The Alvernian November 2020

October/November 2020

THIS ISSUE

Debates: Recapping the Good, Bad, and Ugly Photo Courtesy of Lucas Sankey on Unsplash

what’s in

Volume 58 Issue 5

Sports During COVID-19 Matt Mitchell Contributing Writer

Clare’s Cupboard

Mental Health Counseling

Fall Activities

The Presidential race will finally meet its end on Tuesday, November 3. The two major candidates for office, Republican incumbent Donald J. Trump and Democratic challenger Joseph Biden, had a televised debate on Tuesday, September 29.

Both President Trump and former Vice President Biden shared jabs and insults as they attempted to debate issues of health care, race, law enforcement, the Supreme Court and environmental change.

Most reviews of the first Presidential debate concluded that the matchup was very difficult to watch for the American public. In one of the most disorganized and crazy debates in American history, Trump and Biden continuously talked over each other and broke the debate rules in ways large and small, at times throwing insults unrelated to the debate topics.

Trump’s behavior was the worse of the two.

The President constantly interrupted Biden and the moderator, and regularly insulted Biden’s family and intellect. President Trump was also criticized after the debate for failing to denounce white supremacy.

When asked a direct question about recent right-wing violence, Trump dodged the question and instead said that known white supremacist organization, The Proud Boys, should “stand back and stand by” during election day.

Biden also did not always maintain decorum, being riled up by President Trump’s

baiting and sometimes stooping to his level. Biden used similar insults, calling Trump a “clown” multiple times. At one point, Biden became so frustrated with Trump that he said, “Will you just shut up, man?” (The President did not shut up.)

The debate was more of a boxing match than a civil argument. The conclusion of the debate did not reassure any American who was not already secure in their voting choice. It’s difficult to argue that either candidate won after transforming the program from a debate into a live street brawl.

I interviewed a student at Alvernia University on his reaction to the debate, and his response just about sums up the way the American population was feeling postdebate. “It was complete and utter chaos. It was really scary to see that one of these two candidates are going to be in charge of running our future in a time as chaotic as now. I hope to see a lot more poise and leadership out of them come time for the second debate. I just want our country to be in good hands.”

The Vice-Presidential Debate took place the following week on October 8. This debate featured Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Kamala Harris. There was some optimism at the time that this debate would be more professional than the disastrous presidential debate from the prior week.

The candidates were faced with topics on the pandemic, health care, taxes, climate change, and more.

The American people were given the mercy of a civil and orderly debate, though

there were accusations after the fact about each candidate’s decorum.

Observers did see both sides making good points and avoiding questions. Pence seemed to be on the run more often, avoiding questions or changing the topic presented.

Observers said he debated well, sometimes pushing Harris into a corner and forcing her to avoid questions herself. For example, he asked about her intent to pack the Supreme Court with people of their choice to undermine the decision to assign Amy Coney Barret, a decision made by Donald Trump.

Many people who support the Republican party and nominees Donald Trump and Mike Pence feel very strongly about the evasiveness of Biden and Harris on this topic. Mike Pence had some words for her about this during their debate. “Your party is actually openly advocating adding seats to the Supreme Court, which has had nine seats for 150 years, if you don’t get your way,” Pence said. “This is a classic case of if you can’t win by the rules you are going to change the rules.

Now, you have refused to answer the question. Joe Biden has refused to answer the question, so I think the American people would really like to know if Judge Amy Coney Barrett is confirmed to the Supreme Court of the United States, are you and Joe Biden, if somehow you win this election, going to pack the Supreme Court to get your way?”

Both notedly avoided questions regarding the Supreme Court and potentially challenging

the Roe v. Wade decision.

President Donald Trump has said it is “certainly possible” that his Supreme Court pick will be involved in a ruling revisiting the landmark 1973 decision that legalized abortion in the US. Many people are upset about this decision. Abortion is a very sensitive topic for a lot of Americans, and many people also feel that the government taking away their rights to their own body is outrageous.

Biden and Harris have taken the opposite side, in which they want to uphold the decision of Roe v. Wade, leading to their illusion of the questions regarding their plan for Supreme Court revision.

Vice President Pence faced some critique from some on the left for trying to speak over Harris. Throughout the evening, Harris was careful to assert herself during her answers at moments of crosstalk. “Mr. Vice President, I’m speaking. I’m speaking,” she regularly said, with increasing vigor as the night continued.

Overall, the VicePresidential debate was much better than the one conducted by the Presidential candidates, but also failed to push either side too far in either direction. In a country as divided as it is now, debates may not hold much power in American’s decision making. Many people are more disheartened by the immature and chaotic handling of the first debates that it is overshadowing the debate topics themselves. In the end, it seemed that the one that stole the show was the fly that landed atop Mike Pence’s head.

October/November 2020

t h e alver nian

POLITICS Voting: Why is it Important?

Mackenzie Coombs Contributing Editor

Managing Editor Sidney Goodman Layout Sidney Goodman Section Editors Mackenzie Coombs Joely Griffith Anastasia Tomko Contributing Writers Kailey Conrad Victor de Avila Daviliana Gil Jared Montalto Matt Mitchell Carly LePore Trace Parker Alexxa Powers Dion Thorpe Teyon Thorpe Faculty Advisor Dr. Ryan Lange

The Alvernian is the official student newspaper of Alvernia University.

Articles submitted for consideration into The Alvernian should be written in some semblance of AP style. Letters to the editor, requests for advertisements, and general comments and questions may be submitted to ryan.lange@alvernia.edu.

The editors reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and length.

The views expressed in The Alvernian are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the student body, faculty, staff, administration, or sponsors.

The Presidential race willThe upcoming election provides another opportunity to talk about the importance of voting. Americans of voting age have a civic duty to vote each November by Election Day. But how does your vote matter?

Over the course of American history, there have been times when not everyone was able to vote. In fact, only white landowners were eligible to vote in the 1800s, leaving women and people of color out of the equation. The long journey to enfranchisement for women and minorities is in many ways still continuing. Voting is one of the most significant things that one can do for their community and for themselves. Although at times during the Presidential election it feels pointless, your vote does matter.

In addition, the ability to vote gives American citizens a sense of power over who they

want to run this country. The Constitution was established as a democratic republic, which means that the people govern themselves. This means that the people have the power to vote in who they want to run in federal, state and local areas. These candidates represent the ideas and concerns that the people of the United States may have. But those who aren’t registered to vote don’t have the ability—or legal right—to contribute to who they want in those offices.

One vote can make all the difference in an election. In the 1960 election, Richard Nixon could’ve been elected President of the United States if only one person from all the designated voting areas if they had voted the opposite of what they had. But then, we wouldn’t have had John F. Kennedy as our President.

Another example of this, is in 1845, Texas wouldn’t have become a state if one U.S. Senator voted different than the end result, but we all know that Texas became a

part of the Union in a 27-25 vote. Without the right to vote, citizens wouldn’t be able to choose who’s fit to run an entire country. Knowing this, it’d become a dictatorship and the next in line would be tossed into power. Voting is a cornerstone in creating a better, united nation— whatever the outcome may be.

Voting isn’t only about the President. In local elections, it’s about voters expressing what they want in their communities. Perhaps they want to add roads, fix certain areas of their town or building bigger buildings as the community’s population grows. It’s about changing where one is from and creating a better atmosphere for the next generation of young people. We vote to make our country a better place and to create new ideas to be better, as one, united community.

Local elections are critical.

In times of the pandemic, the people in small towns have noticed their mayors

step up. They’re trying their best to protect their citizens from obtaining the disease while also trying to safely reopen. These types of crises have shown how competent local leaders are by what they’re doing to help their communities and towns.

Nevertheless, these situations can show that they’re not capable of handling all the stress that comes with it.

That’s why local elections are so important. If they’re not capable in giving the people what they want and deserve, they have a right to vote them out and replace them with someone who is.

This year, it’s more important than ever to have your voice be heard. Register to vote in your state before the deadlines come up.

Follow up on where to go in your city or town for your election polls. Make sure that you follow all guidelines and it’s okay to ask questions. It’s okay to feel frustrated with how the world is, but this is why our voices deserve to be heard now more than ever.

Make sure you know the requirements for voting in your home state, and remember to get out there and vote!

MISSION MOMENT Wash your hands.

The mask goes over the nose.

Get a flu shot.

Eat your vegetables.

© 2020 The Alvernian

Vol. 58 Issue 5

Photo Courtesy of Element5 on Unsplash

2

3

RELAXATION

October/November 2020

Vol. 58 Issue 5

As we begin November, we begin a hectic time. This year’s election is stressful for many, especially since it comes alongside the COVID-19 pandemic and the accommodations that people must take just to simply get through the day. To make things even more overwhelming, Alvernia students have the typical midterm stressors, paired with other external responsibilities that they may have. Stress is no stranger to college life, leaving some feeling trapped and almost as if they can’t breathe.

Stress comes from the thoughts and events that make people feel angry, nervous, or frustrated. In small amounts, stress is good. It can help people to make deadlines or get out of a dangerous situation.

However, when the stress is constant, or when there is anxiety that lingers after the stressing thing is gone, it can have very negative results. If a person is to continue with a stressful lifestyle, without aid, stress can even cause greater health issues like high blood pressure and obesity.

Just because someone is stressed now does not mean that they are trapped into a downhill, stressful spiral. There are many ways for people to de-stressed regardless of how much time or money they may have. Taking a few minutes, a day, to simply remember to breathe, can benefit both your short- and long-term health. Here are 10 simple ways to de-stress that aren’t completely boring.

1. Meditation.

Meditation is a great way to de-stress! Some like to sit in a quiet room, or listen to meditation soundtracks and focus on breathing, emptying their mind of everything else. If this is for you -that is great, take time to do that kind of meditation whenever you can! If this is not for you, then perhaps a different type of meditation would work better for you.

If you do not like clearing your mind completely, you may want to focus on visualization. Sit in a quiet space, or a space with some background noise, and focus on something. Picture that thing in your mind – a friend,

a pet, a goal you wish to achieve. Visualize finishing a project, getting an A on an exam, or something you desire. Focus on the image in your mind, and the emotions it gives you.

If neither traditional meditation nor visualization speaks to you, you could try the reflection method. As yourself a question – what are your thankful for, who are you, what do you like to do – and focus on your feelings as you answer the question.

Try to keep your focus on the actual feelings you feel, and not the thoughts that come when you think of answering the question.

Perhaps you are interested in none of the methods of meditation above. That is perfectly alright! You might want to try mantra meditation, in which you focus on a word, or phrase, or even a syllable to encourage positivity in your life. If you are into yoga, you could try yoga meditation in which you take time in the corpse/ relaxation pose in order to relax your body, and relieve any physical tension you may feel – which in turn may help you relieve mental tension.

There’s also sound bath meditation, which uses sound vibrations to bring you into a relaxed state. In addition to all these methods, there are many, many more, so if meditation interests you, search the web and find your perfect technique.

2. Get Out. (No, really, go outside.)

Going for walks and getting out in nature is a great thing to do if you have the time!

Not only is taking a walk and getting fresh air good for your lungs and physical fitness, but it also serves as a way to get rid of stress. So, get out in nature and take a walk alone or with a small group.

In addition, you can use this time to take pictures and document your adventure, listen to music, or simply walk peacefully and listen to the sounds of nature.

You could also eat a meal outside as though you were on a picnic. Lay out a blanket or sit at a picnic table and just peacefully eat. You could also bring a book with you and read something that’s not a textbook. Even just going and sitting on a park bench and simply enjoying the world around you can help lower stress levels.

Removing yourself from a stressful environment is an easy way to destress.

If you have the money, eat at a restaurant, or go to an outdoor event. If you do not, take advantage of parks, benches, sidewalks, and nice weather while it lasts.

Take the time to stop and smell the roses - even if they are not in plant form!

start brushing colors onto paper or canvas however you feel like.

Sit down, and simply write. Do not worry about things like writer’s block, and instead just simply start writing. Write about your day, or something you would like to do tomorrow. You can even look up prompts on the internet or ask a friend to give you something silly to write about.

If you are tired and lacking motivation, just jot down a few sentences about your day on a scrap piece of paper. Alternatively, if you’re pressed for time, or in the middle of studying, you can take a break and doodle in your notes.

You do not have to be the greatest writer or artist, nor do you have to have all the time in the world or be insanely inspired. Just do something small and simple, and fit little creations in whenever you have a few moments to do so.

3. Create.

Yes, create something. Even if you do not have a creative bone in your body, you can still sit down and color in a coloring book. If you are feeling adventurous, attempt drawing your favorite cartoon character from childhood, or try drawing a still life from the things on your counter.

If you would like to paint, go to one of the RHA paint nights, or make your own paint night. Follow a Bob Ross video, and just sit and paint until you feel calmer. Or, you can be more abstract and just

Take advantage of Angelica Creek Park, which is just a short walk from your class or dorm room!

Photo Courtesy of Kailey Conrad

Kailey Conrad Contributing Writer

4. Laugh or Scream into the Void.

Laughter has always been noted as the best medicine – and while it may not work for everything, it surely can help with stress.

Laughter can help with circulation and relaxation, in addition to improving your mood. So, next time you are overwhelmed with stress, take the time to look at amusing YouTube compilations, or scour the web for your favorite memes.

Have a friend tell you a joke or take a few moments to watch your favorite comedian.

Photo Courtesy of Kailey Conrad

Why You Need to Breathe

If your sense of humor isn’t the greatest, you can always try screaming. Seriously, screaming into a pillow or even ranting your stressed frustrations into the void of the internet may help you.

Sometimes, we all could use a good scream – and let’s face it, sometimes screaming is fun (and may help to encourage a bit of a laugh if you find screaming a bit silly).

Just, please, be mindful of others as some people may find loud noises to be fear or anxiety inducing.

If laughing or screaming does not tickle your fancy, you can always try singing along to your favorite songs.

Pull up your favorite playlist, and sing along whilst doing chores, driving your car, or just sitting in your room.

Experiment with the sounds of your voice and get lost in the music. If you are voice conscious or feel that you ‘can’t sing’ simply turn the volume up, or have your friends or roommates join you in a purposefully bad karaoke competition. Just, be sure your volume is appropriate for your location and the time of day.

5. Eat. Eat a big meal, or a small snack – but try to focus on the healthier things. If a bite of chocolate helps you calm down, however, there’s nothing saying that you can’t eat it. Just remember, that anything in excess is generally bad for you. Take time to slow down in eating, and appreciate how something tastes. Sometimes, when we stress, we may forget to eat, or the stress may even

4

DE-STRESS

October/November 2020

Vol. 58 Issue 5

How to Just Breathe! (continued, pg. 3) be rooted in our lack of eating, so it is important to remember to eat and to take time to do so.

If you are feeling adventurous, look up simple ‘5 Minute’ recipes online, and try one out. For some, cooking and baking may act to destress. There is nothing stopping you from baking a cake while studying – just set an alarm to reduce the risk of burning it.

6. Take a nap.

Sometimes, stress can be caused by sleep deprivation.

If you are feeling tired, or severely stressed, try lying down in bed for half an hour to an hour, and take a nap. Try not to sleep for more than an hour, however, as that may end up making you feel even less rested than when you laid down. It is always best to keep naps short and sweet, and relatively one sleep cycle in length for the best effects.

7. Drink Water.

A lack of sleep is not the only thing that can compound

stress. Dehydration can also make stress much worse than it should be. If you are feeling stressed, try to take a break and drink some water or fruit juice. After a stressful day, you may be compelled to reach for a beer, or your favorite alcoholic beverage, but this could end up making you feel even worse (especially in the morning), so reach for a bottle of water instead. Then, once the water is gone, assess how you feel, and drink accordingly.

wax melter.

“I like the smell of lavender due to its calming properties.

When I get stressed, I’ll dab a bit of lavender oil on my pillow at night to help me relax” said Amy Koch, a Criminal Justice major at Alvernia University.

9. Get Organized It can be a great benefit to have a clean space to work in. not only will you be more organized and be able to find things much easier. Having a messy space can affect your mind and make your mind a messy space as well. In addition, taking the time to clean up after yourself may reduce stress in and of itself – put on some music, and remove those week-old mac and cheese cups from your desk.

If your room is clean, that is wonderful! You should then take the time to clean up your calendar. Note important dates and see how much time you actually have to get things done. It may put your mind at ease to know how many days

8. Smell Some Flowers!

Yes, it is currently fall, but that does not mean you can’t smell some floral scents!

Essential oils are a great way to smell the springtime flowers, without having to be in that specific season.

Any smell that makes you happy - not just flowers - you should take the time to smell.

This could be anything - if pumpkin spice makes you happy, or vanilla calms you down, find some oils and put them in a diffuser or some wax and throw that into a

You Are Not Alone

10. Unplug.

Many people have found that they get sucked into social media and are constantly reading bad news for long periods of time. This is the newfound epidemic of ‘doomscrolling’ which can lead it’s victims to depression, sadness, hopelessness, and ultimately, stress about the world in its current state.

While it may sound like ‘not a big deal’, the effect of reading continuously depressing news can negatively affect your mind.

So, take the time to step away.

You will not miss much, and you can always catch up later.

Let your battery recharge by unplugging yourself from stressful media. Set it on the backburner for a time when you aren’t so stressed – when midterms aren’t on your

mind.

If you are one of those people who cannot put your phone down, download an app like Donut Dog, that rewards you for not picking up your phone. Alternatively, if that doesn’t sound like a good option for you, then you can try unfollowing accounts that stress you out, or make a different social media account that only follows positive things so that you can give your brain a break from all the depressing things in the world.

Despite how things may feel, stress doesn’t have to be a permanent state. Find something that works for you – may it be meditation, cleaning up your space or a specific scent. Use the tools available to you, and the world around you to ease your mind and actually relax every once and a while. Not only can it help the feeling of being overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, it can also help your body and your physical health in the long run!

the same thing. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or talk about what is going on.

In many residence halls, there are bulletin boards that are up to help students that are feeling stressed out or overwhelmed. “We create bulletin boards in our halls to create and spread awareness for certain things that students may be going through and to also celebrate a holiday,” Jacob Taylor, junior and Residence Assistant, said. Residence Assistants (RAs) are students that are also living and working on campus. They usually From left to right: Residence Assistants Neeko Scurlock, Aidan Cichlar, have some insight into your Dave, Madison Wolf and Kevin Battersby. problems, having gone through similar things before. want without worrying about give them a compliment, or The RAs that we have classes or any requirements. take them on a walk, or find around campus are there “Before anything, I make some other way to spend to support and help you so sure that I am mentally and time with them. Being there when you are down you can physically okay,” Lauren for people is everyone’s turn to them. “I think of my Dragen, junior, said. Some responsibility. residence as additions to my ways to clear your mind are The things that we do to family and I look after them to go on walks, play video support others do not go as such,” Tyzhir Morris, junior games, spend time with unappreciated because that and Residence Assistant, said. others, and even get a little one kind gesture that you Most of the time your sleep. do could possibly change problems could be solved As a student at Alvernia the course of someone’s with a little bit of relaxation.

University, it is your duty to day. “There have been many We often overwork our be there for others including times where I have had rough bodies and our minds to the your fellow students so days and someone gave me a point that we aren’t even make sure you pay attention compliment which made me aware that we are doing such. and notice when someone feel better all around,” Natalie It is key that you make time is struggling. If you see English, junior, said. for yourself to do what you someone having a rough day

Photo Courtesy of Alvernia Resident Life

Some people in the community thought it might have been a terrible idea for students to return to campus, let alone return to in-person classes, but Alvernia University has so far gambled and mostly succeeded. By the time this issue is printed, the major challenges students will be facing are classwork and stress as midterms have come and gone. Fortunately, the solidarity we have had as an Alvernia family on campus will help us get through

everything together. Alvernia University feels like a home more than a school, and that is ideal for students who may become overwhelmed with everything going on. “Once I stepped on campus, it felt like I was joining a family,” Paris Brandon, freshman, said. “Everyone was helping, communicating, and caring.”

Students of Alvernia care for each other and are always there to pick each other up when needed. One thing about being on campus is that if you are going through something, someone else is most likely be going through

Photo Courtesy of @alvernniauniversity

Dion Thorpe Contributing Writer

you actually have to finish an assignment, and with an organized calendar, you’ll also be able to budget your time more effectively and reduce doing assignments at the last minute!

President John Loyack and Provost Glynis Fitzgerald pose for a picture during Alvernia’s drive-in open house.

5

ON CAMPUS

October/November 2020

Vol. 58 Issue 5

Revamped Mental Health Counseling accompanies COVID Changes Joely Griffith Contributing Editor

campus this fall.

Not all the changes have been for the worse. A positive change at Alvernia has been the addition of new ways to obtain help safely through Alvernia’s Counseling Services.

What are AU’s Counseling Services?

Student fear for the future, made worse by COVID, have made returning to life on campus more difficult. COVID has uprooted normalcy, as seen by the many changes reaching to every corner of

Alvernia offers access to counseling and other mental health resources at the Health and Wellness Center, which is located on the lower level of Veronica Hall. Students can schedule appointments at no cost to speak with a counselor about anything from daily struggles and stress to mental health, and relationship or roommate troubles. The center is a great resource, especially as the current climate of uncertainty mixes with everyday college struggles for many.

COVID Changes In response to the university’s commitment to keep campus safe with social distancing, mask protocols, and other updates, the Counseling Center has also revamped their approach to providing support to students. While in-person counseling is only available for crisis appointments, the Center has added virtual options to better serve the student population.

• Virtual counseling is available through a private telehealth platform, which

makes it more accessible for distance students, commuters, and even residential students who feel safer talking to someone virtually. If a student does not have a place they feel safe to participate in virtual counseling, the center also offers private areas for students to use.

• Weekly Support Group Chats have also been offered to provide students who may feel more comfortable in a group the chance to discuss things such as life, school, change, and COVID with other students under the guidance of a counselor. These chats take place via Zoom to safely allow for a larger group of students to participate.

• “With the Boys” is another virtual support chat for male Alvernia students.

The chat is a great resource and aims to erase the stigma around mental health and provide a place for malestudents to talk about problems specific to their college experience.

“With the Boys” takes place

on Tuesday nights from 6 to 7 p.m. via Zoom.

Mental Health Podcastcoming soon!

The podcast will be available and free to all Alvernia students and will center around mental health in today’s climate. Remember to check your Alvernia email for information regarding all counseling chats and the new podcast!

The changes at the Counseling Center reflect the University’s dedication to students by balancing the college experience of being back on campus with protocols required to keep the community safe. For those times one feels stressed under the weight of school, life, and the current climate, rest assured the Counseling Center at Alvernia is there.

For questions or more information, email: Patricia.Kreider@alvernia. edu Brian.Blackburn@alvernia. edu Andre.Sumiel@alvernia. edu

Alexxa Powers Contributing Writer

Photo Courtesy of Alexxa Powers

While Alvernia often focuses its attention on the needs of the people of Reading, sometimes Alvernia students are the ones most in need of help. A 2019 survey by the Association of American Colleges and University found that more than 60 percent of students had experienced food insecurity in the last 30 days.

The students who are often

Located in Veronica Hall, a freezer with frozen meals from Aladdin is provided for students.

the most at risk are the ones who Alvernia reaches out to the most.

The idea of Clare’s Cupboard originated from Sharon Blair, the Academic Operations Manager, who created the program called Angels in the Attic. After a trip to Assisi, Italy, Blair came back to Alvernia campus to reflect on her journey. With Franciscan values in mind, a food pantry was created in the summer of 2013 as a service-learning project to help students in need.

From there, Angels in the Attic flourished as a resource for students to provide school supplies, textbooks, dorm essentials, clothing, and more to those who can’t afford it.

Through this program, Blair noticed the once small- scale need for food assistance was growing.

Julianne Wallace, Vice President for Mission and Ministry, and Tracy Hine, Executive Assistant, helped Blair expand the food pantry we now call Clare’s Cupboard.

Clare’s Cupboard began in August 2019. The cupboard, originally located in Campus Commons University Life Suite, is now in Veronica Hall next to Residence Life. Reid Hoff, a graduate assistant of

Mission and Ministry and Holleran Center, believes this new spot will help spread the word.

“Veronica Hall is great because it has a lot of foot traffic from Residence Life and people going in and out,” Hoff said.

Since the move, Clare’s Cupboard has seen more attention. Clare’s Cupboard is “available to all students whether commuter, residential, undergraduate, graduate, or any person enrolled at Alvernia as a The food pantry is stacked with an abundance of food to support student,” Dr. Wallace said. students’ nutritional needs.

“No matter what situation you’re in, don’t be generously offered a freezer Through research, faculty embarrassed or shy to say and any leftover food at the members found the lack when you need help,” Hoff end of each day are packaged of nutrition students were said. and set in the cooler. The receiving while obtaining The pantry is available service Aladdin provides help their degrees. Employees throughout the weekdays with “sustainability so there at Alvernia through strong from noon to 4 p.m. and isn’t as much food waste.” efforts, placed a food pantry limited hours over the Faculty and staff also help to aid in solving the problem. weekend all depending on out with supplying food items “Students shouldn’t volunteer hours. Although for The Cupboard along with have to worry about food hours are short, students are food drives that occur once insecurities while there encouraged to volunteer. every semester. on campus obtaining their The Cupboard has The community at degrees,” Hoff said. a variety of options to Alvernia prides itself off Clare’s Cupboard is one pick from. The pantry is the many Franciscan values of the many ways Alvernia stocked with canned goods, and traditions. Through a is doing their part to help nonperishables, and now student’s college education, students obtain their degree some perishable items thanks issues beyond completing while having their nutritional to a recent partnership with homework assignments and needs met.

Aladdin Food Services at getting good grades arise. the University. Aladdin has

Photo Courtesy of Alexxa Powers

On-Campus Food Pantry Helps Students in Need

6

ON CAMPUS

October/November 2020

Vol. 58 Issue 5

Daviliana Gil Contributing Writer Alvernia needed a Black Student Union, and the events of the past year finally created enough demand to make one.

In America, people have witnessed different ways in which people of color have been maltreated. From families living in cages to police brutality, people of color have faced many injustices for centuries. The events of late 2019 and early 2020 saw an explosion of popular outrage about these injustices spearheaded by the Black Lives Matter protest movement.

The Black Student Union organization was created to appreciate the diverse cultures at Alvernia University It was started by four second-year students.

The president of BSU is Micah Yarbray, she is a double major in criminal justice administration and psychology with a minor in addiction and mental

health. Jayah Roman the vice president, majoring in nursing and minoring in political science. Ceydi Rosario the secretary of the organization, also a nursing major. The fourth founder of the organization is Tahillah LaRhue, the treasurer majoring in nursing.

Their goal is to educate the community about the injustices going on in the black community, as stated in their constitution. “At times we will discuss difficult and uncomfortable topics, but we want to get comfortable with being uncomfortable because that it what it’s going to take to make the change needed in our communities, in our country but most importantly in the world” said Yarbray.

The organization hopes to unite people and they hope to set an example for all on campus as leaders.

In their constitution, the Black Student Union also strives “to help the Alvernia community understand the political, educational, social, and economic equality

WORD OF THE ISSUE: INDEPENDENT

ADJ; FREE FROM OUTSIDE CONTROL; NOT DEPENDENT

Making Friends During COVID

Trace Parker Contributing Writer 2020 is hard on campus and meeting friends and socializing outside of class is even harder. With restrictions on mask wearing and residence hall visitation, it seems very hard to try and meet new faces. How can you meet people when you can barely see them?

The Campus Commons gym, of course! When the gym is open, it’s a great way to meet new active people. An easy way to meet someone is to go on the bench press and ask someone to give you a spot! It’s a win win scenario because most people will help you, you get to lift heavier weight safely, and can start a conversation!

The gym hours are:

Monday - Thursday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Students looking for activities during the week can use the Corq app. Corq lists

all the available activities for you to do! CAB and Student Life have put together some fun offerings such as Bingo night, outdoor movie night, the fire and ice festival and more!

Ask your peers in class for help understanding a specific subject. It’s never a bad idea to ask for help. Even saying something like “Hey! I saw you did really good on the last test. Maybe you could help me study for the next one?” opens a conversation.

Overcoming your fear of rejection is an important step in becoming a competent professional in any field. The possible upsides are finding a new study partner and doing better in school. A new perspective could make all the difference.

Sometimes the simplest maneuvers are the best.

Simply walking around on campus (at appropriate social distance) and look for someone who doesn’t have their earpods in or staring at their phone. Say “Hey.” See where things go from there.

Try following up with “how’s your day going?” Now you are on the first step to mastering the art of small talk.

“Every time I’m walking around campus I always say hey, or what’s up to people passing by,” said Shane Ecker, You never know if they might turn out to just be small talk or a lifelong friend.”

Now get out there and make some friends! Alvernia is known for its close-knit kind community.

All Hallow’s Eve Podcast

ˌ/indəˈpendənt

of rights and to highlight guidelines. Updates are also page @au.bsu. All are the black community.” In found on their Instagram welcome to join. simple words, to aid the Alvernia community that it is not just color issue, it’s a human rights issue as no one deserves to endure these injustices due to the color of their skin. The organization founders not only wanted for blacks to see other blacks on campus, but also for whites to support blacks and bring awareness to the injustices black people face, not only in America, but around the world. “It’s important that we all can unite together and create a safe space on campus for us all to learn, educate, fellowship, build, grow, and support one another” said Yarbray.

The club’s focus is on black issues, but all are welcome to join. For more information, contact the president, Micah Yarbray (micah.yarbray@ alvernia.edu). Students can request to be a member on PAX. Meetings also occur biweekly on Mondays at 6:30 AU BSU Founders: Micah Yarbray (left), Tahillah LaRhue (top pm via Zoom to correspond middle), Ceydi Rosario (bottom middle), and Jayah Roman (right). with social distancing

Photo Courtesy of Daviliana Gil

BSU Brings Representation of Minorities to Campus

Photo Courtesy of Colton Sturgeon on Unsplash

8

LIFESTYLE

October/November 2020

Vol. 58 Issue 5

Victor de Avila Contributing Writer

For the explorers out there, taking a hike or drive through We know the fall season is wooded areas is hard to beat, here when the temperature especially as the leaves hit outside lowers and flannels their peak color. If you’re able come out of the closet. Here to drive within two hours, is a breakdown of festive Ricketts Glen State Park outdoor activities to do and the Poconos Mountains before winter strikes. have breathtaking trails and For students who grew up viewpoints. in the mid-Atlantic, pumpkin For a much closer option, and apple picking are signs the Neversink Loop Trail of the season. Just make and Nold Forest Trail are sure rain isn’t in the forecast easily accessible, both within and the coast is clear. Local twenty minutes of Alvernia. pumpkin patches can be This year in Pennsylvania, the As the leaves fall at different times across various regions, this map found at Brecknock Orchard, peak times to view the most displays the exact peak times and phases for fall foliage in the United Frecon Farms, Helen’s Gourd vibrant leaves falls between States.

Farm, and Mast Farms.

October 19 and November 1.

Of course, one can’t buy a By mid-November, most of the state’s leaves will have Asylum may be the most reached their peak and begin well-known attraction due to to fall.Any corn maze pros its history dating back to the out there? A different type of early 1900s. The facility was explorer may consider getting intended as a destination for lost in a corn maze. Students severely disabled patients up for the spatial navigation in need of care but as time challenge can head over to went on, it was brought to Harvest Hayride and Wilcox attention that patients were Farms to test their navigating neglected proper care and skills. became wards of the state, Students looking for a punished by the doctors and challenge more thrilling nurses.Before the weather than a corn maze have gets too cold and you head plenty of options within an home for Thanksgiving, put hour’s drive. Pennsylvania’s on that fall fit and make famed Field of Screams, the most of the outdoors Shocktoberfest, and the by checking a few of these Penhurst Asylum are activities off the list.

Outlined above is the local Neversink Loop Trail. Located in East Reading, this route takes you guaranteed to provide enough through 5.6 miles of wooded terrain, providing the perfect opportunity to surround yourself with bang for your buck. Penhurst fall leaves.

Image Courtesy of AllTrails

pumpkin without carving it, so this is a prime opportunity to add some decoration to the dorm.

Since pumpkins always receive the most attention in the fall, we can’t forget about apples. Endless rows of apple trees are waiting to be picked and eaten. If apple pie calls to you, head over to Weaver’s Orchard or Grim’s Orchard for a taste of the holidays. “Apple picking is one of my favorite fall activities because it helps me distance myself from my hectic lifestyle and it allows me to spend quality time with friends in the great outdoors,” Dustin Brown, senior, said.

Image Courtesy of Patch

Un-be-leafable Fall Festivities You Can’t Forget

9

HALLOWEEN

October/November 2020

Vol. 58 Issue 5

Trick or Treat, Stay Six Feet!

Staying in and watching Halloween movies with loved ones is a safe alternative to potential exposure of any kind.

far as cancelling the trick or treating events that were set to happen on the 31st of October. With traditions like trick or treating being cancelled, communities are forced to think about alternative activities to celebrate this Halloween.

What can we do to replace our traditional holiday pastimes? An alternative way to keep trick or treating is to have residents in your community to stand at the end of their driveways, wearing protective masks and gloves, and hand out candy to children who are doing the same to keep everyone as

safe as possible. You can even still go to haunted attractions such as Field of Screams in Lancaster, PA. Another approach to adapting to a new Halloween is conducting a personal ‘trick or treat’ amongst your household.

Have your children dress in costumes, and go around to every room of the house to ‘trick or treat’ and get candy from family members. Lastly, you can always just cozy up with your loved ones and watch the classic Halloween movies we all love, carve pumpkins, or make different diy Halloween treats-such as caramel apples. There are

endless amounts of ideas one can think of to celebrate Halloween in times like these.

In conducting interviews on campus, students shared their traditions and how they adapted them for this year. They also voiced what they will miss most, and potential alternatives to specific traditions. Arianna McGroy, freshman, said, “I’ll probably just be staying in and carving pumpkins or going to haunted attractions” while social distancing of course, as she “would rather stay safe considering the circumstances we face with COVID”. Another student

on campus, Ansar Niazi, freshman, said, “I am looking forward to going home and spending time with my girlfriend.” A few students said they would still be dressing up for socially distanced photoshoots with friends. Wrapping up the interviews, the trend seems to be, dressing up for fun and socially distancing with friends, or staying in with loved ones, since lots of traditional festivities, such as trick or treating, have been cancelled.

We take holidays for granted because they come every year. When one is potentially being taken away, we start to think about all that we will miss from this time. It adds on to the frustration of the year we have had, and it can be hard to deal with or understand.

The importance and joy that comes with Halloween becomes more prominent in our minds when we are at risk of it being taken away.

Spooky Survey!

Click the photo to take our Spooky Halloween Survey!

Photo Courtesy of Mark Tegethoff on Unsplash

During these uncertain times, Halloween seems to be the perfect time to wear your required mask, get candy and be another character all at the same time. However, one must be extra cautious during this year, and take more than wearing a mask into consideration. When it comes to Halloween, children love to trick or treat, while adults and teens love social gatherings. Even though this is the perfect opportunity to be certain everyone is masked, you can never be too certain. If children could trick or treat, they would be subjecting themselves to potential exposure through candy being given out and other children trick or treating alongside them. Adults are left with little to do, as they cannot have parties or participate in events where social distancing is impossible. On September 16th of this year, West Reading, PA went as

Photo Courtesy of Jaime Carillo

Carly LePore Contributing Writer

10

COMMUNITY

October/November 2020

Vol. 58 Issue 5

Join the Second Annual Camel Trot 5K Fun Run/ Walk!

Get ready to burn off some quarantine pounds, The Camel Project is now hosting its second annual Camel Trot!

Following the exciting Parade of Champions on Saturday, October 3, The Camel Project is working on its next charity event that everyone can get involved in.

On Sunday, November 22 from 10 a.m. to noon, participate in the Camel Trot!

On-site registration is going to start at the airport terminal at the Reading Regional Airport, located at 2501 Bernville Rd, Reading, Pa. 19605. The airport terminal has modern bathrooms and plenty of free parking!

Remember to bring a mask, since they will not be provided. It is important that all participants adhere to the Pa guidelines already set in place the day of. Participants are not required to wear a mask while racing but must wear one while doing any other activities provided

throughout the event. The race is also limited to 225 entries, and availability of race day signup is not guaranteed. As well, the start line is going to be much wider so there is able room to be socially distanced.

“We’re thrilled that the Camel Project is holding their event in 2020, with COVID precautions in place” said Ron Horn of Pretzel City Sports, who are in charge of capturing race times of the

participants. “Many races have cancelled in 2020 out of a sense of fear. The Camel Project is a very worthwhile organization doing great work, and we salute them for their courage in doing so.”

At 10 a.m., the 5k run or walk starts- which will be equal to 3.1 miles. Following at 10:45 is a fun run or walk, which will only be 1 mile.

11 a.m. is when the awards ceremony is scheduled to start.

The runner fees start at $25 before the cutoff date of November 4, and $30 after.

Each registered runner will receive a Camel branded t-shirt and ‘Stop Bullying- I Care’ branded bangle along with water and snacks. There are no refunds or mailed awards.

The O’Pake Institute is planning to attend and support their community client Online registration

Photo Courtesy of Terry Scott Reed

Anastasia Tomko Contributing Editor

Finishing line of the 2019 Camel Trot on May 26, 2020.

is available at www. thecamelproject.org/thecamel-trot, or mail the check and form from https://www. thecamelproject.org/ to The Camel Project P.O. Box 4544 Reading, Pa 19606. Make check payable to The Camel Project.

All proceeds benefit The Camel Project’s Stop BullyingI Care (SB-IC) bullying elimination programs. The proceeds will be used to fund or supplement costs for in-school and after- school, workplace, and senior citizen programs.

There is also the option to sponsor a disadvantaged youth to run in the Camel Trot! For each $25 donated, The Camel Project will match to allow two youths to participate as runners.

Disclaimer: 100% of proceeds go to funding the Stop

Bullying – I Care! (SBIC) bullying prevention/elimination

program for kids in Berks County. The SBIC is developed and delivered by The Camel Project Inc., a non-pro¬fit corporation registered in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and a 501(c) (3) organization. Contributions to The Camel Project are taxdeductible to the extent permitted by law. Tax ID #82-4345072 BRIDGE ID 8391902861

Don’t Let Pet Adoption Become A Trend

Pet adoptions soared to new heights during the pandemic quarantine starting in March. People spending extended periods indoors needed something to keep themselves occupied, and while some turned to learning a new skill, others decided that they needed a furry friend. While this may seem to be a good thing on the surface, caring for a pet is more than just a COVID diversion.

Videos of people picking up their new four-legged companions are going viral on various social media platforms. These can rack up millions of views and likes. When a video like this goes viral, that audience will see the joy that the new pet brings into its owners’ lives and will want to have one of their own. As people spent more time on social media and streaming services while they were quarantining, more of these videos had the potential to appear on their feed and plant the idea. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, this “trend” of showing off pet adoptions can lead to dangerous misconceptions.

What those short videos do not show is the hard work and responsibility that comes with owning a pet.

The viewers do not see the mess made by an overeager puppy, or the daily task of maintaining a cat’s litter box.

They only see the fun, and therefore are not prepared to be pet owners.

When this happens, some owners will return their new pets because they are simply not prepared to care for it. In worse cases, the animal is abandoned. A study conducted by the American Humane Association showed that one in ten pets adopted from shelters are returned within six months of their adoption. The study also found that those with strict expectations for their new pet were more likely to return them once the animal failed to meet their standards.

“People need to understand the speciesspecific behavior of the animal they’re adopting,” Dr. Donna Yarri, former Alvernia professor and avid animal advocate, said.

“This is the idea that each species has different needs, temperaments, natures, etc.

The more that a person can learn about the type of animal

that they’re adopting, the more successful they will be at it working out.”

In addition to the potentially harmful “trend” of owning an animal, surges in pet adoptions can lead to a shortage of animals in shelters. While this is definitely a great thing for those shelters and for the animals that have been given new homes, a lack of animals in shelters will have people turning to breeders to adopt from. There are several reputable people to turn to, but their prices can be far more expensive than disreputable breeders.

According to the Humane Society, there are over 10,000 puppy mills in the U.S., and most of them are hard to spot.

All have advertising that pass themselves off as reputable, so it is very difficult for pet buyers to determine who to trust. It is extremely important to scope out breeders before purchasing to determine whether or not they are treating their animals humanely.

The Humane Society of the United States has a helpful checklist entitled “How to Identify a Responsible Dog Breeder.” According to this list, reputable and

responsible breeders will always encourage you to visit the puppy’s home and will keep their litters in clean, open rooms instead of cages. A good breeder will also have a limited number of puppies available and will specialize in one or two breeds. They also will never sell to someone online or through a pet store without meeting the buyer in person, so if you contact a breeder virtually, make sure you schedule an in-person visit.

If a breeder breaks any of these guidelines, the Humane Society encourages buyers to look elsewhere, as they may be dealing with a puppy mill.

There are many ways in which people can promote and learn about

healthy adoptions. One of the chief ways is by volunteering at a shelter. They would greatly appreciate the help and are excellent sources of information about the proper ways to adopt and care for many different types of animals. “Organizations need to continue to appeal to the public in terms of the kind of work that they do and the kind of opportunities that are available,” Dr. Yarri said. “I think that a lot of organizations and shelters do this very well.” By supporting shelters and promoting their work, people can ensure that pets are being treated properly and that they will be able to find their forever homes.

Adopt, don’t shop!

Photo Courtesy of Sidney Goodman

Sidney Goodman Managing Editor

11 October/November 2020

SPORTS

Vol. 58 Issue 5

Alvernia Football v. COVID-19 COVID-19 has left a lot of question marks in 2020, and college football is not an exception. On July 24 the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) became one of many of college conferences to announce there will be no athletics in fall 2020. After the spring season getting cut short because of the coronavirus, this was another huge blow to athletes with the MAC. Alvernia football was set to have its third season as a program after having their inaugural season just two years ago in 2018. The season before was already supposed to be shortened with only in-conference games but then no season shortly after. Camp was set to begin on August 12 and the first game of the season was supposed to kick off on September 4 under the lights for the school’s firstever football night game.

The MAC, just like many other conferences throughout

Alvernia’s football team conditioning at the end of their third practice of the fall.

Photo Courtesy of Jared Montalto

Jared Montalto Contributing Writer

college football, planned to have a spring season for all fall sports. This would also only be in-conference games, but it would finally let the athletes play the games they love. As of now, there has not been much talk other than being hopeful for a spring season.

This decision left not only football players disappointed but all student-athletes.

“At first, I was definitely disappointed because every freshman has hopes of coming into a program and wants to make an immediate impact...but things don’t

always go as planned,” Jacob Montalto, freshman receiver, said.

As football players came back onto campus for the fall 2020 semester no one knew how much football they’d get to play if at all this semester.

The team planned on having players attend the weight room, condition and sooner or later get on the turf field as a team before the semester ends. Obviously, there would be restrictions when it comes to doing these activities.

Currently, the team is spread into groups of ten or less and has certain lift

times while practicing social distancing. Groups have a 15-minute stretch session before going into the weight room and getting the Campus Clear app checked. The athletes lift for 25 minutes before going into the hallway to do more exercises usually with medicine balls or bands.

After 15 minutes the players finish up by conditioning outside of the PLEX. That schedule occurs every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Everyone also has to have a mask on at all times.

There was already one

on the football team and kept training throughout lockdown. “I prepared for the season by working out four days a week and following my coaches’ workout packet,” he said.

Team meetings this fall have been unusual. All team meetings have been impossible because of COVID guidelines, with football being amongst the most difficult to adhere to. The football team

has been facing adversity since they became a sport on campus, and COVID just adds on to the problems they have faced. The football team carries about 100 players, but they cannot meet in groups of more than 10 when they are inside. Thus, all of their meetings and even study halls are done over zoom.

Ty Morris, a junior football player, said, “It’s intriguing to see the innovations the

coaching staff has made to keep everyone safe. It is very different having to meet virtual rather than in-person to go over X’s and O’s, but the virtual reality experience that the coaches have created for us gets the job done while also maintaining health precautions.”

Starting the second week of school, teams were able to start meeting up in small groups to lift in the weight room at the plex. Everything was ok for the first couple of days until an athlete tested positive for COVID, which caused the facility to shut down. Due to this, sports could not meet for two weeks.

Teams are back to practicing for the time being and are preparing for what is supposed to be a spring season for all sports. Even though all teams must meet in small groups when practicing and working out, each sport is different, and the lockdown has put pressure on normal routines.

Keon Taylor, senior, plays on the school’s basketball team and when asked about how COVID had impacted them and how they practice, he said, “COVID impacted us in many ways. We have to practice in groups now, as

COVID-19 incident this semester. One player had tested positive which had a snowball effect on shutting down most of the campus. Some players had to be quarantined at a local hotel until they were tested negative. Workouts were canceled for all sports including football that lasted two weeks. The re-startup has been heading in the right direction as everyone is taking the proper precautions.

“I think they’ve done the best they possibly could have when dealing with this situation,” Tyzhir Morris, junior defensive back, said.

Practices on the turf are reportedly supposed to begin on October 19. Hopefully, the rest of the semester is safe and COVID-19 free. Football players as well as the rest of Alvernia’s student-athletes want to compete and practice their respective sports even though a season isn’t likely till spring 2021.

Teyon Thorpe Contributing Writer COVID-19 has drastically impacted our fall athletes.

They normally begin practice and other preparations for their season in the spring, but the pandemic lockdown changed everything for our student-athletes. Hope stayed alive during lockdown for a fall season.

Dion Thorpe, junior, plays

Ty Morris and Jordan Green-Hinson wearing mask on and under their helmet following the guidelines for COVID 19.

Photo Courtesy of Teyon Thorpe

Sports Return to Campus Amidst COVID well as staying 6 feet apart from each other. We can’t scrimmage against each other, so every day at practice we have to do some different drills.”

Maintaining a positive mindset through these changes has not been easy.

Spring play seems like a long shot because of the ongoing pandemic. For some sports, it might be easy for them to play because of the number of players that are involved and some sports cause too much contact with each other to be able to play and be safe.

Athletes on campus all have different opinions on playing a season in the spring.

Malcolm Carey, senior and starting running back said, “I feel great we’re going to make noise in the spring to show everyone we’re not the lil’ kids on the block anymore.”

Sean Bernard, junior, who plays on the soccer team said, “The sooner we can compete and play games again the better. It will be a little bit of an adjustment but given that we already missed our fall season I know I would love to get back on the field.”