The Slate 1-26-16

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania theslateonline.com

Volume 68, No. 12

January 26, 2016 @ShipUSlate TheSlate @ShipUSlate

White out at the Oscars, B2

Black Lives Matter, C2

A final bow for Bowie and Rickman, D1

Let it snow, let it snow, A4

Manning looks to buck Panthers, E2

Celebrating 59 years as Shippensburg University’s student-run campus newspaper.

Management

Mary Grace Keller....Editor-in-Chief Laura Kreiser......Managing Editor

News

Troy S. Okum..........Editor Jessica Richardson.....Asst. Editor Derek Evanosky.......Asst. Editor

Opinion

Kayla Corbin..............Editor Josh Torzillo....Asst. Editor

Ship Life

Nicole James....Editor Yvette Betancourt....Asst. Editor

Sports

William Whisler.............Editor Cat Amoriello.......Asst. Editor Bob Murray...Asst. Editor

A&E

Tyler M. Law............ Editor Justin Lee...........Asst. Editor

Graphics

Kyle Keevill.........Chief Designer Thomas Witmer........Asst. Designer

Hoverboards banned at SU due to safety concerns DEREK EVANOSKY

Asst. News Editor Shippensburg University officials said that hoverboards are banned on campus because of safety reasons, according to a news release published on Jan. 14 on ship.edu.

Hoverboards, a self-balancing, two-wheeled board, present a host of safety risks. From operator error to catching on fire, SU officials believe there are enough reasons to ban the devices from campus.

“A fire in a campus building, especially in a residence hall, caused by a hoverboard is an unacceptable safety risk and, after careful consideration, the university has banned hoverboards effective immediately from campus,” the news release states.

Hoverboards became a cultural icon in 2015, following a surge of Internet videos that showcased the device’s ability to bring attention to its users. Social media websites like Twitter and Facebook contained numerous videos of users injuring themselves and the devices catching fire.

“While the devices pose risk of injuries to novice riders, the more serious problem that has been reported is the number of hoverboards that have caught fire and in at least one case destroyed a home,” the news release states.

SU officials said they will review the necessity of the ban as new information becomes available, but until that time they are banned.

Photography

Amanda Mehall....Editor Joseph Ketchem... Asst. Editor

Copy

Christian Bahnweg..........Editor Ali Laughman....Asst. Editor

Public Relations

Darin Robillard............Director Brooke Ready....Asst. Director

Web

Sylvia McMullen....Director Michael McCollough...Asst. Director

Advertising

Matt Kline.........Director Alex Balla...Asst. Director

Adviser

Dr. Michael Drager...........Adviser

SU administrators ask student workers to complete background checks

Shippensburg University officials are reminding student workers to fill out the required criminal background checks or they will not be allowed to work. The following is a statement from SU’s communications and marketing department: Student workers need to complete mandated background checks.

Current and new students who work on campus must complete mandated background checks before they will be able to work this semester.

In December 2014, a policy established by the Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education requires all university employees, including student workers, to obtain three criminal background checks. The checks include one by the Pennsylvania State Police, one by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Child Abuse office and an FBI fingerprint check.

Any student worker who has not completed the background checks will not be allowed to work until all three checks are completed and

submitted to the Human Resources Office.

Student workers were sent a release form and information sheet to be completed and returned to the Human Resources office. Once the forms are returned, the Human Resources office will order the first background check from Pennsylvania State Police and email the student instructions and a unique prepaid code to be used for ordering the Department of Human Services Child Abuse check.

Human Resources also will register the student worker for the FBI fingerprint check and send the student worker a unique authorization code to be taken to the fingerprint location, such as the UPS store on campus.

FBI background check results are mailed to the student’s home address and must be brought in to the Human Resources office, 109 Old Main, as soon as they are received.

For more information or to ask specific questions, please contact the Human Resources Office at hr@ ship.edu.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Petkov A set of palm and finger prints are required to complete the Hoverboards move when the user leans forward or backward. FBI background check and can be done at the SU UPS store.

WEATHER FORECAST

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News slatenews@gmail.com

Slate

A2 January 26, 2016

38

Wednesday

43 Today’s Weather

Chance of Freezing Rain

Partly Cloudy

43

Saturday

Partly Cloudy

34

Thursday

Sunny

46

Sunday

Chance of Rain

37

Friday

Mostly Cloudy

46

Monday

Cloudy

Slate

A3 News SU to disburse funds despite budget impasse January 26, 2016

slatenews@gmail.com

Faculty not to be laid off in face of $1 million deficit Troy Okum

News Editor Shippensburg University announced in January that it will be fronting money to students who are still awaiting their grants from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and that PHEAA is expected to disburse funds in several weeks.

PHEAA’s website states that it is reviewing the governor and General Assembly’s actions before processing any money.

“Rest assured, we are working diligently to disburse award funds as quickly as we can,” the website states. “Please note that this affects all state and federal programs administered by PHEAA.” Until PHEAA starts any disbursements, SU is offering up to $1,200 per student to about 2,000 students to clear their spring 2016 bill and to pay for housing, food and other expenses. SU sent emails to those students who receive PHEAA grants. Students whose bills are cleared and expect a refund should email the Financial Aid Office.

SU’s temporary solution is a result of Pennsylvania’s ongoing budget impasse and it mirrors the

General Assembly’s stopgap. Legislators approved a budget late last December, but instead of agreeing on a new one they have adopted last year’s budget. The 2015-2016 budget is still being worked on, according to SU President George “Jody” Harpster, but with the current appropriation plan SU’s budget is going to be approximately $1 million short.

“We’re still going to be, in the spring, after all the cuts we’ve made and all the other things we have done, about a million dollars short,” Harpster said. “So we now work on an alternative plan to find another million dollars worth of cuts to make it until the end of this semester.”

Harpster said SU administrators started conversations about how to cut the deficit and balance the budget, but faculty entrenchment will not be considered. Though he was not able to name any specific cuts, Harpster gave examples of how money could be saved, including reducing landscaping services and waiting to repaint the walls of a building.

“At the current time there is no plan and no direct conversation underway to have any layoffs of any employees,” Harpster said. He said

that applies for the current semester and the next academic year under the expected financial scenarios the university will be facing. Though faculty may not be laid off, there are 120 vacancies at SU in a multitude of positions. This is largely a result of employees resigning and their positions not being replaced, in order to save money.

The deficit may shrink by twothirds if the General Assembly passes a new budget for this fiscal year, according to Harpster. Republican legislators said they intend to increase funding for the Pennsylvania State System for Higher Education by 3 percent or even 5 percent, which is drastically less than Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposed 11 percent increase, but still enough to significantly help SU. Harpster said some of the university’s budget problems will be solved once the per-credit-tuition model is implemented next semester. The model will charge students a tuition rate that is based on the number of credit hours a student takes per semester, and will generate additional revenue for SU and funds for student aid.

Read more at theslateonline.com

Photo by Troy Okum

Pennsylvania has been without a 2015–2016 budget since July, hindering students’ abilities to pay for college expenses.

Senior student takes initiative, starts charity Jessica Richardson Asst. News Editor

Most full-time students are thinking about how to pass classes and have a social life. However, one undergraduate biology major is thinking about a board of executives, a mission statement, and a uniqueness—all things needed for the initial stages of a nonprofit organization.

After interning with a third-party patient advocate service, Connect Care 3, a Shippensburg University student is taking what he learned to start up a new nonprofit organization.

Alex “Bard” Lombardo is in

the beginning stages of creating a non-profit that raises funds to help those with cancer pay for insurance premiums, medications and other hefty cost that come with the treatments.

During his internship Lombardo heard stories of cancer patients being unable to pay for bills and medication. Sending appeals to insurance companies to get help takes too much time, according to Lombardo. He saw a need for an organization and decided to start one himself.

He plans to name the nonprofit Cancer Care Foundation. Lombardo is in collaboration with two other SU students, Wardell Jackson, Zach Sinz and his brother, Peter

Photo by Jessica Richardon

Alex “Bard” Lombardo

Lombardo, who attends Temple University.

“I came up with the idea and approached them [two weeks ago] to help because they are all go-getters and each of us had family members affected by cancer,” Lombardo said.

To start the process, Lombardo and his partners must raise money for their 501-C3, a form where a nonprofit organization is exempt from federal income tax. They also need to get more paperwork approved, which takes an estimated 100 hours to fill out.

“We see our biggest hurdle as raising money for the 501-C3 which, according to my research can be anywhere from $400 to

$800,” Lombardo said.

The group also has to decide the location and do more research on criteria, financial assistance and whether or not the nonprofit will be national or regional. Lombardo hopes that the organization can be national because neighboring regions could be in need too.

“It is a learning process for all of us,” Lombardo said.

To help raise money, Lombardo and his partners plan to set up a website.

Lombardo has a meeting with Susquehanna Score Free, a mentor service for the legal process of starting a nonprofit, on Tuesday, Jan. 26 to officially start the process.

News

Slate

January 26, 2016

A4

slatenews@gmail.com

Snowstorm slams SU, class cancellation ensues

Photos by Troy Okum

Nearly 3 feet of snow buries the bottom of the Shippensburg University sign near Old Main.

Troy Okum

News Editor The weekend snowstorm, nicknamed Jonas, was the largest blizzard to blanket Shippensburg University since 1996, and the second biggest one since records began in 1938.

The storm lasted for more than 24 hours, totaling 32.4 inches of snowfall, according to the National

Weather Service and Timothy Hawkins, SU professor of geography and earth science.

Snow flurries began covering the ground at about 2:30 p.m. on Friday and several inches accumulated by nightfall. The snow partly buried vehicles on Saturday, and the streets were only plowed enough for foot traffic and capable vehicles.

SU officials sent students several emails over the weekend, informing

them that classes on Monday were cancelled.

Shippensburg Mayor Bruce Hockersmith declared a winter weather emergency for Shippensburg Borough on Friday. The act banned parking on Burd, King, Orange and North Prince Streets, among other roadways. Gov. Tom Wolf declared a state of emergency for Pennsylvania on Jan. 21, to take preemptive actions for the storm.

SU students and residents of Richard Avenue pass a football during the snowstorm on Saturday in the cleared road.

This week on campus

A barrage of snow hits the hill of Old Main and covers the roads and walkways leading to it.

A pair of snowplows push through the storm on Richard Avenue, leaving it partially accessible throughout Saturday.

26 27 28 29 30 January

On Tuesday, ShipRec is holding group fitness classes for SU students in room 107. Yoga Revival class is from 2:30-3:30 p.m. and Zumba is from 4-5 p.m.

On Wednesday, the Activities Program Board is hosting a “Hot Cocoa and Candy Bar� in the Great Hall of the CUB from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

On Thursday, the 29th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March for Humanity will be held in the CUB MPR. It is open to the public and begins at 3:30 p.m.

On Friday, the Council of Trustees is having a public meeting. The meeting will be held in Old Main 206 and will start at 11 a.m.

On Saturday, the social work department is hosting Inclusive Basketball from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Henderson Gymanasium.

Ship

Speaks shipspeaks@gmail.com

B1 January 26, 2016

Tainted water in Michigan Residents poisoned by their own government, writer says KAYLA CORBIN

Opinion Editor The town of Flint, Michigan has been in a federal state of emergency since Jan. 16 because of their lead-tainted water, according to USA Today.

Residents of Flint started to complain about the water in April 2014, when they noticed a weird taste and smell. The town had switched from Detroit water to the Flint River’s water in an effort to save money.

The Flint River was known to be nasty, even before the switch, according to CNN. Although the water was switched back to the Detroit line last fall, the damage had already been done.

Apparently, the requests from Virginia Tech researchers to the state’s Department of Environmental Quality to treat the water for corrosion were ignored. Corrosion is when, in this case, the pipes carrying the water start to destruct.

How could the state ignore the request? Were they just trying to solve a money crisis? In any case, the people were finally heard and things are finally being done to help the residents of Flint.

The residents are rightfully being provided with water filters and bottles from the National Guard.

The children of Flint are maybe the most upsetting part of the story.

Pediatrician Mona Hanna-Attisha revealed that records had shown toddlers’ lead levels had doubled since the water had been switched, according to CNN.

Not only can lead poisoning lead to hair, vision or memory loss, but it can also affect a child’s development.

Who knows how the future of Flint will unfold? It will definitely need to be closely monitored, as the children who age develop problems or adults start to show signs of poisoning.

Honestly, what does it take to get clean, healthy water in the United States? For a developed nation, this seems like a huge setback.

Film director Michael Moore has even filed a petition to President Barack Obama for the arrest of Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder, who he blames for the crisis. Moore was born in Michigan.

Photos courtesy of Twitter “Please consider this personal appeal from me and the 102,000 cit- People take to Twitter to share opinions about the water crisis occuring in Flint, Michigan. izens of the city of Flint who have been poisoned — not by a mistake, not by a natural disaster, but by a governor and his administration,” reads the petition.

Moore goes on to say that the governor is responsible for these premeditated actions that have killed at least 10 people in the city.

Other celebrities, such as rapper Meek Mill, have donated money to the effort to provide clean water.

An investigation will take place in order to uncover if the situation was handled lawfully. It is not looking good for the state officials.

Justice needs to be found for a city that will not fully recover anytime soon.

So what is more important to you: Cutting a budget or having clean drinking water? The answer is simThe Flint River was previously used as a source of drinking water for the town’s residents. ple.

B2

Déjà vu: JOSH TORZILLO

Asst. Opinion Editor The start of a new year in the entertainment industry is a time for awards shows galore. Artists, actors, producers, directors — all are celebrated in a slew of awards shows that draw millions of views on national television.

One of the most celebrated awards shows is the Academy Awards, or Oscars, in which the art of film is celebrated through awards such as Best Actor and Actress, Best Director and other prestigious honors.

The show is a big red carpet event that draws in the most famous celebrities in the world, but this year could see a lot fewer faces than previous years.

The Academy recently came under fire after it was revealed that no actors or directors of color were nominated this year — again. Accusations of racism and a huge lack of diversity in the Academy led many to cry out on social media.

“Granted, it could not hurt the Academy to diversify their lineup a bit.”

– Josh Torzillo

Speaks

Ship

January 26, 2016

And the Academy Award goes to...

shipspeaks@gmail.com

Oscars, then and now

Nominations 2015

Nominations 2016

Leading actor:

Leading actor:

Steve Carell, Foxcatcher Bradley Cooper, American Sniper Benedict Cumberbatch, The Imitation Game Michael Keaton, Birdman Eddie Redmayne, The Theory Prominent celebrities such as That film is really the only promiWill Smith, Spike Lee and Snoop nently African-American film that of Everything Dogg refuse to have anything to do with this year’s awards show.

In a time where diversity is being pushed in almost every aspect of life, many believe the Academy, which is essentially a round table of old, white men who pick their favorite movies and actors, should catch up with the times.

Why is this a problem?

Granted, it could not hurt the Academy to diversify their lineup a bit. However, there does not seem to be any racism involved in this year’s nominations.

Depending on how seriously one takes the Oscars or any awards show in general, it seems as if many people simply do not care about this ordeal. It is trivial to say that the Oscars are just an awards show and do not have a massive influence — because they do, but at the same time, it is still just an awards show. Although the nomination process might be rigged or not diverse enough, it really does not matter who wins.

However, this is America, and we do have an issue with racial tensions here. No evidence has come out as to whether any of the Academy members are closet racists, but that is a possibility. I am no movie aficionado, and I have not seen many films this year, but I know that “Straight Outta Compton” was probably the most publicized movie about African Americans this year.

Bryan Cranston, Trumbo Matt Damon, The Martian Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant Michael Fassbender, Steve Jobs Eddie Redmayne, The Danish Girl

got a decent Oscar nod.

“However, there does not seem to be any racism involved in this year’s nominations” – Josh Torzillo This simply could be because there just were not that many good films with African-Americans starring in them this year. One would have to watch a lot of movies to figure that out.

The most convincing evidence I have seen showing that there is not too much of a problem with this situation is that African-Americans make up about 12 to 13 percent of the U.S. population, and over the recent years, about 15 percent of the major Oscar awards have gone to a black actor, actress or director. That seems to be pretty representative.

However, there is undoubtedly an issue in Hollywood with whitewashing and a lack of diversity, but boycotting the Oscars will not do too much to change that. Millions will still watch the Oscars and since they have already announced plans to diversify the Academy as soon as possible. Hopefully this will not be an issue next Oscars.

Photos courtesy of Flickr users Taís Melillo, Dominick D

Will Smith and his wife Jada Pinkett Smith are choosing not to attend the Oscars, in protest.

Leading actress:

Leading actress:

Marion Cotillard, Two Days, One Night Felicity Jones, The Theory of Everything Julianne Moore, Still Alice Rosamund Pike, Gone Girl Reese Witherspoon, Wild

Cate Blanchett, Carol Brie Larson, Room Jennifer Lawrence, Joy Charlotte Rampling, 45 Years Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn

Supporting actor:

Supporting actor:

Robert Duvall, The Judge Ethan Hawke, Boyhood Edward Norton, Birdman Mark Ruffalo, Foxcatcher J.K. Simmons, Whiplash

Christian Bale, The Big Short Tom Hardy, The Revenant Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies Sylvester Stallone, Creed

Supporting actress:

Supporting actress:

Patricia Arquette, Boyhood Laura Dern, Wild Keira Knightley, The Imitation Game Emma Stone, Birdman Meryl Streep, Into the Woods

Jennifer Jason Leigh, The Hateful Eight Rooney Mara, Carol Rachel McAdams, Spotlight Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl Kate Winslet, Steve Jobs

Cinematography:

Cinematography:

Birdman The Grand Budapest Hotel Ida Mr. Turner Unbroken

Carol The Hateful Eight Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Sicario

Directing:

Directing:

Birdman Boyhood Foxcatcher The Grand Budapest Hotel The Imitation Game

The Big Short Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Room Spotlight

Nominations courtesy of variety.com and oscar.go.com

Ship Life

Slate

slate.shiplife@gmail.com

C1 January 26, 2016

Student Spotlight: Dominic Giovanniello James Schneider Guest Writer

Photo courtesy of ship.edu

Dominic Giovanniello aims to achieve success and greatness among the student body as acting president of Shippensburg University’s Student Senate. His plans are targeted at creating a pleasant environment for students during their time here.

Giovanniello is a political science major with a minor in philosophy and he plans on attending law school after he finishes his undergraduate degree.

There, he hopes to earn a degree in energy or environmental law so that he may go on to work within a non-profit organization that focuses on the protection of the environment.

“It only makes sense that we should put in serious work to keep our home safe and healthy,” Giovanniello said.

Before running for Student Senate president, Giovanniello held the position of senator for the class of 2017. The responsibilities of this position appealed

to him and he was able to get a grasp of the influence he would have on the university.

“I am just trying my best to represent the student body in the best possible manner while making this institution a home for us,” he said.

Giovanniello also plans on making meaningful changes within the university that would benefit students overall.

He has been an active participant in voicing student opinions when tuition increases are considered by the university. This semester has already proven to be a financial difficulty for everyone because of student loans not being distributed as scheduled. The state budget is believed to be a hinderance to the student body from getting what they need and Giovanniello is gearing toward these issues.

“Money is the biggest factor when it comes to education and I can’t stomach the idea of someone being held back because of a financial obstacle,” Giovanniello said.

Free meal options on campus are the first step in assisting with this issue. The Student Senate reached out to those who have been battling the lack of student refund checks and constructed a campus-wide spaghetti dinner for free. State budgets regarding students’ education have been put on hold, which has left many students without the funds they need. The Ceddia Union Bulding’s multipurpose room hosted the free spaghetti dinner on Nov. 23, welcoming students to come, eat and take with them as much as they pleased.

As Dominic Giovanniello continues to concern himself with the well-being of his peers, his position on senate becomes more enjoyable.

“I don’t think people understand my position on a bunch of decisions that I make,” he said. “I make choices to better the student body and I include myself in that every day. I’m just lucky enough to have a say in what goes on.”

Home@Ship brings students together Sean Fennell Staff Writer

Homesickness is a nearly universal phenomenon, but many times it is an ailment that can be trivialized and simply wrote off as something that will pass with time.

Though this is sometimes true, many who suffer from homesickness need help to relieve themselves of the day-to-day drudgery that is living away from those you miss and love. That is why this year Shippensburg University began a program called Home@Ship that aims to help those who are homesick break out of their depression and finally feel at home.

It started with Denise Yarwood, interim assistant dean for the school of academic programs and services, who found that during her experience interviewing students who are considering withdrawing from SU, one reason consistently came up­— homesickness.

“When I was [teaching] in psychology, homesickness actually was one of my research interests,” Yarwood said, when talking about what drew her to the issue. “We

found that some students just really weren’t connecting, and then they leave.”

So Yarwood decided to team up with licensed psychologist and chair of the department of counseling services Michele Olexa to create Home@Ship, a program they hoped would not only help retain these students, but help they find a place that they fit in.

“It really came out of a desire to have a group for people who are homesick, lonely or maybe not feeling connected here,” Olexa said.

The Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics defines homesickness as distress and functional impairment caused by an actual or anticipated separation from home and attachment objects such as parents. That means that every college student that lives at school has a chance of experiencing some level of homesickness, no matter who they are.

“Certainly every individual is dealing with an adjustment to the university, adjustment to new people, dealing with depression, anxiety and even more serious things,” Olexa said.

“One of the things that I found

is whether you have come across the ocean, like I have, or whether you have moved two hours away from home, homesickness feels the same,” Yarwood said. Yarwood is originally from England.

Yarwood said homesickness is a very common cause of poor academic performance. Others get in such a funk that that they no longer connect with other people and instead spend their time missing their old lifestyle. A main inspiration for creating Home@Ship was to help students realize they are not the only ones suffering from homesickness, according to Yarwood.

Olexa said one of her interests is how animal therapy can often have a positive effect on students going through these issues. Olexa brings in a therapy dog to Home@Ship sponsored events to help relieve some of the students’ anxiety.

“My interest is that almost everyone tells us that they come for the dogs,” Olexa said, speaking of Photo By Nicole James students’ feedback. “It’s interesting how people are less socially anxious Animal Therapy is a large part of the Home@Ship Program, among animals. with a dog at nearly every event. Kindly Canines came for a “We are hoping to build a culture around this, where more and more visit in Decemeber to help students cope with finals week. people come.”

C2 Life from a gnat’s eye We’ll do anything but turn up the heat Commentary NATALIE EASTWOOD Staff Writer

Ship Life

Slate

January 26, 2016

slate.shiplife@gmail.com

Being black in America, how far have we come?

The entire time I remain as still as possible because every shift and twitch pushes icy fingers under my sheets. During this step, while shrouded like a mummy, it’s also important not stay awake to avoid suffocation. A fun tip, however, is to apply flavored Chap Stick right before bed because when mixed with hot, humid breath, it creates a mango, peach, or pink lemonade rain forest.

So, once I have heated the cavity underneath my blankets, it’s time for some fresh air. I poke my hand through the wall of blankets by the top of my head so that a stream of Alaskan air wisps into my tropical, pink lemonade rainforest. This is OK, mainly because now it’s easier to breathe, but also because it is now so warm that the small amount of air is negligible.

At this point, it’s probably OK to change positions because I know from experience that the shrimp pose can get a little cramped.

Eventually I stretch out my legs into the unexplored territory of the cold tundra. Yes, it’s cold at first, but the heat that I have already created helps to warm the extra space quickly. The biggest danger of stretching out is when my pant legs and shirts ride up, leaving skin bare. But the solution is easy. Tuck Photo by Flickr user Yoke Mc pant legs into socks and shirts into pants. At The Million Man March is held every year in Washington, D.C. It began in some point I poke my head out of the blankets October 1995 with civil rights organizations and activists to support unity in and then fall into an incredibly warm sleep.

Step one, layer up. I slide on leggings, then sweat pants, pull a sweatshirt over my longsleeved shirt and pop a pair of socks on my feet. This is not preparation for a camping trip in the Himalayas or Alaska. It is, however, preparation for bed in my apartment.

With high ceilings and old windows that let in Jack Frost, my apartment is expensive to heat. So far this winter, my roommates and I have turned up the heat just enough to keep the pipes from freezing — but not necessarily enough to keep four college girls warm.

Each night, after I have layered up like a Himalayan hiker, I slide into bed and sandwich myself under three blankets and two comforters. I curl my body up like a shrimp, leaving a cavity between my knees and chin.

I then throw the blankets over my head, so that my body bulges like a bunch of pillows thrown in an empty bed to psyche out a high school parent.

This next step is essential. Just breathe and don’t move. By breathing into the space between my legs and face, I create my own heating system. It’s cost effective and enviBlissfully warm at last. ronmentally friendly. I do this until the air under my blankets becomes thick and humid.

the black community. It is currently attended by men, women and children.

YVETTE BETANCOURT

Asst. Ship Life Editor

Photo by Troy Okum

Students make every attempt to fight the cold without breaking the bank.

After this most recent snowstorm, different maneuvers may be necessary.

Since 2012, events involving the murder of unarmed African-Americans have resulted in the creation of “Black Lives Matter” (BLM), a national organization fighting for the end of mistreatment of African-American citizens in the United States.

“Race still shapes the lives that we lead as Americans, the opportunities that we receive, the surveillance that we experience, the challenges that we encounter,” Corrine Bertram, Shippensburg University associate professor of the psychology department said.

“The United States is a country still coming to terms with its history of white supremacy and this history continues to reverberate in our everyday lives, public policies, and institutions.”

BLM represents a movement similar to the Civil Rights Movement from 1954 to 1968 and politicians are starting to recognize this.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren gave a speech on Sept. 27 at the Edward Kennedy Institute in Boston, Massachusetts, in support of the movement.

“None of us can ignore what is happening in this country. Not when our black friends,

family, neighbors literally fear dying in the streets,” Warren said, according to the Washington Post. “This is the reality all of us must confront, as uncomfortable and ugly as that reality may be. It comes to us to once again affirm that black lives matter, that black citizens matter, that black families matter.”

BLM activists intend to make their voices heard by presidential candidates, even if they have to make a lot of noise to do so.

In August, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton privately met with BLM activists to discuss their concerns. According to CNN, the group was not allowed into Clinton’s forum on substance abuse because the room reached full capacity. Race and police reform are now a significant part of Clinton’s campaign in support of BLM. Protestors have taken over events of presidential candidates Bernie Sanders and Martin O’Malley.

After another planned protest in August Daunasia Yancey, founder of BLM in Boston told CNN there would be more interruptions of events from activists in the future.

Will the attention of politicians help the movement bring the change for African-Americans they deserve? Only time will tell.

Slate

A&E

D1

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January 26, 2016

Star Wars: Back to basics ‘The Force Awakens’ returns to themes and emotions that made ‘Star Wars’ so special

Legends of film and music remembered TYLER M. LAW A&E Editor

Photo courtesy of Wiki user TerraS12

JUSTIN LEE

Asst. A&E Editor “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” will go down in history as one of the most anticipated and popular movies in cinematic history. Not only has it broken numerous records from ticket pre-sales, weekend box offices records, domestic and international gross records, but “The Force Awakens” is a great movie.

It has been 32 years since the world has been treated to a “Star Wars” movie that is coherent and made to feel like a legitimate film.

Even though George Lucas’ attempt to recapture fire with the prequels made everyone sick to their stomachs, it was time for Disney’s newly-acquired baby to come out screaming with passion and excitement without Lucas.

What this is is “Star Wars: The Apology.” It is a way of telling people, “Don’t worry. Star Wars is in good hands.” Great hands, actually. If it was bad, people would have been calling it “Star Wars: The Farce Awakens.”

Director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Super 8”), producer Kathleen Kennedy (“Indiana Jones”), and screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan (“The Empire Strikes Back,” “Return of the Jedi”) absolutely knew from day one of pre-production that there could be no mistakes.

Despite the fact that “Star Wars” pumps in my veins and that I am a

“fanboy,” I will try my best to give this movie an honest review and mostly avoid any spoilers. If at all I come to a story point, I will mention that it will be a spoiler, and you as the reader may want to skip over it.

“The Force Awakens” is an energizing and breathtaking spectacle, but it is not a perfect movie. One major criticism it has received over the last month is that the movie is too similar to previous installments.

First, it is important to understand that Lucas always said that “Star Wars” is basically poetry in space: “...again, it’s like poetry, it’s so that they rhyme. Every stanza kinda rhymes with that last one […],” he said during the making of “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace.”

If one were to break down moment-by-moment of the “Star Wars” prequels and do a screen comparison to the original trilogy (IV, V and VI), characters and events cater to the same beats, plot points and dialogue.

Second, the most glaring examples of how “The Force Awakens” may be “derivative” of other Star Wars movies is a desert planet, a droid called BB-8 carrying secret information for the good guys, Han Solo basically playing the role of the wise, old man that Obi-Wan Kenobi played in “A New Hope,” and a bigger Death Star named “Starkiller Base,” except that this time it is larger and can destroy five planets at once instead of just one planet.

I think people are dwelling on

these issues and are overshadowing the great elements. Starkiller Base may be Death Star 3.0, but it serves as a backdrop to the characters and the individual dramatic moments they are having.

New to the “Star Wars” universe and films in general is humanizing Stormtroopers. We as Star Wars fans finally get to understand them in their struggle in a galaxy far, far away. John Boyega adds a new dimension of fun, energy and legitimate acting.

Second, British actor Daisy Ridley, who plays the lead heroine Rey, a scavenger from the desert planet Jakku who spends her days rummaging through the desert and trading in scraps and spare ship parts for food. My biggest concern was that her character would run too close to the likeness of Luke Skywalker and even though at some parts she is following the typical hero’s journey, Rey is instantly likable and it is captivating to watch her try to survive.

Ridley crushes it in this role.

Overnight she became a megastar.

It is crucial to note that Abrams said to her on day one of shooting that her acting was “wooden.” Ridley admitted this in interviews close to the premiere of “The Force Awakens.”

Nowhere in this movie is she ever boring.

SEE ‘STAR WARS’ ON D3

Alan Rickman and David Bowie, two men born in London, England, less than a year apart, who transcended the art world in both film and music died earlier this month.

Rickman fell victim to pancreatic cancer on Jan. 14 and Bowie to cancer of the liver on Jan. 10. Both were 69 years old and left behind a legacy of work that is unlikely to be duplicated anytime soon.

Bowie, known for his work as a musician and cult film actor, was the mastermind behind songs and albums that sold an approximated 140 million across the world and that were certified platinum, gold or silver multiple times. Bowie’s final triumph in music was his latest album, “Blackstar,” which was released only two days before his death on his birthday, Jan. 8.

The music Bowie created is second only in his legacy to the wild personalities he created to accompany his albums, visual and live performances. Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane were just two of Bowie’s extravagant alter egos that would be unleashed during live performances and even flood into his personal life.

Bowie’s personal life became something akin to a tabloid explosion for almost five decades. Everything from his sexual orientation to his way of dressing became fodder for the entertainment media’s cannons.

Bowie will always be remembered for his music and his larger-thanlife personality and will remain one of the largest influences on popular music for years to come.

Rickman is known to most Americans as the man behind Severus Snape, the ambiguous potions master from the Harry Potter series.

Rickman, despite being best known for his work in the Harry Potter franchise, is one of the most respected actors of both stage and screen of his generation.

After studying acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England, Rickman spent years working in theater and became a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Rickman will always be known as the tall, mysterious man with one of the deepest voices any actor has ever had. Those who knew him, however, see Rickman as a sweet man and an incredible role model.

In a tribute to Rickman, Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe posted a message on social media that said “Alan Rickman is undoubtedly one of the greatest actors I will ever work with. He is also, one of the loyalist and most supportive people I’ve ever met in the film industry.”

Bowie and Rickman will both be sorely missed by millions of fans around the world and the shrines created by fans in London for both men will likely continue to grow in their memories.

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A&E Upcoming Luhrs Shows Slate

January 26, 2016

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Three Dog Night and River City Brass at Luhrs TYLER M. LAW A&E Editor

The H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center will play host to classic rock and brass music in the coming week, showcasing Three Dog Night and River City Brass (RCB) “Brasstacular.”

Three Dog Night is now in its fourth decade of bringing classic hits to cities around the globe.

The group was one of the most successful acts of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, bringing songs like “Joy to the World,” “Black and White” and “Shambala” to excited audi-

ences representing multiple generations.

Three Dog Night boasts 12 straight gold albums, 40 hit songs and three No. 1 singles over its career. Three Dog Night will perform songs spanning its entire career, including classic hits and new tunes, during the group’s stop at Luhrs, one of dozens of shows the band is playing this year, making them one of the most aggressive touring groups currently active.

In 1981, RCB became the first professional concert band to be established in the U.S. in over 25 years and the 28-piece ensemble of talented musicians tours through-

out the U.S. with more than 40 shows each year.

The ensemble can be seen everywhere from California to New York, performing at art festivals, symphony series and concert series.

A review from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch boasts, “It’s not a reach to say that this may be the most fun with music you’re going to have all year.”

RCB is coming to Luhrs on Feb. 4 and tickets are currently on sale online or at the Luhrs Center box office.

Three Dog Night performs on Jan. 30 with tickets still available.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Three Dog Night, Jan. 30 River City Brass, Feb. 4 Joe Nichols, Feb. 13 Drew Thomas Magic, Feb. 19 Jack Hanna, Feb. 26 Yamato Drummers of Japan, Mar. 15 Jay and the Americans, Mar. 18 Skippyjon Jones “Snow What,” Mar. 19 Million Dollar Quartet, Apr. 2 The Peking Acrobats, Apr. 7 Capitol Steps, Apr. 14 Gatlin Borthers, Apr. 21 Sinatra Forever, May 14 Eagles Tribute Show, June 4

Photo courtesy of Luhrs

Members of the River City Brass band in preperations for this year’s extravagant U.S. tour.

Billboard Top 20 Artist

Song

1. Justin Bieber 2. Adele 3. Justin Bieber 4. twenty one pilots 5. Selena Gomez 6. Alessia Cara 7. Drake 8. Shawn Mendes 9. Meghan Trainor ft. John Legend 10. Justin Bieber 11. The Chainsmokers ft. ROZES 12. Drake & Future 13. Bryson Tiller 14. The Weeknd 15. The Weeknd 16. Post Malone 17. Travi$ Scott 18. Fetty Wap ft. Remy Boyz 19. G-Eazy x Bebe Rexha 20. Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello

Sorry Hello Love Yourself Stressed Out Same Old Love Here Hotline Bling Stitches Like I’m Gonna Lose You What Do You Mean?

Roses Jumpman Don’t The Hills In The Night White Iverson Antidote 679 Me, Myself & I I Know What You Did Last Summer

Carmike 7 Showtimes Showtimes for Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 26 and 27, at Carmike Cinema 7 in Chambersburg

Show 1. Dirty Grandpa 2. Norm of the North

Time 7:10 p.m., 9:45 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

3. Ride Along 2

7:05 p.m., 9:35 p.m.

4. Star Wars: The Force Awakens 2D

6:45 p.m., 9:45 p.m.

5. The 5th Wave

7:05 p.m., 9:50 p.m.

6. The Boy

7:40 p.m., 9:55 p.m.

7. The Forest

9:40 p.m.

8. The Revenant

8:00 p.m.

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January 26, 2016

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FROM ‘STAR WARS’ ON D1 Every scene she is in, every shot, every moment, she is giving it her all and she does it better than anyone else. Pinned up against the likeness of Harrison Ford, who returns as the beloved Han Solo, Ridley gives a better performance than he does.

Speaking of Han Solo, Harrison Ford could have easily treated this like any other movie, but watching him during interviews and special features, he knows what Star Wars means to the world. This is his best acting in 30 years. Also returning is Carrie Fisher as Leia, who is no longer a princess, but is now a general for the Resistance, an underground military organization fighting for the New Republic.

The moment Ford and Fischer meet up on screen, and every time they are together after that, powerful emotions ooze out of the screen.

It strikes harder for “Episode VII” than it would for any other random Star Wars film, not just because it is Leia and Han together again, but because of what came before “The Force Awakens.” The Prequels lacked emotion, they lacked basic human feelings and it is beyond rewarding to witness that again. It is amazing how a “Star Wars” movie actually feels like a movie.

“The Force Awakens” is such a rich story that rekindles the mag-

Photo courtesy of Wiki user TriipleThreat

Left to right: Producer Kathleen Kennedy, director J.J. Abrams, and writer Lawrence Kasdan discuss the making of “The Force Awakens” at San Diego Comic-Con International in 2015. ic and novelty of the original “Star Wars” films.

Next, Kylo Ren, the new villain to the “Star Wars” universe, played brilliantly by Adam Driver, could have been disastrous. It would have been really easy to discount him as a “Star Wars” villain, simply because no one could live up to the love and importance of Darth Vader.

Wisely, screenwriters Kasdan and Abrams wrote that into Ren’s character. All Kylo Ren wants to be is the next Darth Vader and it bothers him that he is not living up to that. It is a dimensional aspect of

characterization that we have not gotten in a “Star Wars” movie before. He is unsure of himself, he gets angry, and he wants total control in everything he does. He wears that weird looking mask to intimidate others, but, unlike Darth Vader who had to wear a mask to stay alive, Ren does not have to.

A slight spoiler is that Ren reveals his face to Rey when she is captured. But Ren is not scarred and he does not have a damaged face. Rather, he is a pretty good-looking guy. He speaks calmly, to the point that it is chilling. It is

a Shakespearean approach that the movies have never explored and it is rewarding to get that dimension in a modern-day blockbuster, let alone in “Star Wars.”

Abrams and crew, during the making of “The Force Awakens,” did numerous specials and featurettes about how this movie will be made like a normal movie: Real sets, practical explosions, real locations, natural lighting, props, etc.

Of course there is a lot of CGI in this movie, but unlike the Prequels, the story is not used to extensively show special effects. Rather, the

real sets and locations bring in an element of “world-building.” Locations feel lived in, actors sweat on screen, there is room for them to run and act on an un-restricting set and, most importantly, they interact with the world around them.

Ewan McGregor, who played ObiWan in the Prequels, once called the job “a nightmare,” simply because of how difficult it was to give a performance and not react to anything.

This time around, “The Force Awakens” is given the proper treatment. The feeling of grit that made the Original Trilogy so visceral and fun is back in this new installment.

It is glorious.

I remember going home after seeing this new Star Wars flick for the first time, actually thinking about running around in the desert with Rey and all the other great characters and that is credit to how real this movie looks.

Sure, we can nitpick about how “The Force Awakens” retreads a lot of story points from “A New Hope” and “The Empire Strikes Back,” but generally speaking this movie connected with fans on an emotional level, and that is the important thing.

This is not a perfect movie, but it is pretty close. “The Force Awakens” wedges itself nicely in with the likes of the Original Trilogy, and is worthy of the being called “Episode VII.”

Slate The

General interest meeting Tuesday, Feb. 2 Orndorff Theatre 9:30 p.m.

Email slate.ship@gmail.com with questions

Slate The

Sports

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania William Whisler, Sports Editor / Cat Amoriello Asst. Sports Editor

Bob Murray, Asst. Sports Editor

January 26, 2016

@ShipUSlate TheSlate @ShipUSlate

Manning looks to lead Broncos, E2

Women’s basketball continues streak, E3

Men’s basketball gains momentum, E4

SU wrestling claims third PSAC win of season, E3 Swimming prepares to travel to Navy, E4

Sports

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January 26, 2016

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Super Bowl 50 stage is set BLAIR GARRETT Staff Writer With Sunday’s playoff games in the books, the stage for Super Bowl 50 is set. The Super Bowl will feature the AFC Champion Denver Broncos, and the NFC Champion Carolina Panthers.

The Denver Broncos amassed a 12-4 record throughout the duration of the season, which ended with them clinching the No. 1 seed in the AFC. Peyton Manning, the Broncos’ starting quarterback, struggled under a new coaching scheme, posting his worst statistical season since his rookie year. A nagging injury sustained during training camp also contributed to Manning’s poor numbers.

Denver’s defense, led by defensive coordinator Wade Phillips and head coach Gary Kubiak, posted leaguebest numbers in six major defensive categories, including yards against per game, yards against per play, yards against per rush, passing yards against, sacks and forced fumbles. They were also ranked in the Top five in four more categories.

Denver’s stellar defense pushed them through several key injuries sustained through the season. Manning suffered a partial tear of the plantar fasciitis in his left foot in Week 11, forcing backup quarterback Brock Osweiler to take over the starting role. Osweiler was benched in the season finale against the San Diego Chargers, allowing Manning to reclaim his starting position.

The Broncos faced the Pittsburgh Steelers in the divisional round of the NFL Playoffs. The Steelers limped into the second round, coming off of a brutal rivalry game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Steelers triumphed over the Bengals due to some controversial hits and a disciplinary meltdown, which saw the game slip through Cincinnati’s grasp. The Steelers were missing Pro Bowl receiver Antonio Brown and their top two running backs, LeVeon Bell and DeAngelo Williams. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger sustained a separated shoulder in round one, which hindered his performance against Denver.

Denver and Pittsburgh both started slow, scoring just 19 points combined in the first half. Denver focused heavily on kicker Brandon

upcoming games: Women’s Basketball @ Bloomsburg Jan. 27

Photo courtesy of Flickr user Jim Bahn

Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California will play host to Super Bowl 50 on Feb. 7 on CBS. McManus, who brought the Broncos within a point of Pittsburgh with a 51-yard field goal to close out the half, his third of the game.

The chess match opened up for Denver in the fourth quarter, driving 65 yards down the field to score their first touchdown of the game to take the lead, 20-13. McManus added his fifth field goal of the game, extending the lead to 23-13.

The Steelers elected to kick a field goal with 19 seconds left, with the intention of kicking an onside kick, but were unsuccessful in recovering it. The Broncos won the game and would host New England in the AFC Championship Game the next week.

The historic matchup of the New England Patriots’ Tom Brady vs.

Peyton Manning was about to add another page in the unforgettable saga. Brady and Manning have now played one another 17 times. These two future Hall of Fame quarterbacks have defined this generation of the NFL by turning this rivalry into a dramatic shootout in nearly every game.

Brady holds the edge in the rivalry with 11 wins out of the 17 total matchups. Sunday, however, Manning’s Broncos defended a 2012 lead as Brady and the Patriots stormed down the field like Brady has so famously done throughout his career.

The two-minute drill is the ultimate pressure situation for a quarterback. It is also something Brady has made a living off of over his 16year career.

The Broncos’ defensive line overpowered New England’s O-line,

hitting Brady play after play. The Patriots’ quarterback did not have the time or space to work his magic, but that would not stop them from putting up a fight.

Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski hooked up to survive multiple fourth-down conversions, including a 40-yard reception and a four-yard touchdown pass. The Patriots cut the Denver lead to just two points, but the 2-point conversion was intercepted by Bradley Roby. New England’s ensuing onside kick was unsuccessful and it punched the 39-year-old Manning’s ticket to Super Bowl 50.

For Carolina, they are led by budding superstar Cam Newton who terrorized the league this season, going undefeated until Week 16.

Carolina finished the season 15-1 and now charge into the Super Bowl with a franchise-best 17 wins and one loss. Newton is the favorite to win the NFL MVP award this season, as he amassed 41 touchdowns and more than 4,000 passing and rushing yards.

The Panthers, like the Broncos, also clinched the No. 1 seed in their respective conference, which granted them home-field advantage through the divisional and NFC Championship rounds. The Panthers rode a star-studded offense and a stout defense to a first-round bye this postseason. Carolina led the league this season with a 20plus turnover differential, meaning they were responsible with the ball and tenacious without it.

The Panthers’ first game was against the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle, the Super Bowl 48 champi-

ons and Super Bowl 49 runner-ups, struggled to find their groove this season, but managed to defeat the Minnesota Vikings in a defensive battle, 10-9. The Panthers’ offense exploded in the first half, scoring 31 unanswered points. The Panthers took their foot off the gas, though and the Seahawks clawed their way back to score 24 points, but they ultimately could not dig themselves out of the tremendous first half deficit.

Any team that has the ability to score more than 30 points is a threat to do damage in the playoffs.

Carolina did that eight times during the regular season. The Panthers absolutely mopped the floor with the Arizona Cardinals, putting up 49 points en route to a 49-15 victory. The Carolina defense intercepted Carson Palmer four times and forced three fumbles, all of which Carolina recovered.

One of those interceptions was returned for a touchdown by star Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, who has returned an interception for a touchdown in each of Carolina’s two postseason games this year. Palmer and his Arizona Cardinals just could not solve the Panthers’ top-ofthe-line defense.

On the shoulders of Cam Newton, the Carolina Panthers will ride their wave of momentum into the Super Bowl to face the AFC champion Denver Broncos.

Kickoff for Super Bowl 50 will be at 6:30 p.m., Feb. 7, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Teaser photo credits on A1, E1: Peyton Manning photo by Flickr user Craig Hawkins; Swimming Lanes photo by Flickr user Brian Cantoni

Men’s Basketball @ Bloomsburg Jan. 27 Wrestling @ Mercyhurst Jan. 29 Indoor Track & Field @ Bison Open Jan. 29-30 Indoor Track & Field @ National Invitational Jan. 29-30 Wrestling @ Gannon Jan. 30 Swimming @ Navy Invitational Jan. 30

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January 26, 2016

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Wrestling wins third PSAC meet this year Bob Murray

Asst. Sports Editor On Tuesday, Jan. 19, the Shippensburg University Red Raiders hosted a dual meet at its own Heiges Field House to take on PSAC opponent, East Stroudsburg University, which had been a highly anticipated match. With Shippensburg atop the totem pole for league victories, they wish to hold onto their commanding lead over the opposing PSAC programs.

In the NCAA DII Super Region I wrestling action on Tuesday night, the Raiders were able to hand East Stroudsburg their third PSAC loss of the season, and obtaining a third PSAC victory for themselves.

On top of an impressive overall 8-5 record (3-0), the team looks forward to four more PSAC meets, in hopes of taking control of the Super Region I. Starting the evening off at 125-pounds helped the Raiders begin with a 6-0 decision for freshman Dustin Steffenino, and would be one of the six victories for the Raiders during the meet. After a string of victories beginning with the 149-pound weight class, the team was determined to come out on top as the six of 10 wins piled up into a 20-15 win for Shippensburg.

A commanding position in the league now lingers above the team’s

Photo courtesy of Ryan Trexler, SU Sports Information

Freshman 157-pound Adam Martz collecting his escape point with a 2-1 victory over No. 5 ranked wrestler, Joey Kratochvil. head as post season comes into sight. Sophomore Evan Ramos looks to have one of the furthest post season pushes with an overall record of 15-1 with 10 consecutive wins thus far. Ramos spent the evening obtaining a major decision (142) against opponent Brandon Steele at the 197-weight class. These key extra points proved to be a necessity as sophomore Cody Blankenship

was the only other Raider to achieve bonus points for their team, empowering the close scoring meet.

Every point counts in this sport and the Shippensburg Red Raiders have done it again with an impressive victory over a high-powered opponent.

Multiple close victories in this meet could have potentially led to any conclusion, but Shippensburg’s

talented squad of impressive young men held their adversaries off once more to gain the upper hand and come out on top.

This East Stroudsburg team was one to be taken seriously as they have two wrestlers, Tyler Richardson and Tyson Searer, whom are both ranked in the NCAA DII Super Region I rankings.

Two of the Raiders made that list

as well, with Dustin Steffenino and Evan Ramos being ranked by the same standards in the Super Region I rankings, making this meet an interesting one.

As the Raiders tally another victory, they look ahead to the postponed meet against Division I foe, Franklin & Marshall college that was originally scheduled for Jan. 24.

SU women’s basketball sits alone atop PSAC William Whisler Sports Editor

Even in the frigid temperature, the Shippensburg University’s women’s basketball team has found a way to be red-hot. The Raiders have reeled off an impressive winning streak — winning 10 straight on their way to a 15-2 record to start the season.

The hot start has the Raiders leading the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference and puts them in great position heading into the final month of the regular season. SU is 11-2 in the PSAC, defeating the second place team in the East division, West Chester University, 85-72 on Dec. 1. The Raiders currently hold a one-game lead over the Golden Rams in the East division.

Junior Morgan Griffith has led the Raiders all season, averaging a double-double, with 17.1 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. Grif-

fith has been a force for the team, leading them both in points and rebounds. Griffith has also been able to score efficiently on all areas of the court, shooting 42.9 percent from 3-point range and 48.6 percent from inside the arc.

Griffith has stepped up in the absence of last year’s leading scorer.

Stephanie Knauer went down with a leg injury just five games into the season.

The team has also received strong production from junior Logan Snyder, who has averaged 13.4 points per game to go along with 3.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

Junior guard Lauren Gold has also stuffed the stat sheet this season, averaging 9.6 points, 4.1 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game. Gold has also been very efficient from the free throw line, converting on just over 90 percent of her free throw attempts.

The team’s success has revolved

around strong shooting, converting points at the free throw line, as well as playing stingy defense. The Raiders rank first in the PSAC in points per game, averaging 75.6 points and they also rank second in defense, giving up 61.9 points per game.

“The success the team has been experiencing has been due to their focus, teamwork and ability to stay focused on the next game. Although it’s nice to be in first place, there is plenty of season remaining and we only look as far as the next opponent and keep a positive approach to everything we do,” SU basketball coach Kristy Trn said.

The SU women’s basketball team has nine games left, all PSAC matchups, with five of those games coming at home at Heiges Field House. The Raiders look to continue their success at school rival Bloomsburg University on Jan. 27.

Weather played a part in changing the athletic schedule for the

Photo by William Whisler

SU women’s basketball has caught fire recently winning 10 straight games, and winning 15 of 17 games overall this year.

Raiders, with Jan. 21’s matchup the weekend. The game against with East Stroudsburg University East Stroudsburg University will being postponed due to the massive now be played on Monday, Feb. 1. snowstorm that hit the area over

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January 26, 2016

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SU men’s basketball looking to continue winning ways

Photo by William Whisler

SU basketball has put together an impressive winning streak, winning seven consecutive games. The team sits in fourth place in the PSAC East division.

WILLIAM WHISLER Sports Editor

The SU men’s basketball could not seem to have the ball bounce their way early on in the season.

Things have quickly turned around for the Raider squad, which has put together a solid seven-game winning streak.

The men’s basketball team started out their season 4-4, with their seventh and eighth games of the season against West Chester University and Indiana University of Pennsylvania ending in double-digit losses.

Even with the slow start, the Raiders displayed a lot of heart.

The team quickly responded from the big losses with a big victory in a 94-93 home-thriller against Se-

ton Hill University. The Raiders got a strong performance out of guard Abe Massaley, who led the team with 24 points against Seton Hill, while sophomore Dustin Sleva scored 14 points and grabbed 14 rebounds in the win.

This was only the beginning of a breakout season for the sophomore.

Sleva has been a force for the Raiders this season, picking up 11 double-doubles in just 17 games. Sleva is tied for second in the nation double-doubles and also ranks third in the nation with an average of 11.6 rebounds per game. Sleva also averages 13.7 points per contest on the season.

The Raiders are currently sitting fourth in the East division of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, with a 12-5 record and a 9-4

record in conference play.

The Raiders willed their way back into the division race with the current seven-game winning streak, but will have a tough stretch moving forward and playing all three teams sitting ahead of them in the East division in their next five games.

The team has been very successful as of late, scoring at least 70 points per game during the winning streak. The team also eclipsed 75 points in all seven of those contests.

The team has been scoring a lot of points and currently sits in sixth place in points per game in the PSAC. The Raiders also have shot well from deep this season, averaging 7.1 3-point field goals per game.

The streak featured victories over Mansfield University, Kutztown University, Clarion University,

The University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown, Millersville University, Lock Haven University and Cheyney University.

Massaley, who is averaging 15.2 points per game, has paced the Raiders offensively this season.

That 15.2 points per game is good enough for 10th in the PSAC this season.

During the streak, freshman guard Antonio Kellem has played well, averaging 10.9 points per game on the season, including a season-high 20 points against Lock Haven. Senior forward Tony Ellis has also been a key contributor during the streak, piling up double-digit points in three of the seven games, including a season-high 20 points against Lock Haven.

The team has played well all year

and hopes to continue its winning ways in their upcoming games. The next five games will be critical to the team’s chances of moving on into the postseason. The Raiders will face PSAC powerhouse West Chester, who currently leads the conference, on Jan. 30 in West Chester. The Raiders will also have tough matchups with a Feb. 1 matchup against the second place team in the PSAC East, East Stroudsburg University, at home in Heiges Field House.

The SU men’s and women’s teams have combined for a 27-7 record— the best combined start in school history. Both teams have been extremely effective this season and hope to keep momentum heading into the final month of the regular season.

Navy Invitational last stop before SU swimming heads to PSAC meet CAT AMORIELLO Asst. Sports Editor Although the winter sports teams are slowly nearing the end of their regular seasons, the Shippensburg University men’s and women’s swim teams are expected to make waves at the upcoming Navy Invitational swim meet on Jan. 30.

Head coach Tim Verge sees the Navy Invitational as the last tuneup before SU heads to the four-day PSAC meet in York beginning on Feb. 18.

Freshman Shane Kaliszewski is hopeful that SU’s hard work will pay off at the conference meet.

“We just completed a really great two and a half weeks of winter training, but we’ve got a lot of hard work left to do in the next few weeks before we start to rest for PSAC’s. We’re all hoping to get some really good swims at PSAC’s and with how hard we’ve been working, it’s well within our reach to do just that,” Kaliszewski said.

Both Verge and Kaliszewski mentioned the Bomber Invitational and the George Mason Patriot Invitational as having been crucial

to the teams’ success, given that many swimmers performed exceptionally at those two invites.

Although swimming is categorized as a team sport, there is a lot of individual pressure placed on each team member. Verge reiterated this point when he said, “We want to make sure that we’re going in focusing on ourselves racing our races the best we can…For us to get where we want to go as a team, everybody has to be successful individually.”

Leading the men’s team into the PSAC meet are seniors Stefan Szilagyi and Jake Dunnigan, who

have both earned qualifying times for multiple events. The women’s team will be led by seniors Rikki Sargent and Carolyn Meier.

Well-qualified for the PSAC meet, these two individuals are school record holders as well.

Although the conference meet is less than a month away, SU swimming is far from a quiet end.

Both the coach and the swimmers’ expectations are high for the conference meet, with the firm belief that both the women’s and men’s teams’ performances will be better than ever.

Kaliszewski spoke for his fellow

teammates when he said, “We’re all really excited about taking the success we’ve had and continuing to build on it at the conference meet.” Verge echoed Kaliszewski’s excitement and anticipation: “I think we did some super things so far this year, so it will be exciting to see if we can build off of that and finish up on a great note.”

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