THE WOOD WORD MARCH 2015 • Marywood University’s Official Student Newspaper • www.thewoodword.org
Marywood to sell South Campus property Brigid Edmunds Multimedia Editor Marywood administrators have decided to sell the former Scranton State School for the Deaf property, which they purchased in 2011 for $500,000. The cluster of buildings, which became known as South Campus, have only been used for a handful of events in the past four years. According to Joseph X. Garvey, vice president for Business Affairs and Treasurer, when Marywood purchased South Campus, plans were discussed to move certain graduate and clinical programs into the space. “Our thought was that we would renovate a building at a time,” said Garvey. But there have been no renovations to any of the buildings in the past four years. While Marywood did occasionally use the space for athletic practices and special events, like the Immac Asylum, none of the original plans for the relocation of programs came to fruition. The speech and hearing clinic, currently located in McGowan,
was slated to relocate to Sout Campus as part of the inital plans. According to Andrea Novak, clinical assistant professor, no discussions about the move ever actaully took place. “I’m not sure it would have been the best move for us anyway; therefore the South Campus being sold does not directly affect current plans for our clinic,” Novak said. According to Nicole Malloy, assistant athletic director, there are a number of teams who utilized the space at South Campus for practices. Both the dance and cheer teams would practice in the buildings along with the baseball and basketball teams occasionally practicing at South Campus. “Next year, it’s just a matter of trying to get into the main gym [in the athletic center],” Malloy said. Garvey said that South Campus is going on the market partly because the administration decided to move forward with the plans to build the Learning Commons, which he said has been in discussion for more than 10 years. After
Satara Dickey News Editor
According to the policy, smoking, any use of tobacco products, and other smoking-related products of any kind are prohibited on all Marywood University properties, including but not limited to, all buildings, walkways, parking lots, athletic fields, and in any university-owned vehicle. Smoke-free policies on college campuses are trending. According to no-smoke.org, there are at least 1,514 smoke-free campuses as of January 2015, up from 586 in October 2011. Alexander Fallek, student
Photo Courtesy of Brielle Mayle
This file photo shows one of the buildings on the South Campus property, formerly the Scranton State School for the Deaf. Marywood is selling the property after purchasing for $500,000 in 2011. construction began on the Learning Commons, the Board of Trustees met with administration to discuss whether they would let the space sit idle until a future date or sell the property. According to Garvey, the cost to maintain the properties has been between $200,000 and $250,000 a year since its purchase in 2011.
Because of this, administrators and the Board of Trustees made the decision to refocus efforts on Marywood’s immediate campus and sell South Campus. Hinerfeld Realty is handling the listing contract and is soliciting developers to submit plans for the property. Interested developers must submit a plan detailing
what they want to do with the property. Anyone who submits a proposal also must sign a confidentiality agreement along with an offer of what they would be willing to pay for the property.
government association (SGA) president, senior business management major, and student representative on the policy committee, said that the discussion about the policy centered on how it would be enforced. All student violations of the policy will be reported to the Senior Director of Student Conduct and Residence Life, Ross Novak. Employee violations will be reported to the Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Patricia Dunleavy, for appropriate action. “The vote to approve the policy
was passed with almost all in favor of it,” said Fallek. Sophomore Criminal Justice major, Maryrose Evanella, said she was excited to learn of the new policy. “I think [the policy] is great. I’m so sick of smelling cigarette smoke all over campus and wafting into some classrooms in the LAC,” said Evanella. Dunleavy, chair of the committee appointed to study tobacco use on campus, said that as the policy goes into effect, her department will work to promote cessation
programs for those who wish to quit smoking. “Marywood’s motto calls us to pursue “Sanctitas, Scientia, Sanitas” - holiness, knowledge, and health,” said Dunleavy. “Given the health issues related to tobacco use, Marywood’s choice to go tobacco-free at this time is a strong statement in support of the university’s mission.” Contact the writer: sdickey@m.marywood.edu
Please see SOUTH CAMPUS, page 2.
New smoke-free policy set to begin July 1 Beginning this summer, Marywood will ban the use of all tobacco products on campus. The new smoke-free policy was passed by the Policy Committee earlier this month and will go into effect July 1. According to an email from Mary Theresa Gardier Paterson, Esquire, secretary of the university and general counsel, the policy aims to provide a safe and healthy environment for students, faculty, staff, and the Marywood community.
Take a look
INSIDE
Opinion:
Our Opinion: New smoking policy takes on personal liberty
Community:
Tea Talk allows students to discuss diversity
A&E:
Marywood Players Bring Broadway to Campus
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NEWS
March 2015
Librarians hosting Learning Commons forums Martin Lambert Correspondent
Throughout the upcoming year, the Learning Commons Committee will be hosting educational forums open to faculty, students, and staff. The forums provide a platform for members of the Marywood community to voice their ideas and be educated on the logistics of the new Learning Commons. According to Amanda Avery, outreach & assessment librarian and chairperson of the Learning Commons Committee, the concept of having open forums evolved organically. “It really just came out of conversations that library faculty and faculty in other departments just started having [about] the opening of the Learning Commons,” said Avery. “We realized that there were a lot of questions. We realized we didn’t have a lot of answers to these questions.” The meetings are designed to accommodate all persons in the Marywood community. “We’re hoping that a variety of people will come to the forums. We didn’t want to make them just for faculty or just for staff,” said Avery. Though not everyone will have
Photo Credit /Katlynn Whiitaker
Construction continues on the Learning Commons, which is expected to open in the Fall of 2015 in time for Marywood’s Centinnial Celebration. creative ideas to contribute, some plan to use the forums to aid in the transition to the new building. “To start off, I would just want to learn the basics,” said Michael Thomas, sophomore business management major. “What is the space going to be like? Will there be a dining area? How different
is it from the library now? How much is it going to change how classes are, if it’s going to change them at all?” The Learning Commons will be equipped with new technology. The committee plans to use the forum to develop efficient methods to utilize this equipment.
Committee member and User Services Librarian Leslie Christiansen elaborated on the objectives of this transition. “The goal is to really adapt to what every person needs and be able to take apart and put together what’s appropriate in each circumstance,” said Christiansen.
Centennial Service Challenge off to slow start Esperanza Gutierrez Assistant News Editor At Marywood’s 100th Annual Opening Liturgy on Sept. 3, 2014, President Sr. Anne Munley I.H.M., Ph.D., issued a challenge to members of the university community: contribute 100,000 hours of community service in honor of Marywood’s centennial. As of March 2015, the university has only logged 20,000 service hours using GiveGab, a fundraising website that allows organizations to tally community service hours. According to Sr. Catherine Luxner, director of Campus Ministry, students are not recording all of their hours of service into GiveGab. “I think that there are plenty of
people doing service; they’re just not recording it,” said Sr. Cathy. “I have a feeling that at the end of the semester, all those people will log their hours into GiveGab.” Community service hours can be completed by students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. Kelsey Savka, senior education major, said she thinks students may not be logging hours because they assume it might be a difficult process. “I don’t think the student body knows how easy it is to log in their hours. I think a lot of hours are being missed every day because so many students are doing service opportunities, but just forget to log them in online,” said Savka. Ann O’Brien, assistant director for Service-Learning and Com-
Graphic Credit / Katlynn Whitaker
munity Service, said that hours can even be logged from a cell phone. “One of the best ways to encourage people is to download the app,” said O’Brien. “It is simple and easy to log hours in a quick way.” The deadline to log community service for the Marywood Centennial is December 31, 2015.
A link to GiveGab is provided on the Marywood website under the Faith and Service tab. GiveGab also has a free mobile app for any iPhone or Android user. Visit www.givegab.com/ for more information. Contact the writer: emgutierrez@m.marywood.edu
The times and locations of the future meetings are to be determined. Anyone interested in learning about or attending a meeting can contact Amanda Avery at aavery@maryu.marywood. edu Contact the writer: mlambert@m.marywood.edu
SOUTH CAMPUS From page 1
According to Garvey, a special task force committee made up of trustees, Garvey, and Mary Theresa Gardier Patterson, the general council/secretary of the university, will be reviewing all submitted plans to ensure that the selected developer will respect the neighborhood within the vicinity of the South Campus property. “We’re very interested in looking into how the property is going to be developed,” said Garvey. Dr. Alan Levine, vice president for Academic Affairs, declined to comment on the sale of South Campus and how it will impact the future of academic programs originally slated for relocation. Contact the writer: bedmunds@m.marywood.edu
NEWS
March 2015
New system allows for online ticket sales
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Students and faculty take honors at American Advertising Awards
Photo Credit /Katlynn Whiitaker
This screenshot above shows Marywood University’s ticket page. The service allows students to purchase event tickets through the MarywoodYou portal. Rachel Looker Assistant News Editor Marywood event-goers can now purchase tickets for campus events online. University Tickets is a ticketing system that allows online ticket sale transactions. The new system gives customers the ability to make online credit card ticket purchases for various events on campus. According to Louis Pasqualicchio, centralized scheduling manager, University Tickets can also track attendance and reserve spaces for events. “After purchasing a ticket, a student may print an e-ticket, pick up a will call ticket, or simply check in at an event,” said Pasqualicchio. “Tickets may be purchased with a credit card from the site or through in-person cash transactions.” Students can access University Tickets through MarywoodYou ‘s portal. The general public can also utilize the online ticketing system to purchase tickets for theater, music, and dance performances. The public can access the system at http://marywood.universitytickets.com. Pasqualicchio added that University Tickets may also be used by any campus organization.
“Campus Ministry, the Office of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Athletics have expressed interest in using University Tickets in the near future,” said Pasqualicchio. The Student Activities Crew (SAC) has already used the system for bus trips, orientation, and homecoming. Dr. Paulette Merchel, acting theatre program director, said that when using the new system, patrons will be able to “pull up a diagram of the theatre and select their seats, print out an e-ticket, or choose to pick up the ticket at the box office will call window.” Merchel said the online ticketing system is convenient because tickets can be purchased in a matter of minutes. “The system has brought a level of professionalism that was lacking in the promotion of our performance events. We can now advertise online reservations,” said Merchel. Contact the writer: rlooker@m.marywood.edu
Photo courtesy of Christine Medley
Best of show winner, Nailea Meneses,accepts her American Advertising Award. at the American Advertising Awards. Gold winners included senior graphic design majors Marywood students and faculty Meneses and Ashley Kujat. Silver received several honors from the award winners included senior Northeast Pennsylvania Ameri- graphic design students Thomcan Advertising Awards compe- as Cunningham, Ashley Kujat, tition. The American Advertising Nailea Meneses, Patrick Mineo, Federation (AAF) sponsors the and Master of Fine Arts student American Advertising Awards. Jessica Meoni. According to aaf.org, the Ameri“I was and always have been can Advertising Federation (AAF) intimidated by competitions or is the nation’s oldest national ad- even just showing my work, but vertising trade association, and my adviser Christine Medley encouraged me to enter and I’m “I was and always very thankful for that,” said have been intimidated Meneses. by competitions or even The competition featured two categories, one for students and just showing my work, one for professional entries. but my adviser Christine Christine Medley, assistant Medley encouraged me professor of graphic design, won silver medal for her work, to enter and I’m very awhich was based on her famithankful for that.” ly’s Nebraska amusement park -Nailea Meneses in the 1900s. Senior Graphic Design Major “I felt just winning the silver was a major accomplishment, the only association represent- so I was very proud and honored ing all facets of the advertising that I won, but I was even more industry. excited for the students,” said “This was my first year enter- Medley. ing the competition, and I’m so The awards dinner was held glad I did it,” said Nailea Mene- at Colarusso’s Cafe in Avoca in ses, senior graphic design major. February. Meneses also won Best of Show Satara Dickey News Editor
Image of Christine Medley’s award winning work at the American Advertising Awards. Correction: In the February 2015 issue Nailea Meneses’ name was spelled incorrectly and Meneses was the only student to win best of show at the American Advertising Awards. The Wood Word regrets this error. Autumn Granza Editor-in-Chief Contact the writer: sdickey@m.marywood.edu
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NEWS
March 2015
Writing Center now offering Marywood honors employees for years of service Satara Dickey emony with the Sister Theresa 25 years Sunday consultations News Editor Maxis, I.H.M. Service Award for Ms. Wendy Brenzel
Photo Credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
Tutors Lindsey Crean and Gavin Coyne chat at the Writing Center desk about an upcoming assignment. Kristen Pietryka Social Media Editor The Fourth Commandment has been re-written: Keep holy the Sabbath and visit the Writing Center. Marywood’s Writing Center is now open Sundays from 12-4 p.m. for help with all things pertaining to academic writing. According to Marywood’s website, the Writing Center strives to help student writers strengthen their writing skills and gain confidence in their writing process. Professional Writing Consultant, Amy Fotta, who has served in that role for the past three years, inspired the addition of the Sunday hours. After speaking with her supervisor, Meghan Cruciani, assistant vice president for student success, she decided to pilot some Sunday afternoon and evening hours. “We really started to look at what the numbers were of people visiting the center in the evening,” said Fotta. “It continually got smaller and smaller.” This led to the decision of scheduling regular Sunday hours starting in the spring 2015 semester. “The hours on that Sunday afternoon time frame were well-utilized,” said Fotta.
Kayley Sullivan, junior history and political science major, is a peer tutor at the Writing Center. “We thought it would give people a better chance to come in if they are busy during the week,” said Sullivan. The Writing Center staff took midterms and finals into account when finalizing the decision. “We’re open to being flexible based on the feedback we get,” said Fotta. Students have the opportunity to drop-in at the center three times per week to work with a peer writing consultant. For help with longer works, students are advised to schedule an appointment to complete a professional writing session. The Center is located in the Liberal Arts Center Room 221. Peer tutors and a professional consultant are available to help undergraduate and master’s level students. Contact the writer: kpietryka@m.marywood.edu
Marywood University honored faculty and administration at the Cor Mariae ceremony and dinner on March 22. Admittance into the Cor Mariae - pro Fide et Cultura is awarded to full-time faculty members and administrators who will have completed 20 cumulative fulltime years of service during the year of induction into the Order., according to the Cor Mariae-Pro Fide et Cultura policy statement. Faculty members and administrators are recognized every five years starting with the fifth year after being inducted into Cor Mariae-Pro Fide et Cultura. The award entitles the recipient to use the C.M.F.C. in official publications and listings of the University. Those formally inducted and honored for their Distinguished Vicennial Service included: Mr. Steven Alexander Dr. William P. Conlogue Dr. Lloyd L. Lyter Mr. Samuel L. Olfano
Dr. Stephen C. Burke Mr. Dennis C. Corrigan Dr. Mary Jo Gunning Dr. Thomas Michael Jackson Ms. Pamela Parsons Mr. Mathew R. Povse 30 years Mr. Robert Arthur Griffith 35 years Ms. Ann Boland Chase Dr. Patricia E. Dunleavy Mr. Michael Patrick Gibbons 45 years Sister Gail Cabral IHM, Ph.D Years of Service awards are annually presented to regular fulltime, regular part-time and pro rata employees for cumulative years of service, according to the policy statement. All employees are recognized every five years starting with their fifth year of employment. The following were also honored in a separate March 25 cer-
20+ years of commitment and service to the University. Ms. Lisa Casella Ms. Marie Huester Ms. Cheryl Ann Kosydar Mr. John Zlotucha Ms. Elizabeth Anne Connery Ms. Erin Mitchell Ms. Sandra Ward Povse Mr. Peter Zadzura 25 years Ms. Lisa Hetsko Mr. James Kanuik Mr. Martin O’Connor 30 years Ms. Nancy Gibbons Ms. Karen Nealon Ms. Carol Yanusauskas Contact the writer: sdickey@m.marywood.edu
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OPINION March 2015 Our Opinion: New smoking policy takes on personal liberty The Wood Word Editorial Staff
Marywood University will be rolling out a new no-smoking policy that will take effect on July 1 of this year. The point of the new policy can be summed up rather simplistically: use of tobacco on campus will be totally prohibited. An email sent to students and faculty at the university details the policy. Included in the email is a list of places that smoking will be prohibited on campus and the procedure for how violations of the policy will be handled. In addition to prohibiting smoking on campus grounds and in campus buildings, the policy also bans smoking in personal cars “parked or operated on University property.” This seems impossible to enforce, unless Campus Safety plans on pulling people over who drive through campus with a lit cigarette in their hands. Besides the absurdity of a nonpolice figure pulling someone over for a perfectly legal activity, this policy spells a major possible issue for university students, faculty, and staff. This issue is a violation of personal liberties. The email sent to
students and faculty states that students found to be violating the new policy will be reported by campus safety to the senior director of student conduct and residence life for “appropriate action.” Employees will similarly be reported to the associate vice president of human resources. Of course, Marywood is a private institution. The University is well within its rights to say that tobacco use is no longer allowed on campus. But what was wrong with the previous policy? It allowed for a handful of designated smoking spots on campus, such as the “butt hut” behind the Nazareth Student Center, but smoking was otherwise prohibited. Why suddenly switch to a system where individuals can be reprimanded for what was previously allowed? The switch from a few locations allowing smoking to a total ban on smoking seems like an attack on smokers. Patricia Dunleavy, associate vice president for human resources, argues that, since the university’s motto promotes “holiness, knowledge, and health,” the new policy fits more in line with the university’s mission by promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Only weeks after the Brian Williams scandal, another famous news anchor has been accused of making false reports. According to the Huffington Post, Mother Jones Magazine claimed that Fox News host, Bill O’Reilly, is at fault for reporting several inaccuracies in his war coverage experiences during the 1982 Falkland Wars. According to News-press.com, O’Reilly claimed to have been involved in combat situations, seeing truly horrendous things. News outlet Mother Jones and reporters who previously worked with O’Reilly claim, however, that he was not involved, and in at least one instance, was not even there. In 2009, O’Reilly said, “I am not easily shocked. I’ve reported on the ground in active war zones from El Salvador to the Falklands.”
According to Bob Schieffer and others from CBS who were with O’Reilly in Argentina, O’Reilly never made it to the Falklands. O’Reilly was actually a thousand of miles away from the Falklands, covering a protest in Buenos Aires. Over time, O’Reilly has tried to make himself seem heroic, once even claiming that an M-16 was aimed at his head. Some Americans have relied on O’Reilly for decades. According to The Huffington Post, O’Reilly was named the most trustworthy news anchor on more than one occasion prior to the controversy. Post-controversy, according to a Huffington Post poll, now only 35 percent of Americans find O’Reilly to be trustworthy. To make matters worse, O’Reilly threatened New York Times reporter Emily Steel to prevent her from reporting the story
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THE WOOD WORD
An award-winning student newspaper A product of the Marywood University Communication Arts Department
Autumn Granza Editor-in-Chief
Vincent Schultz Managing Editor
Satara Dickey News Editor
Rachel Looker Asst. News Editor
Esperanza Gutierrez Asst. News Editor
Mackenzie Warren Web Editor
Anne Zukowski Asst. Web Editor
Brigd Edmunds Multimedia Editor
Alex Weidner
Asst. Multimedia Editor
Patrick Kernan
Comic Credit / Alex Weidner
But that does not change the fact that smokers are adults who are free to choose an unhealthy lifestyle if they’d like. Besides, if Marywood is going to prohibit one unhealthy lifestyle on campus, why stop there? Perhaps there should be a ban on Doritos and Pepsi products, too. Marywood’s new smoking policy will most likely do nothing to create a “healthier lifestyle” for smokers. They’ll just go else-
where to smoke. They’ll just cross the street to leave university property. It will be interesting to see how kindly Scranton and Dunmore residents take to Marywood University students and faculty standing in front of their homes trying to get a cigarette in before class, away from the watchful eye of campus safety.
inaccurately. According to The Washington Post, during a phone interview, O’Reilly said to Steel: “I am coming at you with everything I have. You can take it as a threat.” Instead of publicly apologizing about his fraudulent experiences, O’Reilly made a threat to cope with his frustrations. O’Reilly should know better. Whether or not O’Reilly is thought of a reporter or just a “commentator,” he knows how the news business works. He knows that Steel was just trying to get to the truth of the matter. She was simply trying to do the job that they were both trained to do. He should also know that, by taking such a standoffish tone, he certainly wasn’t making himself look any less guilty.
Opinion Editor
Dominic Behler
Asst. Opinion Editor
Paul Capoccia Community Editor
Amanda Duncklee
Asst. Community Editor
Juliette Meyers A&E Editor
Francelis Capellan Asst. A&E Editor
Evan Felser Sports Editor
John Ferraro
Asst. Sports Editor
Kelsey Van Horn Design Editor
Connor Moffitt
Bill O’Reilly: Pinocchio news anchor McKensie Curnow Correspondant
Asst. Design Editor
Katlynn Whitaker Photography Editor
Kristen Pietryka Social Media Editor
Maura Olek
Asst. Social Media Editor
Janice Richardson Copy Editor
Sarah E. Cruz Copy Editor
Lindsey Matylewicz Advertising Manager
Erin Murphy
Asst. Advertising Manager
Lindsey Wotanis, Ph.D. Faculty Adviser
Paul J. Sevensky, M.A. Faculty Adviser
Have an opinion?
Graphic Credit / Kelsey Van Horn
And to top it all off, Fox News is standing by his side. According to The Washington Post, “A Fox News spokesman Please see O’REILLY, page 6.
Submit a letter to the editor: Letters must be 300 words or fewer. The Wood Word reserves the right to edit letters for length and grammar. Send name, title, photo, and a phone number where you can be reached to: thewoodword@gmail.com
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OPINION
March 2015
Should Colosseum vandals be punished? O’REILLY
He Said: Vandalism not good, She Said: Vandalism still but part of history now illegal; pay up, fools Patrick Kernan Opinion Editor According to the Washington Post, two Americans were arrested in Rome earlier this month after carving their initials, a “J” and an “N,” into a wall of the Colosseum. Last year, a Russian tourist did the same thing, and was fined the equivalent of almost $25,000, according to Fox News. It seems likely the American tourists will be facing a similar fate. The Colosseum is undeniably a major part of history, as it has stood in one of the most important cities in the world for close to two thousand years. It is a major piece of cultural heritage, for both Italians and humanity as a whole. As such, it should be protected and preserved for future generations. But here’s the thing: I don’t believe that the vandalism should be erased. Humans, since the inception of our species, have felt the need to leave our mark on time, and this often comes in the form of leaving our writing on big things. This can be seen as early as over 18,000 years ago, as our early ancestors painted the animals they saw in the caves of Lascaux in France. In more recent times, meaning
Brigid Edmunds Multimedia Editor
people have vandalized historical before the destruction of Pombuildings and landmarks in the peii by Mount Vesuvius, vandals past should necessitate a “pass” for in the ancient city chose to leave While I have to agree with Pat’s these vandals is like saying that their marks by scrawling some se- statement that vandalism is an just because a lot of people steal, it riously dirty jokes on the walls of important part of history, I think shouldn’t be illegal. the city. another point to be made is the I understand the glamour and Vandalism such as this gives fact that it is still illegal to vandal- finality of having your name or modern-day archaeologists and ize certain pieces of property, one initial on a famous landmark that anthropologists an inmillions of people teresting peak into the visit, but when these past. It shows what women posted the people were thinkpicture online, they ing about at the time should not have been of the vandalism--be surprised when they it the prey they were were reprimanded. hunting or simply This apparently sex jokes--but above innate human desire all else it shows that to be remembered the human mindset can also be described has hardly changed as a selfish attenover the years. We tion-seeking act. It simply want to write would be one thing things down and be Photo Credit / Alex Weidner to vandalize the remembered. Patrick Kernan and Brigid Edmunds duel in a similar way building and have So while “J” and to the gladiators of the Colosseum. that be a personal “N,” whose real names of those being the Colosseum. moment, but to publicize the act for have not been revealed, definitely Pat pointed out how important all to see online is something else should not have purposely de- the Colosseum is to world history entirely. stroyed part of a cultural land- and especially Italians. It is imVandalism is not a new concept mark like the Colosseum, their portant, so I understand why the and it will certainly be around for mark should be left. It is part of government would be upset about years to come. Just because somehistory now, and to erase it would someone defacing an iconic land- thing has become “the norm,” be tantamount to trying to erase mark. It should be protected, and doesn’t mean that it is an approprithe past. I think those women, like so many ate behavior. Contact the writer: before them, should be fined. Contact the writer: pkernan@m.marywood.edu bedmunds@m.marywood.edu Arguing that because other
from page 5 said that ‘O’Reilly was not an eyewitness to any bombings or injuries in Northern Ireland. Instead, he was shown photos of bombings by Protestant police officers.’” How can Fox News stand by a man caught in a lie? How can O’Reilly not suffer any repercussions from his employer? What Fox should do is follow in NBC’s footsteps. According to CNN, NBC took Brian Williams off the air for six months without pay while they investigate the situation, as Williams admitted to inflating stories regarding his time spent reporting in Iraq. Brian Williams has also apologized for his scandal. O’Reilly needs to suffer the consequences if he wants to gain any sense of dignity back. Rather than making threats and verbal attacks, O’Reilly should, at the very least, take responsibility for his actions and publicly apologize to his once loyal and trusting viewers. According to the Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics, journalists need to “seek truth and report it” above all else. If this has not happened, consequences must come. Contact the writer: mcurnow@m.marywood.edu
Government spending for NASA a worthwhile expense Dominic Behler Assistant Opinion Editor
According to the Wall Street Journal, the U. S. House of Representatives passed a bill to provide $18 billion in funding to NASA for the coming fiscal year. A plan for long-term funding still remains a topic of disagreement among both parties. The strange thing about this authorization bill is in that it contains $540 million more than the amount requested by the Obama Administration. The bill also requires NASA to further detail plans to send humans to Mars and study asteroids that may pose harmful to Earth in
the future, as well as developing a robotic mission to one of Jupiter’s moons. The thought of NASA receiving any funding at all can be a topic of hot debate. There are those who believe that space exploration is an incredible waste, and those who see its value, despite the costs. Thanks to space exploration, we are now fairly certain that the moon is not in fact made of cheese, and this is definitely a plus. But, some argue that the superficial pieces of knowledge we can gain from space exploration isn’t truly worth billions of dollars. In the same vein, space exploration can help us learn about the possibility of life on other planets,
which seems compelling when written on paper, but is this truly practical? The answer must be “yes.” Regardless of what we gain from space exploration in the future, the advances in technology and science that have been proven to come with it are incredibly valuable. According to the official NASA website, space exploration has led to the development of LED lights, infrared ear thermometers, artificial limbs, enriched baby food, cordless vacuums, and even harnessing solar energy. The list goes on and on. Additionally, NASA is responsible for studying Earth, the atmosphere, biosphere, oceans, and
the land surface, which has given us a better understanding of the Earth as a whole. The information we now possess regarding weather and cartography would be unavailable if NASA hadn’t been funded. Is is also important to consider the economic benefits that come with NASA’s research. The innovations developed for NASA missions have not only shaped the future of science, but the future of our everyday lives. One third of the U. S. Economy is influenced by natural occurrences, such as climate and weather. We are inclined to study the Earth to better understand these phenomena, and as a result, advance in the way of our economy.
Of the $18 billion on the table, I believe that only good things can come of it. NASA is something worth investing in, for we gain far more from its research than mildly interesting factoids about the solar system. We gain technology that will enable us to survive and thrive in a growing world. We gain a deeper understanding of the planet that is our home. Most importantly, we gain a better future as we reach for the stars. Contact the writer: dbehler@m.marywood.edu
Community
March 2015
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Tea Talk allows students to discuss diversity Amanda Duncklee Asst. Community Editor On Feb. 27, the Diversity United Club hosted Tea Talk, an event which discussed issues relating to Black History Month. The facilitators of Tea Talk invited members of the Marywood community to the Liberal Arts Center Room 224 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. to participate in a respectful conversation about issues of diversity. Tiffany Murphy, secretary of the Diversity United Club, facilitated the event. Murphy is a graduate student pursuing a master’s of social work and is also an intern at the Diversity Office at Marywood. “The evening exceeded my expectations,” said Murphy. “People of all different backgrounds and different ages attended and
all were able to express their ide with others.” Topics during the forum ranged from the media’s role in the lives of African Americans, stereotypes surrounding African Americans, certain words used in the media as well as in pop culture, and, in lieu of Black History month, the rich history of African Americans in the United States and around the world. Mental health and counseling graduate student Alan Craig decided to illustrate a way in which people could better know their history as well as get along with others. “My answer is this: we are sitting together, having a peaceful discussion. If this were to happen throughout the country, things could get better,” said Craig. Honar Ali, master of fine arts graduate student, discussed the
importance of peaceful and inclusive discussions. “When we protest or talk about things, it can be complicated due to sensitivity issues,” said Ali. “Situations should not be a race problem; [they] should be a humanity problem. We should all work together and solve issues through education so we can move past societal problems.” Overall, Murphy said she considered the session a success. “I would like our world to know that diversity means inclusion of all persons and all races,” said Murphy. “Everyone has a turn in voicing their opinions, their needs, and yearning to know more about other cultures. Events like this gives an opportunity for everyone no matter what background, to listen to their fellow man.” La’nae Charles, junior arts administration major, is the presi-
Flower sale blossoms for start of Spring Paul Capoccia Community Editor
wood Community Garden invites garden growers to post on their Facebook page in order to share valuable gardening information. Amanda Avery, outreach and assessment librarian, explained how the library’s work as liaison for this sale is a great fit. “The Seed Library is a fledgling project of the library and though it loans seeds versus books, we think it is very relevant to the types of services libraries need to incorporate into the future,” said Avery. “Since we have the Seed Library,
Springtime is arriving sooner than expected. The Marywood Seed Library and Community Garden hosted a spring flower sale to raise funds Graphic Credit/ Connor Moffitt for their organizations. The Greenhouse Project, a non-profit charitabeautiful flowers and provide much ble organization located at the Mcneeded funding for their programs. Nulty Greenhouse Nay Aug Park “The proceeds support our upthat strives to grow a sustainable coming programs like ‘Yoga in the community through education, Greenhouse,’ guided and interfood, and healthy living, supplied pretive nature walks in Wednesthe plants. day evening, educa“We are also happy to use [the Seed tion programs with Those who purchased flowers Library] to promote The Greenhouse schools and groups, had the choice of Project to the Marywood Community.” and nutrition and tulips, hyacinths, gardening educa- Amanda Avery daffodils, and liltion,” said Risse. Outreach & Assessment Librarian at Marywood’s library lies, all arriving in More information random color foil-wrapped pots. All we are also happy to use it to pro- about these groups can be found at flowers were $10.00 each. mote The Greenhouse Project to marywoodseedlibrary.wordpress. Both the Marywood Seed Li- the Marywood Community as well, com, The Marywood Community brary and the Marywood Com- since its mission and Marywood’s Garden Facebook page, and at munity Garden are working to mission have many things in com- scrantongreenhouse.org. All flowpromote better health through gar- mon including health, environmen- ers will be delivered for community dening and to provide better meth- tal stewardship, and community pick-up on March 26. ods to garden. empowerment,” she added about Contact the writer: The Marywood Seed Library pro- The Greenhouse Project providing pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu vides access to free seeds to support the flowers. gardeners and seed savers, accordJane Risse, executive director ing to its WordPress page. Mean- and greenhouse manager, said she while, administrators of The Mary- is glad these sales are able to offer
Photo Credit/ Amanda Duncklee
Students engage in an active discussion during Tea Talk. dent of the Diversity United Club and was ecstatic about how well the Tea Talk went. “The purpose was to gather people together in a comfortable setting where we would all be able to speak about issues minorities face,” said Charles. “My hope was that everyone who came would
leave with new knowledge and this hope was realized. It was our first time doing this, and we do plan to continue with Tea Talks or events of a similar design.” Contact the writer: aduncklee@m.marywood.edu
SAC Spring Fling brings SNL to MU Anne Zukowski Asst. Web Editor SNL is coming to Marywood. SACturday Night Live is, anyway. This year’s Spring Fling will feature a comedy night with Pete Davidson from Saturday Night Live, Nicole Byer from MTV’s Girl Code, and Kevin Barnett from MTV’s Guy Code on April 18. In the beginning of March, the Student Activities Crew (SAC) posted a picture on its Facebook page, asking viewers to guess who would be coming to the event. Each day, a piece of the picture was revealed and viewers were able to comment their guesses. The picture’s caption read: “Curious about Spring Fling ‘15? We’ll give you a hint. Keep checking back as more and more of our Spring Fling details are revealed. Comment your guesses below!” Nicole Southard, freshman art education major, said she actively checked for updates about the event and for the reveal of celebrities’ identities. She was very excited when she correctly guessed the celebrities’ identities, and said she will definitely be attending. “I don’t really know what to expect,” said Southard. “But I’m so
excited that at a small school like Marywood we were able to get known comedians to participate.” SAC revealed the celebrities’ identities on March 18, a month before the event. Some people’s comments on SAC’s Facebook’s photo were disappointed while some were excited. Assistant Director of Student Activities and Leadership Development, Kimberly Coleman, said they changed Spring Fling from a week-long event to a single day a few years ago. “Last year happened on one day, which was a bigger and better turn out.” Coleman said this year’s Spring Fling will take place on a single day rather than continue for a week. Because of tight budgets, the one-day event allows for a bigger event, like bringing celebrities to campus. The night will kick off with a reception and hors d’oeuvres at 7 p.m. The comedy show will start at 8 p.m. and will last for about an hour. T-shirts will be given out, and a chance to get pictures taken or autographs with the celebrities will also happen. Contact the writer: amzukowski@m.marywood.edu
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Zumba and Yoga highlight campus fitness Paul Capoccia Community Editor
A blend of old and new. That’s what Marywood’s recreational fitness classes offer. Two of the Center for Athletics and Wellness’ most popular classes, Yoga and Zumba, provide ageless technique and a new age phenomenon to encourage students to stay active and healthy. Molly Westbrook, one of the yoga instructors at Marywood, enjoys teaching because of the opportunity it gives students to stay active as a community. “[Our fitness classes] provide exercise that is beyond “typical” gym workouts,” said Westbrook. “These type of activities incorporate fun into workouts and allow students to try something new. They can also help students be more motivated to stay active because often times they go in groups together and it provides a social gathering aspect as well.” She also encouraged students who are unsure about the experience to not hold back in trying it. “I always suggest to students that no matter what level they’re at, or think they’re at, that they should give yoga a try. In yoga, and with most fitness classes, you can adapt the workout to your own level and there is minimal
pressure because everyone is focused on doing the workout, having fun, and winding down from their day,” said Westbrook. Brittany Brockner, another yoga instructor, described what inspired her to become a yoga instructor and what continues to motivate her. “[Yoga] not only helped physically, but it taught me to have a
quer negativity,” Michele said. “Positivity is contagious. Zumba empowers me to better myself as a person, and as a role model both physically and mentally. It allows me to be my crazy, bubbly self. It allows me
“I always suggest to students that no matter what level they’re at, or think they’re at, that they should give yoga a try.” -Molly Westbrook,
Yoga Instructor at Marywood deeper connection with others and myself. I learned to control breathing and control stress. Yoga is something I went to for physical means but has turned into a daily practice that keeps me mentally centered and is a union of body, mind, and spirit,” said Brockner. Michele Wroblewski, a Zumba instructor, is able to find a similar passion within Zumba. “I help people help themselves. Even on the worst of days, and I have had plenty, I can walk into that studio and leave everything behind. I empower people to con-
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to express myself.” Marywood’s spring 2015 class schedule has included beginner, general, and intermediate yoga, as well as general Zumba and aqua Zumba. In addition, the Athletics and Wellness Center has offered and continues to offer classes on combination fitness, PiYo, and Pilates. The schedule of fitness classes can be found under fitness center hours on the Marywood Athletics webpage.
ood
promote sh
Alcohol s Amanda Duncklee Assistant Community Editor
Contact the writer: pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
Wellness 1-2-3 program promotes healthy living Autumn Granza Editor-in-Chief Marywood wants its employees to be well. That's why for the past two years they've been offering incentives to help employees make healthy lifestyle choices. Wellness 1-2-3 is a program focused on healthy living that is offered to full-time employ- 3ees, including faculty, staff, and administrators. This is the second year for the program and, according to Patricia Dunleavy, associate vice president for Human Resources and administrator of Wellness 1-2-3, about 300 employees are expected to complete the program this year. Wellness 1-2-3's mission focuses on empowering employees by giving them information that
they can use to make better choices for their own health according to Dunleavy. "For me, the wellness program is about giving employees tools to make good choices for their personal well-being and in doing
as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, height and weight by May 5. To complete the bio-metrics portion, employees can visit Kathleen Uhranowsky, human physiology lab manager and clinical research coordinator, who conducts the screenings. They may 1- Visit a physician also visit their physician for a wellness visit. In return, em2- Complete online profile Complete Wellness workshop ployees will receive a discount on health care premiums for 2015-16. "I think that preventative that, helping all of us control future health care cost increases healthcare is coming to the foreempowerment on many levels," front as a necessity in our health care system because of rising said Dunleavy. Employees must complete an costs," said Uhranowsky. "I think online profile and health assess- that if people can take action to ment, an online wellness work- prevent the need to go on medicashop based on the employee's tion to control their blood sugar or personal assessment, and have blood pressure then that is better basic biometrics measured such in more ways than one."
ealthy life
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In addition to the Wellness 1-2-3, employees can utilize programs on wellness topics and have access to Health Advocate, an online resource for employees. The Human Resources office does not obtain personal health information in relation to Wellness 1-2-3. For more information visit http:// www.marywood.edu/ wellness/ Contact the writer: agranza@m.marywood.edu
On Tuesday, Mar. 17, Marywood University offered free alcohol screenings to students, faculty, staff, and community members in the Fireplace Lounge of the Nazareth Student Center from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event was organized and led by Marywood’s Counseling/ Student Development Center (C/ SDC) and the Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services (DATS) of Lackawanna County. Though Marywood is a dry campus, the university recognizes that alcohol dependency is a serious problem among college students and that it is important to educate the community about the dangers of alcohol consumption. DATS and other clubs on campus set up tables that featured games, free pizza, candy, information about alcohol, and even mocktails to remind students that alcohol is not
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Imperfectly Perfect Week promotes healthy body image Paul Capoccia Community Editor
The Counseling/Student Development Center (C/SDC) organized “Perfectly Imperfect Week,” a week of events dedicated to promoting healthy body image, from Feb. 23 through Feb 27. C/SDC organized the week-long series of events to
coincide with the National Eating Disorders Association’s (NADA) awareness week. Events during the week included Mirror-less Monday, Be True to You Tuesday, Weightless Wednesday, and Free Yourself Friday. On Thursday, the Psychological Services Center offered free confidential eating disorder screenings. On-campus organizations like Peers on Wellness (POW) and Project HEAL also contributed to the week. “It was amazing and [the events] had a great turn out,” said Johanna Lamb, freshman nutrition major and president of Project HEAL. “I think we made a big impact on others and were able to raise more awareness and de-stigmatize eating disorders.”
The entire week focused on themes like promoting healthier body images, empowering individuals to be themselves, and attempting to remove the stigma attached to eating disorders. On Weightless Wednesday, POW promoted healthy body images by showing off life-size models of designers’ often-unrealistic portrayal of the human body and of body types. Throughout the week, groups like Project HEAL wrote positive messages in buildings across campus. Mirrorless Monday was one of the ways students were allowed to engage in promoting positivity with each other by writing on the sheets of paper covering mirrors throughout the campus. “It was a great week,” said Dana Boeh, freshman nutrition and dietetics major and member of
Project HEAL, which helped with the events. “I’m just happy to be part of a club where the main focus is to raise awareness for such an insufficiently recognized issue in this country.” The C/SDC encourages any students who feel they may have an eating problem to get help by contacting them at csdc@marywood.edu, calling them at (570) 348-6245, or visiting in person in McGowan Center Room 1017. Contact the writer: pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/Steph Leone
screening reminds students to be aware of drinking dangers needed to have a delicious beverage. The clubs in attendance were Peers on Wellness (POW), the Psychology Club, the Ally Club, the Student Veteran Alliance, Psi Chi, the National Honor Society for psychology; the Caritas Club, a social work club; and Chi Sigma Iota, the International Honor Society of counseling professionals. The C/SDC table featured questionnaires for those who wished to be screened. Those who filled out the forms spoke with someone from Marywood’s C/SDC, then were evaluated and referred to a counselor if needed for further evaluation. All forms were anonymous and entirely voluntary. “I think that alcohol awareness and the reality that students may have dependency issues is a difficult topic to promote on college campuses,” said Sarah Davis, a grad student in mental health counseling and the C/SDC’s graduate assistant. “Drinking is so normalized in college that people who truly need help go unnoticed because they simply don’t see their drinking as a problem. Alcohol abuse usually starts when
people are college-age, and it is incredibly important to remind people that there is help out there.” POW, an extension of the C/ SDC, had several activities to promote awareness. One of these ac-
said Ashley Blasi, a senior preprofessional biology major and president of POW. “People also often mix their alcohol with sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can be dangerous. The crash from all
“Think about it this way: Would you rather get in trouble or lose a friend?” -Stephanie Piccoletti,
Senior Psychology Student
tivities was the “Pour Your Own Drink” game where participants poured water, which represented hard liquor, into a cup. The “liquor” poured was an estimate of how much participants thought they consumed in a single drink. Once poured, POW members measured the amount of water in the cup by pouring the water in shot glasses as a way to reveal how much alcohol the participant would have consumed. “People are often surprised by how much ‘alcohol’ they poured,”
the sugar furthers the depressive nature of alcohol and the caffeine can create an antagonistic reaction with the alcohol since one is a depressant and the other is a stimulant.” Stephanie Piccoletti, senior psychology student, represented Psi Chi and offered information on what to do if someone is harmed while drinking. “It is so incredibly important to call an ambulance or the police if there is a serious situation involving alcohol,” said Piccoletti.
“Having a good friend around is valuable during drastic situations because that friend could help and even save a life by simply being there and making that call.” Under Pennsylvania’s Medical Amnesty Law, any self-identifying individual who seeks help for an intoxicated person by calling the police, ambulance or campus security and stays with the intoxicated person to ensure their safety is granted amnesty despite any alcohol consumption or possession that may have occurred. This law also applies to those who are underage. Piccoletti stressed the importance of seeking help despite any personal fears a person may have about calling for help. “Think about it this way,” said Piccoletti. “Would you rather get in trouble or lose a friend? You can deal with consequences, but you can’t bring someone back.” For the past 10 years, representatives from DATS have participated in Marywood’s alcohol screening day to demonstrate to people that there is help available for those who seek it.
“Our goal is to provide as much education about substance abuse as we possibly can,” said Kevin McLaughlin, the chief executive officer of DATS. “Some people are hesitant to come forward because of how stigmatized dependency issues are. Here’s the thing: it’s not a will power issue, it’s a psychological issue. People can’t always recover on their own, and we are here because we want to make sure people have a place to turn to.” Douglas Vreeland is a mental health counseling grad student at Marywood as well as a drug and alcohol treatment specialist at DATS. “Helping people get better is what I know I want to do,” said Vreeland. “It is of the utmost importance to let people know that there are available resources. Making that first call is hard, but we’re not here to shame or penalize anyone; we are here with open arms extended to reach out and care for people.” Contact the writer: alduncklee@m.marywood.edu
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Autumn Granza Editor-in-Chief
Name: Briana Galea Major: English Year: Senior Hometown: Eynon, Pa. Briana Galea is a senior English major who will be attending Syracuse University in the Fall of 2015 to pursue a Master’s of Library and Information Science degree. Q: What school will you be attending for Library and Information Science and why?
Amanda Duncklee Asst. Community Editor Ever wonder how to network or how to market effectively? If so, the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter at Marywood is here to help. In 1968, the Public Relations Society of America founded the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and the group has been going strong ever since. Marywood started its own PRSSA chapter in 2013, and the organization continues to progress. With nearly 300 chapters across the United States, PRSSA wants to allow students the opportunity to become skilled in public relations. PRSSA’s vision is summarized by the acronym G.E.A.R.S. which stands for growth, education, ad-
Community
March 2015
A: I will be attending Syracuse University. It is only two hours away from where I live now so I think that will be really convenient. Also, I think Syracuse has a really good reputation so that was definitely a factor. Q: What goes into being a master of Library and Information Science? A: A lot of people don’t realize that you need a master’s degree to be a librarian but, what you have to do is actually very hard work. You have to help students learn how to deal with information and you conduct your own research and figure out ways to better the library system. Q: What made you want to get a master’s degree in Library and Information Science? A: When I first started trying to decide what I was going to do
vancement, relationships, and students. G.E.A.R.S. is used to remind members as well as those interested in PRSSA that the group strives to provide students with the skills needed to be highly qualified professionals in today’s competitive world. “PRSSA is important to the Marywood community because it provides an outlet for professional growth,” said PRSSA president Jessica Waclawski, senior advertising/public relations major. “It helps people take what they learn in the classroom and further that knowledge in ways that transcend a classroom setting.” “I would like for PRSSA to become a helpful tool for other students on campus who may be seeking help with any networking and public relations needs,” said vice president Irene Torresani, a
after I graduated from Marywood I thought that I was going to go and be a professor of English, but I was strongly advised not to because there just aren’t any jobs in the humanities in higher education right now. You would have to be a hired adjunct and you can’t live off of that salary. So, I was trying to figure out what I could do that was still similar to that
A: You can get a job in a public library, a medical library, and an academic library. I am thinking that where I want to be is in an academic library just because I love that setting. I think that is where I’d do best. Q: What do you do in your free time? A: What I do at school as an
“I decided that a degree in library science would be great because the job market is better and I really like the academic setting.” - Briana Galea
senior English major
but more realistic so I decided that a degree in library science would be great because the job market is better and I really like the academic setting so, getting a degree in library science, I can still be in that setting and I think that is something that is really important. Q: What kind of jobs are available in the Library and Information Science field?
English major is I do a lot of reading and I think that that is definitely a hobby of mine. I don’t think loving to read is the only reason for being an English major, but I love being in school. I consider school a hobby. And also besides that, spend time with the friends I have here and my boyfriend. Q: What are your goals after graduation?
Photo Credit/ Amanda Duncklee
PRSSA members meet on March 19 to plan upcoming projects. sophomore advertising and pub- opportunities. lic relations major. “Our mission Last semester, the PRSSA is to become a strong presence went to the American Advertising among the Marywood and Scran- Federation National Conference ton community as a provider of from Oct. 10 to 14 in Washington, a beneficial, reliable, and useful D.C. The conference was a twoservice.” day event that focused on using In addition to promoting lo- social media in advertising. This cal events and groups, PRSSA semester, the PRSSA attended also attends conferences to learn PRSSA’s 2015 Regional Confermore about the public relations ence in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., from field and to gain invaluable in- Feb. 27 to 28. The conference foformation about potential job cused on public relations roles
A: Well after graduation I am taking the summer to work with commonlit.org. [That] is a website that puts text online for free for middle school teachers. So what I will be doing is I’ll be writing discussion questions that go along with text and the point of that is to teach what literature means and make reading exciting for kids. So, I’m going to be doing that over the summer, make some money, and next fall I’ll be going to Syracuse. Q: What are your plans after you graduate from Syracuse? A: What I hope to get out of a career after Syracuse is, like I said, I want to work in an academic library. There are many jobs within that so, I am not entirely sure exactly what I will be doing yet but I think I am going to take the two years at Syracuse to figure it out. Other than that, I am willing to start at the bottom and work my way up. But, it’s something I still have to figure out. Contact the writer: agranza@m.marywood.edu
and opportunities in various job fields. “The general goal of attending these conferences is to help all members understand how the professional world works,” said Torresani. “It’s a great opportunity for all students, even if they are not involved in PRSSA. We go to make connections with potential employers and network ourselves.” Currently, PRSSA at Marywood is working with the nonprofit organization Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, NEPA Affiliate, to promote their event, Gala for the Cure. This is the 25th Gala for the Cure and it will be held on October 9, 2015. “Though all advertising and public relations majors are enlisted in the club once they enter the program, students of all majors are encouraged to join,” said Torresani. Those interested in PRSSA should visit PRSSA’s Facebook page at Marywood University Chapter PRSSA. Contact the writer: alduncklee@m.marywood.edu
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
March 2015
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Marywood Players bring Broadway to campus
Photo credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
Marywood Players take their final bow at the “The Game of Life: A Broadway Musical Revue” performance at the March 20 show in the Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts. Katlynn Whitaker March 20 through March 22 in numbers from hit Broadway muPhotography/ the Black Box Theatre of the sicals. Some numbers depicted Asst. Design Editor Sette LaVerghetta Center for Per- childhood, such as “Hard Knock forming Arts. The show served as Life” from “Annie.” Other numThe Marywood Players pre- a fundraiser and showcase for the bers illustrated the difficulties of sented “The Game of Life: A student theater group. growing up, such as “9 to 5” from Broadway Musical Revue” from“The Game of Life” featured 12 “9 to 5 The Musical” and “I Wish
I Could Go Back to College” from “Avenue Q.” The president of the Players, Nick Grevera, Junior Theatre Major, explained that the inspiration for the show came while the club members were on their way to a theatre festival one day. “I thought about life….we all started pitching in songs about life and the process of going through big milestones,” said Grevera. The performance was filled with singing, dancing, and colorful costumes and scenes. The numbers allowed each individual performer to showcase his or her unique talents and styles. At the end of the show every member gathered on stage to perform “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” from “Spamalot,” an appropriate number to demonstrate the club’s camaraderie. The Players emphasize working together as a team of different ages and majors. Every student is welcome to join, not just theatre and music majors. Darren Ce-
mentina, freshman Theatre Major, explained that cooperation is a good concept for performers to grasp. “We build each other up as we go along,” said Cementina. “We don’t make anyone bigger than the other. It’s a good thing to have in college.” The Players frequently work in association with the theatre program at Marywood. They work on different theatre productions both behind the scenes and onstage. When asked about his favorite part of being with the Players, Grevera said that he enjoyed working with performers who “can come together and perform, and run tech and make a perfect show.” For more information on the Marywood Players and its upcoming events, visit the group’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ MarywoodPlayers. Contact the writer: kmwhitaker@m.marywood.edu
Jazz Ensemble honors Gershwin with historic performance Kyle Clouse Correspondent Marywood University’s student jazz ensemble celebrated the timeless classics of American musician and composer George Gershwin as the theme of this year’s spring jazz festival. The George Gershwin Jazz Festival was held at Marywood’s Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts on March 21 at 8 p.m. Admission was free and open to both students and the general public. Under the direction of Jazz Ensemble Conductor Thomas Heinze, university students performed alongside faculty players, alumni, and special guests. Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies and faculty performer David Jumper, assisted in the orchestration of the performance as well as performing with the faculty band. “This festival offers something for everyone,” said Jumper.
The two-night event payed tribute to the legacy and influence of Gershwin through performance of his original jazz instrumentals “Rhapsody in Blue” and “An American in Paris” as well as arrangements inspired by the music of Gershwin’s Southern opera “Porgy and Bess.” The festival commenced with a historic performance of the original “Rhapsody in Blue” written for jazz band and solo piano. The jazz ensemble was played in its entirety by a performing band of twenty-three musicians replicating that of the Paul Whiteman Orchestra, who recorded the song with Gershwin in 1924. The performance also featured Marywood’s Music, Theater, and Dance Department Co-Chair, Dr. Rick Hoffenberg, playing solo piano. Conductor Heinze explained that this performance of “Rhapsody in Blue” was “so historically significant” because the song has rarely been performed live in its original form. “This is how
the original ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ was played, and meant to be performed,” said Heinze. Besides jazz instrumentals, the festival also featured jazz style vocal arrangements inspired by a variety of original Gershwin melodies. Marywood alumni Lea Beth Evans and Jessica Dunleavy returned to the stage to sing Gershwin inspired arrangements that were recorded by American songstress Ella Fitzgerald. Another Marywood alum, Christopher DiMattio, who previously played at 2012 Cole Porter Jazz Festival, also returned to sing Gershwin arrangements made famous by Frank Sinatra. Dimattio is senior vice president for investments at First National Community Bank in Dunmore. For more information on upcoming events visit http://www. marywood.edu/mtd/events/ or call 570-348-6268. Contact the writer: kclouse@m.marywood.edu
Photo credit/ Alex Weidner
Bryan Cowan from Wallenpaupak High School practices for the George Gershwin Festival.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Movie Review: “Insurgent” is a bad sign of what’s to come Vincent Schultz Managing Editor After watching “Insurgent,” I have finally come to the realization that novel series made into films are doomed to suffer from a severe case of mediocrity. Long gone are the days where stories are adapted in creative and interesting ways. Instead, we are left with the rushed and thoughtless product of studio greed. Before this rant gets out of hand, let’s talk specifically about the movie. Directed by Robert Schwentke, “Insurgent” serves as the second installment of the “Divergent Series,” which follows Beatrice (Tris) Prior (Shailene Woodley) against the all-ruling alliances
which threaten her post-apocalyptic society. As Tris and Four (Theo James) search for assistance and answers, the leader of the Erudite Faction, Jeanine Matthews (Kate Winslet), continues to attack the growing rebellion. Beyond this summary, “Insurgent” does not have much going for it. It plays very similar to its predecessor with little variation or improvement. The biggest difference between the two is probably that “Insurgent” is 20 minutes shorter. Despite taking place in a dystopian Chicago with factions, war, and a ton of generic CGI; “Insurgent” is a lazy-river type of movie. With slow build up and tame action scenes, I somehow left the
theater caring less about these characters lives than I did before. This is perhaps the most disappointing thing about “Insurgent.” There is so much talent throughout the series between Winslet, Woodley, and Miles Teller, but there is not a shred of depth within the roles. The interactions and emotions throughout the movie seem so forced, it’s at times hard to watch. “Insurgent” will be a box-office hit and with two more green-lit sequels, there will unfortunately be more of the “Divergent Series” to come. It’s up to the studio to decide whether or not they want to put their $110 million budgets to use and give fans a proper adaptation. There are no doubt strong nov-
el-based movies out there. From “Lord of the Rings” to “Harry Potter” and “The Hunger Games,” there are films that are doing justice to the source material. Unfortunately, however, with series like “Twilight”, “Divergent,” “Beautiful Creatures,” and “50 Shades of Grey,” it seems good adaptations have become the exception, not the rule. I’m giving “Insurgent” 2/5 kernels. Contact the writer:: vmschultz@m.marywood.edu
Marywood and U of S collaborate for Taipei Folk Dance event
Graphic credit/ Connor Moffitt
Autumn Granza Editor-in-Chief Collaborative efforts by Marywood University and The University of Scranton seek to educate students, faculty, staff, and the community about Asian culture. A cooperative grant and part of a larger grant from the Taiwan Ministry of Culture allowed Marywood University and The University of Scranton to host the Taipei Folk Dance Theatre from Taiwan and a conference on Asian Studies. Dr. Philip Jenkins, chairperson and associate professor of philosophy, and Ann Pang-White, direc-
tor of Asian studies and professor of philosophy at the University of Scranton, have been working together to ensure the success of the Taipei Folk Dance Theatre event as well as an Asian Studies Conference that will be held at the University of Scranton March 28 and 29. “I think probably this is one of the first large scale collaborations between the colleges,” said Pang-White. “I hope that we can do more mutual collaborations; it is great for our local community when two universities combine to work on a project. It brings the communities together.” The two faculty members have been working on events this semester and last semester that have been building up to the conference. Beginning in October ,the University of Scranton hosted the first installment of the three-part series of films directed by Ang Lee titled “Three Decades of Fearless,” where “The Wedding Banquet” was shown. Then
Marywood hosted the second installment, featuring “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” The University of Scranton hosted the final installment in March “The Life of Pi.” All three films were followed by a discussion and a question and answer session led by experts on Ang Lee’s work. Before each film showing, 20 invited guests attended a catered dinner with that night’s film experts who were speaking. Each film hosted a different expert on Ang Lee’s films. The film series was free and open to the public. The Asian Studies conference is also free and open to the public. It will kick off on Saturday, March 28 with a keynote address by Nancy S. Steinhardt, Ph.D., professor and department chair of East Asian Languages and Cultures at The University of Pennsylvania. Buses will shuttle attendees to Marywood University to see the Taipei Folk Dance Theatre.
The Taipei Folk Dance Theatre will perform in the Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts on March 28 at 7:30 p.m. “It is a unique opportunity to see a world class dance group perform right here on our campus,” said Jenkins. The following day’s agenda, Sunday, March 29, will include speaker presentations, workshops, and art exhibits from international scholars and artists. At 1 p.m., attendees have the opportunity to take the Taipei Folk Dance Theatre Workshop. The conference will conclude with keynote speaker Stephen C. Angle, Ph.D., chair at the College of East Asian Studies; professor of Philosophy at Wesleyan University, followed by refreshments. To pre-register for the conference and to register for the Taipei Folk Dance Theatre Workshop visit, nepaasianstudies2015. wordpress.com. Contact the writer: agranza@m.marywood.edu
March 28 through April 26: Senior Art Exhibit in the Mahady Gallery. Gallery reception from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. March 28: Taipei Folk Dance Theatre Performance in the Sette La Verghetta Center for Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m. April 10: Author Christopher Phillips, lecture and discussion titled, “What Makes Life Worth Living?” at 7:00 p.m. in the Swartz Center for Spiritual Life, Conference Room B. April 12: Percussion Ensemble Concert at 4:00 p.m. in the Sette La Verghetta Center for Performing Arts. April 15: DIY Event Series in the Fireplace Lounge at Nazareth Student Center. April 17: Guitar Ensemble Concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Marian Chapel, directed by Charles Truitt. April 18: Children’s Theatre Production of “The Invisible Dragon,” and interactive production by Patricia Clapp at 11:00 a.m. in the Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts. Admission is $4 dollars for the general public. April 18: “The Endless Mountain Spirit” Exhibition Reception, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Suraci Gallery. April 18: SAC-turday Night Live at 8:00 p.m.in the Latour Room in theNazareth Student Center. The event will feature comedians Pete Davidson, Nicole Byer, and Kevin Barnett.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
March 2015
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A flight worth taking: Memoirs of Paris
Photo credit/ Juliette Meyers
Over a spring break trip to Paris with the art department, Juliette Meyers, senior communication major, captured this photo on her way to the Louvre Museum. Juliette Meyers A&E Editor Flight attendants hand out greasy turkey sandwiches, approximately 43 minutes before landing, on Flight 55 from Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport to Newark International.
In a cheerful tone, the pilot announces on the intercom that we have begun our initial decent and the weather in Newark is a mild 55 degrees with gusty winds. The flight attendants continue to glide up and down the aisle offering extra sandwiches that no one seems to want. As the cart
appears in front of my row, the plane dips harshly below a cloud and the seatbelt sign dings on. The passenger seated next to me, a French woman in a blue blazer similar to the ones the flight attendants wear, looks at me with an expression that seems to be saying, ‘Here we go!’
Evenings of Prayer Bringing about God’s dream for this beautiful, yet wounded world.
The Sisters of IHM invite you to join us for prayer IHM Center Chapel 2300 Adams Avenue (top of University Avenue) Scranton, PA
Questions? communications@sistersofihm.org 570-346-5404
Thursday 7:00 p.m. March 12 April 16 May 14
In a few short minutes, the flight attendants have disappeared and I feel like I am on my own. The plane starts a series of heavy plummets down and fast zips up as if the pilot can’t make up his mind as to whether to take us to earth or outer space. As a fearful flier, it would seem to be a natural instinct to regret making the entire trip because of this dreadful moment but it isn’t. In fact, if a magic Genie granted me the chance to relive my week in Paris with the stipulation that I must endure this terrible landing one more time, I wouldn’t hesitate to say yes. My head bobbles back and forth, with every motion of the plane. I rack my brain for a way to avoid a panic attack while flying 30,000 feet above ground. I begin to visualize myself in all my favorite spots throughout the trip. My tired, cold body walking up the stairs of the Sainte-Chapelle, a medieval Gothic chapel, to be enveloped by the warm colors of stained glass shining on my skin. Opening the narrow latched
window in the tiniest hotel room at the Comfort Inn on Mouffetard, to see a flower box full of red carnations, and a cobblestone street below. Sitting in the sun on a curb by the river, crunching on crispy French fries while the Eiffel Tower peeks through a sea of Parisian style apartment buildings. Criss-cross shadows on my face, as I stand below the famous glass pyramid at the Louvre Museum, never once forgetting that some people only dream of getting the chance to see the inside. I come back to my senses, peer out the window as tiny houses become larger, and feel the wheels of the plane bounce onto the runway. The wheels spin vigorously on the pavement as if they will never stop. I secretly hope that they don’t, and instead the plane sails back into the sky, off on another adventure. Contact the writer: jmeyers@m.marywood.edu
Performance held in honor of Women’s History Month Francelis Capellan Assistant A&E Editor In celebration of Women’s History Month, Marywood University hosted a new musical theater production called “Ain’t I a Woman!” The performance was held in the Sette LaVerghetta Center for the Performing Arts on Tues., March 17. The show was about the life of four African American women: Zora Neale Hurston, a novelist and anthropologist; Clementine Hunter, a folk artist; Sojourner Truth, an ex-slave and abolitionist; and Fannie Lou Hanner, a civil rights worker. Each woman shared stories about her struggles, strength, and dignity. “The thing that stood out the most for me was the contrast like the suffering and also the joy throughout the show. There was so much pain, but these women
were so proud,” said Sr. Mary Anne Zimmer, associate professor of religious studies. The musical part of the show was based on the time frame of each individual woman, including blues of the deep South, urban Jazz, and contemporary concert music by African Americans. Live music by the Core Ensemble filled the atmosphere with spirituality, according to one attendee. “You felt like you were in the presence of suffering and the reality of that, but you found it inspirational in that no matter what the circumstances of these women were, you just see that there is something else happening in your spirit that’s indomitable,” said Dr. Melinda Krokus, assistant professor of religious studies. Contact the writer: fcapellan@m.marywood.edu
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SPORTS
March 2015
Baseball preview: How far can this Pacer team go? John Ferraro Assistant Sports Editor
As the days get longer and temperatures rise, the anticipation for baseball season is unmatched. With that anticipation, comes high expectations for the Marywood baseball team. Last year, the Pacers finished the season 13-17, with only five wins in the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC), placing them sixth overall. But second year assistant coach Jason Thiel’s expectations do not mirror last year’s sub-par finish. “Anything short of the playoffs this year would be a disappointment for us,” said Thiel. The Pacers are not far off from their playoff run in 2012. That team finished 9-9 in the CSAC, and reached the Semifinals of the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) playoffs before losing to Wesley College. Sixth-year Head Coach Jerry Davis led that 2012 team and doesn’t see this team missing the playoffs. “I don’t see very many weaknesses, if any at all,” said Davis. The coach instead sees an in-
credibly balanced team for this season. “I think we are going to be really strong offensively and defensively. We also have great pitching,” said Davis. The great pitching Davis refers to is led by the team’s most valuable player in 2014, Joseph DiLoreto. The left-hander, a senior architecture major, posted a team best 1.62 earned run average (ERA) in eight appearances last season. “We look for and expect big things from Joey,” Thiel said. In terms of fielding and hitting, both coaches agree that second baseman Vince Rebar is the player to watch. Rebar, a junior business management major, received honorable mention all-conference player. In 18 games for the Pacers, Rebar led the team with a .541 slugging percentage. He combined that with a .966 fielding percentage. Although a hamstring injury last year shortened Rebar’s season, Thiel is confident he can bounce back. “For him to come back and play a full season, I think he is going to be a player to watch not only on the team but in the conference as well,” Thiel said. Another big key to the Pacers
success is Eric Pulkkinen, a junior business management major, who plays a variety of positions including center field, shortstop and pitcher. Pulkkinen doesn’t mind moving from position to position. “I’ll go wherever coach [Davis] needs me,” said Pulkkinen. Pulkkinen was named First Team All-CSAC last year and led the team with a .380 batting average in all 30 of the Pacer games. He said this team can’t take any individual or team success for granted playing in the CSAC. “We have to worry about every single team,” Pulkkinen explained. Davis echoed those remarks, saying that the CSAC is “very very deep.” He went on to highlight two big threats for the Pacers. “I expect Keystone College and Newman University to be the biggest challenges in the conference this year.” said Davis. Both Keystone and Newman have made the playoffs each of the last four seasons, with Keystone finishing first in the CSAC every year. But Thiel stressed that the conference is loaded overall, not just Keystone. “The CSAC is deep all the way through, there is really no nights
Photo Credit/ Alex Weidner
Due to the inclement weather, the baseball team has had to practice in the gym. The pratices consist of batting drills and fielding drills. off,” said Thiel. In order for the Pacers to keep pace in the CSAC, they have to rely on the fundamentals, Thiel explained. “We have to be able to put good at bats together and move base runners, put some pressure on the defense,” said Thiel. Davis said that the team is a lot like the major-league St. Louis Cardinals. “We are strong defensively. Even though we have a lot of power hitters, we look to bunt and play small ball.” Last year the Pacers showcased the ability to move runners with two of their players reaching 10 steals and another player snatching up eight bases. Thiel said every Pacer base-
ball team always looks to excel in the intangibles of the game -- the things that cannot be measured in statistics or play on the field. He said he tries to instill these “off the field values” as readily as the sport’s fundamentals. “I try [to] teach my players to respect the game and respect the opponent. I let them know that they are representing the university both on and off the field,” said Thiel. Davis also stresses intangibles like a great work ethic. “Show up on time and play hard. Play smart, play hard, play with confidence, and never quit,” Davis explained. Contact the writer: jwferraro@m.marywood.edu
Men’s and women’s lacrosse look to score big Evan Felser Sports Editor The Marywood Pacers men’s and women’s lacrosse programs have big goals for the upcoming season. Last season, the men’s team finished the season with a 10-9 record, including a 5-1 mark in the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC). The team reached the CSAC championship game, losing to Cabrini College. The team qualified for the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Mid Atlantic Region Tournament, but was knocked out in the first round by Marymount University. Heading this year’s team as interim head coach is Tyler Perrelle, who was an assistant coach of last year’s team. Nine seniors form the leader-
ished last season with a 9-9 record. The Lady Pacers made it to the CSAC playoff, reaching the semifinals before losing to Neumann University. Head Coach Katie Tutak enters her second year, heading a unit with only one senior, and five juniors. The rest of the fourteen players are underclassmen. Stacy Griffing, junior interior architecture and design major, believes that the number of unPhoto Credit/ Alex Weidner derclassmen is not a weakness, The Women’s lacrosse team took home a victory against Notre but rather a strength for the team. Dame of Maryland University on March 21. “The strength of our team this year is the number of people on ship core of this year’s team. One prove our practice morale through team. This year we have around of the nine seniors, Brandon Ter- more intensity and competition at 20 players, eleven of them being lizzi, a marketing major, believes practice,” said Terlizzi. freshmen. The past three years the team can reach its goals. “I believe that we can win the that I have been on this team, we “Some goals for this season are CSAC championship this year. struggled with having one or no to win a CSAC championship and Marywood has never won a CSAC subs. In the past we have had to improve our play in the first quar- championship so we are very hunplay teams man-down because we ter of games, which has histori- gry for one,” said Terlizzi. did not have enough people to fill cally been lacking. And to also imThe women’s lacrosse team fin-
the field,” said Griffing. Those eleven freshmen Griffing mentioned have a key role on the team. “We have eleven freshmen this year that bring talents in all different areas on the field. They all hold a huge role on our team this year and being successful,” Griffing said. Griffing think this team has the ability to win the CSAC championship, thanks in part to the depth they have on this year’s team. Players on both men’s and women’s lacrosse teams say they are geared up and ready to take on this upcoming spring season, expecting to be playing into early May and looking to hoist the CSAC championship trophy. Contact the writer: efelser@m.marywood.edu
SPORTS
Stephanie Bagniewski Year: Junior Major: Biology Hometown: Cranford, N.J. Evan Felser Sports Editor When did you start playing softball? I started playing softball probably when I was in the womb of my mom. My sister played softball and my brother played baseball. My mom and dad were the coaches for them. I started off being the bat girl for them growing up. I would play with the older girls, and something about it made me want to keep playing. What is your favorite part about playing softball? I think the best part about playing softball is the chemistry you have with your teammates and
March 2015
the players on the other team. The friendships that you form, which last a lifetime from travel ball, to high school ball, the bond you form lasts forever. Who is your favorite professional athlete? My favorite professional athlete is Jenny Finch, who is a softball player. She is an amazing pitcher that has won gold medals for Team USA. And even though softball is no longer in the Olympics, she is an inspiration for all girls playing softball. She has great words of wisdom that she gives us every day. What music do you listen to before the game? My music choice before a game is honestly the most random selection that you would probably think. I listen to rap, to musicals, and pop music. What is your favorite part about being on a team sport? The best part about being on a team sport is again the connec-
tions. It is great being able to trust people that you play with. Having that trust with not only yourself, but also your teammates and coaches. Knowing that they’re always there for you no matter what happens.
What has softball taught you about life? Softball has taught me to be who you are, and trust everyone around you; it’s a team sport. Trusting everyone around you and playing together as a team.
What has been the highlight of your softball career?
What are some of your duties as captain of the team?
I would have to say the highlight of my softball career was when we made it to the NCAA tournament. I hit my first collegiate home run and that put us ahead in the game.
Being captain, you’re chosen to be a leader. So I have coach calling all hours of the day, telling me to relay messages. I think that teaches me not only something for now in life, but also in the future. To make sure that everyone is informed, which has helped bring everyone closer together.
What are some of your strengths on the softball field? I think some of the strengths that I bring to the softball field are being a team player. Not playing for myself, but for everyone around me. I know my parents are always there at my games. So I’m also playing for them, and I use the skills that they taught me. Also, to help my teammates who also help me. So just being a overall team player.
What do you plan on doing after Marywood? After Marywood, I plan on becoming a successful physician’s assistant and hopefully paying my parents back for all they have given to me. Contact the writer: efelser@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/ Alex Weidner
Catch a Marywood Pacer home game now through April 15 March
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Softball Double Header vs Keystone College 3p.m. and 5 p.m.
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Men’s Tennis vs Baptist Bible College 3:30 p.m.
March
March
March
April
2
Baseball Double Header vs Neumann University 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
March
30
March
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Men’s Lacrosse vs Immaculata University 1 p.m.
Baseball vs Centenary 3 p.m.
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Baseball vs Pennsylvania College of Technology 1 p.m.
April
April
Men’s Lacrosse vs Centenary College 4 p.m.
Baseball vs Kings College 4 p.m.
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Women’s Lacrosse Alvernia University 4 p.m.
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April
9
Women’s Lacrosse vs Gwynedd Mercy University 4 p.m.
Graphic Credit/ Kelsey Van Horn
April
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Men’s Lacrosse vs Keystone 4 p.m.
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March 2015
In honor of Marywood’s Centennial Year, The Wood Word will be running items from the University’s archives to explore the history of the campus. This is what The Wood Word appeared like fifteen years ago.