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IUP STUDENTS SLEEP OUT TO RAISE AWARENESS OF HOMELESS VETERANS

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(Natalie Stanton/The Penn) The sleepout event happened from Saturday into Sunday. Nolan Peters (junior, communications media) (right) is seen donating money to the cause.

‘Night, night, sleep tight’

IUP students sleep out to raise awareness of homeless veterans MARIAH MAUSER Contributing Writer lmvbc@iup.edu @ThePennIUP With the wind whirling and freezing temperatures, it is hard to even step foot outside to get groceries or to go to class. But for many, staying outside is not a choice.

Many veterans experience homelessness. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, there were 37,085 veterans who were homeless in 2019. This is a high number for those who have sacrificed so much to protect the country.

The IUP military service fraternity, Rho Tau Chi (PTX), and members of IUP’s Phi Delta Theta, in collaboration with the Indiana County’s Veteran Parsonage, slept outside Saturday night into Sunday morning to show support of homeless veterans.

“This is my third sleep-out,” CJ Holland (junior, history) said. “I am both a brother of PTX and Phi Delta Theta. I come from a very heavily military family. We’ve seen

News

(Natalie Stanton/The Penn) Kristen Squires (far left), DJ Strotman (left), Adam Clawson (middle), George Yurko (right) and Brad Kirkwood (seated) are members of the Board of Veterans Parsonage Shelter. the struggle. We’ve had it great; we’ve had it not so great.

“So, giving back is something that I really like doing, especially in the military community.”

They did this not only to show solidarity with the homeless veterans but to also collect donations and to raise money. The goal is to collect food, cleaning supplies, toiletries and to raise

$4,000. All the proceeds go to the Veteran’s Parsonage so that they can directly help veterans in the Indiana area.

“The whole point of this sleepout event is to raise money for the homeless veteran’s shelter,” said Kristin Squires, the founder of Indiana PA Veterans and Community United. “We don’t receive any federal funding. So,

February 17, 2021

all our funding for programming costs, maintenance, any kind of facility cost is completely fundraised by the community.”

Usually, the event is held during the wintertime during Presidents’ Day weekend. Due to complicating factors of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, it was held on Valentine’s day weekend to demonstrate what homeless veterans go through while others may be out celebrating and enjoying a secure environment and home.

“It adds to the visual effect that it is intentionally uncomfortable,” Squires said. “Both visually for the people to see because it’s raw and real.

“Homeless people aren’t just homeless in July or June… So, it’s a raw visual for the people walking by, but it’s also kind of meant to be uncomfortable for us doing it because it helps us kind of garner that level of respect for those who are going through it. It kind of helps remind us why we’re doing this.”

Not only are the temperatures

freezing, but the volunteers are not allowed to eat or drink anything that isn’t donated to them. This is to demonstrate how heavily homeless veterans rely on the donations and the kindness of others for basic needs.

“It’s all about the what-ifs,” Bri Priestas (senior, exercise science) said. “What if that was me? This might me temporary pain for us now, but it’s permanent for someone else.

“It might be cold one night, and we’re going to complain, but at the end of the day, there’s someone out there every night doing this. So, it kind of gives us the attitude of we can do this one night to help raise money and awareness for the people that are like this every night.”

“I’m hoping that this brings awareness for the people walking in,” Kloey Peterson (freshman, nursing) said. “That they’ll be able to see that this is really what some veterans, the people that defended our country, go through. And that they’ll say, ‘Oh, we can help them.’”

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February 17, 2021

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Student Government remains voice of IUP for many students GABRIELLA BYRNE Contributing Writer bmwx@iup.edu @ThePennIUP The Student Government Association (SGA) serves as a voice for IUP students as well as a chance for students to get involved in representing the interests of the university.

Since its formation in the 1930s, the organization has expanded in its commitment to ensure university students are heard.

The SGA is connected to the IUP administration and thus serves on the University Senate that recommends university policies to President Michael Driscoll.

Members of the organization are responsible for numerous activities and regularly selected to serve on university committees to ensure fair representation of the student body. These include serving on Student Conduct boards, Student Organization Review boards and grade appeal committees. Additionally, they help manage the IUP Student Activity Fee with the IUP Student Cooperative Association.

For a new organization on campus to gain university recognition, SGA’s Board of Recognition oversees the majority of the process.

Chief Justice August Bolinger (senior, economics and supply chain management) explained what the Board looks for when recognizing a student organization.

“Generally speaking, what the Board looks for in an organization is dedication, membership and the ability to benefit students as well as the IUP community,” Bolinger said. “We find these qualities by assessing the foundational documents of a student organization (a constitution), ensuring that new organizations are inclusive and checking for uniqueness.”

While the SGA Board of Recognition cannot shut down an organization if rules are not followed, they do perform yearly reviews that involve ensuring that the requirement for a student organization is met.

Bolinger encourages those that want to form a new student organization to reach out to him at his email (A.O.Bolinger@iup.edu) or Kevin Foster (kfoster@iup.edu) for help with understanding these requirements, as the SGA is ready to help them through the process.

(Facebook) The tutoring for the IUP will take place on Zoom this semester.

Tutoring available on Zoom for struggling students BENJAMIN BRUMBAUGH

Staff Writer msqy@iup.edu @ThePennIUP

(Facebook) President Alex Fefolt (left) and Chief Justice August Bolinger (right).

During SGA meetings, reports are issued by officers and members, and updates are heard by the Vice President for Student Affairs.

There is an Open Student Forum that allows for IUP students to be heard by the organization and address any potential issues that the SGA can work to resolve.

President Alexander Fefolt (senior, history/pre-law and political science) explained the steps taken when an issue is presented to the SGA. “Depending on the certain situation, we address a student issue by advocating for a change in university policy, finding more information or bringing the concern to the attention of someone who can take action to solve it,” Fefolt said.

Currently, SGA is looking for positions to fill senator vacancies

in the organization. Due to the pandemic, the previous requirement that stated signatures from 50 students supporting an individual’s candidacy is waived. Now all that is required is attendance of two general assembly meetings, and the application on the SGA’s website must be filled out.

An internal election determines the final decision on whether a new member is welcomed. All are encouraged to try out to get involved in representing the IUP’s student body.

An upcoming event called “S’mores Galore” is a collaboration between SGA and the Center for Multicultural Student Leadership and Engagement (MCSLE).

Hot chocolate and s’mores will be served at the Folger Student Center 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday.

Meetings are open to the public and consistently held 7:30 p.m.

Tuesdays in the Elkin Great Room or online through Zoom. The passcode for the meeting will be given after emailing sga-officers@iup.edu.

Attendance for these meetings has been fairly consistent even since the pandemic’s start, and a new change allows members to participate in an online format due to some staying away from Indiana or in-person meetings.

“More work must be done to ensure students are well represented during this time,” Fefolt said.

During the last two semesters, life at IUP has looked very different due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the Academic Success Center at IUP (ASC@IUP), this meant changing the way that peer tutoring and supplemental instruction were offered to students.

The ASC@IUP offers students a variety of tutoring options through the Tutoring Center. Peer Tutoring is offered to students who need one-on-one help. Supplemental Instruction (SI) is designed for classes with a high rate of failure or withdrawal. SI involves a single instructor who helps many students at once study for tests and brushup on difficult material learned in class.

“For the spring 2021 semester, we have moved to a completely online format via Zoom,” Alexandra Stossel, the graduate assistant for ASC@IUP said. “This allows us to offer a consistent tutoring schedule and keeps our tutors and students safe.”

“Supplemental instruction is being offered completely online during the spring semester,” Meghan Erwin (coordinator for supplemental instruction and peer assistance) said.

The move to an online format presented tutors and students with a set of unfamiliar challenges, but those challenges got easier to deal with and adapt to over time.

“At the start of the pandemic, SI was more challenging because the online modality was unfamiliar for both the SI Leaders and students,” Erwin said. “Now that we are more experienced with an online environment, the SI Leaders have become comfortable with the format and effectively use online resources to assist students.

“Student engagement is a challenge in this online modality, but as students continue to regularly

attend, the environment becomes more comfortable for students to engage with the SI Leaders and other students.”

“Once students are familiar with the online format, tutoring is more accessible for every student,” Stossel said. “A student can connect with a tutor on Zoom from any location. They do not need to be on campus in the tutoring center to receive assistance. We are also able to offer more flexible tutoring hours because of the online format.”

Both Erwin and Stossel indicated that the overall number of students seeking Peer Tutoring and SI services has decreased during the pandemic.

“I do think we are capturing less students, likely because of Zoom fatigue, or students have other commitments that fill the time of their SI support,” Erwin said. “Students residing at home may have more barriers to accessing online support if they have commitments in and outside their home.”

Despite the decrease in overall demand for Peer Tutoring and SI, many students are still seeking valuable assistance from the ASC@ IUP. “We know from student feedback that many students are seeking assistance, especially with their experiences in remote learning,” Stossel said. “Faculty members, athletic coaches and university staff are also reaching out to us on behalf of their students to inquire about tutoring.”

The online format of classes during the last two semesters has been especially challenging for some students, and the ASC@IUP is always there to help students who are struggling.

“If you are doing poorly in one of your classes, Peer Tutoring and SI can really help you to bring your grade up,” Nick McShea (junior, nursing) said. “SI is the biggest reason that I passed some of my more challenging classes here at IUP.”

February 17, 2021

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Therapy has gone to the dogs

Just Paws therapy dogs return to campus to help students de-stress MARIAH MAUSER Contributing Writer lmvbc@iup.edu @ThePennIUP With midterms coming up and the semester going into full swing, you can visit the IUP therapy dogs to destress.

The Just Paws therapy dogs are enthusiastic about helping students get the animal therapy they need. According to the American Psychology Association, college students are experiencing mental health issues at a concerningly high rate. The most common issues are anxiety, depression, homesickness and relationship problems.

Luckily enough, these are all things that therapy dogs have been proven to help with. Paws for People, a non-profit based in the U.S., reported that dogs help lower anxiety and stress levels as well as raise dopamine levels which helps with depression.

“Being able to see the therapy dogs is super helpful,” Bridget Gardner (freshman, environmental engineer) said. “Keeping on top of classes and work is super stressful, and my day is made one hundred times better when I get the chance to go to an event.”

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Just Paws event had to stop many of their operations.

“For a while we weren’t able to do visits where people could come and go,” Sara Dillon, assistant director of health and wellness promotion said. “Last semester, we actually did it where we did visits where students had to make appointments.

This semester, we decided to return a bit more to normalcy.”

On campus, there are events in which the dogs are easily accessible.

The Health and Wellness Promotion department {in partnership with Just Paws} hosts an event 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. every Monday in Folger Hall

where students can visit the therapy dogs.

“We have three to six other dogs that come alternatively,” Dillon said.

“It depends on the weather and the pandemic right now.”

If going to events and having lots of people around isn’t your style, then you can always book an appointment with the dogs. Dillon said that she can be contacted through her school email so that students may request to see Ranger throughout the week.

Students can even request a specific dog when booking an appointment.

“Seeing the therapy dogs, it makes me feel like I can take a break from all the stress that I feel as a student here,” Jules Stuer (junior, psychology) said. “It’s very helpful just to pet the puppies.”

When the thought of midterms, exams, personal life, and just school in general becomes too stressful, think about stopping by Folger Hall and giving the therapy dogs a visit.

(Mariah Mauser/The Penn) Bam-Bam (top) and Ranger (bottom) are two of many therapy dogs offered by Just Paws.

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February 17, 2021

News

Churches to hold Ash Wednesday services despite restrictions GABRIELLA BYRNE Contributing Writer bmwx@iup.edu @ThePennIUP Churches around Indiana are taking precautions to celebrate Ash Wednesday this year.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season, and it is a day to reflect and repent.

During the Lent season, Christians are encouraged to participate in penitential practices as their faith encourages them to reflect during this season.

St. Thomas More University Church and St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish both are avoiding direct contact with their parish members by sprinkling ashes for those taking part of Ash Wednesday.

The process potentially involves ashes spreading onto the face, clothes and floor.

The Pastoral Associate and

(Steven Langdon Jr./The Penn) The St. Thomas More University Parish (left) and the St. Bernard Clairvaux Parish (right) will be holding Ash Wednesday services.

Director of Campus Ministry Cindy Schillinger explains the two phrases heard during the receiving of ashes in an Ash Wednesday service. “’Remember you are dust and into dust you shall return’ reminds us of our mortality and

that we will return to God,” Schillinger said. “‘Repent and return to the Gospel’ is also reminding us that for Lent we need to be practicing our faith and be more faithful.”

It is reminded in the bulletins and by clergy that taking part in

the ashes on Ash Wednesday is not a obligation.

Both parishes will be holding the Ash Wednesday service Wednesday; the St. Bernard Parish service is at 7:30 a.m., and St. Thomas More’s are at 12:10 p.m. and 7 p.m.

As for COVID-19 regulations, masks are worn by clergy and members of the church, and distancing is self-imposed when walking to receive communion.

Pews are taped off, so seating is every other pew; families sit together with space in between other church members.

St. Thomas More holds around 600 people, but under pandemic guidelines, capacity is down to 130.

Father Richard Owens will be administering ashes at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, and Father Tage Danielson will be administering ashes at St. Thomas More University Church.

Graystone Presbyterian Church will also hold an Ash Wednesday service 7 p.m. There will be both a recorded viewing on YouTube and an in-person physical service.

Since their in-person services in July, COVID-19 precautions have been enforced by Graystone Presbyterian Church, with masks being requested for the entirety of the church service.

Normally, seating accommodates approximately 400 participants; however, in separating pews to space out members of the church, capacity is reduced to approximately 160 participants.

As with the turnout cut in half for in-person attendance since the pandemic, campus students

have been noted by Associate Pastor Joe Stroud to be thoughtful in ensuring the safety of elderly or health-afflicted individuals by isolating when suspected of contact with those possibly infected.

“We have a lot of respect for the campus students who’ve been a part [of the services] and who have taken those precautions seriously,” Stroup said. “We want them to be a part of the church family just to know they have a place to belong… especially this year.”

Online services are available for those of the Presbyterian faith or anyone that would like to take part virtually can check out the YouTube channel “Graystone Presbyterian Church.”

For the Ash Wednesday service, all clergy members will be wearing masks and gloves when administering ashes as well as mixing ashes with oil so it applies to the skin. This process is similar to how they handle giving communion to those that wish to receive it during their services.

“For us, the Ash Wednesday service is less about feeling down about ourselves, but it is more about reminding ourselves that we are humble people,” Stroud said.

“This is a season that has seen a lot of [downsides] just over the last year, and my hope is that in coming to the scriptures and in coming together it can be a time of beauty as well.”

All are welcome to attend any service as every church is open to the public whether a member or not.

February 17, 2021

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Help, is there a doctor in the house?

Healthcare professionals important now more than ever CAIO GOMES Staff Writer hysbc@iup.edu @ThePennIUP The COVID-19 pandemic affected many different professional areas, but none were hit as much as the healthcare professions.

Throughout the past year, doctors and nurses all around the world have been working around the clock to keep the most patients alive as possible.

They have been deemed as “first responders” by the Department of Homeland Security. This means that they are considered by the government as the primary line of defense against the pandemic.

Such designation comes with gratitude from the general public.

Hallmark noticed a spike in “thank you” cards during the pandemic, while ads thanking health care workers have been nonstop – even during the election period.

“I definitely think this pandemic showed me and everyone else how vital doctors and nurses really are,” Sydney Greitz (freshman, exploratory) said. “All healthcare workers

(The Penn Archives) Sally B. Johnson Hall is where the nursing department is located. should be much more appreciated than they are.”

Such rise in appreciation for healthcare workers have inspired many to pursue a career in the field. According to an article by the U.S. News & World Report, nursing programs saw a rise of between 10 percent to 20 percent in applications for the 2020–21 school year.

It’s important to point out that even prior to the pandemic, nursing programs have always been very competitive. According to the American Association of Colleges

of Nursing, the number of applications for nursing programs throughout the U.S was so high during the 2018–19 school year that more than 75,000 qualified candidates were denied entry.

To better accommodate this rising increase of students and to fit the new COVID-19 guidelines issued by the CDC, IUP and other universities around the globe had to adjust their nursing and health care programs.

“This pandemic has a major impact on our undergraduate

program in terms of modifying the teaching methodology,” Dr. Nashat Zuraikat, the master's program coordinator in the nursing and allied health professions department said. “[We changed] from 100 percent face-to-face to a combination of online using Zoom, learning lab and simulation to substitute clinical practice for nursing students.”

On the other hand, Zuraikat added that while the healthcare programs at the undergraduate level saw a rise in interest, the same cannot be said about the graduate and professional level.

“Despite our master's program [being] offered fully online since 2018, we noticed a drop in the application and enrollment for the spring and fall 2021,” he said.

This seems to be a rather national trend.

Nurse.org has pointed out that, because of the pandemic, many healthcare systems have been overworking nurses, sometimes not even paying the correct amount for the overtime – a measure that is not illegal in many states because they have declared

being in a state of emergency.

This leads many graduating students at the undergraduate level feel nervous as of whether or not they should pursue a graduate degree, as there seems to be a rather urgent need for them right now.

There is a debate regarding whether or not this is a good thing.

The website pointed out that while it’s great that incoming professionals are coming to provide relief to current professionals, this may cause psychological damage as many students - even at the undergraduate level - may feel insecure about their own capacity since they miss out in certain experiences. “[One] experience that I’m missing out is on job shadowing,” Lily Carone (freshman, pre-med) said. “It’s hard to figure out what specialty I am interested in without seeing what the physicians do.”

Whether or not some of these changes will remain in practice only time will tell, but one thing is certain: The hard work of nurses, doctors and other professionals during the pandemic will be cherished and remembered by all.

Former president acquitted, students share thoughts AMBER URANKER Contributing Writer kyhy@iup.edu @ThePennIUP With the historic second impeachment and subsequent acquittal of former President Donald Trump, IUP students are torn in their opinions.

After the deadly riot at the Capitol on Jan. 6, the Democratic majority House of Representatives called for impeachment. Government officials received death threats, rioters breached the Senate Chamber and the Capitol was vandalized and looted.

Five people died, and more than 140 others were injured during the riot that was started to disrupt the counting of the Electoral College votes.

There has been a lot of controversy during the 2020 election that has gotten Trump to the point of being impeached for the second time. For example, his controversial and sometimes erroneous posts on social media led to him being per-

(Facebook) Former President Donald Trump with wife, former First Lady Melania Trump

manently suspended from Twitter and other platforms. The division between Democrats and Republicans is at an all-time high.

During Trump’s presidency, he had falsely claimed he had won the 2020 election. He was accused of encouraging the Capitol riot and had tried to overturn his loss by allegedly using illegal means.

This hasn’t set well with many Americans, including some students at IUP.

On Saturday, Trump was acquitted with a vote of 57 guilty votes and 43 not guilty votes.

Seventeen Republicans would have had to join all Democrats in voting to convict Trump to obtain the two-thirds supermajority required for conviction. Only seven Republicans voted to convict, while others like former Majority Leader Mitch McConnell believed the conviction would be unconstitutional.

IUP students have mixed feelings

about how this now affects the U.S., themselves and their future.

“I think that this information will negatively impact the younger generations,” Carly Brewster (freshman, psychology) said. “I feel like it shows them that it’s okay [for the president] to commit these crimes because, in the end, you won’t be held accountable for any of it.”

Trump is going down in history as the first president in U.S. history to be impeached (and acquitted) twice. The goal of the impeachment was not to remove him from office, but to prevent him from running for office in the future and to be held accountable for his actions.

"I think the outcome is fair,” Alicia Smail (junior, pre-med) said.

“He isn’t in office anymore, and by the way America reacted to this election, it doesn’t seem like the Democratic Party will ever allow him back.”

After the conclusion of the election, a lot of people were concerned about the future of America, and the riot showed how willing people are to use violence

and make threats to get what they want.

“Based on the research I have done, this riot plot was premeditated and was a scene that wasn’t necessary,” Tara May (sophomore, nursing) said. “But I don’t believe Trump was the leader behind it.”

Many people believe Trump had nothing to do with the events that happened at the Capitol. Although Trump was not convicted for inciting the deadly riot, others believe that he encouraged his supporters to be unnecessarily violent and criminal that day.

Currently, Trump is being investigated by the state of Georgia for his alleged election interference. They are currently interviewing witnesses on Trump’s real estate business in New York.

There is also an investigation being done by Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr. You can read more about it from the New York Times: tinyurl.com/4gws9sdj

Opinion

IUP goes brick buildings over green grass No doubt the ceaseless construction around campus has piqued your interest.

With the building of Kopchick Hall disrupting the flow of foot traffic to and from the Oak Grove, it begs the question of why there are still several empty buildings on campus.

In “normal” years, the open green space around North Dining Hall would be abuzz with student activity. Pickup games of ultimate frisbee, Indiana residents taking strolls and friends lounging on the grass were commonplace on nice days.

But because of Kopchick Hall’s placement, the open space will be all but demolished.

Why on earth would a natural science building destroy some of campus’ only empty space instead of taking advantage of the multiple empty buildings littering IUP? Take Foster Hall, for instance.

It closed its doors for the spring 2016 semester, and it’s been empty ever since. Despite it being abandoned, electricity is still run through the building, and lights can be seen on at night. God only knows how much energy and money has been wasted just on that. Frankly, it’s an eyesore smack-dab in

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the middle of campus.

Why couldn’t Kopchick Hall have gone there?

Don’t even get me started on Folger Hall. That newly renovated dining hall was open for four whole years before it was shut down in fall 2019. Now, it serves as a “student center,” because it’s not like there’s an entire library and several other hangout spots around campus.

Sure, incoming students like upto-date facilities. But why do colleges interpret that as an excuse to construct brand-new buildings instead of fixing up the existing structures? Surely that would cost less and be much less wasteful and impactful on the environment.

The ground floor of Sutton Hall is nearly impossible to navigate because of the winding hallways, low ceilings and lack of signs, but God forbid we go one year without spending millions of dollars on yet another dining hall that will be shut down in the blink of an eye.

Campus aesthetics is not an insignificant factor in prospective students’ willingness to apply. If

(The Penn) Foster Hall has not had students roaming since spring 2016. someone thinks that a place is “ugly,” then why would they shell out tens of thousands of dollars a year to live there?

It makes zero sense to forsake dingy, dilapidated, deserted buildings just to kill what little open green space is left on campus.

Green space is important for everyone’s mental health, per this article by NASA:

February 3, 2021

https://tinyurl.com/qntfn2c4.

So why, pray tell, are we destroying it with a new building?

IUP’s campus is one of the only open green spaces in Indiana Borough. Sure, there are places to get your fill of nature right outside of town, but having physical green space within walking distance is important.

Since we’re all stuck inside anyway, just being able to look outside your window and seeing grass and trees can do wonders.

But from now until Kopchick Hall’s planned opening for fall 2023, students will see only construction where there should be swaths of unperturbed green.

How long until the Oak Grove is no more?

Yes, that is a bad-faith slippery

slope argument, but you get my point.

Perhaps existing structures should be fully dealt with before breaking ground on a new one. It seems like the no-brainer choice, really. Haven’t your parents ever told you to go through your old toys and get rid of some before you can get new ones?

To be fair, most students here are not civil engineers. Maybe there is a logical explanation for Foster remaining abandoned with full electricity while a gigantic, frankly not needed science building tears up campus for the foreseeable future.

But what would I know, eh? I just live here.

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Opinion

Culture

Culture Editor: Eva Tillich – jxsbc@iup.edu Lead Culture Writer: Haley Brown – tbfx@iup.edu

(Facebook) The Indiana Players performed “Clue”(above) and a variety of other in-person performances. Now, due to COVID-19 precautions, the theater plans to go virtual.

‘A l l ’s W e l l T h a t E n d s W e l l ’

Indiana Players plan virtual performances despite COVID-19 setbacks GABRIELLA BYRNE Contributing Writer bmwx@iup.edu @ThePennIUP The Indiana Players uphold a connection with their audience virtually while dealing with the uncertainty of future in-person theater performances.

The volunteer theater organization has been working to keep the community entertained with performances since its first show in 1977. Anyone with an interest in theater can join, and all are encouraged to get involved with this outlet for entertainment.

Community is vital for a non-profit organization like this one to thrive, and with Gov. Tom Wolf’s requesting that recreational activities be temporarily shut down, Indiana Players has obliged with postponing upcoming shows.

Normally busy year-round, the theater company now communicates primarily through Facebook with less interaction than usual.

Culture

(Facebook) The Indiana Players value the safety of their patrons, so they are working to create safe events.

That being said, auditions are currently being held with careful regard to COVID-19 regulations. In the fall, a few in-person events were held, and precautions were taken that consisted of taking temperatures at the door, holding an audience limit at 25 percent capacity of the theater and 6 feet of distance between audience members, and mask-wearing was enforced.

In-person auditions are by appointment to limit people in the theater and require mask-wearing, social distancing rules and sanitation procedures. Although in-person auditions grant better judgment in regard to viewing onstage presence and voice projection, online auditions are still available for convenience and safety reasons.

As for the future of Indiana

February 17, 2021

Players, board member Kathleen Kerns said that the theater plans to hold virtual performances until May. She said that it is difficult to plan ahead with such an uncertain future.

“One of the most difficult problems has been the uncertainty,” Kerns said. “It has been a huge challenge to plan for the future because we never know what will happen from week to week or month to month. Last March when we were first required to close, we never dreamed that we would still be dealing with this a year later.”

Virtual performances, while the safest option, come with their own batch of problems.

As Indiana Players is a nonprofit organization that relies on donations, members must work with a tight budget and limited tools at their disposal to combat issues like bandwidth and internet speed during online shows.

One small thing that has come out of the pandemic is the ability to focus on improvement.

With the help of donors, renovations including the raising of their ceiling, stage expansion and lighting equipment upgraded to LED lights were now able to be done.

Uncertainty and regulations aside, Indiana Players continues to invite engagement with their community with the thought of everyone’s safety always in mind.

Ticket sales are currently available as the quickest way to support this theater company, and any changes that can and may occur will be addressed in monthly newsletters or regularly updated social media.

“We have asked our patrons for patience at this time of [uncertainty] to know that all plans are tentative and subject to change at short notice,” Kern said. “The safety of our patrons and volunteers is our priority.”

To keep up to date with Indiana Players’ upcoming events, please visit their social media and www.indianaplayers.com.

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February 17, 2021

Culture

B rosk i, Sch a u e r brin g la u gh s, a d vice t o IUP STATIC HALEY BROWN tbfx@iup.edu I am Haley and will be writing weekly about the upcoming events for STATIC. Stay tuned.

On Friday, the Student Activity Committee (STATIC) will be hosting a live virtual evening with viral video sensation Brittany Broski and her BFF roommate, Sarah Schauer, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Zoom.

The event is free, requires no preregistration and is open to the entire IUP community. The Zoom link for the event and other information regarding it can be found on STATIC’s web page. The waiting room for the Zoom room will open at 7:45 p.m.

Broski and Schauer will answering some questions from the

(Facebook/Twitter) Brittany Broski (left) and Sarah Schauer (right) are popular content creators on the app TikTok. STATIC hosts and from some audience members during the Zoom evening. Questions from audience members can be submitted before and during the event, and a limited number of submitted audience questions will be answered.

Questions from the audience can be submitted through the social media pages of STATIC, including its Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts. The questions can be direct messaged to any of these social media accounts. STATIC is

also accepting audience questions through email at staticatiup@gmail. com.

Brittany Broski, formerly known as Brittany Tomlinson and also affectionately known as “Kombucha Girl,” became viral internet star after posting her reaction to her first taste of kombucha on TikTok in August of 2019. She currently has more than 6 million TikTok followers and works as a successful social media personality and comedian.

Broski’s interaction with virality

also ended her job at the bank where she was employed at the time of her video’s blowing up. Her boss there thought that some of the lude captions on the millions of kombucha reaction face memes would tarnish the company’s reputation.

Broski’s climb to fame began with the creation of her TikTok account in 2019. Soon after the posting of her kombucha tastetest, her fame skyrocketed, and her facial expressions during her taste test got the attention they deserved. Not only did her reaction expressions blow up on TikTok but also gained notoriety as memes on other social media platforms with a myriad of hilarious captions from internet users across the continent.

Sarah Schauer came into Brittany’s life after they were both fired in the same week. Schauer tweeted about her upcoming move to L.A., and Broski slid into her Instagram DM’s to ask if Schauer would need a roommate for her new apartment.

She said yes, and now they are

roommates and best friends who occasionally collaborate for YouTube videos.

Schauer, like Broski, is also a popular TikTok content creator and has a large following on Twitter, which opened up the opportunity for her to start working as a copyeditor for the popular digital media company, Buzzfeed. Schauer also rose to fame for a short time due to her mocking humor in her Vine videos about the annoying people she meets as a waitress and, like Broski, also decided to build her career around the comedy bits that once brought her internet stardom.

In an interview with Insider, Broski and Schauer admitted that they are thinking about beginning an entirely new YouTube channel together that will be a duo comedy account featuring both of them.

They shared that they have yet to choose a name that is equal parts clever, fitting and humorous but are excited to take on the challenge of satisfying their YouTube audience with their future channel.

Culture

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February 17, 2021

S tu d e n ts ta k e th e B A C C H U S B IN G O B 8 HALEY BROWN Lead Culture Writer tbfx@iup.edu @ThePennIUP BACCHUS Bingo is still happening but in a virtual format this time, and the event promises as much excitement and prize winning as it always has.

Many students are unaware that bingo is now taking place virtually every Friday through Zoom. The games are held from 9:30 p.m. to about 11 p.m. To participate, students should email Ann Sesti, the director of Student Wellness and Engagement at IUP, or email atod-oasis@iup.edu.

After emailing, interested students will receive a virtual bingo card through email, and if it does not show up in their inbox automatically, they are advised to check their spam or junk mail folder.

While the event is, of course, still occurring, there are some slight modifications due to social distancing guidelines and chang-

es to how the game is played.

Since the first bingo game of the semester was played Jan. 29, the students in charge of running the bingo games are still deciding on some of the different configurations they will want to include in the games.

The first game of this semester was played mostly with “regular” bingo (fill five spaces across in any direction). The final game of the event, for the reward of the highest cash prize of the night, was a blackout bingo round, which meant the winner would have to be the first to fill out every space on their card.

When joining the bingo Zoom meeting room, students are asked to add their IUP email letters to their name in the zoom so they can verify the winners as the night goes on. The virtual bingo cards that students receive by email prior to the start of the event are reusable and can be reset as soon as another player wins bingo.

The virtual bingo cards provided can be reused for the rest of

the semester, and the Zoom room like for the first meeting will also be used for the remainder of the games of the semester. During the game, the students running the event share their screen with the Zoom players, and the bingo numbers that are called are displayed on the screen in case any players miss a number announcement from the student moderators.

When a player calls bingo, everyone is told to keep their virtual cards in case it is a false bingo, and the moderators ask the triumphant player for their virtual bingo card number to verify their win. If they win, there is a reset button for the virtual bingo card, and another round begins with the announcement of the next gift card that is at stake for that round.

“Shayla Walker, who is the other co-president, and I would go to Walmart, and we would choose prizes that we knew would interest college students,” Elizabeth Ebert (sophomore, communications media) said.

“For the past two semesters,

due to the pandemic, we have decided to just do gift cards in various amounts. We offer a variety of gift cards this coming semester including food like Uber Eats, McDonald’s, Panera and Starbucks.

And some can vary to stores like Joann [Fabrics], American Eagle, Bath and Body Works and Target.

“But we always make sure that we have that big prize that everyone wants which amounts to $50.”

New gift cards are offered as the prizes to each round and the gift card amounts, and stores can vary from week to week as well. The gift cards offered at the first bingo game of the semester included gift cards for Dunkin Donuts, Giant Eagle, Panera, DSW, Bath and Body Works and Target as the largest prize for the final round of the night. There was also a gift card that could be used in multiple locations for different purposes and store types.

With fewer students being made aware that bingo is still taking place, attendance has been lower, and the chances of winning

multiple prizes has increased, but some of the excitement must do with competition, of course.

“When bingo was in person at Ohio Room located in the Hadley Union Building (HUB), our attendance was usually between 50 and 100 students,” Ebert said.

“Now that it is over Zoom, our attendance rates have been lower, but we are always open to new players each week.

“The past two semesters, our totals have remained the same, which is roughly 25 to 30 students, which means more opportunities to win. But we also find that attendance is lower because most students don’t know about bingo being over Zoom.”

If you are looking for an exciting, free and, most importantly, safe event to attend Friday nights consider joining in the fun of BACCHUS Bingo. Have a great time with friends, make new ones and share in the excitement of the chance to win gift cards to use around Indiana and beyond.

Nash’s Crimson Craft Hour helps students unleash creativity AMARI WALKER Staff Writer jqtbc@iup.edu @ThePennIUP BACCHUS is now offering a craft hour to help students destress and relax.

The craft hour, called Nash’s Crimson Crafts, is host by Nash Peters, a member of BACCHUS. The craft hour takes place on Zoom.

Nash’s Crimson Crafts is an event in which students can make different kinds of crafts every week. Some of the crafts include friendship bracelets, popsicle stick hexagon shelves, stress balls, yarn wall hangings, bookmarks and more.

Between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. every Monday, students will be given the opportunity to participate in Nash’s Crimson Crafts. Within this hour, people can relax, cre-

(Flickr) A variety of projects will be done at the craft hour, so there will be an activity for everyone. ate friendships, build self-esteem and help with insomnia.

Peters hopes for the craft hour to signify a time for students to relax while being able to unleash their own creativity.

“Every craft has room for each student to personalize it and make it their own,” Peters said. “I

want this to be an opportunity for students to destress and have fun with their friends.”

The craft hour can be beneficial for students who have trouble sleeping and want to make new friends.

Insomnia does not allow you to fall and stay asleep. If you are

having trouble sleeping, knitting and crocheting can be a therapeutic way to lose yourself in motion. Knitting can be considered as active mediation, which helps relax your mind by focusing on the pattern of your creation.

Making bracelets is a great way to keep you simultaneously focused and active, which may also make you sleep better and longer. Also, they can be a great accessory for you and your friends.

You could have the opportunity of making plenty of new friends at Nash’s Crimson Crafts. Creating projects can help improve relationships with others because it provides an opportunity to spend time with other students. People tend to realize their common interests when they are in a peaceful environment where they can fully express themselves.

Art can be a common interest for many. Many like it because of the possibilities. You can create art by painting, coloring, sketching, knitting and making crafts.

Art may either your hobby or your passion. You could sketch designs in your notebook, write your name over and over or dot the border of your paper when you are bored. These are all small ways that may help you relieve just a little bit of stress during the day.

Students tend to lack focus and drift off to sleep when they are stressed out. Some stress signals are headaches, restlessness, insomnia and constantly worrying.

If you want to take break from stress, plan to attend Nash’s Crimson Crafts at 5 p.m. Monday. You can also check Crimson Connect or contact Nash Peters for more information about the craft hour.

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February 17, 2021

Culture

Culture

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February 17, 2021

S t u d e n t C o -O p i n t r o d u c e s n e w w a y t o w o r k o u t AMARI WALKER Staff Writer jqtbc@iup.edu @ThePennIUP Wellbeats has officially arrived on campus.

On Jan. 14, IUP Campus Recreation Services finished the implementation of the Wellbeats virtual fitness kiosk that allows students to participate in in-person Wellbeats classes in the Hadley Union Building (HUB).

Wellbeats is a fitness platform that offers more than 500 workouts, nutrition and mindfulness classes. Last semester, the Student Cooperative Association and IUP Campus Rec partnered with Wellbeats to provide all IUP students free, remote access to the platform from any personal device.

This semester, IUP Campus Recreation decided to take it a step further and add the kiosk. The new kiosk provides students with a des-

(Natalie Stanton) Wellbeats provides fitness programs that can be done in the comfort of your own home. ignated on-campus space to take free Wellbeats virtual classes in-person but without a live instructor.

The classes are part of IUP Group Fitness’ semester lineup.

Every Monday through Friday this semester, IUP Group Fitness will offer at minimum one daily Wellbeats class.

Tatianna Cleffi (nursing, freshman) has not attended a Wellbeats virtual class. However, Cleffi would

be interested in joining.

“I am trying to do more fitness activities,” Cleffi said.

The classes will be held in IUP Group Fitness Studio C, located on the second floor of the HUB, above the HUB Fitness Center.

Due to safety precautions, the maximum capacity will be limited to 10 participants. Access to the class will be granted on a firstcome, first-serve basis.

“I think Wellbeats will be popular with students because, especially during COVID-29, we have more time to focus on our individual wellbeing,” Cleffi said.

This program will benefit the life and health of the students because it will provide them a way to engage in a physical activity. Physical activity is important because it can improve brain function, help protect memory and thinking skills.

Staying inactive can increase the chances of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, along with other health issues. Finding activities that keep you active can bring you a piece of mind too.

Some physical activities that you may enjoy are walking and stretching, along with trying to stand up after sitting for a long period of time. Standing up while working can put more stress on your body, which helps burn more calories than sitting. Walking can

burn calories as well.

Another way to stay productive is stretching. Stretching maintains muscle flexibility and keeps your muscles remain strong and healthy.

“Providing resources through workout and nutrition classes can benefit students by encouraging then to be fit and live a healthier lifestyle,” Cleffi said.

Students will also have an opportunity to personally reserve Studio C at no charge and take Wellbeats classes of their choosing – at a time of their choosing – with up to nine other participants.

Reservations can be submitted through 25Live Pro at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/2ombbntw.

To use Wellbeats, students need to create an account. All students have received an opt-in confirmation email with an invitation code, which will allow them to register at no cost. To use the kiosk, students will be prompted to login with their Wellbeats credentials.

Ir o n C it y H o u s e r o c k e r s A metal band from the Steel City Local Bands LANE LANNAN ffpcc@iup.edu I am in the top .001 percent of The Beach Boys’ fans on Spotify.

I also like playing games and vibing with my party lights.

Pittsburgh is famous for its strong underground music scene, and a band that made this more evident is the Iron City Houserockers.

The Iron City Houserockers were started in 1976 by founding members Joe Grushecky, Art Nardini, Gil Snyder, Marc Reisman and Ned Rankin. They signed with Cleveland International Records and released their first album, “Love’s So Tough,” in 1979.

The song “Hideaway” is a standout from the album, as it appears in the band’s top five most-streamed songs on Spotify, coming in at 2,228 total streams.

The song was also the band’s first single, released just prior to the “Love’s So Tough” album.

“I liked the combination of instruments that they used for the song,” Lily Carone (freshman, pre-med) said. “The melody of the song really got my foot tapping.”

Carone continued by saying that the voice of the lead singer was perfect for the song and genre. According to Carone, the raspier nature of the vocals was perfect for the style of song that the band was doing.

Grushecky is the one responsible for the vocals, which he did specifically to imitate the power and vocal style of vocalists like The Rolling Stone’s front man, Mick Jagger.

Following the small success that their first album saw, the Iron City Houserockers started work in the studio on their second album, “Have a Good Time but… Get out Alive.” This album was the first time that the band was made known to the nation, with the album being featured in Rolling Stone magazine, being headlined as a “New American Classic.”

The album features several standout tracks, including its namesake. “Have a Good Time (But Get out Alive),” “Junior’s

Bar” and “Price of Love.”

“I like how catchy the chorus of the song [‘Have a Good Time (But Get out Alive)’] was, as well as how good the guitar solo was,” Delilah Rivera (freshman, finance) said. “It was hard to hear some of the words, mainly because of the vocal style.”

According to Rivera, the instrumentation was the best part of the song. Specifically, the ‘80s style of guitars and drums really stuck out, because, as Rivera said, it is easy to just listen and vibe along with.

The band experienced minor lineup changes between albums.

For example, Gary Scalese played lead guitar on the first album but was replaced by Eddie Britt on the second, third and fourth albums.

This is part of the reason why the instrumental style of the band slightly changes to feature more heavy rock from the first to second album. A meshing of the two styles the band did can be heard with the song “Price of Love.”

“It’s definitely not the kind of music that I would normally listen to,” Gabby Probst (freshman, early childhood/special education) said.

“That being said, it reminds me of

(Facebook) The Iron City Houserockers’ albums feature powerful vocals and ‘80s rock sounds. the music that my parents used to play when I was younger.”

Probst went on to say that, since there is the connection to the style of music that her parents used to play, the song reminded her of summer memories with her family. Those memories are especially important in the pandemic lifestyle of seclusion and quarantines that many people have adopted through the past year.

Following 1979’s “Love’s So Tough” and 1980’s “Have a Good Time but… Get out Alive,” the Iron City Houserockers released two more albums: 1981’s “Blood on the Bricks” and 1983’s “Cracking Under Pressure.”

They were released by the band under the updated name of The

Houserockers, as the “Iron City” moniker got the band in trouble when they toured at cities that were rivals of their native Pittsburgh.

The band split up shortly after the release of “Cracking Under Pressure,” as sales caused their record label to drop them.

This led front man and vocalist Grushecky to start a moderately successful solo career, eventually crossing paths with artists like Bruce Springsteen.

Despite the breakup of the group in 1983, the Iron City Houserockers show the powerhouse that is the Pittsburgh rock scene. So, if you are in the mood for ‘80s rock, stream the Iron City Houserockers on Spotify.

Sports

Sports Editor: Jeff Hart – J.R.Hart2@iup.edu

Running with Hawks: Coach Zins gives season preview ‘The work we have been putting in will eventually be rewarded’

AUSTIN SMITH

Staff Writer A.S.Smith7@iup.edu @ThePennIUP

Hawk nation is ready to fly alongside IUP’s runners.

The cold weather interferes with a lot of activities, but not the IUP cross country teams. It still may be cold out, but that doesn’t change the fact that the season is right around the corner.

Of course, the COVID-19 pandemic by far is nothing new right now, but it’s still a topic to deal with in the sports world.

The training can always be a dilemma for any Division II athlete at IUP, or any athlete in general right now, but many will overcome without a problem.

“We’ve been training since March,” head coach Joey Zins said. “Other than a couple break periods in May and November, the team has been preparing so that we would be ready when allowed to return to competition.

Our team has taken a big picture approach knowing that the work we have been putting in will eventually be rewarded.

“Training has been a challenge this winter due to the weather, but the team is figuring out a way to not let the cold, snow and ice slow them down.”

Training will do a great deal for an athlete, and when starting the training as

early as possible, that will bump any team’s motivation. Resilience is a word that can be used to describe a team like IUP, a team that finds ways to get it done.

The team is set for flight with a mini-invitational meet Saturday at

IUP. This is considered the “Welcome Back” meet and should be a good warmup for the Hawks; however, IUP will not have too much action this season, as it is a shorter one.

The team will compete in the

Tori James

14

(IUP Athletics) Coach Zins is ready to lead his athletes to victory.

February 17, 2021

California University of Pennsylvania invitational at California on March 6, and then the PSAC Championships will be held March 20. So, what does a shorter season mean for the Crimson Hawks?

“Right now, the number one goal is to have a meet,” Zins said.

“I want our student athletes to be able to put on the IUP uniform and stand on the starting line.

This is a moment we have all been thinking about for a very long time.

“As long as we can stay healthy, and the scheduled meets take place, I am confident in our team’s ability to compete at a high level once they are out there.”

The goal for the Hawks is to be out there competing, which is the most important, and good things will follow. Some rosters are stacked with veteran experience and some a very big mix.

The Hawks have a melting pot of very young and veteran talent on the team.

“We have 10 freshmen on the men’s distance squad, which is the most we have had in any single year since I started coaching at IUP in 2009,” Zins said. “Marco Cardone (freshman, political science) and Nate Kuntz (freshman, kinesiology) both stood out during fall practices and consistently ran among our top five during time trials.

“Mentioning a bit on the women’s side, Tori James (freshman, nursing) has really stood out, and she has been able to run with our top runners in practices since arriving on campus.”

So, with 10 freshmen on the roster, that means the Hawks will have a bright future. The mix of talent though with the upperclassmen sure does go a long way as well. Speaking of veteran talent on the team, the Hawks have a few runners who have improved their skills dealing with their speed.

“Since we last competed for last winter, both Erin McGrath (sophomore, accounting) from the women’s team and Evan Weaver (junior, natural science) have made incredible strides as

distance runners,” Zins said.

“They ran well during last cross country and indoor track seasons, but they are at a whole different level now.”

Looks like the Hawks have some surprising talent on both the men’s and women’s squads.

A shorter season means you do not have much time to tell who your opponents are and what they have done in the offseason.

“It’s been so long since competition took place that we really don’t know what other teams are going to look like,” Zins said.

“Our most important meet will be the PSAC Championships on March 20.

I believe both teams are capable of improving on their performances from 2019.”

Competition is always nice, but going out and doing what you love can mean the most to athletes.

“Their athletic careers have been put on hold and taken away from them for a year,” Zins said.

“It is hard for some people to truly understand how terrible that is.

The team has remained extremely dedicated despite the loss of previous seasons.

“We are ready to be back.”

With the min-invitational coming up, there is no doubt that the IUP campus and community will be ready to cheer on their Hawks to great success.

Marco cardone

Sports

February 17, 2021

Sports

15

Dysfunctional Valentine’s Day sports couples: Carmelo Anthony is winning back his doubters

Jeffery Hart

Sports Editor J.R.Hart2@iup.edu @ThePennIUP With Valentine’s Day come and gone, I found myself in the mood for a dysfunctional love story.

When it comes to dysfunctional love stories, I can think of none better than the relationship between Carmelo Anthony and NBA fans.

For those that regularly follow The Penn, you already know about my soft spot for NBA legend Carmelo Anthony. The former NBA All-Star is in the final stretch of what has been an impressive professional career.

Despite Melo’s greatness, he still has a good number of doubters.

Despite his collegiate championship, 10 all-star appearances, three Olympic gold medals, and spending the better part of two decades averaging 23 points per game, he still has doubters.

Carmelo Anthony’s “golden years” have been a well-documented drama at The Penn. I have covered his fall from grace with the New York Knicks, all the way to his resurgence with the Portland Trailblazers.

During that period, Melo was on four different rosters in his short time between the Knicks and Trailblazers. During his time on the Rockets in 2018, Melo had reached an all-time low in his career where he was let go by Houston after the 10th game of the regular season.

This process was especially hard for Anthony, who had to adjust from franchise centerpiece to off the team within a matter of a few short seasons.

“I felt like I was being fired,” Anthony said of the event in an appearance on “First Take.”

It was personal for Anthony since basketball is what has helped him accomplish so much throughout his career.

Now he was being told

that he was old and that the game had passed him by.

After sitting out of the league for over a year, Carmelo Anthony has come back to the league with a vengeance. In his short time with Portland, he has already proved he is a quality player who can put up starter caliber numbers for a playoff contender.

This season, Anthony is averaging 13.5 points and almost four rebounds for a Portland team that is sitting at No. 6 in the Western Conference standings.

The best part has yet to come. In what was probably his best game as a Trailblazer, Melo went off and showed the entire world that he is still capable of performing at an elite level against the Cleveland Cavaliers in their 129–110 victory.

Anthony seemed to blow the dust off the vintage tapes and put up a 23-point performance. This impressive display of dominance showed just how deadly Anthony can be on the offensive end.

The biggest thing that critics hold against Anthony is the fact that he has not won a championship or that he has not contributed to a winning team.

Anthony is in the process of silencing his doubters in Portland.

In the NBA bubble last postseason, Anthony got to see his first postseason action since 2017 in a first-round loss against the eventual champions, the Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite losing the playoff series, Anthony was a major contributor and even put up an astonishing 27 points in

their last game against the Lakers.

This season, it looks as though he will get another shot to prove his worth for a team that looks destined for a playoff run in the loaded Western Conference.

The relationship between Carmelo Anthony and the fans has been a tumultuous one. It is best compared to a bad relationship that failed, but you are trying to make it work out again now that you have both matured.

It seems now there has been a sort of transformation in the opinions of NBA fans and analysts on Carmelo Anthony. People who had counted him out before, are now finding themselves rooting for a 36-year-old outcast who was past his prime.

Analysts like Max Kellerman from “First Take” called Melo “past his prime” and that the league had changed from underneath him.

Now, Kellerman has stated on TV that Anthony “can be a quality starting-caliber player in the NBA.” Right now, the whole world is remembering and reminiscing at the offensive ability of Anthony.

The NBA circle is having a time of foresight and appreciation that many couples go through in dysfunctional relationships.

The world always seems to want more of Carmelo, and right when you think everyone loves his game, someone comes right in and starts the vicious cycle of doubting all over again.

While Anthony may not be receiving the revered goodbye from teams like Denver and New York, he is making a difference and making history on the Trailblazers.

In fact, Anthony surpassed Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett for the No. 12 spot on the all-time scoring list. Even though the initial breakup with Anthony was messy with Houston, it seems that the time apart has done him well.

Perhaps he will never be remembered as some of the other notable NBA legends like Jordan or Lebron, but Anthony will always have a special place in the hearts of many NBA fans.

(Jeff Hart) Carmelo Anthony has had a good run in his long career.

February 17, 2021

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Sports

(pennsburgh.com) Hot Take Jake wants to help you win money on your next NHL bet.

Hot Take Jake: Penguins a lock against Capitals this season Sports Betting Jake Taylor @JakeTaylor8726

Jake Taylor is not your typical analyst. His versatile skill set to win you money against the books in unparaleled.

The best time of year is finally upon us: The NHL is in full swing.

Connor McDavid dangles, Andrei Vasilevskiy saves and Alex Ovechkin scores. Some things never change.

However, this season is full of nothing but changes. The divisions are reorganized, there is no travel beyond regions, but the Red Wings still stink.

Let us just focus on the hometown favorites for this article, or else it could get pretty lengthy.

The rumor mill is ago, and seismic changes have already occurred in the Pittsburgh Penguins organization.

Hall of Fame General Manager, Jim Rutherford resigned from his position within the organization

seemingly out of nowhere in early February. Mario Lemieux took it upon himself to be hands-on during the hiring process for the first time since the hiring of GM JR. After many qualified suitors sought the highchair, Lemeuix and co. hired Ron Hextall as general manager and Brian Burke as president of hockey operations.

Soon after, rumors spread like wildfire. Sidney Crosby is getting traded, Evgeni Malkin is getting traded, a wholesale of superstars is to begin a rebuild. This subject was touched on heavily in my “Too Many Stats” podcast which can be found on YouTube.

Nonetheless, word has gotten out that if the Penguins do not make the playoffs or have a dud of a run like the last two seasons, management is going to sit down with the Godsby and assess the situation.

If Crosby wants to win more Stanley Cups, send him to a contender, but if he wishes to retire a Penguin and prove that he can still compete for a Cup, then keep him where he is.

Rumor has it, he would go to the Colorado Avalanche, primarily because they are the best young

team, GM Joe Sakic was Crosby’s idol and Nathan “MacDaddy” MacKinnon is his best friend. The stars are aligning, but forget that hoopla; it is time to win some money.

The Pittsburgh Penguins faced off against the Washington Capitals on Feb. 14 in PPG Paints Arena. Pittsburgh is 3-0 against the Caps this season and is fresh off their widest margin of victory all season, 6-3.

On the other side, Washington is still a deep and competitive team with the best power play in the league.

The capitals did manage to steal a game on Tuesday. They were able to take down the penguins in a landslide, beating them by a wide margin.

There are eight matchups between these two squads this season. Based on the odds for Tuesday’s match, I am going to take the Penguins going into every matchup.

The Penguins came into Tuesday’s matchup favorites at -128.

The Capitals are playing the unlike-

ly role of an underdog at +110.

While Tuesday may not have went in Pittsburgh’s favor, they are still going to dominate Washington. They have already beaten this squad three times already. Why not make it four more?

History repeats itself, and in an NHL season when teams play one another eight or nine times in the regular season, it is typical for certain teams to have another’s “number.”

The Penguins sure do seem to have the Capitals’ number this season.

Pittsburgh played an extremely strong game against them on Valentine’s Day and made a statement game win. Crosby has five points in three games against Washington this season, and his line has combined for 10 goals total.

This latest matchup set the table for their Feb. 23 rematch between these two squads.

Regardless of tonight’s outcome, history and the odds tell me that the Penguins have the advantage.

The line consisting of Crosby, Jake Guenztel and Bryan Rust have

haunted Caps fans in their sleep for the last three years. Bet on it to happen again. Hot Take Jake likes Crosby over/under 0.5 goals (over) and the Penguins money-line.

The Capitals have lost four straight, and Pittsburgh looks to make it five. Shortly after, the Penguins will stay at home and play the New York Islanders.

Pittsburgh is coming off a split series against the Isles, both games ending 4–3. This time around, I believe it will be a different outcome.

Goaltending was not very good for Pittsburgh that mini-series, and the Penguins stars are getting hot. Malkin and Crosby are out making statements to the new management, and that is not good for opposing teams. The lines for NHL do not come out until one day before, but look for some of these Pittsburgh props.

Guenztel will record at least a goal in the Islanders series, Jason Zucker over 1.5 points and John Marino to also net a Geno.

Stay on top of NHL lines this year because they only come out the night before the game, and COVID-19 has been postponing games like crazy. So, sit down, shut up and hammer the over.