Point Park University Globe Spring 2017 Issue 12

THE

GL BE

@PPUGlobe April 5, 2017

8

SPJ mark of excellence awards

The Recipient of 5

keystone awards

Proposed rule sparks debate in meeting USG

By Alex Grubbs USG Beat Writer

A brief altercation over a new student government contract occurred after a rule not official in the constitution was unveiled.

The rule outlines that members should meet with at least two constituents a week and document the meeting.

“Do you guys not want to meet with your constituents?”

United Student Government (USG) Parliamentarian Charles Murria asked the legislative body during the dispute over the rule.

The new form introduced is to be signed by USG members after their training for the new positions members will hold. The rule read, “Each member should meet with 2 constituents per week and document the meetings.”

“You should know who your constituents are, and they should know who you are,” President Pro-Tempore Shaniece Lawrence said in the discussion.

USG page 2

IN THIS ISSUE:

PAGE CAB begins to

4 PAGE 6 PAGE SINCE 1967 7

pass torch to new executive director Iain Oldman discusses the best and worst parts of spring Pitcher throws no hitter to improve team’s winning streak to 14 ppuglobe.com

Celebrating 50 years of covering the world of Point Park University news

Issue 12

CRIME LAB HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT Candidates present their visions at debate

By Kayla Snyder Co-News Editor

Academic Hall classrooms can normally be seen filled with living, breathing humans, but 508 Academic is the opposite.

This classroom is specifically designed for students to study the deceased… or, in this case, dummies.

“This allows anyone who is going into criminal justice, forensic science or law to actually have an idea of what it’s like to step onto a crime scene,” Assistant Professor of forensic science Edward Strimlan said.

The classroom (dubbed the crime scene lab) is structured to look like a house on the exterior, fully equipped with a window and set of double doors covered with crime tape.

Entering the room, with a partial shingled roof passing overhead, reveals a full classroom to the right surrounded by a red curtain.

Hidden behind the curtains are three rooms set up to mimic different crime scenes for forensic science students: a living room, a bedroom and a study.

In addition to each room having furniture, a dummy acting as the victim is present in every room.

The dummies are fully clothed, but lack any fake blood remnants. Instead, the blood is described by pieces of red construction paper to salvage the dummies.

Inside of the lab, the study houses drawers of different materials such as test tubes, fake blood splatter and other props used for the crime scenes.

Each room can be cus-

By Jordan Slobodinsky Co-Opinions Editor

Nicole Pampena | The Globe

One recent crime scene replicating a study involves the “victim” dying at its desk. Professor Strimlan describes the complexity of just one room and how even a single hair on the floor is possible evidence. tomized to create a different crime scene to be investigated by the forensics students.

Strimlan said that the craziest scenario was created by the cinema department who used the crime scene lab to show death by an anaphylactic shock of a bee sting.

BEARDSLEY THROWS NO-HIT BID

“I gave them a suggestion of building a hoarder house and they did it,” Strimlan said. “They actually brought in tons of stuff and loaded one of the rooms up where it actually looked like a good hoarder house.”

CRIME LAB page 4

Copy Editor

Sam Robinson| Point Park Athletics

DEBATE page 2

Pioneer records artist to host album release party

By Carley Bonk

Nick Beardsley’s teammates mob him on the mound after he completes his no-hitter Saturday against Ohio Christian University. Beardsley is 3-0 on the year with a 0.85 ERA. The Pioneers are 23-7 overall with a 16-4 River States Conference record. They are one game back to IU Southeast, which leads the conference.

Presidential and vice presidential candidates debated the topics of tuition, food service and a myriad of other issues that students face.

“It was a very entertaining experience to have our beat reporter and our president talk to us and ask us questions,” USG presidential candidate Charles Murria said.

Questions were sent to U-View on Twitter with the hashtag #USGdebate.

U-View producer Casey Hoolahan monitored Twitter and forwarded questions to junior broadcast reporting major Josh Croup to ask the candidates, who moderated the event.

“We had a great turnout,” Croup said. “I did not expect this many people to come out. That made me really happy.”

The event began with the vice presidential candidates Davion Heron and Kristopher Chandler talking about their views on what they would like USG to become. Heron and Chandler agreed on many of the issues that were brought up.

Heron said that due to his past experience, he could help properly serve the student body.

Pioneer Records is holding its annual CD release party Tuesday, April 11 to debut Chase and The Barons’ new EP, “Propose a Toaster” and music video, “Rule the World.”

This is the first event by Pioneer Records to be held at The Club in Stage AE, a venue able to hold five hundred people.

Acoustic act Trinity Wiseman and folk/americana act Ferdinand the Bull will accompany Chase and The Barons on stage.

Chase and The Barons includes Chase Barron on vocals, Jake Stretch on drums, Mike Saunders on guitar, Jacob Rieger on bass and Tyler Handyside on saxophone.

Ed Traversari, an associate sports, arts and entertainment (SAEM) professor, said this collaboration with Stage AE is a great opportunity for the bands and students.

“This is a big deal for us,” Traversari said. “Our mission as a university is to get as many kids involved in the operation as possible. Stage AE is really just an extension of what we do here.”

Samantha Bowes, public relations and marketing apprentice for Pioneer Records and senior SAEM major, said this is really a major collaboration across campus including cinema classes, concert classes and student organizations.

RECORDS page 2

Weather Forecast Today: Mostly Sunny H 71, L 55

Thursday: Thunderstorms, H 67, L 44 Friday: PM Showers/Wind, H 49, L 40 Saturday: Mostly Sunny, H 58, L 41

Sunday: Sunny, H 68, L 49 Monday: Mostly Sunny, H 76, L 57 Tuesday: Showers, H 77, L 57

Point Park

GLOBE

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

NEWS

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

Candidates discuss their plans for change in USG from DEBATE page 1 Chandler used his opening statement to talk about how he looks to continue supporting the success of students at Point Park.

“I want to instill a sense of unity between USG and the student body,” Chandler said.

The questions ranged from what their experience in USG was to how they would handle the position if they were elected.

“I think the debate went really well,” Heron said. “I was definitely nervous, but the more I started talking about issues on campus and what students expect from me, the more comfortable I felt.”

Directly after the vice presidential debate, presidential candidates Robert Bertha and Murria came on set to hash out their own debate. Bertha started off the debate by presenting his ideas of a community full of

clear and constant communication and making USG a more welcoming entity.

Murria emphasized transparency between USG, the student body and the Point Park administration in his opening speech and throughout the debate.

Both Murria and Bertha spoke on the idea of improving relationships between USG and student media.

While there has been no tension between the two entities as of recently, both candidates agreed that there is no sign of USG interfering with student media and their involvement with covering USG-related events.

“The [student] media is there to be the eyes of the students whenever they can’t be in a room, and I would like to see that relationship grow,” Bertha said.

The next topic the candi-

Nikole Kost | The Globe

Students watch the United Student Government presidential and vice presidential debates in the Center for Media Innovation, Wednesday, March 29. dates discussed was the first thing they would like to change if they were elected as president.

Bertha said that his first change would be to rectify the strategic plan. This plan is used to out-

line exactly what USG wants to accomplish during the course of the school year. Bertha worked to develop the current plan, but he says he hopes to continue working on it if elected.

Disclosure: moderator Josh Croup is a sports editor for the Globe.

Jordan Slobodinsky jeslobo@pointpark.edu.

USG recording secretary suggests Release party includes expanding hours of nurse’s office premiere of music video from USG page 1 The USG Constitution does not dictate that members need to meet with constituents, but the organization itself pushes for its members to reach out to who they are representing.

Vice President Bobby Bertha, although agreeing, said that since it is not in the constitution explicitly, that it may be troubling for future administrations to figure out how this is a rule.

Recording Secretary Davion Heron, who also heads USG’s student concerns committee, then advised that the rule should be amended into the constitution for it to have a “foundation” in the new contract.

Sen. Daniel Murphy questioned if a censure would occur if a USG member does not meet with two constituents.

Sen. Hayley Hoffman reaffirmed that it will not lead to a censure.

“It is not saying you have to do this, but get to know your constituents,” Hoffman

said, reiterating that it is there to verify that USG members know what their responsibilities in the organization are.

The legislation was approved by all senators except Murphy, who abstained.

While addressing the need to reach out to constituents, after weeks of students’ health service-related concerns, Nurse Heather Capo, director of the university’s Health Services, spoke to USG about what her services provide.

Murphy informed Capo about a cold he previously had and the working nurse did not schedule a doctor’s appointment because he was not sick long enough. “[We are] prioritizing who gets into these appointments,” Capo responded.

The office has up to four appointment spaces available a day with doctors outside of campus. Capo said the appointments are prioritized based off of health concerns.

If a student had a health concern similar to Murphy’s, “we are going to request [for you] to use over-the-counter

medications.”

Heron also asked Capo about expanding the nurse’s office hours as it is opened from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the weekdays, plus a night nurse from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. on weekends including Thursday.

“I get that, and I hear that concern,” Capo said. “I can tell you during the nights, … students [don’t] come in [often].

According to an end-ofnight report, sometimes up to only five students visit the nurse at nighttime during a regular weekend. Sometimes, no students go at all.

Although wanting to expand more, Capo fears that more hours might be a budget concern, and that is out of her jurisdiction to handle.

Dean of Student Life Michael Gieseke recommended that if USG members find a larger student need for hours to be expanded, it could be a good argument to do it.

Alex Grubbs aagrubb@pointpark.edu.

from RECORDS page 1 “The ‘Rule the World’ music video was a project the cinema class has been working on for a while - raising money, production, set work and editing,” Bowes said. “The Campus Activity Board (CAB) is even sponsoring shuttles with a ‘Cash Cab’ theme where students can play trivia and win prizes on their way to the show.”

Students will also have a chance to win giveaways between sets at the show.

The music video class, in its first semester at Point Park, is co-taught by Greg Joseph, bass player for The Clarks and Andrew Halasz, a Conservatory of Performing Arts (COPA) associate professor. Chase Barron said he really was proud of the work everyone has put in so far.

“I’ve learned so much about what it takes to get an artistic vision into a material medium that people can listen or watch,” Barron said. “These past few months in the studio and behind the camera have solidified just how much de-

termination, teamwork, vision and passion it takes to make something meaningful.”

Trinity Wiseman, a winner of the Reimagination Project through WYEP, will kick off the show with her acoustic set and self-written lyrics. She describes her music as a “folk/ pop/indie mix.”

“I usually write about what’s happening in my life,” Wiseman said. “Sometimes I’ll sit down to play and something just pops into my head.”

Wiseman has been playing gigs since she was 11 years old.

Now a junior at Elizabeth Forward High School, she also visits Nashville once a month for a publishing deal as an opportunity to advance her music and work with other established artists.

“This will be my first time playing at Stage AE; it’s great to see more stuff to do in my hometown than just playing in a bar,” Wiseman said.

Carley Bonk cmbonk@pointpark.edu.

USG

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

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YOUR USG ELECTION DAY BALLOT AT A GLANCE Point Park’s United Student Government is holding elections for all of its positions this week on PointSync this week, April 3-7. In the past two editions, we profiled the candidates for USG president: Robert Bertha and Charles Murria, as well as the candidates for USG Vice President: Davion Heron and Kristopher Chandler. We conclude the series this week with a look at all candidates organized by the office sought. You can vote through Friday at bit.ly/VoteUSG2017.

PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

ROBERT BERTHA

KRISTOPHER CHANDLER

• Served on USG for 2 years • Major: Broadcast Production and Media Management • Positions: Senator, Vice President

• Served on USG for one semester • Major: Political Science and Screenwriting double major • Positions: Senator

For Bertha’s full profile, visit ppuglobe.com

For Chandler’s full profile, visit ppuglobe.com

CHARLES MURRIA

DAVION HERON

• Served on USG for 3 years • Major: Sports, Arts and Entertainment Management • Positions: Senator, Parliamentarian

• Served on USG for 3 years • Major: Musical Theatre • Positions: Senator, Recording Secretary For Heron’s full profile, visit ppuglobe.com

For Murria’s full profile, visit ppuglobe.com

LEGISLATIVE BODY CANDIDATES: MITCHUM DONATELLI

RILEY FRANK

• Running for: School of Business Senator • Year: Freshman • Major: Sports, Arts and Entertainment Management • Positions: Senator-at-Large

• Running for: School of Arts and Sciences Senator • Year: Freshman • Major: Political Science • Positions: Senator

NICK HESSELBIRG

HALEY HOFFMAN

• • • •

• Running for: Conservatory of Performing Arts Senator • Year: Freshman • Major: Stage Management • Positions: Senator

Running for: School of Business Senator Year: Freshman Major: Business Management Positions: Senator

KAYLEE KEARNS

SAMIAR NEFZI

• Running for: School of Business Senator • Year: Freshman • Major: Sports, Arts and Entertainment Management • Positions: Senator, Recording Secretary

• Running for: School of Communications Senator • Year: Sophomore • Major: Broadcast Reporting • Positions: Senator

ZACHARY SEYMOUR

ALEXIS SHERMAN

• • • •

• Running for: School of Arts and Sciences Senator • Year: Junior • Major: Political Science and Legal Studies • Positions: Senator

Running for: School of Business Senator Year: Freshman Major: Public Relations and Advertising Positions: Senator-at-large

HANNAH STEINER • • • •

Running for: School of Business Senator Year: Freshman Major: History Positions: Senator, Recording Secretary

Missing from our page is Patrick Terry, a Graduate Student running for Senator at Large. Candidate photography by Chloe Jakiela and Gracey Evans.

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

FEATURES

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

CSI Point Park: an inside look at the crime scene lab everything I see?” Strimlan Sophomore forensic said. “No. That’s what [the science majors Sarah Lu- students] need to know.”

Strimlan said the crime kaszewicz and Sarah Berarscene lab is an asset for the delli said that Strimlan likes major because it provides to throw obscure items in hands-on, real life experithe crime scenes to throw ences.

Prior to becoming a them off course. Berardelli professor at Point Park in recalls a pinecone that was 2011, Strimlan served as sitting on a table in one of the former Chief Forensics the scenes.

Investigator for Allegheny “It was just sitting in the middle of room,” Berar- County’s Office of the Medidelli said. “We kept asking cal Examiner.

“I was on over 2,000 ‘Where did the pinecone death scenes,” Strimlan come from? Did it come in said.

“This room is no difthrough the window? Does ferent than anyone’s house. that mean that someone was Whether you died at home able to climb through the or at work…this is real life. window to get out?’ Those [The crime scene lab] is as are the things we need to close as you can get to being think of.” real except someone hasn’t The placement of ranlived here for long enough.” dom, obscure objects is part Inside the lab, students of Strimlan’s teaching that have to not only examine the even when investigating, crime scene, but also collect not every thing at a crime evidence, photograph the scene is evidence. scene, measure, draw rough “If I went into your sketches of scenes and even room, would I understand create their own scenes.

According to a 2010 Globe article, the crime scene lab opened 7 years ago on Sept. 25, 2010.

S t u dents who take different forensic courses Nicole Pampena | The Globe such as DeEdward Strimlan is an assistant professor of v e l o p ment forensic science and former Chief Forensics of the Death Invesigator for Allegheny County’s Office of the InvestiMedical Examiner.

from CRIME SCENE page 1

Nicole Pampena | The Globe

Either Strimlan or his students decide how each crime scene is arranged and what evidence is significant. The above scene illustrates a basic living room set-up. gation System and Forensics Evidence I and II have the ability to use the crime scene lab as a classroom.

Point Park students are not the only ones with access to the crime scene lab.

In the past, the space has been used by neighborhood watch groups sponsored by different police forces, both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, an annual Crime Scene Investigation camp over the summer and other community events.

“It’s easier to see in an actual setting than it is to do in an actual classroom,” Lukaszewicz said. “It gives us more of a visual learning experience.”

Berardelli stated that a

common issue amongst the forensic science program is known as the “CSI” effect.

“People come in thinking that [forensic science] is going to be like a TV show, but it’s not,” Berardelli said.

Some examples of the realities of forensic science include the process of collecting DNA. Berardelli said in TV shows, DNA collection takes a day, but in real life, the process can take up to weeks or months.

“It’s not like you can say, ‘Hey, this is this person’s DNA,’ the only way you can be able to say that is if it’s in a system,” Berardelli said. “There’s only certain people in the system…most likely you’ll never get some-

one that has their DNA in it, so you have to test it against everyone.”

In the future, Strimlan would like to see an outside feature added to the program that the current space lacks.

“You have to be able to adapt,” Strimlan said. “Outdoor scenes happen all the time. Bodies get moved. At least with the indoor part, it’s controlled… It gives you the basics and that’s what you need.”

More images from our walk through the crime scene lab can be found at ppuglobe.com.

Kayla Snyder klsnyde2@pointpark.edu

Graduating CAB leader discusses organization’s past, present, future before transferring to Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School to pursue acting his senior year. Gill then entered Sports, arts and entertain- Point Park as an acting stument management senior Col- dent before switching majors to ten Gill describes the Campus SAEM. He is also a part of the Activities Board (CAB) as an Honors Program. always changing, never static Gill has been part of CAB organization. As a student who since his freshman year. He has switched majors, gained was a general board member promotions within a student during his freshman year and organization and his intern- his first semester of sophoship, and made a spontaneous more year. During the spring decision to join the military, of his sophomore year, he Gill is always changing as well. became the public relations Expanding from serv- coordinator. Gill then became ing his campus to serving his the vice president of marketcountry, Gill is preparing for ing for his junior year before graduation and retirement becoming the executive direcfrom his position as CAB exec- tor as a senior. utive director.

Outside of the organiza“CAB has become like my tion, Gill has been an intern little family on campus,” Gill for the Pittsburgh Downsaid. “It’s become my commu- town Partnership for the past nity at Point Park.” two years. He started off as a The Renfrew, Pa. native marketing and special events attended Seneca Valley School intern before a promotion to District until eleventh grade associate intern.

“What I do there is a mixture of event planning and marketing,” Gill said. “I write social media for them. We do a lot of urban development as part of the PDP so we do things to activate downtown Pittsburgh.

It’s very similar to CAB in that sense that CAB activates Point Park, PDP activates all Gracey Evans | The Globe Colten Gill, current Executive Director of theCam- of downtown Pittsburgh.” pus Activities Board.

By Dara Collins Staff Writer

Gill appreciates how the organization shaped his attitude. According to Gill, CAB pushed him out of his comfort zone, shaped his outgoing personality and prepared him for his future with its ever-changing atmosphere.

Director of Student Activities, Involvement and Leadership (SAIL) Brad Kovalcik describes Gill as one of the most driven and forward-thinking students he has had the opportunity to work with.

“I really like doing things that build communities and bring people together,” Gill said.

Some of Gill’s favorite CAB events include the first event he planned, Ping Pong Ball Drop, a recruiting event; Creative Experimental Musical Instrument Experience, an event in which students made music with their cell phones; the Halloween Dance at the Mattress Factory; and the annual Drag Show.

Following graduation and retirement from CAB, Gill plans to have a full-time career while working part time with the military. Gill joined the Army National Guard in October of 2016 and has been drilling and performing duties while inactive once a month since admission.

Gill currently works with other soldiers to prepare for basic training in a Recruit Sustainment Detachment.

He will attend boot camp over the summer for eight weeks and will be job training as a military intelligence analyst for 17 weeks.

Upon the conclusion of basic training, Gill is currently considering returning to Pittsburgh to pursue a master’s degree in urban development or urban design.

The thought of entering the military had never occurred to Gill prior to the sight of a re-

cruiting billboard.

“It just happened on me,” Gill said.

“I waited a few months because I wasn’t sure if I wanted to sign like an 8-year contract with the military, but after weighing the pros and cons I just felt like I would get so much out of it and be able to give a lot Sydney Patton | For the Globe back to the Kaitlyn Smith, incoming executive director of thelocal com- Campus Activities Board. munity by at the same time branch out doing it.”

As Gill’s time at Point and be my own person.”

Kovalcik oversees CAB Park fades, sophomore Kaitand the interviewing process lyn Smith is eager to begin the of new executive positions. He upcoming school year as the indescribes the executive director coming executive director. position as someone who has Smith is a business mana passion and vision for CAB, agement student with a concensomeone who serves as a role tration in marketing. She has model and someone excited to been involved with CAB since continue tradition. her freshman year as a general “Kait definitely stood out as board member of the Special someone who was really drivEvents Committee and tranen, really motivated and had a sitioned to the role of Special vision for where she wanted the Events Coordinator her sophorganization to go next year,” omore year. Smith also particiKovalcik said. pates on the women’s basketball Although Gill left his mark team as a point guard. on the organization and will be After a strong interview, greatly missed, Kovalcik looks Smith possessed an overall forward to the future plans good fit for the position, acSmith has in store for CAB. cording to Gill.

“I really think we can “I was a little bit nervous take CAB in a new direction just because our current executhat Colten’s already started,” tive director Colten Gill is aweSmith said. some,” Smith said. “He’s done a fantastic job this year as the executive director so I knew it was Dara Collins going to be a big moment to try dmcolli2@pointpark.edu and follow in his footsteps, but

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

FEATURES

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

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Children of history tackle sensitive time period

Playhouse debuts “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” in final show of season

By Victoria Lemon

Playhouse Beat Writer

Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” written in 1852, is an anti-slavery story that follows the life of a middle-aged slave, Tom. The adaptation of this novel by Jason Jacobs and Tome Cousin will be presented on the Rauh stage at the Pittsburgh Playhouse to finish out the 2016-17 Conservatory Theatre Company season.

Jacobs and Cousin’s adaptation includes modern concepts that were not before possible until now. Members of the cast have been immensely affected by this performance and the cultural meaning to their history.

Senior musical theatre major Tony Lorrich II, who plays Adolf in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” has been personally affected by the topics in the show and feels a distinct connection to it.

“My last name is Lorrich, which is a combination of my grandparents’ names: Lorraine and Richard,” Lorrich said. “My dad changed my last name from Wallace to Lorrich because Wallace was a slave name.”

“It’s a very different look at slavery and at the roles of slaves in white households,” Lorrich said.

Lorrich said that this show has connected him to his roots, ancestry and past in a way that he has never

John Altdorfer | Pittsburgh Playhouse

Lamont Walker II portrays the titular character in Uncle Tom’s Cabin, crediting his cultural background for giving the show more weight in his mind while performing. explored as an actor, giving him a better connection with himself and with the characters he is portraying.

Jacobs, co-director and co-author with Cousin, said the negative baggage attached to the play is what interested himself and Cousin to create their own adaptation. They met together to explore the genre and became interested in 19th century history.

The two chose “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” because of what it says about slavery and dealing with pressure.

Jacobs said he was de-

termined to erase the racial stereotypes that exist. The term “Uncle Tom” has become a racial slur. Jacobs and Cousin adapted the story with the intentions of reversing the negative connotations. They believe that the real Uncle Tom is an admirable hero.

“Society has developed its own definition of the term ‘Uncle Tom,’” said Lamont Walker II, a senior musical theater major who plays Tom in the show.

“Our show really gets to the heart of where that term came from and what it ac-

tually means.”

Jacobs said the play is a particularly risky show to perform because it is so misunderstood and peoples’ misconceptions may keep them from seeing the show for what it is.

Walker said this show has taken a toll on him during the process because of the sensitivity of the material presented.

“I’ve never been in a production where I’ve had to play something so historically accurate to my cultural history,” Walker said.

“To play a slave on stage, al-

though a powerful slave, is still something that affects me more than anything else I could possibly play.”

Jacobs believes the challenging aspects of this show are the most important to the student actors.

“Great art is always uncomfortable,” Jacobs said.

Jacobs said that the students he works with are talented, professional actors that are serious about working hard.

“I can treat them like professional actors,” Jacobs said.

While “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” is not a musical and was not cast with music as a priority, there is music underlying almost the entire show. The directors were impressed that the cast all ended up being amazing singers and are using their talents and instrumental knowledge to their advantage. The music in the show is made up of all original pieces composed by the show’s music director, Doug Levine.

The show opens in the Rauh Theatre at the Pittsburgh Playhouse on April 7 and will run until April 16.

There will be a preview on April 6. Tickets for non-students range from $10-$24 and can be purchased at the Playhouse’s box office at 222 Craft Ave. or by calling at (412)-392-8000.

Victoria Lemon vjlemon@pointpark.edu

Musical theatre program creates new partnership

Sophomores anticipate performing with the Pallas Theatre

By Kelsey Wolfe Copy Editor

Musical theatre students will have the opportunity to aid the development process of new musicals as part of a partnership with Pallas Theatre Collective: The New Musical Laboratory. Point Park University officially announced the new partnership on March 20.

Over the past three years, Pallas has brought readings of new productions to Point Park through its TableRead series. Past

readings have included “Crazy Mary Lincoln” and “The Fall of the House of Usher.”

“Our primary focus is that we stand kind of in the gap between the university setting and the regional theatre,” Tracey Brent-Chessum said in a phone interview on Friday.

Chessum is an assistant professor of theatre at Point Park as well as Pallas’ Artistic Director. She and Zeva Barzell, the head of musical theatre and an associate professor, led the efforts to create the

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partnership between Point Chessum said.

Park and Pallas.

The New Musical LabThe New Musical Lab- oratory, as did previous oratory will allow students collaborations with Palof the junior class to take las, will allow students to part in the development essentially build the new and perforshows from mance of a the ground new musical up, creating each spring. characters “ N e x t that have not spring, the been formed entire semesfamously beter will be fore. dedicated to “Someworking with times you people, with have other Pallas, the people to composers, look at to so that the see if you’re junior class doing it corwill be perrectly or if forming the you’re on the new works at right track, the end of the but with this, semester,” you’re on Barzell said. your own,” In previsophomore ous years, all musical themusical theatre major atre students Will Haubl were eligible said in an to audition interview and perform on Monday. with Pallas.

“It honestly With The Amanda Aiello gives you a New Musical Musical theatre major ton of artisL a b o r a t o r y , Point Park University tic freedom students will and creativibegin workty. You have ing during their sopho- the chance to make what more year to choose and you want of your character develop shows for the up- and make your own choiccoming year. es.”

“More than just the Haubl previously reading, [the program is] played Todd Lincoln in giving the composers the “Crazy Mary Lincoln” earchance to see the word on lier this spring alongside its feet and it’s giving the Amanda Aiello, junior mustudents the chance to cre- sical theatre student, who ate a role from scratch,” performed the title role in

“I think overall it was a really great experience, and it was really exciting to work in that collaborative way with people who are as passionate as we all are about theatre.”

the production. Aiello said in an interview on Monday that she really enjoyed working with the team of professionals on “Crazy Mary Lincoln,” as it was an experience for student performers to work with professionals and get a inside look on how new works are produced.

“I think overall it was a really great experience, and it was really exciting to work in that collaborative way with people who are as passionate as we all are about theatre,” Aiello said.

The New Musical Laboratory begins work this spring on two new musicals: “code name: CYNTHIA” and “Buried in Prosperity,” both works by Steve and Karen Multer.

A tentative reading of both projects is being planned for the fall at The Kennedy Center’s Page-toStage festival.

Those who have previously worked with Pallas before believe that the partnership will be beneficial on both sides.

“I think that bringing those two together is good for the students as a learning experience and good for Pallas to have a place to workshop their work,” junior musical theatre student Melvin Holley said.

For updates on The New Musical Laboratory program, visit the “New Musical Laboratory” page on Facebook or @nmlppu on Twitter.

Kelsey Wolfe kjwolfe@pointpark.edu

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OPINIONS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

GL BE’S POINT

At least women have a choice;

THE

USG elections -have your voice heard United Student Government (USG) is something we cover every week on our front page. We even took the time this semester to profile the vice presidential and presidential candidates in our news section. This week we bring you a ‘visual ballot’ of everyone running for office. Why this much coverage? It’s because USG is your government as a Point Park student and they directly seek to bridge the gap between us students and the administration, and we value this professional relationship.

When we have questions about the food service, the Wi-Fi, events happening on campus or club funding -- USG should be our go-to resource. This election is our chance to hand select the members of our student body we want to speak on our behalf.

According to Charlene Cusick, the Executive Assistant in the Office of Student Affairs, only 56 people voted in the USG election last year. Why are we, deemed by many as the activist generation, choosing to stay silent?

Around 4,000 students attend our university. That means about 1.4 percent of our student body voted for the student leaders that arguably have the most impact on our college experience.

56 people spoke up to select the student leaders among 4,000. Just think about that.

Voting in this election couldn’t be any simpler. Every Point Park student received an email with a link for the PointSync form.

Additionally, you can go to bit.ly/VoteUSG2017 directly to cast your ballot. A few clicks later and you’ve exercised your rights. You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your bed.

The students running for these offices want to work with you. They have all taken time to debate and answer your questions and we should acknowledge that. Want to be more informed? Read our profiles in previous editions and on ppuglobe.com.

It is our opinion at the Globe that the candidates running are well-qualified to serve you. It is not our purpose to tell you who to vote for, which is why we did not endorse candidates, but we can tell you that it matters that you cast a vote.

It is our hope that through our efforts, the student body is as well informed possible on their choices. Now it’s up to you, the student, to have your voice heard.

The Point Park Globe globe@pointpark.edu

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

A student speaks up for reproductive rights By: Nikole Kost Features Photo Editor

Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe V. Wade in 1973, federal law has protected a woman’s right to choose if she wants an abortion.

I personally believe that a woman has the right to make her own choices regarding her body. Yes, common belief is that abortion is the “easy” way out of the mistake of getting pregnant; however, even if it is, we as citizens of the United States have the right to privacy, meaning our personal information is protected from public scrutiny.

Another common belief is if you get pregnant, you need to take responsibility for your actions. Is keeping the child the only option considered responsible?

If getting an abortion is avoiding responsibility, which implies that it’s a woman’s obligation to raise a baby if she chooses to be sexually active, it seems as if you are sexualizing women for what they are “made” to do instead of actually taking accountability for the life of her child.

And no, I am not an extreme feminist.

Now, say the woman takes responsibility for having sex and getting pregnant and decides to keep the child. If the mother knows she won’t be able to provide for her child to the full extent, is it actually more responsible to put the child up for adoption or have an abortion?

Yes, women can practice safe sex and avoid pregnancy. If she and her partner choose not to use protection and end up getting pregnant, I believe that the couple is at fault and need to own up to their mistake. In that case, I do not believe in abortion unless you have some medical reasoning that would cause a deformity.

On the other side, not everyone has access to contraception or proper sex education on how to use contraception or where to get it. However, if contraception were free and available, would all women use it? Probably not, nor is any contraception 100 percent effective. Would women turn to abortion as a form of contraception?

A lot of people, including myself, think it’s acceptable to have an abortion if the woman was raped and impregnated.

On the other hand, why only in the case of rape?

If a child is conceived from rape, is the child worth less than the children who were knowingly conceived?

That is one of the top reasons why I am prochoice. In that case, is adoption a good alternative to abortion?

Well, maybe if you are pro-life. However, there is an overwhelming amount of children already going into the foster care system. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Children’s Bureau, in 2015, approximately 270,000 children

entered the foster care system, while only approximately 62,400 children got adopted in that federal fiscal year.

A lot of people believe that as taxpayers, they shouldn’t have to pay for abortions. Well, the Hyde Amendment, a legislative provision barring the use of certain federal funds to pay for abortion except to save the life of the woman or if the pregnancy arises from incest or rape, has protected taxpayers who oppose abortions from having to pay for them.

I also believe it is important to point out that only three percent of Planned Parenthood’s services are abortions. A majority of their services include contraception, mammograms, pap smears, STI testing, treatment for both men and women and sex education.

I know what you’re thinking, “What if your mother aborted you?” Well, that’s simple.

If my mother aborted me, I wouldn’t have any recollection of being aborted or even be able to realize I ever existed.

Do you remember being weeks old in your mother’s cervix after being conceived?

Either way, my mother would have had a choice, and you should be grateful that all women in the United States have that choice.

Nikole Kost nkost@pointpark.edu.

In our time of sublime rebirth: the best and worst things about spring By: Iain Oldman Staff Writer

The March 20 passing of the 2017 spring equinox brought the casual fanfare and celebration that we have learned to culturally associate with the year’s first warm season. Spring, the rebirth, the renaissance season, the physical manifestation of humankind’s warming hearts and enduring spirit, is here.

And why shouldn’t we celebrate the oncoming of spring, the favorite season of baseball enthusiasts, pagans and umbrella manufacturers?

The world has, once again, survived the maudlin trials of winter, in which we are forced to huddle inside our domiciles and resort to our wits, consciousness or honesty to connect with our fellow humans.

Spring marks the end of winter’s death rattle. Spring is the season to enjoy new, warmer weather. Spring brings the return of stupefying flora and fauna.

Spring also means that scores of polar bears are dying because the polar ice caps are melting at an exorbitant rate.

I always get excited at the outbreak of spring’s first glorious weekend, two days of beautiful, toasty weather that graces my skin. At the suggestion of the budding tree line, I pack up my tent, travel sack and hiking gear and head directly into the woods. The forest returns to life in those early days of spring, and I observe with wonder as the woodlands stretch and rustle, as if nature was slowly arising from a regenerative slumber. I can’t help but walk for miles and miles in appreciation of this great and awesome splendor.

Polar bears, however, can barely find room to walk at all anymore because the polar ice caps are melting out from under them. A recent study by Ohio State University determined that Greenland’s coastal ice sheet will be permanently lost by the year 2100, less than a century away, which will cause the

global sea level to rise by more than 1.5 inches.

The extreme loss of stable and consistent ice sheets means that polar bears are losing precious hunting and mating grounds. One has to wonder if polar bears have a more macabre consideration for spring.

But not me, I love spring.

One aspect of this vibrant season that always brings me to feverish bouts of wonder is when I hear the birdsong of the flocks returning north from their Caribbean respite.

My ears perk up in bated anticipation at the first sound of songbirds playing their flutes, singing to the aromatic, supple spirit of the romantic season.

This beautiful evidence of the return of wildlife inspires me, forcing me out of my shell, allowing me to re-invent myself in this new, warmer period of renaissance as well.

Polar bears are quickly dying now, which means they might not be returning for too many springs. The U.S. Fish

and Wildlife Service predicts that by 2050, one-third of the remaining 26,000 polar bears on earth will die off, drastically cutting into their numbers.

The prominent factor for this is the increasing pace and scope of the melting of the polar ice caps, the natural habitat and traditional home of the polar bear. Did you know polar bears are going extinct?

Arctic sea ice levels reached a record wintertime low in the 2016-17 winter season, according to a survey of data and satellite images

by NASA and the National Snow and Ice Data Center.

The levels of sea ice, which polar bears use in their travels across the vast expanse of the Arctic, were the lowest since the records began in 1979.

We’re currently out of wintertime, though, having finally realized our escape from the grey, dour oppression of winter’s bitter wrath. For the first time since December, I discover myself overwhelmed with stamina and aspiration, gently pushed forward by the

green expanses and goldenrod sun rays of spring’s magnificent glory.

Humankind, as a whole, quickly pulls itself out of cabins and dens, woken from its annual hibernation. Our wonderful city, Pittsburgh, springs to life. Spring is evident in the gushing, spirited bodies of the Three Rivers. Spring is evident in the clanging bells of bicyclists. Spring is evident in the laughter of children extolling their joy across many of our city’s expansive parks.

I love spring, despite the fact that I am burdened by the exhausting knowledge that polar bears are dying as a result of extreme climate changes enacted because of the indifference and hubris of mankind. I love spring because it overwhelms me with its beauty, feeding me its aspiration, hope and newborn strength.

Oh, did you know polar bears are going extinct?

Iain Oldman idoldma@pointpark.edu

Covering the world of Point Park University news since 1967

Point Park

GLOBE

The Globe board consists of Alexander Popichak, Emily Bennett and fellow editors. Opinion articles, letters to the editor, columns and cartoons do not necessarily reflect the position of the newspaper or editorial board. The Globe reserves the right to refuse advertising and edit all submitted articles and letters to the editor. Letters to the editor must be signed and include the author’s contact information. Offices are located in rooms 710 and 712 Lawrence Hall. Writers should address letters to:

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The deadline for ads is Friday at 5 p.m.

The Globe 201 Wood Street, Box 23 Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Story Ideas If you have a news, sports, opinions or feature story that you think the Globe can use, email globe@pointpark.edu.

Alexander Popichak, Editor-in-Chief Emily Bennett, Editor-Elect Autumn Barszczowski, Business Manager Dr. Steven Hallock, Faculty Adviser

Robert Berger, Co-Sports Editor Sabrina Bodon, Online Editor Carley Bonk, Copy Editor Lauren Clouser, Staff Writer Dara Collins, Staff Writer Josh Croup, Co-Sports Editor, Editor Emeritus Jonathan D’Antoni, Delivery Assistant Gracey Evans, Sports Photo Editor Julianne Griffith, Layout Editor Alex Grubbs, USG Beat Writer Matthew Hankinson, Copy Editor Casey Hoolahan, Social Media Coordinator Chloe Jakiela, News Photo Editor James Kail, Copy Editor Arianna Khalil, Graphic Designer Nikole Kost, Features Photo Editor Victoria Lemon, Playhouse Beat Writer Derek Malush, Staff Writer Morgan McCoy, Public Relations Coordinator

Jonnah McClintock, Copy Editor Kayla Novak, Copy Editor Hannah O’Toole, Asst. Social Media Coordinator Iain Oldman, Staff Writer Isabelle Opsitos, Graphic Designer Lauren Ortego, Co-Copy Desk Chief Nicole Pampena, Co-Features Editor Matt Petras, Staff Writer Carrie Reale, Co-Copy Desk Chief Michael Richter, Co-News Editor Allison Schubert, Copy Editor Jordan Slobodinsky, Co-Opinions Editor Kristin Snapp, Editor Emeritus Kayla Snyder, Co-News Editor Eddie Trizzino, Co-Features Editor Mike Turk, Staff Writer Beth Turnbull, Co-Opinions Editor Hannah Walden, Copy Editor Kelsey Wolfe, Copy Editor

SPORTS

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

CROUP’S CORNER

By Josh Croup Sports Columnist

Dominant Duo It’s been a while since Nolan Krivijanski has given up an earned run.

Team USA was preparing for its first game in the World Baseball Classic, which it eventually won.

The NCAA Tournament was more than a week away from Selection Sunday. Donald Trump’s wiretapping tweet dominated news headlines.

The date was March 10 at West Virginia University.

Krivijanski gave up three earned runs in the third inning, but the Pioneers rallied to win 7-3.

Since that third inning on March 10, Krivijanski has tossed 24-straight scoreless innings, which include three complete games, a perfect game and a one-hitter.

He kept the ball rolling Saturday in Butler, Pa. against Ohio Christian. He gave up eight hits, but still did not allow an earned run in Point Park’s 6-1 victory.

Krivijanski has pounded the zone in the scoreless streak, relying heavily on the fastball that has created weak contact.

The opponent hasn’t mattered. Whether the opposing offense is complete or has holes, Krivijanski has approached each team with the same mindset: throw heat and make them beat him.

“We’re not letting our guard down,” Krivijanski said. “In the past, we’ve played down to our competition.”

Nick Beardsley didn’t let his guard down in game two Saturday, throwing a no-hitter against the Trailblazers in a 16-0 win.

The two have been pitching on the same day as of late and have developed a friendly competition that pushes one to one-up the other. Beardsley joked with Krivijanski after his one-hitter last week that followed his perfect game.

“Man, another tough one to follow up on,” Beardsley told Krivijanski.

Well, he followed it up.

Beardsley improved to

3-0 on the season and lowered his ERA to 0.85. Krivijanski improved to 5-1 and lowered his ERA to 1.80.

The duo keeps lowering their ERA and increasing their win total, a sign of good things to come.

“I told him I was proud of him and he deserved it,” Krivijanski said. “He’s always had great stuff and he’s really putting it together this year. It’s great to watch.”

Point Park is taking care of business, winning the games it should in the fashion it should. They’re games that the Pioneers should dominate, and they have so far.

Blowing out and shutting out teams at the bottom of the conference is important to the confidence of the team as a whole, and has helped Krivijanski extend his scoreless streak.

“Once you have a good start, you get a little bit of confidence and build off of that from each start,” Krivijanski said.

Beardsley has allowed three earned runs all season through eight appearances and four starts. He has complete games in two of his last three starts, including Saturday’s no-hitter.

The starting role and the newfound one-two punch for both Krivijanski and Beardsley has worked out well so far for the Pioneers, and will help prepare them for the next two River States Conference (RSC) series that could determine their postseason fate.

Point Park gets a weekend of conference action off next week before hitting the road to play Midway, which is 16-4 in the RSC, and Indiana University Southeast, which is 13-3 in the RSC, two weeks later.

In the meantime, the duo will continue to grow their friendly competition to try and pitch the Pioneers to a RSC championship.

Josh Croup jdcroup@pointpark.edu

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD: MARCH 28 - APRIL 3 BASEBALL (23-7) (16-4 RSC) OHIO CHRISTIAN 1, POINT PARK 6*............................................ April 1 OHIO CHRISTIAN 0, POINT PARK 16*.......................................... April 1 OHIO CHRISTIAN 5, POINT PARK 11*.......................................... April 3 OHIO CHRISTIAN 4, POINT PARK 9*........................................... April 3 Next: April 4 @ Shawnee State (Ohio); April 7 @ Fisher (Mass.); April 8 @ College of St. Joseph (Vt.)

SOFTBALL (11-12) (4-2 RSC) POINT PARK 9, WAYNESBURG 0 (5 inn.)..................................... March 29 POINT PARK 6, WAYNESBURG 5 .................................................. March 29 POINT PARK 5, ASBURY 0*............................................................. April 1 POINT PARK 5, ASBURY 1*.............................................................. April 1 POINT PARK 1, MIDWAY 2 (11 inn.)*............................................. April 2 POINT PARK 0, MIDWAY 1 (8 inn.)*.............................................. April 2 Next: April 5 vs. Chatham; April 7 vs. Ohio Christian*; April 8 vs. Cincinnati Chriatian *River States Conference game

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

7

Beardsley no-hits OCU Pitchers continue dominance, stretch streak to 14

By Jordan Slobodinsky Co-Opinions Editor

Sophomore pitcher Nick Beardsley threw a no-hitter for the Pioneers on Saturday against Ohio Christian.

Beardsley’s win was in the second game of the day and resulted in the second win for the Pioneers after senior pitcher Nolan Krivijanski pitched a complete game in the first contest.

“In the beginning of the game I didn’t even think I felt too good,” Beardsley said. “As the game went on, I realized I was perfect, and I [was] pretty upset when I walked a guy.”

Only two batters reached base during Beardsley’s campaign, one via a walk and the other was the product of a wild pitch after a strikeout.

“I wanted to keep the no-hitter going,” Beardsley said. “I just went out that last inning and adrenaline kicked in. When it happened, I blacked out and just kept screaming.”

In the first game of the doubleheader at Kelly Automotive Park in Butler, Pa., Krivijanski, who was coming off a perfect game two weeks ago and a one-hitter last week, went the distance and gave up one unearned run.

Krivijanski gave up eight hits, one walk and struck out four in the contest.

Point Park struck early in the game as they scored two runs in the first inning and four runs in the second inning. Junior center fielder Stefan Mrkonja and designated hitter Richard Perez both contributed to spur the offense early in the game. In the first inning, Mrkonja hit a single and scored on Perez’s RBI single.

Junior right-fielder Edberg Dominguez hit a single that scored another run later in the inning. Junior second baseman Andy Herrera and senior shortstop Cole John-

Page 7 photos by Sam Robinson | Point Park Athletics

Nick Beardsley delivers a pitch early in his no-hitter Saturday against Ohio Christian University in a 16-0 victory. son started the inning with a pair of singles. Junior catcher Chris Hernandez then drove in two runs with a base hit.

The Pioneers won 6-1.

The nightcap showed a more productive Point Park offense, as the Pioneers ended the game with 18 hits en route to a 16-0 win. Mrkonja hit two doubles and had four RBIs while Johnson went 2-4 with a double and four RBIs. Perez got three more hits and collected two RBIs. Eight of the first nine batters Point Park sent to the plate scored. The Pioneers batted around the order for the first two innings and put up 13 runs on 13 hits.

The teams took Sunday off and returned to Green Tree Park Monday for the Pioneers’ first true home game of the season to wrap up the four-game series.

The Pioneers took the first game of Monday’s con-

Senior shortstop Cole Johnson looks to throw to first Saturday against Ohio Christian. Point Park improved to 16-4 in the RSC.

MEN’S OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD SLIPPERY ROCK DAVE LABOR INVITATIONAL......................... April 1 200 meters: Barlow, 1st (22.51 seconds) 800 meters: Stephens, 1st (2 minutes, 1.65 seconds) Triple jump: Carter, 1st (14.04 meters)

test 11-5 and again struck early with the offense. Senior pitcher Antony Garofalo started the game and went 2.1 innings. Garofalo gave up eight hits, three runs and no walks while striking out one.

The Pioneers scored two runs in the first inning, but fell behind 3-2 after the top of the second inning. In the bottom on the second inning, the Pioneers struck back by scoring four runs. Senior first baseman Emmanuel Lopez highlighted the inning with a three-run home run.

Ohio Christian tallied two more runs in the fifth and sixth inning, but were ultimately defeated by a solid Point Park bullpen.

The final game of the series resulted in another Point Park victory, completing its third sweep in as many weeks.

Point Park jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first. In the fourth inning the Pioneers scored four runs, highlighted by another threerun home run from Lopez.

During the next two innings, Point Park accumulated four more runs, eventually leading to a 9-4 win for Point Park. Addison Domingo went six innings and gave up two runs to earn his sixth win of the season.

Point Park improved to 23-7 and currently stands at 16-4 in the Rivers States Conference. The Pioneers will travel to New England this weekend for non-conference games, and continues conference play April 14-15 at Midway, which is currently 16-4 in the RSC.

Jordan Slobodinsky jeslobo@pointpark.edu

Next: April 8 @ Westminster Titan Invitational

WOMEN’S OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD SLIPPERY ROCK DAVE LABOR INVITATIONAL......................... April 1 1,500 meters: Shields, 1st ( 4 minutes, 34.45 seconds) - National qualifier 5,000 meters: Guarnaccia, 2nd (18 minutes, 48 seconds) Lappe, 4th (19 minutes, 43.17 seconds) Next: April 8 @ Westminster Titan Invitational

MEN’S GOLF CMU SPRING INVITATIONAL, 13th place................................. March 30 Max Kaminski: T-13th place (82) Next: @ CMU Spring Shootout, April 8-9

WOMEN’S GOLF GROVE CITY INVITATIONAL, 2nd place................................... April 1 Priscilla Nevarez: Won individual title (90) Next: @ CMU Spring Shootout, April 8-9

NOW OFFering Piercing

8

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2017

SPORTS

THE GLOBE NEWSPAPER POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

Venezuelan-native settling in to leadership role Outfielder returns from injury to find success at plate for Pioneers

By Robert Berger Co-Sports Editor

When watching some of his favorite professional baseball players play in his home country, Edberg Dominguez began to fall in love with the sport.

After picking up a glove, Dominguez played throughout high school after moving to Miami, Fla. which lead to his recruitment by Point Park.

After an impressive rookie year, Dominguez was sidelined due to an injury for the entirety of what would have been his sophomore season. This year, Dominguez is back on the field for the Pioneers as their starting right fielder.

Dominguez grew up with his parents and brother in Caracas, Venezuela.

Growing up in Latin America, Dominguez was exposed

to sports for as long as he can remember. Unsure of the age, he picked up baseball after his family encouraged him to try out a sport.

“My family wanted me to play a sport because my name is Edberg, which is also the name of a famous tennis player,” Dominguez said.

Exposure to baseball is inevitable to a kid growing up in South America.

During the MLB offseason, Dominguez remembers watching professional players in the Venezuela Winter League, as Caracas hosts two teams.

“Watching them play was awesome,” Dominguez said. “You would see guys like Roy Halladay play in the spring and watch them go on to win the Cy Young award that year.”

Dominguez played baseball in his home coun-

try from his childhood through his sophomore year of high school. According to Dominguez, America’s take on the sport is more methodical when compared to Venezuela.

“I think you see more fastballs over there,” Dominguez said. “Here, pitchers try to throw you different kinds of pitches which makes for a tough transition.”

After moving to Miami with his uncle after his sophomore year of high school, Dominguez played his junior and senior season at Brito High school, the same school Manny Machado of the Baltimore Orioles played for and attended.

“In Venezuela, you play in leagues of players within two years of your age,” Dominguez said. “Playing high school here was very different because you’re

Page 8 photos by Sam Robinson | Point Park Athletics

Edberg Dominguez bats Saturday against Ohio Christian University. He is hitting .338 through his first 24 games with 24 RBIs and one home run. The Venezuelan is playing right field for the Pioneers in his junior season with Point Park.

playing with people that are four years apart and you can definitely tell a freshman from a senior.”

Dominguez graduated high school in 2013.

He finished the season batting .385 and earned himself All-American honors.

Out of high school, Dominguez was recruited by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) school, St. Thomas University. A redshirt his freshman year, Dominguez was being observed by Point Park because of a connection through head coach Loren Torres.

“My coach in Florida knew Coach Torres from high school and it was an instant connection,” Dominguez said.

In his rookie year as a Pioneer, Dominguez played 41 games in right field and finished with a .289 batting average. He scored 25 runs for the team and drove in six.

After his promising start, Dominguez was looking to pick up where he left off his sophomore year.

However, during the 2015 fall season, Dominguez was injured while sliding into second base during a double play situation.

“I was stuck between sliding and stopping, and my knee buckled underneath me,” Dominguez said.

“I had to ask the doctor if I would play baseball again, it was that serious.”

A torn ACL and Meniscus was the diagnosis.

Luckily for Dominguez, good news came from the doctor, who said he could return to the field after a year of rehab. After nearly 16 months, Dominguez

returned to the field this spring during the Pioneers’ trip to Florida.

“He’s recovered incredibly well from the injury,” Torres said. “He’s definitely a spark to our lineup.”

Now an upperclassman for the Pioneers, Dominguez is seen as a role model to many of the younger players fighting for roster spots.

“Whether with the team or by himself, he’s always in the gym working,” sophomore Jesse Iellimo said. “It’s motivating to see how far he’s come since the injury.”

This season, Dominguez has played in 24 games and is hitting for a .338 average.

He’s driven in 23 runs for the Pioneers so far.

Assistant Coach Shane Conley played with Dominguez during his freshman season before the injury.

“It’s hard to coach him after the friendship we made playing together,” Conley said. “He works on everything I tell him and he respects me as a coach, which is the best part.”

Since moving to the country and attending Point Park, Dominguez has adjusted well to living in the United States.

“Coming to Pittsburgh was an awesome transition,” Dominguez said.

“I’ve got to meet new cultures and experience a whole new way to live and I really like it.”

As for a career after college, Dominguez isn’t ruling anything out.

“My main focus is school and helping the team, but if the opportunity is there I’d love to keep playing baseball after college,” Dominguez said.

Robert Berger raberge@pointpark.edu

Alumnus details work on Super Bowl ad campaign

By Robert Berger Co-Sports Editor

Point Park alumnus Miles Ritenour spent last Thursday afternoon in 701 of the Student Center offering advice on college, insight into his marketing job with Bud Light and the importance of making connections.

Ritenour, a 2010 graduate of Point Park, has a degree in advertising and public relations. As a student, he held a number of internships throughout the city, one of which was with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Point Park professor Bob O’Gara had Ritenour as a student.

“Miles took this school for everything he could get,” O’Gara said. “If there’s anything this school is, it’s connected.”

While he did not have a job lined up after graduating, Ritenour found work with Ketchum Sports and Enter-

tainment as an intern. While at Ketchum, he worked in social media with clients such as Pepsi, Gillette and Samsung. Eventually the internship lead to a full time job in New York City.

“If you’re graduating and you don’t have anything lined up yet, that’s okay,” Ritenour said.

Currently, Ritenour is the marketing communications manager for Anheuser-Busch. Working specifically for the Bud Light and Mexican import brands, Ritenour focuses on leveraging sponsorships with the NFL, NBA and the Mexican National Soccer Team.

“When you’re the biggest sponsor, you get a lot of hate from the media,” Ritenour said.

Much of Ritenour’s day consists of working with different media outlets and ensuring Bud Light has a positive public image.

Along with his daily tasks, Ritenour shared his

experience working on Anheuser-Busch’s Super Bowl campaigns. He focused on one campaign in particular, the Bud Light golden can. The company placed 37,000 golden cans in packages across the country. One lucky golden can could be redeemed for lifelong Super Bowl tickets.

“One of the things I really love about my job is that sometimes we get to give people the opportunity of a lifetime,” Ritenour said. “It feels like I’m doing some-

“I’m shocked anyone can go as far as he’s gone so young.”

Camille Downing

Instructor, School of Communication

thing more than just selling someone beer.”

Making connections along the way in students’ careers is another point Ritenour stressed. When naming various internships he held as a student, Ritenour noted each came from a connection made at a previous spot he held.

Along with connections in the industry, Ritenour stressed the importance of getting involved at school.

Ritenour is a former sports editor of the Point Park Globe.

Professor Camille Downing also had Ritenour as a student and attended the event.

“He was definitely one of my better students and he was always driven,” Downing said. “I’m shocked anyone can go as far as he’s gone so young.”

To conclude the event, Miles compiled a slideshow of six things students should take away from the presentation: get involved, be willing to give your time,

find internships, accept not getting paid, make sacrifices and that working in sports is not a 9-5 job.

“He reaffirmed to me that we should take advantage of the connections our professors have,” sports, arts and entertainment management freshman Toni Mildanov said. “The world of business is about networking, so it’s something students should focus on.”

Each semester, the Pittsburgh Center for Sports Media and Marketing works to bring speakers to talk to students about working in the sports and entertainment industry.

Past events featured the NBC’s Doc Emrick, the Pittsburgh Pirate’s Greg Brown and voice of the Cleveland Cavaliers Fred McLeod. This was the final event of the year for the center.

Robert Berger raberge@pointpark.edu