The Rocket 11-22-2013

"Rock Jam" Exclusive The Slippery Rock men's and women's basketball teams are featured in this week's special section.

Page E-1

Friday, November 22, 2013 • Volume 97, Issue Number 11 • Slippery Rock University's Student Newspaper

the rocket

www.theonlinerocket.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

NEWS

Spotts Bridge Cost Determined The cost to rebuild the bridge outside of Spotts was estimated at $150,000. Find out what happened to the old bridge.

Page A-3

OPINION

Gender Neutral Bathrooms at SRU The Rocket staff has some opposing views on the installation of these facilities at SRU. See opinion for more.

Page B-1

SPORTS

Football Set for NCAA Playoffs The Slippery Rock football team heads to Winston-Salem State University this weekend for the first round of playoffs.

Page C-1

CAMPUS LIFE

Music Education In Eurthythmics Students learned more about vocal improvisation at a workshop Tuesday with music therapy professor Laurie Jones.

Page D-1

Native American Celebration Day SRU honored Native American Celebration Day Tuesday in the Student Center Ballroom with cultural dress and traditional storytelling.

Page D-1

PHOTO BY JONATHAN JANASIK

Construction workers tear apart the former Sheetz gas station Thursday afternoon following the opening of Sheetz's new location down the road.

Sheetz expands at new location

By Jonathan Janasik News Editor

The new Sheetz officially opened its doors to the public at Thursday at 7 a.m., the same day that the old Sheetz closed.

Junior Physiology and Philosophy major Christie Gribschaw was one of the people who was in attendance of the grand opening of the new store. According to Gribschaw, about 30 people were lined up at 7 a.m. waiting for the new Sheetz to open. She stated that some people were so excited that they were taking pictures.

“It’s just a Sheetz, it’s nothing special,” Gribschaw said. “It’s bigger, it’s got seating. It’s a gas station.”

Others found the new Sheetz to be exciting.

“I like it a lot, it’s much better than the old Sheetz,” Wisenfluh food service employee Jean Bartley said.

“I think it’s pretty awesome,” said Michal Kay, operator at Alleghany Mineral Corporation. “It’s big, so it can hold a crowd like the old Sheetz used to.”

The new sheets includes more space, indoor and outdoor seating areas, a walk-in drink freezer, and more fuel pumps.

In March last year while the new Sheetz was in its planning stages, the Slippery Rock Borough council preformed a traffic study to make sure that the additional traffic from the new Sheetz would not cause an increase in accidents and traffic jams.

In a previous Rocket interview, Ryan Bauder, the assistant manager of of Sheetz in March 2012 said, “I don’t think the location of the new Sheetz will cause any traffic problems whatsoever. The location is more convenient, and the parking lot will be much easier to drive through because it will be pretty big.”

Owner of Powell Auto Solutions Inc., Neal Powel explained that although he hasn’t personally noticed any more traffic than usual on Franklin Street, some costumers have told him that there has been significantly more traffic on the road heading into town near the bank and BP gas station.

Powel said that the traffic might be caused by the fact that there is no turning lane to get into Sheetz from that one specific road, while every other road in that four way has an accessible entrance.

The Sheetz management was unavailable for comment.

Slippery Rock landlord's death splits town, borough council

By Jonathan Janasik News Editor

The recent death of a Slippery Rock landlord has left the community shocked and divided.

Frank Monteleone Jr. shot and killed himself next to the back entrance of the Slippery Rock borough building Saturday night.

Bonnie Davis, his girlfriend of 17 years, said that his death was completely unexpected and that Monteleone had never shown any signs of depression.

“He just made arrangements to go away on New Years Eve and Thanksgiving the day before,” Davis said. “On Friday, we went out Christmas shopping.”

Davis explained that since Monteleone’s death, some people have had concerns with signing a lease with the Monteleone Apartments.

“There’s going to be no changes, it’s going to be run the same as it has been. My daughter’s been helping me, my son has been coming up.

Everything will stay the same.

Davis stated that she believes that Monteleone committed suicide in front of the

borough building because he frequently got in arguments with council members who would ignore his opinions on public matters.

“He’s been fighting this council for years now and it just got to him,” said Larry McCool, owner of Slippery Rock Sportswear. “You can’t get anywhere with them, they don’t care about anybody. That’s what he fought and I guess he couldn’t handle it anymore.”

The most recent disagreement between Monteleone and the borough council was over the council’s decision last September to move the bulk trash days from May to March.

“He’s worked so hard to try and get the bulk trash pickup day back for students because the students pay [for] garbage [pickup], they deserve to have the bulk pickup in May,” Davis said. “He fought tooth and nail for it.”

“A lot of people claim that decision [to change the bulk trash pickup day] was motivated against [Monteleone] because some of the borough council members didn’t like him, so they wanted to get even with him,” explained council member and SRU English professor Dr. Itzi Meztli.

Council member Bob Bowser agreed that

Monteleone has helped the community, but he also had concerns about him.

“Frank did a lot of good for the community, he donated a lot of money to people,” explained Bowser. “But in the last several months, he showed a side of himself that needed help.”

Tuesday, the borough had a meeting related to discussing a new budget and advertising initiatives. Before the meeting began Davis handed out stickers featuring a photograph of Monteleone. Meztli proposed standing up and having a moment of silence in honor of Monteleone.

Bowser objected to it, saying that Monteleone threatened to shoot the council.

After a moment of silence was held, the council member stated the council sent their thoughts and hearts to the Monteleone family.

David’s daughter Victoria Crawford commented about she didn’t think it was sincere.

“It might be [sincere] from them, but not from me,” Bowser responded.

SEE MONTELEONE'S, PAGE A-2

NEWS

A-2 7-DAY FORECAST FOR SLIPPERY ROCK FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Rain at times

Snow showers in the afternoon

Colder with snow showers

Partly sunny

Rather cloudy and chilly

Cloudy with snow possible

Mostly cloudy with flurries

49°

30°

34°

18°

26°

REAL FEAL TEMPERATURE

Fri.

Sat.

Sun. Mon.

Tue.

Wed. Thu.

Fri.

CITY Akron Allentown Altoona Cleveland Erie Harrisburg Indiana Johnstown Philadelphia Pittsburgh Scranton State College Wheeling Williamsport Youngstown

Friday HI LO W 49 30 r 54 39 r 54 32 r 47 30 r 49 32 r 56 37 r 51 30 r 50 30 r 58 42 sh 52 32 r 52 32 r 52 32 r 52 32 r 52 32 r 49 30 r

Saturday HI LO W 33 17 sf 45 24 pc 38 21 pc 34 21 sn 35 22 sn 44 27 pc 35 19 sf 32 15 sf 51 28 pc 37 22 sf 41 20 pc 40 20 pc 36 18 sf 43 22 pc 36 18 sf

32°

21°

24°

37°

Sat.

Sun

Sun. Mon.

Tue.

Wed. Thu.

The higher the AccuWeather.com UV Index number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection. 0-2 Low; 3-5 Moderate; 6-7 High; 8-10 Very High; 11+ Extreme.

Sunday HI LO W 25 18 sf 31 19 sf 25 16 sf 24 21 sf 28 20 sn 35 19 sf 23 15 sf 20 13 sf 33 22 sf 28 16 sf 27 16 sf 27 16 sf 28 16 sf 28 16 sf 24 16 sf

Monday HI LO W 34 23 pc 36 22 s 32 23 pc 36 27 pc 33 28 c 35 27 s 32 22 pc 28 21 pc 38 30 s 36 25 pc 32 24 s 33 24 pc 34 26 pc 35 24 pc 33 22 pc

Tuesday HI LO W 38 25 pc 40 30 c 41 24 pc 39 28 c 39 30 c 44 27 c 37 25 c 35 23 c 44 34 c 40 26 pc 39 27 pc 40 25 pc 40 27 pc 42 25 pc 38 24 c

36°

26°

34°

NATIONAL FORECAST FOR THE WEEK TEMPERATURES

14°

Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal

IN THE SKY

™

The patented AccuWeather.com RealFeel Temperature is an exclusive index of effective temperature based on eight weather factors. Shown are the highest and lowest values for each day.

REGIONAL CITIES

14°

UV INDEX

®

Wednesday HI LO W 40 24 c 40 27 sn 41 28 sn 40 29 sf 38 28 sf 45 34 sn 37 27 sn 37 25 sn 40 26 r 39 28 sn 40 28 sn 40 28 sn 41 28 c 43 31 sn 37 25 sf

Thursday HI LO W 35 16 c 36 22 c 37 15 c 35 19 sf 34 19 sn 41 17 pc 35 14 sf 33 14 sf 46 21 pc 37 16 c 38 15 pc 35 15 c 38 15 pc 36 15 c 34 16 c

ROCK NOTES

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Moon

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Rise 7:16 a.m.

7:17 a.m.

7:18 a.m.

7:19 a.m.

7:21 a.m.

7:22 a.m.

7:23 a.m.

Rise 9:27 p.m.

10:24 p.m.

11:21 p.m. none 12:19 a.m.

1:19 a.m.

2:21 a.m.

MOON PHASES

Set 4:56 p.m.

4:56 p.m.

4:55 p.m.

4:55 p.m.

4:54 p.m.

4:54 p.m.

4:53 p.m.

Set 10:58 a.m.

11:32 a.m.

12:04 p.m.

12:33 p.m.

1:02 p.m.

1:32 p.m.

2:03 p.m.

Last

New

First

Full

11v/25

12/2

12/9

12/17

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2013

By Kevin Squires Assistant News Editor

INDEX

220 Eisenberg Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, PA 16057

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

Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal

National Summary: A cold front will move across the Southeast and South Texas Saturday, causing rain showers. A storm system in the Great Lakes will produce some snow showers for this region. An area of high pressure will provide cold and dry conditions for the Upper Midwest and northern Plains. A potent storm system in the Desert Southwest will produce rain and thunderstorms, some of which can be heavy and lead to flooding concerns. The potent storm system in the Desert Southwest will move into Texas Sunday and Monday, creating the potential for a heavy rainfall event. An area of high pressure will move into the Southeast by Monday. Most of the West will become dry and mostly sunny.

NATIONAL CITIES

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday CITY HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W HI LO W Atlanta 65 55 pc 61 31 c 48 29 s 46 36 s 47 44 r 54 40 pc 56 29 s Boston 50 38 r 47 27 pc 35 22 sf 35 28 s 41 32 pc 44 32 r 43 19 pc Chicago 39 24 r 29 13 pc 26 21 pc 35 25 c 37 23 pc 39 25 pc 38 16 c Cincinnati 54 32 r 39 21 pc 29 16 pc 39 26 s 44 29 r 44 28 pc 42 19 s Dallas 40 34 r 45 36 c 42 32 c 40 36 r 46 34 r 53 39 s 60 31 pc Denver 29 16 c 34 18 pc 45 25 c 44 27 pc 54 27 s 47 23 s 44 17 pc Detroit 45 26 r 33 18 sf 28 18 pc 32 26 c 37 24 c 37 27 c 35 17 pc Houston 76 48 t 55 41 r 50 41 c 47 41 r 53 38 c 58 38 s 64 36 pc Indianapolis 48 30 r 39 18 pc 26 16 pc 37 25 pc 41 27 pc 43 26 pc 40 18 s Kansas City 33 24 sn 32 13 s 36 26 s 41 25 pc 43 27 s 45 27 s 45 18 pc Los Angeles 68 51 c 68 51 pc 72 53 pc 75 53 s 74 52 s 69 54 pc 68 48 pc Miami 83 72 sh 82 68 pc 82 70 pc 78 72 pc 83 74 pc 84 70 pc 79 59 pc Nashville 60 41 t 49 26 pc 38 25 s 46 32 s 46 36 r 48 34 pc 51 24 s New Orleans 79 64 t 66 42 r 55 41 pc 58 51 r 61 44 sh 54 46 pc 62 40 s New York City 55 42 r 49 28 pc 33 24 sf 37 31 s 43 34 pc 40 26 sn 45 23 s Orlando 83 63 pc 83 62 pc 72 54 pc 73 59 pc 79 68 c 80 57 sh 72 46 c Phoenix 66 55 r 64 52 t 66 50 c 68 53 pc 72 54 s 73 51 pc 73 51 s San Francisco 63 45 s 61 45 s 63 44 s 62 47 s 61 47 s 60 49 pc 59 46 r Seattle 45 30 s 47 32 pc 52 33 pc 51 37 pc 53 38 pc 51 36 pc 48 45 pc Washington, DC 63 45 sh 54 31 pc 36 25 s 39 30 s 45 36 r 49 38 r 48 23 c Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.

Center and member of the President’s Commission on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation stated.

Solito felt that most Slippery Rock University students are accepting of the bathrooms and proactive actions for trans*students, but that others may not be as embracing of the ideas.

“I think students are fine [with the idea of trans* bathrooms] but I wonder about – not our administrators here - but the higher up, the Council of Trustees and the Board of Governors.”

With the opening of the Robert M. Smith Student Center last year, the university brought to campus its first bathroom that outwardly declared open use for any person regardless of gender identity or expression. The bathroom can be found on the second floor and features an image of a half male-half female symbol.

Hawkins said that the bathroom addition is an important move forward.

“We have made the progressive step of introducing gender neutral bathrooms in the Student Center which will ensure an affirming and more open campus community,” he said.

“Though this seems like a small step, it is a large one at SRU. The gender-neutral restrooms tell us that our university and its administrators genuinely care about the well-being of their students regardless of genderidentity.”

Initially designated as a family bathroom, the President’s Commission for Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation had the facility changed to better represent an acceptance for all students, Dr. Catherine Massey, associate professor of psychology and member of the President’s Commission for Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation, explained.

“There’s fear associated with it,” she said, describing the problems transgender students may face needing to choose either the men’s room or the women’s room. Having the third option is a way she feels the fear is alleviated.

“This has actually been a long time coming,” Massey said. “We went over

our campus and we looked at our bathroom stalls that we had to see what ones would be okay for people who are transgender and we don’t have a lot,” Including with the gender neutral bathroom in the Student Center, Slippery Rock has nine locations with single stall and/or unisex bathrooms throughout the campus.

Solito mentioned wanting to get sign designations for all of these locations like the one in the Student Center.

“We have a long way to go, definitely.” Massey said. However, she admitted that, to her knowledge, using the right bathroom has not presented itself as an issue amongst Slippery Rock University transgender students. “This is an issue that I don’t think we’ve come across. Although we do have transgender students, it doesn’t seem to be a problem in terms of what bathrooms they’re using.”

Massey added that it is still important to address. “There may come a day when it does become an issue. Rather than waiting for that to happen we should have designated bathrooms in multiple places on campus,” she said.

There is currently not any monitoring of the restroom’s usage but that usage is not really the issue, according to Massey. “It’s more about them feeling that they have that choice so if they feel uncomfortable going into the men’s room or the women’s room they have an alternative and they’re not forced to do it.”

“Purely from a financial standpoint, it may be an issue of cost,” Solito said as a possible reason to not have the facilities, though she added that when a new building is being built it is an easier task.

Massey would like to see consideration in adding the third bathroom option to all renovated or new buildings on campus, as she states some other PASSHE universities require, starting with the renovations to Miller Auditorium.

“In designing that building they should have a gender neutral bathroom as well. That’s something that I think the commission needs to bring up with the president,” she said.

Monteleone's advertisement allegedly threatened council Continued from Page A-1

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

PRECIPITATION

Transgender bathroom policies addressed in California and SRU

The state of California passed what some are referring to as the “transgender bathroom bill” this year.

Ca. Gov. Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill 1266, The School Success and Opportunity Act, in Aug., setting it to take effect as law in Jan. Ask the President If you have any questions for President Cheryl J. Norton, let “Many people don't think about The Rocket know on Facebook, Twitter, or by email. Emails can what it would be like if you had to use be sent to rocket.news@sru.edu. Submit on social media with the restroom opposite of the gender #AskNorton. with which you identify. For trans* people, they are too often forced to Soar Campus Trail Workday use the restroom that aligns with the Join SOAR (Students for Outdoor Activities and Recreation) for sex assigned to them at birth, rather a day of upgrading and refurbishing the trail system on campus.

The work to be done includes creating a continuous trail across than feeling comfortable enough, campus by trimming back vegetation, clearing the trail, closing off or safe enough, to use the restroom social trails and installing trail blazes and maps of the trail system. with which their gender aligns,” Kris Contact SOAR President Andy Millick at ajm7352@sru.edu for more Hawkins, President of RockOUT and information. senior psychology major, 21, said.

The bill would permit any Weekly Cycle Aerobics individual in primary or secondary The President's Commission on Wellness, in conjunction with the Physical and Health Education Department, will be offering educational programs to “participate a Cycle Aerobics class every Wednesday morning from 6:30 - 7:15 in sex-segregated school programs am in the Field House. The class intensity and workout can be and activities, including athletic self-regulated to meet your own individual needs. Please bring teams and competitions, and use water and a towel. Lockers and showers are available. For more facilities consistent with his or her information, please contact Randy Nichols at randall.nichols@ sru.edu or Hannah Brewer at hannah.brewer@sru.edu. gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records.”

The bill has gotten a reputation as the “transgender bathroom bill” for the To submit a Rock Note please send inclusion of use of facilities based on your announcement gender identity.

However, not all residents are by 6 p.m. Wednesday to Jon pleased with the bill. According to Janasik at jtj9529@sru.edu or to their website, group called Privacy for All Students submitted over rocket.news@sru.edu. The Rocket 620,000 signatures this week in an does not guarantee that all requests effort to reevaluate the decision with will be published in the paper. a public vote in the Nov. 2014 ballot.

The signatures are currently in the process of being verified by each of the Ca. counties. If the referendum qualifies for the ballot, AB 1266 will be suspended until Ca. voters decide whether to approve or reject it.

Blotter.................A-3 Sports...................C-1 “I think most prejudice comes from a lack of understanding – a Opinion...............B-1 Campus Life.............D-1 fear of what we don’t know about.

Comics...................B-4 Special Section........E-1 If people would really learn about it and see how this feeling of ‘I’m in the wrong body’ actually occurs, I think those people would be less hateful.”

Jodi Solito, director of the Women’s

CONTACT US

November 22, 2013

Two people from the audience shouted, “You ought to be ashamed of yourself” at Bowser.

Slippery Rock borough Chief of Police Terry Fedokovitz stopped the argument by saying, “You have to keep some order here. Whether you liked the man or hated him, respected him or not, it’s a human life that was lost. You cannot disrespect the people on either side.”

Although Bowser did apologize for not wanting a moment of silence, he stood by his opinion that Monteleone threatened him and the council in letters that Monteleone published through paid advertisements in the Butler Eagle.

One of the specific advertisements Bowser mentioned titled “Government Bullying Must Stop!” was published in the Butler Eagle on June 3.

The advertisement began with a story about how a man once approached Monteleone and said, “someone is going to go postal in this town someday and pull a Clay Duke.”

The man then explained to Monteleone, “[Duke] is the guy who took a gun to the Florida School Board.”

He continued to say that he hopes that nothing similar happens here, and that “shootings happen every day from bullying.”

Monteleone then stated that what that man said was what inspired him to write to the Butler Eagle about how government bullying should get public attention like cyber bullying and bullying at schools. He then listed several examples of times that he believed the borough council bullied himself and other during the borough meeting.

Monteleone concluded his article by stating that he plans to give back to the community by stopping government bullying before his retirement.

“Most mental health professionals I’ve talked to over the last four months have agreed with me,” Bowser said.

“I’ve had 30 people call me [and ask], ‘why hasn’t he been arrested yet?’”

“He said that somebody approached him and said that they better be careful that somebody doesn’t shoot the council,” Bowser said. “Well, if somebody did that and pushed [Monteleone] why didn’t he take that to the authorities? Why did he sit on it and take it out in the Butler Eagle?”

There will be a viewing open to everyone at the Smith Funeral Home on 421 New Castle St., Slippery Rock, Pa on Friday Nov. 22 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. and on Saturday Nov. 23 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. At 12 p.m. the service will begin.

November 22, 2013

NEWS

A-3

POLICE BLOTTER Borough

ambulance transported the individual to Grove City Medical.

10 MPH, and restrictions on alcoholic beverages.

Nov. 14 - Shane Eichenlaub and Kolby Ripper were cited for open container violations along Grove City Road.

Nov. 13 – Jacob Fowler, 32, of Butler, was seen Nov. 19 – There was a report of a registered sex for three counts assault, theft by unlawful taking or offender around children at an event held at the movement of property, harassment, and criminal Robert M. Smith Student Center. The individual mischief involving damaged property.

Nov. 16 - Kyle Dalrymple was arrested for Public was escorted off campus and no other action was Drunkenness after being seen highly intoxicated taken. and falling over along West Cooper Street.

Nov. 13 – Nicholas Taylor, 38, of Morrisdale, was Nov. 19 – A driver reported backing into a sign seen for two counts DUI, driving at safe speed, Nov. 16 - Samantha Casto and Zachary Dorste at Founders. No damage or injuries occurred and reckless endangerment of another person, careless were cited for open container violations along no other action was taken. driving, and reckless driving.

Cornish Drive.

Nov. 19 – There was a report of harassment at Nov. 17 - Zachary Kennedy, Brandon Bowman Rhoads Hall. Officers contacted all parties and Nov. 13 – Samantha Tirk, 22, of New Kensington, and Christopher O’Malley were cited for Disorderly informed them not to make contact. The incident was seen for two counts of manufacturing, House after an alcohol violation in Gateway Park. was referred to judicial. delivering, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, and possession of a contraband substance Nov. 19 - Amber Craig was charged with Nov. 19 – Police responded to a medical call for by a person not registered.

Misdemeanor Retail Theft relating to an incident an individual having a panic attack at the Smith at the Puff and Snuff store in Slippery Rock.

Student Center. The individual was transported to the Health Center.

Nov. 13 – Lucas Coalton, 20, of Butler, was seen Campus for manufacturing, delivering, or possession with Nov. 20 – Police observed suspicious behavior intent to manufacture or deliver, use/possession of Nov. 18 – A robbery was reported on North at the Water Tower Lot. Drug violation charges drug paraphernalia, three counts DUI, and small Road. The chief of police was notified and the case are pending. amount/personal use marijuana. is under investigation.

Magistrate Nov. 19 – A traffic incident took place on Stadium Nov. 13 – Robert McLaughlin, 23, of Prospect, Drive. There were no injuries.

Nov. 13 – Brayden McCorry, 20, of Slippery was seen for two counts DUI and for driving while Rock, was seen for two counts DUI, disregarding operating privileges were suspended or revoked.

Nov. 19 – Police responded to a Metis alarm a traffic lane, purchase of an alcoholic beverage by set off at ATS for an individual passed out. An a minor, exceeding 55 MPH in other location by Compiled by Kevin Squires

Replacement bridge for Spotts' total cost estimated as $150,000

By Kevin Squires Assistant News Editor

Initial costs have been determined in building a replacement for the bridge at Spotts which was closed after being declared unsafe by engineers last week.

Herb Carlson, SRU Assistant Vice President for Construction Design and Management, stated the cost as about $150,000. However, the bridge could not be replaced until summer at the earliest.

Carlson said that this deadline is not ideal for the university and getting the bridge reopened as soon as possible is important, even if it means a quick fix.

“The engineer is supposed to come up with an estimated cost," Carlson said.

The University has approved expenses to replace the bridge, but estimates for the temporary replacement

have not yet come in from engineers. Cost would likely be an important factor on if a temporary replacement will be initiated.

“That’s a decision that has to be made by someone that isn’t me. It becomes a question of is it worth spending that money.”

The causes of the bridge shut down have also been determined as the result of spalling and damaged wiring in the structure of the bridge.

Built in 1970, the bridge underwent 30 years of cracking and erosion that was exasperated by salting the bridge in the winter to reduce snow and ice. In 2000, a heating system was installed to reduce the need for salt in the winter.

However, when the system was installed, drilling caused damage to essential support wiring that ran

inside the bridge. It also allowed water to enter the cement. Over the years, the damaged wires have rusted and become less and less stable, in addition to the ongoing cracking.

“The engineers who designed that should have realized what they were doing,” Carlson said.

With the new bridge approved, the current one is expected to be demolished.

“The whole thing will go away. We’ll have a new preengineered bridge that will be all metal," Carlson said. The heating system will then be added and concrete poured overtop the entire structure. It has yet to be determined if the bridge will still extend from the second floor or if it will slope down to the first or up to the third.

Carlson felt that the most likely location for the bridge will be to remain where it currently resides.

A-4

November 22, 2013

OPINION

O

Our View

OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 96, Number 11

220 Eisenberg Classroom Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania 16057 Phone: Fax: E-mail:

(724) 738-4438 (724) 738-4896 rocket.letters@sru.edu

EDITORIAL BOARD Catie Clark

Editor-in-Chief

Jon Janasik

News Editor

Rebecca Marcucci

Campus Life Editor

Madeline Williams

Sports Editor

Alex Mowrey

Photo Editor

Todd Hart

Web/Social Media Editor

Mary Leach

Copy Editor

Kevin Squires

Assistant News Editor

Stephanie Cheek

Assistant Campus Life Editor

Kristin Karam

Assistant Sports Editor

Rebecca Dietrich

Assistant Photo Editor

Alyssa Cirincione Mark Zeltner

Multimedia Reporter Faculty Adviser

ADVERTISING STAFF Karleigh Santry

Advertising Manager

ABOUT US The Rocket is published by the students of Slippery Rock University every Friday during the academic semester with the exception of holidays, exam periods and vacations. Total weekly circulation is 3,000. No material appearing in The Rocket may be reprinted without the written consent of the Editor-in-Chief.

The first copy of The Rocket is provided free of charge.

Additional copies may be purchased for 50 cents each.

The Rocket receives approximately five percent of its funding from the SGA General Service fee paid each semester by students. All other income is provided through the sale of advertising.

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

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

Gender neutral bathrooms New ‘transgender’ bathrooms a publicity stunt by SRU should be more widespread Jonathan Janasik California recently passed what some are referring to as the “transgender bathroom bill”.

Ca. Gov. Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill 1266, The School Success and Opportunity Act, in August, setting it to take effect as law in January.

For SRU students, a transgender bathroom isn’t a brand new subject. With the opening of the Robert M. Smith Student Center last year, the university brought to campus its first bathroom that outwardly declared open use for any person regardless of gender identity or expression. The bathroom can be found on the second floor and features an image of a half male and half female symbol.

With a university traditionally being an atmosphere where students are given the opportunity to develop themselves and discover what they are looking for in life, why do we only have one of these bathrooms?

As a university, we should be more supportive of students’ needs, and if a ‘transgendered’ bathroom will do that, then we should have more.

Many public places already have ‘family’ bathrooms, why not stretch the definition of such a restroom out to cover a more diverse group of people, instead of being explicitly for a changing room for babies.

The majority of the campus’ population is made of students aged 18-24, so it would only make sense to include more gender neutral bathrooms, because there are so few students with children.

The only problem with the bathroom is that there is only one on the entire campus, in our newest building. And nobody knows about it.

If more of these starting popping up around campus, we’re sure they would get more use. We just need to get to that point.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions to The Rocket are available. Subscriptions are $20 per academic semester and $35 for the full academic year. Inquiries should be directed to the Editor-in-Chief at the address listed here.

EDITORIAL POLICY

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.

News Editor Designating a bathroom to be gender equal is nothing more than a publicity stunt. It’s something that was likely sent to everybody in a “Good News” e-mail from the PR department. Trying to make people feel more comfortable at the university is a step forward, but changing one bathroom is just that. One step forward.

Compare it to making the campus wheelchair accessible. We don’t build one ramp and then consider it a job well done there needs to be a consistency around campus. As of now, there is one gender-neutral bathroom. If someone is too uncomfortable to use a designated gender bathroom, they only have one option of places to go which is extremely inconvenient.

It’s been reported that there are nine other bathrooms that are open to receive gender-neutral signs. That brings up another point, these bathrooms were always open to everyone. The only thing that that will change is that now these bathrooms have cute signs that anger old Republicans. Is that small a change really what we qualify as a step forward?

If SRU is actually dedicated to pushing gender-equal bathrooms, they should prove it by doing something that’s substantial. One of the options that is currently being considered is to build more throughout the campus. This, however, seems unrealistic. All we’ve been hearing about lately is how the entire Pa. higher education system is in a financial crisis and is threatening to fire faculty members. It would send an undesirable message to the public if they found out how much we were spending on new bathrooms, while at the same time so many other cuts were being considered.

While trying to be more inclusive with gender-neutral bathrooms is admirable, the university is at a dead end at how to move forward. Sure, they can rename bathrooms that already allow anyone to use but I wouldn’t consider that to be a serious effort to bring about change. Maybe in the future, it will be feasible to create a feeling of true equality when it comes to bathrooms but as of now, the university has only taken that one small first step.

This week’s question: How do you feel about SRU installing gender neutral bathrooms?

The Rocket strives to present a diverse range of opinions that are both fair and accurate in its editorials and columns appearing on the Opinion pages. “Our View” is the opinion of the Editorial Board and is written by Rocket editorial board members. It reflects the majority opinion of The Rocket Editorial Board.

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

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

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

Those who submit letters must identify themselves by name, year in school, major and/or group affiliation, if any.

Please limit letters to a maximum of 400 words. Submit all material by noon Wednesday to: The Rocket, 220 ECB, Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pa. 16057. Or send it via e-mail to: rocket.letters@sru.edu.

Tess Kowaoski Sophomore Elementary Education Major Burgettstown, Pa.

Jessica Laughlin Sophomore Therapeutic Recreation Major Allentown, Pa.

Royce Copeland Junior Exercise Science Major San Diego, Ca.

“It’s weird I guess. I really don’t want to share a bathroom with guys.”

“It would be helpful in terms of families that come to visit campus. It’s a public place, so I don’t see why we shouldn’t install them.”

“I wouldn’t mind it. It would save money and space. I don’t see a problem with it.”

November 22, 2013

Graduation can be bittersweet, students should consider going to grad school

OPINION LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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

Chivalry dates back to Medieval times, not just about ideals between men and women Dear Lonely Feminist,

Ashley Cook Pixie Posts Ashley Cook is a senior English major from Gibsonia, Pa.

Most students would agree that graduating is bitter sweet. If you don’t agree right now, it’s probably because you’re not close enough to graduating to realize it. When the time comes, you will remember those four years (sometimes more) you have spent at this school, the countless late night hours at the library, the copious amounts of caffeine consumed daily, and the deep friendships and unforgettable memories you have created here.

Soon you will finish all your exams and papers and the next thing you know, you will be at the graduation ceremony in that awkwardly fitting hat, crying your eyes out with tears of relief, joy, and sadness. Personally, I know I will be crying this December because of all of these emotions. I could never express how grateful I am to the professors that have helped me these years, the countless hours my advisor has dedicated to me, and the friends that have stuck with me while I was a hermit studying for exams or writing papers every weekend. I cannot stress enough to younger students the importance of forming strong relationships with your professors and peers in these years; they all have such unique things to teach you.

But as you finish off your final semesters, remember that it is not really over at all. Now you have to find a job, which I hear is not so easy these days unless you’re content working fast food or retail for the unforeseeable future. If you don’t plan on going into your career immediately after graduating, you are probably looking into furthering your education at the graduate level, which comes with its ups and downs in itself.

This is the route I have decided to take. If applying to graduate school is any indication of what actual grad school is like, my friends and I are in for a rough time. Applying to each school is around one hundred dollars with the combination of application fees and sending your GRE scores to the university. Oh yeah, and the GRE’s themselves cost around two hundred dollars. And did I mention that all of the application essays, letters of recommendation, and other various forms all need to be done while you are simultaneously trying to do all of your school work to graduate at the undergraduate level? The deadlines approach faster than you would think, some as early as Dec. 10th.

My intention is not to scare anyone away from applying to graduate school; I simply wish to inform students of the time consuming process that is in store for them if they have no yet begun the journey. No one warned me of the endless frustration and anxiety of furthering your education and I think it is something that our university should stress more to students. Often we are discouraged from going on for a master’s degree because of the high level of competition, but I think that students should be prepared for what is in store for them if they decide to go to graduate school. It takes a lot of personal dedication, hard work, and support from your professors and other mentors, but I would argue that it is completely worth it in the pursuit of your dreams.

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are trying to say in regards to me being nice to the ‘fairer sex’, being I understand your position chivalrous is how I was raised. It on the topic of chivalry, but I is also how I plan on raising my wholeheartedly disagree. With child, male or female. Everyone the strength of 10,000 angry bulls should hold the door open for actually. Why does it have to be a whoever is walking behind him or sex thing all the time? The idea of her, whether they are the opposite chivalry is dated back to a Medieval sex or not. I am not doing this Knight code of morals and social for some selfish gratification, so I conduct; therefore, chivalry does can say to my friends “OH YEAH not necessarily pertain only to DUDE, HELD THE DOOR OPEN actions from male to female. I hold FOR A GIRL TODAY. TOTALLY the door open for those of my WANTS TO HAVE SEX WITH same sex, for little kids and for ME NOW.” Any nice act I perform handicapped people as well. Are is for their benefit; I am helping my you saying let the door slam in fellow human being out. One could their face? Let the little kid freeze if say that I am ‘paying it forward’. My I have a coat on? Just let the chivalry manners are not based on gender; die? To go along with what you my manners are based on being a

decent, moral, human being.

I will make sure to spend a day where I don’t do anything but let doors slam in girls faces and not move out of the way if they are bearing down on me on the sidewalk. I am sure they will appreciate that and that most men and women would completely disagree with your ignorant standpoint on this whole concept of chivalry.

To quote Lena Dunham, “I love what I do, I love every minute of it.”

Sincerely, Chivalrous Knight

Let’s Talk About “Quality” and “Education.” Or Not. Everyone is now depressingly familiar with the budget crisis facing the PASSHE schools, SRU included. Today, lots more people have “retrenchment” in their personal vocabulary. The threats are familiar: the firing of tenured faculty, the non-renewal of temporary faculty, the possible closure of academic departments or the suspension of particular majors. In response, university administrators have talked about jobs, deficits, budgets, demand, and the infamous “workforce plan” ad nauseam. What they haven’t talked much about is education. Sure, they invoke PASSHE’s mission of providing students with a “quality education,” but they never say what that phrase means or say what they’re going to do to protect it in these terrible times. When Chancellor Brogan stopped by SRU two weeks ago he, too, had nothing substantial to say about education. Strange, considering his role as chancellor of a state-funded university system.

Brogan did speak about a few things, and he did so in a specific way. Not only what he said, but how he said it, should frighten those of us at the mercy of his authority, students and faculty alike. First, Brogan attributes the declining enrollment at PASSHE schools to “declining population generally.” This is not only vague and useless for an understanding of enrollment, it is misleading. It makes it sound like there are fewer students going to college these days because there are fewer people having babies or moving their families to western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia. It would have been more accurate, and more honest, for Brogan to cite the systematic decrease of funding for public education carried out by Republican governor Tom Corbett. It would have been more accurate for Brogan to talk about poverty as a major cause of declining enrollments and how student aid policies rarely help students from the poorest families get into college, let alone climb out of poverty. Brogan would have spoken the truth if he had mentioned that his political vision is right in line with Corbett’s.

Second, when Brogan spoke about education it was to suggest that “we need to look at…our [general education] program and look at it deeply….” This is to make sure that PASSHE is providing a “world class experience” for students. But he said nothing about what this would entail beyond his suggestion that having a class with a student from a foreign country counts as an international education. But how could any of the PASSHE schools provide a world-class education without a robust modern languages program, which provides the linguistic tools to properly understand the literature, culture, and philosophy of other peoples? Wouldn’t a world-class education guarantee that SRU students could speak to their foreign classmates in a foreign language?

Modern languages is a severely disabled program in the PASSHE system, constantly targeted for budget cuts. Does Brogan really believe that students can get a genuine international education without leaving campus? Without intensive study of modern languages (to say nothing of ancient languages)?

Brogan should have said what a world-class general education means to him, and how he plans on helping PASSHE achieve world-class status while cutting those programs that help students truly understand the world and their place in it. Instead, he offered us the “Travel Channel” approach to international education. We are far from his ideal, and there is reason to suspect that Brogan will not only fail to help us realize it, but actually make it worse.

Third, he talked about closing programs that

are “undersubscribed.” Since when are university programs like magazines? Is the university’s job to provide whatever programs that high school students demand? Last time I checked the university is a place for students to discover and think about new ideas, concepts, and problems that they were unaware of before attending the university. Brogan’s vision, however, is the “Your Way, Right Away” approach to majoring and minoring. Unfortunately, that’s just not a vision for a university system. High school simply doesn’t teach students how to design and run a university. On Brogan’s logic, SRU should supply the programs students want. I’m sure that if SRU offered a degree in retail store sales, and promised internships at the Grove City Outlets, then there would be a significant demand for this major.

Does this mean that SRU should start such a major?

Can a university offer any degree it wants, provided that students and employers want it? Should there be a degree in Humans vs. Zombies? Surely none of this is in the PASSHE mission statement. What we do find in the mission is a promise of quality education, but administrators don’t want to talk about what this means.

Finally, Brogan talked about PASSHE as “different from any other education delivery system.” Let’s call this the “Post Office” view of education. For Brogan, education is something that is packaged, shipped, and delivered by the university and its personnel.

Presumably, this means that a professor’s job is to deliver knowledge to her students, responsibly packaged, on time, and at an affordable price.

Isn’t online education the logical outcome of this vision—education literally delivered to your home?

Unless I’m mistaken, education is a cooperative (not corporate) enterprise, something that faculty and students share together. This means that education is precisely not something that can be delivered.

If it were, then the ideal education would involve hooking up the student’s brain to a computer and downloading their degree directly to their neural hard drive. Now, that’s an ideal vision, but it’s not a responsible vision of education. Teaching is not about delivering packages. It’s about exploring ideas together, sharing new ideas, and seeing the connections between different disciplines. That’s what general education is all about. It’s the heart of a university education; it’s deeply personal and best accomplished face to face. That’s where the “rubber meets the humanity road,” as Brogan would say.

Slippery Rock is not the Travel Channel, the US Postal Service, or Burger King. It is not a corporate training ground. It is a university. It’s time that our administrators and state education officials stop talking like economists and businesspeople and start talking about education. What is their vision of education and teaching? What do President Norton and Chancellor Brogan think a university education should be? It can’t just be about job preparation. Lots of things prepare us for jobs, so what’s special about the university? Do criminology students really just want to become police officers? If so, why not attend the police academy instead? They must be looking for something more than job training at SRU. Let’s talk about what that “more” must involve in order for it to be “world-class.” Chances are that getting a world-class education is going to take a fight, a fight for better political leaders, better educational vision, and better funding for public education. If our university administrators aren’t fighting for these things, are they really invested in education?

Tom Sparrow Department of Philosophy

November 22, 2013

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C COMICS

Horoscopes

By Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency (MCT) Today's Birthday (11/22/13). Teach what you most want to learn this year. Your vision inspires, and communication comes easily. Take a long-term approach with love and money. Pay down debt and save.

Lighten your load. Nourish and deepen cherished partnerships. Patience, compromise and listening take you higher. Explore new concepts, cultures and philosophies, and share insights. Your vitality grows.

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 -- For the next month, with the Sun in Sagittarius, it's easier to explore new areas. Your capacity to follow orders right now helps you grow. Don't overspend out of guilt.

Love is on the upswing. Enjoy delightful moments.

COMICS Spaghett Kat

By Jack Johnehsick It wasn‛t my idea, my Spaghett Kat plotted against me to steal my spaghetti. I have no idea why he would do such a thing! He‛s a nice cat.

Can you tell me why you thought it would be a good idea to feed your cat spaghetti?

Nope, he‛s dead.

Please just tell me. Is he going to make it?

Spaghett Kat is a medical drama about sexy doctors.

This week, Doctor McHairy deals with a saucy situation.

Read the commentary for comments from a real viewer.

He‛s okay. The main character in a weekly comic never dies!

That‛s what I said!

That's Socrates!

Meletus! I studied Eros with your mother last night.

He‛s not dead.

By Jack Johnehsick No you didn‛t Socrates! My mother would never do that with you!

That‛s blind ignorance!

Hubris! Hah, I gottcha.

I think you owe me an apology.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 9 -- It's time to gather up your harvest, as much as you can. Decorate your castle. It's easier to spark innovation when you get your team involved. Let friends talk you into trying something really different.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 7 -- For about a month, let your partner take the lead. Share your feelings, and also listen. If you're doing all the talking, slow down. Abundance leads to overload. Learn a management trick. Communicate and share.

Brewster Rockit: Space Guy

By Tim Rickard

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 9 -- It's a very busy month ahead! Your capacity to make money is higher than normal, and so are temptations to spend.

Make sure to end with a positive balance. Provide well for family. Let someone else cook.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- You're on top of a cloud, full of ideas and passion. Get grounded, or you may float away. Make time for love, fun and games over the next month. Sleep well. This increases the odds that ideas get realized.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 8 -- There's not a moment to lose. Prioritize obligations so that you're not overwhelmed. Take one step at a time.

You're lucky now, especially sensitive, and passions percolate. Spend time outdoors or in meditation.

Draw, write and record.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Concentrate on your studies for the next month so you can rest easy during the holidays. You're becoming more interested and interesting. Don't forget to collect an old debt. And don't sweat the small stuff. Friends help out.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 9 -- Your feelings are intensified, and so is the amount of work ahead. It could seem overwhelming. Take frequent breaks. For the next month, it's easier to make money, and your status rises. You get what you want at home.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 8 -- It may not look like it just now, but for the next month, you have an advantage. Study with confidence. You're not afraid to take risks when you're committed. Spend, but do so wisely; don't waste money now. Listen at keyholes.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 9 -- A lack of funds could threaten your plans. Save where you can, spending only on what furthers your career or special project. For about four weeks, finish up old business. Don't eat too much. Family pulls together.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 8 -- There's more than you thought there would be, despite the circumstances. Your team is red hot and ready for action. If you don't know how to proceed, don't be afraid to ask for directions. Talk to your talented partners.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Focus on your career, and don't look back. See how your network can support you in getting your ideas into action. Clean up messes when they occur. Serve others without compensation. Perform an anonymous good deed. (c)2013 bY NANCY BLACK DISTRIBUTED

BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Bliss

By Harry Bliss

INSIDE SPORTS

S

Men's Basketball

SPORTS

Basketball Exclusive

Coach Kevin Reynolds earns his 100th career win at Slippery Rock with a victory over the Clarion Golden Eagles.

Check out the special "Rock Jam" SRU Men's and Women's basketball section.

See Page C-2

See Page E-1

Sweet Sixteen Bound

By Matthew Morgan Rocket Contributor

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Freshman defender Lynn Neef is embraced by her teammates following Slippery Rock's win against Shippensburg University in overtime in the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs. SRU will face California University of Pa. Friday for a chance to advance to the Elite Eight.

The 12th ranked Slippery Rock women’s soccer team earned its third consecutive trip to the NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen with a 2-1 overtime win against the 24th ranked Shippensburg Raiders on Sunday.

The second round game of the NCAA Division II playoffs was played under dismal conditions with the temperature below-fifty degrees, heavy wind and consistent rainfall.

Slippery Rock persevered through the inclement conditions to give themselves an early lead.

Following a foul in the 21st minute, senior Lauren Impey delivered a free kick past the Raiders senior goalkeeper Shelbie Rackley to put the Rock up 1-0.

“As soon as we got the free kick, one of my teammates came up to me and thought we should do a different type of free kick,” Impey said. “I said no, I am going for it.”

Slippery Rock held the Raiders to no shots in the first half.

The Raiders first shot of the game came during the second half.

A shot that would have been harmless on a dry day proved to be disastrous.

Shippensburg freshman Stephanie Allshouse powered a long range shot in the 62nd minute towards SRU go a l ke e p e r D an a O’Neill.

O’Neill underestimated

slippery state of the rapidly moving ball and could only watch as it slipped out of her hands. Shippensburg junior Kate Zech buried the ball in the back of the open net, tying the game 1-1.

The game would remain scoreless for the rest of regulation play and be decided in overtime.

Less than two weeks prior to this contest, the Rock faced off against the Raiders and saw the game end in a 1-1 tie to end each team’s regular season.

Tying isn’t an option in the NCAA Playoffs.

After nine minutes of overtime play, SRU was awarded with a free kick several yards outside of the goal box. Impey was called upon again to deliver another perfect kick.

With the wind against her and the box crowded full with players from either squad, Impey sent the ball floating towards the far post.

Freshman Sam Thornton was in perfect position and scored the game-winning goal to send SRU to the NCAA Sweet 16. The goal was Thornton’s first of the season.

“We were down a few players going into this game in particular so we had to change things up a little bit upfront,” head coach Noreen Herlihy said.

“Nicole Krueger and Sam Thornton did an absolutely phenomenal job for us upfront. They truly played SEE WOMEN'S, PAGE C-3

SRU earns NCAA playoff berth Men's soccer

By Kristin Karam Assistant Sports Editor

With the 38-42 fall to Bloomsburg in the PSAC Championship game still weighing heavily on their minds, the Slippery Rock football team’s spirits lifted as they received the fifth seed for Super Region One in the NCAA Division II playoffs.

This will be the program’s first appearance in the national playoffs since 1999 and the fourth in head coach George Mihalik’s career.

They will face fourth seed Winston-Salem State University Saturday at the Bowman Gray Stadium in N.C. Mihalik, who was recently named PSAC West Coach of the Year, is confident that the team’s loss to Bloomsburg has strengthened their bond and says they will be ready to face WSSU. “We call ourselves a brotherhood,” Mihalik said.

“Not only in times of success, but in times of defeat. Our

guys are anxious and they’re ready to play.”

Before the 24 teams advancing to NCAA playoffs were announced, many members of the team took to social media and asked for former teammates, Derek Durand and Zach Sheridan, to be with the team during the stressful time.

“Derek Durand and Zach Sheridan continue to be a part of this football team and this brotherhood,” Mihalik said.

“The players haven’t forgotten them and I definitely haven’t forgotten them. They were with us.”

Winston-Salem dropped to the fourth seed after being unable to compete in the CIAA Championship game.

The game was cancelled due to an attack on Rams’ quarterback, Rudy Johnson, by players from Virginia State University at a luncheon prior to the game.

The incident resulted in the cancellation of the CIAA SEE ROCK, PAGE C-2

ends season

By Brian Hepfinger Rocket Contributor

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTEN CAPPATT

Freshman wide receiver Drew Scales takes off down the field during a punt return to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the PSAC Championship game last weekend against Bloomsburg.

The Slippery Rock University men’s soccer team fell to Millersville University Saturday 2-1 in the second round of the Division II NCAA Tournament.

SRU junior midfielder Brandon Chiu scored the first goal of the game in the 24th minute off of an assist from junior forward Dom Francis.

The Rock led the game until halftime, but in the 50th minute Millersville junior forward Austin Hoke sent a 40-yard cross into SRU’s box and scored.

SRU sophomore forward Peter Boylan said the team underrated Millersville and that they had a big dry spell during the game.

“Honestly, I feel that we took them too lightly and let up a bit too much,” Boylan said.

“We were flat footed for a seven minute spell, which in turn caused us the season.”

Millersville junior defender Clark Habecker gave his team the lead in the 53rd minute of the game with a 30-yard long-shot.

SRU junior forward Stephen Donnelly said he thought his team should’ve won the game.

SEE SRU, PAGE C-3

SPORTS

C-2

November 22, 2013

Reynolds earns 100th win at SRU

By Madeline Williams Sports Editor

The Slippery Rock University men’s basketball team knocked off the Clarion Golden Eagles 79-65 in the opening night of the Pennyslvania State Athletic Conference-West season at Morrow Fieldhouse on Wednesday night.

The win was SRU's third consecutive victory.

Senior Maurice Lewis Briggs posted 21 points and 11 rebounds, senior Tabari Perry scored 20 points and had 11 boards, and junior Kelvin Dixon added 12 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Rock (3-1), (1-0 PSAC) with “double-double” performances.

With the loss, Clarion fell to 1-1 and 0-1 in the conference.

S e n i o r Jo s h M a r t i n a l s o contributed 16 points and five assists for SRU. Senior Sa'Quan Davis ran the point and dished out four assists Clarion's Darius Stevens led the visitors with 23 points and 10 rebounds. DeMarius Miller also had 11 points for the Golden Eagles.

The win on Wednesday marks head coach Kevin Reynolds’ 100th victory at the reigns for the Green and White. Reynolds now stands at 100-52 in just five years and four games during his time at Slippery Rock.

While this an exciting milestone to hit, a very humble Coach Reynolds emphasized that it took a team effort to reach this accomplishment.

“The focus has always been the team, never on the individual,” Reynolds said. “Whenever you win a lot of games, it’s accredited to two things- good players and great

coaches. We’ve been lucky to have both. We also have a great support group here at Slippery Rock in fans, administrators, and trainers.”

D u r i ng t h e f i rst h a l f on Wednesday, the score was tied eight times and the lead changed 10 times.

The scored remained close during the first twenty minutes, and Clarion held a slight 35-34 edge at halftime.

“We were nervous before the game. Clarion is an improved and dangerous team this year,” Reynolds said.

Coming back from the half, SRU had an offensive surge and outscored the Golden Eagles 32-15 within the first 11 minutes to take control of the game.

The hosts improved from shooting an icy 35 percent in the first half to making 56 percent of their shots in the second half.

Overall, the Rock shot 46 percent (30-66) from the field, 38 percent (8-21) from three-point range, and 73 percent (11-15) from the charity stripe.

The Green and White held a 5332 rebounding advantage in the game, however had 19 turnovers compared to Clarion’s nine.

The Rock will travel to PSACWest rival California University on Saturday before hosting a threegame homestretch starting on Sunday against Ohio University Eastern. “(Wednesday) was really a mustwin for us. We hate to say that three games into the season, but we really looked at it as that,” Reynolds said.

“Our next game is at Cal-U, which we know is going to be another tough game.”

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Junior forward Kelvin Dixon looks to get past a Clarion University guard at Wednesday night's Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference game. Dixon recorded 12 points, one steal and one assist during the Rock's 79-65 win over the Golden Eagles.

Rock to play Winston-Salem State

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTEN CAPPATT

Senior quarterback Nigel Barksdale looks for an open receiver during last weekend's Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship game against Bloomsburg University.

Barksdale threw for 343 yards and two touchdowns against the Huskies.

Continued from Page C 1

Championship game and Virginia State being stripped of their eligibility to be selected to advance into playoffs.

“It’s very unfortunate that that happened at a celebration event,” Mihalik said. “Without knowing the specifics behind it, it’s tough to say what actually happened. I don’t think Virginia State being banned helped

us in any way. We would have been selected regardless because of our strength in schedule.”

Johnson suffered injuries to his head, back and ribs during the assault.

Despite the injuries, Johnson, while wearing sunglasses to conceal the cuts below his bruised right eye, announced at a press conference Monday Nov. 18 that he is confident he will play against Slippery Rock.

If he plays, Johnson will go headto-head against PSAC-West Offensive Player of the Year senior quarterback Nigel Barksdale.

“Getting that award means a lot,” Barksdale said. “I worked hard to come back from an ACL tear. I took care of the mental half of the game during the offseason so I could really understand the plays. To come back and break all these record and win these awards says a lot about my offensive line and receivers as well.”

No matter who starts at quarterback for WSSU, they will have to face a Rock defense that is welcoming back redshirt senior linebacker Quindell Dean onto the field.

Dean was forced to miss the PSAC title game after a targeting penalty was called on him during the game against Seton Hill Nov. 9.

“I’m truly blessed to get this opportunity,” Dean said. “Never in a million years did I think I would receive a call for targeting, but I did. I felt like I let my team down because I couldn’t play last week.”

Dean has been one of SRU’s top defensive players, totaling 71 tackles on the season, 40 of which were solo, as well as one interception.

“My brothers all came to me and told me to keep my head up and that I would get to play again and I kept believing them,” Dean said. “Now we’re about to play for a chance to move closer to the national championship. I know my Rock boys won’t let this opportunity pass.”

Mihalik said he’s ready to have the senior captain get back on the field.

“It’s definitely a plus to have Quindell back,” Mihalik said. “The players, coaches and everyone are all happy to have him back. He’s one of the leaders and he’s a playmaker.”

Slippery Rock’s offense hope to battle against Winston-Salem by putting up numbers similar to what they have all season.

On average, SRU posts 566.2 total

offensive yards per game, 372.55 passing yards and 193.6 rushing yards.

“All we needed was a chance,” Barksdale said. “I’m taking the loss to Bloomsburg as a blessing in disguise.

This chance going into the playoffs is what we wanted. We have to take advantage of it.”

Mihalik has confidence in his offense’s ability to put up numbers but feels there are still issues to address before Saturday’s game.

“Our offense can handle whatever situation comes our way,” Mihalik said.

“But we can’t have turnovers. We have to eliminate them.”

Barksdale, redshirt senior wide receiver John Schademan and redshirt freshman offensive tackle Cory Tucker were selected to the First Team Offense of the All-PSAC West.

Dean, redshirt senior defensive linemen Derek Walker and Tony Papley, senior linebacker Gary Allen, redshirt senior defensive back Anthony Saunders, junior defensive back Austin Miele, and senior punter James McCombie were selected to the First Team Defense.

Slippery Rock also had five players make the All-PSAC West Second Team.

Redshirt junior running back Teddy Blakeman, redshirt freshman running back Shamar Greene, junior tight end Julian Harrell, sophomore wide receiver Jaimire Dutrieuille and junior defensive lineman Matt Peacock were selected to represent SRU. The Green and White will hope to rebound from their setback against Bloomsburg and make a stand in the national playoffs.

“We’re all very excited,” Dean said.

“The Rock is going to shock the world.”

The winner of the game between Winston-Salem and Slippery Rock will head to No. 1 seed Shepherd University Nov. 30.

“It’s a one game season now,” Mihalik said. “Win and continue, it’s all on the line. It will be a very physical football game.”

November 22, 2013

Women's soccer set to play Cal-U Continued from Page C 1

their socks off for us.”

Impey finished the game with the initial goal of the contest and the assist on the goahead, game-winning goal.

“Impey brings that veteran experience so to speak. She reads the game very well,” Herlihy said. “She is passionate about the game and loves to play. Her and Izabel Scott do a very good job of supporting the freshman starters at the back.”

The women’s squad travels to the College of St. Rose in Albany, NY. Friday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. to face PSACWest rival California University of Pa. for the Atlantic Region title.

“My exp ectations for Friday are just like any other game and that is to get a win,” Impey said. “Cal-U, in all fairness to them, is on an unbelievable 19game winning streak and we are the only team that has beat them this year. We can most definitely do it again.”

Cal-U defeated the

Ku t z t o w n G o l d e n Bears 6-1 in the second round.

“There is no surprise that Cal-U is the number one in the region since they have gone on this amazing run,” Herlihy said. “We beat them the last three times we have played them. It’s going to be a great game. We are going in prepared and full of confidence.

They aren’t going to be looking forward to playing us, they know we aren’t going to be any pushovers.”

The winner of Friday’s regional match will play in Sunday’s NCAA quarterfinal game against the winner of the East region duel between first seed St. Rose College and second seed American International College.

In Slippery Rock’s past two trips to the NCAA tournament they have been unable to advance past the third round, falling to Cal-U in 2011 and West Chester University in 2012. The winner of Sunday’s quarterfinal game will earn a trip to Evans, GA and compete in the NCAA Division II Final Four.

SPORTS

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SRU falls to Millersville

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

Junior defender Declan Brennan consoles junior midfielder Brandon Chiu following the loss to Millersville University in the NCAA playoffs. Chiu recorded the Rock’s only goal of the game in the 2-1 loss.

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“I think we played really well, and deserved to win, but that’s just the way it goes sometimes,” Donnelly said.

Millersville junior goalkeeper Brad Benzing had one save in the game, while SRU senior goalkeeper Joe Agerskow had eight saves.

Millersville held the advantage with 11-5 in shots on goal and17-14 in total shots. However, SRU had a 6-5 edge over Millersville in corner kicks.

The Green and White had their season ended shortly after becoming the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Champions last week.

Boylan said his team had a great season, and

that winning the PSAC championship was a big accomplishment for him and his teammates.

“We won the PSAC title, which is something that we set out to do in the beginning of the year,” Boylan said. “Yes, we lost in the first round of the nationals, but we won the PSAC, and no one can take that away from us.”

He went on to say that SRU surprised a lot of people and beat teams that no one expected them to beat.

Donnelly echoed his teammate’s comments, saying that winning the PSAC Championship is something that was huge for the team.

“We won the PSAC and that’s something each and every one of us will always remember for the rest of our lives,” Donnelly said.

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November 22, 2013

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CAMPUS LIFE

INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE

Hunger Games La Famiglia: To soundtrack is on fire! dine or not to dine?

Side Notes columnist Harmony Kasper shares the soon-tobe releasing Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack after the movie hits theaters Friday.

Stephanie Cheek takes a bite out of Italian eatery, La Famiglia in this week's Pinch Me I Must Be Eating.

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SRU honors Native American Celebration Day with cultural dress, traditional storytellings

REBECCA DIERICH/THE ROCKET Native Americans performed a cultural dance in traditional garb for the Native American Celebration Day. Tribes that also performed were of Mohawk, Seneca, Cherokee, Ojibwe, and Lumbee descent.

By Janelle Wilson Rocket Contributor

This year’s Native American Celebration Day with cultural dancing, craft making, and a Town Hall Discussion on the misrepresentation of Native American culture. SRU professors Dr. Rachela Permenter, Frederick White, Pamela Soeder, and the Pittsburgh-based Council of Three Rivers American Indian Center joined to bring the event together in the

Smith Student Center Ballroom. The celebration began on the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 19 with Native American storytelling that began at 9:30 a.m. SRU invited local elementary and middle school students to this event and those students were invited to stay for the piece on Native American dance that began at 10:30 a.m.

Jingle Dress dancer, Tehya Wanner, 15, from West Middlesex High School, has been dancing since she was in third grade.

Of Mohawk and Seneca descent, she says she appreciates the way dancing connects her to her heritage.

Dr. White elaborated on the mascot issue “The dress can be really heavy because it’s covered in metal cones, but it’s cool that by bringing the subject of the University I’m the only one in my family who dances of Illinois.

“The University of Illinois was threatened in Jingle Dress,” she said.

Crafters were able to display and sell to not have their games broadcast as a their wares throughout the day. The result of keeping their original mascot. setup included various stands displaying That changed their opinions really quickly,” traditional jewelry, dream catchers, and he said.

Also up for the topic of discussion animal claws. Students were also welcome to participate in crafting corn husk dolls were problems within Native American communities." and dream catchers.

“Narcotic and alcohol abuse is very high Freshman art and special education major Alyssa Pauletich, 19, said that in Native American reservations,” White the social aspect of Native American said during the presentation. “I think the main problem is that they Celebration Day was what are a people whose culture drew her to the event. isn’t revered or appreciated “I like how interactive in any way.” these cultural events Audience members are,” Pauletich said, “I’m were allowed to comment especially excited about on issues they found making a dream catcher. prevalent in modern It’s too often that cultural Native American culture. events don’t go out of their Michael Timo, 20, way to involve participants.”

Junior, safety management The Town Hall Check out this online major, is a three year Discussion took place exclusive of the Native during Common Hour. American Celebration Day. veteran of Native American Celebration Up for discussion was www.youtube.com/ Day. the misrepresentation SRURocket “I’ve come here every of Native Americans in modern American sport’s teams. The year since I was a freshman. My family has Washington Redskins have recently met a heavy background in history, so I just like resistance for the stereotyping that their coming to events like these” he said. “It’s a mascot represents. Dr. Rachela Permenter good way to broaden your horizons.”

The day closed with assistant professors displayed examples of racist mascots on the of dance, Melissa Teodoro and Nola projector in the Ballroom.

“Native Americans are either portrayed Nolen-Holland, as well as Mike Simms, an as savage or as silly, like the mascot for the active member of the Three Rivers Center, presenting on why Native Americans Cleveland Indians,” she said.

Permenter introduced the discussion. dance. The event closed with more displays “My father was French and parts Cherokee, of traditional song and dance.

“The dancing and storytelling are Ojibwe, and Lumbee Indian. “ she said.

“Not only do I teach Native American definitely my favorite events,” Timo said. literature, but I also am a part of a 500-year “It just speaks for itself how diverse and struggle. Education is the key to reverse this interesting the culture is. I hope Slippery negative portrait of the Native American Rock keeps this tradition going.” people.”

Eurthythmics teaches music education

By Jenna Rindy Rocket Contributor

Musical improvisation was explored through eurthymics with SRU's music therapy department, this past Tuesday during common hour. It focused on movement through music, also known as eurhythmics, and vocal improvisation.

Instructor Laurie Jones from Seton Hill University in Greensburg led the group of students through a multitude of activities.

Jones has been at Seton Hill for 11 years, after attaining her Master’s degree in Music Therapy from Temple University.

It was while studying at Temple that she became acquainted with SRU’s director of music therapy program, Dr. Susan Hadley. She said that,“Laurie and I have been friends for many years now. She has even filled in here [at SRU] for me during a few terms, a few years ago.”

Senior music therapy major, Deedee Evans, 21, promoted this event. She is the president of the music therapy club at Slippery Rock.

“We tried to get Professor Jones here last year, but it didn’t work out. So we were all very excited when we heard she could come this semester. She is such a great advocate for music therapy.”

Jones was introduced to her study through a personal love for music, and experience.

“Eurhythmics are a music education approach, it is a way to teach young children about the different concepts in music. But what I experienced was a

therapeutic approach, and was healing for me,” Jones said.

Jones began by incorporating her eurhythmic work into activities for the students. Tasks were given, such as walking around the room to a certain song’s tempo, and clapping the rhythm along with steps being taken.

Her explanation for this was that,“music does not just exist within the notes. If it were not for the rested beats and breaks, it would not be music.”

The students also did a stretching exercise and small warm-up activities.

After that, many simultaneous hand and foot movements were incorporated. An activity was conducted in which tennis balls were bounced to keep rhythm, with either half, quarter, or eighth notes. It was noticeable that the students began to hum along to the music while participating in the activities, which began the second part of the workshop.

This portion focused on vocal improvisation. This first incorporated a simple song being sung around in a circle, and then became more of a vocal practice. All the students became visibly more comfortable singing along as the rest of the workshop came to an end.

Many of the students participating had vocal performance backgrounds, including music therapy and voice major Ashley Criscione, 21. She joined our program at SRU after transferring from Berklee College of Music.

“I was originally a psychology major, but realized I loved music too much to give it up. With music therapy, I get to

REBECCA DIERICH/THE ROCKET Professors Dr. Susan Hadley (left) and Dr. Nicole Hahna (right), led the group of students in music therapy stretches that involves working with partners.

put them both together.”

The way Criscione feels about the program seems to be a mutual feeling with all the students enrolled in it. Each of them seems to truly love their choice of major, and everything that comes along with it.

They all enjoy participating in the MT club as well. It engages the students in

a variety of community and volunteer events, as well as service projects. They are also involved in national, regional, and local projects throughout the entire year. Their organization allows them to give back to many communities by simply doing what they enjoy most, and changing lives, simply through the use of music.

CAMPUS LIFE

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November 22, 2013

Hunger Games:Catching Fire movie soundtrack sets sparks for listeners Harmony Kasper "Side Notes" Harmony Kasper is a junior journalism major and a regular contributor to The Rocket.

4 Stars

The Hunger Games has become a global phenomenon. The first film made enough money opening weekend to earn it the title as the third-largest movie release in North America. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire is expected to double that with rave reviews flooding in.

Before the debut of any major film, the movie’s soundtrack is released. I personally love the soundtracks to films because they usually offer less mainstream artists and music that is directly associated with the film. If you love the movie, wouldn’t you love the soundtrack? So far, reviews have been going both ways The Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack, setting somewhere more in the middle of simply "liking" it. Even with the unexpected all-star lineup of artists such as Christina Aguilera and Coldplay, the soundtrack is questionable on if it will live up to the hype and intensity the film is sure to bring.

The first song on the soundtrack and the lead single released is Coldplay’s “Atlas.” There was a lot of excitement for fans of the band to hear that lead singer Chris Martin and the other three members would be finally releasing a new song after having no new material for two years. Martin even admitted that he was a fan of the book trilogy. The song captures the alliance that Katniss and Peeta have through their whole situation of being thrown back into the games together. With lyrics like “carry your world, I’ll carry your world,” one can understand the relationship that the two characters have. I am a fan of Coldplay, but I do think a lot of their music sounds the same.

They have a specific sound that they stick to,

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS Peeta and Katniss get prepared for training before entering into the Hunger Games arena for the second time. The soundtrack to the movie, shows the intensity and describes the many relationships between characters in the new film, Catching Fire.

and they definitely continue it with this song.

One of my favorites on the soundtrack is Christina Aguilera’s song, “We Remain.”

Comments amongst fans have agreed that this is the best song on the album and I agree.

Aguilera has had one of the best voices in the music industry for a long time. The lyrics for the song depict the world that Katniss sees: “Now we talk about a wasted future, But we take a good look around/Yeah we know it, it hasn’t been for nothing, ‘Cause we’ll never let it slow us down.” Aguilera’s voice is strong and reflects the personality of the movie's heroine Katniss Everdeen.

Other popular artists have songs included on the soundtrack as well. The Weeknd’s “Devil May Cry” is a slow R&B song that’s doesn't seem to fit with the "sound" the movie brings. Imagine Dragon’s “Who We Are” has great lyrics with music that's less harsh from their hit “Radioactive.” Ellie Goulding has personally claimed that her song “Mirror” is perfect for The Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack. Goulding surely has a unique voice that matches the “outer space” sounding music for the song. Although, it was hard for me to tell what she was singing. After looking up the lyrics, I could agree with her comment on the song. Phrases like “Are we

star-crossed lovers?” and “I was the girl who was on fire” directly relate to Katniss and Peeta who are advertised to the public as “starcrossed lovers” and Katniss as the figurative, and at times, literal “girl on fire.”

The “girl on fire” right now in the music industry, Lorde, doesn’t write her own song for the soundtrack but covers the classic “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears. The young artist definitely makes the song her own and brands it with eerie music and her deep voice. One of the characters from the film gets his own song, “Gale Song” by The Lumineers. This was one of my favorite songs on the soundtrack.

The Lumineers have a unique sound that is really popular right now. The song’s lyrics are perfect for the situation Gale is in and how he feels about Katniss.

I know I will be seeing The Hunger Games: Catching Fire multiple times while it’s in theaters. I am anxious to hear which scenes some of these songs will be a part of. As a loyal fan surrounding everything that has to do with this franchise, I know I will be downloading this entire soundtrack onto my iPod very soon. I give The Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack 4 out of 5 stars.

Shopping for those on your holiday list

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

Holiday shopping season is once again in full swing, which means that it’s time to start listening to all of the hints that your friends and family members are dropping about what they want for Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa.

There’s no reason why “the most wonderful time of the year” has to be stressful, and with some helpful hints, your holiday shopping trips should be a breeze. By taking the time to plan out the stores you want to go to, and the items you want to purchase, you’ll be able to save time and money.

Getting a gift for your best friend can be as simple as paying attention to the magazine she flips through at the grocery store, or by looking

at the home page on her computer. If she likes to spend her spare time reading articles on the internet or is always the first to grab the latest issue of her favorite magazine the day it hits store shelves, consider getting her a subscription to her most read publication.

Buying a magazine subscription is as easy as one,two and three thanks to websites like www.magazines.com and www.discountmags. com because they offer discounts on nearly every publication imaginable. On either of these websites, you’re likely find deals ranging from 30-90 percent off, on magazines like “Cosmopolitan” “Women’s Health”, and “Glamour”.

This is the gift that will keep on giving, and will bring a smile to your friend’s face every time she opens her mailbox.

Finding a gift for your mother this holiday season just got easier with the help of Kate Spade. The All Occasions Card Set, which retails for $30, is the perfect present for the woman that favors sending letters over texting, as it includes 15 beautiful cards for every occasion worthy of celebration.

The set includes birthday cards, thank you notes, congratulatory cards, and more, with coordinating envelopes in bright colors.

There’s no greeting more appreciated than a handwritten note, and this card set will ensure that your mother is able to stay in touch with her loved ones all year long. She’ll be able to use the box her stationary comes in, to save the well-wishes that she gets in return.

Transport your father back to summer with

the Mr. Bar-B-Q Finger-Grip 18-Piece Tool Set from Walmart. This tool set is for the man that jumped at the opportunity to work the grill every chance he got this past summer and who occasionally likes to brave the elements for a perfectly cooked hamburger.

The tools are made from durable stainless steel and feature easy to handle rubber grips that won’t get hot, even at the highest temperatures. All of the tools come in a convenient carrying case, which makes storing all of his most important equipment hasslefree. For just $35 you can buy your father an affordable tool set that features carving forks, knives, and brushes that he’ll be able to use for years to come.

No matter how much thought you put in to buying a present for your boyfriend, finding the right one can make a stressful time of year even harder. This season, buy him the gift that he wants, but is too shy to ask for, tickets to see his favorite sports team.

With hockey season being in full-swing, now is the perfect time to buy a pair of Penguins tickets for the special guy in your life. While hockey tickets may be more than you had planned on spending, going to see his favorite team with you, is an experience that he’ll treasure forever.

Make your life easier this holiday season by taking note of the items that your loved ones will appreciate most. The best gifts are the ones that have meaning, and will be appreciated well after Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa.

CAMPUS LIFE La Famiglia restaurant: cheers and jeers November 22, 2013

Stephanie Cheek "Pinch Me, I Must Be Eating " If there was one word to describe the newest Italian joint in town, La Famiglia, it would be "inconsistent."

I tried something a little different for this review; I went to the restaurant twice and got two very different experiences.

La Famiglia is a familyrun restaurant and the décor tells the customers of this fact just by the pictures on the wall and the Slippery Rock mementos that clutter the small space. The servers are all very friendly and are willing to help if a customer needs anything. It is a comfortable little restaurant that sells meals at reasonable prices. For a full meal, most people would spend between $20 and $25. This is a great deal for students who want a break from the fast food from McDonalds and Sheetz.

This restaurant doesn’t stray from the same décor and ambiance from the previous Italian restaurant, Luigi’s, which closed their doors earlier this year.

The first time I went there I was seated and waited on

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fairly quickly while perusing the menu. There was a wide variety of food selections, from pasta, to pizza, to even some different sandwiches and wraps. I decided to stick with the traditional Italian dish of lasagna, which came with a choice of a side. The side choices included a salad, French fries, soup, fresh fruit, side of spaghetti, baked potato or roasted vegetables.

The food came fast and I was eating my lasagna in about 30 minutes along with a simple garden salad. Overall, the lasagna was delicious and a good-sized portion. Me, being the odd eater that I am, also ordered a side of Alfredo sauce to mix in with the delicious lasagna. The Alfredo sauce was creamy and rich; the perfect combination to the savory meat sauce. I enjoyed my meal to the point where I did not want to waste a bite, so I took the rest of my meal to go.

In the same week, my friends decided that they wanted to try the new restaurant, and after having had a great meal last time, I decided to join them. When we walked in, we got the same great service with an attentive server who quickly brought our drinks and took our order.

I decided to order the same dish as before, the lasagna with a garden salad with a side of Alfredo sauce, while my friends ordered a simple wrap and the Cajun shrimp pasta.

When the food finally came I soon realized that while the service was the same the

REBECCA DIERICH/THE ROCKET Carole Iwanejko, a receptionist in the Admissions Office, enjoys a meal with students at La Famiglia. La Famiglia is the newest Italian restaurant in town, that has something for everyone on the menu.

food had changed a little. The first thing I did when I got my lasagna was pour some Alfredo sauce onto my plate, and lets just say it splashed everywhere. The once creamy and thick Alfredo sauce was now very much a liquid and had the consistency of warm milk. The taste of Alfredo was not really even that apparent, the sauce tasting similar to warm milk mixed with some

Senate November 25th at 8:45pm in the Smith Student Center Theater Co-op December 5th at 12:30pm in 321 Smith Student Center

butter.

While the sauce was a little underwhelming, I was happy to report though that the lasagna was still moist, delicious, and a decent sized portion, allowing me to enjoy my food without the access of Alfredo sauce. On the other hand, one of my friends who ordered the Cajun shrimp pasta found that when her food arrived, it was chicken

that she found in her pasta.

Now the question on everyone’s mind: should you go to this restaurant? In my opinion the food has the possibility of being really good, but the customer just has to be willing to take a gamble against the inconsistency. But I would taste test the Alfredo sauce before it gets poured on anything, for future reference.

Despicable Me 2 Show Times: Friday 4pm & 8pm Saturday 8pm Sunday 8pm Extra Show Times: Saturday and Sunday at 2pm in ATS Auditorium

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November 22, 2013