The Slate 5-11-21

Shippensburg University made it, B1

Cowgirl gets popular on TikTok, C1

Percussion Ensemble performs, D1

T&F’s historic weekend, E1

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Volume 64 No. 21

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

2021-22 SGA presents awards to faculty, staff Noel Miller

Managing Editor

Photo courtesy of Shippensburg University

Laurie Carter came to Shippensburg University in 2017 around the same time as the Class of 2021.

Carter reflects on time and experience at SU Hannah Pollock Editor-in-Chief

Shippensburg University is preparing to say “goodbye” to its 17th president, Laurie Carter.

Carter is departing the university at the end of June to take on the president position at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. She began her tenure at SU in 2017, arriving at the same time as the class of 2021.

Carter sat down with graduating Slate editor-in-chief Hannah Pollock on May 3 to reflect on her time at SU. Prior to her April 20, 2018, inaugura-

tion, Carter and SU hosted the “17 Days of Kindness,” a series of interactive community events. The initial event kicked off with a flash mob, and continued to a food drive, ice cream social and more.

Now as she prepares to leave, Carter and the campus community are holding the 17 days again, with events including a blood drive, service days, community clean ups and food and school supply drives.

“I think it’s really significant to the world — kindness matters,” Carter said of the event’s significance to her and the community. “And a little kindness goes a long way. It really softened the com-

munity, brought us together in so many ways. And I thought it appropriate for us to end in the same way, really focusing on how we treat one another and that mutual respect.

Most of this year’s graduates arrived on campus at or near the same time as President Carter, who was leaving her position as executive vice president and university council position at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, Kentucky.

The Student Government Association 2021-22 leadership held its first meeting Thursday in Memorial Auditorium.

SGA President Riley Brown opened the meeting with a welcome. He expressed excitement for the new school year and for the first in-person meeting of 2021.

Brown announced the presentation of awards for SGA staff, faculty and administration member of the year during the meeting. Chase Slenker, vice president of budget and finance presented the staff award to Raven Francis.

Ashley Smith, senator for the college of education and human services, gave the faculty award to Lynn Baynum, an SU professor in the education department. Brown presented the administration award to Christopher Clarke, ex-

ecutive director of operations.

Following these, Slenker announced the SGA Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union (PSECU) scholarship winners: Ra’Shay Gabrell, Elisa Hutzell, Sydney Morgan, Tyler Leisher, Erin Gibbons, Chante Robinson, Daulton Zeaman, Lauren Bryant, Olivia Chovanes, Ezekiel Oghende and Mattie Round.

To apply for the scholarship individuals had to be a returning undergraduate student, be a PSECU member and submit a short essay.

Moving on to new business, several new senators were appointed. Amanda LaVana was appointed as the female athletics senator, Katie Fischetti was appointed as the transfer student senator and Shadai Joyner was moved from being the transfer student senator to the non-traditional student senator.

See “CARTER,” A2

Lavender Graduation to celebrate work and experience of LGBTQ+ students Noel Miller

Managing Editor

The Pride Center will hold the Lavender Graduation ceremony on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. in Memorial Auditorium to celebrate LGBTQ+ students in the class of 2021.

A reception will follow in the Academic Quad from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

“All students, including cisgender heterosexual students, are welcome to partake in the celebration,” the Pride Center website said.

Pride Center Director Alithia Zamatakis said Lavender Graduation is not just a cel-

ebration for earning a degree but a celebration of overall achievements.

“Really it’s about celebrating the facts that they are here, they have worked as hard as they have to exist and thrive in this space and to survive this space despite the oppression they face and to really celebrate that they deserve to be here,” Zamatakis said.

Students might feel obligated to invite their given family to their university graduation even if they do not necessarily want to. Lavender Graduation allows students to choose who celebrates with them while being their full-self, Zamantakis said.

See “LAVENDER,” A2

Graduation: What to know for the big day

Women’s Center reveals winners

Managing Editor

Siobhan Sungenis

Noel Miller

Members of the class of 2021 will walk the stage Saturday to mark the end of their college journey.

Shippensburg University will host three ceremonies Saturday following health guideline’s from the campus, state and Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE), officials said.

The first ceremony is an in-person ceremony at 10 a.m. in Seth Grove Stadium.

The other two are drivein ceremonies held in the parking lot by the ShipRec,

according to university officials. All ceremonies are limited to ticketholders only and all guests must wear masks when outside of their vehicles.

The stadium opens at 8:30 a.m. for graduates and 9 a.m. for in-person guests.

The drive-in ceremony for the School of Graduate Studies and the College of Arts and Sciences is scheduled for 1 p.m., with the drive-in ceremony for the Colleges of Business and Education and Human services following at 4 p.m.

Drive-in ceremony attendees should arrive at the

C-6 and C-10 parking lots to receive instruction on where to line up, said Megan Silverstrim, SU media relations and social media manager.

The drive-in parking lots will be accessible via the Adams Drive/Lancaster Drive entrance, according to SU officials. The lots will open one hour before the scheduled ceremony. Graduates must check in at the registrar tables to receive name cards and programs. Check-in closes 15 minutes before the start of the ceremony.

See “GRADUATION,” A2

Photo courtesy of the Women’s Center Instagram

Kapri Brown, right, won the staff member Gero Award. She was nominated by Diane Jefferson, left. The winners were honored April 30.

Asst. News Editor

The Shippensburg University Women’s Center held an award ceremony to honor faculty and students dedicated to serving women on the Shippensburg campus April 30.

The Women’s Center honored three women with the Gero Award. The award is named after Anne Gero, former SU social work department chair. The award honors those who go above and beyond in helping the outreach of the Women’s Center

and continuing to dedicate their time to aiding women on campus.

“This award recognizes those who make significant contributions to the status and climate for women on campus,” said Arielle Catron, director of The Women’s Center.

Kapri Brown won the staff award and was nominated

by Diane Jefferson, director of the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA).

Brown is involved in the Developing Dignity, Inspiring Intellect, Voicing Victory, Acquiring Assertiveness, Satis-

fying Self (DIVAS) women’s group; the Young Educated Sisters program and assistant to the director of MSA. “She is an advocate and activist for all women and she lets her work speak for her especially as it relates to teach our women how to be strong, confident leaders in a society where they are often in double jeopardy, one because they are women, and two because for some of them they are women of uniqueness,” Jefferson said.

See “GERO,” A2

NEWS

A2 From “GERO,” A1

SU English professor Nicole Santalucia received the faculty award. Jayleen Galarza, SU social work professor, nominated Santalucia and said, “Nicole is a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ communities on our campus, included in that is her spotlighting queer and women artists but also supporting efforts for more accessible and queer friendly resources on campus.”

Mary Nsangou, a social work student and

intern at the Women’s Center, received the student award. Nsangou was nominated by Catron.

“She created a student support group for students with learning differences, filling a gap that she had experienced herself. From this group she has connected students with resources and cultivated a community of support and shared experience,” Catron said.

For more information about The Women’s Center, go to ship.edu/life/resources/womens-center/

May 11, 2021

Your World Today

Commentary: The Slate looks back at a year of reporting

Shippensburg University Fashion Archives & Museum opens exhibit Siobhan Sungenis Asst. News Editor

Last month, the Shippensburg University Fashion Archives & Museum (FA&M) opened its first exhibit since it closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Clothed in Reality: Recent Aquisitions of Shippensburg University Fashion Archives & Museum’’ is open Monday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit is showing fashion from the 18th to 21st centuries and features pieces from around the world, including Native American, African American, European and Asian cultures.

“This exhibit is a celebration of generous donations to the FA&M, selected here for their beauty, intricate construction, or simply their joyful embrace of exuberant color,” said Karin Bohleke, director of the Fashion

Archives and Museum. FA&M is a collaborative effort with Shippensburg University and is an experimental learning opportunity for Shippensburg students. Students are able to use FA&M’s extensive resources to better understand the history of fashion. FA&M is dedicated to the history of clothing of middle and working class people throughout history and spanning many cultures. The archive currently holds three collections of historic clothing — The Pennsylvania Collection, The Shippensburg University Collection and The Reference Collection. All collections are mostly donated items and portray the history of their respective subjects.

The exhibit is open to the public and requires social distancing and masks. Groups are limited to 15 people. Admission is $5 for adults. Admission for children 12 and under is free.

Hannah Pollock Editor-in-Chief What a year!

We returned to the newsroom in August after a months-long physical hiatus caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

While some of us remained remote, we worked together to continue our mission of serving the Shippensburg University community with vital news, information and entertainment.

This year was like no other and was difficult at times. But the difficulty offered us an opportunity to grow. Our Sports Section adapted from game recaps to feature-focused content, telling a variety of stories

of past and current Raiders.

Arts and Entertainment and Ship Life covered virtual events and sometimes had to think outside of the box in coverage.

There was no shortage in campus, local and regional news this year, keeping our staff quite busy. Our reporters continued to tell the stories of those in our community, and I could not be prouder of our team.

This year’s Slate staff faced a variety of challenges, many of which were out of our control. But we overcame them and produced 21 editions and two special inserts accompanying the editions. (One of which is in this paper.)

We won seven Keystone Media Awards and received campus recognition for the 2020-21 Exemplary Student Group. And while we do not work for the awards and accolades, they are a nice way of encouraging the staff while also gaining recognition in the community

On behalf of The Slate staff, I would like to thank our readers and community for their support. We thank you for reading our newspapers and visiting theslateonline.com. The Slate provides our students a place to gain real-world experience to prepare for the professional world post-graduation.

Thank you to our seniors, who we wish the best of luck to as they enter the professional world. Next year’s staff will continue to carry on their legacy and the legacy started in 1957 by the first Slate staff.

Noel Miller will take the reins for the 202122 academic year as editor-in-chief, as most of our staff continues in their positions next year.

We will continue to produce content over the summer on our website and social media pages and will be back in print when students return to campus in the fall.

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64/39 From “GRADUATION,” A1 Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

The “Clothed in Reality: Recent Acquisitions of Shippensburg University Fashion Archives & Museum” features clothing from the 18th and 21st centuries and international pieces.

From “LAVENDER,” A1

While Lavender Graduation is based more on recognition and does not present diplomas, Zamantakis said, students will receive a certificate with their preferred name and their degree(s) along with lavender cords and a lavender rose.

The dress code is up to the individual, students are free to wear their robes and hoods, dress formally or go casually. Zamantakis said the open dress code keeps students from being restricted.

“It’s important to me that they don’t feel like they are restricted to professional standards that are very raced and gendered and classed,” Zamantakis said.

Lavender Graduation will feature keynote From “CARTER,” A1

In the almost four years since, SU has accomplished a lot. Carter said she is proud of the things the campus community has accomplished by working together. But shared governance is at the top of her list of accomplishments.

“The way we have been able to work with faculty and engaged other bargaining units in our discussions about the future of the university, has been significant,” Carter said. “And it is going to make a difference in how the university is able to move forward.

Carter turned to focus on student success — the reason why she says she works in this profession.

“I am a student-centered president — I love the students. This is why I do what I do and why I am here. And to be able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students has really been significant,” Carter said.

She touted SU’s 6% first-year retention rate and first-generation college student program. Almost 50% of SU students are first-generation college students, according to Carter. She said the program provides support to not only the student, but the family as well.

When asked what her overall proudest moment at SU was, Carter

speaker Xavier Garcia-Molina, a 26-year-old Puerto Rican queer activist and city counselor in Lancaster. Two student speakers who are Pride Center interns will speak at the ceremony. SU President Laurie Carter will also attend the ceremony, Zamantakis said.

Lavender Graduations were started in the 1990s by Ronni Sanlo, a Jewish lesbian because she was kept from attending her children’s college graduation ceremony because of her sexual orientation, according to the Pride Center website. The first Lavender Graduation at SU was in 2017 iniated by Andrew Melendez, a graduate counseling student.

Students can register for Lavender Graduation at ship.edu/life/resources/pride/lavender-graduation/.

simply replied, “This year.”

She noted how the past year was challenging and the feeling of starting out the fall 2020 semester hoping to make it to Labor Day, then through September, until reaching the end of the semester.

“It speaks to the testament of how we have been able to work together. Faculty, staff, students, all across the university leadership everywhere, saying, ‘We can do this, but we can only do it if we're working together and keeping the focus on the students,’ and I could not be more proud,” Carter said.

While the COVID-19 coronavirus may have physically separated the campus community during the past year, Carter reflected on the events the university has held in the past like Homecoming, Welcome Week, Alumni Weekend and Parents and Family Day. “I love homecoming. It is really the bridge between the present and the past and the opportunity to engage with so many alumni and participate in events across campus. There is just so much Ship pride and energy on campus during homecoming, that it is hard for that to not be one of my favorite days,” Carter said. “But I also love our Welcome Week program, the idea of welcoming students into the Shippensburg University commu-

Officials said all event attendees should expect to be in a line of traffic waiting to be directed to their parking areas and encourage them to arrive “earlier than later.”

Those parked in the C-6 lot will see the drive-in stage in-person, while the C-10 lot will have a large drivein screen for participants to watch, according to ship. edu/graduation.

nity and allowing them to develop a sense of comfort here. And it is after a summer where the campus is kind of quiet. It is you know, bringing life back to the campus, as part of that important cycle.”

And with the good times also comes the difficult bumps in the road. Carter has led SU through the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) System Redesign in the search for financial sustainability, while also facing other difficulties within the campus community. When asked what the hardest part of her job at SU was, Carter did not list any particular event or challenge.

“I think the hardest part is having folks understand that bumpy times come with any large organization — and that it is OK. And if we continue to focus on doing what is right for our students and for the university, it will continue to be OK,” Carter said.

“Dr. King has one of my favorite quotes, it is ‘the true measure of a man is not where he stands in times of comfort and convenience, but in times of challenge and controversy.’ And we have had some challenges and some controversies.

And I have always stood on the side of students. And so, I think that is what folks have to understand. Very often, when something challenging

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A list of full instructions for graduates and attendees can be found at ship.edu/ events/commencement/ commencement-instructions/.

Even though graduation attendance is limited, the ceremonies will be live streamed on supmediasite. passhe.edu/Mediasite/Catalog/catalogs/stdona-commencement-2021-spring and broadcasted on the campus radio station WSYC 88.7

occurs, folks focus only on that as opposed to on the whole. And what we have been doing on the whole is really good work, so that our students can be more successful and that more students can be more successful. And so, we have to get through the challenges and the controversies, but always focus on the good and our goal.”

Carter said if she were able to give herself advice when arriving at SU, it would have been to “breathe.”

“There were moments during those challenges. It was really just trying to go through it and get through it and help everyone else breathe,” Carter said, comparing the experience to being on an airplane and putting on one’s own oxygen mask before helping others. “I think sometimes, as president, you spend so much time taking care of others that you sometimes forget to put your oxygen mask on.”

In a recent PASSHE Board of Governors meeting, Carter asked her colleagues to make an effort to diversify each university’s council of trustees, so they are more representative of the students they serve.

“I think it's important for every university in this country to make that change, if they haven't. A leadership team should represent the people it serves. And if it doesn't, it can't represent them well. Di-

FM. The rain date for graduation is Sunday. Officials will make a decision about inclement weather by Friday at 3 p.m. if necessary, the university website said.

AccuWeather is forecasting Saturday to be partly sunny with a high of 69 degrees and 25% chance of precipitation.

Sunday’s forecast is mostly cloudy with a high of 71 degrees and a 19% chance of precipitation.

verse viewpoints really add to the richness of any experience,” Carter said. “And so, if you have a homogeneous group of leaders, they're not likely to fully understand the lived experience of folks who are benefiting from their leadership. And so, it's really incumbent on all of us to make sure that as we look around leadership opportunities, that it's inclusive, that includes voices that can speak for all constituents. Because if you don't have that, then you simply cannot be doing what is in the best interest of those individuals, because their voice is not at the table.”

Carter said the people and the campus community are what she will miss most about Shippensburg.

“I am so fond of so many people here, and I am so grateful for their support, for their council, for their guidance and for their hard work on behalf of the university,” Carter said. “I will forever be grateful for this experience. I have learned so much from the people at Shippensburg University and gained so much from this experience. And I truly hope that I'm leaving a legacy that speaks to the message I sent during my inauguration, that we're able to make waves because waves take us places, carry us to new heights and are powerful enough to break down barriers.”

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

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Opinion

The Slate Speaks

We made it through an unprecedented semester, year The Shippensburg University community came together to complete what we once thought may not be possible.

When we returned to campus, we set our goals to remain in the Cumberland Valley until the end of September, then the end of October, before eventually reaching Nov. 20.

This goal was not easily attained. We social distanced, virtually attended classes and sacrificed in-person meetings and events so we could stay on-campus longer. We completed countless COVID-19 coronavirus tests — more than our noses appreciated. We followed the guidelines in the hopes of staying on campus for the entire year.

Despite everything the world threw at us, we made it. As the class of 2021 prepares to leave this community, they reflect on their time as a Raider. Graduates hopefully leave with more than their degree — but also with four-years of experiences, knowledge and friendships.

Underclassmen: Carry on the SU spirit and legacies of those who came before you. When our community comes out of the pandemic and everyone returns to campus, rebuild and maintain the Ship family. Remember why you chose this university and help create a welcoming atmosphere for all.

As we complete the final days of the 202021 academic year, we can reflect on the year that was, but must look forward to what is on the horizon.

It is important that all of us make an effort to create our new “normal.”

Our community is at its best when all members are participating and contributing.

Join a club, organize an event or even simply reach out to a classmate. We must physically rebuild our community to make our campus strong in the coming months and years.

Keep going, Shippensburg. We got this.

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

The Shippensburg University community came together to complete the year.

Commentary: Celebrity boxing blurs line between sports, entertainment

Adam Friscia Staff Columnist

Boxing history is replete with flamboyant personalities. Champions such as Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson galvanized fans with their blend of skill and showmanship. However, an emerging trend has taken the world of combat sports by storm.

Over the past year, numerous pop-culture and media personalities have tried their hand at boxing. Among the contestants, no one has made more noise in the ring than YouTube sensations Jake Paul and Logan Paul. Having mastered the art of self-promotion, the Paul brothers have parlayed their over-thetop personas into boxing fortune.

While boasting millions of subscribers on YouTube, the duo has transcended online success. With minor acting and rapping endeavors to their credit, few would have predicted Jake or Logan Paul to become marketable athletes. But the Pauls regularly appear on major sporting outlets and have become bona fide boxing stars despite owning novice credentials.

On April 17, 2021, Jake Paul competed in a pay-perview (PPV) boxing match against former UFC fighter Ben Askren. Although an accomplished wrestler, Askren possessed no boxing experience and had recently undergone hip surgery. For his part, Jake Paul had just two professional matches against non-boxers. Yet the public was unconcerned with the men’s backgrounds and paid top dollar for their bout.

The New York Post reported that Jake Paul’s first round win over Askren generated 1.5 million PPV buys worth an estimated $75 million. Considering that neither man is an actual boxer, the payout from their bout is extraordinary.

Not to be outdone by his brother, Logan Paul is scheduled to face undefeated boxing legend Floyd Mayweather in a June 6, 2021, pay-per-view extravaganza.

Logan Paul’s career record stands at zero wins with one loss. Mayweather’s resume includes 50 wins and no losses. To make matters more bizarre, Logan Paul is 18 years younger than Mayweather and outweighs him by 30 pounds.

Purists contend that celebrity matches are more akin to professional wrestling than boxing. They bemoan the circus atmosphere created by these events and blame boxing fans for supporting the charade. Perhaps they are right. But it is a buyer beware world. And if audiences are willing to pay for these spectacles, it is hard to argue against them.

The rise of celebrity boxing has blurred the line between sports and entertainment.

Where things go from here is unclear, but one thing is certain. The Paul brothers will continue fighting provided there is money to be made.

You can bank on it.

Keep up with Shippensburg University news this summer at theslateonline.com

Letter to the Editor Dear PA Gaming Control Board and Shippensburg Township, The Democratic Socialists at Shippensburg University want to bring attention to the prospect of introducing a casino to the community of Shippensburg.

Our chapter sees the potential building of a casino in our community as a direct exploitation of the working-class people of our community and the students at our university. Recent Census Bureau data shows that 43.5% of those living in Shippensburg Township fall below the poverty line. Among college students, Pew Research Center found that 41% live in poverty, with another 24% living in near-poverty.

Our community has no need for a casino let alone the means to enjoy anything a casino could offer. University students are at most risk for things such as underage drinking, sexual misconduct and economic vulnerability.

Our community has extremely limited resources to combat these issues and a casino would only amplify these issues in an al-

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Letters must be no more than 300 words and may not contain derogatory language or messages of hate or discrimination.

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Letters without a name and title (affiliation to SU) will not be accepted.

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Letters should be sent to The Slate one week prior to the day of publication. Late letters may be accepted but published the next week.

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ready-struggling area. Our chapter believes that to achieve an equitable and sustainable future, the economic opportunities of vulnerable communities such as ours should be prioritized over lining the pockets of big businesses.

Many of our chapter’s members are Shippensburg natives and know what small town poverty looks like. Introducing a casino would clearly go against the wants and needs of our community and is something that the Democratic Socialists at Shippensburg University emphatically and resolutely condemn.

If the Parx casino project does commence, resources and funding for community outreach programs must take priority. The PA Gaming Control Board must demonstrate good intentions and be willing to work with local community groups to support future resource production.

Management slate.ship@gmail.com Hannah Pollock...................Editor-in-Chief Noel Miller........................Managing Editor

THESLATEONLINE.COM Reporting truth.

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Contact Us slate.ship@gmail.com (717) 477-1778 Mailing Address The Slate - Shippensburg University CUB Box 106 1871 Old Main Drive Shippensburg, PA 17257 Office Location Ceddia Union Building Room 250 Shippensburg University Adviser Dr. Michael Drager About The Slate The Slate is a weekly, independent, student-run newspaper printed by the Gettysburg Times. Its print edition is published on Tuesdays and its website, theslateonline.com, is maintained 24/7.

Weekly editorial meetings are held Sundays in The Slate office. Students interested in The Slate may request to attend the meeting by contacting management prior to the meeting.

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News slatenews@gmail.com Noel Miller....................................... Editor Siobhan Sungenis...................Asst. Editor Opinion shipspeaks@gmail.com Adam Friscia..............................Columnist Maria Maresca...........................Columnist Noah Steinfeldt..........................Columnist Ian Thompson............................Columnist Matthew Unger...........................Columnist Ship Life slate.shiplife@gmail.com Chaela Williams......................Asst. Editor Morgan Barr............................Asst. Editor

Sincerely, Democratic Socialists at Shippensburg University

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Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Ship Life

Central Pa. cowgirl boutique blows up on TikTok Morgan Barr

Asst. Ship Life Editor

Turquoise, serape patterns, graphic T-shirts, cow print and cowgirl boots are things that come to mind when thinking about today’s western fashion.

The industry has taken over social media specifically TikTok, an app that helped launch Morgan Phillips’ new boutique The Backroad Babe.

“I grew up on a 10-acre horse farm and my parents were really into the western lifestyle, so I was around the western lifestyle, even if I wasn’t into it when I was younger,” Phillips said.

Returning home from college, she discovered a new love for the western fashion she grew up around and wanted to bring it to the community around her.

She is no stranger to starting her own business, having begun another boutique while she was in college.

Using her previously established business, she changed the name and opened The Backroad Babe in November 2020.

Since then, The Backroad Babe has taken off, estab-

lishing a following base of more than 20,000 followers on Instagram. Phillips’ personal TikTok also helped in launching The Backroad Babe.

Some of her videos have received more than 100,000 views and drawing in customers from all over.

But the Backroad Babe would not be complete without the help of her family.

Phillips’ mom creates the custom headbands and helps her pack orders and prepare them for shipping.

Her dad helps by taking orders to the post office and shipping them to customers.

“It’s just been a really good thing to bring my family closer,” Phillips said.

As the boutique continues to grow, Phillips aims to bring her customers more of what they want from The Backroad Babe.

“It’s really important to me to learn the analytics behind product planning, so I actually brought on a team to help me with that. I’m really excited because I think that is going to be a huge area of growth for the business,” Phillips said.

Photo courtesy of Tea Ceresini

Videos of Morgan Phillips’ boutique, The Backroad Babe, gained popularity on social media app TikTok.

SU’s Art Fest features artwork from students

Photo by Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Shippensburg University hosted its annual Arts Fest, displaying graffiti-style artwork from SU students. The artwork was displayed near Reisner Dining Hall May 5.

Dance troupe entertains and stuns audience

Photo by Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Members of Shippensburg University’s In-Motion Dance Troupe ended the semester, performing at their 35th annual recital at the Memorial Auditorium May 9.

SHIP LIFE

May 11, 2021

C2

Recipe of the Week: Vegan Chai-Spiced Cupcakes

A moist and healthy dessert to share with your roommates, friends and family.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

-1/2 cup vegan butter -1 teaspoon of vanilla extract -3/4 cup of almond milk -1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar -1/2 cup of coconut sugar -1/2 cup of maple syrup -1 1/2 cup of coconut flour -1 teaspoon of baking soda -1 teaspoon baking soda -1 teaspoon ground cinnamon -1 teaspoon ground ginger -1 teaspoon ground cloves -1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees 2.Combine maple syrup, coconut sugar, almond milk and vanilla in a large bowl.

3. In a small bowl, mix in coconut flour, baking soda, ginger, cloves and nutmeg.

4. Transfer dry ingredients into larger bowl and mix well with wet ingredients.

5. Scoop into lined cupcake pan, filling each to 3/4 of the way.

6. Bake 23-25 minutes. Let the cupcakes cool before serving.

Recipe and photo by Chaela Williams

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Here are ways you can stay close with the friends you made this semester.

4 ways to keep in touch with college friends this summer

Alex Kapres

Guest Contributor

Making friends, finding roommates and growing connections with other students is a major part of your four-year stay at any university. All the great memories and laughs you have with your new friends comes to a close each year as the semester ends and everyone parts ways for the summer.

But the fun times with your college friends do not have to end with the semester. There are plenty of ways to keep in touch with one another until the fall semester.

Here are four ways to stay connected with your college buddies over the summer break.

Zoom happy hour One of the best ways to

stay in touch with your college friends is by having a weekly Zoom happy hour.

If you are 21+, loosen up over a few of your favorite cocktails and drinks and catch each other up on your week.

Attend summer concerts Depending on COVID-19 coronavirus restrictions in your area, summer concerts can be a great reason to get back together with your friends and visit their hometown.

Pick out two concerts and buy tickets with your friends before you leave school at the end of the semester so you can have a good reason to see them.

Plan a camping trip Pennsylvania is fantastic for camping with plen-

ty of opportunities to go to waterfalls, lakes and parks throughout the state.

Whether it be a new experience or your friends are camping veterans, it is always an exciting way to bond and reconnect with each other and the outdoors.

Watch TV shows “together” Start a new TV show series together and schedule to watch the same number of episodes each week.

After you are all caught up, you can text about the last episodes you watched and discuss your thoughts, opinions and future predictions of the show.

This is a great way to keep some interest in your conversation with your friends.

5 pieces of advice for graduating seniors Morgan Barr

Asst. Ship Life Editor

With graduation quickly approaching, the thought of joining the adult world can be scary for graduating seniors. Whether they are going straight into a fulltime job, taking a gap year, completing an internship or unsure of what they want to be doing yet, graduation can come with some stress along with an immense amount of joy.

There are many things to remember when approaching graduation day, but here are five pieces of advice for graduation and beyond.

Never stop learning While school years may end, there are always more opportunities to grow and learn. Approach the future with an open mind and be willing to learn from those you encounter. Whether it is your boss, a coworker, or

mentor, always be open to learning from others.

Remember everyone’s path is different There is no wrong way to start your adult life.

While some graduates may score full-time jobs in far off places, it is OK to take a post-graduate internship, work odd jobs or even take some time off before finding a job in your field. Everyone’s journey is different and no one has the same destination in the end.

Invest in your relationships After college, friendships and relationships will change. Everyone is going their separate ways, and not living right next door anymore.

Maintaining these relationships will take more work, and it is important to remember to catch up with friends and make time for them as your lives take dif-

ferent routes. Plan weekend getaways, lunch dates, anything to keep in touch as the years go by.

Make yourself a top priority The future is in your hands. Moving forward, you control your destiny and you will have to have your own back. Make sure to do what it best for yourself, and not anyone else.

Take time to stop, look around and take it all in Graduation is a special time, take a second to soak it all in. Feel the joy of accomplishing something amazing.

But also accept the sadness that may come when embracing the future.

Embrace any and all emotions that may come your way, and above all be proud of yourself because you will never relive a moment like this.

Hannah Pollock/The Slate

Graduating college is a major milestone and it is important to stay focused.

Shippensburg’s First Fridays returns for May

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Local non-profit organizations gathered at Cumberland Valley Rail Trail at Ship Station for a rainy day of food and beer from 4:30-8:00 p.m. May 7.

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

D1

A&E Carmine Scicchitano/ The Slate

The Mallet Quartet plays “Fractalia” during the Percussion Ensemble concert.

Percussion ensemble hosts first-ever concert during COVID-19 pandemic Piper Kull

Asst. A&E Editor

The Shippensburg University Percussion Ensemble closed off this semester’s concert series with a bang, holding its indoor concert on May 4 in the H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center.

The show began with “Escape Artist” and “Clave & Sons” by Eric Rath. “Escape Artist” featured the main melody trading back and forth with the xylophone and glockenspiel, as “Clave & Sons” featured sophomore Bailey Cassada performing the melody on the xylophone. The piece also featured two sections of music like today’s music.

Next, the percussion ensemble featured a non-pitched quartet, performing “Fire” by Pete O’Gorman. The piece featured students junior Drake Myers, senior Keric Ellis, sophomore Bryce Fisher and junior Matt McAneny.

Continuing on from “Fire,” “Mercury Rising”

by Nathan Daugherty is considered to be a standard in the percussion ensemble reper-

toire.

The last three pieces the percussion ensemble performed inlcuded: “Fractalia” by Owen Clayton Condon, featuring senior Matthew Zemba, junior Cassie Oakes, sophomore Bailey Cassada and director Aaron Trumbore; “Again” by Arnor Chu, featuring senior Emily Slothower and director Aaron Trumbore; and “Bomba É” by Rolando Morales-Matos.

“Fractalia” brings audience members on a kaleidoscopic journey as the performers manipulate musical time to create intricate rhythms and melodies.

“Again” gave listeners a sense of safety and home, with the song mainly staying in a major key. “Bomba É” featured all the members of the percussion ensemble with some members taking solos.

This was the first ever percussion ensemble concert at Shippensburg University. There are already plans in the works for next year’s concert.

MCU Phase Four: The release dates you need to know Adam Beam Staff Writer

Fans have been desperate to see the high-flying action of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) on the big screen. The last time viewers got to witness the Marvel heroes in the theater was all the way back in 2019 with “Spider-Man: Far From Home.”

While Disney+ series like “WandaVision” and “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier” have been holding fans over, we still long to sit side by side with our fellow theatergoers.

Thankfully, as the vaccination rollout proves to be more and more promising for things getting back to normal, Marvel Studios has unveiled release dates for some of the biggest releases for their Phase Four film slate.

Just a few weeks away, the highly anticipated “Black Widow” will hit theaters and stream exclusively on Disney+ beginning July 9. After a very promising first trailer, “Shang Chi: Legend of the Ten Rings” is hitting theaters Sept. 3.

Along with the reveal of these release dates, we also got our very first look at the cosmic adventure “Eternals”

by Oscar winner, Chloe Zhao, which will premiere Nov. 5.

After a massive cliffhanger and rumors galore, “Spider-Man: No Way Home” will finally debut on Dec. 17.

In 2022, Marvel will kick off the year with the release of “Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness” on March 25, 2022. Everyone’s favorite God of Thunder will return for another comedic, action-filled outing in “Thor: Love and Thunder” on May

6, 2022. Out of all the films set to be released, the sequel to 2018’s “Black Panther” is the one all eyes are set upon, with the passing of Chadwick Boseman. We now have a release date, and a subtitle that honors the late actor.

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” will enter theaters July 8, 2022. Another sequel with more released details is “Captain Marvel 2,” which will now be titled “The Marvels” and is set for a Nov. 11, 2022, release date.

As for the 2023 slate, only two films have a release date set in stone, though it can be assumed that any films yet to be announced will find themselves in this area. “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantimania” will be released on Feb. 17, 2023.

Billboard Top 10 1. Save Your Tears - The Weeknd

6. Kiss Me More - Doja Cat feat SZA

2. Leave The Door Open - Silk Sonic

7. Montero (Call Me By Your Name) - Lil Nas X

3. Peaches - Justin Bieber feat. Daniel Caesar

8. Astronaut In The Ocean - Masked Wolf

4. Rapstar - Polo G

9. Up - Cardi B

5. Levitating - Dua Lip feat. DaBaby

10. Drivers License - Olivia Rodrigo

Read the full story at theslateonline.com.

6 country songs to add to any summer playlist Alex Kapres

Guest Contributor

Summertime is the most important season of the year for country music.

The right songs on your playlist can make your summer that much better.

Whether you are a country music connoisseur or not, these songs bring out the best vibe in almost everyone who is taking in the hot summer sun.

Whether you are throwing a party, having a bonfire, sitting at the pool or driving down your hometown roads, you want to make sure you are playing the perfect country song.

Here are some “must have” country songs that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face and get your summer break started right.

“Beachin,” by Jake Owens This is an all-time “windows down” type song that was released in 2013 from Owens’ own album “Days of Gold.”

This song gives off chill vibes in pop

country music. Mentally, it puts you in a Jeep with the top down, driving to a relaxing day at the beach.

“7 Summers,” by Morgan Wallen Even if you are not a huge country music fan and as long you do not live under a rock, you have probably heard of Morgan Wallen. The song “7 Summers” is a country hit released in summer 2020. It still deserves a top spot on your playlist and can get everyone at your summer party singing along.

“Pirate Flag,” by Kenny Chesney Kenny Chesney is famous for his “summer vibe” country genre and getting people to lift their drinks up high.

This song is one of the best at doing so.

It taps into the good memories you have with old friends or running loose in your hometown. If your spirits are ever low this summer, you can bet your boots this song will lift you back up.

“Toes,” by Zach Brown Band This song, released in 2006, is a song that might be forgotten sometimes, but

it is a country music classic. Zach Brown is famous for shelling out the chill vibes and “Toes” certainly does just that. It is a great song that will make you sit at your favorite boat dock with your feet hanging in the cool water wherever you might be.

“Up Down,” by Morgan Wallen, featuring Florida Georgia Line This song is a hidden gem that is shared by two bands that can get any party going down the right track. Make sure you got the boat loaded up and the coolers iced down with plenty of drinks because this song will sure get everyone in the summertime party mood.

“Chattahoochee,” by Alan Jackson If you are a new listener to country and are looking for a great throwback to play, this song will cover it. “Chattahoochee” was released in 1992 and has been a fan favorite since the day it was released. It delivers a great southern “swing” tone.

Hannah Pollock/ The Slate

Find these songs on Apple Music and Spotify.

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

E1

Sports

Gallery, E2

Gallery, E2

Track and field takes home PSAC Championships

Photo courtesy of Bill Smith/SU Sports Info.

Both men’s and women’s track and field won PSAC championships over the weekend with the men dominating competition scoring in 20 of 21 of the events.

Isaiah Snead

Asst. Sports Editor

The Shippensburg University’s men’s and women’s track-and-field teams brought home hardware as both teams won the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Championships over the weekend.

SU hosted the events, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The women’s team scored in 17 of 21 events and had 24 individual place winners to take home the crown. This is the women’s 14th outdoor conference championship and their first since 2018.

The men’s team scored in 20 of 21 events and scored just five points shy of the league’s championship scoring record with 273 points to

win their 12th straight PSAC title.

The men never trailed in the championships and won nine events with multiple place winners in 14 different events.

Freshman Drew Dailey was named the 2021 PSAC Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships Most Valuable Athlete. Dailey became the first Raider to ever win the 800 and 1,500-meters in the same season. He also ran the third leg of the victorious 4x400 relay that concluded the meet.

Sophomore Josh Herbster was named the 2021 PSAC Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Outstanding Field Athlete. Herbster claimed first in hammer Thursday and also placed sixth in discus and seventh in shot put.The

women’s team finished with 131 points after ranking third most of the final day. The 17 points in the 400 hurdles — including a conference title for freshman Lieke Black — gave SU the boost it needed to move into first place.

Junior Kate Matrisciano took home the shot put title, a top throw of 14.50 meters.

This was Matrisciano’s first career conference title in shot put after finishing Top 5 the past two years.

The quartet of junior Rachel Bruno, freshman Caroline Mastria, freshman Leah Graybill and Black punctuated the women’s victory with a win in the 4x400 relay with a time of 3:55.12. Raiders’ sprinters contributed 75 points to the SU total score.

Graybill finished as the runner-up in the Most Valu-

able Athlete race as she posted a school record time of 11.95 seconds in the 100-meters and 24.83 seconds in the 200-meters.

The men’s team had a balanced scoring breakdown with 77 points from sprints/hurdles/relays, 75 from throwing, 63 from the mid-distance/distance crew and 58 from jumps/multis.

The men had three or more place winners in five different events.

For more photos from the PSAC Track and Field Championships, turn to E2.

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Kate Matrisciano receives her shot put gold medal.

Raider of The Week: Drew Dailey

- Named 2021 PSAC Men’s Most Valuable Athlete - First Raider ever to win the 800- and 1,500-meter races in the same season

Baseball splits with Huskies, conclude season at 17-19 Jack Ansley Staff Writer

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate Jackson LoBianco singles in a game Friday versus Bloomsburg. LoBianco plated two runs in SU’s 9-8 victory in Game 1 before Game 2 was later cut short due to inclement weather.

The Shippensburg University baseball team played its final four games of the season against Bloomsburg University.

Coming into the week, the Raiders were on the outskirts of Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) tournament berth and were in need of at least three wins in the four remaining games to reach the postseason.

The action started Thursday as the Raiders (17-19, 15-17 PSAC East) traveled to BU for the first doubleheader. In Game 1, the Raiders struggled, allowing four runs in the first four innings of the game. The Raiders would only score one run off of junior Ben Werkheiser’s RBI single, losing the first game of the series 13-1.

The Raiders came out swinging in Game 2, getting on the board in the first inning with sophomore Tony Vavaroutsos hitting a single and plating graduate student JuJu Cason and Werkheiser, giving the Raiders a 1-0 edge.

The Raiders increased that lead with a twoRBI single from freshman Andrew Chronister.

The Huskies (18-14 18-14 PSAC East) responded in the fifth inning with three runs to make it a one-run game. The Raiders scored two more runs in the sixth inning, defeating the Huskies 7-4.

On Friday, the teams returned to the diamond. Prior to the first pitch, the Raiders honored five seniors.

Junior Chase Zurawski put the Raiders on the board in the first with an RBI single to right field. The Huskies would respond with six runs over the next three innings to take a 6-1 lead.

The Raiders retaliated in the bottom of the fourth, scoring seven runs in the inning. Five Raiders were issued free passes to bring in three of the seven runs. SU received base hits from sophomore Lake Lloyd and freshman Jackson LoBianco to bring the remaining four runs home.

The Raiders went on to win the first game of the Friday doubleheader 9-8.

In the second game of the doubleheader, the Raiders started with a three-run deficit after the first inning. The Raiders offense responded in the second inning with an RBI single from Lloyd and Zurawski, scoring off a throwing error. The Raiders trailed 4-1.

After a scoreless third inning for both sides, the Huskies increased their lead with an additional two runs in the fourth inning.

The Raiders plated a pair of their own in the fifth, but it would not be enough as the game was called due to inclement weather after five innings of play, SU losing 6-3.

The Raiders finish their 2021 campaign at 17-19 and in fifth place in the Eastern Division.

SPORTS

E2

May 11, 2021

A ‘championship’ weekend

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Cam Strohe winds up for a throw Thursday at the PSAC Championships. Strohe finished second behind teammate Josh Herbster in hammer, measuring a throw of 56.20 meters, an NCAA provisional.

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Eric Kirk competes in a sprints event Saturday at the PSAC Championships. Kirk claimed silver and fifth in the 100- and 200-meters and also contributed to team’s gold run in the 4x100 relay.

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Lieke Black leaps a hurdle Saturday at the PSAC Championships. Black took home two gold medals over the three-day span, finishing first in the 400 hurdles and contributing in the 4x400 relay.

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Megan Kendall receives her silver medal Saturday at the PSAC Championships.

Kendall raced to second place in the 100 hurdles, besting teammate Brook Emery who garnered fifth place.

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Rachel Bruno (center) competes in the 400-meters Saturday at the PSAC Championships. Bruno captured fourth in the event, one spot and .05 seconds behind fellow Raider Caroline Mastria.

Carmine Scicchitano/The Slate

Matt Lenahan competes in the 400 hurdles Saturday at the PSAC Championships. He placed fourth behind teammates Josh Booth and Charles Bowman Jr. who claimed second and third place.