NOV. 13, 2020 VOL. 28 | ISSUE 25 READ IT ONLINE! @LRU_COURIER
9000 Babcock Boulevard | Pittsburgh, Pa 15237 | 412-367-9300 | laroche.edu SGA updates By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor tudent Government Associa- tion (SGA) passed club bud- gets, while working towards Scollective and individual goals for the upcoming semester. SGA’s Financial Vice President Nathan Polacek announced club budgets. SGA allocated about $3,600 to clubs for the 2020-21 aca- demic year. Their budget allowed them to allocate up to $5,000, so they had approximately $1,400 re- maining for clubs who used their allocated budget. SGA President Natasha Flor- ence explained that SGA tried to give clubs roughly the same budget © Madeline Riccardi they were allotted last year, even Junior Michelle Bischak smashed a pumpkin with a baseball bat during a Pumpkin Smash event hosted by the though some clubs requested more. Marketing Club. See SGA, Page 19 LRU community Covid restrictions talks inclusion in place for spring By Sarah Hefferin By Julia Felton Associate Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief
n October 28, La Roche But hate groups come in many a Roche’s current covid-19 Good Friday. University held its second forms. Likar explained that hate restrictions will stay in place According to Provost and Se- inclusion council, hosted groups themselves are fragmented during the spring semester, nior Vice President for Academic Oby the office of Diversity and Inclu- groups of individuals that fit a spe- Lwhich will have an altered calendar Affairs Dr. Howard Ishiyama, those sion. cific profile. During the inclusion because of the pandemic. changes were made in response to The office’s director, Sarah forum, he discussed two types of “While our campus is doing the pandemic. White, offered this council as a hate groups: bias offenders and mi- very well regarding positive cases, “Starting the semester two weeks way for students, faculty, and staff litia groups. the covid cases continue to rise in later allows students, staff, and to come together and learn about a Beginning with bias offenders, Allegheny County and based on faculty time to self-quarantine (if specific issue surrounding diversity Likar explained that they them- those numbers, I do not see any necessary) after the holiday season and inclusion, and voice their con- selves are not as intense as terrorist changes in the current restrictions and before returning to La Roche. cerns as well as possible solutions. groups, which puts them in a dif- for the spring semester,” Chief Pan- Generally speaking, the later we This time, the council focused on ferent category. demic Safety Officer Rosemary start the more we limit the conflu- the topic of hate groups. A recent study by the University McCarthy said. She said it was “too ence of covid-19 and the flu season Law and security professor of Maryland found that: early to tell” when those restric- and that is a good thing,” Ishiyama Lawrence Likar gave the initial • If their bias is towards tions might loosen. said. “Breaks were reduced or lim- presentation and answered ques- members of the LGBTQ+ commu- According to McCarthy, univer- ited because we need to limit mass tions about hate groups. An expert nity, their median age is 24 sity officials will communicate with movement to and from campus as on who hate groups are and how • If their bias is towards citi- students about spring semester much as possible. We especially they operate, Likar led the discus- zens of a different race and ethnic- expectations and plans before and want to limit travel to other, more sion with the hope of helping the ity, their median age is 26 during the winter break. She urged negatively affected states and hot- La Roche community gain a deeper • If their bias is towards students to check their emails fre- spot areas.” understanding of the topic. Likar members of differing religions, quently over the holiday. The graduation date remained is a published author whose first their median age is 31 The spring semester will begin unchanged. Ishiyama said that book, “Eco-Warriors, Nihilistic Likar said, “You’re looking at later than originally scheduled, was to avoid hindering students’ Terrorists, and the Environment,” a group that isn’t teenagers, but with classes slated to begin on Jan. chances at summer job opportuni- focuses on environmental terror- 25. Spring break was eliminated ism, and the small-cells who com- See Inclusion Forum, and Easter break was shortened, See Spring Outlook, mit the violent acts. Page 15 with classes only cancelled on Page 19
This publication reflects the views, attitudes, interests, and tastes of the writers, editors and contributors to The Courier. It does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the administration, faculty and staff of La Roche University. The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 2 Academics How much did students Study learn this semester? tips for By Madeline Riccardi online Associate Editor he new normal on college finals campus is a combination By Julia Felton of in-person, hybrid, and Editor-in-Chief Tonline courses. A year ago, La Roche University provided strictly inals week has always online or in-person classes, but marked a stressful time for now there are more options than college students. But stu- ever before. A survey shows that Fdents are facing new obstacles, as 64 percent of La Roche students covid-19 restrictions force stu- have found the new ways of learn- dents to handle their finals re- ing to be difficult. motely online. The La Roche Courier con- Diana Atkinson, coordinator ducted a survey to determine of academic counseling, offered what percentage of the La Roche some tips for students as they community felt that they ad- © Madeline Riccardi prepare to take virtual finals from equately learned this semester. home. The survey asked 72 participants which types of classes they are taking This survey defines “learning” as Atkinson recommended cre- during the fall 2020 semester. This infographic shows the percent of remembering any new informa- ating a study plan to outline how students taking each. tion that had not been known be- you’ll tackle finals week. fore the fall 2020 semester began. “Before you move out or leave The ages of the participants the 72 surveyed, 44 said they are Of the 1,500 students at La for Thanksgiving break, take note ranged from 18 to 42. currently taking online courses, Roche, 72 took part in the sur- on when each exam or final proj- The LRU students filled out and 36 said they are taking in- vey. This included 14 freshman, ect is due,” she said. the survey in October. person classes. 12 sophomores, 15 juniors, 27 se- She suggested students write Forty-eight students of the La The survey asked students in niors, and four graduate students. their due dates in a planner, Roche undergraduate and gradu- which type of class they felt that Their majors ranged from dance phone calendar or somewhere ate programs said they are cur- and performing arts to national See Learning Survey, else easily accessible. rently taking hybrid classes. Of security. Page 14 “It is recommended to start your more intense studying for exams at least one week in ad- vance,” she said. “In that time, consider setting up online study A guide to grad school sessions with classmates or tutors to discuss your own understand- By Kathleen Kenna ing of the material and to expand on areas you feel weaker in.” Contributing Writer That preparation time applies raduating at any time is to avoid entering the real world: taken math since 2016, this is to tests that allow students to scary. Graduating during apply to graduate school. horrifying. reference notes and books. At- a global pandemic is ter- Although it probably feels like The reading section includes kinson said students shouldn’t Grifying. a hundred years ago, we all re- learning hundreds of vocabulary assume that open note or open Although the unemployment member the process of applying words that no one has used since book tests would be easier. rate is slowly decreasing as the to college. You take a standard- 1847. “It’s imperative that you still economy tentatively begins to re- ized test or two, write an essay Luckily, many schools aren’t prepare ahead of time since you cover from the pandemic, the job about how cool you are, and try requiring GRE scores because of do not want to use your time for market is still not the most wel- to find teachers who like you the pandemic and limited testing the exam trying to find answers,” coming. enough to write a letter for you. availabilities. They made this de- Atkinson said. If I had listened to my father Applying to graduate school is cision after I took the test in June. Atkinson also urged students and studied accounting, I’d prob- basically the same, but for some Next you have to find the to practice time management ably be fine. Instead, I became reason 10 times harder. Granted, schools you are interested in. It’s skills and to avoid ‘all-nighters.’ an English major. When I told I never applied to any Ivy Leagues not just a matter of looking for “Create a consistent and struc- someone--whose name I won’t or 2% acceptance rate schools, a campus you like or finding a tured study schedule made up of reveal--that works at La Roche but I have a feeling even that pro- school with lots of frat parties. three to five, one-hour intense what I was studying, they said, cess isn’t this arduous. Here are For grad school, it’s important study sessions per day,” she said. “Oh, so you’re going to be a baris- the basics. that you find a program that’s “These study sessions would in- ta when you grow up?” Like applying to undergrad, perfect for you. clude reviewing and rewriting But I knew what I was getting many graduate schools require This involves finding profes- your notes, relistening to record- into. There is not a lot of room for you to take some sort of stan- sors at the schools who research ed lectures and reviewing previ- rich and famous English majors dardized test. For most schools, what you want to research and ous exams/quizzes to look for in our society. it’s the GRE. Like the SAT, it has looking at the courses they offer ways to improve, creating your So, I’ve decided to do what can a math, reading, and writing sec- only be described as the best way tion. If you’re like me and haven’t See Grad School, Page 14 See Study Tips, Page 19
Read more at courier.laroche.edu Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 3 On Campus St. Francis Peace Tackling tech Garden troubles By Julia Felton By Steven Munshower Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor-in-Chief
ith online and hybrid their technical issues arise. classes becoming the Though problems with tech- norm during the co- nology may be plaguing students Wvid-19 pandemic, students are more often this semester than in finding themselves spending more years past, the problems them- time on their computers – and selves, Gardner said, are largely encountering more technical dif- the same. ficulties. “Many of the issues, such as no David Gardner, La Roche’s as- wi-fi, are the same as from pre- sociate director of IT network vious years,” he said. “Often, we services and information tech- find something has been discon- nology, confirmed that he has nected or there is an issue with seen an increase in technical is- the Comcast modem.” sues this year. He cited the in- For students struggling with crease in online learning as the wi-fi connection issues in the reason for the spike in technology dorms, Gardner said there are a © Steven Munshower complaints. few tricks they can try. “Problems with connections If possible, he suggested con- to online classes are probably re- necting laptops directly into the ith finals week ap- Garden, can help break up the sponsible for the increase from Comcast modem using an Ether- proaching and pan- monotonous process of prepara- previous years,” he said. net cable. Each room has its own demic safety protocols tion. “I think the increase in online modem. Wstill in full effect, it is crucial to find Furthermore, this spot can classes causes many students to “Wired connections are al- a place to unwind. The St. Francis provide a brief refuge from the notice a slowdown or issue that most always better than wireless Peace Garden, located to the left of main campus, where social dis- they might have ignored or put connections,” Gardner explained, the Magdalen Chapel entrance, is tancing and masking are required. up with in the past,” Laird Cole, though he admitted it’s not always an excellent option. Click the link below to discov- online learning faculty support a feasible option. The stressful lead-up to finals er a peaceful area of our campus: and technology coordinator, said. For students who experience week can be mitigated by finding “The majority of the calls that issues specifically with Zoom, unique places to study. Finding actually are problems have been Gardner recommended using the a place, like the St. Francis Peace found, in many cases, to have network labeled “laroche” rather been ongoing for weeks before a than the one labeled “laroche- Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLrbk4y6f7s&fea student contacts support.” s e c u re .” ture=youtu.be Cole urged students to contact the Student Help Desk as soon as See Technology, Page 16 Writers’ Center offers in-person, online options for writing help By Kathleen Kenna Contributing Writer ike everything on campus, candy, the Writers’ Center is still with the Writers’ Center. consultant gives them written the Writers’ Center has open and is helping students in Online appointments are for feedback. This process can take adapted to online learning. new ways. students who would like to meet up to 24 hours, but most receive LIn past semesters, the center is The Writers’ Center offers in real-time with a consultant via feedback within five hours. These open every school day for in-per- three types of appointments this Zoom or WConline, the center’s appointments are helpful for stu- son tutoring, or as a place to com- semester. Students are still able to website. These are very similar to dents with a more completed plete schoolwork and study. make face-to-face appointments face-to-face appointments. On- draft. Many students would stop following social distancing and line appointments are especially Online and eTutoring appoint- in to grab a piece of candy from mask wearing guidelines. How- helpful for students that are in the ments are new to the tutors and the always-full bowl on the front ever, these appointments are lim- beginning of the writing process. the change was not without some desk, or to use the stapler and ited. Another option is eTutoring. complications. chat. Unfortunately, covid-19 (as There are two other types of In this kind of appointment, the it has with everything else) has virtual appointments that might student sends their paper or proj- See Writers’ Center, changed that. Despite the lack of look new to students familiar ect to their consultant. Then, the Page 18
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 4 Politics Biden elected president; Trump begins slew of lawsuits By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief
he Saturday after Election taken a slew of legal actions and ing the acceptance of mailed-in convinced that there is some rea- Day, the Associated Press Tweeted messages including “I ballots are typically determined sonable basis for concluding that predicted Joe Biden as the won this election, by a lot!” by the state legislature; the courts a re-count might bring a different Twinner of a contentious presiden- Dr. Joshua Forrest, the chair typically will not invalidate those result,” Forrest said. “Even so, it is tial race. While President Trump of La Roche’s history and politi- rules because the Constitution difficult to imagine that re-counts still refuses to concede, the presi- cal science departments, said it’s accords to the states the right to will bring a different result in dent-elect is already making plans “difficult to predict exactly what determine those rules in the first more than one or two states.” for his first days in office. will become of Trump’s legal ac- place.” Georgia and Arizona, where Biden’s win is historic – not tions regarding the election in As far as Trump’s claims of Biden won by razor-thin margins, only because a record 101.9 mil- any given state.” fraud, Forrest said his campaign could change with a re-count, lion Americans cast their ballots But he said it’s not likely that would have to produce evidence Forrest said. But it seems more before Election Day, according these legal battles will swing the of intentional voter fraud – and doubtful in states like Michigan to the Washington Post – but election. so far, he doesn’t seem to have it. and Wisconsin, where the differ- also because of his running mate. “Most election specialists be- In states with a close final tally, ential was wider in 2020 than it Kamala Harris is now the first fe- lieve that the courts are unlikely Trump may have a stronger case was in 2016. male, first Black, and first Asian to look favorably on his legal ap- to appeal for re-counts. Forrest Assuming Biden does take American vice president-elect. peals because of the weak legal cited Georgia, Nevada, Michigan, over the White House in Janu- Of course, Trump seems to basis for claiming, for example, Wisconsin and Arizona as states ary, Forrest said there are several remain unconvinced that Biden that mailed-in ballots received af- where a re-count seems plausible. and Harris will occupy the White ter Election Day are invalid,” For- “Even in those close cases, a See Election Reaction, House in January. He’s already rest explained. “The rules regard- judge would typically have to be Page 13 How do we treat women in politics? By Kathleen Kenna Contributing Writer
n October 26, the senate cism for supposedly sleeping her how the late Justice Scalia dealt and Consent on Campus, had her confirmed Amy Coney way to the top, women in politics with his nine children. Or, how own thoughts to offer. Barrett to the Supreme seem to always be lambasted for Justice Breyer kept his three chil- She tweeted, “I guess one of OCourt. She is the fifth woman in things that are biologically femi- dren in check, or if Chief Justice the things I don’t understand United States history to be con- nine but societally stigmatized. Roberts had a nanny. Meanwhile, about Amy Coney Barrett is how firmed to the Supreme Court. Bar- For Barrett, it’s the topic of her Justice Ginsburg claimed that as a potential Supreme Court justice rett joins two other women on the motherhood. a young lawyer she had to wear can also be a loving, present mom bench, Justices Elena Kagan and Barrett and her husband have baggy clothes to hide her preg- to seven kids?” Sonia Sotomayor. seven children, two of which were nancy to avoid being fired. The idea of a women not being Like everything in politics adopted from Haiti. This is a topic These kinds of questions are able to complete their job because these days, the decision is praised of much conversation. not just coming from curious of motherhood is an echo of cen- by one side, and criticized by an- Caroline Siegrist of the Wash- moms looking for the secret to turies of commentary from men. other. Justice Barrett takes the ington Post pondered this situ- success. According to The Wash- When women first fought for seat of the late Justice Ruth Bader ation in her piece, “What’s Amy ington Post, in one of Barrett’s the vote, men were mostly wor- Ginsburg. Coney Barrett’s child-care secret? confirmation hearings, Repub- ried about what would happen Many see Barrett as a foil to She should let us in on it.” She lican Senator John Neely Ken- if women got too many ideas of Ginsburg. It is true in some cas- considers how Barrett could have nedy of Louisiana asked this of freedom. es. For many controversial cur- gone to law school and continued her: “I’m genuinely curious: Who What would happen to the rent issues, including abortion, this career that led to the highest does the laundry in your house?” children left at home? Respons- healthcare, and gun rights, their court in the United States with so Barrett was able to laugh it es to Grigoriadis on Twitter are beliefs fall on opposite sides. many children and still be a good off. But how many times has that varied. Some praise her for her Despite their many differ- mother. question been asked of a male motherhood, some criticize her ences, there is one issue that they It turns out the secrets to Bar- Supreme Court Justice nominee? for being distracted. are both victims of: sexism. Of rett’s success are helpful family Since she was able to take it as a Either way, Trump has put her course, this is not new for any members and babysitters. While joke, Senator Kennedy respond- in a spotlight. A spotlight that woman in politics. Siegrist’s article seems to come ed, “Well, you are very impres- Ruth Bader Ginsburg said of this: From the first woman to run from a place of genuine curios- sive, judge.” “The pedestal upon which wom- for president in 1872, Victoria ity, it asks a question that is never These pointed comments do en have been placed has all too of- Woodhull, who faced criticism asked of men. Granted, none of not come from only male sourc- ten, upon closer inspection, been not only for being a woman, but the other current justices have as es, though. Vanessa Grigoriadis, revealed as a cage.” also as a supporter of “free love,” many children as Barrett. a journalist and author of Blurred to Kamala Harris, who faces criti- But there are no articles asking Lines: Rethinking Sex, Power,
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 5 Courier Call Hear the Courier Staff Answer the Question: What is your favorite Thanksgiving food?
My answer is plain old turkey! It’s a classic, and no other can dethrone the Thanksgiving king! -Steven Munshower, Associate Editor-in-Chief
Apple pie because I hate pumpkin pie but I have a sweet tooth. It’s got to be the stuffing. No contest. Turkey’s got nothing on stuffing. -Julia Felton, Editor-in-Chief -Sarah Hefferin, Associate Editor-in-Chief
My favorite Thanksgiving food is everything It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without the delicious my dad makes. I’m never actually getting turkey my mom makes every year! married so that I don’t have to share the holiday with in-laws because I only want my -Madeline Riccardi, Associate Editor dad’s cooking. -Kathleen Kenna, Contributing Writer
Interested in joining our staff?
The Courier is always looking for new writers and photographers.
Contact Julia Felton for more information on writing for the Courier.
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 6 Health LRU covid cases, quarantines low By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief ovid-19 cases at La Roche ter. One was a resident; two were demic Safety Officer Rosemary include those who are working remain low, as the number commuters. No faculty members McCarthy had reported 31 stu- remotely or who have not been of students in quarantine have tested positive for covid-19. dents in quarantine, though the on campus. Chas dropped. As of Nov. 9, the dashboard For updated information re- school had only one covid-19 According to the university’s reported nine students currently case at the time. garding La Roche’s covid-19 online covid-19 dashboard, there quarantined. Two were quaran- The numbers on the dash- numbers, visit https://www.la- have been a total of three cov- tined on campus and seven were board reflect confirmed cases in- roche.edu/COVIDcases/. id-19 cases among La Roche stu- quarantined off campus. volving students, faculty and staff dents throughout the fall semes- In early October, Chief Pan- who were on campus. It does not People turn to A strange tale of retail therapy eugenics found during pandemic on a flyer By Anna Kleinschnitz By Kathleen Kenna Contributing Writer Contributing Writer
e all indulge in a little According to Rachel Cruze at strange flyer was hung on against all of God’s command- retail therapy from Ramsey.com, the average Ameri- a telephone pole in North ments.” time to time. Buying can spends over $1,600 per year Park. The flyer describes The flyer, passionately com- Wa trinket or shirt we like is always on this habit alone. People be- Aa man’s apparent experience of posed, is rife with spelling errors a nice pick me up, but is it really come dependent on the rush of being trafficked and subjected to and exclamation points. He lived effective when it comes to perking dopamine given when in line to drugs and slavery in Ligonier, PA. his life as a “child prisoner fed up your mood? And how have we get your newest thing and, while The author of this flyer claims drugs and feared to barely leave as a community engaged in retail it does not last, the feeling can be he was bought by a family in Li- home.” Despite this treatment, he therapy over the course of this causing this life ruining addic- gonier that wanted a “smart kid.” was able to escape. pandemic? tion. He provides his background. The author claims he has had Retail therapy, according to This dependance on the quick- “I was bought for money to years of therapy, but, “therapy Google, is “shopping with the pick-me-up given by purchasing Ligonier PA from Germanic Eu- doesn’t alter your past and give primary purpose of improving a new item has been exacerbated rope because my family was Ger- you a family and friends, and nei- the buyer’s mood or disposition. by the troubling times we are cur- manic European and part Jewish ther does the FBI nor the police.” Often seen in people during pe- rently living in. A statistic shared with Nobel prizes in Germany His main problem now is lone- riods of depression or stress, it by Forbes shows that “many on- and England, being the Roths- liness. He claims he was never al- is normally a short-lived habit.” line retail categories saw an up- child-Citroen line.” lowed to go to the prom or any The definition describes this phe- tick in sales during March 2020 According the author of the fly- other events that a young person nomenon short lived and, when it (as much as a 74% year over year er, he was held captive, drugged, might want to attend. is short lived, how well does it do increase) compared to March and wasn’t allowed to have “I am forced to process all of to pick up someone’s mood? 2018”. That is a staggering differ- friends. He was forced to study this now alone at the age of 37,” he It actually does pretty well. In ence in just two years. to become a scientist. Apparently, claims. “I wish I could buy a fam- a published study referenced by Many of the items the busi- he was supposed to work for the ily and friends but you can only Forbes magazine, shopping can nesses sold were nonessentials, University of Pittsburgh until he buy kids, for some reason.” improve one’s mood and even things such as home goods and died, but was released when he He has apparently been in- fight off lingering feelings of sad- comfy clothes, to improve your finally refused this treatment. He doctrinated to the system he was ness and stress. But would you surroundings as you sat at home. claims they stole his children. But brought up in because he suggests think that shopping while sad in- Do not feel bad if you also in- he was awarded a PhD, and “in- that, maybe in addition to chil- creases the risk of impulsive buys dulged in retail therapy, around vented and discovered things for dren, a person should be able to that you regret? A look at the 43 percent of Americans have 24 years.” buy friends. same study shows that people are done the same over the last cou- The author provides an ad- He ends the flyer with a plea less likely to be upset about bad ple months. This is because buy- dress for the family he was pur- for company. “If you find yourself purchases because of its purpose ing items makes one feel more in portedly sold to. He was fed needing a friend too, send me an of mood-improvement. control and in our recent times, “smart drugs.” He was supposed email. Like the Fork’s Inn restau- Retail therapy might it can be hard to experience that to “become a genius scientist.” He rant in Ligonier I’ve never been be an easy way to perk up your feeling. claims he did. t o.” mood, but it is very easy to spend They forced him to have chil- The author provides his email too much and develop an ad- See Retail Therapy, dren and is “37 facing this insane and a link to his reddit account. diction that puts you into debt. Page 13 Nazi Eugenics dilemma, going See Eugenics Tale, Page 14
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 7 Faculty English professor to publish local poet’s literary biography By Sarah Hefferin Associate Editor-in-Chief
ot many can say that held education in a very high re- they’ve been friends with gard, inspired Hazo, and he went someone for over 40 to receive his undergrad from the Nyears. And not many can say that University of Notre Dame. He they’ve honored a friend by writ- went to obtain his master’s degree ing their biography. from Duquesne University, and Dr. Janine Bayer can. his doctorate from the University After decades of dedication, of Pittsburgh. friendship, and writing, “Before He began writing poetry dur- the Pen Runs Dry: A Literary Bi- ing his time as an undergraduate ography of Samuel Hazo,” Bayer’s student, and many of his poems biography on her lifelong friend are inspired by his time there, and and poet, will be published. It is during his time as a captain in the a uniquely written, almost genre- United States Marine Corps dur- breaking book, combining biog- ing the Korean War. raphy, autobiography, and poetry Hazo holds many honors, in- analysis into one, telling the ex- cluding the governor of Pennsyl- traordinary life of Pittsburgh poet vania’s Hazlett Award for Excel- Samuel Hazo. lence in Literature, the Elizabeth Dr. Samuel John Hazo was Kray Award for Outstanding born in Pittsburgh on July 19, Service to Poetry from New York 1928 to immigrant parents—a University, the Forbes Medal Lebanese mother and an As- from the Fort Pitt Museum, a syrian father from Jerusalem. Pittsburgh Center for the Arts Courtesy of Janine bayer His mother died when he was a Cultural Award, and a Griffin young boy, and he—along with Award for Creative Writing from Dr. Janine Bayer (right) authored Dr. Samuel Hazo’s biography, titled his brother Robert—were raised “Before the Pen Runs Dry: A Literary Biography of Samuel Hazo.” by their aunt. Their aunt, who See Bayer, Page 17 Professors react to student slang By Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor
a Roche professors turn when there is juicy gossip or into students by discussing “I don’t really think contemporary slang drama, particularly when shared which slang words they hear among friends. Laround campus, and what they be- really concerns me. I’m fine to let the ‘Tea’ was the least-widely lieve they mean. people who use it use it without my known slang word among the Young people across the world professors at La Roche, and five use slang words in their everyday interference or knowledge.” did not desire to know the defini- conversations. They use them in tion of it. situations that are inappropriate -Dr. Joshua Bellin Genest, however, was once for such use, like when talking or again able to define it, as “the gos- emailing with a professor. sip or what’s going on.” Currently, there are dozens of with it. “I don’t really think con- Dr. Maria Genest, Director of Similar to ‘tea,’ the word ‘fire’ popular slang words, but this ar- temporary slang really concerns the Honors Institute, said she dis- is a slang word used when some- ticle will be discussing five. me,” Bellin said. “I’m fine to let the likes the word ‘extra’ because she thing is really good, so good that ‘Extra’ is a common slang people who use it use it without has never seen it used as a com- one might describe it as crazy. word in the United States. Ameri- my interference or knowledge.” pliment. Sociology and International cans use it to describe someone or Bellin is not the only profes- When asked what she believed Studies Department Chair Azlan something that is overly dramatic sor who does not have a problem the definition of it to be, Gen- Tajuddin, although not an avid or over the top. with this particular slang word. est said, “to do something more user of slang himself, said he has Dr. Joshua Bellin, an English Of the 12 La Roche professors intensely or dramatically than heard students using the word department professor, has en- interviewed, seven were familiar needed.” ‘fire’ when talking to him. He dis- countered students saying ‘extra,’ with the word, and six did not Drama is highly common in but he does not have a problem have a problem with it. slang words. ‘Tea’ is a term used See Slang, Page 16
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 8 Clubs Students smash stress at Marketing Club’s Pumpkin Smash event By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief ith covid-19 restric- money to make personal care tions, a tense presiden- baskets for women who are going tial election, and the through chemo and radiation,” Wtypical stress of classes and jobs, Bowman said. students have plenty of frustration It’s a cause that’s personal to this semester. him. Thanks to the Marketing Club, “Raising money for breast they could take out those frustra- cancer is really important,” he tions on pumpkins. said. “My grandmother and my The club hosted their second great-grandmother both sur- annual Pumpkin Smash event, vived breast cancer and are still during which students could pur- living life to the fullest. I have chase a pumpkin to smash with been more than blessed to have baseball bats, golf clubs or a ham- such amazing women in my life, mer. and I think that it’s extremely im- “It’s a fun and exciting way for portant to help women and their students to get out their pent-up families who are going through stress from midterms,” Marketing these tough times.” Club President Tyler Bowman Marketing Club sold 30 pump- said. kins at their event, which Bow- Plus, the proceeds benefit a man spearheaded with the help of good cause. 13 club members. Marketing Club donated the “Getting to see all of the stu- profits from the Pumpkin Smash dents having fun while smashing event – along with half the pro- pumpkins was the most reward- © Julia Felton ceeds from their recent face mask ing part of it all. It felt like it was Sophomore Emily Graff smashed a pumpkin with a baseball bat during sale – to the Mrs. Claus Club, a an escape for reality for some and a Pumpkin Smash event hosted by the Marketing Club. nonprofit in the North Hills that that they haven’t been able to have benefits women fighting cancer. this much fun due to the current “They take donations and raise state of our world,” Bowman said. Marketing Club sells face masks for Mrs. Claus Club By Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor
he La Roche Marketing choose this particular organiza- Club held a mask sale dur- tion. ing the month of October “For me personally, raising Tto raise money for the Mrs. Claus money for breast cancer is really Club’s North Hills branch. important. My grandmother and The Mrs. Claus Club, North great-grandmother both survived Hills branch is a non-profit orga- breast cancer and are still cur- nization that makes and provides rently living life to the fullest,” comfort baskets to women in or Bowman said. around the North Hills who are Social Media Manager for the fighting cancer or going through Marketing Club, Scott VanGroo- chemotherapy. tenbruel, said that Bowman came All money raised for the Club up with the idea for the mask sale. go to the purchase of cookbooks, “The idea sounded unique be- mouthwash, candies, journals, cause of the strange time we are tea, gum, a prayer shawl, and in,” VanGrootenbruel said. more. Bowman however credited the Marketing Club President Ty- idea to his mother, Lisa Bowman. ler Bowman has a personal con- “She thought of the fundraiser © Madeline Riccardi nection to the fight against breast Carly Burett and Scott VanGrootenbruel sell masks for the Marketing cancer, which enabled him to See Mask Sale, Page 13 Club.
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 9 Good News Good news briefs you might’ve missed
By Kathleen Kenna Contributing Writer
midst the election and the the pandemic. One of the causes people who are afflicted with twice as habitable as they once pandemic, it’s hard to fo- for this rise in jobs is the slow re- drug addiction. According to As- thought. They haven’t uncovered cus on other things. Here’s covery of the food and drink in- sociated Press, instead of facing any specific planet, but there is Asome news you may have missed: dustry. jail time, a person who is carrying hope. The moon is wet. Sudan criminalizes female any of these drugs has the deci- North Korea bans smoking in According to NASA, for the genital mutilation. sion to pay a fine or attending ad- public places. first time, they can confirm that This country, categorized by diction recovery center. The As- According to United Press In- there is water on the moon. It’s Freedom House as Not Free, is sociated Press claims that 1 in 11 ternational, a law was introduced hard to know what this exactly ruled by an authoritarian regime. Oregonians is addicted to drugs. to prohibit smoking in many pub- means for us as humans. But, it However, they finally criminal- They hope that this change will lic places, like theaters, restau- does raise question as to what ized the act of female genital mu- lead to reduction in convictions rants, and public transportation. we know about the moon. NASA tilation. They made this act pun- and arrests. They believe that is North Korea has a very high rate is excited about this discovery. ishable by jail. a large step in changing criminal of smokers, and this plan is an at- They say that the Sahara Desert Canada announces plans to punishment to a more health- tempt to face public health issues. has about 100 times the amount ban single-use plastics. based solution. Gray wolves will be reintro- of water that they have detected This plan brings the coun- There might be other habitable duced to Colorado. on the moon. But, the discovery try closer to its commitment to planets. A ballot initiative in Colorado raises questions about deep space making its goal of achieving zero According to the New York proposed to reintroduce these exploration. plastic waste by 2030. The ban Times, there could be more wolves into the western part of The economy is on the rise. includes eliminating single-use than 4,000 hospitable planets. the state. According to National In October, U.S. employers plastics like plastic straws, bags, Through their Kepler spacecraft, Geographic, this is the first time added 683,000 jobs. According to and takeout container. NASA concludes that of the sun that a state has voted to bring an the New York Times, unemploy- Oregon decriminalizes pos- like stars in the Milky Way, many animal back into the ecosystem. ment fell to 6.9 percent. This is a session of heroin, methamphet- have planets surrounding them Gray wolves once thrived in the one percent lower than it was in amines, LSD, oxycodone, and that could possibly be habitable. Southern Rocky Mountains. This September. In all, the US has re- other hard drugs. While NASA is reluctant to truly initiative leads the state’s effort to covered about half of the 22 mil- The plan changes the way Or- estimate an exact number, they create sustainable population of lion jobs that were lost because of egon’s justice system deals with suggest that the galaxy is perhaps animals, starting in 2022. The Courier Staff Editor-in-Chief Julia Felton Contributing Writers Kathleen Kenna Anna Kleinschnitz Associate Editor-in-Chief Sarah Hefferin Courier Advisory Council Associate Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Pasqua Steven Munshower Sarah Reichle
Associate Editor Faculty Advisor Madeline Riccardi Ed Stankowski
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 10 Entertainment “The Trial of the Chicago 7” mirrors modern struggles By Kathleen Kenna Contributing Writer
“The Trial of the Chicago 7,” Redmayne, Mark Rylance, and point, the judge had him bound He also broke into meditation- recently out on Netflix, tells a sto- many more. The plot, while cen- and gagged in court for contempt. al chants many times, including ry of the late 1960s while echoing tering on the court case, address- Eventually, the judge declared his the Hare Krishna Mantra. Ac- the issues facing America today. es topics of activism, racism, and case a mistrial. The movie sticks cording to the New York Review, In 1968, during the Demo- a government reluctant to face a to history is most places, but does spectators were “startled,” and “a cratic National Convention in fervent youth. deviate, notably in the final scene. marshal leaped to his feet and Chicago, protestors flooded the The movie sticks close to his- The real trial featured instanc- flung his jacket open as if to reach city. This included groups like the tory for some parts, but deviates es that were maybe too surreal for his gun.” Youth International Party (Yip- for some drama. The actual trial to put on the big screen. For ex- Other highlights of the trial pies) and the National Mobiliza- included Abbie Hoffman, Jerry ample, poet Allen Ginsberg was include folk singer Judy Collins tion Committee to End the War Rubin, Tom Hayden, Rennie Da- the ninth witness to testify for the taking the stand. At one point, in Vietnam. The movie centers vis, David Dellinger, Lee Weiner, defense. Ostensibly, Ginsberg was she began to actually sing the around what is called the Chi- John Froines, and Bobby Seale as there to support Abbie Hoffman song “Where Have All the Flow- cago Seven, a group of anit-Viet- defendants. Many of the defen- and Jerry Rubin. ers Gone?” When the marshal man War protesters. They were dants did not know each other However, he stole the show in was finally was able to stop her charged with conspiracy and personally before the riots. a few ways. According to a 1970 the judge said, “We are not here crossing state lines with the inten- While the title of the movie article in the New York Review, to be entertained, sir.” tion of inciting violence. The trial references seven defendants, Ginsberg entered the court with The trial itself, including the lasted almost five months. there were originally eight. Bobby a “bouncing, cat-like gait.” Dur- defendants and the witnesses who The cast features actors Sacha Seale, a co-founder of the Black ing his time on the witness stand, Baron Cohen, Joseph Gordon- Panther Party, never had his law- Ginsberg recited his poetry along See “The Trial of the Levitt, Michael Keaton, Eddie yer present during the trial. At one with others’. Chicago 7,” Page 19 “John Wick: You’ll want to see Chapter 2” “The Invisible surpasses original Man” By Steven Munshower By Steven Munshower Associate Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor-in-Chief
“John Wick: Chapter 2” takes It is rare for a sequel to surpass “The Invisible Man” modern- eral unexpected twists and turns, every bold stylistic choice from the quality of the original. “John izes the classic H. G. Wells story, weaving a shockingly intricate the first film, and raises it to the Wick: Chapter 2” joins the ranks with striking visual effects, a tal- narrative. next level. “John Wick: Chapter of those prestigious films. Direc- ented cast, and a deep explora- “The Invisible Man” by H. 2” was released in 2017, by Sum- tor Chad Stahelski returns, and tion of current social issues. “The G. Wells is one of those stories mit Entertainment under Lion- capitalizes on the successes of Invisible Man” is a horror film seemed lost in time. However, di- sgate. “John Wick” had slowly the first film. The action is more released in 2020, by Blumhouse rector and writer Leigh Whannell gained popularity since its theat- intense. The world is further de- Productions, under Universal throws the character back into rical release. By the time the se- tailed. The characters are more Pictures. The film was a critical the mainstream with confidence. quel was released, audiences were dynamic. and box-office success, proving Whannell’s adaptation of Wells’ ready for more innovative action, Screenwriter Derek Kolstad that classic characters can have a original character is genius, stylistic camera work, and expan- returns to pen the increasingly place in modern media. adapting it perfectly for a mod- sive storytelling. The film did not complex script. “John Wick: “The Invisible Man” follows ern audience. He clearly had his disappoint. Chapter 2” goes deeper into the Cecilia Kass (Elizabeth Moss), a work cut out for him, consider- “John Wick: Chapter 2” picks world of assassins, and heavily re- young woman attempting to es- ing Wells’ novel of the same name up directly after the ending of the lies on the quality of its writing. cape an abusive relationship. One was written in 1897. first film. Formerly retired assas- Kolstad manages to ride a fine night, she decides to sneak out Whannell’s take on the story sin John Wick (Keanu Reeves) line between genre stereotypes of the house and run away. After deals with abusive relationships, attempts to return to normalcy, and unexpected innovations. He some complications, she man- specifically gaslighting, and how after tying up a loose end from introduces several new dynamic ages to successfully get out with that can impact a victim’s san- the first film. However, when a characters, that help enforce the the help of her sister. However, ity. The film also shines a light shady figure from his past arrives scale of the society being ex- two weeks after her escape, her on how society reacts to these at his door, it becomes clear that boyfriend, Adrian Griffin (Oliver perhaps Mr. Wick is in too deep See “John Wick: Chapter Jackson-Cohen), is found dead. See “The Invisible Man,” to return to his retired life. 2 ,” Page 13 From there, the film takes sev- Page 18
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 11 History The La Roche Courier thanks our veterans and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice fighting for American freedoms. The following stories are pieces from a creative nonfiction class that pay tribute to two Vietnam veterans. Remembering a Reflections from Vietnam veteran Vietnam
By Steven Munshower By Julia Felton Associate Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief
The subject of this story is de- democracy. In Vietnam, the Viet s Robert Leroch gazed ignore the fear. “You just put fear ceased. Handwritten letters and Cong proved to be a dangerous out the window, he saw out of your mind,” he said. “You sources close to the subject, recall- enemy, as they used guerilla tac- streaks of white reaching reacted to the situation. Your ing distant memories, provided the tics and often preferred to torture Aup toward the plane. training came. Instinct just took included information. The story their enemies rather than simply “Oh look, they set fireworks off ov e r.” has been reconstructed to the best kill them. The conflict between for us,” the guy next to him said. At 18, Leroch didn’t fully com- of my ability, but some creative lib- the Communist and American But those weren’t fireworks prehend the magnitude of war. erties have been taken. forces involved all branches of welcoming them to Da Nang. “We didn’t know what war was,” ichard David Beck sat in American military. That was the North Vietnamese he said. the back of a 141 Starlifter Rich hadn’t always planned to trying to shoot down their plane. But he had to learn—fast. military transport plane join the Navy and end up on that After an 18-hour flight, -Le Rheaded towards Philadelphia, plane full of death. He went to roch landed in a foreign country The Marines deployed for Pennsylvania. The plane was leav- high school and graduated with armed with a rifle, bullets, and 13-month stints. During those 13 ing Vietnam, where the tall, broad good grades. He had one older jungle fatigues. months, they’d alternate between shouldered, thick eyebrowed, Ger- brother, one sister, a mother, and “I was scared to death,” he said. a month in combat and six-day man, Native American Indian had a father. When Rich was still in When asked if he was ready for breaks in the relative safety of just spent the last two years fight- high school, his brother got ex- what was waiting for him in Viet- base. ing. The roar of the plane engine tremely ill and died in a hospital nam, he simply replied, “No.” Real military combat isn’t like was dull and mind numbing. His bed. He left Rich enough money what you see in the movies, Le- head hung low and the harsh smell to go to college, seeing his im- Leroch was 18 when he en- roch said. You’re not trying to be of chemicals invaded his nostrils. mense potential. However, the listed in the Marine Corps. He a hero. You just do what you have Fellow soldiers surrounded money was left in Rich’s father’s didn’t enlist for any ideological to do to stay alive. Rich. They didn’t speak. They name. reasons—not to save the world When they were on base, Le- didn’t talk about how excited they Rich never saw any of that from communism’s spread or be- roch appreciated the time to rest. were to get home, about the wom- money. His father spent it all. He stow democracy upon our Viet- “You slept; you ate. It was a nor- en waiting for them, or about the claims that he spent it on necessi- namese brethren. He enlisted mal day,” he said. things they had done and seen. ties and raising Rich. Regardless, simply to escape his drunken, There was entertainment on They couldn’t. They were all dead. Rich was left with no chance to go abusive father, who refused to base. Leroch enjoyed the sports. Rich was being sent home with to college. At this same time, ten- support his dream of becoming a Many of his friends drank. He a group of war casualties. Really, sions in Vietnam had risen. Two social worker. never did—and still doesn’t. A the only difference between them U.S. destroyers took North Viet- “This was my way out,” he said. lot of guys got into dope for the was Rich wasn’t in a coffin. The namese fire, and President John- He reported to boot camp at first time. Leroch never did that war took longer to kill Rich. His son wanted to put more troops in Paris Island on January 26, 1967. either. heart was beating, lungs filling the country. It was around then The strenuous physical demands Life was different off the base. with air and pushing it out, blood that Rich enlisted in the Navy. of bootcamp didn’t bother him. “When you were out in the jun- flowed through his veins. It was also around that time The discipline, the order, the regi- gle, you didn’t have showers, you He was alive, but a part of him that Rich met the love of his life. mentation—that was what Le- didn’t have fresh water, stuff like had forever died in Vietnam. Rich met Donna Sieminski back roch needed to master. that,” Leroch said. He spent the near twenty- in the seventh grade. However, “It broke you down and then The discipline and regimen- four-hour plane ride alone with the two weren’t romantically in- built you up,” he said. tation they had instilled in boot his thoughts, those coffins, and volved until after their high school After boot camp, Leroch went camp became much more lenient. the dead boys in them. He gazed graduation. One night in 1964, to Camp Lejeune for four weeks “In Vietnam, you weren’t spit at the pristine reds, whites, and Donna, Rich, and their friends all of jungle training. and polish. You could have your blues of the flags draped over headed to their local Eat’n Park. He was on a fast-track to be hair a little long. You didn’t have them and his mind filled with Rich parked his friend-packed deployed to Vietnam, where over to have your uniform all nice,” Le- a guilty dread he knew no one two-tone green Chevrolet Bel Air, 8,000 Americans had already roch said. would ever really understand. and an employee roller-skated been killed. Leroch and his team—which According to the National Ar- over to them to get their order. “You expected to be dead at consisted of about twelve men— chive, “58,220 U.S. military fatal The friends began talking 21,” Leroch said. His drill in- were mainly responsible for what casualties” occurred in the Viet- while they ate their food. All the structors had drilled that into they called search and destroy. nam War. The war itself is part of guys had gotten out of the car and their heads—they’d all die in the The concept was simple: search the much larger Cold War, a war leaned against it. The girls stayed jungles of Vietnam. for the enemy and destroy them. based upon the conflict of prin- But once he landed in Da ciples between communism and See Beck, Page 21, 22 Nang, Leroch trained himself to See Leroch, Page 20, 21
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 12 Farewell to a graduating senior The La Roche Courier congratulates the university’s December 2020 graduates – and in particular, Kathleen Kenna, a contributing writer.
By Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor
veryone graduates from friendships, especially that in Dr. for the Courier after she entered a Novel Writing Month participant somewhere at some point. Jessica Ganni. 2019 contest hosted by the paper. said. “A lot of my friends went to This fall, Contributing “She welcomed me into the “I entered on a whim, with abso- schools in college towns, joined EWriter Kathleen Kenna is gradu- Writers’ Center and has taught lutely no training or experience a sorority, and every weekend ating from La Roche, and every- me a lot about myself, writing, with journalism and that style of would post pictures of them go- one in the Courier staff and Eng- and teaching,” Kenna said. “A few writing,” Kenna said. “I really en- ing to frat parties. For a while, I lish Department are going to miss days ago, I was telling my mom joyed writing my first article, and felt like I was missing out, but at her. something that happened in the my recent piece about the history La Roche I met great people and Kenna has been a literature Writers’ Center, and I said, ‘my of pandemics.” learned a lot.” major at La Roche University friend Jess.’ Then I was like ‘wait History is among Kenna’s fa- As her time of learning at La since she transferred here from no she is my boss.’” vorite subjects, especially in class- Roche comes to an end, Kenna Kent State in 2017. Since then, Ganni is not the only person es at La Roche. “I think I’m a huge looks forward to her graduation. she has contributed to the Cou- Kenna has something special to nerd, and I was definitely into the She said, “Graduating is pretty rier, served as an editor for La say about. “Dr. Bellin has been class American English: Its His- scary. I have decided to try to Roche’s literary magazine, Nu- such a good professor to me,” tory and Development more than just make the best of things, and ances, and worked as a Writers’ the peer counselor said. “He is so everyone else, but it was absolute- I think everyone else should too. Center consultant. supportive, and this is my first se- ly fascinating to me. Dr. Jordan is “I have been thinking about Thinking back to her time at mester that I do not have him as awesome,” Kenna said. how I would feel if I were the La Roche, Kenna remarked that a professor for at least one class, “Issues in American Literature same age during WWII, or the her favorite place on campus was which is very sad to me. His class- II with Dr. Bellin is one of my fa- 1918 Pandemic, but human- the Writers’ Center. “There are a es inspired me to become serious vorite classes. We read a few of ity will preserve, unless a meteor lot of places I like outside,” the about my academia.” my favorite books and poems,” takes us out like the dinosaurs.” Sigma Tau Delta member said, Kenna said her academia is Kenna said, “and some of the Kenna did not want to gradu- “but in the past few semesters, I important to her, and that “I am lectures he gave were absolutely ate without saying a special thank have spent so much of my time hoping to go to grad school. I electric. One class he talked about you to a few professors. “I would in the Writers’ Center. I camp out would like to either become a Romanticism evolving into Mod- like to acknowledge specifically there all day and make people professor or a starving poet. I ernism, and it was the best lecture Sister Rita, Dr. Lumley, Professor visit me there, even when I am can never decide what I want to I ever had.” Stankowski, and Professor White. not on the clock.” do with my life, so I am applying Lectures are a big part of the They have supported me in dif- Kenna enjoys Writers’ Cen- to various programs like English, school experience at every col- ferent ways, and I want to thank ter to the extent that her favor- American studies, and writing.” lege, but La Roche has a unique them,” Kenna said. “I would ac- ite memories on campus are Writing is a significant part of social status, according to Kenna. tually like to acknowledge every any time that she was “hanging Kenna’s life, even if she did not “You don’t have to have the professor I have ever had here be- around” with her friends there. work in the Writers’ Center. She stereotypical college experience cause I liked them all.” Her time there has sparked discussed how she began writing to learn and excel,” the National
Messages to Kathleen Kenna
“I always appreciated Kathy’s ceptive and outspoken, but because my freshman year. I’ve enjoyed get- and knowledge in general. Having humor and honesty in her writing. she loves to learn. In class, she kept ting to know you over the past few taught for more than half a century, On behalf of the Courier, we’re all everyone--including me--on their years and all the times we’ve spent I cherish students such as Kathleen. very appreciative of her contribu- toes by refusing to settle for easy together. Good luck to you in your I know that one day she will get her tions and we will miss having her answers, while outside of class, she grad school program- you are the graduate degree, and I hope I live on our staff. We wish her the very always looked for opportunities to brightest student I know, and you long enough to read the book that best!” – Julia Felton grow, whether by attending author are going to accomplish amazing I know is already brewing in her “The first time I met Kathy, she lectures or by participating in our things! I don’t know who will go brain. I am proud to have helped instantly reminded me of Jennifer campus novel-writing group. I’ll be to the North Park Lounge twice her in a small way toward that jour- Lawrence. Kathy is sweet, intel- sad to see her leave La Roche, but in one day with me now, but so it ney.” – Sister Rita Yeasted ligent, and a beautiful person in- I expect to hear great things about goes.” -Katie Friend “I can’t recall a single time that side and out. I got the chance to her in the future.” – Dr. Joshua “Kathy has been a joy to work Kathy promised something and know Kathy better as we became Bellin with at the Writers’ Center. I am didn’t deliver. I think that sounds coworkers at the Writers’ Center. “Kathleen has become one of my going to miss joking around with superhuman, and it is probably I know that she will go on to do greatest inspirations and friends. her, her keen fashion sense, and es- inaccurate (because who could amazing things, and I want to wish Not only is she a constant light in pecially our talks about poetry and achieve such a thing), but I can’t her the best of luck in everything my life, she inspires me to always life.” – Lindsay Bennett recall a moment to the contrary. that she does! We will miss you! do better, work harder, and read “I haven’t known her for very Yet, I am sure Kathy will remem- Best wishes.” – Lucia BouDargham more! I will always appreciate her long, but I do know that I will miss ber and can name moments when “I love Kathy! Kathy is such willingness to help me, whether it’s her. Kathleen, you are a kind and she would say she messed up. That an amazing and talented writer. I with MLA format, my photography awesome person who has always is because she’s critical of her own have been so lucky to read some of project, or my boy drama. She’s like been super helpful and welcoming performance in the way you’d ex- her stuff throughout the years that a wise old owl trapped in a 22-year- to me, and for that, I will always be pect from someone who takes re- I have known her! She’s an awe- old woman’s body. She’s constantly thankful. I am going to miss you.” – sponsibility for their commitments some person all around and I re- teaching me things, telling me fun Madeline Riccardi and wants to continually improve ally can’t wait to see her succeed in facts, and is always supportive.” “What I think I have always and learn over time.” – Jessica her future!” – Taylor Ellis -Sarah Hefferin loved most about her is what I sel- Ganni “Kathleen was a joy to teach, not “Kathleen, you were one of the dom see in today’s students: an in- only because she’s bright and per- very first friends I made at La Roche satiable curiosity about the world
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 13 Mask Sale, continued from page 8 after buying masks from her co- just as supportive.” worker who has been selling them Even though the club sold at the hospital where they work,” masks designed specifically to Bowman said. “She was more support those with breast cancer, than happy to supply us with all they had a range of patterns that of the handmade masks.” changed daily. The Mask Sale has been a suc- Burdett said that their three cess, according to VanGrooten- most popular patterns were “the bruel’s estimation of over 100 turkey pattern, Breast Cancer masks sold. The Marketing Club Awareness pattern, and Steelers sold the masks for $10.00 each mask.” and donated half of the profits to Bowman agrees that those are the Mrs. Claus Club. the most popular patterns, but According to VanGrooten- he admitted that there could be bruel’s estimation, the Marketing change. Although he originally Club raised $500 for the organi- scheduled the mask sale to end on © Madeline Riccardi zation. Oct. 31, he has extended the sale. The Marketing Club sold masks as a fundraising event. Senior Club Member Carly “We will continue to sell our Burdett also believes that the sale masks until Nov. 12,” Bowman was a success. She said, “I do be- said. “We received more Thanks- lieve it was successful because giving and Christmas patterns Retail Therapy, we managed to raise money for a that will be great as gifts for the good cause. Every little bit counts, holidays. The Christmas masks continued from page 6 even if we would have raised $100 that we just received are snow- So, what do we do to stop have picked out. This is doubly or $5,000.” man or Santa Claus with poinset- this dependance on our favorite effective because not only does When asked who the success tias on the inside layer.” mood lifter during a serious life- it cut down on what you buy, was due to, Bowman said it was Bowman says he is eager to changing event? Synchronybank. it makes you feel better about both the students and faculty of keep selling masks. “I think that com gives us a few good sugges- what you do end up purchasing La Roche. Bowman said, “Our it is extremely important to help tions when it comes to control- because you genuinely thought faculty has been wonderful with women and their families who ling our spending habits. They about it. helping us promote our fund- are going through tough times,” encourage you to try and shop at Lastly, they encourage you to raiser by telling other colleagues Bowman said. local businesses, so that if you are reach out and get support from about it. Our students have been going to spend your money it is either the people around you or also helping those who are really from a medical professional. A struggling right now. support system can help you re- They also encourage you to sist the need to shop to feel in Election Reaction, leave your item in the shopping control and connect you to those continued from page 4 cart for a 24-hour period to deter- you are closest to. mine if you really want what you policies he’ll likely try to enact Forrest pointed to broader quickly. Among them are a new policy changes on topics re- covid-19 strategy and rejoining garding taxation, federal bud- the Paris Climate Accord. Biden get spending, infrastructure and “John Wick: Chapter 2,” has also said that he’d end the federal aid for college students as construction of the border wall measures that would require bills continued from page 10 along the U.S.-Mexican border to be passed by Congress. and establish new rules to allow “In the event that the Sen- plored. Kolstad also introduces Chapter 2.” This time, John fights DACA children to remain in the ate remains under the control of some much-needed dark humor, through New York garages, U.S., enable families to apply for the Republican Party (as seems mostly surrounding the power of Rome’s catacombs, and intri- asylum without waiting in Mexi- likely), there is indeed likely to the titular character. cate art galleries. These locations co and eliminate the policy of ex- be policy gridlock for at least the Keanu Reeves delivers an- clearly distinguish the fights, and pelling unaccompanied children first two years of the Biden presi- other brilliant performance, that lead to some truly unexpected from the country. Biden also dency,” Forrest said, noting that a confirms nobody else could have moments. The choreography is claimed he’d end the immigration third of Senators will be up for re- played the part. This is largely in vastly improved, making every ban from a number of Muslim- election in 2022. “The Senate will part to his dedication to training. fight feel like a melodic ballet of majority countries, Forrest noted. be able to block Biden’s legislative Reeves underwent further tacti- stunt men. Those policy changes, Forrest proposals, and Biden will be able cal training, making the action The soundtrack by Tyler Bates said, would likely be executed via to veto the Senate’s bills.” even more believable this time. and Joel J. Richard takes many executive orders, meaning Biden If Democrats would win con- The audience is able to buy into familiar themes and genres, and wouldn’t need support from Con- trol of the Senate in 2022 – with the insanity, knowing that Reeves modifies them to fit the “John gress. local Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) is actually doing most of the jaw Wick” universe. The wonderful But other measures would re- retiring and likely creating a heat- dropping stunts. soundtrack ranges from western- quire cooperation from Congress ed race for his seat – Biden would Reeves’ former “The Matrix” inspired showdown tracks to – which could slow Biden’s plans, have more opportunity to pass co-star Laurence Fishburne joins electronic bass-heavy beats. Each as the Senate seems likely to re- legislation during the latter half the impressive cast, and gives a song is precisely placed to reflect main under Republican control. of the term. great performance. His character the action, character moments, is older and more experienced and tone. than John, and helps show the “John Wick: Chapter 2” proves “In the event that the Senate remains extensiveness of this society. Ian that a sequel can surpass the orig- McShane delivers another fantas- inal in many ways. It is a film that under the control of the Republican tic performance as Winston, an respects the foundation set by executive of sorts. Lance Reddick the first, but innovates wherever Party, there is indeed likely to be a policy also returns, and despite getting it can. The end result is a mod- slightly more to work with, is ul- ern action classic, that fans of the gridlock for at least the first two years.” timately underutilized. genre will undoubtedly enjoy. -Dr. Joshua Forrest Once again, the action scenes take center stage in “John Wick:
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 14 Learning Survey, continued from page 2
teach myself, I may as well find the book online, not pay the school for the class, and just teach myself,” an undergraduate stu- dent said. Hybrid classes may be more popular than purely Zoom cours- es, but in-person classes are by far the most popular on campus. Fifty-nine percent of La Roche students say that they have learned the most this semester in their in-person classes. “I learn better in person. Al- ways have, always will. In-person gives me the ability to see my pro- fessors and talk with them. I’m also more productive,” a sopho- more biology major said, “and pay attention in class. I like being able to participate and actually be face-to-face with my professors.” © Madeline Riccardi A senior undergraduate stu- dent said, “I learn better in a The survey asked which type of class students they feel they learned the least and the most in. This infographic classroom with face-to-face in- shows the number of participants who chose each type of class. teraction and without the distrac- tion of technical difficulties.” Students cited technical dif- they are learning the most. The into class if they are quarantining Hybrid classes on campus ficulties frequently as the reason respondents had the options of or unable to make it to campus. also rely on Zoom. The structure they preferred in-person classes hybrid, online, and in-person. Zoom is not popular among of these classes at La Roche is to the most. Of the 72 respondents, Those who responded de- the respondents of the survey, have half the class in-person dur- 26 said that they believed com- scribed where they learned the as 45 students said they found ing one class session while the puter or internet problems were most: Zoom distracting or difficult to other half uses Zoom. Those in- keeping them from learning ef- • 59 percent in in-person use. An 18-year-old freshman person and those on Zoom then ficiently. classes said, “I don’t engage that much switch for the next class session. “It is hard to focus when the • 25 percent in hybrid class- online and tend to drift off a little La Roche students favor hy- class is online,” a sophomore ex- es more than I do in person.” brid classes. “I have been thank- ercise and sports science major • 18 percent in online class- Not every student on campus ful for the hybrid option,” a junior said. “Some professors encounter es has a dislike of Zoom. A fresh- undergraduate student said. “I am many technical difficulties, par- Classes come in many different man management major said, a parent with two children, and it ticularly with Zoom. This delays types this semester, each depend- “Sometimes I find it hard to pay has saved me from missing any of the start of class and can affect ing on a variety of factors. Classes attention during online classes, my classes.” what we do and don’t learn.” on campus can be structed as in- but I enjoy being in the comfort “I prefer to have hybrid. If I person, but students may Zoom of my room during them.” had classes where all I did was
Eugenics Tale, Grad School, continued from page 2 continued from page 6 very carefully. Most schools pro- and assistantships. You really I can stop being the only nerd in vide pictures of their faculty, so have to prove to grad schools that all my classes because grad school Upon further inspection, his red- you can pick a school with all hot you’re worth their investment. programs are basically all the dit account is mostly a collection professors if you want. They won’t Most applications for the fol- nerdiest, most annoying people of him posting his theories of life quiz you on it, but they do expect lowing fall are due in December in your classes shoved together. and quantum physics on various you to talk about it in the essay or January. So, if you are thinking Heaven. scientific subreddits. He also tries you have to write for them. about going to grad school in Fall If you’re applying to grad to share this story to those who This essay is called a state- 2021, you are already behind. school, good luck. You deserve ment of purpose at many schools. disagree with him on said sub- Even then, most schools won’t more education if you want it. You get around 500 words to tell reddits. decide if they want you until the You are worth the investment to schools why you are amazing The flyer also contains a following spring or summer. I am their program. And, if anything, graphic that shows a tree labeled and what you want to do at their graduating in December, so I’ll school. you are worth their admission “eugenics.” The roots of the tree just spend all of 2021 with chest fee. are labelled with different sci- It’s a lot of pressure for such a pain until I finally hear from a ences that supposedly feed into short paper. Mine are especially school. this practice. There is not a lot of scary because, since I am apply- I can never decide what to do research done about eugenics in ing for writing programs, I actu- academia-wise (I even became an Ligonier, especially that of Ger- ally have to show them good writ- interdisciplinary studies major to manic European strain. ing. avoid making a choice) so I’m ap- Although an archaic way of Next, you have to call in every plying to many different kinds of spreading news, this flyer tells a possible favor with every profes- programs. Hopefully, the schools compelling story. Hopefully the sor you’ve ever had so that they’ll will make the decision of what to author can reconcile with his write you a letter of recommenda- do with my life for me. past of being “bread and sold like tion. In some cases, you have the In all seriousness, I am really dogs” and can find justice. option to apply for scholarships excited to continue my education.
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 15 Inclusion Forum, continued from page 1 they’re not mature either. They don’t have mature ideologies and that’s very different from terrorist groups.” Likar went on to explain that usually, these people are mini- mally educated men who don’t possess any underlying ideas of sophistication. However, one of the biggest hate groups in the news right now is the militia groups in America, which Likar explained posed an even bigger threat. “Their basic foundation is very rational,” Likar said. “If you’re watching the confirmation hear- ings about what we look to for justices on the Supreme Court, there’s an ideology of looking at the Constitution, called original intent.” © Madeline Riccardi Original intent, or originalism, Lawrence Likar spoke with students, faculty and administration during an inclusion forum event hosted by is the belief that the United States the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Constitution should be interpret- ed by those in power under the One of the most recent cases in our society that hold those be- have these groups, but their con- same mindset as those who origi- was that of the militia group in liefs. This includes new Supreme nections to the Second Amend- nally wrote it. Likar explained Michigan and the attempted kid- Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett. ment and to hate is what makes that originalism is a major belief napping of Governor Gretchen They differ from bias offenders them a huge threat. of these militia groups. Whitmer. Sources say that three because they: “It’s not unpopular to be pro- “That belief has spread quite of the men accused often attend- • Have a poor work perfor- militia,” Likar said. a bit in the United States, and is ed “boogaloo events” and anti- mance Likar said that these young quite possibly the main ideol- lockdown protests. Boogalo is a • Often suffer from a men- men are violent, and feel that they ogy on the Supreme Court today,” term that the group uses to mean tal illness are the true keepers of the faith of Likar said. “civil war,” according to Business • Often suffer from sub- the Constitution. Often, they find Many council members also Insider. stance abuse these groups give them a purpose agreed with Likar, citing the orig- Fox News attended a protest • And usually have a crimi- and a chance to bond with other inalism belief as a toxic trait for that was hosted by the militia nal background likeminded people. And they are the country. group “American Patriot Council” Because they are originalists, fueled by hate. This year has espe- “If we look at originalism, at the Michigan capitol in April. Likar says that they feel that the cially been hard, with the shoot- women didn’t have rights, Black In the same article by Business Constitution gives them the right ings of Black Americans and the people didn’t have rights, and Insider, they said that the group’s to take armed-action and defend protests in response. we’ve moved on from 1776. But mission is to “restore and sustain themselves if they feel their rights For students of color, they felt we still have people in power who a constitutional government in are being infringed upon by the personally connected to the ef- still believe in originalism, even the United States of America,” government or other organiza- fects that hate groups have had on though our society has grown. which is written on their website. tions. This, according to Likar, is the country. Before we had an actual army or In every image that featured more involved than bias offend- Jalen Achilles, another stu- national guard, we had people them, they could be seen wield- ers. dent at the council said: “The first (with their own guns) but we’ve ing large guns and wearing bullet- “They’re not just doing ran- time I remember an example of grown so that we don’t need that proof vests. Eight men eventually dom crime,” Likar said. “They are this was when I was in the fourth anymore,” student Natasha Flor- were charged with threatening focused, more than anything, on grade when George Zimmerman ence said. to overthrow Michigan’s govern- the government.” shot and killed Trayvon Martin. Florence believes that inter- ment and kidnap the Governor. So why is this a problem? Every day, (the police) vow to preting the Constitution in this Likar himself did research on Likar explained that, as they protect and serve but Black citi- way could do more harm than one of the groups in Michigan evolve, they think they have the zens’ lives are being taken on a good, potentially spread more as he was writing his book. Likar right to join police and confront consistent basis and it’s been like hate. said that at the time, groups could protestors. He notes that they of- that since I was 8 years old. For Militia groups themselves are be racist and anti-police. But, ten see police as the arm of the a decade, it’s been the same thing founded on those ideas. This in it- he warned that these groups are government, and as a threat to over and over again. I’m not say- self makes the militia group more changing. them. By joining the police, they ing that it’s hard to sympathize literate, as they have been able to “They have co-opted. Mem- feel that they are attempting to outside of your race, but some read and analyze the Constitu- bers of police departments and make the police their friend. people really don’t know what it’s tion, which sets them apart from military members have been basi- This most recently can be seen like to be a Black person in Amer- basic bias offenders. cally joining these groups. It’s not with the Wisconsin shooting, in ica.” But, when militia group ideas a sweeping movement, but you’re which 17-year-old Kyle Ritten- The Diversity and Inclusion are interwoven with the ideas of finding these groups and types of house fatally shot two protestors Office will continue to have these bias offenders, Likar said it makes members that are drawn to them,” following the shooting of Jacob forums as a way to educate oth- them even more dangerous. And, Likar said. Blake, who was paralyzed from ers and discuss solutions on these because of their views on the Because of this and their over- his injuries. Rittenhouse felt it topics. As a result of Likar’s pre- Constitution, Likar noted that all population base, there is a po- was his duty to protect businesses sentation, it spurred a 45 minute they are heavily connected to the tential for police and judges to be from protestors, even though he conversation by members of the Second Amendment. swayed on their behalf, accord- lived in Illinois. council, in which they discussed He went on to explain that ing to Likar. They are threatening And overall, the militia group solutions, and ways to combat these members of the militia because of their numbers. Likar ideas are shared with those hate in the La Roche Community groups are very experienced with said that that way of thinking is in power, including President and the United States. weapons and recently have even extremely difficult to ascertain, as Trump, whom Likar describes turned to explosives as ways of there are very prominent figures as pro-militia. There is a right to expressing their beliefs.
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 16 Campus Scenes
© Caroline Maxwell
Slang, continued from page 7 Technology, continued from page 3
cussed a time in which a student 90 seconds. Youth slang loses its But the “laroche” network Each dorm room or suite has told him that their brother’s car impact when older people use it.” does have some disadvantages its own wired Comcast modem. was ‘fire.’ Like any inexperienced Adults using youth slang compared to “laroche-secure,” The white box on the wall in each slang hearer, Tajuddin said that terms is not something that six Gardner said. dorm room is a wireless access he “thought [the car] caught on of the interviewed professors “The downside to this is you point that connects to the mo- fire.” think is appropriate. English de- cannot connect to any La Roche dem, Gardner explained. Theodore Rectenwald, a visit- partment professor Dr. Michelle websites or on-campus services. Though technically prohib- ing professor said that he did not Maher said, “I don’t try to use my Since ‘laroche’ is an open net- ited in the dorms, many students have any particular feelings for students’ slang. That would be work, the traffic between your bring their own wi-fi routers the word. “I do not really have an weird.” device and the wall AP (access- into their dorms, hoping to get aversion to [it],” Rectenwald said. Although professors like Ma- point) in your room is susceptible a stronger or faster connection. “I am, by avocation, a philologist, her are not willing to use the to snooping,” he said, though he But, according to Gardner, they so I tend to accept the evolution terms, some are open to it. Tajud- claimed it shouldn’t cause a prob- could be slowing down the wi-fi of language as inevitable.” din appeared open to using slang lem on Zoom classes. Students for neighboring rooms. Bellin, while not necessarily in the classroom. can simply switch back to the “Anytime there are multiple a fan of the word, said that ‘fire’ “I can see myself using ‘extra,’” “laroche-secure” option when not wireless devices in close proxim- means “really awesome.” Tajuddin said, “in a class discus- using Zoom. ity to each other, there is a chance Professors at La Roche do not sion on wealth, power, and pres- “Never do anything requiring of interference,” he said. “The have to be overly fond of a word tige inequalities.” privacy such as secure banking further apart the APs are, the less to know what it means. Dr. Linda He went on to discuss other on any open network,” Gardner interference there will be. An ac- Jordan, an English department slang terms, including the word added. The “laroche-secure” wi-fi cess point in one room may or professor, said “I could define ‘yeet.’ Young Americans use this is secure and safe from snooping, may not have significant impact most of [these slang] words in particular slang word commonly he said. on an AP [in] another room.” their usual usage.” when one is discarding some- Though some students com- For students facing technical She went on to discuss the thing, whether words or objects, plain of poor wi-fi connection difficulties on campus, Gardner term ‘shade,’ a term used to de- at a high speed. around campus, Gardner said recommended contacting the scribe when someone uses casual Of the word, Tajuddin said, students should see “very good Student Help Desk at 412-847- disrespect toward another. She “‘Yeet,’ if used in exclamation, is coverage in all the areas served by 2300. hit the nail right on the head, as what it sounds like when a kitten the campus network,” including Cole said students can also she said, “‘shade’ is a subtle insult had just got its tail stepped on – all the classrooms and common contact him directly at Laird. or criticism, usually not direct or I’ve accidentally done that once areas outside the residence halls, [email protected] or 412-847- verbal, as in ‘Barack Obama is a before.” as well as Bold Union room and 2360. master of shade.’” Mahler lounge. On the term ‘shade,’ Jordan There are 95 wireless access went on to say, “‘shade’ is used points on campus, according to on political twitter about every Gardner.
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 17
Bayer, continued from page 7
the University of Notre Dame. He She would get the backstory and and then transitioned to teacher. the grief he was feeling, because also holds more than 10 honorary end up telling the story of Hazo’s All of chapter three is about it gave him an opportunity to talk doctorates, and was chosen as the life and work through these po- Mary Anne: their courtship, about the happy times with his inaugural Pennsylvania poet lau- ems that he selected. marriage, and birth of their son. wife and their son. reate. Hazo liked the idea because Chapter four focuses on the po- In addition, it often was a chal- Throughout his life, he has he said that the biography should etry forum, followed by Mary lenge because the two looked at taught, spoke, and been a mentor be a story, rather than some big Anne’s illness and eventual death. the book thematically, rather than to many. One of those includes heavy analysis. The two were set Bayer said that they ended chronologically. Bayer was often Bayer, whose story and eventual to start picking the poems a week Hazo’s life story with chapter five, faced with a mountain of tran- biography of Hazo spans decades. later. and that six and seven focus on scripts and had to make sense of It was the 80s, and Bayer was a Then tragedy struck. Between the analysis of Hazo’s themes that how they should be written in the sophomore at Duquesne Univer- the two scheduled meetings, his poetry focuses on, as well as book. sity. As an English major, she was Hazo’s wife Mary Anne was diag- his poetic technique and develop- “It was a massive challenge—it required to take a poetry writing nosed with dementia. ment through the years. took me thousands of hours. It workshop and attend poetry fo- “I’ve never seen a couple like As they developed each chap- took me thousands of hours of re- rums. That was the moment she Sam and Mary Anne,” Bayer said. ter and the project grew, Bayer search, travel, and organization,” met Hazo. “Sam decided he wanted to take knew she needed more time, so Bayer said. “I had piles of things “After the first (forum) I was care of her full time and so he she eventually applied for and everywhere so I could visually see completely hooked,” Bayer said. didn’t want anyone around while received a sabbatical. She hired things; it was very challenging to The poetry forum and Hazo she was sick. And for eight years, interns to help her with research figure out what the organization became huge influences in Bay- we put the book on hold.” and to create a website to house to be.” er’s life almost immediately, and Mary Anne died in 2018. And Hazo’s poems and biography. Those thousands of hours of stuck with her as she continued shortly after, Hazo had asked And most importantly, she con- recordings meant that there were her education. Hazo was one of again if Bayer was still interested tinued to write. thousands of hours of informa- the few that inspired her to want in writing the book. She finally finished the book in tion. Bayer said that, arguably, to teach as a college professor. From that point on, the pair the fall of 2019, and reached out determining what shouldn’t have Hazo was a big reason Bayer didn’t stop working on the book. to Franciscan University Press, been in the book was harder than switched from law to teaching, For two years, Bayer researched, who had been a fan of Hazo and determining what should have essentially redirecting the course interviewed, and wrote. Bayer has his work. The head editor loved been. of her professional life. hundreds of hours of interviews the book, and so did her other “By the end of two years, when As Bayer went straight from and transcripts of the interviews readers, but they suggested ad- you’re meeting with someone ev- her undergraduate to her gradu- between herself and Hazo. ditional edits. Bayer called upon ery single week, you’ve got a lot of ate degree at Duquesne Universi- “Once Sam started talking, he La Roche University professor material,” Bayer said. ty, she earned the position of grad just talked and talked and talked,” Dr. Adria Kelleher, for her help in But having an abundance of assistant, and taught a freshman Bayer said. “We realized that, the editing the book. They worked all material made it worth it. The English course. For one of those eight poems that we originally through Christmas break to get book itself will feature Hazo’s two years as she earned her de- started with—we needed to add the book ready again for publish- poems, accompanied by the in- gree, Hazo was her mentor and more. And the project started ing and, she considers Kelleher to terviews with Hazo, Bayer’s own eventually became a friend. growing and developing and it be her saving grace. writing, and countless photos. Hazo taught her some of the soon became clear that this proj- Bayer’s book was then resub- Bayer said that her goal was to most valuable skills and advice ect wasn’t just going to be a small mitted this past February. How- simply share Sam Hazo with the on how to teach. And then, after story about his life; it was going to ever, due to the pandemic, the audience, to explore the life he graduation, Bayer was able to go be much more expansive.” press did not accept her book un- lead and the philosophies that he on and teach at State College and When a topic was determined, til October. They plan to publish held. then in Cleveland. Even when she such as teaching or family or his it soon. “At its very heart, it is a story briefly held a corporate commu- time in the war, Hazo would pick This is Bayer’s first time writ- about Sam Hazo,” Bayer said. nications job, she continued to out a poem that he felt best rep- ing a biography, and considers it “When you read this book, you teach adjunct positions at Cleve- resented that topic, and Bayer to be a different type of biography will know Sam Hazo.” land State University and at Lake- would expand upon it. She would because of the dual voices that After decades of knowing land Community College. read and study the poem so that come through. Hazo, writing about Hazo, and Seventeen years later, in the she could know the poem inside “I’ve never written a biogra- then finally finishing the book, late 90s, as soon as Bayer came and out. phy before; I think biographies Bayer said the process didn’t back to Pittsburgh, she started From there, Bayer would ask are generally boring. But the cool mean she was just learning about visiting with Hazo again. And Hazo for his process: what in- thing about the book is that it’s a him. She was learning more about Bayer asked Hazo if anyone had spired him, how he wrote it, and new genre. It’s a literary biogra- herself. written his biography before. what it represents. phy, but it’s not a scholarly anal- Bayer said: “I learned that the He said no and that biogra- Bayer said, “So much of his ysis—it’s more of a story. Sam’s primary motivating factor for phies aren’t that exciting. But that poetry really just comes from his voice is in it. This is very much a writing this book, as Michelle Ma- never dissuaded Bayer. life experiences, and he says it as first-person account because so her so beautifully put it, (was that So each time Bayer met with it happened.” much of Sam is in it because of it was) ‘a labor of love.’ I wanted Hazo, she asked if she could write As each poem was connected the interviews,” Bayer said. to do it for Sam. I love Sam. He is his biography. And each time, he to the next, it became bigger and Bayer said that, because she somebody that I looked up to, re- said no. better. It became Hazo’s entire life and Hazo were such great friends, spected, and admired since 1980, One day in 2008, after Bayer story. it made the research, interview- and the fact that I could do this had asked Hazo about the biog- The biography begins with his ing and writing that much easier. about him and for him made me raphy again, he finally decided family in Lebanon and tells the But often, due to his loss of Mary so happy. So any day that I felt to discuss the possibility. He told stories of what he was like as a Anne, there were times when in- discouraged or tired, I’d think to Bayer that if she could make a young boy. Bayer said she used terviewing could be an emotional myself, ‘I’m doing this for Sam.’ If biography that didn’t look schol- flashbacks to talk about Hazo’s process. love is your motivating factor, you arly and analytical that everyone life with his aunt and brother af- “A really hard part of this was can pretty much do anything.” would be bored with, she could ter his mother’s death. that I was with him every single make it happen. The next chapter discusses his week for these interviews, and it They decided on a format that scholarship and time at Notre was agonizing,” Bayer said. “He allowed Hazo to pick some of his Dame, because it had such an im- was heartbroken.” most pivotal poems that Bayer pact on his life as a poet. It is fol- But Bayer believes the book would then interview him about. lowed by how he became a marine allowed Hazo to work through
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 18 Mum’s the Word “The Invisible Man,” continued from page 10
victims, highlighting the difficul- ties they often face. This is done with expertise, never forcing it to happen. Rather, the film unfolds naturally, which helps convey the message Whannell is trying to get across. Elizabeth Moss gives a ca- reer defining performance as a tormented individual, whose strength and perseverance en- able her to put up a fight. Oliver Jackson-Cohen is perfectly despi- cable, despite having a minor on- screen presence. When Moss and Jackson-Cohen are together, the film fires at all cylinders, deliv- ering a mix of quality acting and nail-biting tension. Aldis Hodge delivers a layered performance as James Lanier, a father and close friend of Cecilia. Hodge’s character gives the film some much needed levity, and stands out as particularly mem- orable. Michael Dorman plays Tom Griffin, brother of Adrian Griffin. Dorman’s character is surprisingly complex, largely due to his performance. Dorman adds a level of subtlety to the charac- ter, making his scenes much more engaging to watch. “The Invisible Man” features some extremely clever special ef- fects. While there is a slight over- reliance on computer generated effects, the film wildly succeeds in this department. The complicat- ed special effects were achieved mostly with an actor in a green screen suit. This permitted tan- gible interaction for the actors on set, and enabled the invisibility of the titular character. The film is also an exercise in © Madeline Riccardi patience. Whannell exercises ex- tremely effective hesitation with his script, slowly building to cli- Writers’ Center, continued from page 3 mactic events. This helps audi- ences relate to Moss, questioning the legitimacy of every scene. This “I’ve found the online ap- ers’ Center is meeting people “We have found a way to turn technique aligns with Whannell’s pointments to be just as efficient from different backgrounds,” said things around and Zoom with updated vision for the character, as the in-person appointments Bou Dargham. students, which is the next best placing audiences in the same po- we’re used to,” says tutor Kather- “The Writers’ Center is so thing,” said Bou Dargham. sition as the victim. ine Friend, a junior Professional much more than a place for stu- All the tutors are ready to help, “The Invisible Man” is a per- Writing and Journalism major. dents to turn to for academic even if it can’t be face-to-face. fect modernization of a classic However, she admits that the help, it is a place where friend- “It’s true that we miss seeing character, technological mile- social interaction is not the same. ships are formed and a familial everyone, but we are all in this to- stone, and immensely satisfying “A huge part of being a writ- bond is established between the gether and we at the center are al- film. Fans of the genre will be ing tutor is connecting personally tutors and students.” ways there for anyone that needs surprised by the clever scares and with the students and that defi- While the switch to online us,” Bou Dargham said. unpredictable narrative. Those nitely doesn’t translate as well on tutoring has had its difficulties, As the end of the semester ap- not traditionally interested in screen versus in person,” Friend Writers’ Center staff are handling proaches, the Writers’ Center is horror will likely find merit in the said. the transition well. open and ready to help students. surprisingly powerful social com- Lucia Bou Dargham, Writers’ “I’ve been pleasantly sur- Jess Ganni, the Writers’ Center mentary. “The Invisible Man” is Center tutor and senior Profes- prised by how efficient working director, encouraged students to a film worth checking out due to sional Writing and Journalism on Zoom is,” said Lindsay Ben- reach out for any kind of help. its strong narrative, talented cast, major, also misses the face-to- nett, Master Writing Tutor. She Email her at Jessica.ganni@la- and perpetually important mes- face connection with students. assures students that online ap- roche.edu or visit the center’s sage. “One of the things I love the pointments are just as effective as website laroche.mywconline. most about working at the Writ- in-person appointments. com.
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 19 SGA, continued from page 1
“I haven’t heard back from “We realize that this is some- ral would represent the idea that with La Roche Academic Vice anyone yet about issues regard- thing we really want to do and we black lives matter, but would not President and Senior Provost Dr. ing what they received,” Polacek want to make sure it’s something be affiliated with the actual orga- Howard Ishiyama. “We talked said, after sending the budget to we’re actually physically able to nization. about how happy we are to make club presidents. “I mentioned do for the school. Take into ac- Francis said he wanted to fi- it to almost the end of the semes- that should they use up all their count the price and everything nalize a proposal for the project ter with very, very, very minimal money, there is the unallocated going on,” she said. before his next meeting with uni- cases. We’re very appreciative of part, as well as certain grants.” Top ideas so far included reno- versity President Sister Candace that, being able to stay on cam- David Day, director of student vating the gazebo next to Schnei- Introcaso. pus,” she said. development and an SGA spon- der Hall and constructing a Red- “Sister Candace does have She said they also discussed sor, said that there are engage- hawk statue on campus. knowledge of the mural and it the outlook for spring semes- ment and travel grants that cover Day suggested they create a would be pretty awkward going to ter, which included eliminating expenses like going to conferenc- survey to gauge which of those another meeting with Sister Can- spring break to discourage stu- es. He noted that the budget SGA options students would prefer. dace without anything to pres- dents from travelling without proposed is meant to cover op- “You can put it out there to ent,” he said. time to quarantine before return- erational expenses, but big-ticket the student body once you clarify Individual SGA members also ing to campus in the midst of the items can be funded through his some of your visions for it,” he worked toward their own goals covid-19 pandemic. office. said. “Let the students decide for the remainder of the academic • Jared Woods, director of The board also began plan- and see what they think would year: athletics and intramurals, said he ning their annual SGA project. be best. At the very least, work • Rochelle Selzer, director was having a hard time planning Florence explained that they had to gain input from students so of clubs and organizations, said intramurals with the school’s cur- $3,000 for the project which is de- that you’re making decisions with she held a round table meeting rent covid-19 restrictions. “We’ll signed to allow the group “to give them in mind.” for club presidents, which went definitely do something in the something to the campus.” The board also continued dis- “pretty good – just not many peo- spring when we can plan out bet- Florence said she wanted to cussions regarding installing a ple showed up.” Selzer said she ter and there’s warmer weather,” vote on a project idea by the end Black Lives Matter mural on cam- planned to hold another before he said. “It’s getting cold right of the semester. She encouraged pus, which SGA Executive Vice winter break to discuss plans for now and inside stuff is hard with everyone to consider ideas that President Amiel Francis said he the spring semester. restrictions.” were feasible and would benefit believed would make the cam- • SGA Academic Vice Pres- the La Roche community. pus feel more inclusive. The mu- ident Riley Polacek said she met
“The Trial of the Chicago 7,” Spring Outlook, continued from page 1
continued from page 10 ties, which may be in short supply a traditional classroom environ- thanks to the pandemic. ment. Ishiyama said the uni- testified, seemed to fight against remove these robes, they revealed The university still plans to versity is addressing concerns the very ideals the youth of that that they were wearing police hold an in-person commence- with new teaching modalities by time were battling: the Man and uniforms underneath. ment ceremony on May 8, Ishi- implementing a new position, the Vietnam war. Despite the trial becoming al- yama said. Director of Instructional Design. Five out of seven were convict- most comedic at some points, it ed for inciting riot, but all were was extremely poignant. The de- acquitted of conspiracy. During fendants represented a revolt that the trial, the judge sentenced all was at a boiling point. “It could look very different than what of them for many sentences of While the release of the mov- has been done before and will largely de- contempt of court. The judge is- ie was initially postponed due sued a total of 175 citations for to coronavirus, it conveniently pend upon the virus, but we will do ev- this. One of the instances that re- comes to us during time it mir- sulted in contempt of court was rors: full of turmoil, revolt, and a erything we can to retain the community Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin youth population trying to fight atmosphere regardless of methodology.” reporting to court wearing judges back. robes. When they were forced to -Dr. Howard Ishiyama
continued from page 2 “It could look very different Ishiyama said Dr. Michaela No- Study Tips, than what has been done before, akes will fill the role. own study guide, etc.” For students with essay exams, and will largely depend upon the “She will be assisting faculty Organization, Atkinson said, Atkinson recommended writing virus, but we will do everything through the rest of this semes- is paramount both before and the essays elsewhere and copying we can to retain the community ter (and next semester) as they during a test. and pasting them into the online atmosphere regardless of the prepare their courses for spring “Before the exam starts, you exam. That method allows for methodology,” Ishiyama said. semester to enhance remote stu- will need to know when to log easy editing, she said. Even if the ceremony is altered dent engagement and learning,” in and how long you are allotted Students should also click the or cancelled, graduating seniors Ishiyama said, adding that she to take the exam and if you have ‘save’ button often if applicable, will be able to purchase caps and will continue to teach in the in- multiple attempts. As always, she said. gowns and they will receive their formation systems technology alert your instructors of any tech- “Stay motivated while you honor cords. department, too. nical issues (in the moment, not continue to take ownership of With hybrid and online cours- For students who struggle with after the fact). Check all your your personal and academic suc- es still offered in the spring se- hybrid and online courses, Ishi- work before submitting your test cess,” Atkinson said. mester, Ishiyama also addressed yama encouraged them to turn or project,” Atkinson said. student concerns regarding the on their cameras during Zoom new learning platforms. classes and ask questions. In September, a Courier sur- Students should also click the ‘save’ vey revealed that nearly 80 per- cent of students believed they button often if applicable. learned less in online classes last spring than they would have in
Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - November 13, 2020 20 Leroch, continued from page 11
“You’d go out and look for the the Americans. Sometimes the mail brought by then, it was almost a fact of North Vietnamese or the Viet Despite the hostilities, Le- happier tidings. “For Christmas, life.” Cong. You’d go and you’d try to roch would go to the orphanages my mother sent me a little live The men who died in Viet- sort out who was there,” Leroch armed with hard candy to feed pine tree,” Leroch reminisced. “I nam were transported back to explained. “The guerrillas would the Vietnamese children through got a picture of it at home where the States on what they called the stay and fight. The North Viet- the fence. we decorated it. Christmas was a Freedom Bird, a Pan Am with namese Army would retreat most big holiday for us.” metaled up windows. Leroch re- of the time until you got them in Leroch went to Vietnam as a But holidays weren’t always sa- membered watching them load an area to fight.” lance corporal. Two combat pro- cred. the caskets. “You knew they were motions later, he left the Corps as Tet marked the Vietnamese coming home,” he said. Leroch reminisced on a scene a sergeant. New Year. It was a major holiday he’d seen unfold several times. Leroch is humble about his for the Vietnamese, so the Ameri- After his 13-month deploy- A group of American soldiers service. He calls his two combat cans offered a ceasefire. ment was finished, Leroch was of- were standing together, probably promotions “being in the right “We were going to honor them fered the chance to go home. He talking about the lives they left place at the right time.” by not fighting during Tet,” Le- decided to volunteer to fight for behind in America or the enter- They were under fire. “The roch said. “Well, the next thing six more months. tainment that they’d get to enjoy sergeant was ahead of me,” Le- you know we’re getting rockets “I had no reason to come on base next week. Some of them roch said. “He got injured. So I thrown at us and bullets shot at back. I had nothing at home,” had lit cigarettes hanging out of just took over—naturally.” us—and we can’t shoot back.” Leroch said. At that point, his their mouths, the scent of ciga- Leroch’s actions that day In moments like that, Leroch girlfriend—who now happens to rette smoke mingling with the earned him a promotion, but said he felt the politicians or- be his wife—had broken up with odor of men who hadn’t seen a that’s not what he was thinking chestrating the war from the U.S. him. He wasn’t eager to return to shower in up to three weeks. about in the moment. He said he didn’t even know what they were an abusive father. He figured he A young Vietnamese boy ap- was only concerned with finish- going through. might as well stay and keep fight- proached them slowly. ing the mission. “We were in a For the Americans, there were ing. They watched him with suspi- firefight. I was just calling, ‘Come rules for war. They had to honor In total, Leroch spent 19 cion, as if he were a stray animal months fighting in Vietnam. He that might be rabid. The Ameri- received two combat promotions. cans had developed a learned dis- “We couldn’t do a lot of what they could He lost two friends. trust of the Vietnamese. They’d watched civilians shoot at them do to us. It’d be like me spitting on you When Leroch flew back to as thanks for offering food in the United States, no one tried to their villages. They’d watched the and you can’t spit back. They’d throw shoot down his plane. But they Vietnamese man who worked as weren’t shooting off celebratory a barber on the American base stuff at us. They’d shoot at us. You’d go fireworks either. join the North Vietnamese in a into a village and give them food and you They landed in Los Angeles, ground attack against the very still outfitted in their uniforms. men whose hair he’d cut the day come back the next time and they’d shoot “I got in a fight with a kid because before. In Vietnam, even a young he spit on me,” Leroch said. child couldn’t be trusted. you.” While Leroch had been in the “GI, look, I got something jungles of Vietnam under fire, for you,” the boy said as he came -Robert Leroch people back home were lighting closer. fire to their draft cards. While he He was grasping something on, let’s go, let’s go.’ It was just in- the ceasefires. They didn’t target was watching his fellow soldiers tightly in his little hand. He kept stinct,” Leroch said. women and children. They tried die, students were protesting war his fingers curled around the Once he became a sergeant, not to destroy temples. on their sheltered college cam- mysterious present, his knuckles Leroch was forced to overcome But the Vietnamese didn’t puses. While he’d been fighting turning white. his shy nature. He strived to be fight by the rules. “We couldn’t for America, his fellow Ameri- He waited until he was just a good leader—though he said it do a lot of what they could do to cans began turning their backs on close enough before unfurling wasn’t always a job he particularly us,” Leroch said. “It’d be like me him. his fingers to reveal the gift he’d enjoyed. spitting on you and you can’t spit Leroch wasn’t looking for rec- brought for the American sol- “I tried to do it fairly—like I back. They’d throw stuff at us. ognition or accolades when he diers. wanted to be treated,” he said. “I They’d shoot at us. You’d go into came home. But he did want to A hand grenade. wanted to be one of the guys.” a village and give them food and be treated with decency. He threw it at the soldiers, in- But Leroch did want to look you come back the next time and “You don’t have to kiss my juring or killing everyone there— out for these men. They fought in they’d shoot at you.” butt or kiss my feet because I was including himself. small units that became families. there. But just acknowledge I Perhaps that explains why Le- “It’s a bond. Brothers. You would Over 58,000 Americans died in was there. We did what we were roch had such difficulties trusting do anything for them—anything,” Vietnam. But those men weren’t told—whether it was right or the Vietnamese. He said he only Leroch said. just statistics. They were fathers, wrong,” he said. ever trusted one Vietnamese man The men bonded over the sons, brothers, friends. They had during the war. extreme circumstances of war. lives waiting for them back home. In 1971, Leroch found him- “We had a guide who was Viet- They bonded over watching men They had dreams they’d never get self spending his nights in a hot namese,” he said. “He was always die. They bonded over struggling to fulfill. tent he pitched in the woods once with us and he was always out in through combat together. Two of those men were Le- again. But this time, he wasn’t in front. You learned to trust him.” But they also bonded over roch’s friends. Vietnam. He was serving in the Leroch insisted he never felt simple things, like mail. “You’d One overdosed on base. “We Army Reserves. much of a bond with the Viet- get a letter from home, saying found him with the needle still in “When I went into the Re- namese. The American politi- your mom died. Well, you can’t his arm. That was devastating,” serves, it was young people that cians may have had lofty notions do anything about it,” Leroch Leroch said. needed help. I helped train about how the Americans were said. “So, we’d try to sympathize The other got shot. them,” he explained. “I helped there to save the Vietnamese with him, try to get him to forget. “You get angry,” Leroch said. teach these kids what I knew. I from communism and deliver You went through all the emo- “But it’s not like on tv. You got to taught them how to survive.” them to the light of democracy. tions together.” keep going. The medic will take When his military career final- But in reality, most Vietnamese “Dear Johns were the worst,” care of him you hope—in that ly came to an end, he retired as a people Leroch encountered hated he added. case, he couldn’t. It’s sadness, but master sergeant.
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These days, Leroch doesn’t Sometimes he still struggles. think much about the war. He “For people like us, it’s too late. Just don’t “I still won’t go to fireworks,” has a complicated view on poli- he said. tics, which involves a firm belief repeat it to the next group.” Leroch never got help to cope that Nixon was the best president. with his PTSD. He joined a prayer He blames politicians for los- -Robert Leroch group instead. ing the Vietnam war, but he also He felt like the nation he defends their decisions. “I don’t served never tried to help him, But most of the time, he’s not the only memories Leroch keeps disrespect them. They think never supported him. People concerned with politics or wars. from the war. they’re doing right,” he said. hated him when he came back. During the summers, he spends But he brought home some- Now, he’s a staunch believer Leroch’s story isn’t unusual. time on his farm. In the winter, thing else from Vietnam that in exercising civil liberties. He’s Over 500,000 Vietnam veterans he has the perfect white beard he still carries with him today: proud to boast that he’s voted in suffered from some form of post- and sparkling blue eyes to play PTSD. every election since he got back traumatic stress disorder. Their Santa Claus. The government that sent him from Vietnam and he encourages struggles were augmented by the to Vietnam didn’t provide him everyone to be educated voters. hatred they faced from their own A boxing trophy. A promotion the support he needed to come He also urged people to re- nation when they returned home. plaque. The blanket he stole off back from Vietnam. He struggled spect the flag, the office of the “For people like us, it’s too the Pan Am plane that brought with his emotional demons. He president, and the government in late,” Leroch said. “Just don’t re- him home. The scapular he wore struggled to acclimate to civilian general—even when the institu- peat it to the next group.” in Vietnam. Those are some of society. tions aren’t perfect.
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sitting in the car. Rich looked was moving. Surely, it was a Viet is how much of a good time I had Marcella said. Five years later, around at them all, pausing on Cong ambush. Rich scanned the with you and what it will be like Andrew Beck was born. Andrew Donna, then continuing. After river’s edge, bracing for a gun- after we are married.” He then would cry and yell as a baby, but some hesitation, he said, “I’m fight. Then, the bushes broke, and recalled a moment when they Rich had a talent for calming leaving for the Navy tomorrow. the contents were revealed. played the song “Donna” on the him down. Donna remembers, Someone gonna write to me?” Rich would have preferred a radio and how his head filled “He could calm him down. There Donna, before any of the other gunfight. with thoughts of her. A couple of was this lady that would bring girls could get the chance, quickly A small child, timid but mov- months later, Rich wrote, “Well her baby to Rich just to get him responded, “yeah, I will.” The two ing forward, emerged from the two years and three and one half calmed down. He always had time smiled at each other, and Rich’s bushes. The fragile boy had an months is all I have left then I’ll for kids.” When Donna worked plan had clearly worked. explosive strapped to his chest. say so long to this stinking outfit. evenings, Rich would play hide Rich saw the men yelling at the I just hate everything keeping us and seek with Marci and Andrew. The USS Caliente naval sup- child, poking their rifles in the air ap ar t .” Andrew took after Rich and was ply boat moved carefully up the to intimidate him. Then, one of Two years and three and one inspired by his father’s actions. maze-like Mekong Delta. Several them yelled louder. Rich wanted half months later, Rich returned Donna recalls “Rich was my soul- soldiers with M16 rifles scanned to look away but couldn’t. The home to Donna. He had every- mate and my best friend. He was the land on either side of the river boy kept advancing towards the thing ready in his duffel bag: all a good father and a good man.” for any movement. Rich, in uni- ship. He heard a single metallic the letters Donna had sent him, During this time, Rich bounced form, watched the boat’s radio for shot reverberate through the air. the ring he planned to give her, from employer to employer, seek- any activity. Rich did not have a The boy, whose life had just barely and his uniforms. However, when ing a job. He was often rejected, weapon like the others, as he was begun, dropped to the dirt where he set down the bag for a brief being told that he wasted his time an Electronics Technician. It was in the Navy. One employer even his job to ensure clear communi- said that his Electronics Techni- cation between his ship and the Rich, in uniform, watched the boat’s cian degree was worthless. He troops they were delivering am- ended up selling insurance and munition, rations, and other ne- radio for any activity. Rich did not have worked as a night security guard. cessities to. In time, Rich got a job he was sat- Rich also ensured clear com- a weapon like the others, as he was an isfied with. He worked in an air- munication with his hometown Electronics Technician. It was his job to plane construction plant in Texas. sweetheart, as was promised. However, after the company lost Over the past year or so, Rich had ensure clear communication between his their contract, Rich was laid off. fallen wildly in love with Donna. Rich later became the manager of Donna felt the same, but still, ship and the troops they were delivering a toy store, but the store closed af- Rich worried she wouldn’t wait ammunition, rations, and other ter some time. Finally, Rich ended for him. However, after a lengthy up with a secure job working for letter lecture from her, he was necessities to. a local church. The patrons grew sure. Rich wrote back, “Thanks to love him. for the lecture and I’m convinced Despite having a decent job you love me. I don’t know how his corpse would remain. moment, someone ran by and and the family of his dreams, I am living without you it is the The men lowered their rifles. stole it. Rich attempted to chase something troubled Rich. Maybe worst thing I ever had to do.” He The boat kept moving. Rich didn’t the suspect, but he lost the thief. it was those boys on that plane or had come to call her “Donut.” But look back. This setback did not prevent perhaps the child from Vietnam. “Donut” was a distant dream for Rich endured back to back Rich from proposing to Donna. Nobody knew for sure, but some- Rich. tours in Vietnam. He was on a The two promptly got married. thing was off. Rich tried to avoid Rich stood by the ship’s radio boat headed back to the states Rich’s Vietnam dreams had now talking about Vietnam at all costs. and looked out at the soldiers when they transferred him to a become reality. In time, Rich and When Donna attempted to talk to on the deck. He observed their boat going right back to Vietnam. Donna became parents to Mar- Rich about his experiences, Rich movements. One pointed. The He found comfort in Donna’s let- cella Beck. Marcella was “Rich’s responded, “I don’t want to talk others brought their notably un- ters during his tours. In one of his buddy,” Donna remembers. The about it. I want to forget it.” reliable M16s to their shoulders. earlier letters, Rich said, “They two of them did everything to- “The whole time we were mar- There was a faint mumble among make me feel about 20 feet tall gether, from homework to games ried, he didn’t like the parades, them. Rich followed the barrels of and on cloud nine.” to shopping. “He was seriously the noise, the planes. He didn’t their rifles to the edge of the land. Rich thought about Donna of- the greatest father. He was amaz- like being in crowds,” Donna re- The bushes swayed. Something ten. He wrote, “All I think about ing. He taught me so much,” calls. He hated the dull, droning
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sound of the plane engines. It proceeded to grab his shotgun startled something within him. Rich had become increasingly depressed and walk to the basement. In that As the years passed and the basement, 21 years later, the war children got older, Rich battled and struggled with post-war life. The killed Rich. with many internal issues. Donna said, “I don’t think they even had thoughts, memories, and feelings from Epilogue a name for PTSD back then. Rich Vietnam haunted his brain at every Donna remembers. Marcella never went anywhere for that and Andrew grew up without kind of help.” The understand- moment. They lurked around every their father. Donna recalls a con- ing of mental health issues was versation with Andrew. As he sat rather limited at the time, and he corner, waiting to remind him of those in the basement, he looked at her, was never offered the appropri- and said, “I’ll never know my dad ate help. The culmination of these coffins on that plane. The guilty dread he as an adult. I’ll never know him feelings occurred when Rich knew no one would ever really the way you people knew him.” found out about a local parade Donna never re-married. She celebrating Vietnam Veterans. understand came back, stronger than couldn’t. Rich was her one true Rich was watching the news love, and he was gone. Things when he saw the notice of the ever. These thoughts consumed Rich. He would never be the same. Rich’s event. He looked at Donna and story had concluded, but it wasn’t said, “They spit on me when I had become convinced that people were finished. came home and told me I wasted spying on him. The time had come for the fu- my time serving my country, and neral. It took place at the church now they want to honor me after he worked at, and the entire build- twenty years and I want no part of ing was filled with people. Donna it.” His face was drained of color. ery moment. They lurked around ing the football game and folding looked at Rich in the coffin and A single, broken tear streamed every corner, waiting to remind laundry. Rich had stopped tak- said, “you just look so much at down his face. He hid this from him of those coffins on that plane. ing his pills, saying that they cost peace and I hope you’re at peace.” Donna quickly. She hugged him, The guilty dread he knew no one too much money. Rich looked at It was a look she had not seen but the thought corrupted his would ever really understand Donna and said, “I feel so much for eight months now. Reflecting mind. “That was the switch. That’s came back, stronger than ever. better. We’re gonna have a better back on her lover, Donna said, when he changed. Things went These thoughts consumed Rich. y e ar.” “When I get to heaven, I’m gonna downhill from there,” Donna re- He had become convinced that The next morning, Donna and beat the shit out of him and then members. Rich sat with Donna, people were spying on him. “He Rich lay in their bed. Marcella give him a hug.” tears in his eyes, and said, “I don’t got so depressed he wouldn’t get and Andrew were sound asleep want to remember.” out of bed,” Donna recalls. in their beds. Rich got up at 5am, Rich had become increas- Rich was eventually admitted before everyone else, and his head ingly depressed and struggled to the psychiatric ward. He was began filling with those terrible with post-war life. The thoughts, released after a couple weeks, with memories and that horrible guilt. memories, and feelings from a prescription to take daily. Two All the good had left. He was left Vietnam haunted his brain at ev- months later, the two sat watch- with only negative thoughts. Rich
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© Steven Munshower
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