Digital edition 10 16

the rocket

Friday October 16, 2015 • Volume 99, Issue Number 7 • An Independent, Student-Run Newspaper

Heritage In the left image, proConderate flag supporters gather at a rally on August 1, 2015 in Georgia. In the right image, people gather on State House grounds to support the removal of the Confederate flag from the South Carolina State House on June 23, 2015.

www.theonlinerocket.com

or Hate?

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE

GRAPHIC BY HALEY BARNES/THE ROCKET

Panelists discuss the meaning of the Confederate flag

By Daniel DiFabio Rocket Contributor

“Heritage or Hate” was a panel discussion held on Tuesday during common hour that focused on the Confederate flag, which has caused controversy for its display and use throughout the United States.

The panel was created by Phi Alpha Theta, national history honor society, and gathered students and faculty in Vincent Science Center to discuss the topic. The panel consisted of political science professors Donald Kerchis and

David Kershaw, history professor Aaron Cowan, graduate student Tyree Mathis and history major Alex Tabor.

Some background was given on the topic beforehand so the audience was aware of what had happened most recently.

Phi Alpha Theta also did a survey around campus asking students what they thought of the flag and the significance of it. Most students said they didn’t care if it was displayed and didn’t really know what it was about.

Cowan argued that you can’t separate the heritage of the Confederacy from the hate or

the white supremacy that comes along with it.

He supported this by citing various examples that showed the Confederacy was built on white supremacy, including Alexander Stevens, Vice President of the Confederacy, who claimed the institution of slavery and white supremacy were the cornerstones of the Confederacy’s foundation.

He also spoke about a southerner who designed the national flag for the Confederacy, not the battle flag, who thought the flag would be hailed as the “white man’s flag.”

SEE DEBATE, PAGE A-3

Counseling Center Student invents original, trumpet offers new programming mouthpiece heater called 'HotLips'

By Chris Gordon Assistant News Editor

Slipper y Rock University's Student Counseling Center now offers group counseling and counseling specific to LGBTQIA+ concerns.

Group counseling, which was first offered last spring, allows students to interact with others facing similar difficulties, Joseph VanHannak, an SRU counselor, said.

"When peers talk to peers, there's a power there that can be transformative," he said. "I can be a good counselor, but at the same time, I'm 40 and there's a different language that students speak."

Counseling groups typically consist of 10 to 12 members at maximum and dis c uss issues ranging from anxiety, to depression and freshman homesickness, VanHannak said.

Thoug h t here are s ome situations that are better handled on a one-on-one basis, most literature indicates that group counseling has similar outcomes as individual counseling, he said.

SEE CONFIDENTIAL, PAGE A-2

By Harmony Kasper Rocket Contributor

Imagine being at a football game, down on the field with your trumpet, ready to perform at halftime. The temperature is about 35 degrees and it's time to start playing, but you physically can't because it's too cold.

That's exactly what happened to junior music education major David Tini, but he decided to do something about it.

"It was my freshman year in SRU Marching Pride at a football game at Edinboro University," he said. "I tried to play, but the mouthpiece was just too cold. The idea for 'HotLips' came to me from that game."

Tini can now add 'inventor' to his résumé. He said his product, 'HotLips Trumpet Mouthpiece Heater', is the first of its kind. The mouthpiece heater contains a strap that wraps around the trumpet's mouthpiece and a USB cord that's attached to the strap that plugs into a rechargeable battery pack that connects to the trumpet.

With this product, he invented the company Hot Lips Instrumental Supplies, which he hopes to expand with mouthpiece heaters for the full brass instrument family.

"It's a musical accessory that I could not find anywhere

on the market," he said. "Whenever it's cold, your mouthpiece becomes uncomfortable when your lips are on it, so it heats up your mouthpiece, and therefore, heats up your lips."

Tini said the rechargeable battery pack heats a silicon heater that is attached to the mouthpiece. The battery charge lasts for over four hours so the trumpets mouthpiece can stay hot through a full football game.

Tini acquired a patent for all brass instruments, but currently only has the trumpet version for sale. He looks forward to releasing the rest of the instruments heaters before next fall.

"I'm a trumpet player, so I made this for myself," he said. "I'm not a huge fan of plastic mouthpieces, which help, but they don't sound as good, so I decided to develop it myself " Tini did almost everything himself. Since he's not in the business field, he had to do a lot of research in running a company. He previously worked with some business majors who helped him start the project, but currently, he's all on his own.

SEE , INVENTION PAGE A-2

10 Roommate Commandments

Rock Football Beats CalU

Robyn Ochs Educates SRU

A member of the Rocket weighs in on what it takes to be a decent roommate.

Page B-2

Senior Dante Nania led Slippery Rock football over California on Homecoming.

Page C-1

Ochs teaches SRU about differents sexual orientations and gender identies.

Page D-1

NEWS

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October 16, 2015

Park owner offers details P on Grove City safari Catch something exciting happening on campus? Want your Insta-photos to be featured in The Rocket? Just follow @SRURocket on Instagram and use # in the caption for your chance to be featured here every week!

INDEX Blotter.................A-4 Opinion................B-1 Comics...................D-4

Sports...................C-1 Campus Life.............D-1

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

220 Eisenberg Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, PA 16057

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

By Chris Gordon Assistant News Editor

Grove City's safari park will offer jobs and educational programming to the local community and provide breeding programs for rare and endangered species.

Adam Guiher, the owner and director of the Grove City location and Living Treasures Animal Park Moraine, said the new park will offer over 50 jobs to Slippery Rock students and graduates.

"Our current safety and operations manager holds a bachelor's degree in safety management from SRU and has been employed by us for eight years," Guiher said.

"Our organization in New Castle has already employed several dozen SRU students and graduates in the decade that I have owned and operated the facility."

Jobs offered will include at least 12 seasonal positions for students with biology tracks as well as positions in marketing, office management, c ustomer service and animal care, he said.

The safari park is meant to aid preservation efforts and raise awareness for some of the world's most endangered and least known species, Guiher said.

"The Pygmy H i p p o p o t a mu s , B on g o Antelope, Brazilian Tapir and Pere David's Deer will

all benefit from breeding programs and from the public hearing their stories," Guiher said, indicating that the safari will be the only location in Pennsylvania and one of few in the United States to house such animals.

Living Treasures has already participated in university studies for rare species such as the Barbary Lion and Eurasian Wild Horse, he added.

"Elk and top-genetic white-tailed deer will be observed throughout the course along with other North American natives," Guiher said of the 30-acre North American section of the safari, which will feature a four stage zip-line tour.

Guiher said the safari project has support from all involved government officials and is set to exceed the expectations of the two main zoological trade associations in the United States, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Zoological Association of America.

"Since purchasing the New Castle facility in 2005, we have rebuilt the entire facility to meet and exceed these standards," he said.

Guiher said that he is currently preparing an accreditation application for both of his facilities and believes that, after a review process, both will be recognized by the ZAA. "I have personally been elected as a professional m emb er of t he Z AA,

which is the highest level of membership in the organization," he added.

Guiher said he felt more information regarding the track record of his facilities should have been covered in The Rocket's Sept. 24 article, entitled "Safari park to open in Grove City."

"The facts clearly show our facility is independent of the second Living Treasures and covering that facility's USDA report without covering our facility's inspection reports, which are available online, does not fairly represent the track record of our current organization in New Castle or our safari park being developed in Grove City," he said.

Guiher said that Living Treasures Moraine has been praised by veterinarians and other zoo operators, as well as USDA inspectors who perform routine, surprise inspections on the facility.

All permits for the new park have been submitted and Guiher is currently awaiting approval to build a bridge connecting the two halves of the safari property, he said.

Guiher said he currently has s ome sketches of buildings for the property and that preparations for the park are moving forward smoothly.

"The safari park will create ideal environments for learning experiences and studies on many different levels," he concluded.

Invention to benefit musicians Continued from Page A-1

"It's just me and it's terrifying," he said.

"It's been a huge learning experience."

Tini has been busy making more of the product and filling orders that have been rapidly coming in, while also being a fulltime student. He's taking 13 classes that fill up most of his week, pushing his 'HotLips' priorities to the weekend.

"There's a Facebook page that links to my website and a ton of people have shared the page," he said. I've also had buyers in Europe asking if I can ship to them there."

The HotLips Trumpet Mouthpiece Heater went on sale Oct. 7. The product is $30, including shipping.

The battery is set to have up to 1,500 uses, and the heater should last for a very long

time, Tini said. The original version that Tini made himself two years ago still works today, and it's of lesser quality than the ones on the market.

There is a one-year manufacturer defect warranty with the product. Tini hopes the lifespan of the heater will last a student through both high school and college if taken care of properly.

"The music community's really connected and it gets spread all over the country," he said. "It went from about 50 people knowing its existence to a couple thousand people across the world, which is really cool."

Tini said he would not only like to sell mouthpiece warmers but other instrument accessories as well.

"I would like to continue expanding it and make it into a business that would be sustainable over a long period of time," he

NEWS

October 16, 2015

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Petition gains nearly 900 signatures SGA reminds township of lighting and sidewalk issue

By Chris Gordon Assistant News Editor

The Harmony Road petition created by Slipp er y Ro ck's Student G overnment Association received nearly 900 signatures and left the Slippery Rock Township appearing shocked at their Monday night meeting.

The petition was a response to the lack of sidewalks and lighting along Harmony Road, ranging from the intersection of Keister Road to The Grove apartment complex, SGA President Logan Steigerwalt said.

The township reported that they repainted walking lines along Harmony and are looking to install lights at existing electric poles, Steigerwalt said. The township is also looking for a state-wide grant to build a sidewalk.

Jessica Johnson, SGA's vice president of student affairs, said that both community members and students were excited about the

petition.

"Those who live in the neighborhood further down the road from The Grove were really invested in this idea and are hoping for change," she said.

However, Johnson said that she is concerned about how long plans for lighting and a sidewalk will take, as winter weather will make the road even more dangerous for students.

"I hope the township can get something in place soon," she said.

Previously, the township had said their hands were tied due to an ordinance requiring apartment complexes to build sidewalks leading to their properties, Steigerwalt said.

However, the ordinance was passed after the construction of The Grove, leaving Harmony without a sidewalk, he explained.

In addition to the changes along Harmony, Steigerwalt said the township is considering an ordinance that would give Slippery Rock

campus police jurisdiction on roads connecting to campus, allowing for greater enforcement of drunk driving laws.

The township is also working on a response to "mega parties," such as the University Village's annual block party, that local apartment complexes regularly host, he said.

"Another thing they asked was that SGA encourage students to walk on the sidewalks leading to the Ivy rather than the road," Steigerwalt said.

Steigerwalt said he and Johnson attended a township meeting in September to address the issues along Harmony.

"Something needs to be done," he said. "This is dangerous."

The township didn't offer much at the first meeting, Steigerwalt said, which gave SGA the idea to create the petition.

Debate challenges flag's origins "If a picture is worth 1,000 words, a flag is worth 2,000."

-Donald Kerchis, politcal science professor

History professor Aaron Cowan discusses the history of the flag and how it is a symbol of hate.

KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET

Continued from Page A-1

KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET

History major Alex Tabor discusses his views on the Confederate flag.

“The Confederacy was really about nothing else other than white supremacy and protection of slavery and the heritage is hate. You can’t really separate those two,” Cowan said.

Mathis said that people from the South should be proud of where they came from, but need to understand that there were three different flags Confederate armies used throughout the war. He said the meaning of the flag is not what someone wants it to mean.

“The original meaning is there and it's always going to be there and if you’re going to wave the flag I would encourage you to actually know what the history of the flag is and where it comes from,” Mathis said.

Mathis said that when he sees the flag, he sees hate and not heritage.

"I think of how the flag means segregation and means we are not equal to each other,” he said.

Kershaw mentioned the time after the Civil War where the National Democrats became the party of civil rights and Republicans used white racial resentment to gain office.

“So this isn’t just about a flag its kind of a long history of using symbols and language for political gain,” Kershaw said.

Kerchis discussed the topic in a way that made it more of a moral and ethical question for reflection.

He talked about the power of symbolism flags contain. He said flags have a meaning and that when one looks at a flag they’re filled with passion and an emotional force tied to nationalism or regionalism.

“If a picture is worth 1,000 words, a flag is worth 2,000,” Kerchis said.

Kerchis wants to recognize the symbolic nature of any flag and believes it can’t be taken lightly. He said rights are tricky, with even freedom of speech restricted to some extent.

“Having the right to do something does not mean that doing it is right. We need to think about our fellow citizens and our common humanity. We need to combine respect and sensitivity,” Kerchis said.

Tabor covered usage of the flag and how it was flown on the U.S.S. Columbia during World War II and raised over Shuri Castle in Okinowa. It was also used by the Dixiecrats and the KKK, along with being used to protest the desegregation of schools.

“We’re told the Confederate flag represents heritage not hate, but why should we celebrate a heritage grounded in hate a heritage whose reason for existence was the exploitation and debasement of a significant number of its own population,” Tabor said.

After each panelist had spoken the discussion took questions from students in the audience.

Questions consisted of whether the flag should be banned and how it should be dealt with to make sure the flag isn’t flown in the future. Both Tabor and Kerchis agreed that education was the best way to deal with it.

“I hope that eventually we’ll create some people who are more educated or less ignorant or more sensitive or more caring and respectful and so fourth. You don’t legislate morality and value,” Kerchis said.

Phi Alpha Theta is planning more events this year, their goal being to educate about what’s going on right now with the current generation.

Confidential space provides safe environment for students Continued from Page A-1

LGBTQIA+ counseling, which is new this semester, is not only designed to assist students dealing with issues of sexual identity, but is also available to any student seeking help in dealing with a related concern, VanHannak said.

"Some students may have a friend or family member that is adjusting to a new

identity and they may seek counseling as a result of that," he said.

Balancing religious beliefs with sexual identity is another facet of LGBTQIA+ counseling, VanHannak said, as well as helping students become allies to their peers.

"This program is designed to allow students to dip their toes in the water," he said.

"You can show up once and

never come back or you can stay and make something of the group."

The Student Counseling Center worked in conjunction with RockOUT, SRU's LGBTQIA+ student organization, to create the LGBTQIA+ counseling program, with the goal of offering something that wasn't already available on campus, VanHannak said.

"This is a confidential space," he added. "We never confirm nor deny that anyone is receiving our services."

Other services traditionally offered by the Student Counseling Center include individual and couples counseling, coping assistance, emergenc y appointments for crisis situations and referrals

for high-level concerns, VanHannak said.

"We're interested in what students want from us," he said. "These new programs are a response to that."

Students seeking counseling services can find the Student Counseling Center in 118 Rhoads Hall and fill out an appointment request form.

NEWS

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October 18, 2015

POLICE BLOTTER Campus October 1- Christian Tuel, 19, was arrested on a warrant originating in Ohio and was taken to the Butler County Jail.

October 1- Police booted a car in the Founder's Lot for unpaid parking tickets.

October 1- Police took a report for a stolen cell phone in the Student Center. The case is under investigation.

October 2- Police took a report of an unknown person damaging a street sign along West Lake Lane. The case is under investigation.

October 2- Police were called for a person who injured their foot on a piano in Swope Music Hall. A friend transported them to the hospital.

October 4- Jacob Hopper, 19, was charged with an alcohol violation after failing a breathalyzer test once being stopped for running a North Road stop sign.

October 5- Liam Mcelhoes, 19, was charged with a drug violation after his CA reported the smell of marijuana in Building E. October 8- Mariah Trautman, 19, was charged with a drug violation after police observed her smoking marijuana outside of Watson Hall.

October 9- Police were called for an alcohol violation in the Lower Stadium Lot. The case was referred to student standards.

ROCK NOTES

October 10- Police and an ambulance were called for an intoxicated person in Building F. The person was transported to the hospital.

September 25- Anthony Gagliani and Kyle Kite were cited for disorderly house after officers received a noise complaint for their apartment.

October 11- Cruz Micucci, 18, and Austin Hayes, 18, were charged with alcohol violations following a call for an assault.

September 26- Sean Rothey was arrested for suspected drunk driving. Charges are pending.

October 11- Police observed an unconscious person in the driver's seat of a car parked in the West Lake Lot. An ambulance transported them to the hospital. Charges are pending.

October 12- Police were called for a stolen bike at Boozel Dining Hall. The case is under investigation.

October 13- Police were called for a fight at the ARC. The case is under investigation.

October 14- Police were called for a person having a seizure in Building D. The person was transported to the hospital by a friend after refusing ambulance care.

Borough September 18- Cathy Neff was charged with theft after an incident at Dollar General.

September 20- Brandan Bonzo was arrested for drunk driving, fleeing and eluding, careless driving and other traffic violations after being stopped along West Water Street.

September 24- Jordan Teyssier was arrested for drunk driving after being stopped along Kiester Road.

Weekly Planetarium Shows Vincent Science Center Planetarium offers a different show every week. Admission is free and the show starts at 8 p.m.

Musical Theatre Society Hosts Auditions for Caberet The Musical Theatre Society will be hosting auditions for their upcoming holiday caberet. The auditions will be held on Oct. 20 and Oct. 21 and start at 6 p.m. in Swope 135. Students who are interested must sign up in advance by contacting Karleigh Santry at kes1243@ sru.edu.

September 26- Cody Sevcik was cited for underage drinking along Cornish Drive.

September 26- Maxwell Strotman was cited for disorderly house in lieu of an alcohol violation along Cornish Drive.

September 27- Bryce Groh was cited for disorderly house in lieu of an alcohol violation along Grove City Road.

September 29- Derrick Hetrick was charged with open lewdness after an incident along Grove City Road.

October 2- Police were called to Gateway Park for a male breaking a windshield out of a parked car. The case is under investigation.

October 3- Shane Lackey was cited for disorderly house in lieu of an alcohol violation along Grove City Road.

October 5- Matthew Paulak was cited for disorderly conduct in lieu of a drug charge along Franklin Street.

Compiled by Chris Gordon

To submit a Rock Note please send your announcement by 6 p.m. Wednesday to Haley Barnes at hmb1006@sru.edu or to rocket.news@sru.edu. The Rocket does not guarantee that all requests will be published in the paper.

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B-3

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Slippery Rock University is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Dance.

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A member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education

A-6

October

ll Roads Lead to the Rock. Students, alumni, and townies came to celebrate in Slippery Rock's annual festivities including the pep rally, parade, and celebrate the big win at the football game.

A

Alexis Simonetti walks alongside Kappa Sigma an

Senior running back, Julian Durden, attempts to break free from a Vulcan defender in SRU's 56-21 Homecoming victory over Cal U.

Students race with pantyhoses on their heads to knock down waterbottles during the Pep Rally in the ARC.

Taylor Schultz runs to hug Alumni, Ryan Dietrich, after not seeing him since graduation last May.

16, 2014

A-7

nd Alpha Xi Delta's float during the parade Saturday morning. Ryan Caldwall sits on the float that was based on the Pixar's movie Up.

Casey Vandergrift is emotional after receiving her crown from the former Homecoming Queen, Katie Hill.

Shane Sanders proudly holds up his cheer megaphone after being announced Homecoming King.

Pictures and Design: Rebecca Dietrich/ Photo Editor

O

OPINION

Our View Representing heritage should never inspire hate

OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 99, Number 7

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 Janelle Wilson

Editor-in-Chief

Haley Barnes

News Editor

Amber Cannon

Campus Life Editor

Ryan Barlow

Sports Editor GRAPHIC BY REBECCA DIETRICH/ THE ROCKET

Rebecca Dietrich Shelby Stearns

Photo Editor Copy/ Web Editor

Chris Gordon

Assistant News Editor

Emma Pfeifer

Assist. Campus Life Editor

Cody Nespor

Assistant Sports Editor

Kendall Scott

Assistant Photo Editor

Victoria Davis

Assist. Copy/Web Editor

Emily Brown

Multimedia Reporter

Mark Zeltner

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 Rocket receives approximately 5 percent of its funding from the SGA Student Activity fee paid each semester by students. All other income is provided through the sale of advertising.

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

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

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.

The confederate flag can be seen in a multitude of places in our town, flying on houses and on trucks, as well as plastered on students’ Facebook pages.

They are displayed despite the fact that we are five hours and over 200 miles away from the Mason-Dixon line.

Before launching our staff ’s opinion about the flag, we thought it was necessary to give a little history behind its infamous creation.

The flag has a red background with a blue St. Andrew’s cross.

The cross is emblazoned with 13 stars that represent the 13 states that seceded from the union during the Civil War. The main cause of the war was that the southern states did not want to relinquish legal ownership of people that they had enslaved. That is almost the sole cause of the secession, and is what the Confederate Flag represents.

However, this does not deter people from flying and displaying the flag, and some people are even insistant that the flag is representative of their heritage.

Some people whose families have lived in the north their entire lives have claimed the Confederate Flag as their heritage, despite it having nothing to do with their family history or way of life. Their

supposed heritage is offensive to everyone whose ancestors were enslaved by southern people. If the flag-wavers’ ‘heritage’ is asserting their own well-being above others’, then they can successfully claim it as theirs.

It is especially out of place here, but is still prevalent enough of a topic for students and faculty to hold a discussion about it.

Phi Alpha Theta, National Honor History Society, held a debate on Tuesday to discuss whether the flag is a sign of hate or heritage.

At the discussion, the main opinion was that the flag hindered the progression of society, and represented a terrible time in U.S. history.

We hold that same opinion, and think that the Confederate Flag is a sign of hate.

This being said, those who wish to are still welcome to cling to one of the last remnants of the Confederacy.

Free expression is a critical trait of a free society and the creation of a free society was behind the spirit of the Civil War. Most Americans hold Abraham Lincoln, “the Great Emancipator,” near and dear to their hearts and, while he was a significant actor in freeing the slaves, history will show that even he was a racist. So,

In the Quad

most of us have less room to judge than we’d imagine.

It is important, however, that those who choose to rep the Confederate flag be mindful of what message their expression is conveying to others. What one person views as heritage another may view as hate, which can greatly influence one’s reputation. Consider this, would you arrive to a job interview in your pick-up truck with a giant Confederate flag strapped to its back? Most would say that’s not very tasteful, and that decision could even hinder someone’s desire to hire someone else.

The act of Confederate flag toting has also been hailed as a sign of patriotism, which it absolutely is not.

The flag represents the division of our country, both during the 1800’s and now.

One would think an almost 2 0 0 - ye ar- ol d s y mb ol of division and hatred would not be revered as a notion of patriotism.

Others consider the flag to be a symbol of rebellion, which is also a poor argument. It was a rebellion caused by one person’s assumed superiority over another, and our modern age has no room for it.

If hurting other people is what you equate to heritage, then you are the problem.

This week’s question: What was the most memorable part of Homecoming Weekend for you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rocco Vasconi Sophomore Public Relations and Spanish Major Sharpsville, Pennsylvania

“I had a friend pretend to be my mom so I could get into the alumni tent. “

Shayleana Randle Freshman Psychology Major Erie, Pennsylvania

“I enjoyed the entire weekend because I got to see old friends.”

Kaylee Killmer Freshman Secondary Math Education Major Bethelpark, Pennsylvania

“The football game was exciting because we won by a lot and the weather was really nice.”

OPINION

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September 25, 2015

QUESTION OF

THE WEEK @SRURocket

10 roommate commandments you should always follow as time goes on.

2. Thou shalt not make thy roommate thy friend Don’t get me wrong, it is absolutely important to foster a friendly relationship with your roommate, because you will spend most of your time with him or her. But, as soon as your Janelle Wilson roommate comes crying to your Commentary door because so-and-so hurt his Janelle Wilson is a senior or her feelings, or he or she got journalism major from into a fight with their insignificant Enon Valley, Pennsylvania other, it’s time to cut the cord. and is the editor in chief of Being dragged into unnecessary the Rocket drama with people you don’t know is as harmful to you as it is to October is National Hate Your your roommate. You can also be Roommate Month. assured that if your roommate Roommates: you either are comes home complaining about simply annoyed by them or loathe every person he or she was in them with every fiber of your contact with during the day, then being, but unless you have infinite they are probably talking about money to put toward rent, then you to other people too, which you’re pretty much stuck living brings me to my next point. with someone else.

Whether you live with one 3. Thou shalt not bear false witness roommate or five, there’s always against thy roommate an underlying code of honor You will be more than tempted that you should aspire to live to. to turn to your friends or assorted Without further ado, here are the allies when your relationship ten roommate commandments with your roommate heads south; that you strive to follow. however, this isn’t always the wisest decision because things will always 1. Thou shalt not make thy friend get back to your roommate. Your thy roommate home is supposed to be the one While it may be tempting to live place where you can wear footie with your friends because you pajamas, eat ice cream for every already know and get along with meal and/or play video games them, you can be sure that by the for days on end without bathing end of your roommate experience (not speaking from experience, you will hate them. Soon enough, of course) unless your record is every small thing they do “wrong” absolutely spotless, it’s important will send your skin crawling, that you leave your roommates’ whether it be leaving the lid off of personal lives personal. their toothpaste, or not refilling the toilet paper roll. Because 4. Thou shalt not covet thy they’re also your friend, you won’t roommate’s possessions be as apt to confront them on Be it your roommate’s brewery things that bother you, which will leftovers that they haven’t touched only make you resent them more for days, or their new t-shirt that

you’re thinking of “borrowing,” don’t fall into the trap of comparing what you have to what your roommate has. Coveting your roommate’s possessions will inevitably lead to “borrowing” your roommate’s possessions.

Always ask to borrow something before you do so, and be sure that if you can’t return that item after using it (food or drinks), to have it replaced within a week’s time.

what chore when.

7. Thou shalt not be passive aggressive toward thy roommate.

You and your roommates will inevitably have differences. Some of them are trivial enough that they can be slipped under the rug, but in the event that they cannot be it’s important that you talk to your roommate about the issues that you’re having directly. Do not tweet about it, leave passive aggressive notes about it or take 5. Thou shalt not move their “revenge” on your roommate. Just significant other into thine address the problem, and if you apartment come off like a jerk, so be it. You’ll I get it, your college significant both be glad for it in the end. other is probably super important to you, and you’re sure that your 8. Thou shalt forgive thy roommate’s relationship will stand the test of trespasses time. This is in no way grounds to Yo u r ro o m m at e w i l l d o move your significant other into something that will grate on your apartment. Your roommate your nerves. They may borrow agreed to live with you, not something of yours without with your “soulmate” you met at asking, or throw a party when you Sheetz on Saturday night. Moving have a test the next day. No one is someone in with you does not only perfect, and my guess is that you cover giving them a key, but also aren’t either. You are going to slip letting them in your apartment up, and it’s better to have forgiven when you’re gone or having them your roommates slip ups, so that over at your apartment at all hours when you do, your roommate will of the day. It’s uncomfortable, forgive you, too. it’s disrespectful and you should avoid doing it at all costs 9 . T h ou s h a lt re sp e c t t hy roommate’s needs 6. It will not kill thee to do the Is your roommate a night owl? dishes and take out the damn trash Then don’t slam pots around in once in a while the early morning. Does he or she No one wants to do the dishes or shower in the morning? Shower take out the trash. It’s something at night instead. If you and your that plagues us every day, but if roommate plan your days around you follow the golden rule (do each other, then it will make life a unto others as you would have whole lot easier. done unto you), then you would do the dishes for your roommate 10. Thou shalt not murder thy as your roommate would have roommate done the dishes for you. Someone This one should be selfhas to do the menial chores that explanatory, but if God had to no one wants to do, and sharing include this in his commandments, a space can be chaotic enough I thought it wouldn’t be a bad idea without fighting over who did to include it in mine.

Needle Exchange programs combat HIV spread among heroin users

Joseph Szalinski Commentary

Joseph Szalinski is a senior creative writing and professional writing major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Heroin use is a major problem in this country.

The drug’s increase in popularity in the last few years has made for more overdoses, more cases of addiction and more horror stories.

Northeastern states like Maine and Vermont are seeing the worst of it. Due to increased

potency, lower prices and general availability, many young people are becoming junkies.

States have instituted programs where antioverdose drugs like naloxone are provided to first responders simply because overdoses are extremely common.

Another measure states and communities are using to combat heroin use, and the ill effects of it, is needle exchanging. Critics of the program(s) say that providing clean needles only encourages more drug use. I disagree.

Surely having access to clean paraphernalia may encourage some to continue to shoot up, but the addicts are already motivated to continue using due to their chemical dependency. No new users are being enticed by these programs.

The benefits greatly outweigh any negative consequences. Needle exchange programs exist, fundamentally, as a means to combat the transmission of HIV and other communicable maladies. Cutting down on the number of infected individuals is most definitely worth “tempting” already active addicts to continue

to use, especially since those who can be/are affected by HIV are outside of drug taking groups.

Secondly, like I mentioned earlier, no new users are enticed to shoot up simply because clean needles are available. Just because a needle is clean, doesn’t mean other risks of injecting substances are gone as well. The increased risks of overdosing, developing abscesses, and collapsing veins are still looming factors that exist despite the fact that needles are clean.

Drugs like LSD can even be injected, yet no one does so because it is impractical to do so, and other, simpler methods of ingestion exist.

Most people, who start using heroin, do so because they are already addicted to other opiates, mainly Oxycontin. Being used to taking pills, these users typically administer the drugs through smoking or insufflation.

Only those interested in shooting heroin are going to be motivated more so because of these programs. It’s not like the communities provide the heroin to use, they are just making it safer for everyone involved.

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October 16 , 2015

S SPORTS

INSIDE SPORTS

Women's Soccer

Field Hockey

The Rock women's soccer team shut out Clarion 4-0 Tuesday to climb in to fourth place of the PSAC standings.

SRU field hockey was shut out 5-0 by no. 4 overall Shippensburg Tuesday.

See Page C-2

See Page C-4

Football scores around the PSAC-West

56 vs

21 36 at

GRAPHIC BY CODY NESPOR/THE ROCKET

Football wins blowout on Homecoming

By Ryan Barlow Sports Editor

23 47 at

10

16 at

13

Slippery Rock senior quarterback Dante Nania was in total control Saturday afternoon as The Rock (5-1 overall, 2-1 PSAC) dominated California University (Pa.) (4-2 overall, 2-1 PSAC) 56-21 at home for a Homecoming victory.

Nania completed 18 passes, throwing for a total of 312 yards with three touchdowns and one interception. In addition to a solid day of passing, Nania was also able to rush for 59 yards and two touchdowns on 13 attempts.

"I thought our offensive line did a great job establishing the running game," Rock head coach George Mihalik said. "When you're running the football, it makes your passing game better. The pass blocking was very good and I think Dante had an exceptional game."

Nania's big day would not have been possible without SRU's receiving corps, and senior wide out Jaimire Dutrieuille got things going early in the first quarter by busting out a 74-yard touchdown reception. Dutrieuille finished the game with 120 receiving yards.

Senior wide receiver Marcus Carter caught four passes for 88 yards and a touchdown for SRU, and redshirtsophomore Cornelius Raye added three receptions for 36 yards and a touchdown.

Senior running back Julian Durden rushed for 106 yards and two touchdowns on just 10 carries. Redshirtjunior Shamar Greene added a rushing touchdown as well, gaining 92 yards on the ground for The Rock.

Redshirt-sophomore Isiah Neely was also able to 39 yards on the ground.

"We have excellent depth at the running back position," Mihalik said. "We have three guys that we have confidence in running the football. If the offensive line gives these guys just one small opening, they can make big things happen."

As a team, Slippery Rock was able to compile 609 yards of total offense.

Sophomore Titus Howard recorded two interceptions for The Rock off of Vulcan quarterback James Harris.

Junior Deonte Flemmings also recorded one pick for SRU and helped lead the team with nine tackles. Redshirtjunior John Conglose and junior Bob Vernick also recorded nine tackles for the Green and White.

Senior Teven Williams recorded eight tackles including a sack and two tackles for loss. Senior Avery Anderson also recorded one sack and forced a fumble. Redshirt-junior

KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET

Senior wide receiver Jaimire Dutrieuille breaks free for a 74-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter of SRU's 56-21 win over Cal U.

Alfon Cook forced one fumble as well and recovered it with a return for 41 yards.

"When you're creating four turnovers, that eliminates four opportunities for the other team to score," Mihalik said. "Our offense was able to take advantage those situations, leading us to put up big scoring numbers."

The Rock looks ahead to a road game at Mercyhurst University this Saturday in a rematch of last year's Big House Battle in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Lakers walked away 45-23 over SRU, and Mihalik knows his team must be prepared to play at a high level to get the win.

"Forget the record books on this one," he said. "They always play us a good, hard and physical game. Our backs are to the wall and we have to win."

SPORTS Women's soccer climbs PSAC standings with win

C-2

October 16, 2015

(Confernece Record)

Football 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

CLARION Slippery Rock Indiana (pa.) california (pa.) gannon seton hill mercyhurst edinboro

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

Men's soccer 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Millersville mercyhurst bloomsburg lock haven slippery rock california (pa.) west chester shippensburg east stroudsburg seton hill gannon pitt-johnstown

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

Women's soccer 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

gannon West Chester kutztown slippery rock edinboro california (pa.) bloomsberg shippensburg east stroudsburg

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

indiana (pa.) mercyhurst seton hill millersville lock haven clarion mansfield Pitt-johnstown

(12-0-0) (9-3-0) (8-3-0) (7-3-1) (7-4-0) (6-4-3) (6-5-1) (6-5-1) (6-5-1) (5-4-2) (4-6-2) (4-6-1) (4-8-0) (3-8-1) (3-9-1) (2-8-1) (0-11-1)

VOlleyball 1.

EDINBORO

(8-1)

2.

GANNON

(7-2)

3.

seton hill

(7-2)

4.

indiana (pa.)

(6-3)

5.

clarion

(6-3)

6.

MERCYHURST

(5-4)

7.

california (pa.)

(4-5)

8.

Slippery rock

(1-8)

Standings as of Thurs. Oct. 15 at 5:33 p.m.

KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET

Junior defender Lynn Neef deflects the ball away a Clarion offensive player in SRU's 4-0 win over the Golden Eagles Tuesday.

Neef has registered once assist on the season.

By Kendall Scott Assistant Photo Editor

Slippery Rock women's soccer (8-4-1) added another victory to its growing win tally Tuesday evening with a 4-0 win over Clarion University (3-10-1).

Each of The Green and White's four goals were scored by different players, showcasing The Rock’s solid offensive threat.

“They always find a way to compete for a full 90 minutes. Our movement off the ball wasn’t our strongest that I’ve seen it, but they still ended up doing well.” Slippery Rock head coach Jessica Griggs said.

The first goal was scored in the 20th minute by freshman forward Skye Kramer, and senior midfielder Allison Harbart quickly

followed with a second goal in the 27th minute to put Slippery Rock up 2-0.

In the second half, senior midfielder Caitlin Bender dribbled her shot into the goal in the 84th minute to add another point.

Freshman forward Brooke Testa concluded the Rock’s scoring by adding a goal in the 88th minute.

Slippery Rock dominated the game offensively, outshooting the Golden Eagles 24-8, and having nine different players take shots on goal.

“I think part of the reason we do so well is that the girls are prepared, and they adjust and adapt well.

Clarion changed their formation halfway through, and our girls did a very good job of slowing the game down later when we needed to as well.” Griggs said.

Freshman goalkeeper Charlotte Elrod stopped Clarion’s lone shot on goal, making her fifth solo shutout this season.

Her five shutouts rank as second most in the PSAC conference, and her GAA (goals against average) was lowered to .76 with Tuesday’s win.

Slippery Rock now holds fourth place in the PSAC conference.

With the win over the Golden Eagles, they improve to 7-3-1 in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) and 8-4-1 overall.

The Rock will play West Chester University (10-3) at MihalikThompson Stadium on Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

The matchup with West Chester will be recognized as SRU's senior day.

Women's XC regular season ends with third place finish at home

By Cameron Bildhauer Rocket Contributor

The Slippery Rock University women’s cross-country team took third place Saturday in its final race of the regular season, the Mack Cooper Invitational. The Rock hosted the race at its home course at Cooper’s Lake Campground.

Slippery Rock finished with a total of 87 points, falling behind only to California University of Pennsylvania with a score of 69 points and Shippensburg with a team victory of 48 points.

The 6,000 meter race consisted of 11 complete teams and 111 individual runners.

The Rock ran the race without the help of their top runner, Leah Anne Wirfel, who finished first for the team in the previous three races. Assistant coach Janine Powis didn’t want Wirfel to risk an injury with the PSAC Championships coming up.

“With how much running and racing Leah Anne has been doing, she needed a race off for injury preventions for the upcoming races that are more important,” Powis said.

The top finisher for The Rock was Jenny Picot with a time of 23:30.

She finished just a little over a minute after the first place finisher from West Chester,

Amanda Eisman with a time of 22:13. Kaylee Haberkam finished 18 overall with a time of 24:20 and Melissa Rains rounded out the top 20 competitors with a time of 24:25.

“This race was on our home course so it gave us an idea of what PSACs will look like in two weeks,” Powis said. “We are able to practice on our home course making us stronger and prepared for the tough hills that other teams will not be prepared for.”

Finishing out the scoring for The Rock was Jessica Bennett in 21 at 24:26 and Jordyn Hackett in 23 with a final time of 24:47.

Matti Dunham finished in 25th in 24:38 and Shannon Byerly capped The Rock’s top seven finishers with a time of 24:42.

Slippery Rock will get a two-week break as they prepare to take on the PSAC Championships.

The race will be a test for The Rock as they will go up against the best teams in the PSAC but Powis is up to the challenge.

“The long break should not be a problem for our runners,” Powis said. “The team will be well rested and ready to race when it comes time for the PSAC Championships.

Slippery Rock will take the next weekend off as it prepares for the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Championships on Oct 24.

The race will take place on SRU's home site

SPORTS

October 16, 2015

C-3

SRU volleyball falters with two losses over homecoming weekend

KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET

Sophomore setter Haley Defibaugh serves the ball in a match against Mercyhurst on Friday.

The Lakers eventually defeated SRU in three straight sets.

By Jordyn J. Bennett Rocket Contributor

Sitting at the bottom of the c on fe re n c e, Sl ipp e r y R o ck volleyball (8-14) continued to come up short in conference play as they fell to Mercyhurst (10-10) and Gannon (14-4) this past weekend.

On Friday, The Rock was swept

by the Mercyhurst Lakers 3-0 (2522, 25-21, 25-17) in its annual Dig for the Cure game. Though not able to take a set, The Rock had the advantage in two sets, but could never get the job done.

After letting the Lakers take a 13-8 lead in the beginning of the first set, The Rock went on a 9-1 run that gave them a short lived lead.

Mercyhurst responded with four answered points that brought them back into set. The teams would go back and forth, but the Lakers ultimately took the momentum and took the set.

The Lakers used the momentum of the last set and brought it to the second. After starting the set 4-0, they did not allow Th e Rock to take the lead once. SRU took the lead early in the third set, but could not hold on to it. After outscoring the Lakers 7-5 in the final set, Mercyhurst would take the lead on a 4-0 run that the Rock never overcame.

Sophomore outside hitters Leah Jones and Lamija Ailisic did not play their usual roles on the offensive side as freshmen outside hitter Beth Stumpf and freshmen opposite Kelsey Boyle tied for a team high eight kills. Sophomore setter Hayley Defibaugh had a team high 16 assists, while sophomore Courtney Oberlander led in digs (11).

Coach Laurie Lokash said that they are still looking for the right combination of people on the court.

After a tough loss to Mercyhurst, Lokash insisted that they found a more successful combination they would use in their contest against Gannon the next day.

“The change in personnel got us a little better chemistry on the court,” Coach Lokash said. “The major improvement from day one to two was that we made better decisions when things weren’t perfect.”

The Rock lost 2-3 (22-25, 2517, 19-25, 25-21, 15-11) in a back and forth battle against the Golden Knights.

The Rock took a close first set filled with nine lead changes.

They would lose the second set that Gannon seemed to control in

the beginning outscoring the Rock 6-1. The Rock would bring the deficit as close to two points, but could not overcome their opponent.

In the third, set The Rock would take the lead in the beginning, but shortly after the Golden Knights would take it back. The Rock would not allow that lead to last as they scored eight unanswered points to win the set. The Rock would ultimately lose the match, losing two close final sets.

Jones found her way back to making her presence known on the court after not seeing much action the night before. She had team highs 19 kills and 22 digs.

Oberlander trailed close behind with 21 digs. Sophomore setter Hannah Lombardo led in assist with 21.

Coach Lokash said the key to a better performance was eliminating the unforced errors. She said they have a long way to go, but this performance is definitely one to build on.

“In the past, we established a level and then did not meet or exceed that level in the next competition,” Coach Lokash said. “If we can at least meet the level we established on Saturday and maintain or improve it over that rest of the season then we will start putting wins in the win column.”

Looking for her 600th win and attempting to improve her team’s 1-8 record in Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) play, Lokash heads to the eastern division for a win this upcoming weekend.

So far this season, The Rock is 0-4 against PSAC East teams.

The Rock travels to Kutztown University to play Kutztown (4-16) and Cheyney University (1-15) this weekend. The first game begins at 11:30 a.m.

Tennis coach expects improvement in spring as fall season comes to a close

By Logan Campbell Rocket Contributor

The Slippery Rock University tennis team wrapped up its fall season, and looks to be competitive in the spring season.

Tennis seasons work much differently than other sports seasons do. The team begins its play in the fall with several matches and tournaments, but the bulk of the schedule occurs in the spring semester.

SRU Head Coach Matt Meredith had some very pleasing takeaways from the fall season.

"We were more competitive than we have been in the past, but our competition has also been more competitive," Meredith said. "We're still getting better and I think we're gonna be okay, but we still have some things to work on."

Since the season has finished for now, the team will begin its conditioning for the upcoming season.

"We're gonna be working on our conditioning and becoming fitter, stronger, faster, all of those things," Meredith said. "We still need to learn to close out some matches better, and as my freshmen get more experience they'll do that much better."

The team had all around contributions from every member of the team, but several players really stood out to Coach Meredith.

"Allie Welch did a great job for us playing at the six spot, which might be the easiest place to play. She stood up and definitely played well for us," Meredith said. "Tiffany Kollah has definitely come back strong, and has fought through some tough matches and won. This will definitely help the other girls around her get better, they have to play her tougher and more competitively."

The spring season is going to be much more of a challenge for The Rock, especially within the PSAC conference. Meredith even stated that all PSAC teams are going to be extremely competitive.

"The PSAC West, with Cal, Mercyhurst, and IUP who are all nationally ranked are going to be tough," Meredith said. "We have a lot if teams on our heels, with Edinboro, Clarion, Seton Hill, who have all gotten

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

Sophomore Nina Barbano backhands the ball in SRU's home match against Westminster College Sept. 23. Barbano had seven singles wins in the fall session.

better. There are no easy matches, and we're gonna have to be prepared for anything."

The team is striving to have a better spring session than it did in the fall. Finishing the season at a 3-1

mark has set them up for a strong spring season.

"I sure hope we have a good spring," Meredith said "The competition is going to be tough, and we're gonna have to be tougher."

SPORTS

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October 16, 2015

Men's XC places second overall

By Brittany Fagan Rocket Contributor

The Slippery Rock men's cross-country team competed in its final regular season meet Saturday at the Mack Cooper Classic.

The race was held at Slippery Rock's home course, Cooper's Lake Campground. The team will return to this course in two weeks as SRU holds the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Championships.

Sophomore Jeremy Parsons led the team finishing in first place out of a total of 109 runners.

Ten complete teams were in attendance Saturday. Walsh took home first with 24 points with SRU following in second with 58 points. Shippensburg University rounded out the top three teams with 70 points.

"The team competed well on Saturday from what I could tell," Parsons said. "If we could close the gaps between men even a little I think we could have an impact on the PSAC and be in the top three teams. I feel we have the guys to do it, we just have to be more consistent."

Parsons completed the 8,000 meter course in 25:56, with senior Ryan Thompson following close behind in sixth place with a time of 26:33. Senior Steve Green finished in 26:40 and was the final Rock runner to place in the top 10 in ninth place.

Sophomore Jeff Henderson and senior Theo Reynolds took 18th and 28th with times of 27:01 and 27:25.

Senior Charlie Frank and junior Ryan McGuire finished with times of 27:54 and 28:15.2 snagging 42nd and 51st place.

Freshman Andrew Maxwell and senior Connor MacKelvey were close behind in 52nd and 67th place. Junior Steve Shephard and Josh Aultz were the final two Rock finishers at 67th and 74th place.

"I think our men's team competed very well this past Saturday," assistant coach and former Rock runner Janine Powis said. "It is a good warm up to see what the PSAC race will be like. The good thing about our team this season is our middle pack which is rather PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN PAPA close during races. This allows them to work together during the race and help push one Sophomore Jeremy Parsons leads SRU in the SRU Invitational on Sept. 18 at its home course at Cooper's Lake Campground. The Mack another. The order of our men's team has Cooper Invitational took place at the same course. been different every race thus far which shows for the PSAC Championship race at Cooper's Edinb oro and Indiana University of everyone is improving."

Lake Campground.

Pennsylvania. The Rock was chosen to finish The Rock will rest this coming weekend and The team will be looking to close the gap fifth in the PSAC in the pre-season coaches return to competition on Saturday October 24 on top teams like Lock Haven, Shippensburg, poll.

Field hockey shut out 5-0 by Raiders all season and was again outshot by their opponent in this game. The Raiders totaled 16 shots, 12 on goal, while The Green and White only managed four total shots, three on goal. On the season The Rock is being outshot by opponents 159-207 and is averaging less than two goals per game. Shippensburg also held the advantage in penalty corners 8-3.

The Raiders' goalie, Taylor Webster, made three saves to earn the win and record her fourth individual shutout of the year.

Junior forward Megan McKay continues to be the best offensive player for Slippery Rock, taking three of the four total shots in the game against Shippensburg and leading the team in all offensive categories.

McKay continues to rank high among other PSAC scorers, ranking third in the conference in both goals with 12 and points with 29.

"Megan is a really good player and she's been killing it by scoring all of those goals," junior midfielder Renee Rosenblum said. "If she keeps up then I feel like we'll keep getting big wins.

If we keep working together and keep getting her the ball and she keeps REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET scoring we'll do really well."

Junior forward Megan McKay takes a shot against Shippensburg University on Tuesday. McKay recorded three of Slippery Rock's four shots and had two shots on goal.

Slippery Rock will be on the road for its next game against Mercyhurst Th e loss drops SRU's record to 5-9 scoreless for the remainder of the fi rst University before returning home to

By Cody Nespor overall and 2-5 in the Pennsylvania half and for the entire second half.

Mihalik-Thompson Stadium to take Assistnat Sports Editor State Athletic Conference (PSAC).

DuMars recorded nine saves in the on the West Chester for senior day on The lone goal was scored with nine loss while sophomore defensemen, Oct. 24. and a half minutes left in the first half Kayla Mack and Cortlyn Van Deutsch, "We have a couple big games coming For the second time this season, the when Shippensburg junior Katelyn were each credited with a defensive up and I really believe we have a chance Slippery Rock field hockey team was Grazan received a pass inside the box save. The defensive save was Mack's to win them," Rosenblum said. "I really shut out by the Shippensburg Raiders. and sent the ball past senior Rock fourth on the year and Van Deutsch's believe we have a chance to make the After losing 5-0 at Shippensburg on goaltender Carlee DuMars. This first. DuMars now ranks third among playoffs as long as we work together Sept. 25, The Rock was shut out at would prove to be the eventual game- PSAC goalies with 96 saves. Slippery as a team." home on Tuesday by a score of 1-0. winning goal as both teams went Rock has struggled to generate shots

October 16, 2015

SPORTS

C-5

Men's soccer drops match at Le Moyne College

By Cody McCullough Rocket Contributor

The Slipp er y Ro ck Men's Soccer team came out hot against Le Moyne on Tuesday, when they scored the first goal at the 16:10 mark in the first half, but couldn't hold the momentum and eventually lost to Le Moyne by a final of 3-1.

The loss dropped SRU's record to 8-5.

Slippery Rock struck first, when the ball off the foot of Ryan Lutke found the back of the net, giving him his team-leading seventh goal. Those seven goals rank him fourth in all of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.

His goal was assisted by Peter Boylan. Boylan's assist was his fourth of the season, a career high, and his four assists are the fifth most in the PSAC this season.

That goal was not enough, and Le Moyne found the back of the net twice in the final 10 minutes of the first half, to give them a 2-1 lead. More of the same happened in the second half where Le Moyne controlled the second half.

They finally found the back of the net in the 76th minute to give themselves a 3-1 lead. SRU was unable to record a shot in the final 14 minutes, and ultimately lost the game.

"We did some good stuff," SRU coach Andy Hoggarth said. "We just lost the momentum we had after we scored the first goal."

Not helping their own cause, The Rock were outmatched in every category. Le Moyne held the advantage in shots (12-7), shots on goal (5-4) and corner kicks (4-2). Hoggarth doesn't think his defense needs to tighten up after

KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET

Junior midfielder Josh Allman fights for the ball against a Notre Dame College player on Sept. 30. Allman has one assist on the season and six total shot attempts.

allowed goaltender Kyle Hoffer to be peppered with shots.

"Our defense has been the strong point all season," Hoggarth said. "There will always be those days that another team is going to challenge you. Tuesday was one of those days."

The Rock had seven shots of their own, with four of those on goal, by Lutke, Peter Boylan, Justin Minda and Aaron Lambert.

Hoggarth wants more shots on goal going forward.

He said that a big key to winning a key conference game against West Chester on Saturday is to capitalize on chances they are creating for themselves. He says that his team is continuing to create chances, but now they need to take them.

The big change he says his team needs to make going forward is

organization.

"We need to ensure that we are more organized," Hoggarth said.

"We need to make sure we are cognizant of what they are going to do."

The Rock will look to take the advice of their coach and get back to their winning ways when they host West Chester at 12 p.m.

Saturday, at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium.

C

CAMPUS LIFE

INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE

From The Subway To The Big Time

Homecoming King And Queen Crowned

'America's Got Talent' finalist, Alice Tan Ridley, shares her life journey on how she went from singing in the New York Subway to preparing to release her first album.

Shane Sanders and Kaci Vandergrift win the title of Homecoming king and queen and share some advice for students who wish to run in the future.

See Page D-3

See Page D-3

FMLA takes back the night

By Nina Bracci Rocket Contributor

The Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance (FMLA) held their Take Back the Night event on Tuesday in order to raise awareness of sexual assaults and interpersonal violence.

The event welcomed three guest speakers to share their stories, which was followed by a march around campus and a candlelight vigil to support the survivors at the end of the night.

Sophomore secondary English education major and FMLA president, Victoria Davis was in charge of the event.

“Take Back the Night is essentially held to raise awareness on sexual violence and to show what a huge impact it has on a college student’s life,” Davis said.

Take Back the Night is a national and global phenomenon which first began in 1973.

Women have marched for different reasons throughout the Take Back the Night events that have occurred globally.

Senior political science major and FMLA club vice president Gabriella Lyons said FMLA’s job at the event was to acknowledge sexual assaults and interpersonal violence and talk about it so that students are more aware of it.

The first part of the event included three speakers who each took turns telling their stories and explaining how the aftermath affected their lives.

“I think the number one thing that people should take away from this event is that these men and women aren’t statistics,” Davis said.

“The whole reason we do this is to show that those people weren’t a one in four, they are real people with real lives and families.”

Davis said the color purple, which showed up a lot at the event, represents domestic violence, assault and the victims who survived it.

“Those three women who came out to share their stories have impacted the lives of over fifty people here tonight who were listening and learning because now to them, they are no longer a statistic,” Davis said.

SEE MARCH, PAGE D-3

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Senior secondary English education Emily Eicher cries as she shares her story at the Take Back the Night event on Tuesday. Two other speakers also shared their story at the event, followed by a march around campus to raise awareness of sexual assault.

Social justice activist challenges gender identity and sexual orientation

By Haley Barnes News Editor

"My name is Robyn Ochs," social justice activist Robyn Ochs said on Wednesday, as the opening words to an interactive workshop for SRU students, faculty and staff. "I use chocolate pronouns, her she."

Ochs, 57-years-old and originally from San Antonio, Texas, presented two lectures on Wednesday to students, faculty and staff: Ochs presented "The Changing Landscape of Identity" in 115 Vincent Science Hall from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and "Loosening the Gender Girdle" from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Smith Student Center ballroom.

During her lectures, Ochs addressed the importance of changing how the world sees gender and the timeline of how far the LGBTQIA+ community has come in the world, as well as how sexual orientation and gender identity work.

During her first lecture, Ochs and the audience created a list of what the world was like several decades ago for the LGBTQIA+ and how it is in the present day. This created an open discussion among Ochs and the audience.

While creating the list, Ochs informed the audience about the difference between transgender and cisgender.

"Cisgender is a word that is recent," she said. "It means people who identify as the

sex they were assigned at birth."

However, during the lecture, the audience learned that there are not only two gender identities, as she had the audience brainstorm a list of gender identities and sexual orientations.

Ochs said it is important that people understand that a person can identify as more than one sexual orientation or gender identity.

"I am bisexual, pansexual and queer," she said.

Ochs described pansexuality as seeing people as a panorama and having an attraction to people in general, but she noted that everyone's definition of sexual orientations and gender identity are going to be different for everyone and that's okay.

"Everyone has very specific recipes of what they are attracted to," she said.

Ochs said in America, people live in a culture where sexual orientation is predominantly assumed as straight, when there are no obvious identifiers for people.

"People who meet me, just see me as straight," she said, recognizing the reality of coming out every time she meets someone new.

Ochs said that celebrities like Lady Gaga and Macklemore have helped change a lot of perception about LGBTQIA+ people.

HALEY BARNES/THE ROCKET Robyn Ochs talks to the audience about stereotypical gender roles on Wednesday in the Robert M. SEE OCHS, PAGE D-2 Smith Student Center Ballroom.

CAMPUS LIFE

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Ask Andi

New support group helps veterans

By Samantha Figard Rocket Contributor

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

Question: Dear Andi,

My boyfiend is coming over this weekend for dinner and I'm scrambling on something to make. What's your go-to recipe that's easy to make, but still tastes good?

Sincerely, Take-Out Girlfriend

Answer:

Dear Take-Out Girlfriend,

I don't think you have anything to fret about. I'm sure your boyfriend will enjoy almost anything you would make.

It's nice enough that you're making him dinner, so he'll appreciate it. My go-to meal is almost always spaghetti. It's really easy to make and it's quick. Grab a can of sauce, a loaf of Italian bread and a bag of lettuce and you have a quick, easy and inexpensive meal. If you're not a spaghetti person, another quick and good meal is tacos. It's different and who doesn't like a good taco? I make them for my friends all the time and I've never heard a complaint. Boys will generally eat just about anything, so I don't think you can go wrong.

Best Wishes!

Andi

October 16, 2015

Students and staff gathered in the Robert M. Smith Student Center on Monday for a Military Support Group to help aid families with loved ones in the military and current students who are in the military now.

Graduate student Kara Werkmeister created the Military Support Group as a way to bring students together who are sharing similar experiences involving loved ones currently or previously active in all branches of the military. The organization will host support group meetings for students, as well as offer volunteer opportunities beneficial towards military members and SRU alumni.

“I wanted to start the club because I personally identify as a student connected with the military, and I know that I've had my own struggles in dealing with everything that comes along with caring about someone in the military,” Werkmeister said. “Knowing that I've personally had a difficult time, I decided to do something to help other students on campus who may be going through similar situations. I had met two or three fellow students who were connected to the military on campus on my own, and thought, ‘this is awesome, but there has to be more of us at Slippery Rock. We should really start a group.”

Associate professor of military science, Captain Joseph Barrow attended the first meeting for the Military Support Group not only in support of the organization, but also as a resource for members in attendance who may have had questions so he could offer insight. Barrow is not alone in his support

for this organization; Residence Life and the Student Veterans Association are also teaming up with the Military Support Group.

“We envision ROTC, SVA and the Military Support Group working in partnership to more effectively support the military community,” Barrow said. “There was a lot of energy in the room and a real sense of purpose.”

Students do not necessarily need to be affiliated with someone from the military to be a part of the organization. The Military Support Group will be responsible for service projects that will benefit troops like making care packages and students with an interest in volunteer service are welcome to participate in the various activities the organization will take on.

“We will be doing numerous service projects for military veterans and active duty service men and women,” Werkmeister said. “It always helps to actually do something, especially when you can't always help or communicate with someone you care about specifically.”

The Military Support Group is open to all SRU students interested. Through this organization, students can strive to “support each other and support our troops.”

“The military, no matter the branch, rank, or affiliation, it's all a unique kind of bond, and the military connected students, the ones who understand what it's like to worry about their loved ones while trying to make it through school, those students are united in a unique way as well,” Werkmeister said. “I just want our students to know, whether they identify as a military connected student, veteran, active duty military member, or in the reserves, I want them to know that we support them, and that they're not on this campus alone.”

Ochs educates SRU on sex and gender

Question: Dear Andi,

My best friends from home have never came to visit me at school for the three years that I've been here. They've always found an excuse, but ever since our other good friend started going to school here this semester, they've been up here five times. Should I feel angry or should I just let this slide?

Sincerely, You Never Came To See Me

Answer: Dear You Never Came To See Me, Your "friends" don't sound like really great ones. It sounds a little odd that they wouldn't come visit you within the last three years. However, everyone has their own busy schedule to attend too, so don't forget that. It might not be a great idea to get angry at them, because it sounds like they aren't really worth the fight. I'm sure you've made better friends here at SRU that you have plenty of fun with. I wouldn't think too much about it or you'll make yourself angry. The friends you make in college will last a lifetime and I'm sure they'll visit you whereever you are after college. Don't sweat it!

Best Wishes!

Andi

Question: Dear Andi,

Midterms are right about the corner and I'm freaking out.

What's the best way for me to relieve stress?

Sincerely, I Don't Know If I'll Make It

Answer: Dear I Don't Know If I'll Make It, Midterms are essentially just a really horrible way of saying “just another test.” Most midterms are pretty much an exam that is so conveniently placed in the middle of the semester. It might be stressful considering all your exams are in the same week, but not to worry. Just pace yourself while studying. Categorize classes by how much you need to study for each, then start with the hardest one and work your way down the list. Midnight cramming sessions are never anyone’s friend, so try to put aside procrastination and find time to study throughout the week. It may also be helpful to participate in some of the activities offered on campus, like fun workouts in the ARC or other stress relieving activities.

Always remember to give yourself a little bit of time to relax.

Too much built up stress will put you behind in the long run.

Best Wishes!

Andi

KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET Ochs says to the audience that there's no rulebook to gender and also that there is not a huge difference between the male and female body.

Continued from Page D-1

"[Being LGBTQIA+] used to be viewed as this very bad, bad, bad thing that a lot of people thought would actually cost you your life," she said.

Ochs said that there is a lot of data that shows that LGBTQIA+ students are having a hard time in college. She said one out of every four students have experienced harassment.

"I think that we should be getting good LGBT education all throughout our lives," Oches said, commenting on the lack of LGBTQIA+ education in high schools.

She said that everyone is going to be working with someone who is LGBTQIA+ at some point in their life and being more educated would be beneficial for everyone.

Ochs said that people tend to forget that heterosexuality is a sexual orientation.

During her second lecture, Ochs presented to a much larger group of students, staff, and faculty than the previous lecture.

Ochs started off by asking the audience when a baby is born, what

is usually the first question? The audience replied by saying the sex of the baby. Oches said that from a young age, gender identity is taught and reinforced, despite there being no rule book for gender.

"People who break the gender roles most are often those who tell us what gender is," she said.

"Gender roles aren't said or spoken."

Ochs said she wants people to know that there are not any huge difference between the male and female body. She said that in the womb, everyone starts out as a female and then sex of the baby forms within weeks.

"We all have the same bits, they just develop differently," she said.

Oches noted the importance of not using sex and gender, interchangeably. She the two words do not mean the same thing. Oches described gender identity as what a person feels in their head and sex as what a person has between their legs.

Oches said she is not preaching for a gender-free world, but that it is important for people to be open when it comes to gender identity and sexual orientation.

"There's so much pressure to conform," she said.

Ochs said she likes to think of transgender issues, as her own issues even though she is a cisgender woman. Ochs said if everyone were to view transgender issues as their own, then the world would be a safer place for everyone.

"There's a whole lot of hostility towards trans people in our culture," Ochs said.

Ochs noted that LGBTQIA+ and gender identity are not the only social issues of the world.

"We are not post-racism, we are not post-homophobia, we are not post-sexism," she said. "There is still a lot of work to do."

Before becoming a social justice activist, Ochs worked as a faculty member at Harvard University for 26 years.

Robyn Ochs was sponsored by the President's Commission on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation, the gender studies program, Psi Chi, the Pride Center, the psychology program, RockOUT, the President's Commission on the Status of Women and the interdisciplinary program.

October 16, 2015

CAMPUS LIFE

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Homecoming King and Queen offer tips on how to win the title

By Emma Pfeifer Asst. Campus Life Editor

Shane Sanders and Kaci Vandergrift were named Homecoming King and Queen at Saturday’s Homecoming game, and discussed what tactics they used to win the crown.

Senior sports management major, Shane Sanders grew up in Toronto, Ohio in a rural, country town. He said that Slippery Rock is a great fit for him and the campus is a great size. Sanders said that he came here because the cheerleading team was nationally ranked and that the sport management program is one of the best.

Sanders was also a member of the co-ed cheerleading squad for two years and he is a mentor for the sport management program.

Sanders said that being it was his last semester on campus, he wanted to do something fun.

“It was so nice to have a weekend where I didn’t have to worry about school,” Sanders said.

He said that his friends gave him inspiration to run and a lot of support throughout the running.

Junior health and physical education major, Kaci Vandergrift is the traditions vice president of the Green and White Society, treasurer for the Health and Physical Education Club, member of the Fit Club, a jumpstart mentor, an athletic student worker and she is also involved in

SRU’S club volleyball. Vandrgrift is heavily involved with the planning of many events within the organizations she is a part of and managing various activities. She stated that she is a big advocate for the student body and also with promoting Slippery Rock.

Vandergrift grew up near the Pittsburgh area and played volleyball and ran track throughout high school. She was also on Homecoming Court in high school, so she said she knew the process well.

“My biggest inspiration was from my friends and the Green and White Society,” Vandergrift said.

She said the Green and White Society nominated her to run initially.

Sanders and Vandergrift both said that campaigning is a huge part of the process and going out of your way to talk to people and making yourself known plays a big role in becoming homecoming king and queen.

“If you are going to run for king or queen you need to let the student body know who you are,” Sanders said.

Sanders and Vandergrift also said that they had fair chances as candidates but that anybody could have won.

Sanders said that students who are interested in running for Homecoming King or Queen in the future shouldn’t be afraid to get their name out and really promote themselves.

Sanders said that he was ecstatic and overwhelmed when he heard his name. at the same time. Vandergrift also said she was in complete shock when she was announced as queen.

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Homecoming King and Queen Shane Sanders and Kaci Vandergrift pose for a picture after being crowned at the Homecoming game on Saturday.

'AGT' finalist visits SRU to perform and discuss life journey

By Amber Cannon Campus Life Editor

Alice Tan Ridley, finalist on America’s Got Talent and mother of actress Gabourey Sidibe, will kick off Slippery Rock University’s 2015-2016 Performing Arts Series on Friday with an inspirational lecture about her life journey, challenges and successes at 2 p.m. followed by a concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room of the University Union.

Growing up, Ridley began singing when she was just a child. According to Ridley’s mother, Ridley said she was singing before she could even talk. As time went on, Ridley began to work with her sister in a daycare. She didn’t want kids at first, but she had children when she was 30. At this time, she was working for the Board of Education in New York City.

One day, when Ridley was taking the subway, she heard a familiar voice singing Stand by Me by Ben E. King. It was her brother. Ridley said she started to sing with him and suddenly the audience parted to let her through. When Ridley and her brother finished the song,

everyone in the subway and out in the during their Brunch & Gospel event and with orchestras and symphonies. streets started clapping, Ridley said.

When Ridley’s not on tour, she said she For over 20 years, Ridley busked in the New York City subways to help support still goes down to the subways to perform.

“When I couldn’t get a job on Broadway, her family. She said it was something she loved to do and something people loved I went under Broadway, and look what it did for me and watching her my family,” Ridley do.

Ridley said "When I couldn't get said. “It helped to make the subway her fans from a job on Broadway, not such a scary the subways place when you’re once told I went under alone and I think her to go on my contribution American Broadway, and look to what I’ve given Idol, but when down there is she found out A m e r i c a n what it's done for me worthy of praises.

The reason theaters Id o l’s age and my family." were made was range stops at because people 28 years old, were busking on the she went to street. People who America’s Got -Alice Tan Ridley had talent showed Talent, where their talent because she made it all it was God-given.” the way to the semifinals.

Ridley said visiting the subway when Ever since America’s Got Talent, Ridley has been traveling all over the world from she’s home gives her a chance to keep in Germany, Morocco and Argentina with touch with old fans and make new fans.

Ridley said one of the biggest her 7-piece band. She also has performed 12 shows at the Cotton Club in New York accomplishments for her this far is her

upcoming album.

“We don’t have a release date yet,” Ridley said. “We started a Kickstarter and the people who helped with the Kickstarter is the reason why I had money to make the album. It wasn’t easy to record the album because it’s very costly.”

At the age of 63, Ridley said it feels amazing to be able to create her first album.

Ridley said it feels great knowing that all her hard work is paying off. She said she wants to inspire people to do what it is that they want to do and to not give up on their dreams.

“A lot of people give up on their dreams,” Ridley said. “I like to inspire people. Don’t just give up. You just never know. Do whatever you want to make yourself happy, as long as it’s not hurting anybody. God gives blessings every day.”

At her concert on Friday, Ridley will be singing hit songs by Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Gladys Knight and The Pips and Whitney Houston. Tickets for the concert are $22 for adults, $20 for adults 62 years old and older, $18 for teenagers who are 17 years old and younger and $8 for SRU students. The lecture at 2 p.m. is free.

March around campus hopes to make student's voices heard Continued from Page D-1

“So when people see those purple hearts around campus, they no longer think a numeral, but of a woman.”

The event had the attendees take posters made by members of FMLA that said, “Stop the Violence,” with which they marched across campus chanting. They walked through the resident buildings and through the quad to allow their voices to be heard.

“The march is important to me because it spreads awareness about an issue that silences people," Lyons said. "This event is all about speaking up and taking back what was lost."

Jodiann Solito, supervisor of the women’s center on campus, spoke at the event and informed all who

attended that different resources and outlets are available if needed Freshman criminology major and FMLA club member, Madison Scofield, said students should be more involved and if they see something happening whether it’s them or someone else, they should speak up and not let it fall by the wayside.

“Sexual assault is an issue that has been brushed aside and it can’t be anymore. It needs to be talked about and it needs to be heard,” said Scofield.

The Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance meets every Monday night at 7:30 p.m. in the Women’s Center of the Robert M. Smith Student

Center.

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET SRU students march around campus during Take Back the night to raise awareness of sexual assault.

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COMICS Sharing Stalls

By Molly Huey

COMICS

Today's Birthday (10/16/15). Good fortune this year comes through thoughtful planning and getting true to your spirit. Writing, publishing and broadcasting pay off. Put love into your work and it takes off next spring, provoking personal discovery. Groundwork laid earlier sparks a busy autumn work harvest.

Prioritize health, family and love.

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 -- Get what you need. Call ahead to avoid running all over town. Save money by doing your research. Find simple ways to make home more comfortable. Draw strength from your roots. Harmony requires effort.

Use emotion for creative inspiration.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Figure out your money today and tomorrow. Store provisions for the future. The completion of a difficult project opens up time for something more fun. Learn by doing. Nobody needs to know how little you spent.

Molly Huey is a freshman dance and communication major from Warren, Pennsylvania

Best in Show

By Phil Juliano

Brewster Rockit: Space Guy

By Tim Rickard

Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is an 8 -- Develop and strengthen partnerships over the next two days.

Work out who will do what. Schedule deadlines.

Negotiate terms. Craft a budget and stick to it. Quiet time together satisfies more than loud social events.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 9 -- The pace is picking up. Keep costs down. Aim for balance... physically, mentally and spiritually. Focus on providing excellent service, while maintaining your health. Take time for food and rest. Use what you have before buying more.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Go play over the next two days. Follow the rules, and use them to win. Get the best ideas from children. Have fun with dear people. Immerse yourself in activities that you love. Romance flowers when you're not looking.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Domestic projects call to you today and tomorrow. Find ways to make your home more comfortable. You can get whatever you need. Look in unorthodox places and find the perfect things. Respectfully challenge the status quo.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Get the word out today and tomorrow. Polish the presentation.

Gather information, and organize your thoughts.

Share what you're learning. Listen carefully. Play by the rules. Results may not look as imagined. They could be better.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is an 8 -- Your ideas are attracting attention. Bring in the money for the next two days. Have faith in your own imagination.

It's potentially quite profitable. Provide leadership.

Shop smart and you can afford higher quality. Weigh options carefully.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 9 -Romance and passion occupy your thoughts.

Imagine a relaxing rendezvous. A quick getaway could invigorate. Today and tomorrow you're in the power zone, strong and creative. What you focus on flowers. Keep it practical. Follow your heart.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 7 -- Rest and recuperate today and tomorrow. Exercise and eat well. Plan your next moves. Avoid distractions and extra costs. Settle into your private sanctuary and recharge. Try exotic flavors. You find answers in the strangest places.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 9 -- Friends provide what you need over the next few days. Quick action makes a difference. In a disagreement about priorities, listen more than speaking. Toss the ball to a teammate. Support them and they support you.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Put in the extra effort. Career matters demand your attention today and tomorrow. Sticking to high standards pays off. Act quickly and make a good impression. Crazy dreams seem possible. Be prepared for inspection.

Add a personal touch.

(Astrologer Nancy Black continues her mother Linda Black's legacy horoscopes column. She welcomes comments and questions on Twitter, @lindablack.

For more astrological interpretations visit Linda Black Horoscopes and www.nancyblack.com) (c)2015 bY NANCY BLACK. DISTRIBUTED

BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Bliss

By Harry Bliss

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October 16, 2015