experience, I was also wondering where she was taking part in these sustainable activities because it surely is not in our home.

The "how" that is raised throughout her opinion place is “How could she lie to us all?” and “What did we do to deserve such dishonesty from our editor?” But I think the biggest question that came out in this piece was what else is she lying to us about?

To lie in an opinion-based piece makes me wonder if she is lying about even bigger issues. Is her last name actually Myers or is it Meyers? Is she actually a licensed school bus driver, or did she just need a fun fact to use during ice breaker activities? Is she actually a professional writing major or just a professional liar?

I want to make it clear: This is not a petty dispute between roommates. I love my roommate dearly and would do anything for her, but we need to be able to trust our news sources.

The voice of our generation is already so often silenced by those who deem themselves more educated or better equipped to lead, and we cannot stand ideally by as this occurs in our newspaper. I think more strong female writers, such as Kaitlyn, deserve a platform to discuss issues that are important to them, but they should not have to lie to get a seat at the table.

"Truly, most of us know or have friends who are part of the LGBTQ community and can help educate us on terminology and specific situations.

However, I wouldn't have learned about terms such as sexual minority, dead naming or even the staggering statstics if I had not been in this class.

With that said, it brings into question why these courses aren't required."

CONTENT WARNING: This article contains mentions of sexual violence.

Editor's note: The author of this opinion piece, a sophomore at Sl i p p e r y R o c k H i g h S c h o o l , re q u e s t e d t o remain anonymous.

Dear Slippery Rock High School people, I don’t know your names and you probably don’t know mine.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal…” (from Declaration of Sentiments).

Are dress codes constitutional? Do they protect student’s rights and fight for equality?

Boys will be boys.

A massive but unaddressed problem is that teenage boys are simply allowed to be teenagers, simply allowed to live and laugh and act their age and have reasonable responsibilities, while teenage girls constantly worry about being r a p e d . W h a t ’s m o r e disturbing is the issue is never addressed b e c a u s e i t ’s a c c e p t e d as normal.

Gi r l s a re t a u g h t w h a t happens, should they not conform to society’s s t a n d a rd s o f “d e c e n c y, " b u t b o y s a r e n o t . It’s not necessary for them.

Boys will never live w i t h t h a t f e a r, s o w h y should they learn?

Fo r g i r l s , i t’s a l w a y s “d o n’t w e a r t h a t ,” n o t “ d o n’t o b j e c t i f y o r abuse those who wear that.” It’s always “don’t be a slut,” not “respect people no matter what.”

It’s a l w a y s “ i f yo u a c t that way, you’re asking for it,” not “never violate the safety of others, no exceptions.” That’s the double standard, though, this double standard extends far deeper than that.

I can clearly remember the first time I was catcalled. I was 12 and attending school. I was wearing sweatpants and a b a g g y T- s h i r t . I w a s following the dress code.

It still happened.

Since then, the l o o m i n g t h re a t t h a t i t will occur once more hangs over me like an untightened noose. It’s terrifying.

If I speak up, I’ll be told it’s my fault. If I keep my silence, it’s my problem for not saying anything. Why I follow the rules, why I comply, is out of fear.

Wearing what I want is a privilege. Leaving my house to walk outside is a p r i v i l e g e . No t b e i n g harassed on the streets, not being talked down to, having my opinion be heard, every word I fight to get out, is a privilege. My safety is a privilege.

SEE ACCOUNTABILITY PAGE B-3

Why the world needs more campus protests

Madeline Bundy Madeline is a junior converged journalism major. She is also a content creator for WSRU-TV News and a member of Jumpstart.

CONTENT WARNING: This article contains mentions of sexual violence.

What do parents always tell their kids when they are growing up? You can do anything and change anything as long as you set your mind to it. That seems to be the main drive behind a lot of the protests that happen, especially the ones surrounding college students.

One of the main things that college students protest is sexual assault. Why? Because college campuses seem to brush them under the rug or, based on where a student either lives or the sexual assault happens, the campus may not be required to report it in the crime log of what happens on their campus that prospective students and families may look at.

A recent example that not many people knew about until they logged into their Tik Tok account happened at the University of Delaware.

A student was beaten, blinded by spray paint and thrown down steps over four hours. The university tried to keep it quiet, but fellow students took to the streets, where over 500 protested and posted about it on Tik Tok and other platforms. It reached over 8 million people.

What was the result of this, you may ask? Due to the exposure of the incident Brandon Freyre, the person who committed the act was arrested and charged with assault, kidnapping and strangulation.

Had the fellow students at the University of Delaware

not stepped forward and took matters into their own hands, their fellow student who was assaulted wouldn’t have received justice.

A reason students protest more and more these days is it's the only way change seems to happen. Students take other actions to get change and it's either not enough or overlooked.

When college students protest, they are able to reach more people because they use one of the strongest tools in their toolbox: social media. Yes, we do spend a lot of time on social media, but we also learn a lot while we are on our social media accounts.

The main thing that college students are trying to change with protests is that college males shouldn't be able to get away with sexual assault, just because they may have an amazing career after graduation in their chosen field, or they are an amazing athlete at a certain sport. Changing this also changes how female students will feel while being on a college campus.

PRINT CORRECTION In the Oct. 8 print edition, readers may have noticed the misspelling of Nicholas Condon's name and misuse of pronouns on Page A-5. To view the corrections in the digital edition of the article, scan the QR code below.

October 22, 2021

OPINION

B-3

Accountability for systemic sexism

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B-2 School should be a place of safety. So, shouldn’t students be taught to not harm others, rather than telling the harmed to stop being vulnerable? Why is it expected of teenage girls to dress a certain way so they aren't sexualizing themselves, but it is not expected of teenage boys to stop sexualizing girls?

Why are girls alone being disciplined?

A stricter dress code is dehumanizing, disrespectful and degrading. It reduces girls to their bodies, and it pushes the same narrative that boys can’t contain themselves. It’s sexist, misogynistic, and, to put bluntly, punishing the already oppressed for being susceptible to harm, thus further aiding the oppression.

What a girl wears should not reduce her worth, nor should it reduce the productivity of a classroom, though the dress code disagrees. The biological female body has been sexualized to the point where it can no longer exist for any other purpose, and can no longer be thought of in any other light. It’s a tool to use, not a body to value. Th ose are all ideas the dress code enforces and embodies.

The Slippery Rock Area School District reads as follows: “The Slippery Rock Area School District recognizes that each student’s mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The District

will not interfere with the right of students and their parents to make decisions regarding their appearance except when their choices affect the educational program of the schools or the health and safety of others.

The District will enforce regulations prohibiting student dress or grooming practices which: - Present a hazard to the health or safety of the student him/herself or to others in the school.

- Materially interfere with schoolwork, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program.

- Cause excessive wear or damage to school property.

- Prevent the student from achieving his/her own educational objectives because of blocked vision or restricted movement.”

The dress code can be found on pages 37 and 38 of the student handbook that's given to every student in the school-issued agendas, with the code applying to all genders. Several school districts, Alameda Unified School District, for example, have reasonable, fair dress codes that allow for freedom of expression while not sexualizing minors or “endangering” and “distracting” students.

So, the stricter dress code isn’t inherently the issue.

The issue is the varying degree of enforcement between girls and boys.

Girls are being forced to dress modestly to ensure “safety,” but the question of why girls need to do that to be safe is never

asked. The issue is that the responsibility of keeping harassers and offenders at bay now falls on the shoulders of the targeted.

If that’s what it takes to remain safe in school, is that true safety? Is that equality?

Though, maybe it should be that way. School is preparing us for the real world. And in the real world, boys will be boys and

and no other reason. It’s not my fault, nor should I face the consequences of those who objectify and only see my worth through cup size.

The way I dress is not a justification to touch me, nor should it be used that way.

A school that chooses to limit its dress code while not actively fighting against systematic sexism,

"Resentment has replaced pride.

Students are craving change, and for the idea of rockets being so progressive, the school seems quite determined in remaining tethered to the ground." girls will be the ones who face their consequences, right? In the real world, boys will be boys, and girls will grow used to it. Girls will learn to live with fear.

Wearing what I want is taking back a little bit of that freedom, a little bit of that power, a little bit of my silenced voice. I dress how I dress because I choose to,

but conversely going out of its way to support it is disgusting. That school is imposing the message that the oppressed need to modify their behavior and appearance to prevent their oppressors from hurting them, and that message is far more harmful than any catcall. That school is Slippery Rock High School.

Resentment has replaced pride. Students are craving change, and for the idea of rockets being so progressive, the school seems quite determined in remaining tethered to the ground. Why is freedom of expression and individuality, a symbol of finally breaking past the horrible chains of body image and not achieving perfection, being taken away when, for some people, dressing how they choose is the only freedom they have?

Why do this when dressing how they choose is how they love themselves?

Why is the middle-aged male author of the dress code so obsessed with what teenage girls are wearing?

Who is it benefiting? Who is it protecting? Or, is it too distracting for male students and teachers alike? Oh well. In that case, I should apologize, along with the rest of the female students, for having a functioning body deemed too sexual for school.

Perhaps the dress code carries no real importance other than reinforcing hundreds of years of sexism, punishing girls f o r s e l f - e m p owe r m e n t and supporting the stillstanding remains of patriarchy, now defended and fortified by a discriminatory school that promised to treat their students equally.

Change will only happen when Slippery Rock High School holds all of its students and teachers accountable and stops placing blame on people, regardless of gender, for

having a body in which they exist.

A safe place conducive to a positive learning environment will only be created when schools hold all students to the same standards, with no exceptions. Change exists to serve the needy, to provide a voice to the voiceless, to tear down the walls keeping the oppressed from reaching freedom. This is a call for change.

Hear it.

And until change occurs, Slipper y Rock High School has made the active decision to remain complacent in a system that teaches people to use the way others dress as an excuse; in a system that supports abusers and silences victims; in a system that makes it abundantly clear to victims that whatever they do, whatever they say, however they look, it’s their fault; in a system reliant on fear. It’s ugly, it’s sickening, and because of Slippery Rock High School, it's normal.

All are created equal. I would hope that 200 years later that statement would still stand true and stronger than the injustice and suffering that made those words come to life, though, I’ll apologize once more.

Apparently, I missed the part that excluded anyone vaguely resembling traits to femininity. After all, boys will be boys and girls will be raped no matter what they wear.

Thank you, A 10th grader at Slippery Rock High

S

VIDEO: Papa reminisces on career at SRU

SPORTS

Allies for athletes

By Madison Williams L G B T Q c o m m u n i t y f r e q u e n t l y t h a n i t i s .

Sports Editor

When it comes to being a student athlete it comes with many obstacles. Some struggle with the balance of homework and practice, while others struggle with acceptance. Oct. 11 highlighted National Coming Out Day in accordance with the L G B T Q c o m m u n i t y.

Overall, the setting within campus communities have vastly improved in their efforts to make their students feel safe.

Being in a college environment allows some to recognize who t h e y t r u l y a re a t t r a c t e d to. At Slippery Rock students and athletes alike are made to feel safe in the community and to be themselves.

The university holds month long events and has multiple on campus associations that serve as a safe space for students. Rock Out, Pr i d e C e n t e r, a n d t h e Counselling center all offer amazing opportunities to learn more.

Coming out and being open with your true self is one of the best things a studentathlete can do for their mental health.

To d o s o c o m f o r t a b l y, the stigma around the

needs to be ended.

For an anonymous soccer player at The Rock, she believes that coming out to your team and accepting your sexuality can be a very positive decision.

As a high-school athlete she felt ready to tell her family the t r u t h . I t i s n’t a l w a y s that simple though and our generation is evolving and aligning morals with society t o d a y. H o w e v e r, p a s t generations struggle to grasp these same concepts since they differ so greatly from when they were growing up. While change is not a bad thing though, her f a m i l y w a s n’t e x a c t l y sure how to react.

Over time she continued to stay in tune with herself and her sexual preference.

In college, during her second semester as a freshman she again decided it would be good to tell her friends and family and make h e r s e l f c l e a r. T h i s time people handled i t b e t t e r, s o m e e v e n eluding that they a l r e a d y k n e w.

The easiest way p e o p l e c a n b e a n a l l y, i s j u s t s i m p l y by l i s t e n i n g and accepting people for who they are. She said the significance behind people being supportive should be accepted more

When it comes to the reactions of her teammates, she said barely anyone batted an eye. At other universities across the U.S. people face discrimination, violence and blatant disrespect for simply expressing themselves. Not receiving any n e g a t i v i t y, a n d even cracking jokes with her team is something she highly v a l u e s .

Ironically enough she says they even come to her to spill all their boy drama for an un-biased opinion. If she could give any advice to those who are judgmental, she put i t s i m p l y, “ B e a k i n d human being, be there t o l i s t e n .” S h e a d d e d that the internal battle faced within the LGBTQ community is tough enough and being comfortable in your skin should be a valid reason for coming out. At the e n d o f t h e d a y, y o u really are no different than anyone else. “ My t e a m re a l l y d o e s make it a safe space to b e m y s e l f ,” s h e s a i d .

How you identify and yo u r s e x u a l o r i e n t a t i o n

is something everyone should always be willing to talk about o p e n l y. I n o u r e r a t o d a y, the hate outweighs the love. If she could encourage anyone else, student or a t h l e t e , s h e s a y s “d o n’t hold onto something that impacts

you t h a t g r e a t l y. No t h i d i n g lifted a weight off my shoulders, I was bawling but with e x c i t e m e n t .”

Like Nike says it “ Ju s t d o i t .” S h e d i d it and for the last t h r e e y e a r s s h e’s b e e n in an openly loving relationship. The two are often seen leaving games holding hands and being proud of their admiration for o n e a n o t h e r. S h e added that she plans to eventually attend on-campus events

when her athletic schedule allows, as it is a great way to feel more confident.

Organizations w i t h i n t h e p ro f e s s i o n a l realm have begun working toward making diversity and inclusion a focus in their purpose for sports.

Diversity workshops and other instructional videos can be found on the NCAA

resource page to learn more.

The NCAA has resources for inclusion and stands in support of student-athletes, coaches and fans of all races and sexual orientations. They absolutely do not stand for any hazing or bullying of the L G B T Q c o m m u n i t y.

Inclusivity within all cultures and backgrounds are

highly encouraged for all positions including coaches, staff within leadership and players.

Athletes and nonathletes alike need to come together in support of the ever-changing world and to adequately vo u c h f o r c h a n g e f o r positive well-being of the LGBTQ community within sports.

Harassment at practices or o games being the most common form of hate, co can be improved with educa education on the topic.

Using proper terminology p and des describing someone based on their preferred pronouns is a good way to start. Be an ally and provide an eenvironment for your fri friends and team to be oopen with anothe one another.

With a ssteady increase in mindfulne mindfulness, society will wi realize too that

everyone has a right to be who they are a s long as they are not harming anyone w i t h h their expression.

GRAPHIC BY: HANNAH SLOPE

Fernandez looks to net a championship with The Rock

By Tyler Howe Assistant Sports Editor

At one point in time, there was a kid sitting in Santiago Bernabéu Stadium watching Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid FC play football. That kid, Alejandro Fernandez, sat in awe of Ronaldo.

It was an easy way to fall in love with the game.

Fernandez, who comes from Alcala de Henares, Madrid, has always done his best to imitate the game of Ronaldo. From the time he was young, he wanted to be exactly like him. He always heard the debate about who was the best player of all-time. To him it’s clear.

“I know Messi is really good and I understand the point of the fans who like Messi over Ronaldo, but what he means to me is a lot,” Fernandez said. “He’s a leader and he’s really ambitious, at Real Madrid you could see his reactions and his behavior on the field, and you say to yourself is that one day you want to become that player.”

Growing up in Madrid, Fernandez was given a lot of opportunities. That’s something he acknowledges and if you ask him, he has the best parents in the world and the best family in the world.

“I have no complaints about my past, and I’m proud of it and I actually love it,” Fernandez said.

His journey to Slippery Rock was a different one. Fernandez looked at the engineering program just as much as he did the soccer program, but the difference in the end was how professional Head Coach Kevin Wilhelm was. That alone became a very large part in why Fernandez chose The Rock.

“Slippery Rock showed the best support and interest in me, and when Coach Wilhelm contacted me, he was very friendly and professional, and that was mainly the thing that got me to Slippery Rock,” Fernandez said. “When you get different offers, you get to compare them, and this was the best one for sure.”

Slippery Rock just fit him the best, and that made the decision to come across the Atlantic Ocean an easy one. He could not only continue his education, which is extremely important to him, but even over 3,860 miles from home he could feel comfortable.

SEE 3,000 PAGE C-3 PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE SCHNELLE

SPORTS

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PSAC WEST STANDINGS

October 22, 2021

Rebounding Rock

Football 1.

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IUP Cal U Slippery Rock Gannon Seton Hill Mercyhurst Edinboro Clarion

4-0 (5-1) 3-0 (6-0) 3-1 (6-1) 2-2 (3-4) 1-3 (3-4) 1-3 (2-5) 1-3 (1-5) 0-3 (0-6)

RAYNI SHIRING / THE ROCKET

The 48-21 loss to Indiana (Pa.) marked the first PSAC west loss since 2017, and now the path the PSAC championship becomes much more difficult. The team looks to remained focused on what they can control, and that starts in Erie this Saturday.

Men's Soccer 1.

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Gannon Seton Hill Mercyhurst Slippery Rock Cal U Pitt-Johnstown

4-0-1 (11-1-1) 4-1 (7-5-1) 2-1-2 (7-3-2) 2-3 (5-6-2) 1-3-1 (2-7-2) 0-5 (1-9-1)

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Gannon Slippery Rock Mercyhurst Edinboro IUP Clarion Pitt-johnstown Cal u seton hill

8-2-2 (8-2-2) 8-3-1 (9-3-2) 7-3-1 (8-4-1) 7-5 (8-5) 6-4-1 (7-4-1) 4-7-1 (4-7-1) 3-8-1 (4-9-1) 3-8 (3-9) 2-8-1 (3-8-1)

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Shippensburg E. Stroudsburg Millersville West Chester Kutztown IUp Mansfield slippery rock bloomsburg Mercyhurst seton hill

8-0 (13-0) 7-1 (13-3) 5-2 (12-2) 5-2 (10-3) 4-3 (10-4) 3-4 (10-4) 3-4 (8-7) 2-5 (5-8) 1-6 (7-8) 1-6 (1-13) 0-6 (1-13)

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Edinboro Clarion Gannon Mercyhurst Pitt-johnstown cal u IUP SETON HILL SLIPPERY ROCK

7-1 (15-3) 7-2 (15-6) 6-2 (19-4) 5-4 (9-11) 4-4 (11-6) 4-5 (9-9) 3-6 (12-12) 2-7 (9-11) 1-8 (4-18)

By Tyler Howe Assistant Sports Editor

It’s been a long time since Slippery Rock lost a game and had to play the next week. For the past two seasons, the last loss of the season came in the playoffs. Now, they find themselves in unfamiliar territory, as they get ready to make the drive to Erie on Saturday to play Mercyhurst University.

Many of the players on The Rock football team have never experienced a regular season loss. The junior class consists of players that were on the team that went 13-1, with that loss coming from an opponent that wasn’t even from this part of the country. That 58-15 Minnesota State University loss is the only taste of the defeat that some of players have felt.

Now ever y game is do or die for The Rock football team, as another loss would make it very hard for The Rock to make the playoffs.

However, while the loss to Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) stings, Coach Shawn Lutz knows it isn’t the end of the world.

He used an analogy to describe the situation.

T h e Un i ve r s i t y o f Alabama lost a couple weeks ago. They don’t lose very often. In the past couple years, neither has Slippery Rock. The Crimson Tide’s season isn’t over and it’s the same way for Slippery Rock. They both have a lot left to play for and one loss isn’t the end of the season.

“After thinking about it, it star ts with me and number one I’ve got to do a better job, we haven’t been in this position [in a while],” Lutz said. “You know

"We're a resilient team, and we've got to prove that at 12 p.m. on Saturday against Mercyhurst."

– Shawn Lutz, Rock football head coach

Alabama lost a few weeks ago and they don’t think their world is coming to an end, and they still have their goals.”

The path to the playoffs still exists for The Rock. The most desired path is for No. 5 California University of Pennsylvania (Cal-U) to win this week against IUP. If both The Rock and The Vulcans were to win out, it would set up a winner take all matchup in the final week of the season.

Before The Green and White can even think of that though, they need to take care of business, starting this week in Erie. They have two straight games that are played in Erie, with the first being played against Mercyhurst University and then they take on Gannon University next week.

“I still think that we’re a ver y good football team, and I hope that going through adversity will make us stronger, because sometimes you need failure before you can have success,” Lutz said. “Our guys are mad, upset and hate to lose and we’re going to take care ourselves and get better that way.”

That focus now shifts to controlling what you can control. The biggest thing they can control is how they play and what they want to improve upon. A large area that needs improvement is the run game. So far, it’s struggled throughout the entire season.

The spark seemed to be lit against Edinboro University when they had Cinque Sweeting in the backfield for a number of plays. He had just seven rushing attempts in the game and ran for 89-yards and two touchdowns.

S w e e t i n g c o m p l e m e n t e d Ti m Smith and Chris D’Or in the Edinboro game.

Smith ran for 95-yards on 17 attempts in that game, and D’Or ran for 53-yards on seven attempts. In total, The Ro c k h a d 2 6 7 - y a rd s rushing in the game.

The problem seemed to be fixing itself, and then IUP was able to completely shut down to the tune of just 70-yards on 25 attempts.

While The Rock tried running the ball against The Crimson Hawks, it just didn’t work. The failure to run the ball limited what they could do on offense as it took them a while to adjust to the cover two that IUP was playing.

T h i s we e k Lu t z i s hopeful to have Evyn Holtz back. Holtz has been going through practice this week and having him back would

benefit The Rock.

Going into camp, he was number one on the depth chart at running back.

Having him back would create a steady backfield with four very capable runners competing for carries and touches.

“It’s hard to give them all carries but going into camp Evyn was our number one back, and Tim Smith has done a great job, and so has Chris D’Or and Cinque Sweeting,” Lutz said.

“It just gives us another weapon, and whoever has the hot hand is who we’re going to have to go with.”

Having Holtz back could be huge for an offense that just got Max Meciejewski back just a few weeks prior. It would give The Rock the opportunity to put an almost entirely healthy team out on the field and it comes at a good time.

Every game becomes a must win after only one loss.

“I told the team that what we know is that we’re guaranteed four games left and from here on out, the way we’re looking at it is that every game up to that point is a playoff game,” Lutz said. “We have a very low margin for error, and with another loss we know what’s at stake, but with that being said we still think we’re a pretty good football team and we’re not going to panic.”

This past week saw The Rock defense allow the most points they did all season. IUP had Irvin Charles and Duane Brown out wide, and they were the first team that was able to effectively move the ball through the air on The Rock. Even with IUP’s explosive game through the air, The Rock still only gives up an average of 126 passing yards per game and still hasn’t allowed over 1,000 passing yards this season.

After allowing 48 points in one game, The Rock defense is going to come out aggressive.

That’s something that Lutz wants to see. They were put in a lot of tough positions against The Crimson Hawks, h owe ve r Lu t z k n ow s it’s going to take both sides to win the turnover battle. Winning that will be one of the keys to winning the game on Saturday.

Walking into a game like this, the Alabama comparison can be used again. After the loss, The Crimson Tide walked into their game against the Mississippi St a t e Un i ve r s i t y a n d won decisively. That is exactly what Lutz is looking for this week. A loss ends any chance at

the PSAC West title no matter the result of the IUP-Cal-U game. While that game is going to be big in deciding what path The Rock will have to take, it is not by any means the main order of business.

The Rock dropped 11 spots in the Div. II poll this week and they now sit at number 17 in the nation. A loss would likely push them out of it for the first time in a while. Slippery Rock has made a home in the top 10, and it’s odd for them to be out of it.

Coming off of the loss, it just fuels motivation even further.

Being on the road can sometimes be a good thing. In fact, SRU’s last loss on the road came in 2017 against Edinboro, and while Slippery Rock has one of the best home advantages in Div. II, being on the road can be good for the team to have a new test and get more experience.

“We love playing at home, but sometimes going into a hostile a t m o s p h e re h e l p s u s focus on what we want to do, and we’ve been through the pressure,” Lutz said. “Like I said when you have adversity, you’re going to go one wayy or the other, and pefullyy it’s ggoingg to p hopefully ke us stronger g make and t’s what we expect.” p that’s Another keyy is going g g to be ggettingg the bigg playmakers the ball. ere are a lot of them There g g for The Rock but getting Henry Litwin and maine Wynn y Jr. is Jermaine ngg to be a major j keyy going y to success on Saturday. p Thee duo has proven mselves to be one of themselves g in the most dangerous y and in the entire country, the Seton Hill Universityy me theyy made that game ar. Theyy combined for clear. fivee touchdowns in the me, and now ggettingg game, m involved will be of them h importance. p high “ We’ve ggot to do a ter jjob of getting g g better nryy the ball, you y know Henry yy’ve been doublingg they’ve m a lot so we’re going g g him g to mix to do some things p so we can do thatt up t,” Lutz said. “Earlyy that,” in the ggame we’ve ggot to p y get our playmakers the l, and we can’t make it ball, thatt hard. Get them the balll and let them make yys in space.” p plays The ggoal still remains the same for The Rock otball team. While football the loss hurts a little, it’s back to business and w the p plan is to take it now me by game, according game g to Lutz. Everyy game is as bigg as the next, no tter the opponent. pp matter “ We’r e a r e s i l i e n t m, and we’ve got g to go g team, p that at 12 outt and prove m. on Saturdayy against g p.m. rcyhurst,” Lutz said.

Mercyhurst,”

SPORTS

October 22, 2021

C-3

The final race

By Madison Williams Sports Editor

After a 36-year tenure at Slippery Rock, Coach John Papa is hanging up the running shoes to conclude coaching his final match in the 2022 season. A former cross-country runner at The Rock, Papa started his career in the same town where it began. Like all kids he enjoyed playing on the playground, but he quickly realized he was much faster than the other kids.

In 1975 he began his freshman year at Slippery Rock as a part of the team where he took the title of conference champion.

The team was Division champions within the NCAA at the time.

All in good fortune, Papa decided to announce that he was planning to retire after the conclusion of the 2022 season. He hadn’t originally planned on it, but following the COVID-19 year he knew what he had to do. In the best interest of incoming recruits, he feels now is the right time.

As for his agenda in retirement, Papa has no set game plan. An avid mountain biker, traveler and camper, he plans to continue using his time to do more of those things he loves. He and his wife have seven grandchildren residing within the Slippery Rock area, and the two of them love The Rock community.

For those reasons among many others, he plans to stay local and show his face at meets on occasion.

When it comes to passing the torch off to someone else, there is no definite decision made. Papa said he would like to see Bill Jordan, his assistant of 15 years, be promoted to head coach. In his opinion, he is next in line and fits the same style of coaching. As a coach, Papa says you should learn to listen and take advice. “ Yo u d o n’t k n o w everything, making mistakes is okay and being yourself is the best advice I have,” he said.

In many ways Jordan has similar techniques to the current system. Papa

also noted that the recent addition of Tabatha Beam has been an extraordinary help since joining the staff.

From the time he ran in college to the time he became coach, Papa stayed in touch and held long-lasting relationships to acquire his spot. Bill Lennox, former SRU crosscountry coach, was later the athletic director. He had the opportunity to coach Papa, encouraged him to become a graduate assistant, and then hired him for the job years later.

“Slippery Rock has been fortunate to have amazing directors like Lennox, Lueken, and now Page," he said.

He says is proud to be here and make these connections.

“Maybe I realized it was time when COVID allowed me to see what it’s like to enjoy a Saturday with my family," he said about his decision to retire. He added that being in good health and leaving the program in good shape made transitioning out smoother.

Being passionate about coaching is something that will likely follow him in whatever he chooses to do throughout retirement. “I’ll find something new to be passionate about, maybe even yardwork,” he said with a smile.

Something that will stick with him forever, though, are the memories with current players or alumni and connections he’s made with other coaches. Most of all he said he will miss the 6:00 a.m. practices in the dark, where most of the fun was had.

“Those little things are the biggest things I’ll miss the most,” he said.

Guiding them to trust one another and improve their own personal skills is all up to him. “Some of the most notable parts of taking pride in your coaching is watching your athletes develop,” he said.

Prior to taking on the role of coach, Papa led in the classroom as a teacher.

Coaching high school students prepared him for his future positions

in collegiate athletics and Slippery Rock admissions.

Eager to continue his education, Papa earned his master’s degree in Athletic Admistration in under one year.

The decision to retire weighed heavily on him and became a mental dilemma. As times are changing, so is the way recruiting, communicating and playing works. Technology played a large role in his choice to let someone more comfortable with the current trends take the reign.

“When technology first came out, I thought it might just be a phase," he said. Social media has affected his decision tremendously and he prefers communicating in old-fashioned ways. Often, he said he finds himself being bailed out by the other coaches who are more tech savvy than him.

As for final words of advice to those coming into the program, Papa says, “Give it your best effort because the time goes by quickly and leave yourself with no regrets.”

"Maybe I realized it was time when COVID allowed me to see what it was like to enjoy a Saturday with my family."

– John Papa, head track and field coach

KEEGAN BEARD / THE ROCKET

John Papa and his team grin from ear to ear after a winning day of competition. He said he knew he had to tell his team about his decision right away, as it would affect the future and the current track and field team.

3,000 miles from Spain

CONTINUED FROM PAGE C-1

It was important to him that he came somewhere where he was close to a b i g c i t y t o o. L u c k y f o r h i m , Pi t t s b u r g h i s only about 45 minutes from Slippery Rock.

Pittsburgh is a city he’s come to appreciate a lot.

"I find a lot of similarities in Pittsburgh and Madrid, it has all those that make it become a top city in the states. I've been t o Ne w Yo r k , but I choose Pittsburgh o v e r Ne w Yo r k , " Fe r n a n d e z said. "It's a cleaner city, I l ove t h e w a y o f t h e distribution of stores and how the stadiums are close together, and it honestly made an impact on my decision to come here."

Fernandez loves the city of Pittsburgh, because it almost reminds him of home.

But unlike home, nearly everyone here speaks English. Something he didn't have to do at home, but he tried to learn regardless.

In Spain, he tried to attend as many English-speaking academies as he could, but it wasn’t until he got here that he really began to learn how to speak

the English language.

Upon arriving here, he knew his English wasn’t good enough, but just by hanging out with his teammates, he was able to learn.

“When I got here the English I had was not good enough, I struggled with every sentence,

every word, and everything I wanted to say,” Fernandez said.

“By speaking and listening, but mostly listening, I gained the vocabulary that I use nowadays.”

Soon he took to the field with those same

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE SCHNELLE

teammates who had been helping him learn the English language. On the field, he experienced a lot of success. He started every game his freshman year and, in those games, he would net five goals and had t w o a s s i s t s . Hi s 12 points were the second most on the team.

“To be honest I didn’t expect to do that well in my first season,” Fernandez said. “I got used to American soccer, which I don’t think is worse, but is definitely different.”

Fernandez did so well that he w a s n a m e d A l l - P S AC We s t . W h e n i t w a s announced the team was coming back from a game and stopped to grab something to eat, but Fernandez didn’t have a phone at the t i m e , so he d i d n’t e v e n k n o w until his teammates came up to him and told him.

“When I got named first team Western PSAC I was surprised, because I didn’t know how it worked, I knew they gave player

of the week but I didn’t know they gave out all these awards at the end of the season,” Fernandez said. “When I found out we were at Chipotle, and I didn’t have a phone or Wi-Fi at the time, so my teammates were coming up and saying congratulations and I didn’t know what was going on.”

He w a s a k e y p i e c e i n the team that finally broke through to make it back to the playoffs.

That team lost in the first round of the PSAC tournament, 3-0 to Mercyhurst U n i v e r s i t y, b u t t h e steps were taken.

“Through the season we saw that we had chances to make playoffs, and we could see clearly the top two teams were Gannon and Mercyhurst, but we weren’t the team chosen to win the PSAC that year, so just making the playoffs was an achievement,” Fernandez said.

Only a few months later, COVID-19 would hit. At the time that things started to get crazy he was in Florida, but on March 14 his mom got him a plane ticket to come home before things were shut down.

Over the months of the pandemic, Fernandez’s itch to get back on the field grew and grew. By the time it was nearly time for the season to begin in 2020 he knew it would likely be canceled. He had to wait a whole year to finally return to action, but the disappointment of losing his sophomore season is

still there.

“It was sad when the season was canceled, because I was re really excited to play my ssophomore season, but I figured it wouldn’t happen because in things weren’t the summer thi doing well,” Fernandez said. finally got When he fi back onto the field, his excitement wa was like no o t h e r. H e w a s f i n a l l y back on the pitch and was playing in c o m p e t i t i ve g a m e s f o r The Rock. It w was a long 659 days ffor or him, and ever yone on tthe team.

“I played over the summer in the USL 2 f o r a c l u b i n We s t Virginia, so I was e xc i t e d t o p u t a l l t h e things I learned over there to pract practice here,” Fernandez said. said “I gre w a lot as a player, playe so I was really happy tto show it to my teammates and coach.”

In the first game of the season, The Rock squared off with College and Lake Erie Co Fe r n a n de Fernan dez w waa s a b l e t o put the ball in the back of the net for the first goal of the season on kick. It was a penalty kic even sweeter tthat it was against ag ainst th thee ggoalkeeper who he played with for West Virginia United.

This Th is season so far, he three goals has put up th a n d t h re e a s s i s t s , a n d there is still a lot of Making first time left. Ma West hasn’t team PSAC W left le ft h his is mind either, he wants to do it again.

That’s one of his goals this season. But the biggest one is helping bring a PSAC title back to Slipper y Rock. “ I t h i n k t h a t w e’v e seen possibilities and chances to win the P S A C , a n d I d o n’t k n ow i f i t’s o u r m a i n g o a l , b u t i t’s d e f i n i t e l y something we want to d o ,” Fe r n a n d e z s a i d . “ I w a n t Sl i p p e r y Ro c k t o b e o n e o f t h e t o p t h re e or four teams in the c o n f e re n c e , a n d i f t h a t comes from winning the PSAC then that w o u l d b e a m a z i n g .”

"I find a lot of similarities in Pittsburgh and Madrid, it has all those that make it become a top city in the states."

– Alejandro Fernandez, SRU soccer player

SPORTS

C-4

October 22, 2021

Rock tennis comes back swinging

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE SCHNELLE

By Tyler Howe Assistant Sports Editor

The Rock tennis team returned to campus along with the rest of the students, and unknown to most of the campus, they returned fully vaccinated. They were the first team on the entire campus to be fully vaccinated from COVID-19. The feat is even more impressive considering the team consists of almost entirely international players.

Like the other sports, tennis was able to return to action in the spring and there were a variety of protocols.

From having to social distance to wearing masks to getting tested weekly. All protocols had to be followed to make it safe for teams to return to play.

“We came in vaccinated, and we were the first team to be fully vaccinated on campus and god bless lacrosse, I love them but we were the first team vaccinated,” Coach Matt Meredith said. “We find it to be a sportsmanship thing, because we want to be healthy enough that we can

do our sport and also know that we won’t be a problem for another team.”

Meredith did joke that while they didn’t need any incentives to get vaccinated, his team wouldn’t mind taking some sweatshirts. But in general, he’s just proud of his team for being vaccinated at all.

While the fall is not the tennis team’s official season, it is extremely important in building chemistry.

Especially with the amount of players that haven’t played together for very long.

The longest tenured player on the team is now Lois Page, who is a junior.

She is the only player who was here during 2019, when COVID-19 hit. Now, fast forward and she’s a captain.

She lives with some of the players, and when she was asked her favorite part about it jokingly said, “Well they make some pretty Spanish food.”

Page has earned a ton of accolades here at The Rock.

She’s been named All-PSAC West four times now. In 2019, her and Viola Lugmayr

won both the ITA Atlantic Region Doubles and the PSAC doubles. That same year she was named an ITA All-American.

“She’s been everything I thought she would be when I brought her in, she’s become a very capable leader and been dominate on the court as well,” Meredith said. “She is one of the top players in our region, and she has come over injuries this year, and she has come out on top.”

Now she’s without Lugmayr, but she’s still arguably one of the best doubles players in the PSAC. For the second time, she’s paired with Adriana Gonzalez Sanchez. The duo took the court together for the first time in the Spring, and they dominated. They put up a record of 9-3.

“I will say that team will be intact, and I’m already excited that they’re together,” Meredith said. “I expect them to be one of the top teams in the region.”

Gonzalez Sanchez was named PSAC West Athlete of the Year for the 20202021. On the court she was

unstoppable last year. She went undefeated in PSAC action and at one point had a win streak of 11 matches.

She has been a force and the pairing of her and Page makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the PSAC. Matter of fact, they spent most of last season ranked in the ITA doubles poll.

Gonzalez Sanchez is one of three players from Spain on the tennis team. Ironically, all three transferred here.

Gonzalez Sanchez came from Saint Louis University, while Gabriela Del Val Del Toro came from Coker University and Nuria Martin Lopez came from Nicholls State University.

The team is almost all new.

No one except for Page has gone through a normal fall season before. That gives not only Meredith, but also Page a lot to help everyone work on.

The fall is important to get incoming players acclimated to playing at Slippery Rock, and also gives everyone the opportunity to have some competition during the offseason. This year, it’s also

about getting back to normal and staying safe.

“We had three new kids come in, two freshman who have done extremely well and hopefully we won’t be calling them freshman in the spring, we’ll hopefully be calling them super freshman,” Meredith said. “They’re learning to be on the court and play college tennis and it’s going really well.”

Those two freshmen are Georgie Lancaster and Teddi Isherwood. Lancaster is from Bromley, England, while Isherwood is from down the road. Both are experiencing college play for the first time.

Isher wood is the only player that is not international and she also new to the team. The team consists of two players from England and three from Spain. “ I t ’s b e e n d i f f e r e n t i n a g o o d w a y, w e’r e probably learning more Spanish than anyone on campus,” Meredith said jokingly. “I have more internationals players this year than I ever

have, and I don’t think that’s a bad thing.”

The fall season has already concluded and there were five competitions that were held. Page was the runnerup in the ITA Atlantic Regional tournament. She was able to add that to her already impressive resume.

She now sits at 98 wins, and Meredith can’t wait to see her get to 100.

“That’s the whole goal when you bring kids in here, not just to have 100 wins but to develop into not just a great tennis player, but a great student athlete,” Meredith said. “And she is all of those things.”

Overall, just being back out on the court h a s b e e n a we s o m e f o r the team. Being back has made all the difference in helping the girls get used to being here.

“I can’t even tell you how much we enjoy being back out there, and what a difference it makes,” Meredith said. “There is no comparison to last year, because last year felt like being in jail.”

Serving up a cure

By Madison Williams Sports Editor

Earlier this year Coach Laurie Lokash said that she wished for a hopeful outcome this volleyball season and for the girls to get back into the groove of playing.

Winning wasn’t on the forefront, but simply getting back onto the court was the goal. It has certainly been an uphill battle for the squad that sits at 1-8 within the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). The remainder of the season will be focused on improvement.

Their 2019 season they ended with a 2-16 overall conference record.

Things are unfolding now quite similar, and the COVID-19 pandemic didn't help their cause out too much.

On a m o re p o s i t i ve n o t e , t h e yo u n g t e a m is gaining valuable experience and hopefully will apply it in seasons to come.

As for this week, the team has a full agenda between three separate matchups. On Tuesday night The Rock rallied for a five-set battle that they ultimately lost to Mercyhurst University.

Their lone win for the season came against Mercyhurst the first time they played. However, this time Slippery Rock

couldn’t hold on to the lead in the final set.

Next on the schedule The Rock will travel t o r i va l Un i ve r s i t y o f Pittsburgh-Johnstown Friday at 7 p.m. sharp.

UPJ is the only other team within the PSAC that Slippery Rock

came close to defeating.

Establishing a game plan for the future of the volleyball program in years to come remains highly important.

The upcoming weekend will finish off the trio of games as the team has their annual Dig for

the Cure event at home this Saturday at 2 p.m. vs Kutztown University.

Do n a t i o n s f o r b re a s t cancer awareness will be collected and all online donations made before then will be automatically entered to win a Rockthemed volleyball gear set.

M o n e y, c h e c k o r credit card payments collected throughout the day will go directly t o t h e Pe n n s y l v a n i a Breast Cancer Coalition (PBCC). The PBCC offers mammogram's and care free of cost.

In addition to regular

GRAPHIC BY: HANNAH SLOPE

donations, there will be a bake sale, 50/50 raffle, T- s h i r t s a l e , s e r v i n g contest and raffle gift baskets. Those currently battling breast cancer or in remission are welcome to join the team for an honorary announcement on the court.

November will finish out the season for the volleyball team. The team has a Make-A-Wish game at home against Clarion on Friday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. The following day, Nov. 6 will be senior recognition day at 1 p.m.

The team will celebrate L a u r e n We b e r, C a c e y C o o k , L a u re n Cr y t ze r a n d Ti a r a Te a g u e o n their career before facing In d i a n a Un i v e r s i t y o f Pennsylvania.

Abigail Koeller, Alayna Chizmar, and Stephanie O'Donnell will step-up to try and bring home a pink-out win.

In a l l 1 5 ye a r s t h a t this event was held, the volleyball team has raised over $28,000 toward research and treatments.

One in eight women in the United States will d e v e l o p b re a s t c a n c e r at some point in their life. Typically, there is no prior family history among breast cancer cases, 85 percent to be exact.

To e m p o w e r t h o s e women we ask you to wear pink and mark your caldenders for this event.

Slippery Rock volleyball is dedicated to spiking out cancer.

C

VIDEO: Healthfest at SRU

CAMPUS LIFE

Candlelit Vigil honoring LGBTQ lives

By Sarah Anderson Campus Life Editor

RockOUT kicked o f f Pr i d e We e k w i t h their annual Candlelit Vigil Monday in the S R S G A Pa v i l i o n t o honor those in the L G B TQ c o m m u n i t y

". . . I used to have to explain myself and defend my sexuality, and that's less of the case."

– Frankie Walker, president of RockOUT

who have lost their lives to homophobic and transphobic violence.

The club officers covered the tables in the pavilion with a variety of Pride flags and gave each participant a candle for the ceremony.

President of RockOUT Fr a n k i e Wa l k e r we n t around lighting each individuals candle and the group formed into a half circle while Walker gave a speech.

He called for a moment of silence before talking about the importance o f re m e m b e r i n g a n d celebrating members of the LGBTQ community who have lost their lives and paved the way for them.

SRU has made large steps in recent years towards steps for inclusion, specifically for the LGBTQ c o m m u n i t y. Wa l k e r mentioned a recent club, TRANSaction, to be a newer organization that has been making an impact, along with RockOUT and President's Commission for Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation (GIESO).

But members of the LG B TQ c o m m u n i t y on campus continue to

experience hate speech.

Wa l k e r re c a l l e d a n experience at The Ivy where he heard someone call him a homophobic slur.

Miriam Syed, treasurer of RockOUT, talks about the differences in Slippery Rock during the academic semester versus during the summer, when the town isn't full of students.

"I live in Slipper y Rock in the summers so it becomes very dead and filled with people who just live in town," Syed said. "It's a much more conservative town, which is strange because our school is very liberal."

Vice President of RockOUT Olivia Kerstetter also had a negative experience while out in the community during the summer months. " I a l s o l i v e d h e re during the summer, and it's nothing major, but I was in the Dunkin' line and this old man looked at me and said 'You're a waste,'" Kerstetter said.

RockOUT continues to recognize how the L G B TQ c o m m u n i t y faces the most hate in Slippery Rock during the summer, and they are thankful for the steps they've made at the

RAYNI SHIRING / THE ROCKET The ceremony begins with everyone's candle being lit by the president of RockOUT. Following this, the group gathered together while Walker gave a speech about LGBTQ lives lost to homophobic violence.

university towards being more inclusive.

Pride Week included many events to celebrate the community, including the Arts Fest, Queer Bingo, Acceptance Day and the Drag Show, which is a fan favorite on campus.

Walker talked about the changes in the LGBTQ community at SRU. As a senior, he has seen a shift over the past four years.

"It's definitely less taboo. I don't have to explain myself to as many people as I used to, especially just seeing someone on campus," Walker said. "They don't ask questions anymore and that's actually a really good step in the right direction because I used to have to explain myself and defend my sexuality, and that's less of the case."

Similar to many other clubs and organizations, the period of being online had caused some challenges with participation. With this semester being in person, RockOUT is finally able to host their events and have people attend.

"It's just so hear twarming to be back doing this stuff in person," Walker said.

RAYNI SHIRING / THE ROCKET

CAMPUS LIFE

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October 22, 2021

Pride Week events return at SRU

By Morgan Miller Asst. Campus Life Editor

Pride Week provided a time for the campus community to recognize and show support to the L G B T Q c o m m u n i t y.

The week, from Oct. 18 to Oct. 23, consisted of the Candlelit Vigil, Ar ts Fest, Queer Bingo, Acceptance Day and the Drag Show.

RockOUT hosted five events that filled a variety of interests, hoping to get more members and students involved. President

o f R o c k O U T Fr a n k i e Fest presented work by Wa l k e r s h a r e d s o m e a n d f o r t h o s e o f t h e insight into the events L G B T Q c o m m u n i t y. held during Pride Week. St u d e n t s w e r e i n v i t e d “ We u s u a l l y s t a r t to join RockOUT at the w i t h t h e C a n d l e l i t Sm i t h St u d e n t C e n t e r Vigil to remind us why (SSC) Lounge to vie w we’re doing it and that the ar twork and enjoy we are able to do this p i z z a . Tw o p i e c e s o f because of the members ar t we re displayed, one of our community who b y M a r i a n G r a t a a n d h a ve c o m e b e f o re u s ,” a n o t h e r b y M a i a l e n Walker said.

Petrissans.

The Candlelit Vigil G r a t a’s w o r k w a s was held on Monday at l a b e l e d “ T h e B e s t 8 p.m. in The Quad. o f E a c h O t h e r” a n d This event is typically “ H a r m o n i o u s K i s s . ” a s m a l l e r a n d m o r e Pe t r i s s a n s ' w o r k w a s solemn event. inspired by other art On Tuesday, the Ar ts s h e f o u n d . A l l p i e c e s

HANNAH SLOPE / THE ROCKET RockOUT hosted an Arts Fest which showcased two students work, one was inspired by another piece of work. The event was in the SSC Lounge and included art and pizza.

RAYNI SHIRING / THE ROCKET The campus community was welcome at RockOUT's Candlelit Vigil where they honored members of the LGBTQ community. Students gathered around together to share a few words.

of ar t were acr ylic on canvas.

“It seems like the interests of art and being a part of the queer community often align,” Walker said. “It is very important for an ar tist to share par t of them or par t of their story through art. I think painting ar t that re l a t e s t o t h e LG BTQ experience is just a way of telling their stor y.”

On Wednesday, Queer Bingo was hosted in the SSC Theatre. Students were encouraged to come out and play bingo with a chance to

win several different prizes.

Acceptance Day was scheduled to be held during common h o u r o n T h u r s d a y.

RockOUT had invited organizations and clubs t o s h ow t h e i r s u p p o r t of the LGBTQ students who attend SRU at The Quad.

O n S a t u r d a y, t h e RockOUT Drag Show will be held in the SSC Ballroom.

Tickets are $2.50 and can be purchased through the SRU website or at the front desk of the SSC. Ro c k O U T p a r t n e re d with the Office of

Student Engagement and Leadership. The night will consist of five drag queens who will present a night full of “high kicks, death drops and the splits.”

The event will also consist of giveaways o f p r i z e s , c a n d y, g i f t cards and laptop s t i c k e r s .

To s t a y u p t o d a t e with RockOUT events or learn more about the RockOUT Drag S h o w o n S a t u r d a y, follow @srurockout on Instagram and @ Rockout at SRU on Facebook.

Healthfest offers wellness tips ! "

By Morgan Miller Asst. Campus Life Editor

On Tuesday, Oct. 19 the Office of Campus Recreation held the 35th Healthfest at the Aebersold Student Recreation Center (ARC). The event was held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with exhibits from on and off campus organizations presenting health and wellness lifestyle information. This event held over 20 exhibits that offered a variety of information on healthy lifestyles tips.

Exhibits includes: American Cancer Society, Aramark, Arbonne, Boost Peer Mentors, Butler Lions Club, Center for Community Resources, CORE, Doctorate of Physical Therapy Students, Exercise Science Students, Fitness and Wellness Club, Giant Eagle Pharmacy, Graduate Admissions, HOPE Peer Educators,

"This provides nutrition and wellness information along with recipes and cooking tips."

– Rock Dining Registered Dietitian, Nicole Dann-Payne

Keystone We l l n e s s Pro g r a m s , Nova C a re Rehabilitation, Office of Inclusive Excellence, Physical Activity & Fi t n e s s Ma n a g e m e n t Students, Physician’s Assistant Students, Pivot Physical Therapy, Public Health Students, Rock Powerlifting Club, Student C o u n s e l i n g C e n t e r, Student Health Services, Tri-Rivers Musculoskeletal and Wise Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine.

Ryan Stack, assistant director of fitness and wellness, and coordinator of Healthfest spoke on the mission of the event.

“This is basically just an event where student groups, professors and some of the academic departments will send students down and some outside groups come in to basically present a variety of different information about healthy lifestyles and healthy choices,” Stack said.

Stack said that the Healthfest has always been a community event but recently there has been a greater focus on the student experience. The event is organized to keep specific student organizations and classes in the same general area to present a flow of information.

A r a m a r k p r ov i d e d students with healthy snack samples and nutritional guidance. They provide various health and wellness icons they have been teaching students.

Registered Dietitian with Rock Dining, Nicole Dann-Payne, spoke to students about the health and wellness icons and indicators to help students understand their dining choices on campus.

“We actually have a health and wellness campaign,” D a n n - Pa y n e s a i d .

“Aramark teamed up with the American Heart Association called 'Feed Your Potential.' The campaign is meant to send the message out as far as resources that are available for example a monthly

newsletter. This provides nutrition and wellness information along with recipes and cooking tips.”

Students can use the health and wellness icons and indicators labeled on the menus at various Rock Dining facilities.

The Aramark exhibit took time to teach students at the Healthfest what each icon means, where to look for it and how it can be beneficial to balance a healthy lifestyle.

Along with learning about how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, the exercise science students offered health screenings including body composition, blood pressure and BMI to participants. This was a way for participants to be aware of their current health.

Giant Eagle also provided the flu vaccine to faculty and staff, and the COVID-19 vaccine to students, faculty and staff.

The SRU Student Health Services provided students with the flu vaccine.

The Physical and Health Education department provided exhibits on nutrition, mental health and mental toughness.

The students running the mental health exhibit were current or previous athletes.

The mission of this exhibit was to communicate to athletes that there are healthy ways to cope with anxiety. Sophomore Jailynn Gilbert informed students on mental health of athletes and resources to handle stress and anxiety.

“We really talk about per formance anxiety, the types of anxiety and the different disorders that athletes can develop from anxiety,” Gilbert said.

“Personally, I used to get performance anxiety all the time so I can actually relate to what I am talking about.”

T h e He a l t h f e s t i s always seeking new participants each year to bring awareness to on campus clubs, off campus organizations and other local businesses.

RAYNI SHIRING / THE ROCKET Rock Dining was one of many exhibitors at Healthfest. Registered Dietitan Nicole Dann-Payne was present to talk with students about health and wellness icons on campus.

RAYNI SHIRING / THE ROCKET Students gathered in the ARC gym to talk with various exhibitors about health and wellness. There were over 20 exhibits, having both on and off campus organizations.

October 22, 2021

CAMPUS LIFE

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Winter Guard celebrates 10 years

By Morgan Miller Asst. Campus Life Editor

The Slippery Rock University Winter Guard is a sport of the arts that works to produce a show for several competitions throughout the winter season. Members and staff of the SRU Winter Guard compete to bring awards and notoriety to the university. SRU’s winter guard was initiated

"Kaylee is big on performance and making sure we provide another level of quality."

– Jessica Crandell, president of SRU Winter Guard

PHOTO COURTESY OF SRU WINTER GUARD CORE PAGE The SRU Winter Guard performs following winter break, but preparations begin during the fall semester. Their performances include skills with weapons, rifles, sabre, flags and dance.

by the 2012 Color Guard Captain and previous Director, Bruno Zuccala.

Zuccala was director of the SRU Winter Guard for the past nine years, retiring before the 10-year anniversary. President of the Winter Guard Jessica Crandell spoke on Zuccala's retirement as director of the winter guard.

“A couple students came to him and said they wanted to start this,” Crandell said. “He really helped them put it together

and was the backbone of the organization until he decided to retire. It was very sad to see him go.”

Kaylee Priddy, former color guard and winter guard member, took over the position of director.

Priddy was a member of the Winter Guard for five years before becoming director. Recently, Priddy has assisted in writing choreography and directing the SRU Color Guard.

The winter guard competes in multiple international and national

competitions. To view the 2022 Winter Guard regional event calendar, click here. Slippery Rock Student Government Association (SRSGA) assists the organization with finances regarding travel expenses and preparations needed for competitions.

Auditions for the 2022 Winter Guard were held held Tuesday evening in the Smith Student Center (SSC) Theater. Leading up to the auditions, the organization held sectionals for those

who were interested in learning more about the winter guard and wanted assistance with skills before auditions.

The Winter Guard preparations start early in the fall semester for participants to begin practicing choreography before winter break. Within the winter guard, sections include those who are on weapons, rifles, sabre, flag and dance. It is also common for organization members to partake in multiple sections.

“It’s one thing to spin and put on a show, but it’s another to actually p e r f o r m ,” C r a n d e l l said. “Kaylee is big on performance and making sure we provide another level of quality. Kaylee coming in has helped us bring it to another level.”

To stay up to date with all things SRU Winter Guard, follow @sruwinterguard on Instagram and Facebook.

Connect with the winter guard for information on CORE.

WEEKLY ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT Guitar Club

Japanese Club

By Morgan Miller

members, talk with them about upcoming events Asst. Campus Life Editor and what they want to do,” Maloney said. “Then we will The Guitar Club at Slippery break off into small groups Rock University provides and just hangout and talk students with a relaxing with each other.” space to get away from the Most members provide classroom and connect with their own instruments but other students through the club does provide a few music. The organization has guitars for those who need been at SRU for about five them. Maloney mentioned years. The club is always that members learn from seeking new members, those one another and grow as with or without experience. musicians while a part of the The club meets every club.

Thursday night from 6:30 “I think we do grow,” p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Maloney said. “We have Swope Music Hall room 135. some people who like to President of the Guitar share what they are listening Club, Eric Maloney, a senior to and teach other songs from computer science major with what they have been learning. a minor in communications, Through them you learn new has been a member of the tips and tricks. We also offer organization since his beginner lessons, only on a freshman year. Maloney request basis.” spoke about what a typical The Guitar Club also meeting is like for the club. hosts events for the SRU “It is a really laid back, community. Previous events casual environment where the club held were open mic we will hang out with our nights in 2019 and then

a garage concert in 2020.

Because of COVID-19 and being virtual, the club got a few members together and held a garage concert series.

The organization is holding a Music Festival on Nov. 5 from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Quad Tent. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the music will begin at 7 p.m.

This is the organization’s first music festival which will feature performances by SRU students and local bands from Pittsburgh. Performers featuring at the festival include Atlantic Wasteland and FYD! This event is free to the community. Students can sign up for this event on CORE by Oct. 31.

To j o i n t h e c l u b , students can connect w i t h t h e Gu i t a r C l u b on CORE, through In s t a g r a m a n d Tw i t t e r @guitarclubsr or Facebook @Guitar Club of Slippery Rock.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIC MALONEY Guitar Club meets weekly on Thursday nights in Swope Music Hall where they group up, hang out and play music together. They have had previous performances in 2019 and 2020.

By Brooke Miller Advertising Manager

The Japanese Club has been an organization at SRU for over 15 years.

The club requires no language experience, encouraging all students to join, learn and engage with the culture in a variety of ways. A few activities the club hosts are kimono paper designs, anime night and tea night ceremonies, to list a few.

President of the Japanese C l u b, C l a r i s s a Sp a h r, senior art education major and communication minor has been involved with the club for three years.

“Our goal is for the immersion experience in promoting diversity and global learning through Japanese culture on campus, but led and organized only by students,” said Spahr.

Spahr said the activities held by the Japanese Club change depending on who is president of the club and depending on the interests of the club overall.

“Since I focus on education, I look to more art-based activities like designing paper kimonos and the history of kimonos,” said Spahr. “I know some members were interested in traditional Japanese music so we will have a meeting focused on the information that way.”

Since back on campus, the Japanese Club has involved themselves on campus more than ever before. Last week was the first time the Japanese Club had par ticipated in the homecoming events on campus. The club decorated a window

by Weisenfluh for the window wars event and

created a float for the parade.

Next semester the club hopes to hold a "Demon Slayer" movie event and other cultural events based upon that. The Japanese Club also hopes to partner with different clubs with the purpose o f a p p re c i a t i n g o t h e r cultures.

On Friday, Oct. 29, the Japanese Club is hosting Yokai by the Fire. The event will be held in the Greater Room of Building F from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Students who are interested in joining Japanese Club at SRU can find more information through CORE. Students can also connect with t h e Ja p a n e s e c l u b o n In s t a g r a m @ j a p a n e s e _ club_of_sru. Meetings are held weekly and alternate between in person and online via Zoom.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLARISSA SAPHR Japanese Club learns and engages with Japense culture and are open to all students. During homecoming week a few members participated in Campus Window Wars.

October 22, 2021

THE ROCKET

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Guidance for majors and minors

By Tyler Howe Assistant Sports Editor

It’s been nine weeks since the fall semester started. This semester marked the return of students to campus and among those students are two classes who have never had college in person. To help students who may be questioning or are still exploring their major, the Academic Se r v i c e s D e p a r t m e n t hosted a Majors and Minors Expo Tuesday during common hour.

The expo was hosted in the ballroom on the third floor of the Smith Student Center (SSC).

It included majors and minors from the College of Business, College of Education, College of Health, Engineering, and Science and College of Liberal Arts. The expo was held virtually last year so being able to do it in person was refreshing for both students and staff.

Grace Gr o e g e r, gr a d u a t e a s s i s t a n t i n t h e c a re e r e d u c a t i o n d e v e l o p m e n t c e n t e r, spoke on the changes in the event from last year to now.

“It’s super exciting, I remember partaking in it last year and the flow of traffic just wasn’t the same, we didn’t get to see as many students because it’s harder to navigate in a vir tual setting more or less,” Groeger said. “But it

is great being able to see people interact and have that face-to-face connection with their possible future majors and minors.”

Groeger represented the career office, which gives students resources to find out what they would be interested in.

If students don’t know

"But it is great being able to see people interact and have that face-to-face connection with their possible future majors and minors.”

– Grace Groeger, graduate assistant in career education development

TYLER HOWE / THE ROCKET The Academic Services Department hosted an event to offer guidance for the two classes of students who may be questioning or exploring their majors. Many programs had a new chance to reach out to students they weren't able to engage with previously.

where to start, this table would be the place to go.

The table at the back of the ballroom offered focus sur veys for students to take in order to help guide them to what best aligns for them. From there, they could direct the student to the majors and minors they might be the most interested in.

The tables included things such as sport management, biology and English. The event gave all these programs

the opportunity to attract some new students and it gave them a chance to give a pitch in person.

Some of the programs may not have had a chance to get students otherwise, and there are always students looking to do new things.

The exercise science table was one of the many tables at the event. Steve Verba and Jeremy Dicus, professors in the exercise science department, helped run the operations. They

were both excited to have the event in person. “ It’s a n e x t r e m e l y important event, there is two groups of students who are less familiar with campus, their program and faculty, and this gives them an opportunity to see what else is out there if they’re interested in making that switch,” Dicus said.

Both acknowledged the fact that being in person makes it much easier for a student to know whether or not they

like the majors they've chosen. The Major and Minor Expo plays a big part in helping guide students. “ We were fortunate that we still had some classes on campus, but it didn’t feel normal,” Verba said. “There’s a whole new energy on campus and in classes, and while it’s a struggle to get reacquainted to the face-to-face format, I think it’s nice to have that interaction with students.”