SRU Rocket 10-7-11

Campus Life C-1

Sports

B-1

Football:

Rock Falls:

Rock defense ranked No. 1 in Division II

Local park plays host to annual Folk and Jam Festival

The Rocket www.theonlinerocket.com

Friday, October 7, 2011

Slippery Rock University Student Newspaper

Est. 1934

Volume 94, Number 6

On-campus crime on the rise since 2008

By Steph Holsinger Assistant News Editor

A recent report by Slippery Rock University’s campus police has revealed that instances of certain crimes on campus such as aggravated assault, forcible sex offenses and drug law violations have been continuously increasing since 2008.

Reports of forcible sex offenses on campus have increased from two in 2008 to four in 2010,

all of which occurred in the residence halls. According to Chief Michael Simmons of SRU’s police department, only one of these sexual assaults was reported to campus police.

In the other three cases, the information was provided by SRU’s Women’s Center and no further action was taken at the request of the victims. Since these instances were reported, the police department has offered Rape Aggression Defense (RAD)

Job outlook grim for grads

training to provide self-defense instruction and educational awareness against rape and violent crime.

Last year, 19 arrests were made on campus for drug law violations, 13 of which were in the residence halls, which was a significant increase from a mere seven in 2008. According to Simmons, more arrests are being made for drug law violations because of better training of staff on campus.

“We believe there has been an increase in drug law violations due to better training of staff and CA’s who are reporting more incidents so that intervention can take place,” Simmons said.

Since joining SRU’s police force, Simmons has started a community oriented policing initiative known as the AdoptA-Hall program. The program partners officers and campus safety with residence halls in an attempt to increase

communication and build trust between students and the SRU police department.

“Having regular contact with residence hall staff and students allows officers to relay concerns of the students to applicable police department divisions, conduc t cr ime pre vent ion programs and create a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to policing,” Simmons said.

SEE AWARENESS, PAGE A-2

SRU shows puppy love in the quad

By Will Deshong Rocket Staff Reporter

The current economic recession in the United States is still taking its toll on the nation’s unemployment rate, with the most recent numbers hovering around 9.1 percent.

A dilemma mostly dealt with by the lower class at the beginning of the economic downturn in 2008, the misfortune soon found its way to the likes of college graduates.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for people with a bachelor’s degree was 4.6 percent in August of 2011.

While that is low in comparison to the national average, suggesting gaining a bachelor’s degree is still a better option than not, and while it is a slight drop from the five percent mark from a year ago, it’s a far cry from the pre-recession 2007 figures when it was under two percent.

LIANNA PITTMAN/THE ROCKET

Slippery Rock University students London Parris, an undecided freshman and Gillian Clarke, a junior Spanish and business administration major, pet a great dane during the Blue Key Honor Society's Walk-A-Pup program on Thursday. The dogs are from the Great Dane Society, and the proceeds go to help with medical expenses for the dogs. All of the dogs at the Great Dane Society are rescues.

SEE GRADS, PAGE A-5

SRU hosts D2L information session

By Will Deshong Rocket Staff Reporter

LIANNA PITTMAN/THE ROCKET

Cory Gaber, the Account Manager for Desire2Learn, explains to the crowd how D2L works, and how faculty and students can better utilize it at the D2L Regional Information Session on Thursday.

D e s i r e 2 L e a r n representatives discussed new features and initiatives for the company’s learning management system at their Regional Information Session held at the Alumni House on Thursday.

Cory Gaber, the account manager for Desire2Learn, and D av id Hor ne, t he technical solutions engineer for the company, each gave presentations on the new

technical aspects of the company and its plans of development going forward.

Desire2Learn was founded in 1999 and is headquartered i n K it c h e n e r, O nt ar i o.

Gaber, who has been with the company for eight years, spoke about its growth.

“When I started, we had 30 employees, now we have 300,” Gaber said of the system that now sports 6 million users.

Both Gaber and Horne sp oke in lengt h ab out developments in mobile browsing, analytics, learning

r e p o s i t o r y, e Po r t f o l i o s and the new features in the learning environment system most commonly used by faculty and students at Slippery Rock University.

New features such as an interactive seating chart that tracks grades, participation and attendance will be available in the updated version of the system which will be ready for use by the spring semester.

SEE STUDENTS, PAGE A-4

News

A-2

Rock Notes

October 7, 2011

Awareness, education improve safety Continued from Page a-1

Study Abroad Informational Meetings

Interested in traveling to new places, meeting new people, and learning about different cultures? Study Abroad is a great opportunity to do all of these things! To find out more information about Study Abroad come to an Informational Meeting, held weekly on Tuesdays 12:30pm – 1:30pm or Wednesdays 1:00pm – 2:00pm, Carruth Rizza Hall, Room 212.

Act now, the Application Deadlines will soon be fast approaching! Questions? Contact International Services Graduate Assistant Tess Crispin at tmc0451@sru.edu.

Second Annual Rocktober Open 2011

The second annual Rocktober Open 2011 will be held on October 14, 2011 at 10 a.m. at the Tam O'Shanter Golf Course.

The event costs $65 for an individual golfer, and $255 for a foursome. To register, or if you have any questions, contact Kris Nolt at kmn3973@sru.edu.

Student Teaching Pre-Registration

Students planning on teaching during the Summer/Fall 2012 semester should pre-register for student teaching by November 1, 2011. Please see your advisor for more information.

Students must take all Praxis exams prior to student teaching.

Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month Events

*To commemorate Hispanic/Latino(a) heritage month, the following events will be held in the month of October: Slippery Rock University’s Hispanic-Latino Cultures Series Annual Dinner will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011 at El Compadre’s Mexican Restaurant, 1809 S. Center St. Ext, Grove City, from 7:00 pm—8:30 pm. Admission is $6.00 per pre-sale ticket. No tickets are to be sold at the door; only 75 tickets are available. Contact Dr. Itzi Meztli at x4933 for further information and/or to purchase pre-sale tickets. Featured Speaker is Wendy Bolivar, and her presentation is entitled: “The increasing relevancy of Hispanics in the United States." *Latino/Hispanic Independence Days Celebration/Games will be held on Tuesday, October 18th during common hour in the University Union lobby.

According to Ke vin Currie, the director of residence life, everyone who lives in the residence halls plays a part in ensuring the safety of those living there, and there are many initiatives in place to help assure the safety of all residents. One of these initiatives is the card readers that can be seen at every residence hall entrance.

“We know that students of t e n “t a i l g at e” i nt o the residence halls, by following another student into the building while the door is open,” Currie said. “While it may not seem polite, students need to recognize their part in ensuring their safety by using their card to gain access every time they enter and not letting people tailgate into the building after them. “ Currie also believes that the increase in the number of crimes can be attributed to more students reporting them.

“Our Community Assistants receive specific training about reporting crimes, as well as general student concerns to staff so that interventions can occur,” he said. “This, to me, is a sign that our staff

and residents are taking an increased interest and are recognizing their part in assuring the safety of the community as a whole. “ Nichole Young, a junior dance major, expressed her opinion on crime prevention at SRU. “I think the crime rate has risen in the residence halls and on campus because there is a larger volume of students attending SRU, so there is less monitoring of student activity,” she said. “I think to prevent these crimes in the future, we should have increased security on campus, such as more video cameras to catch the crimes being committed.”

Young said that she has formerly taken self defense classes offered at a summer program in Columbus, Ohio.

“I feel that I am better equipped to handle a situation in which my safety is in danger,” she said. “These classes have greatly benefitted me.”

Erin Lankes, a senior secondary English education major, thinks that residence hall rules should be better communicated to the students.

“Maybe emails could be sent before students arrive on campus, and then those rules can be reviewed

during floor meetings,” she said. “More cameras could be installed in the residence halls.”

“Students need to learn to become more aware of their actions,” Lankes said.

“Maybe residence halls can set up an anonymous tip box or phone line so students can report crimes that occur directly in their buildings.”

According to Simmons, the key to crime prevention is education. Ever yone needs to take responsibility for his or her own safety and for the safety of others on campus. Simmons offered the following information to students and others: Listen to and act on your intuition. It’s better to be safe and risk a little embarrassment than stay in an uncomfortable situation that may be unsafe.

D o not wa l k a lone at night. Don’t wear headphones while walking or jogging. Carry your cell phone in your hand.

Call University Police for a campus escort at 724738-3333.

Keep your eyes and ears open and your hands free. Be aware of your surroundings.

Tell someone where you’ll be and what time you’re supposed to return, or if you’ll be with someone

you don’t know well.

Don’t walk or jog early in the morning or late at night when streets are deserted.

Try to park in well-lit areas with good visibility an d cl o s e to store s , walkways or people.

Think before you drink.

Alcohol impairs your judgment.

If you are victimized, or see a crime or suspicious activity, report it to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately.

Your actions can help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

If you are the victim of a sexual assault and are uncomfortable with cont ac ting t he p olice d i re c t l y, c ont a c t t h e Women’s Center (724738-2992), Student Health Services (724-7382052), or the Counseling Center (724-738-2034) and trained professionals will help you through the process.

Sign up for e2campus aler ts. That way, if something does happen on campus, you will be in the know.

“SRU works to be a safe campus and community,” Simmons said. “Through all of our efforts, we can work to make it safer.”

"Kick for a Cure"

The fit club will be sponsoring a kickball tournament on Saturday, October 22nd at 9 a.m. at the MAC fields. The cost will be $30 for a team of 10. All proceeds will benefit the Susan G. Komen foundation of Pittsburgh. Questions? Contact Liz Bright at eab@sru.edu

Men's Walk-On Basketball Tryouts

SRU Men's basketball would like to invite all potential walkons for a tryout from 3:15-4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 14th.

The following criteria must be met prior to the tryout: Proof of a physical examination within the last 6 months, completion of the tryout waiver form, and proof of insurance. Questions? call Coach Bryen Spriggs at 724-738-2776.

Play Men's Rugby!

Do you want to play a fun and physical sport, but don't have the time to commit to a varsity sport? Try men's rugby, it's a competitive club sport, and our team plays top schools like the University of Pittsburgh, and West Virginia University. If interested contact Tony Cardamone at amc1861@sru.edu.

Publicize your group's event with a Rock Note.

To submit a Rock Note to be considered for publication, please send your announcement by 6 p.m. Wednesday to: News Editor Brian Brodeur 220 Eisenberg Classroom Building Slippery Rock, PA 16057 e-mail: rocket.news@sru.edu fax: (724) 738-4896 Submissions are not guaranteed to be published.

Index

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Contact us Newsroom: (724) 738-4438 Advertising: (724) 738-2643 Fax: (724) 738-4896

220 Eisenberg Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, PA 16057 Email: rocket.letters@sru.edu

2011 Runner-up most Outstading Newspaper, Society of Collegiate Journalists.

News

October 7, 2011

A-3

Police Blotter Magistrate Sept. 28th- Amanda A. Gordish, 23, of Trafford, Pa., was seen for two counts of DUI. She was released on her own recognizance.

Sept. 28th- Charles Linton Shirey, 20, of Slippery Rock, was seen for fleeing or attempting to elude an officer. He was released on his own recognizance.

Sept. 28 th - David Carl Stauffer, 65, of Portersville, was seen for two counts of DUI. He was released on his own recognizance.

Sept. 28th- Christine Anne Connors, 28, of Butler, was seen for two counts of DUI. She was released on her own recognizance.

Borough Sept. 16th- Megan Moore, 20, was cited for disorderly house.

Sept. 17th- Garrett Flory, 21, was cited for disorderly house.

Sept. 25th- Nicholas Allison, 18, was arrested for a DUI.

Sept 16th- Lucas Patten, 20, was cited for disorderly house.

Sept. 17th- Christopher Wilson, 22, was cited for disorderly house.

Sept. 25th- Cody McCullough, 18, and Brendan Price, 19, were cited for disorderly house.

S ept. 16t h- Ashle y Buchanan, 20, was cited for disorderly house.

Sept. 18th- Mitchell Blackwell, 21, was cited for disorderly house.

Sept. 30th- Joshua T. McClaine, 21, was arrested for a DUI.

Sept. 18th- Louis Gies, 21, was cited for disorderly house.

Oct. 1st- Andrew W. Fricker, 21, was cited for disorderly house.

Sept. 17th- Parker Barrett, 21, was cited for possession of an open container of alcohol.

Sept. 17th- Matthew Konzakowski, 22, was cited for possession of an open container of alcohol.

Sept. 21st- Richard C. Boarts, 40, was cited for retail theft.

Sept. 24th- Sarah Olesky, 21, Jenny Senko, 21, Rebecca Younger, 22, and Caitlin Hancox, 22, were cited for disorderly house.

Campus Sept. 26th- There was a report of a cell phone theft on campus. The case was referred to Pennsylvania State Police.

Sept. 28th- Nicole Bauer, 18; Christopher Bendick, 18; Haley Dudt-Mulzet, and Taylour Trostle, 18, were cited with underage consumption of alcohol after a traffic stop on North Road.

Oct. 1st- John Marcone, 19, was cited with underage consumption of alcohol and Nicholas Schmidt, 20, was cited with underage consumption of alcohol and charged with operation of a vehicle by a minor with alcohol in his system after a traffic stop in the Union Commuter Lot.

Oct. 2nd- Austin Pierce, 18, and Ryan Van Dorick, 18, were cited with underage consumption of alcohol after a traffic stop on Lower Stadium Drive.

Oct. 2 nd - There was a report of harassment at Building A. The case is still under investigation.

Oct. 2 nd - There was a report of sexual assault at Building E. The case is still under investigation.

Compiled by Stephanie Holsinger

News

A-4

October 7, 2011

SGA announces $9,000 stipend cut for spring Students and faculty warming up to D2L · The following actions took place at the Co-Operative Board of Activities meeting on Thursday.

The following students were elected to represent the board as students at large: o Erica Carnahan- Freshman French Business Administration major o Cam Tu NguyenFreshman Biology major o Emily Croutch- Freshman Early Childhood/

Special Education major

· Co-op approved $100 to go towards a sound tech for “Jamnesty,” an event presented by SRU’s Peace Beyond Reason organization. The event is open to everyone and includes: o Bringing local bands to campus o Activities in the quad o Awareness about human rights issues

in America and in the community

· SGA business manager, Cathy George, discussed the pending $9,000 shortage in stipend funds. Because of the rise in tuition, all stipend positions should receive a pay increase.

However, due to the set vending contract with AVI Food Services, which is the only fund allowed to be used to pay stipends, the money isn’t there.

SGA will have to find a remedy for this issue in the spring.

Continued from Page a-1

SRU has been solely using the system since their contract with Blackboard expired in June 2010.

“In 2005, 83 faculty memb ers were using Blackboard, today about two-thirds are using D e s i re 2 L e a r n ,” B r i a n Danielson, SRU’s director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Educational Technology, said at the session.

The transition from Blackboard to D2L was met with some negative views from students and faculty at first, but things are calming down as members of the university are getting used to the system.

“The first semester we had it was hectic, but anymore there’s not a lot of problems with the system itself,” Bill Huber, SRU’s D2L administrator, said. “The switch to the new password through MySRU caused a lot of problems at first, too, but we’re working on it.”

The reasoning for the switch from systems was basically economic.

“One of the main reasons for the switch was the contract with Blackboard expired,” Danielson said.

Following the contract with Blackboard, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education posted a request for proposals to find the next system provider, in which D2L met the favor of the evaluation committee and was awarded a five-year contract.

Of the multiple reasons

why D2L was selected, Danielson feels two stand out as the most prominent.

“Money and functionality were the biggest reasons,” Danielson said.

As for the comparisons between D2L and Blackboard, Danielson feels the university’s current system is superior, as it is more straightforward than Blackboard and has the same features, such as discussion boards and quizzes.

As for the complaint of having to access MySRU in order to log into D2L, Danielson explained the university’s vision on that.

“The idea behind that is a single sign-on,” Danielson said. Instead of signing into D2L then, say, Rockmail, this allows users to manage one password and username.”

Nancy Barta-Smith, an English professor at the university, was in attendance for the session and has had a favorable experience with the system.

“I like it better [than Blackboard],” Barta-Smith said of D2L. “It may be because I’m using more of the features like blogs and wikis this semester. It seems to have more interaction with students than just the discussion boards, like Blackboard had."

Barta-Smith has also found that the system is fairly simple to use.

“It has an easy interface to use and Bill [Huber] and Brian [Danielson] do a good job responding to questions,” she said.

News

A-5

October 7, 2011

Grads of 2010 starting salaries dropped $3,000 after recession, 56 percent employed Continued from Page a-1

Financing four years of higher education will have its impact on any person, regardless of whether the degree is from a prestigious Ivy League school or from a more affordable state school.

With a median student loan debt of $20,000 amongst recent college graduates, the weakening job security that comes with a bachelor’s degree

has made the post-graduation struggle even more strenuous.

“I would say that it is tough out in the real world, and just because a person has a degree, it does not guarantee the individual automatic success,” Shamus Carr, 23, a 2011 graduate of Slippery Rock University, said. “You have to keep working at your skills and have the ability to market yourself in order to succeed.”

Carr is finding that he must

still work hard post-graduation in hopes of finding a job related to his degree in political science.

“Currently, I'm working on getting involved in the county executive race for Allegheny County, and also, I am taking multiple civil service tests and applying for various state jobs,” Carr said of his employment search.

What Carr is experiencing post-graduation is what many of his peers are also going

through. In a study released by the John J. Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers University last May, only 56 percent of graduates of the class of 2010 held a job at the time of the survey.

The survey also shows that the post-recession starting salaries dropped to $27,000 compared to $30,000 before the recession hit.

And among those individuals that did find work in the survey,

only 44 percent reported their first job as having a very close relationship to their academic field of study, while 30 percent reported their job’s relationship was not very close or not at all related to their academic degree.

Likewise, just as many graduates reported their first job as simply “just a job to get you by,” and 27 percent of them stuck with that job as a career.

While the outlook for graduating seniors is currently bleaker than in the past, there is some good news for new workers entering the job market.

According to a study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, a nonprofit organization based in Bethlehem, Pa. focusing on college career services, employers will hire 19 percent more college graduates this year than last.

It marks the first double-digit jump from a previous year since 2007. The difference between 2009 and 2010 was minimal.

Brianna Dinofrio, 22, a 2011 graduate of Slippery Rock University, was one of the recent grads who was able to enter the workforce right away.

“I started my first job in the field of mental health on the Monday right after graduation,” Dinofrio said. “I found out

about the company through the SRU summer internship fair, and it was honestly very easy to get.”

While easy to get it, the job wasn’t one that required the bachelor’s degree in psychology that Dinofrio had worked hard for.

“It was a direct care position, but it wasn’t one that required a bachelor’s degree,” Dinofrio said. “Still, I got valuable experience with individuals who can’t care for themselves due to physical and mental disabilities.”

Even though her first job wasn’t directly a result of her academic study, she feels it, paired with her degree, was what allowed her to enter her career field where she is now employed.

“I think that I was able to get my current position due to the experience I acquired there,” Dinofrio, who now works as a Milieu Therapist at the Western Psychiatric Institute & Clinic of UPMC in Pittsburgh, said.

The struggle for Slippery Rock University graduates entering the workforce varies from case to case.

In part two of this threepart series, The Rocket will examine how Slippery Rock University graduates have faired in recent years.

OPINION

The Rocket

A-6

October 7, 2011

The Rocket

Our View

Volume 94, Number 6 220 Eisenberg Classroom Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania 16057 Phone: (724) 738-4438 Fax: (724) 738-4896 E-mail: rocket.letters@sru.edu

Editorial Board Courtney Nickle

Editor-in-Chief Brian Brodeur

News Editor Andy Treese

Campus Life Editor Tim Durr

Sports Editor Lexi Kovski

Photo Editor Stephanie Martincsek

Copy Editor James Intile

Web Editor Stephanie Holsinger Assistant News Editor James Meyer Assistant Campus Life Editor Madeline Williams Assistant Sports Editor Liana Pittman

Assistant Photo Editor Will Deshong

News Reporter Mark Zeltner

Faculty Adviser

Advertising Staff Emily Hunter Advertising Manager

About Us The Rocket is published by the students of Slippery Rock University every Friday during the academic semester with the exception of holidays, exam periods and vacations. Total weekly circulation is 3,000.

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

The first copy of The Rocket is provided free of charge. Additional copies may be purchased for 50 cents each.

The Rocket receives approximately five percent of its funding from the SGA General Service fee paid each semester by students.

All other income is provided through the sale of advertising.

Advertising inquiries may be made by calling (724) 738-2643 or by e-mailing rocket.ads@sru.edu.

Corrections If we make a substantial error, we want to correct it. If you believe an error has been made, call The Rocket newsroom at (724) 738-4438. If a correction is warranted it will be printed in the opinion section.

Subscriptions

Subscriptions to The Rocket are available.

Subscriptions are $20 per academic semester and $35 for the full academic year.

Inquiries should be directed to the Editorin-Chief at the address listed here.

GRAPHIC BY LIANA PITTMAN

Law violations on campus need to be reported What would you say if I told you that the number of reported aggravated assaults, forcible sex offenses and drug law violations are on the rise on SRU’s campus?

You’d probably freak out, right?

We l l c a l m d o w n .

There can be several explanations for this rise in statistics, which were reported on this year’s annual security report provided by the Slippery Rock University Police Department (SRUPD).

First, let’s take a look at the numbers.

Aggravated assault has risen from one reported

incident in 2008, to two in 2009 and three in 2010.

Forcible sex offenses have risen from two in 2008, to three in 2009 to four in 2010, all of which were in the residence halls.

Drug law violations have made the most drastic jump from seven in 2008, to eight in 2009 and 19 in 2010.

Perhaps it’s not that m o r e i n c i d e nt s a r e occurring, just that more are being reported.

T h a t’s t h e s t a n c e SRUPD Chief Michael Simmons is taking.

Simmons believes t h at b e tt e r t r ai n i ng

of residence hall staff and CA’s (community assistants) led to the increase in reports of drug violations.

That could explain that statistic.

But what about forcible sex offenses?

According to Chief Simmons, only one of the four listed on the annual s e c u r it y re p or t w a s actually reported to the SRUPD. The other three instances were reported by the SRU Women’s Center, and the victims requested no further action be taken.

That’s a scary thought.

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

What if more incidents occurred, but no one reported them?

None of us want to think anything like this could happen in Slippery Rock, let alone on our own campus. But it does.

Now we need to decide what to do about it.

Since the forcible sex offenses were reported, Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) training has been offered by the SRUPD. That’s great, we’re very happy to hear about that.

You should be able to defend yourself in case you’re ever in a situation that warrants it.

We don’t live in a

fantasy world. We know bad things happen, even at SRU. But here’s the thing you have to remember: If something bad happens, you need to report it.

That’s the moral of these statistics, and the moral of this editorial.

Things will only get worse unless the problem is brought to light.

No solution can be found if no one knows the problem exists.

So, tell someone.

Call the police, call the counseling center, call a professor or call your best friend.

Just tell someone.

This week’s question: What would you do if you saw an assault happening on campus?

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 Fall 2010 Editorial Board and is written by Rocket editorial board members. It reflects the majority opinion of The Rocket Editorial Board.

“Our View” does not necessarily reflect the views of Slippery Rock University, its employees or its student body. Columns and cartoons are drafted by various individuals and only reflect the opinions of the columnists.

Letters Policy The Rocket welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns, but does not guarantee their publication.

The Rocket retains the right to edit or reject any material submitted. Submitted material becomes the property of The Rocket and cannot be returned. Anonymous submissions will not be published.

Those who submit letters must identify themselves by name, year in school, major and/or group affiliation, if any. Please limit letters to a maximum of 400 words.

Submit all material by noon Wednesday to: The Rocket, 220 ECB, Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pa. 16057. Or send it via e-mail to: rocket.letters@sru.edu.

Mike McConnell Senior criminology major Hometown: Butler, Pa.

Amber Owen Junior social work major Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.

“I would intervene, then call the cops because it’s the right thing to do. What else is there?”

“I would not intevene because it’s not safe. I would get as far away as I could and call the cops and tell them that it’s an emergency.”

Tyler Butler Senior emerging tech major Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.

“I would intervene because that is the quickest way, especially if it’s a girl. It would be better for me to get hurt rather than a girl.”

Opinion

October 7, 2011

A-7

Drunk driving isn’t a joking matter

Courtney Nickle Editor commentary You can hear some pretty strange things when you’re sitting in class, just before it starts, and everyone is having a conversation with someone else.

The girls behind you are gossiping about some guy, the group in the front of the room is already stressing over the next test, and the three guys to your left are reenacting the big game.

A few days ago, I found myself in this scenario.

But one conversation was different.

Sitting right in front of me was a girl and a guy talking about partying, drinking and driving.

Now let me preface this by saying, I don’t party.

I know, I’m weird. But that’s not the point. Let’s get back to the guy and girl discussing drunk driving.

The two started off talking about

their plans for this weekend, and then migrated to telling stories from past parties.

And then, this is my favorite part, they started comparing stories to see who had been the most “messed up.”

Most of the stories they told, each trying to one-up the other, involved drunk driving.

Well let me share something with those two, and everyone else for that matter: Nothing about driving drunk is cool, and it definitely isn’t funny.

I know we all think we’re invincible.

Nothing bad will ever happen to me.

Well bad things do happen. And no one is indestructible.

Did you know that one in three people will be involved in an alcoholrelated crash in their lifetime?

Did you know that the average drunk driver has driven drunk 87 times before his or her first arrest?

Did you know that 406 DUI fatalities occurred in Pennsylvania in 2009? That’s 32 percent of the total traffic deaths in Pa. in 2009.

Did you know that over the five years before that, there were 2,423 DUI fatalities in Pa.?

All of the above statistics came from MADD.org (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), a pretty reliable source.

Do you want to be one of their statistics?

I don’t. But I drive around this town, too. So do other students, professors and minivans full of families. A drunk driver could make us a statistic with one stupid, splitsecond decision.

I’m not saying you shouldn’t go out and party. Do what you have to do.

Have fun.

But please be responsible. Have a designated driver. If you don’t, or if they leave you, call someone else.

Walk home. Sleep at whatever house or apartment you happen to be in.

I don’t care what you do with your free time, until it can endanger innocent people.

With Homecoming just around the corner, please think before you act.

If you’ve been drinking, do whatever you have to do to keep yourself from sitting in the driver’s seat and turning the key.

And please don’t sit in class bragging about your adventures in drunk driving. You should be ashamed of those stories, not proud of them.

Just because you were lucky before, doesn’t mean you won’t be the cause of a statistic next time.

Courtney Nickle is a junior journalism major from Butler and Editor in Chief for The Rocket.

GOP candidates leave much to be desired

Spencer Cadden Silent Majority I a m a re g i s t e re d independent because I refuse to declare allegiance to political parties. It really is a very simple notion, I vote for the person, not the party. Some of my more liberal friends have already started supporting the Obama campaign, and while I have yet to declare my allegiance to a candidate, I have to say my choices on the Republican side are not ve r y appealing.

To be completely frank, the GOP has not produced a candidate that I c an just if y voting for. Their front-runners right now have made fools of themselves in a whole variety of hilarious ways.

They have said and done c ompl e tely r i d i c u l ous things and show no signs of letting up.

If you are currently unaware of the Republican front-runners, we have a line-up that includes Rick Perry, Mitt Romney and Michele Bachmann. Each and every one of them, I am sure, is a fine individual, but they are not future leaders of this country for unique reasons.

Here is the run-down of Obama’s competition.

First, Michele Bachmann is a Republican state representative from Minnesota who has enjoyed an immense amount of Palin-esque support in her state. I fear that her support would not be nearly as

strong if they would listen to what she says.

Her mouth is a fountain which spits a stream of endless nonsense. She has said some of the most ludicrous things that I have ever heard.

Two years ago, she s u g ge s t e d t h at s om e expansions to the A m e r i C or p s pro g r am i n c l u d e d “p r o v i s i o n s for what I would call reeducation camps for young people, where young people have to go and get trained in a philosophy that the government puts forward.”

Mo r e r e c e nt l y s h e sug gested t hat Glenn

Beck could solve the debt crisis, that carbon dioxide was harmless, that going to Iraq was like going to the Mall of America and that the Lion King was gay propaganda. I do not think MSNBC could make this up if they tried.

Furthermore, her campaign website offers not a single solution to any problems facing this country. Instead, it’s filled with grade school drivel that amounts to nothing more than a lump of political buzz words. Who’s next?

Second, Rick Perry is the current governor of Texas.

He really doesn’t seem like a bad guy. He comes off as a regular Joe, a guy you can trust, but I cannot vote for him. Thankfully, though, I will not be voting for Perry because of his stand on

a personal choice, just like his Massachusetts c o n s t i t u e n c y.

Then in 2008, when he was running for president, on a Republican ballot, he was and, suddenly, had always been pro-life.

Despite being a favorite amongst conservatives, he recently said he supported demand side economics, which is the exact same economic platform that President Obama runs under.

In 1994, when he was running in Massachusetts (a state that supports gay marriage), he was an avid supporter of gay rights. Just this past month, he signed a pledge vowing to protect the traditional marriage between a man and a woman.

So, I am sorry, but I have no idea where this man stands and he is forcing me to believe that he sides with whoever his constituents are.

At least I know who Perry and Bachmann are.

ILLUSTRATION COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS R i g h t n o w, thes e are the now. He owns a hunting best the Republican Party camp which is named after has to offer. There is a a racial slur. He may not candidate who cannot recover from that mess, seem to choose the right so maybe the GOP has words ever, there is a man someone in the wings, a who is so very conservative fresh new candidate who that some Republicans will re-energize the party. fear his economic policy, Finally, Mitt Romney and there is a candidate was t he gover nor of that might be a closet M a s s a c h u s e t t s u n t i l democrat.

2007, from which point I want the Republican he has been a permanent Party to have a contender. presidential nominee and I want the 2012 election to a staple of loser-hood. be a battle royale. I want My problem is not that someone that is worth Mitt Romney says silly voting for to come out of things like Bachmann, nor the GOP. Change, yes we is a hyper-conservative like can!

Perry. Mitt Romney, for I want to vote for the lack of a better word, is a candidate, not the party, phony. but if these are the best He has changed his the Republican Party can stance on political issues come up with, I am voting more often than Glenn Obama again.

Beck cries.

In 2002, he was pro- Spencer Cadden is a senior choice, calling abortion history major from Erie, Pa. issues, not ludicrous things he says, I hope.

Perr y firmly believes that the religious theory of i nte l l i ge nt d e s i g n should be taught in public schools, despite the Supreme Court already having ruled that it would be unconstitutional. He also believes that scientists have manipulated data to fabricate global warming and that his renting a $1 million-a-year house on state money is perfectly acceptable while the Texas governor’s mansion was being rebuilt.

There is one other mess that is plaguing Perry right

GRAPHIC BY LIANA PITTMAN

General admission tickets for concerts should be regulated

Emily Hunter Commentary First, I would like to congratulate the University Program B oard (UPB) on selling out this year’s homecoming concert. This was the first homecoming concert to sell out during my four years at SRU. Selling over 1,200 tickets can be a difficult task with the small population of Slipper y Rock and the surrounding area, even when the concert tickets are heavily subsidized by the student general service fee.

As a graduate student this semester, I paid $196.56 for the general service fee.

However, I was unable to buy a ticket due to the sellout.

I was not overly excited to see Sean Kingston, but reduced price tickets are hard to pass up.

My question is, should non-students who do not pay almost $400 a year in a general service fee have the opportunity to buy reduced tickets at only $10? Ten dollars is a steal for the general public, who would have to pay $58.75 for Sean Kingston’s next concert November 26 at the IP Casino Resort in Mississippi.

I feel the process is flawed and not putting the students of SRU first with only a $5 increase for nonSRU students.

However, this is not the first time non-SRU students had the opportunity to buy reduced price tickets that sold out quickly.

This same process was used with the Wiz Khalifa

concert last semester.

Non-SRU students were able to buy cheap tickets for only $10 more than students. In order to protect the best interest of the students who pay to have concerts at SRU, I would suggest having a delayed release of general admission tickets.

After a week of ticket sales, UPB would have a better understanding of the popularity of the concert and would then be able to release general admission tickets only if needed.

This practice was seen with the Maya Anglo lecture, and made sure student money is being spent wisely.

At Penn State University, the regular tickets are 250 percent more than the student tickets. For a Jeff Dunham performance, general admission tickets cost $50 while students tickets are reduced to only $20.

I would like to praise the university advancement office, who puts out the annual SRU Performing Arts Series, for placing high priority on SRU students even when they are not directly funded from my general service fee.

The regular admission s e a s on p a s s for t h e performing arts series is 271 percent more than reduced student tickets.

Students need to be an advocate for proper management of t heir student fees. We need to make sure that the Student Government Association and UPB know how SRU students want their money to be used. Be sure to contact a representative from SGA with a simple email and together we can push for better policies for SRU students.

Emily Hunter is a graduate student majoring in adaptive physical activity and advertising manager for The Rocket.

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October 7, 2011

MoreOn TV

By Jay Schiller and Greg Cravens

Blundergrads

Life in Hell

By Matt Groening

By Phil Flickinger

That Monkey Tune

Welcome to Falling Rock National Park

To d a y ' s Birthday (10/07/11). Your magnetic attraction is increasing. Take advantage of this situation.

You can really pull forward to accomplish goals and projects that seemed stuck before. Try a slightly different path to sidestep obstacles. The door is wide open.

To get the advantage, check the day's rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Surround yourself with supportive friends. Listen and provide comfort and resources in return. Avoid charging ahead without checking the blueprint first. Ask your family for counsel.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is an 8 -Communications improve greatly and so does your attitude. You find excellent inspiration in a partner and friends. Take the next step with confidence.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) -- Today is an 8 -- As you care for your investments, watering

the seeds that you planted, you may have to make a difficult decision that ultimately results in future growth.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) -- Today is a 6 -- You're both your best and worst critic today. Take your diatribes with a grain of salt, and pay attention to any brilliant ideas.

Let others moderate. Make decisions later.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -Today is an 8 -- Everything's possible today, especially if you can work as a team. Take advantage of new openings in the interaction channels.

Do what seems right. Share the glory.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Draw a new door on the wall with a piece of chalk. Make your own opportunities. Dare to imagine invisible possibilities.

Bring the chalk along. You never know when you'll need it.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Follow the rules to keep things in order.

The impossible is beginning to look manageable ... even easy. Your friends are there to help. Take a class or seminar to increase skill.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

By Michael A. Kandalafti

Horoscopes

Tribune Media Services (MCT)

By Josh Shalek

Sudoku

By Nancy Black

-- Today is an 8 -- Find strength with structure. You could take on a home improvement or decoration project. Get in communication with a distant friend for advice. Use your connections.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Consider a simple, direct (yet creative) solution, rather than the more convoluted way. Stay calm to save money. Your spiritual practices clear your mind.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 9 -- Your typical persistent efficiency serves you well today. Call for reinforcements, if needed.

An investment in your home could work. Draw the blueprints, and line up financing.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 9 -- Work may require some travel. See if you can squeeze in some fun, too. Follow an educated hunch, and collaborate with a colleague who has the knowledge you lack.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Persistent action can open new doors.

Try to guess the magic words, and send them out. Follow your intuition (and a map).

Trust your heart.

Solution

By Michael Mepham

October 7, 2011

A-11

A-12

October 7, 2011

SPORTS

The Rocket

B-1

October 7, 2011

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Senior wide receiver Kevin Sanders stiff-arms a Clarion University of Pennsylvania defender as he looks to get into the end zone Saturday night in the Green and White's 27-13 victory over the Golden Eagles.

Sanders has 13 receptions for 132 yards on the season and had a career-high seven receptions on Saturday night against Clarion.

Rock soars past Clarion

By D.J. Vasil

Rocket Contributor

Slippery Rock University’s offense was lead by a strong passing attack in a 27-13 victory over Clarion University of Pennsylvania.

Senior quarterback Cody Endres was 27 for 35 while throwing for a seasonhigh 305 yards and three touchdowns.

“I felt good tonight,” Endres said. “As the game progressed, I felt good rhythm-wise and we had a good two-minute drive at the end of the first half.”

Head coach George Mihalik continues to see improvement in Endres’ game.

“He had great poise tonight,” Mihalik said. “He made some great reads and some of the completions were his second and third reads. He has confidence in any of our receivers.”

Senior receiver Devin

Goda again was Endres’ favorite target as Goda recorded his third straight game of over 100 yards.

“I’m continuing to build confidence,” Goda said.

“There is still more room for improvement.”

Junior tight end Josh Gardner caught the other two touchdowns from Endres.

The Rock offense continues to perform at a high level as they registered 453 yards of total offense and held the ball for 40:53, as opposed to 19:53 by Clarion.

“Forty minutes is a great time of possession,” Mihalik said. “With that said, holding the ball for 40 minutes, we should have scored more points.”

The Rock offensive line for the second straight week gave up no sacks while paving the way up front for 148 rushing yards.

“The offensive line did great,” Mihalik said. “They

created enough holes on the ground and did a great job in pass protection.

We thought ‘why not take what’s there,’ so that’s why we passed a lot tonight.”

The running game was lead by sophomore Jimmy Zubik who gained 84 yards on 13 carries. Akeem Satterfield also chipped in 64 yards on 17 carries and was limited due to a leg injury.

“Akeem was a kickoff decision,” Mihalik said.

“He aggravated a leg injury and we didn’t know if he could go, that’s why we rotated throughout the game.”

The Rock defense came into the game ranked No. 2 in Division-II in total defense and held the Golden Eagles to a mere 199 yards, 62 rushing and 137 passing. ” The defense played fantastic on all three levels,” Mihalik said. “When you look at the score you think

the defense gave up points when they didn’t.

Clarion scored on a blocked punt and an interception return. I’m confident our defense can go out there and make a stop and get the ball back to the offense.”

The Green and White d e f e n s e w a s l e d by junior defensive end Jeff Thompson who registered 11 tackles and also had one kickoff return for 32 yards.

“I try to be a ball hawk,” Thompson said. “I’m a playmaker and I try to get the team motivated with talking and my play.”

Special teams was also a factor as junior kicking specialist Kurt Brackman booted two field goals from 28 yards and 30 yards to contribute to the Rock scoring.

Slippery Rock (4-1, 2-0) goes on the road to face No. 25-ranked Edinboro Universit y (4-1, 1-1) Saturday at 2 p.m.

Game Summary 2nd Quarter: 3rd Quarter:

C l a r i o n : ( 1 3 : 5 9 ) Slippery Rock:(5:06)

Touchdown, 100-yard Touchdown, 9-yard reinterception return by ception by Josh GardAnthony Stimac, PAT ner from Cody Endres, failed

PAT good

Slippery Rock:(5:44) Field Goal by Kurt Brackman, 28 yards

4th Quarter: Clarion:(9:48)

Touchdown, 34-yard punt block returned Slippery Rock:(1:16) by Mike Deitrick, PAT Touchdown, 32-yard regood ception by Devin Goda from Cody Endres, PAT Slippery Rock:(5:05) good Touchdown, 2-yard re-

ception by Josh Gard-

Slippery Rock:(0:02) ner from Cody Endres, Field Goal by Kurt PAT good.

Brackman, 30 yards

Sports

B-2

Senior wide receiver looks to finish final season strong

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Senior wide receiver Devin Goda celebrates in the end zone after scoring one of his two touchdowns this season. Goda is looking to get another touchdown to tie his career total of three.

By D.J. Vasil

Rocket Contributor

Senior wide receiver Devin Goda has 34

receptions for 430 yards and two touchdowns this season through only five games.

He is 160 yards away from having his best collegiate

season in receiving, and is two touchdowns away from having his most touchdowns in a season.

Last season was Goda's best season to date where he finished with 590 receving yards and three touchdowns and Goda has improved each season that he has played at SRU. Goda had a career high in receptions this season with 11 receptions against West Chester University of Pe n ns y lv an i a and career for yards against Clarion University of Pennsylvania with 108 receiving yards.

He st ar te d pl ay i ng football in the seventh grade and continued playing up through high school where he attended Elizabeth Forward High School.

At Elizabeth Forward, he earned first team allconference in his junior and senior seasons at receiver, and also played in the Dynamic-33 game in his junior year and was named the most valuable player in the game.

He was also an honor student all four years of high school and a “Who’s Who” among American High School Students all four years.

His plans after college are to do something in his major field of study.

“Having a career in safety is something I would like to do,” Goda said.

He has b een a big contributing factor to the Rock’s success this year and thinks this year has been a good season for him to this point and hopes to continue his success.

“I feel like the season is going great so far,” Goda said. “Our team chemistry and skill level is very good, and I feel very good about my personal performances and confidence level thus far.”

“My biggest moment in football, so far, would have to be when I scored a 74yard touchdown last year against Marrimack to open up the 2010-2011 season,” Goda said.

A close second would be the win against IUP, this was a great accomplishment for our team and I was able to contribute with a touchdown.”

On the football field, Goda appears as a sixfoot three-inch giant, who covers the field and makes catches all over the field, and he actually is somewhat of a country boy.

One thing most people don’t know about Goda is that he lives on a farm and raises sheep and that one of his favorite hobbies is taking care of animals and tending to the farm.

October 7, 2011

ROCK RESULTS Women's Volleyball • The Green and White volleyball team won its 16th game of the season on Friday against Edinboro University, 3-1. After dropping the first set 22-25, it won the next three by scores of 25-23, 25-21, and 32-30. Its next matches are today in a tournament at Millersville University of Pennsylvania at 2 p.m.

Women's Soccer • Rock women's soccer has won four straight games by way of shutouts and improved its record to 7-3-2.

Its next match will be against California University of Pennsylvania tomorrow at 2 p.m. at Egli Soccer Field.

Men's Soccer • After losing three straight, men's soccer rebounded against Seton Hill University with a 3-1 victory and will face Urbana University (Ohio) tomorrow at 3 p.m.

Field Hockey • Field Hockey is 3-10 on the season and lost its third match in a row to Indiana University of Pennsylvania. They face Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.

Football • After a 27-13 victory over Clarion University of Pennsylvania, SRU football will face No. 25 ranked Edinboro University.

Cross Country • Men's and women's cross country prepares for the SRU Invitational tomorrow at Cooper's Lake Campground and look to build off of its second place finishes at the Lock Haven Invite.

Women's Tennis • With a 2-0 record, women's tennis will resume fall play tomorrow against East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania and Bloomsburg University.

Sports

October 7, 2011

B-3

Women's soccer records four straight shutouts

PHOTO COURTESTY OF SPORTS INFORMATION

Freshman Lucy Hannon dribbles the ball past a Seton Hill University defender on Sept. 3. Hannon is leading the team in goals with seven for the season. She has scored three consecutive game-winning goals against Bloomsburg University, East Stroudsburg University, and, most recently, against Edinboro University.

By Madeline Williams record to 7-3-2 overall and Assistant Sports Editor

The Slippery Rock women's soccer team knocked off another Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference school Wednesday night as they cruised to a 1-0 shutout over Edinboro University.

This win marks the fourth consecutive shutout for the Rock, as they improved their

5-2-2 in the PSAC. Leading the team, was freshman Lucy Hannon, who scored the game-winning goal in the 42nd minute off an assist from junior Shelby Ward.

This goal served as the third consecutive game winner for Hannon, who also notched goals against Bloomsburg and East Stroudsburg this past weekend.

The Fighting Scots offense was kept to only two shots on goal throughout the course of the game.

The Rock had a 9-8 advantage in total shots, posted a 7-2 advantage in shots on goal, but Edinboro held a 6-0 edge in corner kicks.

Senior Lisa Rodgers took the win for The Rock, getting her fifth shutout of the season.

Hannon had three shots on

goal, and Ward tallied two shots, additionally.

Last Saturday, the Rock captured another win when they handed East Stroudsburg University a 4-0 defeat in PSAC action.

Hannon and sophomore Kara Mullins led the Rock’s offense by scoring two goals a piece.

The Green and White held a 14-5 advantage in total shots, 12-4 advantage in shots

on goal and a 4-2 advantage in corner kicks.

Rodgers earned the shutout, stopping four shots on goal.

Hannon's first goal of the game happened in the 12th minute when she quickly dribbled through the Warrior's defense and took a shot in the upper corner of the goal.

The second goal of the game came from Mullins when she

connected with junior Erin Storck in the middle of the first half.

In the 58th minute of the game, Mullins scored another goal off a pass from Ward.

Hannon scored the final goal of the game in the 70th minute off another assist from Ward.

On Friday afternoon, the Rock got off to a great weekend as they beat Bloomsburg University 2-0 in another PSAC victory.

This game marked the 200th career win for head coach Noreen Herlihy.

Slippery Rock finished the game with a 16-3 advantage in total shots, a 12-1 advantage in shots on goal, and they held a 5-3 advantage in corner kicks.

Hannon scored the opening goal of the game during the 31st minute off an assist from sophomore Stephanie Buckenheimer.

Buckenheimer put the ball over the keeper when she headed a long pass from Ward, with only ten minutes left in play.

Rodgers earned another shutout for the Rock, recording one save in goal.

Buckenheimer thinks the games this past week were exactly what the team needed.

"This week marked the beginning of the rest of our season." Buckenheimer said.

"Winning these games gave us our confidence back and put us back on the right track to a great season."

The Rock hopes to continue their streak as they host Clarion University at 2 p.m. on Saturday in another PSAC battle.

Sports

B-4

October 7, 2011

Green and White defense best in Division II football

By D.J. Vasil

Rocket Contributor

The R o c k ’s next Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference test will come on the road Saturday against No. 25 ranked Edinboro University.

Despite being shut out last week by Indiana University of Pennsylvania, head coach George Mihalik is not overlooking Edinboro.

“Edinboro is strong from top to bottom,” Mihalik said. “They are strong in all three phases of the game, defensive line, linebackers and secondary. They are deserving of a national ranking. It’s going be a tough game.”

The Rock, coming into this week, has the number one ranked defense in Division II football.

A big reason for the Green and White’s success on defense and number one ranking has been senior linebacker Zach Sheridan.

“It feels good to be the best in the nation,” Sheridan said. “We deserve it. We have put in a lot of work over the off season and throughout the season till this point. And, it’s not just the team, it’s the coaches, as well, that deserve this.”

Sheridan will be key in stopping the Edinboro rushing attack as they average more yards r u s h i ng , 1 6 8 . 2 , t h an passing, 152.

“We have done a great job on against the run this year,” Sheridan said.

“I feel like we can hold them under 100 yards this week.”

The Rock defense will have to contend with a nu mb e r of E dinb oro playmakers in quarterback C ody Harris, and Edinboro’s leading rusher, Drew Herrell.

“Offensively, what is impressive is that they have receivers who are pl ay m a ke rs ,” Mi h a l i k said. “They stretch the field with speed and are quick enough to run the underneath routes. Herrell is a running back that gains yard after contact and runs hard. Harris can hurt you on the pass and the run.”

The Rock offense was very successful last week and as a result, senior quarterback Cody Endres was named the PSAC West Co-offensive player of the week. This was Endre’s first award of the year.

“It’s a big honor, but I’m just taking awards like that as they come,” Endres said.

“Most important is that we got the win last week and hopefully we will keep performing like we did last week.”

Endres will need to play at a high level this week as he leads the offense against Edinboro’s No. 4 ranked defense in Division II. “Edinboro does a great job of disguising their looks and have good athletes in the secondary and linebacking core,” Endres said.

“Their defensive line also has good athletes like Keir

ALEX MOWREY /THE ROCKET

Sophomore running back Jimmy Zubik fights through tackles against Clarion University of Pennsylvania Saturday night as he split carries with injured redshirt junior running back Akeem Satterfield.

Jeter.”

Mihalik believes Edinboro is a lot like Slippery Rock in terms of defense.

“Defensively, I compare them to us,” Mihalik said. “The comparison begins with how well they play on all three levels of defense. They have a

strong defensive line, and an impressive group of linebackers and secondary.

T he y are a pre ssu re defense, they bring it with linebackers. It will be key for our offensive line to study film and try to anticipate the different blitz packages the y’ ll bring.”

E d i n b o r o’s d e f e n s e is led by defensive end Keir Jeter and linebacker Ryan Skelton, both have registered 4.5 sacks on the year.

“Jeter is a very athletic defensive end and does a g re at j o b r u s h i ng t h e p a s s e r,” M i h a l i k said. “Skelton is a good

linebacker who blitzes a lot and disrupts the passing game.”

S l ipp e r y R o c k w i l l host conference rival No. 15 ranked California University of Pennsylvania (5-0, 2-0) at MihalikThompson Stadium for Homecoming on October 15.

Sports

October 7, 2011

B-5

Women's soccer coach Soccer ends losing streak wins 200th game at SRU

By Kristin Karam Rocket Contributor

By Madeline Williams

Assistant Sports Editor

Slippery Rock University women’s soccer coach Noreen Herlihy recorded her 200th career win in their 2-0 win over Bloomsburg University on Sept. 30.

Herlihy was named head coach of the women’s soccer team back in 1995, and is currently in the middle of her 17th season at the Rock.

“I am very proud to be a part of this program,” Herlihy said. “We have a tradition of success here, and as long as I see that hunger in the girls to succeed, I’m going to keep driving to see my athletes excel.”

Since 1996, Herlihy has led her squad to 15 consecutive winning seasons. That season, she received the honor of Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference “coach of the year.”

In 1997, SRU asked Herlihy to accept the challenging job as head coach of the men’s program as well.

“It was a transition period for the team,” Herlihy said.

“They asked me to rebuild the men’s program and help get it back on track.”

She served as dual-team coach for four seasons, and in 2001, she focused her attention back to the women’s team.

Since 2001, the women’s soccer team has averaged 13.2 wins in each season.

They’ve made seven PSAC playoff appearances.

The team also has made it to the NCAA tournament six times, captured three PSAC season titles and two PSAC tournament championships.

The women’s soccer team earned their first trip to the NCAA regional tournament in 2001 and was the beginning of successful things to come for Herlihy.

The Rock won the opening round of the tournament, and earned a spot in the regional final in their first trip to the national playoffs.

In 2003, SRU captured the PSAC regular season and playoff championships, as well as earning a second trip to the NCAA postseason.

Herlihy received her second PSAC “coach of the year” honor during this season. She was also named as the NSCAA regional “coach of the year.”

In 2007, the women’s soccer team won a school record of 17 games, winning the third PSAC season title and making it to the NCAA regional playoffs for the second season in a row.

They reached the NCAA championships for the third consecutive season the following year.

The 2010 season was one to remember as the Rock made it to the semifinals of the PSAC tournament and earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

SRU defe ated West Virginia Wesleyan in the first round of the NCAA tourney before losing in the second round to California

University on penalty kicks.

This season was another record-breaker for the ladies as they had a 15-game unbeaten streak.

In her time at SRU, Herlihy has coached four players who have earned NCAA all-American recognition, a pair of first-team selections, 19 all-region players, a twotime PSAC “athlete of the year” and 34 student athletes earning all-PSAC acclaim.

Herlihy doesn’t take the credit of 200 wins for herself.

“This is by no means a solo effort,” Herlihy said. “I couldn’t have done it alone.

It’s a combination of work from everyone, my fantastic assistant coaches, and of course, the young women on the team. 200 wins is a great accomplishment, but it all comes from the excellent players who have played here at SRU.” After winning Wednesday's game against E d i n b oro Un i v e r s it y, Herlihy now has 202 career wins at SRU. Junior Marissa Anderson appreciates all that Herlihy has done for her and her teammates.

"We're lucky to have a coach that cares as much about us off the field as on," Anderson said. "She is stern with us when we need a kick, but she is comforting on a bad day when we need the confidence. I speak for myself and the rest of my teammates when I say we couldn't ask for a better coach."

Last weekend, the Slippery Rock University men’s soccer team was hoping to get some momentum back with two PSAC wins at home. They, unfortunately, suffered losses to both the Bloomsburg University Huskies and the East Stroudsburg University Warriors, dropping their record to 3-5-0 for the season.

The three-game losing streak was broken on Wednesday when the Rock defeated the Seton Hill Griffins 3-1, improving their record to 4-50. The win also brought back some confidence to the team.

“The game showed that we are able to create chances and put teams away late in games,” said junior goalkeeper Clayton Master. “One thing good teams do is they never take their foot off the throttle.

Once they gain a lead, they don’t shift to cruise control.

They constantly impose their will on the opponent.

Wednesday’s win showed us the formula for success, now we have to execute that formula for every game here on out.”

Neither team was able to score a goal during the first half of the game, but senior forward Kenneth Fultz gave the Rock a 1-0 advantage at the 55:13 mark during the second half. Seton Hill’s Bovey Masioli tied the game up just over a minute later.

One of the elements in the game the team has been struggling with this year has been staying focused and consistent throughout the entire game.

ALEX MOWREY/ THE ROCKET

Sophomore midfielder Zach Hall fights for a header against West Chester University on Sept. 10.

“Tactically, we were ready for Seton Hill,” said junior defender Drew Donoghue.

“The game was tough, but we battled and continued to play hard. We were able to break down their defensive line, which led to the 2nd and 3rd goal.”

The game-winning goal is credited to freshman forward Stephen Donnelly. The insurance goal was made by another freshman forward, Oladele Olaewe. The goals were the first of Donnelly’s and Olaewe’s collegiate careers.

Junior defender Christian

McChesney is confident in the team’s ability to continue improving their talent and record when they hit the road for two more games this weekend.

“We need to win out this weekend to gain some momentum on the road,” McChesney said. “Judging by how we did against Millersville’s cancelled game, I’m expecting to come home with two more wins.”

The Green and White will head to Urbana University of Ohio (5-5-0) for a match tomorrow.

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October 7, 2011

The Rocket

CAMPUS LIFE C-1 October 7, 2011

Annual Folk and Jam Festival brings traffic to Rock Falls Park

By James Meyer

Assistant Campus Life Editor

A light, misty rain made for a cold and muddy Saturday afternoon for the Folk & Jam Fest 2011 at Rock Falls Park. Attendees gathered around a large bonfire to keep warm, some stayed under the cover of canopy tents, but the bands played on, in spite of the weather.

The fest hosted seven bands and also included glassblowing demonstrations, a merchandise vendor, and a concession stand selling food and soda. Alcohol was B.Y.O.B. Bill Smith, SRU alumni and drummer for Yellow Lady Slipper, sat near a small space heater, keeping warm as he helped check people in at the gate. Smith said that the weather seemed to contribute to a smaller crowd.

“Normally there’s a line of cars all the way up the hill,” Smith said. “This is just one of those days, you know, bad weather.”

Despite the cold, the musicians and attendees remained in good spirits.

As Chris Vipond and the Stanley Street Band finished their first song, guitarist Phil Wagner requested beer to be brought to the stage.

After Wagner’s request was honored with two cans of Yuengling from an audience member, Wagner expressed his appreciation.

“You could have brought me anything and I’d have drank it,” Wagner said to the audience member.

“It could’ve been Pabst Blue Ribbon, it could’ve been Old Milwaukee, but you brought me Yuengling.”

Randy Servello, drummer for Chris Vipond and the Stanley Street band, from Altoona, said that he prefers playing outdoor festivals to bar venues.

“We’ve been doing festivals all summer,” Servello said. “It’s a cool thing because you come out and these people are real music lovers.

It’s not like going to a bar and playing for a bunch of drunk people who just, you know, look for a hook-up for the night or whatever. These people are

really into the music. It’s just one of those kinds of environments where everybody’s just very friendly.”

Servello said that these are the kinds of venues at which he looks forward to playing.

“You know when you’re driving here that you’re going to have a good time because the people are going to be cool to talk to,” Servello said. “It’s a safe environment. It’s kid friendly, it’s family friendly.”

While relaxing backstage after the band’s performance, Chris Vipond shared his thoughts about the Rock Falls crowd and the Slippery Rock area.

“It seems like a very friendly, musicloving crowd,” Vipond said. “It seems, at this end of the state, people are a lot more open-minded and willing to hear new things. Where we’re from, people typically want to know the song that they’re hearing, in any live situation. So we don’t really play too much in our own hometown.”

Vipond’s bassist, Mike Stanley, laughed in agreement.

“You know the joke where you play somewhere and there’s always some guy in the crowd yelling, ‘Play some Skynyrd,’” Stanley said. “Well, we’re from that place!”

As the afternoon turned into evening, the rain stopped, but the cold remained. Todd Heinsberg, owner of Rock Falls Park, performed through the rain with his folk rock band, Caboose.

After Caboose’s performance, the rain began to subside and Heinsberg joined audience members in enjoying a warm fire and concession food. He said that disagreeable weather has never affected his desire to host an outdoor event.

“I’m an outdoorsman so I don’t mind this kind of climate, but apparently everybody else does,” Heinsberg said with a shrug and a smile. “Regardless of weather, every time we do a show, I meet new friends, new contacts and keep building the community. This place had a bad reputation for those years that the park was ignored from, like, ‘75 on. It had a bad reputation for

MARTINA YENCHO/ the rocket

Mark Lane gives a solo performance at the Rock Falls Park Folk & Jam Fest, 2011. The Folk & Jam Fest was hosted on a cold and rainy day, but still managed to be a success as audience members used canopy tents, a large bonfire and dancing to stay warm.

being party central. So we tried to turn things around.”

Heinsberg said that he has several events planned in the weeks to follow and hopes that more college students will come and enjoy a safe and fun environment.

“Next weekend we have the harvest picnic,” Heinsberg said. “It’s free to

the public, potluck at 1 p.m., farmer’s market from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Just bring stuff. We’re donating all the organic hamburgers and hotdogs.

And we’re going to have three or four different kids’ activities.”

Heinsberg is also planning to host a concert for Slippery Rock’s Homecoming.

Local tailgating rooted as university tradition

By Stephanie Cheek Rocket Contributor

As the annual Home c om i ng g ame against California University of Pennsylvania draws near, this brings many families and alumni out to tailgate before the big game. Tailgating has been a classic tradition not only at SRU, but also throughout the nation.

SRU athletic director Paul Lueken said he sees tailgating as “a nice added feature to draw a crowd,” while head football coach George Mihalik said he “sees tailgating as an exciting game experience.”

Ta i l g a t i n g is connected with many sports like football, b a s e b a l l an d e ve n soccer, and can range from college teams to professional teams.

According to the Nat iona l Tai l g ate rs As s o c i at i on ( N TA ) w e b s i t e , t a i l g at i n g “is a delicate balance between fandom and celebration.”

What people don’t know is that the first tailgaters were not cheering on a sporting event, but the Civil War. They gathered with food and drinks to cheer on the Union soldiers at the Battle of Bull Run. The go-to chant for the bystanders was “Go Big Blue,” according to NTA’s website.

As time progressed a n d e a r l y Un i t e d States colleges were developed, it became connected with collegiate sports teams.

The earliest tailgating for sports was between Princeton and Rutgers in a rugby-style sports game in 1869.

The main tailgaters were the Rutgers’ fans w h o s h owe d t h e i r support by wearing t he color red and being there for the team to cheer them on, according to NTA’s website. “ H o w e v e r, w h a t arguably had the biggest effect on tailgating at this game,” according to the site, “was a group of Rutgers

“We’re going to do something for Homecoming,” Heinsberg said. “This year we have four bands. It starts at 3:00. And I also hired Campbell’s to shuttle people back and forth. We’re going to meet at Ginger Hill. It’s $10 at the gate for four bands. We do free camping. Next weekend, if anyone wants to camp, it’s all on me.”

Students anticipate future of teaching Children's books purchased to expand in-class libraries

By Chloe Finigan Rocket Contributor

likings, due to the overuse of alcohol and rambunctious behavior, according to Lueken.

Ta i l g a t i n g t h e n became frowned upon on campus until 2009.

When President Robert Smith came into office, they wanted to reinstate tailgating and

The education department held a book fair Monday to help elementary education students prepare for their future classrooms.

The dean of the college of education, Dr. Kathleen Strickland, talked about the importance of the book fair.

“Having the fair helps us to help students purchase books,” Strickland said. “It’s important to have books for a classroom.”

The book fair not only sells children’s books, but also teaching kits, book activity packets and professional material. The fair has been helping students for over 10 years.

Strickland said she has run the sale for many years as a faculty member.

That was 15 years ago, and the sale has been going strong since.

“We have a lot of success,” said Strickland. “Students and faculty enjoy it, and the literature is essential.”

The fair also contributes to more than students. The book sale’s earnings go towards the Center for Literature Around the World (CLAW), which is the effort of two conjoined groups, the Multi-Cultural Center and the Slippery Rock Literacy Center.

One of the reasons is that it gives students a chance to prepare for the

SEE SRU, PAGE C-5

SEE BOOK, PAGE C-4

EMILY ANTILL/THE ROCKET Tailgating at sports events has a long history. Coaches and athletes at SRU support this time-honored tradition of fans gathering to enjoy food and fun before each home game.

fans and players, who wore scarlet-colored scarves (converted into turbans), in order to be separate from the other fans.”

From that point on, tailgating has been an important tradition that goes hand in hand with football, including SRU football, according to Mihalik.

“[Tailgating] creates a festive attitude and the fans’ energy and excitement is a big plus on game day,” Mihalik said.

SRU tailgating has been involved with the campus for years until around the mid 1970’s when it got a little too wild for the administrations

Campus Life

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October 7, 2011

Five essential items every student at SRU should have for fall

Katie Ellis "ROCK'n Fashion" Heads up, Slipper y Rock students! It’s starting to get cold outside, so you must be prepared to face the weather in style.

Whether you’re walking to class or heading out to dinner with your friends, here are the top five essential items you must buy this fall.

The first item every Slippery Rock student must have is an umbrella. There is nothing worse than being caught in the rain, so always be sure to have one on hand when you go out.

Just because the weather is dark and gloomy, it doesn’t mean that the color of your umbrella has to be! Step out in style with a bright umbrella in a solid color, or one with a fun pattern.

All-weather brand name Totes has a variety of styles and colors available for every girl out there at reasonable prices. For the girl who likes animal prints, they offer three different patterns ranging from zebra to giraffe print from $18-$30. Flower power and bold colors are also prominent in their designs and can be bought in the price range of $20-$30.

Although this may seem like a steep price to pay for an umbrella, keep in mind that Totes offers a lifetime warranty on all of their products, and that makes buying their umbrellas a wise investment.

The next essential that every girl must have is a pair of rain boots, and no one knows footwear better than campus favorite, Sperry Top-Sider. Step out of your boat shoes and into a pair of their rain boots for guaranteed protection from the rain as you’re walking to class. You can purchase a pair for less than the cost of your boat shoes at around $70.

With a thick sole for added protection against the rain and a fleece-lined interior, you’ll be able to keep your feet warm and dry all throughout the fall season.

Check out the tall Pelican boots in pink and green plaid, or python for the most style for your buck.

Warm up on your way out the door in apparel from the North Face. The athletic brand offers a variety of different coats and accessories to choose from to keep you warm during the cold weather months.

A perfect jacket to wear now would be the Khumbu jacket in an array of colors ranging from garden pink to black, or the Venture jacket that can be found in a dozen different colors like acoustic blue and gravity purple.

The Khumbu and Venture jackets will cost you a respective $80 or $99 depending on the style that you choose.

As October transitions into November, the Greenland jacket is perfect for the impending snowy weather with its insulated design

and faux fur-lined hood. For around $249, you can purchase this jacket in either montague blue or brunette brown.

Now that you’ve got your jacket, don’t forget about the accessories!

Pick up the Denali glove for $25 and the Cable Fish beanie for $30 to complete your cold weather look.

It’s no secret that Vera Bradley is all the rage on campus, so if you don’t already have some of her designs in your wardrobe, now is the time to jump on the bandwagon. Pack up all of your books and your laptop in the laptop backpack or the messenger bag as you head out the door to class. Both of these bags will provide you with an ample amount of room for all of your belongings, and are between $75$99 for the laptop backpack or just $68 for the messenger bag.

When you’re headed out to dinner with your friends, make sure you pack up your student ID and credit cards in the popular all-in-one wristlet. Some of the most popular designs are Mocha Rouge, Buttercup and Viva la Vera. For the low price of $34, you’ll be ready to go out in style with your new wristlet.

Not only is a Vera Bradley bag a good investment, but it is also a smart investment. If you ever get your Vera dirty, it can be washed, so you don’t need to worry about replacing it if you ever spill something on it. If you’re eager to pick up a Vera Bradley bag, head over to the SGA Bookstore to check out their selection!

Last but not least, don’t forget to pick up some Slippery Rock

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

One of the five essential items for students to have at SRU is an umbrella. With various patterns available, you can walk in the rain with style.

apparel! While you’re at the bookstore picking up your Vera Bradley bag, check out the latest t-shirts and sweatpants.

The “Rock Hard” t-shirt is always a good choice to wear while walking around campus, and don’t forget the essential “The Rock” sweatshirts and sweatpants!

In addition to sporting the latest trends in school apparel, you’ll be

ready for green and white Fridays.

This fall, make sure to pick up these five essential items while you’re out shopping. Not only will you be prepared to face the cool temperatures, but you’ll be fashionable too.

Katie Ellis is a freshman journalism major and a regular contributor to The Rocket.

Campus Life

October 7, 2011

Ask Ana "Ana Graham"

Question: Dear Ana, How do you measure if someone is successful?????

Another Question Mark

Answer: Dear Question Mark, S ome may s ay t he answer is like the amount of question marks in a question, the more, the better. It is a personal opinion that ever yone measures on their own scale.

For example, I learned as a child that if I catch

all the Pokémon, I will be successful. I worked hard and became a Pokémon master, and that made me feel successful. So quantity is a common measurement.

Another way of measuring is by quality.

For example, if your wife is hotter than all your friends’ and coworkers’ wives, you may consider yourself successful. Or, if you’re a football player and you are in the AFL, you may consider yourself less successful than those in the NFL. Or, you could just be happy. But remember this, truly happy people don’t take stock in measuring success in themselves or others, they just enjoy life.

Question: Dear Ana, I recently just went through a break up after a 5-year relationship.

Everything is ok now. We

talk every day like nothing happened.

But that’s just the problem. Something did happen, and I still love him.

I want to still talk and hang out because he really is my best friend. But I feel like I need some way of getting over him, and I don’t know what to do.

Please help!

Just Friends

Answer: Dear Just Friends, I’m sympathetic to your heartache. I’ve never had a relationship that long so I don’t know if my advice will do your situation justice, but I will try.

I once heard that for every year a couple is together, it takes an extra month for them to move on. And to an extent, I believe there to be truth in this, it takes longer to heal the longer you were together.

It’s actually good that you talk a lot, because if you quit “cold turkey” after so long, you would feel much worse. But talking to him a lot can also frequently bring up old memories.

As soon as you feel comfortable with it, I would suggest gradually spending less time with him and more time with others.

He can be your best friend, but no one loves and talks to their best friend on the phone every day.

That transition will come soon enough, though, because he seems open to it.

Also, never ever find a reb ound! Howe ver, talk to guys. Build your confidence. Dress in a way that makes you feel good.

Do things you never t hou g ht ab out d oi ng because you thought your relationship held you back (nothing too crazy of course, Ask Ana does not endorse illegal activities) and you will find that your healing has helped you grow as a person.

You’re young, and these things happen when you’re young.

Years from now, the two of you can comfortably reminisce and be happy.

C-3

Question: Dear Ana, Is the new Student Union going to be a worthwhile investment that is crucial to the Slipper y Rock community’s betterment in various ways such as giving organizations and students more space for their activities, or is it just going to be $20-something million of money wasted to give us a Quaker Steak and a Starbucks?

Curious investor

Answer:

specifically the student union.

That means that everything is going to be in one central location, instead of everything being scattered in odd spots.

Don’t tell me you don’t find it annoying to run from the Fluh to Watson just to get a few tasks done.

This money was going to be spent anyways, so at least they are thinking about us by adding extras they know we will both love and spend money on. It’s a win-win.

And there was a survey of students done in 2005 that showed the majority approved the idea.

By the way, all this infor mat ion is e asi ly accessible on the school website.

So, while even I may complain that my book learnin’ cash is going to some behemoth that I may not experience much before I graduate, that place will be embraced (or at least tolerated) by students, like our current union is, soon enough.

Dear Curious Investor, There is more to the concept of the new student union than spark ling promises of wings and expensive coffee. There is also going to be a small waterfall. Don’t deny that you wouldn’t find that awesome.

But plans for the new union went off the ground all the way back in 2003.

Originally, in 2004, the new student union was to fulfill a state obligation that "Ana Graham" is a senior we don’t currently fulfill public relations major and - combining auxiliar y a regular contributor to The services into one place, Rocket.

Campus Life

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October 7, 2011

Book fair benefits charity Continued from Page C-1

professional world, one of the aspects that, according to Strickland, the education department prides itself on.

One student, senior elementary education major April Rombout, 21, thinks that the education program has provided necessary experience for the future.

“It’s a great program, a lot of hands on work with kids,” Rombout said. “I feel good about getting a job. It makes you feel comfortable in a classroom.”

One hands on experience that Rombout had was running the book fair this year.

Rombout was responsible for setting up and closing, as well as working at the sale.

“This is my first year,” Rombout said, but added she still sees the importance of the sale. “The opportunities are endless.”

Another student, Amanda Herman, secondary education history major, 21, does not feel so strongly about her ‘endless opportunities.’

“Since education funding is going down, it’s hard to see where I’ll get a job,” Herman said.

But, as Strickland explained, the consistent success of the fair shows

the persistence of educators and the educated.

This idea of hands on preparation is not only expressed with the book sale, but also with many other programs sponsored by the education department, including a math night held at the Slippery Rock Middle School.

Just like the education d e p a r t m e nt s p o n s o r s many events outside of the university, the book sale is also part of a bigger organization.

T h e S l ipp e r y R o ck L it e r a c y C e nt e r w a s founded in 1990 and merged with the Multi-Cultural Center a few years ago, opening many doors for the education department. The book sale also opens doors for students.

“When we hire students to work the sale, they get to know children’s literature,” Strickland said. “Our activities mirror what they would be doing in the real world.”

Rombout said the department has prepared her for finding a job, as she has found a job teaching in Mexico City next year, after she graduates.

By participating in the book fair, students get used to choosing books for their future classrooms, which is also a good resource during the first few years

of teaching, according to Strickland.

“Many students keep a box of these books in the back of their cars, just in case,” Strickland said Starting a personal and professional library can help students keep their feet on the ground when trying to find a job out of school, according to Strickland.

Many parents in the Child Care Center show up buying books for their children and supporting the department.

Faculty members are also known to buy a few books.

The range of the books is wide, as well. According to Rombout, they sell books for kindergarten to sixth grade, even including Spanish books. Buyers pay on an average from $4.99$17.99.

“It’s af ford able, it’s cheaper than Barnes and Noble,” said Rombout.

The book sale has shown to attract an audience, but it also highlights the importance of literature in schools. Both students and faculty throughout the education department agree.

Rombout said she already sees the importance of stocking up on children’s books.

“You can teach anything from a book,” she said. “[Children] can learn anything from reading.”

SRU Alumni Association Would like to Congratulate

Hollie Carlson Grace Evans Ben Brunetta Austin Hawk

Green and White Society members for being nominated to Homecoming Court. We are proud that your involvement and student leadership is being recognized!

The Alumni Association appreciates The Green and White Society’s contributions and enthusiasm! Go

Rock !!

October 7, 2011

Campus Life

SRU sets new tailgating rules, allows drinking Continued from Page C-1

try to continue the tradition at SRU once again. With the help of the chief of police and safety officers, a new policy was created to help tailgating become safer at the SRU campus.

According to Lueken, the rules were put into place to contain the alcohol consumption and make the fun more controllable.

Each parking spot that is used costs $5, tailgating is allowed three hours before kickoff and two hours post game, only beer and wine are acceptable alcoholic beverages in the parking lot, and no drinking “games” or sound system amplifiers are allowed at any time.

If all the rules are followed, Lueken said it is ensured that tailgating will be an enjoyable pastime for years to come.

Lueken said he believes that tailgaters should pack up in a timely manner, in order to make operations run more smoothly.

“Follow the rules, and clear out when

the band marches to the top of the hill and plays the fight song,” Lueken said.

Alumni are also encouraged to follow the rules so that tailgating can continue to be a favorite sports pastime for years to come.

Many SRU families like to tailgate for reasons other than just drinking alcohol, though.

“Tailgating allows spectators and fans to make a day out of the football game,” Mihalik said.

To do that, some families pack tents, tables full of food, a grill, and sometimes personalized SRU corn hole games to pass the time and show support for the team.

Some fans will be out in the parking lot rain or shine, usually beginning around 1:30 p.m. to get the festivities started.

When asked why tailgating is such an important tradition at SRU football games, Mihalik said tailgating is just a part of what people think of when they think about the sport.

“Tailgating is part of the college and game experience,” he said.

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October 7, 2011