Big House Battle Takes SRU to Michigan Rock football traveled to Michigan Stadium to face off against the Mercyhurst Lakers in an attempt at winning the Big House Battle. Pages D-2 - D-3
Friday October 24, 2014 • Volume 98, Issue Number 8 • Slippery Rock University's Student Newspaper
the rocket
www.theonlinerocket.com
SRU's 'Ebola Task Force' prepares for the virus
PHOTO COURTESY OF CDC.GOV
Ebola hemorrhagic fever entered the United States on Oct. 10 when a healthcare worker in Texas caught the virus after caring for a patient. The cause for the disease is unknown. The 'Ebola Task Force' has prepared to tackle the Ebola virus in the event that it comes to campus.
low fever. When the worker was referred for testing, the worker tested positive for Ebola. Assistant News Editor The healthcare worker was isolated and still With cases of Ebola moving from Texas remains isolated. outward, Slipper y Rock administration A recent mass communications email was plans and prepares to tackle the virus in the sent out to the university detailing the virus likelihood of Ebola spreading to campus. and how SRU is prepared for the virus in a rare Ebola hemorrhagic fever, better known as case that it does start to formulate on campus. Ebola, was first discovered in 1976 near the Kristina Benkeser, director of student health Ebola River in Africa. The natural cause services, stated that the likelihood of the Ebola of the Ebola virus still remains unknown, virus spreading onto campus is extremely low. although researchers from the Centers of She expressed that the universitie's suspicion, Disease Control and Prevention believe that however, is very high. bats are the main cause of the disease. "Ebola carries a very high fatality rate, which The most recent cases of Ebola have been is why I think people are so scared of it. It's seen in Texas. According to the Centers of scary and it's unknown. There have been very Disease Control and Prevention, on Oct. 10, few cases of Ebola within the United States. a healthcare worker in Texas provided care We have to balance what we know," Benkeser for a patient and shortly after reported a said. "While the absolute risk is considered to
By Amber Cannon
Field Hockey Wins In Double OT Allison Shade helped lead SRU to an exciting win in overtime against Bloomsburg. Page D-5
be very low, our suspicion is high because what you want to do is to try and stop the disease from moving forward. Once we identify active diseases, we want to stop that transmission from going out to other people, so it's like putting the big safety brakes on it." One of the many ways that Slippery Rock University plans to prepare for an Ebola outbreak is by the efforts of the Ebola Task Force here on campus. Benkeser explained that the Ebola Task Force includes student health services, environmental health and safety, and representatives from international services. The task force is overseen by Amir Mohammad, who is the administrative lead for the board. According to Benkeser, the SEE SRU, PAGE A-3
SRU staff and students not ready to ban smoking By Haley Barnes News Editor
A smoking and tobacco products ban went into effect on Oct. 1 at the public colleges and universities of Georgia, including the University of Georgia. Products banned include traditional cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and even tobacco simulates, like e-cigarettes and vaporizers. But with a ban so controversial one may question the spread of a smoke ban to other public universities in other states. Collectively, Slippery Rock University staff and students agreed that overall a smoke ban would be beneficial, but also agreed that a smoke ban would not work on its campus. “I would hope that that was a community conversation,” SRU President Cheryl Norton said. “That they looked at the pros and cons, the needs of the students, the wants of the students and the community, and their willingness to support a ban because what we don’t want is to be in a situation where we think we understand what our campus community, in terms of this issue, desires. We make a decision and then we find everybody not abiding
by it because then you’ve got a policy that you can’t enforce so and the enforcement of this kind of policy really comes because people have chosen not to smoke.” Norton discussed how a smoke ban went into effect at Pennsylvania State Schools a few years ago when a new chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) came in. She discussed how it didn’t work because it wasn’t being enforced by anybody, mainly because the ban happened too suddenly and didn’t give anybody time to prepare for it. She said it’s really important that students, faculty, and the community collectively agree on this together because this is the student’s home and it’s hard to tell them what they can and cannot do in their home. As of now, residence halls are smoke-free, buildings are smoke-free, and smoking within in 25 feet of a building is not permitted. Norton said these regulations are to promote a healthy and safe environment at Slippery Rock University. She said it is important that students realize the SEE , E-CIGARETTE PAGE A-3
Everyone Should Rocked at the Big Comedy Show House Battle Tackles Identity Be A Feminist Columnist Stephani Damato explains why she thinks everyone should be a feminist. Page B-2
Mercyhurst University blew out the Rock at Michigan Stadium on Saturday. Page D-1
Comedian Sam Killerman discusses how humor helped him define his gender identity. Page C-1
NEWS
A-2 7-DAY FORECAST FOR SLIPPERY ROCK FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Times of sun and clouds
A few showers in the afternoon
Clouds breaking and windy
Mostly sunny and milder
Partly sunny and warmer
Cooler; a bit of morning rain
Mostly cloudy
57°
43°
61°
42°
56°
REAL FEAL TEMPERATURE
®
Fri.
Sat.
Sun. Mon.
Tue.
Wed. Thu.
CITY Akron Allentown Altoona Cleveland Erie Harrisburg Indiana Johnstown Philadelphia Pittsburgh Scranton State College Wheeling Williamsport Youngstown
Friday HI LO W 61 46 pc 64 39 pc 58 43 pc 60 47 pc 58 48 pc 66 43 pc 57 43 pc 53 43 pc 66 47 pc 60 43 pc 62 40 pc 58 42 pc 59 45 pc 65 40 pc 59 45 pc
Saturday HI LO W 64 42 pc 65 44 s 62 44 pc 64 45 pc 62 47 sh 67 48 s 62 43 pc 59 42 pc 68 53 s 62 43 pc 63 46 s 62 44 pc 61 42 pc 64 45 pc 62 43 pc
62°
49°
54°
74°
UV INDEX
Fri.
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 59 38 s 60 38 pc 58 38 pc 57 39 s 56 41 pc 64 41 pc 57 37 pc 54 38 pc 63 46 pc 57 37 pc 59 41 c 57 38 pc 58 38 s 60 39 pc 56 36 pc
Monday HI LO W 65 53 s 63 39 s 61 45 s 64 55 s 62 53 pc 64 46 s 63 49 s 60 48 s 64 49 s 65 51 s 61 44 s 59 44 s 65 52 s 62 44 s 63 50 s
Tuesday HI LO W 76 55 pc 69 48 s 74 52 s 75 52 pc 75 56 pc 72 55 s 77 54 s 72 53 s 74 58 s 76 57 pc 73 55 s 72 51 s 76 57 pc 73 53 s 75 55 pc
61°
45°
55°
40°
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
35°
Wednesday HI LO W 60 42 r 72 51 c 65 45 r 59 44 c 60 46 c 73 50 r 64 45 r 61 44 r 74 56 c 62 45 r 69 48 r 64 45 r 61 44 r 68 47 r 60 43 r
P
Thursday HI LO W 55 42 c 60 38 pc 57 42 s 53 42 pc 54 43 pc 63 46 s 57 43 pc 53 41 pc 66 48 pc 57 42 c 59 44 pc 57 42 pc 57 43 s 61 43 pc 54 41 c
Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
Moon
Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
Rise 7:42 a.m. 7:43 a.m. 7:44 a.m. 7:45 a.m. 7:46 a.m. 7:47 a.m. 7:49 a.m. Rise 8:19 a.m. 9:20 a.m. 10:21 a.m. 11:20 a.m. 12:15 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 1:51 p.m.
MOON PHASES
Set 6:27 p.m. 6:25 p.m. 6:24 p.m. 6:23 p.m. 6:21 p.m. 6:20 p.m. 6:19 p.m. Set 7:05 p.m. 7:46 p.m. 8:33 p.m. 9:25 p.m. 10:23 p.m. 11:26 p.m. none
First
Full
Last
New
10/30
11v/6
11v/14
11v/22
Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2014
October 24, 2014 NATIONAL FORECAST FOR THE WEEK TEMPERATURES
Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal
INDEX
CONTACT US
Above Near Below Normal Normal Normal
National Summary: The start of the weekend will be wet for those living in the Northwest. Saturday will bring rain from Seattle to Portland and farther into northern California. Showers will also be found across the eastern Great Lakes. High pressure will provide sunshine and tranquil conditions elsewhere. Showers will push farther east into Montana and Idaho Sunday. A few showers will dot northern New England and Minnesota but they unlikely to cause many issues. Another pleasant day will be featured in the South. Rain will return to Seattle Monday while showers continue across Montana. It will be a nice start to the week from Texas to the Northeast where sunshine will be abundant.
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 73 49 s 76 60 s 83 56 s 82 58 s 83 63 s 78 60 sh 74 55 pc Boston 55 46 c 62 49 s 58 45 c 58 44 s 62 53 s 70 52 c 62 46 c Chicago 65 52 pc 67 41 s 62 49 s 72 58 pc 66 44 c 55 39 s 54 39 pc Cincinnati 65 47 pc 70 43 pc 68 48 s 75 60 s 78 55 pc 62 45 c 61 44 s Dallas 86 63 s 90 64 s 88 65 s 86 67 s 83 58 pc 78 55 s 77 55 pc Denver 82 46 s 80 47 s 77 42 pc 57 32 sh 58 35 s 63 35 pc 59 36 pc Detroit 60 47 pc 65 44 pc 58 40 s 64 56 pc 75 49 pc 55 42 c 53 40 pc Houston 82 56 s 86 56 s 86 63 s 84 67 s 85 65 pc 83 61 t 78 57 t Indianapolis 66 50 pc 71 43 pc 67 51 s 75 60 pc 74 48 sh 59 42 pc 58 42 pc Kansas City 80 56 s 78 57 s 81 62 s 78 51 pc 64 41 pc 63 44 pc 61 42 s Los Angeles 87 64 s 80 59 pc 76 56 pc 76 58 pc 80 60 s 82 61 s 80 57 s Miami 81 71 t 83 68 pc 84 70 s 84 75 pc 85 75 pc 85 73 s 85 72 r Nashville 70 47 s 78 51 s 80 57 s 82 61 s 83 57 pc 71 49 t 68 47 s New Orleans 77 60 s 79 58 s 83 62 s 83 68 s 84 68 pc 83 66 pc 81 62 pc New York City 62 50 pc 66 54 s 62 49 pc 63 50 s 70 58 s 72 56 pc 66 50 pc Orlando 80 61 pc 81 56 s 82 60 s 85 66 pc 85 67 pc 85 67 s 85 66 pc Phoenix 96 69 s 96 71 pc 91 62 s 83 61 s 84 61 s 86 61 s 84 63 s San Francisco 75 62 s 74 60 r 73 57 pc 71 58 pc 72 59 pc 73 58 s 71 54 pc Seattle 58 50 c 60 51 r 57 48 sh 56 48 r 57 50 r 57 47 r 57 44 sh Washington, DC 68 50 s 70 54 s 67 47 s 68 53 s 78 62 s 77 57 c 66 53 pc Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.
Online courses lack hands-on learning says SRU professors and students By Jillian Wilcox Rocket Contributor
The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) is collectively offering over 600 online courses for students to take over holiday break. Students in PASSHE can take up to two online classes over holiday break. Slippery Rock University offers over 70 online classes for students to take over the winter semester, called "winter session." Taking online courses are an opportunity for students to get ahead or catch up on credits, but the methods behind online classes bring mixed emotions among SRU staff and students. Dr. George Brown, chair of the Political Science Department and political science professor with a Ph.D. from the University of Washington, 62, embraces mixed forms of learning, even though he teaches online. Brown welcomes student questions about teaching methods. Teaching a Political Film course in the summer for several years with an occasional online class during the school year, Brown knows a thing or two about what happens in the online class setting. Generally, Brown describes the experience as positive. In his online classes, students watch films about war, which include documentaries and feature films, on their computers and respond to online discussions and quizzes around their own schedules. One concern Brown has with regard to online classes is the opportunity for academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty is often harder to spot online, with students able to see peer discussion answers or look up information on a particular film. One way to spot dishonesty is setting up the videos through D2L. With D2L, professors can see how long a link was actually viewed. However, Brown maintains that most students are motivated to watch and think about the films and while Blotter.................A-4 Sports...................D-1 academic dishonesty does happen, it is not often. Opinion................B-1 Campus Life.............C-1 “I like doing that particular course, but I really prefer the mix,” Brown said. “I Comics...................B-5 wouldn’t want to do all my classes online, that’s for sure.” With the differences in online and face-toface learning, there are considerations for students to make. With an online class like Dr. Brown’s, what technical issues might you Newsroom: 220 Eisenberg Building face? Things like slow internet speed or virus software can get in the way of the ability to (724) 738-4438 Slippery Rock complete an assignment, especially when Advertising: University waiting until the last minute. Additionally, (724) 738-2643 Slippery Rock, PA Brown says an online class might be more work than you think, especially if you carry Fax: 16057 a heavy work schedule during the time of (724) 738-4896 the online class. Email: Online classes are offered at SRU during rocket.letters@sru.edu fall, spring, summer, and winter sessions. While the classes aren’t always exactly the same, you can typically find several liberal studies courses as well as some major2012 Mark of Excellence First specific courses. As seen on the SRU website, Place Winner in Region 4 from the Society of Professional SRU even offers online graduate programs Journalists. and an online RN to BSN program for nursing. Christopher Nash, 21-year-old senior psychology major from Irwin, PA, described his experience with thought. Nash believes that the biggest benefit of online classes is the ability to learn a lot in a condensed
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PRECIPITATION
time period. Still, like Dr. Brown, Nash also thinks that students may underestimate the time that needs to be put into the course. “You usually have assignments every day, so you’re constantly reading,” Nash explained as he referred to his Developmental Psychology class. Nash also emphasized that students should really evaluate how they best learn before taking an online class, since everyone is different. Chris Hays, 21-year-old senior exercise science major, does not normally take online classes, but he has had one in the past. Like Nash and Brown, he agrees that there is flexibility in the online setting. Hays says one of the main downsides of online classes is the lack of direct interaction. “You don’t get that relationship,” Hays explained when referring to the differences of the online and traditional classrooms. Hays believes online classes are good for certain objectives, but they are easy to get behind in because they require so much time management and commitment. On one occasion, Hays did even have a technical issue with submitting an assignment online. Hays said the professor was helpful in resolving the issue and gave him an extension on the assignment. Hays said he wouldn’t recommend an online class instead of a traditional place setting, but he thinks there is a place for them. “For learning skills and hands-on, I don’t think they’re a good choice,” Hays said. Dr. Katherine Cooklin, chair of the Philosophy Department and philosophy professor, with a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin, maintains professional and delicate approach to conversation. Cooklin says she typically teaches classes online during the summer and winter sessions. Cooklin defines the primary benefit of online classes for students as convenience and believes it is particularly helpful and convenient for those in the Medical Ethics class that she teaches online. Since some of her students are professionals with busy schedules, it allows them to balance work with the need and desire to continue education. Still, Cooklin also shares a fondness of the traditional classroom. "I enjoy face-to-face classes more,” Cooklin said. “I think there is definitely a place for online classes, but I think there is something captured in the classroom that isn’t included with online classes. It’s hard to identify what it is, but face-to-face conversation carries with it a benefit for learning.” Cooklin said it depends on the program, but she believes typical four-year students should focus on learning in the classroom. Cooklin added that she doesn’t think online classes should ever take the place of face-toface courses. Cooklin also explained the importance of responsibility. With less reminders from professors and anticipation for technical problems, Cooklin said it’s really a personal choice for the student based on their needs and what they want to get out of learning. “I think the primary thing is their need to be self-disciplined in doing it. I think they need to take more responsibility,” Cooklin said.
NEWS
October 24, 2014
A-3
SGA elects new Vice President of Campus Outreach By Amber Cannon Assistant News Editor
The Slipper y Rock Student Government Association (SGA) elected a new Vice President of Campus Outreach at their regular senate meeting Monday after the previous vice president resigned at their last meeting. J a r e d S t a n l e y, p r e v i o u s commuter senator, was elected as Vice President of Campus Outreach after a thoughtful deliberation from the senate. Stanley shared with the senate what he plans to accomplish with his new position. "I want to work more with the commuters. Instead of going to the clubhouses, I think we should try to organize more events," Stanley said. "I really want to push to work with what's already going on and make ourselves a dominant presence in this situation. Stanley also commented that he thinks the outreach committee
could do a little more work in reaching out to clubs and organizations one-on-one. He suggested that the committee try to attend one meeting of every club and organization on campus to let them know what SGA has to offer. Vice President of Internal Affairs, John Coulter mentioned that he thinks Stanley is really goal-oriented and thinks that he would do very well in a vice president position. The conference grant is given to clubs and organizations to go attend nonmandatory conferences. SGA funds up to $500 for each club. Some of the things that SGA looks for in these applications are how these conferences are not only going to effect the club, but how it benefits other students and their futures. The National Council for Teachers of English received $500, the Preservice Mathematics Teachers received $320, RockOut received $500,
the SRU Pennsylvania Collegiate Music Educators Association received $400, Rock Catholic received $500, and the Music Therapy Club received$200. Baylee Childress, vice president of financial affairs stated that to receive a conference grant, one's application must be strong. "Everyone had decently strong applications. So, we're not just handing money out. We really want to make sure that they have good content in their application and that it's really going to serve the purpose of the conference." The motion of a 3 percent pay increase for bookstore employee, a 2.25 percent pay increase for the preschool and childcare center director, assistant director and head teacher and a 2.85 percent pay increase for teacher aides were passed by the senate. A new app is up for discussion for commuter students that lets you know when there is a parking spot open in the commuter lots
on campus. Although the topic is up for discussion, Cody Moody, commuter senator, questioned if students should really be using their phones while driving. SGA untabled the motion to approve the minutes for their meeting on Sept. 15, 2014 and approved the minutes from their meeting on Sept. 29, 2014. Jaclynn Choma was elected as Rhoades Hall Senator. SGA voted to fail the motion of electing new freshmen senators. S G A ap p r ov e d t h e S RU Beatbox Society as a recognized organization on campus. SGA also approved the Guitar Club as an recognized organization on campus. Watson Hall Senator, Jenna Temple, was named "liter" of the week. The next SGA meeting will he held on Monday, Nov. 3 at 8:45 p.m. in the theatre of the Robert M. Smith Student Center.
SRU staff suggest practices to prevent illnesses Continued from Page A-1
board meets regularly, communicating several times throughout the day. "I think there might be a perception that we just kind of got together in a hurry a couple of weeks ago when all this happened in Texas, and that's not true. We've been working with the Ebola issue since late July, early August," Benkeser said. "Just because people don't necessarily read or see it, it is happening. The university has been very on top of it." Benkeser said that one myth that she would like to address about Ebola is
that some people think that the disease is easy to get. Ebola is not an easy virus to catch because it's not spread through breathing. The way that you contract Ebola is to have direct contact with an infected person's blood or other bodily fluids or the remains of someone who has passed from Ebola. Also, there is a 21-day window from exposure to Ebola until someone c at c h e s t h e d i s e a s e , Benkeser explained. Although Ebola needs severe medical attention, there are several basic practices that students can do to prevent illness.
Paul Novak, direc tor of environmental health and safety and emergency management administrator expressed that the best thing to prevent illness is frequent a n d e f f i c i e nt h a n d washing. "Studies have shown that people who embrace and practice frequent handwashing really reduce their risk of attracting any kind of disease," he said. Novak also explained that the university has made sure to increase the use of hand sanitizer products in buildings and in the restrooms to further enhance health safety. He
also mentioned that basic hygiene practices, rest, and keeping hydrated can prevent illness. Benkeser expressed that one main way that students can prevent illness and possibly Ebola is to get a flu shot. Students can go to the McLachlan Health Center at any time of day to get their free flu shot. If a student feels as though they have came into contact with the Ebola virus, Novak said the first thing that the student should do is contact health services. "The first thing the nurses will look for is to see if your body temperature
is elevated. A student who feels that they have Ebola should limit their interaction with other people and be compliant with every guideline that every physician gives you," Novak said. According to Novak, the university is clearly aware of the seriousness of Ebola and are planning to do everything to prepare for it. "The university is clearly aware of the situation going on and we are responding to it. Emergency planning and preparedness is very much alive at Slippery Rock University," he said.
E-cigarette policy does not exist at Slippery Rock Continued from Page A-1
relationship between their choices and their health because health is all about choices. Norton said there is really no way to tell whether a smoke ban would affect tuition and enrollment or not. She believes there are students who might see a smoke ban as a benefit and attend because of that, but that students could see a ban as a turn off. Dr. Patrick Harvey, associate professor of criminology and criminal justice and Department Chair as well, said that this ban is not a police matter, but more along the lines of an administrative policy with the university. He said there are other issues for the police to worry about. Harvey said the only way to enforce it is by self-reporting and abiding by the policy. “It’s my understanding that it would have to be something that would have to be done from an internal office here like I said Student Conflict Resolution Services or maybe even Health Promotion or something like that because it’s not a legal issue, it’s a policy issue and it is administrative,” Harvey said. Harvey believes Georgia is going to run into issues, as he has read on the subject. He said the law cannot take someone’s right to smoke away, as that smoking is legal and purchasing tobacco products is legal in the United States, but a smoke free environment is the university’s decision. At SRU, a ban like this has not gathered a lot priority, Harvey said. He said it needs to be understood that there could not be a criminal offense for being caught with tobacco products on a campus with a smoke ban. He said the university may reprimand the student, suspend the student, or the university could even implement a fine. He commented on how current SRU students can’t even read the signs and stay 25 feet away from buildings when they smoke. Overall, he believes a smoke ban at Slippery Rock University would be beneficial and healthy, but that it would just not work.
Renee Bateman, coordinator of health promotion, believes a smoke ban is appropriate if given the correct amount of time, but that it has to be enforced in order to work. She said a very small percentage of SRU staff and students choose to smoke. Bateman said only 6 percent of SRU staff smoke. “So for cigarettes, the students that selfreported, 72 percent said they have never used a cigarette, 14 percent have used in the last 30 days, 6 percent used in one to nine days, 2 percent was in 10 to 29 days,” Bateman said. “The only percent who used all 30 days where I would say they’re probably your consistent smokers is 3.6 percent. So I would say you’re seeing two things, 3.6 percent is probably our regular smokers and then the people who use in the last 30 days somewhere along those lines are probably people who were under the influence of alcohol or other drugs and happened to have a cigarette.” She believes that tobacco is declining in popularity due to the introduction of e-cigarettes and the increasing use of marijuana among students. According to statistics that Bateman provided, 7.3 percent of SRU have smoked marijuana in the past one to nine days and 6.5 percent of SRU students have smoked cigarettes in the past one to nine days. She believes these statistics prove how marijuana is prove the popularity of marijuana among students. Also, Bateman said there is not much scientific and health research done on e-cigarettes, so nobody really knows what they are. She said some alternatives, less popular alternatives to smoking are nicotine patches and nicotine gum. Danielle Graham, 21, health promotion graduate assistant and a student working on a masters in school counseling, believes there are plenty of other issues for the university to worry about than just banning smoking all together. Graham said she wasn't even aware that a smoke ban went into effect on SRU's campus in the past.
“I didn’t notice how big e-cigarettes were getting until we learned about them this fall,” Graham said. “It’s interesting how there’s no rules or regulations about it yet, so it’s kind of just interesting to see how that’s going with e-cigarettes so far.” She said the university could enforce the designated smoking areas a little bit better, but that at the end of the day, students are still going to find a way to smoke because a ban makes the action a little bit more desirable. She believes students would find a way regardless of smoking being banned. Alexa Merbler is a 19-year-old political science major and a nonsmoker. She believes a smoke ban could be a positive thing, but that ultimately if someone wants to smoke, they are going to smoke. “Generally, it doesn’t affect me, but when all the smokers gather around the doors, I feel like I’m walking through a smokey jungle,” Merbler said. She said when she was looking for a college, a smoke free campus was not something that she was looking for. She said it would have been cool and beneficial to her health-wise, but that there are more important things that she was looking for in a college campus. Phillip Bova is a 20-year-old English creative writing major and a smoker who does not believe in smoking bans. “If SRU enforced a smoke ban, I don’t know what I would do,” Bova said. “I have high anxiety and smoking calms me down. Also it helps me concentrate and stay focused after long hours of studying." He said a college with a smoke ban would not even interest him at all. He said smoking is a part of who he is, but it does not define him. Bova said smokers have rights and the university can’t just take those rights away from smokers." “Also as a side note, smoking is how I made many of my friends freshman year,” Bova said. “It’s a social thing!”
NEWS
A-4
October 3, 2014
POLICE BLOTTER 19, were issued alcohol violations at Building D.
incident.
Borough Oct. 9 - Two residents along Grove City Road reported a burglary. Cash, jewelry and electronics were taken from the residence between 11:45 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Oct. 11 - Kyle Richael and Erinn Gilmore were cited for disorderly conduct in Gateway Park after an officer witnessed an unlawful activity taking place.
Oct. 15 - Police responded to a call for a pole on fire along Kiester Road. Police dispatched the fire department and West Penn Power to the scene.
Oct. 16 - There was a report of a person taking items out of Weisenfluh Dining Hall. Charges are pending.
Oct. 18 - Rachael Ehrensberger, 19, Roberto Gibson, 18, and Emily McCracken, 18, were issued alcohol violations at Rhodes Hall.
Oct. 18 - Alyssa Fell, 20, Kevin Mulvihill, 18, Nicole O'Connor, 18, Jordan Robertson, 19, and Gavin Woodard, 18, were issued alcohol violations at Building F.
Oct. 16 - Pennsylvania State Police and campus police were looking for an individual in North Hall. They were unable to locate the individual. Oct. 12 - John Kuhn and Kimberly Stabrlya were cited from disorderly conduct in Gateway Park after an officer witnessed an unlawful activity taking place.
Oct. 14 - Graydon Shanor and Brandi McDougall were observed by Giant Eagle management leaving the store without paying for their items. Retail theft charges are being filed. Oct. 17 - Anthony Ruffo was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after being stopped for numerous traffic violations along Franklin Street.
Oct. 17 - Police responded to an ex-boyfriend wanting to talk to his ex-girlfriend at North Hall. The individual was advised to leave campus and not return.
Oct. 17 - Sean McLaughlin, 19, was cited for disorderly house for suspected drug activity at Building F. Oct. 17 - An officer hurt his back while performing his duties at the University Police Station.
Oct. 19 - Cindy Ambrosini, 19, Rachel Gardocky, 19, Allyson Gould, 19, Marissa Lubinski, 19, Taylor Lubinski, 19, and Francesca Mastrangelo, 19, were issued alcohol violations at Building F.
Oct. 19 - Jeremy Cenci, 19, Sean Cloonan, 18, Christian Hirt, 18, Brendan Mason, 18, Matthew Yasko, 18, and a 17-year-old were issued alcohol violations at Building F.
Oct. 20 - Police responded to an accident of two cars along Kiester Road. Both parties exchanged information. No injuries were recorded.
Campus Oct. 9 - Police responded to a call of a female who passed out in class at Jack Dinger Special Education Building. She was transported to the health center by police.
Oct. 10 - Police were stopped on Kiester Road by a juvenile. When officers questioned him, he was transported back to the station and then released to his mother who picked him up. Oct. 14 - Patrick Byrd, 18, Anna Carpenter, 18, Desirae Ritmiller, 19, Cody Schrecongost, 18, Christopher Starocci, 18, and Joshua Tilko,
Oct. 17 - Andre Hall, 19, was charged with disorderly conduct for a previous incident at Rhodes Hall.
Oct. 17 - Police responded to a missing person check. The individual was located later out of the state of Pennsylvania.
Oct. 21 - ARC staff requested police for a person who refused to leave the Aebersold Recreation Center.
Oct. 21 - Police received a call for a twocar accident at the West Lake lot. Both parties exchanged information. No injuries were recorded.
Oct. 18 - Police were stopped along Harmony Road by a person who was assaulted at the Oct. 22 - Police responded to a call for University Village Apartments. The individual suspicious activity at Building F. The case is was transported to the health center. Pennsylvania under investigation. State Police was notified and will handle the Compiled by Amber Cannon
O OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 98, Number 8 220 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 Kevin Squires
Editor-in-Chief
Haley Barnes
News Editor
Katie Ellis
Campus Life Editor
Brian Hepfinger
Sports Editor
Alex Mowrey
Photo Editor
Andrew Conner
Web/Social Media Editor
Shelby Stearns
Copy Editor
Amber Cannon
Assistant News Editor
Janelle Wilson
Assist. Campus Life Editor
Ryan Barlow
Assistant Sports Editor
Rebecca Dietrich
Assistant Photo Editor
Emily Brown
Multimedia Reporter
Mark Zeltner
Faculty Adviser
ADVERTISING STAFF Karleigh Santry
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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.
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OPINION
Our View
SRU blunders in the
Big House Battle The “Big House Battle,” featuring the Slippery Rock University football team and the Mercyhurst University team at Michigan’s Stadium, one of the best college football stadiums in America, was a great experience for fans, but the game itself left SRU fans disappointed at the embarrassing 45-23 loss for the team. Before this game, the Rock had an overall record of 5-1, and they looked like one of the most dominant teams in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. SRU led Mercyhurst going into the second half, 23-17. They allowed Mercyhurst to score 28 unanswered points. The biggest reason for this is the quarterback change. Senior quarterback Jared Buck, who hasn’t played in a football game since 2012, was given the responsibility of stepping in for sophomore quarterback Zack Newsock and starting in the “Big House Battle.” Why would you start a quarterback who hasn’t played in two years for the biggest game of the season? It is one of the most egregious substitutions we have witnessed. SRU head coach George Mihalik made a big mistake in starting Buck, because he hasn’t had any experience since 2012. Throwing a rusty quarterback into a huge game like the “Big House Battle” was a bad call. Newsock, on the other hand, has led the team to five wins in his first year as the starter. Mihalik’s decision to bench him makes us question his decision-making abilities. While Mihalik has been the head coach at SRU for 27 years and typically makes sound decisions, this mistake was huge. Newsock threw three interceptions in the game a week prior against California University of Pennsylvania. However, he threw for 368 yards (32-54) with two touchdowns. So, Mihalik shouldn’t have sat him after one “bad game,” because it wasn’t even that
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET
bad. He threw for over 300 yards, and that’s an impressive statistic. You don’t bench a player after that kind of game. Yes, Newsock threw three interceptions. Mihalik also had him throw the ball 54 times. If a quarterback throws the ball 54 times, then there is a high chance that he will throw multiple interceptions. So, if you don’t want that many interceptions, focus on what has carried you through the season thus far: running the football. That’s what was the most surprising part of the game. SRU didn’t focus on their running game at all, and it forced the defense onto the field for long periods of time. In the game against Merc y hurst, Buck t hre w for 239 yards (18-29) with two touchdowns and no interceptions. Those stats may be adequate, but they’re the
In the Quad
signs of a game manager, not a starting quarterback. A game manager is a quarterback that throws when he needs to, and rarely turns the ball over. He also doesn’t take chances or go for flashy plays. That is what fans saw from Buck in the “Big House Battle.” It made no sense for Mihalik to sit Newsock, who has had an exceptional season thus far. Newsock has also held the responsibility of replacing last year’s offensive MVP of the year, quarterback Nigel Barksdale. Barksdale was the best offensive player last season and started ever y game. Newsock was chosen to be the starting quarterback right before the season began, and he has proved he can be a solid quarterback. He should have had the chance to prove this further at the “Big House Battle.”
This week’s question: Are you concerned about a potential Ebola outbreak?
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.
Morgan Komary Junior, Physical Education Major Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Nick Watson Junior, Philosophy Major Pheonixville, Pennsylvania
Chris Walters Senior, Criminology and Criminal Justice Major Kirtland, Ohio
“No, I think people are making a bigger deal out of it than there really is. There’s only been two or three cases about it and they were in Texas.”
“I don’t really pay much attention to the news. I’ll take on Ebola as soon as I see it with my own eyes. It’s on my mind but I’m not too worried.”
“I’m not personally worried, but I think people should be. Although we are in the US, it’s a 50 to 90 percent mortality rate, it could still kill you even while being treated with medication.”
OPINION
B-2
October 24, 2014
QUESTION OF
THE WEEK @SRURocket
PHOTO COURTESY ROCK ATHLETICS
Didn’t get the chance to reply? Keep the conversation going with #SRUOpinion on Twitter. Be looking for next week’s question this Monday.
Everyone should be a feminist and here’s why rights.” I feel that every human being should have equal rights regardless of factors like gender, race, religion, and sexuality, among other things. Most people cringe at the word “feminist,” but why? When people think of feminists they think of radical, protesting, angry, men-hating females, but that isn’t the case at all. It’s the same argument for any group of radical people—you cannot judge all based on a few. Feminism in its most basic form means you believe in equality for both genders. It isn’t women > men, it’s women = men. Stephani Damato Feminists are people who stand up for the rights Commentary of women and advocate complete gender equality. Globally, both genders have never been treated Stephani Damato is a senior equally. The difference of a few body parts should not be an indicator of intelligence, potential, English secondary education ability, etc. Every human should be granted equal major from Ellwood City, opportunities, possibilities, and respect. The Pennsylvania. character of a person lies in the person themselves regardless of their gender, race, sexuality, and so The fact that the word “feminist” even exists on. To judge someone by any other means besides shows the segregation between men and women who they are as a person is prejudiced and unfair. when it comes to equality. The fact that there is Just because I was born a female does not mean such a thing as “women’s rights” but not “men’s that I should make less money than my male rights” should make us as humans strive for the counterparts or that I am incapable of holding a day when there won’t be a differentiation between position in government, law, or medicine. Simply gender rights—it will just be called “human because I may give birth to a child someday does
not mean I am weak or fragile. It does not mean I am “too emotional” to play a serious role in our society. Women should work full-time jobs just like men do. Both should take maternity and paternity leave from work if they have a child. It is not solely the mother’s duty to stay home with the child 24/7 just because she physically gave birth to the child—the father had just as much a role in its creation. Gone are the days that men go off to work all day while the wife stays home to cook and clean. Even financially, it would be difficult if both the husband and wife did not generate income. We need to stop associating females with the lesser. When someone says you “hit like a girl,” why should that be taken as an insult? Females are commonly depicted as weaker or less skilled when it comes to “male activities” such as sports, and quite frankly, it doesn’t make any sense. Only we as a society can stop sexism. We have to recognize gender inequality and put a stop to it. Whether or not you want to be associated with the word “feminist,” you should want to be associated with the movement. The day where gender inequality is no longer a thing is the day we are one step closer to eliminating human inequality.
LETTER 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.
Why students should vote and four issues to keep in mind This is an important midterm election. There are many issues which involve young people at stake. It is important to vote for the candidates who support your opinions. The candidates for this region are: Democrats: Tom Wolf for Governor and Dan LaVallee for U.S. Congress. Republicans: Tom Corbett for Governor and Mike Kelly for U.S. Congress. The latter two are incumbents and have a voting record. Issue #1. OBAMACARE. Both Republicans want to repeal Obamacare. Do you realize that young people are now covered under Obamacare under their parent’s health insurance until age 27? Both Republicans want to repeal Obamacare but both Democrats want to preserve it. This may affect your vote.
Isssue#2. SCHOOLS. Corbett has cut funding to public schools and State Universities, which led to laying off 27,000 teachers. Education students should take heed. Kelly wants to raise the interest rate on Pell grants. Kelly’s voting record in Congress earns him a zero from the American Federation of Teachers. The Democrats want to increase funding for schools and students, Issue#3. ENVIRONMENT. Corbett favors fracking in State Parks i.e. Cook Forest and Allegheny National Parks. Kelly’s voting record earns a zero from the National Parks Conservation Assoc. Both Democrats want to preserve the environment and are endorsed by the Sierra Club of Pennsylvania. Issue#4. WAGES. Both Republicans are against raising the minimum wage and against equal pay for equal work. Both Democrats are in favor of raising the minimum wage
and support equal pay for equal work. There are other issues important to students. You just have to stay on top of them. As you can tell, I am a Democrat but the differences between the candidates are so important. Keep in mind you must vote in the precinct where you are registered. If you did not register here in Slippery Rock, you must vote were you are registered. If you live in Slippery Rock Township, you should vote at the Twp. building on the corner of Branchton Rd. and Harmony Rd. If you live in the Borough, you should vote in the Community Park building just off North Main St. A bus will be available to transport you to the polls. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Be Sure you Vote on Nov. 4th!! Arthur Richards, Jr.
OPINION 5 tips to actually avoid contracting Ebola B-3
October 24, 2014
Kevin Squires It’s Rocket Science Kevin Squires is a senior biology major from West Mifflin, Pennsylvania and the editor-inchief of The Rocket. “Ebola is not present on our campus.� Firm. Clear. And to the point. There were some very strong points made in Slippery Rock University’s Ebola message to campus, including a clear description of the Ebola outbreak in the world and an explanation of how Ebola is spread. The email stated, “It’s important that you understand that you cannot contract EVD through the air, through water or food. You can only get Ebola from direct contact
with the blood or body fluids (including but not limited to feces, saliva, urine, vomit and semen) of a person who is sick with Ebola or contact with objects (like needles and syringes) that have been contaminated with the blood or body fluids of an infected person or infected animals.� Great! The science communicator in me was so satisfied. As this states, you need direct contact with blood or body fluids or to share contaminated objects into your blood in order to contract Ebola. The email even cited the CDC and referred people to their site for more information. But, after this success, the email just got silly when it suggested that to protect yourself and others, the most important thing to do is to get a flu shot. It also suggested that to promote health one should wash their hands, eat a balanced diet, get rest, exercise and stay home if you are sick. I’m all about healthy choices and know all about how vaccines work. I also think there is no bad time to promote these things, but it came across as deceptive in this otherwise relevant and concise email to plug getting a flu shot and eating health while discussing Ebola. Because of the nature to which Ebola is spread, and the fact that it is an entirely different disease from influenza, a flu vaccine will do next to NOTHING to protect you against Ebola. To present such material in the email is preying on the ignorance and fear of those reading and moving forward a completely different agenda, no matter how well-meaning and beneficial it may be to the world. This is consistent
with a pattern of unrelated topics from the health center, where you are offered a Band-Aid and asked when your last period was on every visit, no matter why you’re there. Here are five relevant tips for not contracting Ebola: 1. Stay away from the vomit of a person who has Ebola. 2. If you decide to illegally shoot up heroin, don’t share needles with someone who is vomiting and oozing blood externally or could be internally. (Though in no way do I suggest or condone shooting up heroin in the first place.) 3. Do not eat the feces of anyone from Texas. 4. Do not have sexual relations with anyone you believe to have Ebola. 5. If you do expect to come into contact with someone with Ebola or their vomit, saliva, urine, feces or semen, be sure that you’re taking necessary precautions to not come into direct contact and decontaminating anything that does before coming into contact with it. If you think you may have contracted Ebola from one of the ways listed above, don’t let anyone do any of these things with you. Also, notify the health center immediately. Joking aside, Ebola is a very serious disease that has affected many people worldwide. I’m optimistic that the issue is being addressed and that this will be behind us in the near future, but we cannot let our ignorance and fear lead us to do anything (even if that thing is good for us). Decisions should be made on the basis of understanding and with confidence.
LETTER 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.
Believing in God and the Bible but not same-sex marriage is misguided If Steve and Jim across the street got married, I wouldn’t be insulted. I wouldn’t lose sleep or fear the start of another world war. I wouldn’t much care. It’s true that the Bible says Christians aren’t to judge. Sins are weighed equally, and you can’t point the finger at someone else until you are perfect yourself. I would also agree that being prejudice and judgmental goes against what Christianity is about, considering it’s based on love and forgiveness. However, to say that you believe in God and
the Bible but don’t believe same-sex marriage is wrong is misguided. Regardless if times are changing or not, who dictates what is relevant and what should be discarded? Does that mean it’s also okay to steal, kill, and commit adultery because “the Bible was written a very long time ago�? No, I don’t think so. I also don’t believe homosexuality was addressed in the Bible because children could only be created through man and woman and adoption wasn’t widely available. That’s like saying being a thief was only wrong because
they didn’t have as much stuff back then. Samesex marriage is something specifically addressed in the Bible, and it is addressed for a reason. I’m not saying people shouldn’t have free will to make their own choices because that’s something that the Bible supports. If those of the same sex wish to get married, you won’t see or hear me causing uproar. You certainly won’t see me protesting. There is a big difference between being offended and just plain not agreeing with something. Name withheld by request.
Student Government Association Butler Shopping Trip! Open Positions Freshman Senator (1) Commuter Senator (3) Graduate Senator (1) Applications available in the SGA
< & % & 8 = / > 55 and the Smith Student Center: 00
Leave Clearview Target/ Return SRU Mall Wal-Mart SRU 2 2:30 Pm 2:35 Pm 3:15 Pm 4 4:30 Pm 4:35 Pm 5:15 Pm 6 6:30 Pm 6:35 Pm 7:15 Pm 8:30 Pm 8:35 Pm 9:15 Pm
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B-4
October 24, 2014
PENNSYLVANIA’S STATE SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION CLARION
UNIVERSITY
2014-2015 Fourth Annual Business Plan Competition
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Registration Deadlines: Information Meeting: October 30, 2014 ECB-103, common hour “Intent to Compete” November 30, 2014 Business Plan Submission: February 12, 2015
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Submit your ideas for cash and prizes! 1st Place $10,000 2nd Place $5,000 | 3rd Place $2,500
Awards Ceremony April 8, 2015
Contact: Dr. John Golden Director, Sustainable Enterprise Accelerator (SEA) john.golden@sru.edu
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COMICS
Poppy
By Brooke Griffin
COMICS
Horoscopes
Brooke Griffin is a sophomore communication major from Meadville, Pennsylvania.
Today's Birthday (10/24/14). You're especially sexy this month, oozing charm and magnetism (with Sun, New Moon, Solar Eclipse and Venus in your sign). Explore romantic mystery. Contribute to good causes. Your golden touch this year leads to a rise in professional status. Money especially gushes in (and out) after 12/23. Springtime eclipses inspire family fun, leading to nostalgia and reflection. Share 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 a 9 -- You can go farther than you thought, farther than ever before. Cross or interact with water. Peek into the unexplainable. Give your financial plans time to work. Your vision is improving. You can realize a dream. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Your collaboration bears juicy fruit, and your work impresses the judges. Accept affectionate rewards. Continue to pay off debts. Don't overbook your schedule. You feel amazing! Share the love. Make sure your partner feels appreciated. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 9 -Determined efforts bring a long-term dream to life. Your partner comes through for you. The word gets out. Outsmart the opposition. Make your best argument. You have everybody's support now. Jump in; the water's fine. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Get into the most fun you can find. Invite family and friends to play along. With practice, your skills and talents can bring fantasies into reality. Take pictures and record the moment. Celebrate and get joyful.
Brewster Rockit: Space Guy
By Tim Rickard
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Develop a win-win situation at home. Listen carefully to an expert, and entertain a fanciful suggestion. Try something new. You can make a family dream come true with imagination and elbow grease. Get everyone involved. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 9 -Imaginative work pays well. Add glamour and spice to your communications. Make your message sexier and more enticing. Fantasies seem attainable... reach for the stars and sing out to call them closer. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Discuss your dreams with a loved one. You can envision the road forward. Get your financial ducks in a row. Make a convincing case. Have faith in your ability to bring home the bacon. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 9 -- A sense of humor can be incredibly sexy. Use your secret charms to advance your project. Long-term goals seem suddenly achievable. Contribute leadership at work and at home. Nurture yourself with good food and creature comforts. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is an 8 -- You're even smarter than usual, and your hunch proves true. Teach your philosophy through humor. Get an early start for extra productivity. Recharge and energize with peaceful meditation and exercise. Leap forward in realizing a vision. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 9 -- Celebrate with your team. Everything you need can be found through social connections and networking. Play with the most talented friends you can find. Share your resources, and pay generosity forward. It comes back to you. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 9 -Take the opportunity to realize a career goal or vision. Ride the wave before it passes by. Show you know your stuff. Take authority in an area of your passion. Discussing philosophy can be sexy. Someone gets persuaded. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Finish an old job so you can take off on a new adventure. Act on a fantasy. Allow yourself to get persuaded to go beyond what's considered "reasonable". Find an answer in a dream. Reveal your feelings. (c)2014 BY NANCY BLACK DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Bliss
By Harry Bliss
B-6
October 24, 2014
FROM IMAGING TO URGENT CARE. BHS Slippery Rock offers a wide range of services – right in your backyard.
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THANK YOU! On behalf of the Slippery Rock University Foundation, Inc. thank you to the following local businesses for their generous donations to our Phonathon program. Camelot
Sheetz, Inc.
City Theatre Company, Pittsburgh Dave and Busters, Pittsburgh Domino’s Pizza Fun Fore All McDonald’s, Slippery Rock Red Lobster, Butler
Subway of Butler
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, Grove City Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Inc. Pittsburgh Playhouse Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Taggart’s Jewelers, Slippery Rock The Hair Studio, Slippery Rock Walmart, Butler Walmart, Grove City
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CAMPUS LIFE
INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE
Paint The Town Pink
SRh"U"mans
Stores are turning pink this October for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Katie Ellis has the scoop on the products that give back.
Introducing a spinoff of Humans of New York, an SRU reporter profiles the different people who populate the SRU region.
See Page D-2
See Page D-3
Comedian uses humor to explore snap judgements By Kelsey Phillips Rocket Contributor
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET 'It's Pronounced Metrosexual' comedy show starring Sam Killerman discussed oppression and identity through gender and self-expression. Killerman addresses that although he presents himself in a feminine way, he says that being labeled gay is a misrepresentation of who he is.
By Ron Owens Rocket Contributor
Towering in front of the quad gazebo, a Rosie the Riveter inflatable balloon could be seen by all students walking to their classes during common hour on Tuesday to draw attention to the non-partisan rally being hosted in the quad. This time however, Rosie’s mission was not to get anyone to buy war bonds. Her mission was to get Slippery Rock students out of the rain and out to the polls this November. I n c u m b e n t Pe n n s y l v a n i a Governor Tom Corbett is running as the Republican’s candidate and businessman Tom Wolf is running on the Democratic ticket. The gazebo offered a brief respite from the wind and rain on the walk to class Tuesday afternoon where Representatives from the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF), the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and the American Federation of Labor – Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) set up an event called “Ballots and Burgers” to get Slippery Rock students motivated for Pennsylvania’s upcoming election for governor. The event provided refreshments such as hamburgers, hot dogs,
sandwiches, chips and soda to students walking to class. The hamburgers and hot dogs were cooked on a grill by volunteers braving the weather underneath a tree. As they ate their refreshments, students could sit in chairs provided by the volunteers and listen to the music playing on the stereos. Volunteers walked about the crowd getting those students who had not signed up to vote registered so that they would be able to take part in the upcoming election. Students could also take a number of political flyers and buttons on the tables. Many students posed for pictures in front of the Rosie the Riveter inflatable balloon. Another activity set up during the hour allowed visiting students and faculty to write down on a small poster the reason why they were voting in the upcoming election. “Politics is my passion,” read one poster. “It is my civic duty,” read another. Other posters were more impassioned, “I do not want to pay any more for college,” wrote one student. A s t h e h o u r w e nt o n , volunteers from the AFSCME and the APSCUF gave brief but impassioned pep talks to the students and faculty members gathered in the gazebo. “I believe in access to education for everyone,” proclaimed one
“S o, I’m n ot g ay,” we re the opening words of Sam Killerman’s comedy show, “It’s Pronounced Metrosexual,” about snap judgments, identity and oppression Tuesday evening. The comedy show was part of Pride Week, which also included a drag show, candle light vigil, movie night and other awareness and celebratory activities. As the author of “The Social Justice Advocate’s Handbook: A Guide to Gender,” Killerman began doing stand-up comedy of his own experiences being a straight man often stereotyped as homosexual due to his appearance, the topics he spoke about and other characteristics he possessed or were attributed to him. “It’s Pronounced Metrosexual” is meant to give individuals “a better understanding of themselves and a concrete way to make change if that’s something they want to do,” Killerman said. Presenting ideas about sexual identity, sexual orientation, gender and oppression in an accessible way is extremely important, Killerman said. “I like to take the Mary Poppins approach,” he said. “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.” His sweetener of choice happens to be laughter. “What a wonderful way to talk about issues that are… complicated,” Jodi Solito, director
of the Women’s Center, said. People are often afraid of what they don’t know and are reluctant to ask for clarification, she said. Through her experience in Safe Zone Training, a program that creates a comfortable environment at school, work and other settings that are supportive to LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) individuals as well as straight persons who support equal rights and opportunities (allies), Solito learned about Sam Killerman and thought he would be a great role model to bring to students, she said. Killerman warmed up the crowd with a timeline of his childhood memories up until the moment he asked his date to become his girlfriend, to which she replied, “but you’re gay,” Killerman recalled. After several repeated occurrences, Killerman acknowledged the problem was not of sexual orientation, or who one is attracted to, but of gender roles, he said. Killerman described himself as a very feminine straight man – one who plucks his eyebrows, dresses rather fashionably and takes pride in his hair, he told the audience. “You’re not gay enough to be gay, but not straight enough to be straight,” he described his lack of a label. “We think of labels as being bad, but they can be very empowering,” Killerman said. SEE KILLERMAN, PAGE D-3
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET Tom Watson rallies students to register to vote in a non-partisan event aimed at promoting the election for Pennsylvania governor in November.
speaker. “Let’s get a governor who supports education!” As the event drew to a close and students went to their next classes, volunteers had passed out a number of fliers and informative materials, as well as registering many students to vote by the end of the event. Students were now registered and those in attendance were informed on the candidates running for office and their policies. Now it will be a matter of getting those registered out to the polls on Nov. 6.
For those students who have not yet registered, the deadline has now passed. However, those students who will not be present in their hometowns can still request an absentee ballot before Oct. 28. For those students registered to vote, the polling stations will be at the Slippery Rock Township building behind the Intermural Fields and in the Slippery Rock Borough Building located near the Slippery Rock Community Park.
CAMPUS LIFE
C-2
October 24, 2014
Retailers go pink to support cancer research throughout October
Katie Ellis "ROCK'n Fashion" Katie Ellis is a senior journalism major and the Campus Life editor of The Rocket.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is once again upon the country as millions of people across the United States join together to honor the women who are fighting, have fought, or have lost their battle to the disease that affects so many lives each year. Signs of support can be seen in a number of forms across the country with dozens of cities turning their major fountains pink, P.F. Chang’s painting many of their iconic horses outside of their restaurants pink, and the Erie Times-News printing a pale pink newspaper at the beginning of the month to recognize the cause. The fashion and beauty industries are also working to do their part to create products to capture consumers’ attention, and donating the proceeds from the sale of these products to charities committed to finding a cure for the disease. Alex and Ani is just one of the brands that has committed to raising funds and awareness for breast cancer research this October, with the creation of their Arms of Strength Charm Bangle. With the brand’s popularity on the
Ask Andi
rise in recent months, it seems fitting that they would use their growing platform to support the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, a charity centered in Rhode Island that works to educate people on the disease, and help better the lives of the women who are affected by it. The bangle is a spin on their Starfish Charm Bangle, as it has a pink center stone instead of one that is gold or silver to match the metal it was made from. It retails for $28, and throughout October, 20 percent of the proceeds from its sale up to $10,000 will be donated to the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation. Cosmetics companies are at the forefront of this year’s fundraising efforts, with Eos joining the fight with their affordable 3-pack of products that any fan of the brand will love. Eos has gained a cult-like following in the last few years because of their unconventional lip balm flavors from honeysuckle honeydew to blueberry acai. The brand has expanded their product line to include everything from the original Smooth Spheres to lotion to shaving cream. The Limited-Edition Breast Cancer Awareness Collection Lip Balm & Hand Lotion 3-Pack includes the Pomegranate Raspberry Smooth Sphere, Berry Blossom hand lotion, and Strawberry Smooth Stick all for just $7.99, with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this collection going to benefit research. Clinique is showing their support for breast cancer awareness this October with their Pink with a Purpose Long Last Lipstick. This magenta shade of pink comes in a sleek silver tube, and with an accompanying bright pink cosmetics case, all for just $16. The cosmetics giant plans on donating $3 from the sale of each tube to the Breast Cancer Research
with the door closed as if they’re holding a secret meeting that I can’t be a part of. I’m not sure what I did or how to fix this. It’s making me really depressed. Slowly Sinking
Answer:
Foundation. Bobbi Brown cosmetics is also advertising a sale on lip gloss in honor of breast cancer awareness month, with their limited-edition Pretty Pink Ribbon Lip Gloss Collection. Four of Brown’s favorite glosses including Pretty Pink, Pink Tulle, Soiree Pink, and Bright Lilac are included in the set that retails for $60. Normally one of Brown’s famous glosses retails for $25, which makes this limitededition set a steal for a total of $40 in savings. For each set sold, $12 will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation throughout the month of October. The Loft has once again created a set of jewelry aimed at raising funds to find a cure, and this year they have partnered with Holst + Lee to create the limited-edition collection. For $39.50, shoppers can get their hands on a pair of tiered earrings featuring shades of gray gemstones set in gold with a bright pink stone at the bottom to give them a pop of color. The matching necklace features a similar color scheme with double gold and red strand necklaces and a series of opaque gray gemstones accented with the same bright pink stone on featured on the earrings. This statement necklace retails for $69.50, and 70 percent of the proceeds from both items go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This year alone, 232,670 women will be diagnosed with new cases of invasive breast cancer, according to statistics from Susan G. Komen. With statistics like this, it’s important to continue raising funds and awareness for the disease that affects the lives of so many women and their families every year. Whether you make a donation or buy one of the products that donate money to a cause, now is the perfect time to get involved in the fight to end cancer.
That’s kind of a harsh thing to do, but I personally believe that it’s not worth being friends with people who are constantly going to bring out the negative in you. You don’t deserve that. I say, first, go with trying to talk to them individually though! It worked for me!
Dear Slowly Sinking, In a group of people there will always be one person who is the odd man out. Right now, it just happens to be you. I know that Andi is a senior at sucks to hear but that could turn SRU giving advice to around any day. I had the same those who seek it and thing happen to me one year. My occassionally to those first suggestion is to start hanging who don't. out with your roommates more individually than all together. I think that will make a huge Question: difference because there aren’t other people there to influence Dear Andi, how they act or what they think I live in a room with three other so they might act differently. If girls and lately I feel like they’ve that doesn’t work after a while, been ganging up on me. They or if they don’t want to hang out always hang in a different room with you, then I'd say to move on.
Sincerely, Andi
Question: Dear Andi, My roommate keeps bringing girls back to our room, but I feel uncomfortable. What do I do? Confused Adolescence
Answer:
Dear Confused Adolescence, Have you talked to your roommate about this? Most often miscommunication is the biggest problem with roommate conflicts.
SRh"U"mans In this spinoff of 'Humans of New York' a reporter talks to members of the SRU community to find out what's interesting about them.
"I want to be a librarian. I like books and the quiet, so I thought that was a great job choice. I was the weird kid in high school, and I liked a lot of books about drug addiction, like 'Crank.'" What inspired that interest? My mom was a drug addict. She's crazy and fun. She doesn't take drugs anymore, but she's on methodone now." Is 'Crank' your favorite book? "No, it's the Harry Potter series. I have a Harry Potter tattoo on my left forearm, and I have this one on my right arm. What does that symbol mean? "It's from the TV show, ''Supernatural,' but I can't afford to pay for Hulu or Netflix, so I stream from shady back Alley websites. My favorite's the Free TV Project.
Simply talking to your roommate about it could really eliminate a lot of problems happening now and problems that could happen in the future. Also, most likely you both have an issue with something the other is doing so this could give you both an opportunity to address whatever issues there may be. My most important piece of advice, which you can use when discussing/talking about anything with anyone, is to never tell the person what they are doing wrong. Always use the "I feel" phrase. "It hurts me when you..." or "I don't appreciate when you..." Blaming people directly makes them go into defensive mode and stops the conversation, so make sure to never say "You shouldn't do..." or "You hurt me when..." Although it's hard, discussion is the best way to fix the problem! Sincerely, Andi
Need Advice? Ask Andi about anything Email Andi at rocket.letters@sru.edu Or... Visit theonlinerocket.com Click in the "About" tab, and click "Feedback" to submit your questions.
October 24, 2014
CAMPUS LIFE
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Students showcase Macoskey Center in documentary By Jocelyne Lemay Rocket Contributor
On Thursday, Oct. 23, a new documentary written, directed, and produced by three Slippery Rock University students was shown at the Robert Smith Student Center titled, "Macoskey's ALTER: Missionaries of Sustainability.” Arthur Link III, a sustainable management major at SRU, Benjamin Beers, also a sustainable management and development major and Doug Drew, a communications major all had their hand in creating the documentary, which was taken on as part of their internship with SEA (Sustainable Enterprise Accelerator). Dr. Robert Macoskey was ahead of his time in the area of sustainability, Link said. “He brought people together that had interests in 'hard' science to work on problems that the solution could only be found by integration of all the people's thoughts and experiences,” Link said. During what Link calls “selfexploration” of what Macoskey left behind he said, “I can only imagine the minds and souls that he has influenced and guided during his lifetime and even after. After reading, researching, and interviewing many of the people that have been the heirs to his dream, I wonder if he rests easy knowing that his spirit is still alive in each and every one of us.” Along with what Link conveys, Benjamin Beers also shares a vision with Macoskey. “I want to people to see this vision through the documentary,” said Beers. “If this video can make people think about reducing impact on the environment and encourages them to get more involved in PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSTAINABLE ENTERPRISE ACCELERATOR sustainability, then that makes me happy Macoskey Center documentary written, directed, and produced by three Slippery Rock and gives a feeling of accomplishment. students honors the late Dr. Robert Macoskey and his mission to increase sustainability. Now is the time to make a difference
and this video should help reinforce that idea. ” The whole idea for the documentary came about from the research the team did on the Macoskey Center. Beers said, “The team and I decided to create an oral history of how sustainability was brought to Slippery Rock and the people who helped pursue Dr. Robert Macoskey's futuristic vision of alternative living and energy resources.” It is intended to show people that Slippery Rock has had its hand in sustainability for 30 years, being one of the first institutions in higher education that did, and that the Macoskey Center is a great resource for that, said Beers. The documentary highlights the 80 acres located just off campus on Harmony Road of what includes a greenhouse, vegetable plots, orchards, a compost toilet, wind, and solar energy systems that produce clean electricity. It contains interviews with a number of individuals involved in the ALTER (Alternative Living Technology, and Energy Resources) Project such as, Mrs. Macoskey, Ron Gargasz, Ted Kneupper and Paul Scanlon, to name a few. The film is considered to be a short documentary coming in at approximately 30 minutes, and was created without a budget, with alternate money that was used for print services for posters and refreshments provided for the premiere on Thursday, said Beers. Although Macoskey has passed on, his vision will live within the documentary itself. All three SRU students, Arthur Link III, Benjamin Beers, and Doug Drew share a passion, and vision that is similar with Macoskey. The documentary shows how Macoskey's legacy will continue to live on in the work that he left behind, thanks to the efforts of students and faculty that are determined to see it succeed.
Student-run dodgeball tournament provides aid to Humane Society By Katie Ellis Campus Life Editor
Rock PRoductions is joining with the Butler County Humane Society for their third Dodge for Paws dodgeball tournament on Nov. 8, to raise money to benefit the organization’s efforts to help animals in need, and find rescued animals new homes. The event has been held twice in the past in partnership with nearby humane societies, and is making its return this November after a brief hiatus last year in cooperation with the local shelter. Students involved with Rock PRoductions have been coordinating with the Butler County Humane Society and designing advertisements that have been placed throughout campus to promote the event, and spreading the word on social media. Senior public relations major and business administration minor Lauren Jacobs, 21, serves as the Vice President of Rock PRoductions and is the coordinator of the Dodge for Paws event. As VP of the organization, she is in charge of client contact and sees that the services that organizations contract for are carried out by her fellow members. This year their partnership with the Butler shelter came about due to the connections the Communication Department has with Butler County through internships. “When we were planning it last year, they were the contact because they were working with Campaign, so we thought why not donate
to someone who is right in the area,” Jacobs said. “One of the members of Rock PRoductions was an intern with them which got us the contact, and we got in touch with them this fall.” Campaigns is a major requirement for public relations majors where students are given a client that is not Slippery Rock related, and they are tasked with helping to build up their PR department, Jacobs said. Dodgeball is the sport of choice for the event as opposed to another activity because it allows students to be active even if they don’t have the skills needed for other sports like volleyball and flag football, which gives all students the opportunity to participate. Sign-ups began last week and continue through Thursday, Oct. 30, at various locations across campus including the Student Center, Boozel Dining Hall and the Aebersold Recreation Center (ARC). Jacobs hopes to exceed the sign-ups in years past by next Thursday in order to make this year’s Dodge for Paws their biggest one yet. “The first year we had between 18 to 20 teams,” Jacobs said. “I would like to at least get what we did that first year, and if we can exceed that, that would be awesome.” Sophomore public relations major and leadership minor Chelsea Fryc, 19, is working with Jacobs and Rock PRoductions as part of her role as its secretary in coordinating with the freshmen and other new members as part of the freshman project. The secretary is responsible for finding out students’ areas of interest and putting them into groups based
on those interests, from creating advertising materials to spreading the word about Dodge for Paws online. “We broke it down into different committees and each would do a different aspect of the planning process,” Fryc said. “We asked them what their interests were, such as design, writing or social media, and they were separated that way.” Money from team sign-ups and the newly initiated sponsorships with off-campus businesses will go directly to the Butler County Humane Society. Sponsors have been given the title of "Paw Friends" in recognition of their support of the cause. The off-campus apartment complexes the Grove and the Heights, and Domino’s Pizza are sponsoring Dodge for Paws this year, with more sponsorship deals still being negotiated, Fryc said. Fryc hopes to see student involvement with Dodge for Paws continue to grow going forward, as more become aware of it across campus and through social media. “I want to see it continue on every year, and see an increase in awareness on campus,” Fryc said. “It’s a really good cause, and I’d like to see it grow.” Sign-ups for Dodge for Paws will continue next week at the ARC on Oct. 27 and 29 from 6 to 8 p.m., the student center and Boozel dining hall on Oct. 28 and 30, respectively, during common hour. The winners of the tournament on Nov. 8 will receive t-shirts and a pizza party in recognition of their victory.
Killerman talks about 'The Platinum Rule' and the right way to treat others Continued from Page D 1
Killerman felt that empowerment years ago when an audience member brought the term “metrosexual” to his attention, he said. “Metrosexual,” coined by Mark Simpson, is defined as a man who is meticulous about his grooming and appearance. While Killerman had found this new label, it is also such labels and how they are interpreted that causes people to make snap judgments, he said. “We see someone and size them up immediately,” Killerman said. In prehistoric times, people who were good at making quick judgments survived, he said. They saw a flower and thought of it as pretty or saw a tiger and thought “run,” he explained. Today, making snap judgments can lead to
a cycle of oppression when those judgments influence how you, your friends, family members and other groups in society view and treat others, he said. Social oppression is when one group supports the mistreatment and/or exploitation of another group. If we as individuals cannot oppress someone, Killerman said, we as individuals cannot “not oppress” someone either. There is one rule, The Golden Rule, that exists in some form in all religions and it says, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” Killerman said. The problem with this is that it assumes everyone has the same wants and needs as you do. “You tend to give the help you want yourself,” he said. That is, if you are a person who needs to
talk about your problems, you may encourage others to talk about theirs. But perhaps their needs and wants are different, Killerman argued. Instead, he prefers The Platinum Rule – treat others as they would like to be treated, he said. The best way to help someone is to ask them how they would like you to help, Killerman said. “How can I be a good ___________ (friend, partner, student, etc.) to you,” he said. And this rule applies not only in helping others but in making snap judgments, Killerman said. “The only assumption you can make is that you don’t know and you should give them the opportunity to tell you who they are,” he said.
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CAMPUS LIFE
October 24, 2014
GET AHEAD. STAY AHEAD. WINTER SESSION @ SRU DEC. 17 TO JAN. 13
CHOOSE FROM MORE THAN 110 ONLINE COURSES. Enroll for up to 7 credits For more info: www.sru.edu/winter A member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education
S SPORTS
Rock blown out in Big House Battle
By Brian Hepfinger Sports Editor
The Slippery Rock University football team (5-2) found themselves with the lead going into halftime in the "Big House Battle" against Mercyhurst University (3-4) last Saturday, but they couldn't close the deal. SEE FOOTBALL , PAGE D-4 DESIGNED BY ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
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Rock football suffers loss to Mercyhurst University at Michigan Stadium. Last Saturday, 15,121 fans were in attendance to show support for their teams. Clockwise from the top: junior wide reciever Nick Davis, senior defensive back Admire Carter, senior quarterback Jared Buck, junior running back Brett Crenshaw
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Shamar Greene, RB
Photos and Design by: Alex Mowrey
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October 24, 2014
Men's soccer wins close game against Gannon By Ryan Barlow Assistant Sports Editor
After entering halftime down 3-2, the Slipper y R o c k Un i v e r s i t y men's soccer (10-5) team rallied early in the second half to score two goals within five minutes to defeat Gannon University (5-8-1) on Wednesday. SRU won the game 4-3. SRU found t hems elves down early after Gannon was able to capitalize on a Slippery Rock own goal. The Golden Knights added to their lead in the 26th minute when freshman Ted Martin scored on a header. The Rock finally found the score column when senior forward Stephen Donnelly found the back of the net to narrow the Gannon lead to 2-1. Nearly three minutes after Donnelly's goal, Gannon struck right back as senior Robbie Bennett scored to give the Golden Knights a 3-1 lead in the 37th minute. Despite the early two-goal deficit, the Rock was able to score one final goal with 20 seconds remaining in the first half, cutting the Golden Knights lead to 3-2. Dom Francis scored the
goal, registering his seventh goal on the season. "That goal before halft ime might have been the one that wins us the game," SRU head coach Andy Hoggarth said. "Bringing it back to 3-2, and it brought our mentality back. We knew that we could win this game. It was just a matter of taking our chances and we took them." The Green and White entered the second half with plenty of energy, and Donnelly scored his second goal of the game just two minutes into the half, tying the score at three. Mom e nt s l at e r, junior forward Peter B oy lan gave t he Rock the lead as he scored his seventh goal of the season. The Rock held off the Golden Knights for the remainder of the game, and were able to secure the 4-3 victory. "Going in at half, we got that one goal to cut the lead at one," Donnelly said. "We knew coming out of half we wanted to make sure we get at least one more and we got it and then another one. It was a good for us." S o p h o m o r e goalkeeper Steven Rerick was in net for
the entire 90 minutes of the game for the Green and White. Rerick was able to save five shots on eight shots fired, while allowing three goals to get by. Junior defender Nick Kutcher had two assists in the game, while both Francis and sophomore midfielder Josh Allman each had one. Donnelly led SRU with six shots, followed by junior forward Mike Ilodig we, Francis, and Boylan with two each. Senior defender Josh Brake also added one shot for the Rock. SRU also benefited f rom only b eing whistled for seven fouls compared to Gannon's 21. The Rock outshot the Golden Knights 197, and also held the advantage in corner kicks at 7-1. T h e R o ck w i l l travel north to Erie, Pe n n s y l v a n i a t o take on Mercyhurst University (13-2) Saturday. This will be the two teams' first matchup against each other since SRU defeated the Lakers in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship game last year. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m.
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET
SRU senior forward Stephen Donnelly pushes the ball down the ďŹ eld during Wednesday's game against Gannon University. Donnelly scored two goals on six shots. He has nine goals on the season.
Football allows 28 unanswered points in loss
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
SRU sophomore defensive back Kris Williams tries to tackle a Mercyhurst player during the "Big House Battle" in Ann Arbor, Michigan last Saturday. Williams has one forced fumble against Kutztown and one blocked kick against Seaton Hill University.
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Mercyhurst won the game 45-23 after being down 23-17 at halftime. This was the third time that SRU played in the Big House in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and this was the third time they've lost. SRU head coach George Mihalik decided to start senior quarterback Jared Buck over sophomore quarterback and this year's starter, Zack Newsock, on the Friday before the game. "He had an outstanding preseason game, and then an injury took him out of the possibility of starting," Mihalik said. "He's been practicing the last few weeks, and I noticed that on Tuesday that I thought his arm was back to where it was earlier in the year" Buck threw the first touchdown of the game to sophomore wide receiver Leroy McClain for 52
yards. Buck had another long touchdown pass to junior wide receiver Nick Davis in the second quarter. Buck hasn't played in a game since the 2012 season. "I haven't played since 2012, so that feeling was awesome- being able to celebrate with my team," Buck said. The Rock had a six point lead going into halftime, but the second half was a completely different story. Mercyhurst scored 28 unanswered points, and shut out SRU's scoring. "They controlled the line of scrimmage in the second half, and did a great job coaching in all three phases of the game," Mihalik said. Buck threw for 239 yards (18-29) with two
touchdowns and no interceptions. He also rushed for 36 yards. "I just tried to mentally prepare myself and know that it's a big stage and know that I had to do my best, unfortunately I didn't do that," Buck said. SRU's running game, which is normally their focus on offense, had 122 yards total, which is their second lowest amount this season. "I thought we got away from our running game a little too quickly in the second half, and put ourselves in some bad second and 10 situations," Mihalik said. SRU sophomore running back Shamar Greene and senior running back Teddy Blakeman rushed for 56 and 24 yards respectively, their lowest totals this season. Junior wide receiver Jaimire Dutrieuille scored the only rushing touchdown for the Green and White on a four yard carry. The Rock's defense held Mercyhurst to 17 points in the first half, but allowed them to score on every drive in the second half. Mercyhurst quarterback Brendan Boylan threw for 385 yards (24-37) with four touchdowns and no interceptions. Backup quarterback Zach Emerick came into the game and completed one pass for one touchdown as well. Mercyhursts running game was able to accumulate 145 yards with one touchdown. "I felt like we did a good job on first and second down, but we couldn't get off the field on third down," SRU senior linebacker Austin Miele said. "I'll have to watch the tape, but I couldn't tell you what happened out there." The Rock set the Division II record for most fans in attendance during the 1979 game against Shippensburg University at the Big House with 61,143 people. There were 15,121 people in attendance at this years game. "The most people we play in front of during the season is maybe 10,000, and showing up here and seeing how big the stadium is, it's definitely a surreal feeling," Buck said. "I just wish we could've came out and played better football." The Green and White have lost two games in a row, after opening up the season on a five game winning streak. The Rock's next game is against Indiana University of Pennsylvania (5-2) on Saturday, Oct. 25 in Indiana, Pennsylvania at 1 p.m.
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Twin brother soccer players journey to SRU By Ryan Barlow Assistant Sports Editor
Twin brothers, Ryan and Peter Boylan, have never been separated from each other their entire lives, which is why both of them found themselves playing soccer together at Slippery Rock University. Having started playing the game they love at the age of three, both of them always played on the same team. “I can’t imagine playing on a team separate from Peter,” Ryan said. “It was just always easier for us to be together because it would be easy on my parents so they wouldn’t have to decide who goes and watches which kid wherever they are.” The two brothers began playing for their local club soccer team in Pickering, Ontario at the age of seven. After seven years with the club team, the two joined Ajax Soccer Club at the age of 16, and continued with Ajax through their high school careers prior to attending the Rock. Before actually committing to SRU, there was a time where the twins thought they could have parted ways and played at separate universities. In fact, Ryan was very interested in attending Division I University of Vermont, but he eventually realized that the school's size was just too overwhelming. “One thing that was huge for me was that I wanted to be able to tell the difference between the school and the town,” Ryan said. “Obviously, if they didn’t want to bring Peter along as well it would have been difficult trying to figure out what we would have done financially. Splitting up costs, and my family trying to visit two different locations would have been really difficult for them.” As the time to finally choose which university they wanted to attend, Slippery Rock eventually emerged as both of their top choices, and they can even credit teammate and fellow Canadian, Brandon Chiu, with their decision. “Brandon lives about 10 minutes from us at home,” Peter said. “He pretty much told us we needed to come here. He said that we would love it. He Facebook messaged us, texted us, and made sure he did everything he could to make sure we would be here.” Both brothers agree that being able to actually know somebody like Chiu was important in their decision, because it was nice to know somebody other than just each other. “Obviously coming in to college can be difficult on
PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER BOYLAN
SRU junior soccer players Ryan (left) and Peter (right) Boylan pose for a picture during their vacation in Florida at the age of 10. Ryan is a defender, and Peter is a forward. Both brothers have played in all 14 games this season, and Ryan has seven goals.
anyone, so it was just great that I am able to be going through this experience with Ryan,” Peter said. The process was even a little more difficult for the brothers since they were coming over the Canadian boarder to attend a college in the United States. This means that their phones would not work in the U.S., so it was difficult for them to talk to people at home, and they also needed to set up all new bank accounts. “There was some little house-keeping things we needed to take care of,” Ryan said. “It was great to have Peter here with me because we were able to go out and meet people together, and it was just nice to have an extra person there for me if I needed him.” After their decision was finally made, and they were committed to Slippery Rock, it was important for them
to now focus on soccer. Through two full seasons, the twins have found a lot of success on the soccer pitch. Their goal was to get better and hopefully make playoffs their freshman year, and just get better every year. Their goal was succeeded, as the Rock not only made the playoffs, but even accessed birth to the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship game against Mercyhurst University. The Rock lost that matchup, but found themselves in the finals again the next season, once again against Mercyhurst. As sophomores, the brothers conquered their collegiate goals, but they realize they still have time left to keep things going. “I guess we just have to try and better that,” Ryan said. “We just want to go further into the national tournament and see if we can win the whole thing.”
Rock field hockey continues winning streak Doug Gilghrist Rocket Contributor
The Slippery Rock University field hockey team (8-6) increased its winning streak to four games with a pair of conference wins over Kutztown University (6-7) and Bloomsburg University (4-8) this past Friday and Wednesday. SRU defeated Kutztown 2-0, and also beat Bloomsburg 2-1 in overtime. The Rock now has eight wins for the season, which is tied for the fourth most in their history. Their four game winning streak is their longest winning streak since 1998, which is also the last year they posted a winning record. SRU needs two more wins to clinch a winning record this season. Despite disadvantages in shots (9-7) and penalty corners (12-3), SRU got their second shutout of the season last Saturday over Kutztown. The offensive attack was led by senior forward Allison Shade, who recorded two shots, including one that found the back of the net for the first goal of the game late in the first half. It was Shade's second goal on the season. Head coach Julie Swiney likes the way Shade has been playing recently.
"Allison has been playing with confidence offensively and defensively which is creating opportunities for her to score," Swiney said. SRU sophomore forward Megan McKay capped off the scoring in the 49th minute by scoring her first goal of the season, which gave the Green and White a 2-0 advantage. The Rock's defense led the way once again in front of junior goalie Carlee DuMars, who made four saves in the win. Coming into Wednesday's battle with Bloomsburg, the Rock had won only two of the previous 40 meetings between the two schools. That trend would switch, however, as SRU, led by Shade once again, won an overtime contest. The Rock was outshot 14-3 for the game, but two of those shots, both by Shade, beat the Bloomsburg goalie. Bloomsburg opened up the scoring in the 19th minute to take a 1-0 lead. Shade evened the score with less than five minutes left in the first half with her first goal of the game and third of the season. Sophomore midfielder Renee Rosenblum picked up the assist on the play. The score remained tied 1-1 for the rest
of the first half and all of the second half. In the 79th minute of play, Shade scored her second goal of the game on a breakaway, assisted by senior midfielder Kaili Simmons, to win it for the Rock. Despite her heroics, Shade deflected most of the praise to the rest of the team. "Overall, I feel this win was a team effort and this group of girls is committed to taking our season into postseason play," Shade said. "All 25 of us want this more than anything, and that's what it takes to be successful; commitment from all." A few more wins and the dream of postseason play may become a reality for this squad. "They continue to take it one game at a time and focus on the mission of Rock hockey," Swiney said. "This focus has allowed multiple players to contribute to our success." DuMars had three saves in the victory. SRU is now 3-1 in overtime games this season. The Rock's next game is in Indiana, Pe n n s y l v a n i a o n S atu rd ay a g ai n s t Indiana University of Pennsylvania (6-7), where they will try to extend their winning streak to five. They haven't won five games in a row since 1987.
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
SRU sophomore midfielder Renee Rosenblum attempts to control the ball during Wednesday's game against Bloomsburg University. Rosenblum had one assist in the game. She has one goal and one assist on the year.
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